Lamp Dimmer Structure Patents (Class 323/905)
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Patent number: 9741161Abstract: A method, system and medical imaging device include accessing a 3D medical imaging dataset and generating a volume-rendered image from the 3D medical imaging dataset. Generating the volume-rendered image includes calculating a shading for the volume-rendered image based on a first light source, a second light source, and a third light source. The second light source and the third light source are both positioned differently than the first light source. The method, system, and medical imaging device also include displaying the volume-rendered image.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2014Date of Patent: August 22, 2017Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventor: Gerald Schroecker
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Patent number: 8988058Abstract: A two-wire load control device (such as, a dimmer switch) for controlling the amount of power delivered from an AC power source to an electrical load (such as, a high-efficiency lighting load) includes a thyristor coupled between the source and the load, a gate coupling circuit coupled between a first main load terminal and the gate of the thyristor, and a control circuit coupled to a control input of the gate coupling circuit. The control circuit generates a drive voltage for causing the gate coupling circuit to conduct a gate current to thus render the thyristor conductive at a firing time during a half cycle of the AC power source, and to allow the gate coupling circuit to conduct the gate current at any time from the firing time through approximately the remainder of the half cycle, where the gate coupling circuit conducts approximately no net average current to render and maintain the thyristor conductive.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2013Date of Patent: March 24, 2015Assignee: Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.Inventors: Robert C. Newman, Jr., Chris J. Salvestrini, Matthew V. Harte
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Patent number: 8963449Abstract: A light emitting diode (LED) lighting system includes a power factor correction (PFC) controller that determines at least one power factor correction control parameter from phase delays of a phase modulated signal. In at least one embodiment, a peak voltage of the phase modulated signal is a PFC control parameter used by the PFC controller to control power factor correction and generation of a link voltage by a PFC LED driver circuit. The phase delays. are related to a peak voltage of the phase modulated signal. Thus, in at least one embodiment, detecting the phase delay in one or more cycles of the phase modulated signal allows the PFC controller to determine the peak voltage of the phase modulated signal.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2013Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Assignee: Cirrus Logic, Inc.Inventor: John L. Melanson
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Patent number: 8957662Abstract: A two-wire load control device (such as, a dimmer switch) for controlling the amount of power delivered from an AC power source to an electrical load (such as, a high-efficiency lighting load) includes a thyristor coupled between the source and the load, a gate coupling circuit coupled between a first main load terminal and the gate of the thyristor, and a control circuit coupled to a control input of the gate coupling circuit. The control circuit generates a drive voltage for causing the gate coupling circuit to conduct a gate current to thus render the thyristor conductive at a firing time during a half cycle of the AC power source, and to allow the gate coupling circuit to conduct the gate current at any time from the firing time through approximately the remainder of the half cycle, where the gate coupling circuit conducts approximately no net average current to render and maintain the thyristor conductive.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2012Date of Patent: February 17, 2015Assignee: Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.Inventors: Robert C. Newman, Jr., Christopher J. Salvestrini, Matthew V. Harte
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Patent number: 8892913Abstract: A load control device for control of the power delivered from an AC power source to an electrical load comprises a power supply and a microprocessor that is able to operate the load control device in a low-power mode. The load control device may further comprise at least one visual indicator controlled by the microprocessor to provide visual feedback, where the microprocessor illuminates the visual indicator when the load is on and to turns the visual indicator off when the load is off during the low-power mode. The load control device may comprise a communication circuit coupled to the microprocessor for transmitting and/or receiving digital messages the microprocessor cause the communication circuit to draw less current from the power supply during the low-power mode. The microprocessor may operate in the low-power mode if the magnitude of a voltage of the power supply drops below a predetermined threshold.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2012Date of Patent: November 18, 2014Assignee: Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.Inventors: Robert C. Newman, Jr., Christopher J. Salvestrini
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Patent number: 8629660Abstract: A boost regulator is provided that has increased efficiency. The increased efficiency is provided by incorporating a sensing circuit that senses when the current in the boost regulator's inductor is near zero or when the voltage at its switching node is near zero or virtual ground. A switching signal is provided to the boost regulator's switching transistor when the near zero current or voltage is sensed. Switching at the near zero current or voltage moment (the “critical conduction moment”) helps to eliminate or minimize the power loss associated with switching the transistor at a time other than during the critical conduction moment.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2010Date of Patent: January 14, 2014Assignee: Maxim Integrated Products, Inc.Inventor: Mehmet K. Nalbant
