Having A Lamp Or Light Indicator Patents (Class 324/556)
  • Patent number: 6940416
    Abstract: This invention relates to a limited range low voltage testing, regulating, and indicating device comprising a detector and low voltage measurer of magnitude in a switch-regulated power supply circuit wherein indicator LEDs are operated directly from a power supply wherein continually increasing current draw provided by shunt switching operates to cause the first display LEDs to “fade” in an overlapping pattern of activation, in and out with slight voltage changes. Increased voltage causes a second LED to turn on. Further increased voltage causes the second LED to turn off and a third LED to turn on. Shunt and series connected voltage regulators selectively exert control over the LEDs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: Varon Lighting, Inc.
    Inventors: James Hudson, Thomas J. Mayer
  • Patent number: 6888341
    Abstract: A handheld dual voltage circuit tester, method and electronic circuit that quickly allows a technician to determine whether an automotive electrical system runs on a 12-14 volt circuit or 36-42 volt circuit. The tester may be used for automobiles having a single voltage electrical system, or automobiles with distinct electrical systems operating on one of a 12-14 volts circuit or a 36-42 volt circuit. The tester includes a screwdriver-type elongated handle and probe tip. The tester also includes electronic circuitry disposed within its handle, heat shrink tubing, a conductive spring assembly, a strain relief, a retractable coil cord, a ground clip and insulation that encloses the ground clip. The tester also includes electronic circuitry that emits light of a first color when a 12-14 volt circuit is sensed, and light of a second color when a 36-42 volt circuit is sensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignee: Snap-On Incorporated
    Inventors: Robert D. Johnson, Mark R. Schaefer, Daniel Mieczkowski
  • Publication number: 20040246003
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an electric circuit test device for testing an electric circuit. The test device is insertable into a receptacle. The receptacle includes electrical terminals coupled to the electrical circuit. The device includes a housing characterized by a longitudinal axis. A plug blade assembly is disposed within the housing and configured to mate with the electrical terminals. Electrical continuity is established between the plug blade assembly and the electric circuit. A fault detection circuit is coupled to the plug blade assembly and disposed within the housing. The fault detection circuit is configured to detect a circuit status condition in the electrical circuit. A circuit status indicator assembly is coupled to the fault detection circuit and disposed normal thereto. The circuit status indicator assembly includes semiconductor light indicators that are connected substantially normal to the circuit status indicator assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2003
    Publication date: December 9, 2004
    Inventors: Michael Bryndzia, Kent Morgan
  • Patent number: 6797924
    Abstract: The present invention provides a soldering iron with a graphite tip having two separate halves that are electrically isolated from one another. The tip halves are each electrically connected to the opposite sides of an electrical power source. When both halves of the tip are applied to an electrically conductive material, such as the material to be soldered, an electrical circuit between the tip halves and electrical power source is completed. The halves are of the tip are constructed from material semi-conductive electrically and having high thermal conductivity. Therefore, the tip can reach operating temperatures quickly. When the tip is removed from the joint, the electrical circuit is broken and the tip material may quickly cool to a temperature safe for human contact. Because electricity is only able to flow when the two pieces of the tip are electrically connected, no separate switch is required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Inventors: Dragos Axinte, Grigore Axinte
  • Patent number: 6731217
    Abstract: An electrical circuit tester for allowing a user to efficiently test electrical fixtures and switches. The electrical circuit tester includes a housing that has a plurality of prongs that extend from the housing. The prongs are adapted for engaging an electrical outlet of a building. A plurality of lights is coupled to the housing. The lights are lit in a pattern indicating a state of the electrical outlet. A speaker is coupled to the housing. The speaker is for creating an audible tone when the prongs engage the electrical outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Inventor: Michael A. Warner
  • Patent number: 6710602
    Abstract: A repair device for fixing a malfunctioning shunt across a failed filament in a light bulb in a group of series-connected miniature decorative bulbs includes a high-voltage pulse generator producing one or more pulses of a magnitude greater than the standard AC power line voltage. A connector receives the pulses from the pulse generator and supplies them to the group of series-connected miniature decorative bulbs. The pulse generator may be a piezoelectric pulse generator, a battery-powered electronic pulse generator, and/or an AC-powered electrical pulse generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Integrated Power Compenents, Inc.
