Abstract: Among the embodiments of the present invention are pest control devices (1010, 1110, 1210) each operable to detect the presence of pests. The pest control device (1010, 1110, 1210) has a bait (1032) that is consumed or displaced by one or more species of pest, a pest sensing circuit (1052, 1152, 1252), and a monitoring circuit (1069, 1169, 1269). The pest sensing circuit (1052, 1152, 1252) can be altered by pest activity. The monitoring circuit (1069, 1169, 1269) detects this alteration and reports it automatically or in response to an external stimulus or interrogation to indicate pest presence.

Abstract: An optical traffic signal column including stacked levels fixed to one another by rotation. The base of each level includes, distributed along its periphery, oblong passages and fixed connectors. The conductors include rods each having two ends angularly offset from one another, and including a common conducting rod and a stage-specific conducting rod. The connector rods are identical and respectively fix the bottom of a conducting rod of the relevant level and the top of the respective conducting rod of an adjacent level, the angular offset between the two fixing points corresponding to that of ends of the conducting rods. The conducting rods are mutually arranged and mounted to effect, from one level to the next level, an essentially identical angular position of the common conducting rods and an angular offset of the stage-specific conducting rods.

Abstract: A signalling element, which can be adapted to a light emitter, such as a lamp, the element for signalling includes an external double laminar body of plastic material, with a tronco-conical general shape extended by its larger base into a straight section and open via said larger base, housing two plastic layers of PVC and in its interior, the the external double laminar body defining a space for housing the pair of layers.

Abstract: A self-contained hazard marker which is easily deployed and highly visible. The hazard marker utilized an elevated collapsible illumination device which utilizes LEDs mounted to a flexible printed circuit board in a fashion that allows the circuit board to be formed into a tubular shape with the LEDs on the outer surface of the tube in a fashion that disperses the light in a 360 degree pattern. These LEDs can be illuminated in various patterns thereby producing various effects. They can produce a rotating light effect, a blinking light effect, a strobe effect and a simulated flare. The elevated illumination device is also collapsible into the body (protection chamber) of the marker in the event a vehicle is driven over the marker. The marker has a ramp shape to it that starts at ground level and extends to the top of the unit. This shape inherently prevents the unit from lateral movement when impacted.

Abstract: A computing device is configured with a multifunctional backlit display. The backlighting can be operated in at least a first mode and a second mode. In a first mode, the backlighting provides luminance to the display so that images on the display can be easily seen. In a second mode, the backlighting provides visual stimulus for relaying information to a user or a user's surroundings.

Abstract: The invention relates to a portable, personal alarm device. The device features a housing comfortably held within one hand of its user. The device provides emergency tools, particularly in the event of an automotive emergency such as a vehicle accident. These features include a mechanism to cut through the web material of vehicle's seatbelts, and a mechanism to break the vehicle's windows. Both such features providing emergency means of escape for the vehicle's occupants. The inventive device further includes electronic circuits providing a flashlight function, and an emergency flasher, and also an audible alarm function. The device is water resistant and also may be provided from materials which make it visible in the dark, prior to activation of any of its functions. The inventive device also serves the routine function of a key ring so that it will always be available to the user in the event of an automotive emergency.

Abstract: A cup assembly is provided. The cup assembly is interactive by providing stimuli when the cup body is pressed by a user. The cup can provide sound emitted from an electronics module in a bottom cap. The cup body can use conductive ink to create a circuit for actuation of the sound.

Abstract: A modular warning signal light system comprising at least one support. The at least one support having at least one module receiving port. The module receiving ports constructed and arranged to removably receive the support engagement member of a module. Each module having at least one visible side. The at least one visible side having at least one light emitting diode light source engaged thereto. The at least one light emitting diode light source, module and support all in independent electrical communication with a controller. The controller constructed and arranged to selectively activate the at least one support, the at least one module, the at least one light emitting diode light source, and any combinations thereof to create at least one warning light signal.

Abstract: A multipurpose radio is disclosed to include a power control unit, which uses a rechargeable battery to provide the necessary working voltage to a LED lamp for illumination, a hand-driven dynamo to generate electricity for recharging the rechargeable battery, a power adapter for charging the rechargeable battery with city power supply, a radio circuit unit for receiving AM and FM radio broadcasting signals, TV audio signals and NOAA signals, and a function mode display unit, which uses a speaker for voice output, a screen for data display, and a selector key for frequency selection.

Abstract: A retail customer service annunciator/pager includes a base to recline on a retail tabletop; a tapered body extending upwardly from the base; a combination switch/light adjacent the apex of the tapered body, the switch/light alternately switching a visible light on and off when the switch is manually actuated. The tapered body provides within its outer periphery one or more open compartments to store condiments. The switch/light includes a translucent or transparent lens/cover that is engraved with a company identity indicium. The tabletop annunciator/pager includes a pager including a visible light that is selectively switchable on and off; and a wireless transmitter for communicating from the tabletop annunciator/pager to a remote receiver an on-off status of the visible light. A plural channel wireless receiver responsive to plural wireless transmitters includes a processor to determine the lengths of time the lights are in an on state and a display to annunciate or record the determined lengths of time.