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Patent number: 8604645Abstract: A supply arrangement, a supply unit and a method in which a switching element is connected in series to an operating voltage and an electrical load, wherein a supply unit supplies an electronic unit with power independently of the switching state of the switching element.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2007Date of Patent: December 10, 2013Assignee: Enocean GmbHInventor: Holger Alfons Eggert
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Patent number: 8593129Abstract: A switching power supply includes a switch and a controller for dimming control of the switching power supply. The controller includes a phase angle measurement block and a drive logic block. The phase angle measurement block is coupled to receive an input sense signal. The phase angle measurement block generates a phase angle signal representative of a phase angle of an input voltage of the power supply in response to the input sense signal. The drive logic block is coupled to control switching of the switch. The drive logic block controls the switch in a closed loop dimming control when the phase angle is less than or equal to a phase threshold and in a open loop dimming control when the phase angle is greater than the phase threshold.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2012Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Assignee: Power Integrations, Inc.Inventors: Yury Gaknoki, Mingming Mao
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Patent number: 8593842Abstract: A dimming power supply includes a power source, a transformer, a full bridge rectifier and a control switch.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2012Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Assignee: Innovate, LLCInventors: Laurence P. Sadwick, Mohammad M. Mojarradi
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Patent number: 8294372Abstract: An online time dimmer is disclosed, which comprises a base, an electric circuit unit lodged in the base and a top cover joined with the base correspondingly. The electric circuit unit is functionally made up of a dimmer circuit and a time circuit, and structurally comprises a power switch and a time switch, which are activated by a switch button and a time button respectively. When in use, one end of the unit connects electrically to a power supply through electric wires and a plug, while the other end to a lighting load through electric wires. Once depressing the switch button will in turn press the power switch, which activates power-on, power-off and the adjustment of brightness operated on the lighting load through the dimmer circuit. And depressing the time button will in turn press the time switch, which enables the time circuit to operate time setting on the lighting load.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2009Date of Patent: October 23, 2012Assignee: Sun-Lite Sockets Industry, Inc.Inventor: Wen-Ho Yang
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Patent number: 8242766Abstract: A controller for dimming control of a switching power supply includes a phase angle measurement block and a drive logic block. The phase angle measurement block is to be coupled to receive an input sense signal. The phase angle measurement block generates a phase angle signal representative of a phase angle of an input voltage of the power supply in response to the input sense signal. The drive logic block is to be coupled to control switching of a switch included in the power supply. The drive logic block controls the switch in a closed loop dimming control when the phase angle is less than or equal to a phase threshold and in a open loop dimming control when the phase angle is greater than the phase threshold.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2010Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Assignee: Power Integrations, Inc.Inventors: Yury Gaknoki, Mingming Mao
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Patent number: 8040078Abstract: A LED dimming circuit is provided. The LED dimming circuit has an LED driver, an LED dimmer, and at least one LED light source. A resistor is connected between a dimming control output of the LED dimmer and dimming control input of the LED dimmer. The LED dimming circuit may optionally include a fluorescent slide dimmer. The fluorescent slide dimmer may have a first connection to the dimming control input of the LED dimmer and a second connection to a circuit common of the LED dimmer. A method of providing an LED dimming circuit for dimming at least one LED light source using a fluorescent dimmer is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2009Date of Patent: October 18, 2011Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.Inventors: David W. Knoble, Khosrow Jamasbi
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Patent number: 8003904Abstract: A dimmer switch includes a first switch for coupling to a power source, a second switch, a dimmer module, and a main actuator movable between an operational position and a disconnected position. The main actuator includes a first switch actuator and a second switch actuator. The first switch may be a normally-closed air-gap switch including a lever in contact with the first switch actuator. Movement of the main actuator between the operational position and the disconnected position is effective to open the switch. The main actuator is pivotally and slidably coupled to a frame. A coupling between the main actuator and the frame includes a pivot in a pivot holder; a partial cylindrical surface of the pivot is in contact with a surface of the pivot holder which includes a first portion having a partial cylindrical surface and a second portion having a ramp surface.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2007Date of Patent: August 23, 2011Assignee: Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc.Inventor: Yun Wu