    Inventor: W. Richard Frederick
  • Patent number: 6700386
    Abstract: If there is an error in the feeding system and the error condition allows the motor vehicle to run, the power to electric load systems having a low priority is cut off. If the error condition does not allow the motor vehicle to run, the power to all electric loads is cut off. If there is an error in an electric load system having a high priority, the power to all electric loads is cut off. If there is an error in an electric load system having a low priority, the power to this electric load is cut off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventor: Tsuneyuki Egami
  • Patent number: 6693438
    Abstract: Arcing faults in an electric power system are detected by sensors powered by the light generated by the arcing even in the presence of background light. The sensors have one or more first photovoltaic cells energized by light passed through a first filter having a passband which includes a characteristic wavelength of the arcing material to generate a sensed light electrical signal. One or more second photovoltaic cells are energized by light filtered by a second filter having a passband not including the characteristic wavelength to generate a background light electrical signal. These two electrical signals are applied in opposition to an LED which is turned on when arcing is present. The light signal from the LED is transmitted through an optic fiber to a photoelectric circuit, which generates an arcing signal when energized. The LED may be biased toward the on condition by unfiltered additional photovoltaic cells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: John Joseph Shea
  • Patent number: 6603302
    Abstract: A circuit tester (1) for testing circuit integrity in a series-wired string of Christmas fairy lights powered by domestic mains electricity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Inventor: Frank Joseph Prineppi
  • Patent number: 6600324
    Abstract: LED lamp circuitry that emulates an incandescent lamp's behaviour upon remote verification of the LED lamp. The invention presents a fuse blow-out circuit and a cold filament detection circuit permitting the use of LED lamps in applications, such as railway signal light applications, where there is a need for remote monitoring of the lamps, while keeping the advantageous features of lower power consumption and longer life. The invention also provides a control circuit for enabling/disabling the power supply to LED lamps in relation to the level of the line voltage. The advantage of this embodiment is to avoid unwanted functioning of the LED lamp caused by interference from surrounding electrical cables.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Assignee: Gelcore, LLC
    Inventor: Nicolas St-Germain
  • Patent number: 6593758
    Abstract: A built-in test system for aircraft indication switches comprises a plurality of aircraft indication switches and a first resistor adding network having input resistors individually connected to first contacts of different ones of the indication switches. The test system further includes a second resistor adding network having input resistors individually connected to second contacts of different ones of the indication switches. Output circuitry is provided for coupling outputs of the first and second resistor adding networks to an electronic control unit for the aircraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Mulera, Robinson David
  • Patent number: 6587050
    Abstract: A self timing test circuit switch powered by the same conductor as used to carry data may be used in vehicles where it is desirable to test and confirm the continuity of a critical circuit by illuminating for a brief period of time an indicator lamp after power-up of the vehicle. The switch may be used in sensor circuits where the sensor is a normally open switch and the normally open configuration can not otherwise be distinguished from an open circuit due to a wiring fault or a burned out bulb. Typical applications include checking the continuity of leads leading to metallic chip sensors in the engine and drive train oil or hydraulic fluid of aircraft engines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Allan B. Owen
  • Patent number: 6480001
    Abstract: A repair device for fixing a malfunctioning shunt across a failed filament in a light bulb in a group of series-connected miniature decorative bulbs includes a piezoelectric pulse generator producing one or more pulses of a magnitude greater than the standard AC power line voltage. A connector receives the pulses from the pulse generator and supplies them to the group of series-connected miniature decorative bulbs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Assignee: Integrated Power Components, Inc.