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Patent number: 7960963Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing a selected amount of power from a power source to a load produce a pseudo random code sequence of different type bits, in which one type of the different type bits is used to control application of power from the source to the load so that the power applied to the load corresponds to the total of the number of the bits of one type applied to the load in a given time period. A plurality of code sequences is provided, with each corresponding to a different power level, and a sequence can be selected to provide a selected power level to the load.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2008Date of Patent: June 14, 2011Assignee: National Semiconductor CorporationInventor: Richard F. Zarr
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Patent number: 7924584Abstract: A power supply and methods are provided. The power supply includes a bi-forward converter and a feed forward circuit. The bi-forward converter is operable to convert an input voltage into an output voltage. The feed forward circuit is operable to detect a peak voltage associated with the input voltage, and the bi-forward converter is further operable to adjust the output voltage responsive to the peak voltage detected by the feed forward circuit.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2004Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: Marvell International Ltd.Inventors: Hubertus Notohamiprodjo, Liang Chen
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Patent number: 7834560Abstract: A dimming system and method of operating the same are provided. The dimming system includes a first terminal configured to operatively connect to a first conductive line, a second terminal configured to operatively connect to a second conductive line, and a third terminal configured to operatively connect to a third conductive line. The first conductive line is configured to connect to a load, the second conductive line is configured to supply an alternating current, and the third conductive line is configured to connect to a current path. The dimming system further includes a controller operatively connected to at least one of the first, second and third terminals for controlling operation of the dimming system. The first and second terminals are configured for electrically connecting to a primary power supply and the first and third terminals are configured for electrically connecting to a secondary power supply.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2007Date of Patent: November 16, 2010Assignee: Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc.Inventors: Michael Ostrovsky, Parimal R. Patel, Eugene Frid
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Patent number: 7804255Abstract: A dimming system and method of operating the same are provided. The dimming system includes a first terminal configured to operatively connect to a first conductive line, a second terminal configured to operatively connect to a second conductive line, and a third terminal configured to operatively connect to a third conductive line. The first conductive line is configured to connect to a load, the second conductive line is configured to supply an alternating current, and the third conductive line is configured to connect to a current path. The dimming system further includes a controller operatively connected to at least one of the first, second and third terminals for controlling operation of the dimming system. The first and second terminals are configured for electrically connecting to a primary power supply and the first and third terminals are configured for electrically connecting to a secondary power supply.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2007Date of Patent: September 28, 2010Assignee: Leviton Manufacturing Company, Inc.Inventors: Michael Ostrovsky, Parimal R. Patel, Eugene Frid
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Patent number: 7546473Abstract: A power supply for a two-wire load control device supplies power to a microprocessor, which in turn controls the power supply. The power supply comprises an energy storage element, e.g., a capacitor, for producing a DC voltage for powering the microprocessor. The power supply comprises a high impedance circuit for allowing the energy storage element to receive energy at a first rate before the DC voltage is produced and the microprocessor is powered. The power supply further comprises a low-impedance circuit, i.e., a resistor in series electrical connection with a controllably conductive device, for allowing the energy storage element to receive energy at a second rate greater than the first rate. After starting up, the microprocessor is operable to selectively enable and disable the second energy-receiving circuit by rendering the controllably conductive device conductive and non-conductive, respectively.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2006Date of Patent: June 9, 2009Assignee: Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.Inventor: Robert C Newman