    Inventor: W. Richard Frederick
  • Patent number: 6456091
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method using a power line conditioner having a conventional grounded plug disposed at one end of a short three-wire cord and a housing disposed at the opposite end for providing surge protection, voltage and current amplitude monitoring and indication, as well as visual indication of other singular conditions such as “power on,” “adequate ground,” etc., and outlets for receiving the connecting cord plugs of the electronic equipment to be protected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Assignee: Monster Cable Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Kendrew Lee, Noel Lee
  • Patent number: 6448779
    Abstract: A wiring test assembly for validating and troubleshooting electrical problems with vehicle wiring assemblies for trailers. The wiring test assembly includes a housing with a bottom portion hingedly coupled to a top portion, a plurality of indicator lamps coupled to an exterior surface of the housing, and a wiring harness coupled to the plurality of indicator lamps and adapted for coupling to a trailer wiring connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Inventors: Marty D. Beaver, Roger P. Pruitt
  • Publication number: 20020109509
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a modular, portable device (1) to measure or test components in optical networks. It contains a base module (2) with base electronics, which features controls and a display device on the front; at least one function module (5, 6), which is attached by means of a mechanical interface to the outside of the back (4) of the base module (2), and contains a functional unit with measurement or test electronics, which work together with the base electronics through a functional interface, wherein the function module (5, 6) is detachably joined to the base module (2) and, depending on the application, may be replaced with another function module (5, 6) with another functional unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2002
    Publication date: August 15, 2002
    Applicant: Agilent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Jochen Ziegler, Ralf Haefner, Alf Clement
  • Publication number: 20020109508
    Abstract: A test pen for lamp strings, comprising a main body formed from an upper and a lower housing and having therein an electric circuit board, a end cap is fit over one end of the main body, the test pen thus is adapted to be clamped on a suit of one's clothes. The upper housing is provided in a plurality of windows thereon in an exposing way with a control switch, a first and a second testing contact group for a fuse and a miniature lamp bulb respectively, and a testing contact piece provided on an end in opposition to the end cap for testing electric current on conductors. The control switch controls a display light to show normality of test members, the electric circuit board is provided with an illuminating switch to be controlled by an exposed illuminating push button to control lightening or turning off of said display light. The testing contact piece can be used as a test device for common lamp bulbs and special miniature lamp bulbs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2001
    Publication date: August 15, 2002
    Applicant: Shining Blick Enterprises Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Peter K. H. Huang
  • Patent number: 6433530
    Abstract: A circuit testing device includes a handle with a hollow interior, a conductive probe projecting from one end and a removable cap with a wire and clamp projecting from the opposite end A subassembly retained within a counterbore in the handle includes a polarity sensitive buzzer and light in a parallel circuit configuration whereby the device is useful for determining polarity, circuit continuity, and battery drain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Assignee: Lisle Corporation
    Inventor: James L. Pool
  • Publication number: 20020084908
    Abstract: A method and system for sampling data signals between electronic components are provided. The invention comprises using a straight feed-through connector to connect electronic components and attaching one end of a flexible circuit to the pins of the feed-through connector. The other end of the flexible circuit is attached to a display, such as a LED. The display constitutes a field replaceable unit (FRU), which allows a malfunctioning display (i.e. LED) to be replaced without having to remove other electronic components. The present invention can be used for the detection of fault signals, status, idle signals, error checking, and introduction of a signal analyzer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2000
    Publication date: July 4, 2002
    Inventors: Leslie Los, Eric Grant Pavol, David M. Cravens
  • Publication number: 20020075011
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a system for collecting information on the operating state from several devices connected in parallel to the same electric circuit, e.g. from safety lights connected to the same array of safety lights, each of the devices being provided with members for receiving an enquiry about the operating state of the device via the electric circuit from a testing unit and for sending a message indicating the information on the operating state to the testing unit via the electric circuit in response to the enquiry sent from the testing unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventors: Markku Kauko, Heikki Pienisaari
  • Patent number: 6377054