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Patent number: 7489499Abstract: A captured offset linear guide system for a lighting control device includes a faceplate having an elongated slot, a knob, an offset member, and a linear potentiometer. The offset member allows the linear potentiometer to be offset from the elongated slot of the faceplate to prevent dirt and dust from collecting on the potentiometer. Also, the offset linear guide system prevents insertion of an object into the internal structure of the lighting control device where it might come into contact with energized electrical components. The faceplate includes two guide rails, which hold the offset member close to the faceplate and allow for easy assembly of the faceplate to the lighting control device. Further, the faceplate includes an alignment rail, which prevents the offset member from rotating and further constrains the offset member to move in a straight line within the slot.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2006Date of Patent: February 10, 2009Assignee: Lutron Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventor: Ryan L Abel
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Patent number: 7479744Abstract: A circuit for controlling the power in a load supplied by an A.C. voltage and directly connected to a first terminal of application of the A.C. voltage, including two isolated-gate bipolar transistors, connected in anti-parallel between a second terminal of application of the A.C. voltage and the load; circuitry for detecting the zero crossing of the A.C. supply voltage in a first direction; circuitry for generating, at each period of the supply voltage, a pulse of predetermined duration for controlling a first one of said transistors, the time of occurrence of the pulse being conditioned by the detection of the zero crossing of the A.C. voltage and by a desired power reference setting a variable delay of occurrence of the pulse with respect to the detected zero crossing; and circuitry for inverting and transferring said pulse to the second transistor.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2007Date of Patent: January 20, 2009Assignee: STMicroelectronics S.A.Inventors: Raynald Achart, Laurent Gonthier
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Patent number: 7441923Abstract: An operating room light fixture with a light fixture housing, in which at least one lighting unit with at least one light source is arranged, with a handle, which is arranged on a side of the light fixture housing facing the operating area, wherein the handle comprises a control element for setting and/or adjusting the luminous intensity of the light source.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2005Date of Patent: October 28, 2008Assignee: Dräger Medical AG & Co. KGaAInventors: Margret Hünerbein, Ryzard Kummerfeld, Georg Schlör, Joachim Schröter, Ingolf Diez
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Patent number: 7401944Abstract: An operating room light fixture having a first lighting unit including a first light source and an external reflector, a second lighting unit including a second light source and an internal reflector, and a control unit. The second lighting unit is positioned in front of the first lighting unit with respect to the direction in which the light emerges from the light fixture. The control unit may be actuated by a rotary element located in a handle of the light fixture. A heat reflection filter may be provided for adjusting the color temperature of the light fixture to a desired value.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2005Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Assignee: Dräger Medical AG & Co. KGaAInventors: Margret Hünerbein, Ryzard Kummerfeld, Georg Schlör, Joachim Schröter, Ingolf Diez
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Patent number: 7388337Abstract: A fluorescent lamp lighting apparatus according to the present invention comprises an initial illuminance correction control circuit which sets a fluorescent lamp to an initial illuminance correction control lighting mode, a switching portion which changes the fluorescent lamp from the initial illuminance correction control lighting mode to an external control dimming mode when a predetermined external dimming signal is detected, and a control portion which gradually dimming so as to achieve a dimming level of a switched mode when switching the initial illuminance correction control lighting mode and the external control dimming mode, and control so as to achieve a dimming level corresponding to a cumulative lighting time of the fluorescent lamp when the changed mode is the initial illuminance correction control lighting mode.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2006Date of Patent: June 17, 2008Assignee: Toshiba Lighting & Technology CorporationInventors: Koji Takahasi, Toshiyuki Hiraoka, Noriyuki Kitamura, Naoko Iwai, Kazuyuki Uratani, Shinji Nogi, Toru Ishikita, Isao Yamazaki
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Patent number: 7371963Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a photovoltaic power generation system which is capable of achieving system linkage of a plurality of solar cell strings having different output voltages to a commercial electric power system with ease, and which enables efficient use of the maximum output electric power. It is a photovoltaic power generation system characterized by disposing voltage regulating means that regulates a DC voltage outputted from non-standard solar cell string between a standard solar cell string and electric power converting means, and regulating an output voltage of the non-standard solar cell string to the side of an output voltage of the standard solar cell string by the use of the voltage regulating means.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2003Date of Patent: May 13, 2008Assignee: Kyocera CorporationInventors: Takashi Suenaga, Taneo Higuchi
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Patent number: 7288902Abstract: A method and system allow a lighting device having light sources with multiple color temperatures to vary a color temperature of the lighting device in response to changing dimming levels. The light sources are non-incandescent light sources, such as light emitting diodes and/or gas-discharge lights. A dimmer circuit provides a dimming signal that indicates a selected dimming level. The lighting device includes a light source driver and a light source driver controller that cooperate to vary drive currents to the light sources in response to the selected dimming level. By varying the drive currents in different relative amounts, the color temperature of the lighting device changes in response to dimming level changes. In at least one embodiment, changes in the color temperature of the lighting device in response to the dimming level changes simulates the color temperature changes of an incandescent light source.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2007Date of Patent: October 30, 2007Assignee: Cirrus Logic, Inc.Inventor: John L. Melanson
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Patent number: 7120035Abstract: An integrated circuit inverter controller that includes at least one input pin that is configured to receive two or more input signals. The input pin may be multiplexed so that the appropriate input signal is directed to appropriate circuitry within the controller to support two or more functions of the controller. Alternatively, the input signals may be present in differing time periods so that a single pin can support two or more functions. Multifunctional or multitasked pins reduce the overall pin count of the inverter controller.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2003Date of Patent: October 10, 2006Assignee: O2Micro International LimitedInventors: Yung-Lin Lin, Da Liu
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Patent number: 7102902Abstract: The AC output from a source is rectified and applied to a resistor/Zener diode circuit connection which determines the magnitude of the rectified voltage applied via a circuit to a first MOSFET device. The inverted output of the first MOSFET device is applied to the gate electrode of a second MOSFET device in a manner such that the second MOSFET device is ON even when the AC output passes through zero. The output of the second MOSFET device is connected to a resistor which determines the magnitude of the load applied to the dimmer.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2005Date of Patent: September 5, 2006Assignee: Ledtronics, Inc.Inventors: Emery Alan Brown, Pervaiz Lodhie
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Patent number: 6982858Abstract: An electronic power-saving power control circuit for connection between a single-phase power supply and a lighting fixture to control the output of power supply to the lighting fixture is disclosed to include a CPU (central processing unit), a power voltage detector, a silicon controlled semiconductor circuit, a current phase detector, a trigger circuit, a resistor, a current detector, and a DC power supply circuit. The electronic power-saving power control circuit saves the consumption of power supply by dropping the voltage without affecting normal working of the lighting fixture at the load and, achieves an overcurrent protection.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2003Date of Patent: January 3, 2006Assignee: Digitek Technology Co., Ltd.Inventor: Te-Fu Shih
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Patent number: 6975078Abstract: A dimming-control lighting apparatus for an incandescent electric lamp with less accompanying color temperature change, using a dimming power source installed in TV studios or theater stages, is disclosed. The voltage of the first filament whose rated voltage is lower than the maximum output voltage of a dimming power source rapidly rises to the sawtooth voltage of the dimming power source, and after the first filament reaches a constant color temperature, the output of the second filament having the same rated voltage as the maximum output voltage of the dimming power source is delayed to thereby light the second filament.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2004Date of Patent: December 13, 2005Assignees: Nippon Hosos Kyokai, Marumo Electric Co., Ltd.Inventors: Naoki Yanai, Saburo Kimura, Hiroshi Kita, Hidemitsu Yamazuka
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Patent number: 6900993Abstract: An integrated circuit inverter controller that includes at least one input pin that is configured to receive two or more input signals. The input pin may be multiplexed so that the appropriate input signal is directed to appropriate circuitry within the controller to support two or more functions of the controller. Alternatively, the input signals may be present in differing time periods so that a single pin can support two or more functions. Multifunctional or multitasked pins reduce the overall pin count of the inverter controller.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2003Date of Patent: May 31, 2005Assignee: O2Micro International LimitedInventors: Yung-Lin Lin, Da Liu
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Patent number: 6856519Abstract: An integrated circuit inverter controller that includes at least one input pin that is configured to receive two or more input signals. The input pin may be multiplexed so that the appropriate input signal is directed to appropriate circuitry within the controller to support two or more functions of the controller. Alternatively, the input signals may be present in differing time periods so that a single pin can support two or more functions. Multifunctional or multitasked pins reduce the overall pin count of the inverter controller.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2002Date of Patent: February 15, 2005Assignee: O2Micro International LimitedInventors: Yung-Lin Lin, Da Liu
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Patent number: 6609804Abstract: A low voltage ceiling or wall mounted light fixture for residential and commercial lighting includes a plurality of high lumen white LED lights incorporated within the fixtures, a light color diffusion panel and a household current to low voltage DC converter within the fixture to convert the AC current to low voltage DC current, reducing the power required for illumination without replacement of the LED lights.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2001Date of Patent: August 26, 2003Inventors: Steven T. Nolan, Donald R. Hebert