    Abstract: A test device is described for testing an electromagnetic quantity, such as a voltage or a magnetic field. The test device includes a housing, a sensor arranged in the housing and sensing the electromagnetic quantity, a processing circuit for processing to signals received from the sensor, display elements for displaying the signals processed by the processing unit, a galvanic element for supplying power to the test device, an illuminator for illuminating an area to be tested, and a switch for activating the illuminator. The test device has a small footprint and does not require an external light source even under difficult lighting conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Assignee: Ch. Beha GmbH
    Inventor: Christian Beha
  • Patent number: 6356084
    Abstract: A cable tester is provided having a receive unit comprising a cylindrical housing with open ends, a connector which is attached to one open end, and a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LED's) which are mounted within the other end and are electrically connected to the connector. The connector is attached to the end of a cable to be tested. For cables having phantom power, the phantom power energizes the connector and LED's, and the LED's illuminate in a predetermined manner according to the operating condition of the cable. Utilizing the phantom power, the tester is able to indicate whether the cable being tested is functional and, if not, what specifically is wrong with the audio cable, even when only one end of the cable is accessible. In the event the cable does not have phantom power, and provided the other end is also accessible, the tester is further provided with a send unit having a voltage source which is connected to the other end of the cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Inventor: David R. Levine
  • Publication number: 20020021132
    Abstract: A continuity tester for testing continuity of long electrical lines having two units with one unit located at each end of the line to be tested. A battery is provided with each unit. A ground lead is provided with each unit for connecting the battery through a buzzer to ground. Further, a probe lead is provided for connecting the battery to one end of the line to be tested. The first unit uses the battery with one polarity and the second unit uses the battery with a reversed polarity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2001
    Publication date: February 21, 2002
    Inventor: Roger D. Halden
  • Patent number: 6323657
    Abstract: A conductor tester including two contour-identical parts of a main unit and a remote unit is used to test and indicate present condition of conductors. Both the main and the remote units are formed at two ends with high and low raised portions that are provided with fastening means for the two units to detachably connect to each other to form a compact unit. The high and low raised portions are provided at side walls with notches that are electrically connected to internal circuits of the main and the remote units, and at inner walls between the high and low raised portions with light-emitting diodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Assignee: Dintek Electric Limited
    Inventor: Chen-Tsai Chang
  • Patent number: 6323656
    Abstract: A circuit includes a plurality of inexpensive resistors connected at one end to the open collector outputs of an output array of NPN output transistors which are connected to a wiring harness or the like for selectively powering a preselected load. The opposite ends of the resistors are connected to the base of an NPN sense transistor. The output NPN transistors, when in the on condition, are biased well into saturation for normal loads and therefore provide a very low Vce (sat) when properly connected through the harness to the intended load. In the off condition, the output NPN transistors look essentially like an open circuit. Vce (sat) is lower than the base turn-on voltage of the NPN sense transistor which has a grounded emitter. The collector of the NPN sense transistor is connected to a source of voltage through a pull-up resistor and to an input of the microprocessor which controls the signals to the output array transistors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventor: Jim Milton Shoemaker
  • Patent number: 6297646
    Abstract: A tester includes a housing containing a passive test circuit including a plurality of LEDs respectively connected to terminals of a multi-terminal connector jack on the housing for connecting the tester, by means of an associated cable harness, between a keyswitch module and other electronic circuits on an associated vehicle to be tested. Different harnesses may be provided, tailored to different vehicles. The test circuit is powered by a battery on board the vehicle and includes indicators dedicated to checking to see if the battery is connected properly and if an associated battery charging circuit on the vehicle is operating properly. The remaining indicators check different circuits, depending upon the particular vehicle being tested. The test circuit includes override switches associated with certain ones of the indicators and a test switch for simultaneously energizing all of the indicators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2001
    Assignee: Snap-on Tools Company
    Inventors: Curt W. Lang, Mark A. Glade
  • Patent number: 6281686
    Abstract: Low-cost, miniature, noninvasive power and continuity testing tools for diagnosing and troubleshooting electrical and electronic systems. The tools may be used to diagnose the condition of electrical equipment such as power cords, ignition wires, and ignition systems. Certain tools do not require a power source to operate, while others are battery powered. One tool comprises a liquid crystal display and an antenna connected a LCD element of the display. RF energy radiated by a tested circuit is sensed by the antenna and is coupled to the LCD element which causes the element to emit light. Another tool comprises a battery, a light emitting diode, and a semiconductor integrated circuit switch. The light emitting diode and integrated circuit switch are coupled in series with the battery. The integrated circuit switch is closed when it is in the presence of RF energy, which completes the circuit and turns on the light emitting diode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Inventor: Arnold Hawkins, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6262654