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Patent number: 6469457Abstract: Improvements to lighting systems, especially for entertainment and architectural applications are disclosed, including apparatus that permit a user to readily field-configure power distribution to branch circuits to be dimmed or un-dimmed, single- or multi-phase, as required; communication of data over existing power wiring by variations in output of dimmers; and improved methods for generating, managing, and distributing data specifying the physical and electrical configurations of a lighting system.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2001Date of Patent: October 22, 2002Inventor: Michael Callahan
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Patent number: 6459250Abstract: A circuit board provides a first elevation adapted for printing and bonding of conductor and resistor traces and monolithic ceramic capacitors, and provides through holes adapted for locating conductors. A second elevation is adapted for location and containment of a semiconductor quadrac. A third elevation is adapted for location and containment of a circuit board which is selectively adjustable through an R-C network coupled between the semiconductor quadrac and an input power source. An electric phase control uses mechanical movement for actuation. Provision is provided for mounting the phase control mechanism and the circuit so as to be manually accessed. A planar switch cover plate is adapted for sliding engagement, in parallel juxtaposition, with the mounting devices, the switch cover plate further adapted for engagement with the phase control mechanism for actuation through sliding engagement.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2001Date of Patent: October 1, 2002Inventor: Ralph K. Davis
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Patent number: 6400098Abstract: A dimmer for controlling AC power to a lighting load provides a leading power factor by initiating conduction through an electronic switch at each zero crossing of the line current. The dimmer delivers current to the lighting load in a sequence of pulses where each pulse corresponds to a portion of one AC half wave. A variable resistance that alters a voltage signal delivered to an integrated circuit permits the user to determine the duration of each pulse and thus vary the power delivered to the lighting load. The dimmer is provided with over current protection.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2001Date of Patent: June 4, 2002Assignee: Sonlex LimitedInventor: King Kwok Pun
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Patent number: 6356038Abstract: An AC controller which provides programmable switching of AC power flow, together with producing a source of DC power for operating the AC controller. The AC controller is connected in series with only one side of the AC power source and the AC load. The AC controller utilizes a thyristor for AC power control switching. During the operation, the AC controller steals a small portion of each half-cycle of the AC power to provide DC power to the AC controller. The AC controller enables the flow of AC current by providing a gate current pulse at any predetermined time during the half cycle. Once the thyristor is ON, the AC current flows through the thyristor until the AC cycle is at or near zero. To provide an OFF state, the AC controller does not provide a gate current pulse. The AC controller uses an microcontroller for the programmable capability.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2000Date of Patent: March 12, 2002Inventor: Richard A. Bishel
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Patent number: 6211627Abstract: Improvements to lighting systems, especially for entertainment and architectural applications are disclosed, including apparatus that permit a user to readily field-configure power distribution to branch circuits to be dimmed or un-dimmed, single- or multi-phase, as required; communication of data over existing power wiring by variations in output of dimmers; and improved methods for generating, managing, and distributing data specifying the physical and electrical configurations of a lighting system.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 1999Date of Patent: April 3, 2001Inventor: Michael Callahan
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Patent number: 6144539Abstract: An arrangement for protecting low-voltage control circuitry from externally applied high voltages comprises a voltage source (30) and a current-sourcing circuit (40). Current-sourcing circuit (40) provides current to an external controller (18) in a normal manner when an external source of high voltage is not applied to the output connections (42,44), protects itself (40) and the voltage source (30) from damage when an external source of high voltage is applied to the output connections (42,44), and provides current to the external controller (18) in a normal manner after the external source of high voltage is subsequently removed from the output connections (42,44). The arrangement may be employed as the dimming interface circuit (900) of an electronic dimming ballast (60) for gas discharge lamps to protect ballast circuitry from damage due to wiring errors during installation.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 1999Date of Patent: November 7, 2000Assignee: Osram Sylvania Inc.Inventors: John G. Konopka, Sameer Sodhi
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Patent number: 6144568Abstract: The invention relates to a circuit arrangement for operating electrical lamps which encompasses an invertor (WR) with oscillation build-up circuit (trigger generator), comprising diac (DC1) and drive circuit. The drive circuit comprises a high-pass filter, in particular an RC high-pass filter (R1, C1). As a result, the trigger initiation is shifted closer to the zero crossing of the supply voltage. This means, in turn, that a more sinusoidal power supply current consumption with a smaller proportion of harmonics is obtained. In addition, more stable lamp operation is achieved in combination with power supply segment control dimmers.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 1999Date of Patent: November 7, 2000Assignee: Patent-Treuhand-Gesellschaft fuer elektrische Gluehlampen mbHInventors: Felix Franck, Theodor Kiermeier
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Patent number: 6138241Abstract: An apparatus for and method of inhibiting and overriding the normal operating mode of one or more input devices connected to a communications network. The present invention functions within an electrical network made up of a plurality of input devices wherein a group of input devices is capable of commanding an electrical control device to apply and remove electrical power from an electrical load connected thereto. The input devices or nodes communicate with the electrical control device over a communications network. When one of the input devices is turned off, the normal operating mode of all the other input sensors is inhibited. The electrical control device remains inhibited until all the input devices are no longer in the off position. Thus, electrical power to the load controlled by the electrical control device remains disconnected until all input devices are in the on position. Local and remote signaling, control and indication diagnostic and monitoring functions are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 1998Date of Patent: October 24, 2000Assignee: Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc.Inventors: David P. Eckel, Gaetano Bonasia
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Patent number: 6107787Abstract: Dashboard dimmer light circuit for a vehicle, for example a car or truck. A power supply 10 provides a step-function voltage signal to an op-amp oscillator circuit 20 which provides a triangular voltage oscillation signal to an op-amp level comparator 40 which, in turn, compares the triangular voltage oscillation signal to a voltage reference for providing a pulse-width-modulated (PWM) voltage signal to a power FET driver 70 which, in turn, responds to the pulse-width-modulated voltage signal by providing a current signal to an automobile dashboard dimmer light 80. Features of the invention include a) a dashboard dimmer light having a stable oscillator frequency, b) PWM duty cycle stability in a dashboard dimmer light, c) efficient accomplishment of the invention's oscillator and level comparator functions within a single IC, d) reduction of electromagnetic interference which might otherwise intefere with other electronic equipment in the dashboard.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 1998Date of Patent: August 22, 2000Assignee: Methode Electronics, Inc.Inventor: Thomas J. Wand
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Patent number: 6091238Abstract: The present invention incorporates a system for varying the output signal and regulating the power consumed by an electrical device. It achieves its purpose by moving a magnet relative to a Hall effect sensor which is responsive to an intersecting magnetic field. The Hall effect sensor creates an electrical output signal which determines the input signal of an output element of the device. The electrical Hall effect sensor signal thereby controls the output signal emitted by the electrical output element. The magnet is moved using a movable element. Since the location and movement of the magnet regulates the Hall effect sensor output signal, the output signal of the electrical device as well as its rate of change are regulated using the movable element. In order to conserve power the Hall effect sensor element is usually not energized when the device is in the "off" mode.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 1997Date of Patent: July 18, 2000Assignee: Kevin McDermottInventor: Damien McDermott
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Patent number: 6072304Abstract: An improved trigger circuitry for a high side thyristor application having a thyristor connected to an A/C line, a capacitor connected across the A/C line to A/C neutral through impedance, an electronic switch connected from the thyristor to the junction of the capacitor and associate impedance. During the positive portion of the A/C cycle, the thyristor is triggered in quadrant III via the switch and the capacitor is charged. During the negative portion of the A/C cycle, the discharge of the capacitor triggers quadrant II of the thyristor via the switch.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 1999Date of Patent: June 6, 2000Assignee: Regent Lighting CorporationInventor: Jeff Duve
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Patent number: 6020659Abstract: The present invention relates to an electronic switch system for controlling AC power to a load. The switch has ON, OFF and RAMP down modes that can be selected by means of momentary touch switches. When put into the RAMP down mode, the power to the load decreases slowly at a gradual continuous uninterrupted predetermined rate. This switch system has particular utility in brightness control of lamps. It has been found that the use of a lamp controlled by an electronic switch of the present invention often will induce sleep for people that have difficulty going to sleep, particularly young children and older persons. Thus the electronic switch system and devices embodying this system are particularly useful in a method to induce sleep.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 1996Date of Patent: February 1, 2000Assignee: Primed Products Inc.Inventors: Jonathan Crowther, Earl T. Jackson