    Abstract: Device for identifying multiple two-conductor alarm wires originating from a common location but terminating at individual remote locations. This device is utilized at the common location by connecting a plurality of test leads and common leads to wires to be identified. User then visits the remote locations where alarm wires connected to test leads and common leads are suspected to terminate. Device emits frequency pulses along connected wires. Using an inductance amplifier probe user can locate and verify that the wire at the remote location is indeed connected to the device. If necessary the user can find the wire it buried within the wall and when found, strip back insulation of the same terminating end of alarm wire and momentarily join the two conductors together. The result is a number of audible beeps sounding from a piezoelectric transducer from the device letting user, who is at the remote location, know which test lead is connected to the wires that were momentarily joined together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Inventor: Jimmie Lee Vernon Judd
  • Patent number: 6259257
    Abstract: Nonintrusive tools for testing power and continuity of AC circuits and wiring. Each tool has a conductive probe extending therefrom that is coupled to a positive terminal of power source or is electromagnetically coupled to a coupling wire that is coupled to the power source. A switching/amplifying device is coupled in series with an indicator between terminals of the power source. A contact is coupled to a switching terminal of the switching/amplifying device that is used to operate the tool when touched by a user. An external coupling device having two electrically isolated wires that are twisted around each other to provide electromagnetic coupling therebetween may be employed when the coupling wire is not used. Physical touching of the contact by the user activates the tool. Once the user activates the tool, the probe may used to directly contact “hot” AC terminals or contact a gel placed on unexposed wires to enhance operation of the tool to determine the presence of power or continuity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Inventor: Arnold Hawkins, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6259243
    Abstract: The method of this invention provides a means for altering commonly available inductive voltage detector instruments into dual sensitivity test instruments. By shielding the sensor probe with a metallic material, the probe is made to be unresponsive to energized conductors in near proximity when the shield is grounded by finger contact. A single probe window is provided so that when grounded, the instrument will respond to an energized conductor in only the probe window area allowing testing of single conductors in wire bundles. When ungrounded by the electrician's finger, the instrument reverts to normal sensitivity. Provision is made for safety by isolating the metallic shield from contact with energized conductors. The method may be employed by means of a demountable accessory or incorporated into the test instrument during manufacture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Inventor: Lynn C. Lundquist
  • Patent number: 6255829
    Abstract: The device may be used to, for example, function test sensors in high voltage plants and signal boxes. The device makes it possible to function test sensors in high voltage plants, independent of where the sensors are located. The elongated device has one end that is provided with an insulated handle part and a flexible component that has a light generating part at an outer end thereof. The light generating part emits a light that is similar to the light of an electric arc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2001
    Assignee: Elkonsulten AB
    Inventor: Mats Eriksson
  • Patent number: 6222374
    Abstract: A circuit includes a plurality of inexpensive resistors connected at one end to the open collector outputs of an output array of NPN output transistors which are connected to a wiring harness or the like for selectively powering a preselected load. The opposite ends of the resistors are connected to the base of an NPN sense transistor. The output NPN transistors, when in the on condition, are biased well into saturation for normal loads and therefore provide a very low Vce (sat) when properly connected through the harness to the intended load. In the off condition, the output NPN transistors look essentially like an open circuit. Vce (sat) is lower than the base turn-on voltage of the NPN sense transistor which has a grounded emitter. The collector of the NPN sense transistor is connected to a source of voltage through a pull-up resistor and to an input of the microprocessor which controls the signals to the output array transistors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventor: Jim Milton Shoemaker
  • Patent number: 6219039
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for testing the video subsystem of a PC in a manufacturing environment. Hsync and Vsync signals from a VGA connector of the PC are input to first and second trigger inputs, respectively, of a monostable multivibrator (“MM”) of the test device to drive respective outputs thereof. In particular, the presence of Hsync at the first trigger input triggers the MM to output a positive pulse at a first output thereof; similarly, the presence of Vsync at the second trigger input triggers the MM to output a positive pulse at a second output thereof. Each of the first and second outputs is used to drive an LED, such that the presence of Hsync and/or Vsync results in the illumination of a corresponding LED.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Assignee: Dell USA, L.P.