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Patent number: 6005308Abstract: An electrical switch and dimmer device for controlling current applied to a load comprises a bezel assembly (16) which includes a bezel housing (17), a switch actuator (18) and a dimmer actuator (19). The bezel housing supports both switch and dimmer actuators for respective movement between first and second positions, whereby the on/off state of an electrical switch adapted to apply power to an electrical load (e.g. an electric light or fan) is controllable, as is the level of power applied to the load by the switch. The bezel housing and the switch/dimmer actuators which it supports comprise a self-contained assembly which can be releasably connected to a yoke member (20) on which an electrical switch and dimmer circuitry are mounted.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 1993Date of Patent: December 21, 1999Assignee: Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.Inventors: Gary William Bryde, James Edgar Swain, John Roderick Woodman, Mark Andrew Cieri
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Patent number: 5932973Abstract: An incandescent lamp has an attachment for connection to a two-wire electrical power line and a bulb containing a radiating element. At least two filaments are housed in the bulb and constitute the radiating element, and circuitry has an input connected to the electrical power line and an output connected to filaments. When a selection signal indicating the desired brightness is passed to circuitry, preferably along the electrical power line, and acts in such a way that circuitry selectively provides a feed to filaments on the basis of the selection signal, a change in brightness is obtained without deterioration of the color characteristics because the filaments operate under their rated operating conditions. The change in brightness will not be continuous, but discrete, but is more than acceptable for domestic requirements even with a small number of filaments.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 1996Date of Patent: August 3, 1999Assignee: STMicroelectronics, S.r.l.Inventor: Massimo Cecchetti
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Patent number: 5821703Abstract: A lighting system made up of a plurality of light fixtures which each produce a light beam, in which each of a plurality of varying devices, each having an input and an output, and each capable of varying at least one parameter of the light beam from at least one of the light fixtures, is responsive to a first value received at the input, where the first value corresponds to the desired adjustment of a parameter of the light beam. Each of the varying devices is also capable of generating a second value which represents status information, and transmitting the second value via the output. A controller produces the first value and sends it to an output which is coupled to the input of the varying device. A monitoring device has an input and is separate from the controller, and its input is coupled to the output of the varying device.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 1997Date of Patent: October 13, 1998Inventors: Michael Callahan, John K. Chester, Robert M. Goddard
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Patent number: 5811963Abstract: A line powered supply for a wall mounted lighting load control system includes a power MOSFET in series with a load control relay and a second MOSFET in parallel with the load control relay. When the lighting load is off, the MOSFET in parallel with the load relay is selectively opened to charge a capacitor feeding a regulator used to provide control system power. When the lights are on, the capacitor provides control system power. The MOSFET in series with the load control relay is open circuited to provide AC to recharge the capacitor whenever the regulator drop out voltage is reached. The MOSFET conducts for all but a very small portion of the AC cycle so that substantially all the AC power is applied to the lighting load. A second AC to DC power converter uses similar MOSFET switching to use partial AC voltage cycles to charge a capacitor and provide low voltage DC power from higher AC voltages.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 1997Date of Patent: September 22, 1998Assignee: Novitas IncorporatedInventor: Brian E. Elwell
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Patent number: 5789908Abstract: A dimmer rack utilizes removable connector modules for interfacing the rack to various types of standard electrical connectors in pre-existing lighting systems. The dinner rack includes a front bay for receiving dimmer modules, a rear bay for receiving the connector modules, and a patch panel for routing electrical power from the dimmer modules to the connector modules. Each connector module includes a rear panel having a connector for connecting the module to the patch panel and a front panel having a standard electrical connector for connecting the module to a lighting system. The connector modules can be fabricated with various types of standard electrical connectors.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: NSI CorporationInventor: Craig LeVasseur
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Patent number: 5751116Abstract: An apparatus for retrofitting an HID light fixture is described in several embodiments. The apparatus is coupled in series with the secondary winding and the HID lamp of the HID light fixture. A first retrofit capacitor replaces the light fixture capacitor of the HID light fixture. A switching device is coupled in series with a second retrofit capacitor and couples the first and second retrofit capacitors in parallel in response to a normal power mode control input so that the HID lamp provides normal intensity lighting at normal power. The switching device uncouples the first and second retrofit capacitors from being in parallel in response to a low power mode control input so that the HID lamp provides low intensity lighting at low power.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 1995Date of Patent: May 12, 1998Inventors: Larry A. Thomas, Kelly B. McMahon