    Inventors: Luke L. Chang, Collin Cooke
  • Patent number: 6176358
    Abstract: A cable rewinding device comprises a rewinding box, a detector provided on a side of the rewinding box received in the rewinding box in a universal joint manner in a stored position having a ball member, a body including a detecting circuit having a circuit board, a plurality of lights, and a plurality of cords, and a head portion extended outwardly from the body having first spaced grooves and second spaced grooves, in which the cords are in an electrical communication with the first and the second spaced grooves such that an electrical status such as open circuit, error in connection, or over current of a cable having a plug is obtained through the lights when the plug is inserted into the first and the second spaced grooves. With this device, repairing in time, preventing error in connection, and avoiding damage to the electrical equipment are realized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2001
    Inventor: Liao Sheng Hsin
  • Patent number: 6172508
    Abstract: A new and improved system for testing tractor and trailer light systems interconnected by a cable wherein the trailer has a gladhand. The system includes a housing having a front control panel, a pair of battery terminals connected to said housing for connecting it to a battery and a cable connected to the housing having a connector which can be connected to an electrical receptacle of a trailer. Further, a plurality of switches are connected to the battery and the connector for testing various electrical circuits in the trailer. Additionally, a support rod is provided for engaging a convention glad hand thereby supporting the device in a hands free manner when in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Inventor: Philip J. Nutt
  • Patent number: 6151560
    Abstract: An open circuit failure monitoring apparatus for controlled electrical resistance heaters is disclosed. The heater failure monitoring apparatus allows controlled electrical resistance heaters to be continuously monitored for open circuit failures without applying an operational current flow through the heater, regardless of the operational status of the heater and without significant power consumption during periods when the heater is not operated. The failure monitoring apparatus includes a reactive current limiting element, such as a capacitor, and a current monitoring circuit. The capacitor is connected in parallel with the contact switch used to control line voltage applied to the resistive load. The reactance of the capacitor provides a small but continuous test current capable of being detected by the current sensing component, but not large enough to consume significant power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Inventor: Thaddeus M. Jones
  • Patent number: 6147617
    Abstract: The present invention is to provide an apparatus for detecting errors due to cutoff of a unit pixel and short between the unit pixel and the ground voltage level in a lighting-off state, and also a method for checking in a real time whether information data outputted from a remote host computer is normally represented on a display and detecting all the errors due to cutoff of a unit pixel, short between a unit pixel and the ground voltage level, and short between unit pixels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Assignee: Bong Oh Electronics Ind. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chul Yong Kim
  • Patent number: 6100679
    Abstract: A tool for indicating the presence of potentially dangerous voltages to the user includes circuitry for detecting the presence of an AC voltage on a blade or other operative portion of the tool, circuitry for filtering and processing the detected AC voltage, and a display for indicating the detected AC voltage to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: Tasco, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas A. McCasland
  • Patent number: 6075448
    Abstract: This invention solves the problem of differentiating between a short-circuit and a low resistance value. A multi-tester impresses voltage across an LED circuit in inverse correspondence with the resistance of a subject circuit. A low-resistance voltage divider, including a circuit under test having an unknown resistance R.sub.X as a first shoulder or voltage portion, causes a threshold voltage to be impressed across the LED, thereby causing the LED to emit light for circuit resistance values at or below a maximum detectable resistance R.sub.X1. Shorts are detected by switching a shunt resister defining a second shoulder or voltage portion into parallel relationship with the LED circuit. The shunt resister has a low resistance which decreases the sensitivity of the LED to such a point that the threshold voltage is impressed across the LED for a circuit resistance R.sub.X2 of near zero amount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2000
    Inventor: Yan Verkhovskiy
  • Patent number: 6075369
    Abstract: A defibrillator and electrode system that gives the user a visible and/or audible indication of the condition of the electrodes and other parts of the defibrillator system prior to deployment of the electrodes and use of the defibrillator. In a preferred embodiment of the method of this invention, a patient simulation and analyze circuit within the defibrillator periodically tests the condition of the system and provides the user with a visual indication of the system's condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2000
    Assignee: Heartstream
    Inventor: Carlton B. Morgan
  • Patent number: 6057689
    Abstract: An apparatus for detecting leaks in a fluid-filled device used to treat a patient's tissue includes an catheter having an expandable device defining a fluid reservoir about the distal end of the catheter. An internal electrode is in electrical contact with a conductive fluid within the fluid reservoir. A grounding electrode is outside of the fluid reservoir, in electrical contact with the patient's tissue. Voltage is supplied to the internal electrode and the grounding electrode. Where a leak occurs in the expandable device, conductive fluid will contact the patient's tissue, thus creating an electrical current path between the internal electrode and the grounding electrode. This so-called "leak current" is used to generate a leak alarm signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Assignee: Gynecare, Inc.
    Inventor: Vahid Saadat
  • Patent number: 6054849
    Abstract: An electrical testing device for determining the continuity between ground terminals of an electrical power cord and determining the electrical grounding of an electrical power tool. The electrical testing device can also be configured to determine the proper polarity on each of the hot, negative, and ground cord wires of an electrical power extension cord. The electrical testing device includes a plastic case housing one or more batteries which supply power to a test button and the ground terminal of a female receptacle installed in the case. The top surface of the case includes a female receptacle, a test button, and a ground light. The top surface may also include a male plug and an additional female receptacle installed in the case. On the side of the case is an extending metal contact element. The test button is a single pole momentary contact test button.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Inventors: Stephen D. Collier, Wayne E. Hughes
  • Patent number: 6028510
    Abstract: A verification and monitoring system for signal and status indicators and voice and metering features which is particularly suited for a taxi cab is disclosed. The operational status of the indicators are initially verified each time the ignition system of an associated taxi cab is energized. The verification circuit detects the failure of individual indicators even though a plurality of indicators may serve as a single visual display. The voice and metering features are continuously verified.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Assignee: Metrometer Shop, Inc.
    Inventors: Amos Tamam, Leonard Zuckerman
  • Patent number: 6020822
    Abstract: A circuit tester which allows the testing of electrical outlets, telephone circuits and light bulb sockets. The circuit tester is cylindrical with two circuit probes. The first probe is a conventional two-prong electrical plug and the second is a conventional male light bulb connector. A standard telephone jack socket is provided on the side of the cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2000
    Inventor: Forrest A. Marshall
  • Patent number: 6016059
    Abstract: A defibrillator and electrode system that gives the user a visible and/or audible indication of the condition of the electrodes and other parts of the defibrillator system prior to deployment of the electrodes and use of the defibrillator. In a preferred embodiment of the method of this invention, a patient simulation and analyze circuit within the defibrillator periodically tests the condition of the system and provides the user with a visual indication of the system's condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2000
    Assignee: Heartstream, Inc.
    Inventor: Carlton B. Morgan
  • Patent number: 5936407
    Abstract: An intravehicular auto harness tester with switch consisting of a first housing unit mountable within or upon the dashboard of a motor vehicle containing three small light emitting diodes with wiring leading thereto and therefrom coupled with one resistor per diode, with such wiring entering the housing unit and leaving it by way of a coaxial cable leading to or from a second housing unit located typically in the trunk of the vehicle with three prongs and female socket pocket at a front end of the second housing unit for interfacing with an intravehicular auto harness power plug and with three female socket pockets and a prong at a rear end thereof for interfacing with a trailer harness plug and with wiring therein running from prongs to socket pockets and via junctions along such wiring also from the front end prongs to wiring in the coaxial cable leading to the diodes and a ground wire within the cable leading via an off/on switch from the diodes to the front end socket pocket of the second housing unit alo
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Inventor: Leslie R. Borland
  • Patent number: 5920191
    Abstract: An apparatus for monitoring the current flow through a variable load such as various lengths of heater cables. The apparatus can detect a wide range of currents so that the size of the load can vary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1999
    Assignee: Wrap-On Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel A. Maniero, Victor V. Aromin
  • Patent number: 5886642
    Abstract: A hand-held interface couples fill level detection switch terminals on a tank barge with current source terminals of a dockside facility. The interface includes a dockside connector adapted to be connected to the dockside terminals and a barge connector adapted to be connected to the barge terminals and test circuits for respectively testing the lading level detection switches. Each test circuit includes a battery connected in series with the light source of an optocoupler across a pair of terminals of the barge connector. Also connected across the battery are the light-sensitive switching element of the optocoupler, the coil of a normally-open relay and an indicator LED, the contacts of the relay being connected across a pair of terminals of the dockside connector. When the interface connectors are respectively connected to the barge and dockside terminals, the level detection switch under test completes the circuit across the battery through the optocoupler light source so that the optocoupler is energized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1999
    Assignee: Midland Manufacturing Corp.
    Inventor: Gaston C. Barmore, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5877618
    Abstract: A non-contact voltage tester has a self-test feature so that when a switch clip of the tester is actuated, light and sound indicator devices are energized to give a single blink and beep, respectively, following which the tester is ready for probing for a voltage. The light and sound indicator devices also indicate the presence of a voltage when the switch is actuated and a voltage is detected at the probe tip of the tester.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1999
    Assignee: Applied Power, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas M. Luebke, David L. Wiesemann
  • Patent number: 5847557
    Abstract: An apparatus and method of identifying wires or circuits uses plugs with light-emitting diodes ("LED's") attached across the plug contacts corresponding to the wiring circuit. All of the jacks in a terminal or patch panel are filled with such plugs prior to testing and are monitored by a first worker. A second worker, in two-way communication with the first worker, applies a test voltage at the remote terminations of the wires, causing the corresponding LED to light, but no others. The lit LED immediately identifies the circuit, which can be labeled, and the process repeated. When testing is complete, all plugs with LED's are removed from the terminal for re-use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1998
    Inventors: William C. Fincher, Randall W. Fincher