Abstract: A signaling control device apparatus (10) comprises at least one LED (20) having a light emitting surface (18). A sensor (24) is set to detect an external light load (16) directed to the light emitting surface (18) and generate a control signal indicative of a presence of the light load (16). An electrical control system (14) detects the control signal indicative of the light load (16) and sources an elevated current to the LED (20) while the light load (16) is present. The elevated current increases the contrast ratio making the signal perceivable by the users as being in a particular state.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an illumination device for vehicles with at least light-emitting diode (3) and a light control unit (1), wherein the light control unit (1) is connected to the at least one light-emitting diode (3) and a pulse-width modulated clock signal (PWM) can be generated and transmitted to the at least one light-emitting diode (3) with the light control unit (1). The illumination device for vehicles according to the invention comprises a circuit (2) arranged between the light control unit (1) and the at least one light-emitting diode (3), with which, depending on the control signal (S), the pulse-width modulated clock signal (PWM) can be fed via different resistors (R1, R2, R3) to the at least one light-emitting diode (3). The present invention further relates to a method for controlling an illumination device for vehicles with at least one light-emitting diode (3) and a light control unit (1).

Abstract: A horn device includes a trumpet fixture which removably attaches to the valve portion of a canister containing a charge of compressed air. An actuator button on the trumpet fixture is operable to open the valve assembly of the canister causing release of the pressurized air through the trumpet fixture to produce a loud horn noise. One or more light signal lamps are provided on the trumpet fixture. In a preferred embodiment, the light signal lamps are powered by one or more batteries carried on the trumpet fixture. In a further embodiment, a light emitting lamp on the rear facing end of the trumpet fixture is covered with a split color lens, having a green half and a red half to provide auxiliary running lights of a water vessel. In still a further embodiment, the light emitting lamp is provided in a light signaling device which is hingedly attached to the trumpet fixture. Control buttons allow selective activation of the light signal lamps in one or more modes of operation (e.g.

Abstract: A baton includes an elongated flexible resilient member having a wand portion extending from a handle formed at a first end of the member and divided into two separate elongated half sections substantially longitudinally bisecting the wand portion and the handle. The two half sections may be releasably mounted to one another to form the baton.

Abstract: The restaurant business is often a fast paced, stressful, and confusing business to work in. Servers frequently have a hard time guessing patron needs and patrons often find it difficult to gain the servers attention. Sometimes patrons want to be left alone with their meal or conversation only to be interrupted by a server, creating an uncomfortable situation for both patron and server. With the Waiter Call Light, patrons can gain the servers attention with a push of a button. With it's side mounted light source the server can easily know (even from across the room) when the customer requires attention. This will increase efficiency in communication between server and patron. Table turn over times can be significantly decreased, which helps shorten wait times, allows for more customers to be served, increases restaurant sales/profits, all while making the dining experience easier and more pleasurable for both server and customer.

Abstract: A control device for work lamp includes a microprocessor, which is able to receive signals sent from a power supply unit and a switch. The microprocessor is able to determine the number of times that the switch is pressed and then send out a command to the activation unit, which will in turn activate the light unit. All or a part (a quarter, half or three quarters) of the lights of the light unit may be turned on in their full brightness, half of their full brightness or a portion of the full brightness or in flashing light. Hence, the control device of the present invention allows a user to select from several brightness levels according to the actual needs so as to save electricity.

Abstract: A pen with a storage function includes a penholder, an end of which is installed with a storage device, enabling a USB (Universal Serial Bus) connector of the storage device to be protruded out of the penholder, for connecting with an external computer to download data. A chosen place on a surface of the penholder is installed with a light pervious casing, and an inner wall of the penholder, corresponding to the light pervious casing, is surrounded with at least one solar power flashing LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), such that when the LCD has absorbed sufficient solar energy, commercial prints on the LCD can be flashingly displayed.

Abstract: A reflective law enforcement vehicle decoy comprises an image of a law enforcement vehicles reflective areas (FIG. 2), such as pursuit lights (12ab), headlights (14ab), decals (18,) numbering area (24), spot light (16) and license plate (20) traced onto a suitable non-reflective surface and separated into groups (FIG. 4), covered with reflective material in various patterns (34,36,38,40), consistent to colors associated with a particular law enforcement agencies marking and coloring schemes, and attached to a suitable mounting platform (42) for placement along a roadway to allow passing motorist headlights to illuminate the decoy, thereby creating the illusion of a law enforcement vehicle (10), causing motorist to reduce speed in targeted areas.

Abstract: An electronic baggage tag, attachable to the handle of a piece of baggage, for creating and reviewing a checklist of items to be packed in the bag. The tag includes a display screen, manually operable controls for selecting commands and items displayed on the display screen, a software program, a processor, a memory, and circuitry suitable for operating the software. Stored in the memory is a master list of potential contents, from which a packing checklist is created and stored in memory for later use, and a data access routine executable by the processor which is operable to display the items on the checklist.

Abstract: A bulb adapted with an infrared sensor includes a LED and a power switch, the switch being turned on to light the LED in the bulb when the sensor detects the heat emitted from a human body and turned off to kill the light when failing to detect the heat for practical use and energy saving purposes.

Abstract: An information processing system formed with a relay and light output devices. In the system, an external information receiver receives first external information transmitted from an outside. An external information acquisition unit acquires second external information. A light output controller controls, based on the first and second external information, the light output to be in one or more number of output states, among three or more number of output states. At the relay, an external information receiver receives a sender identifier for identifying sender of the external information, and the external information. A transmission control information memory stores one or more sets of a transmission destination identifier and transmission control information. A transmission destination identifier acquisition unit acquires transmission destination identifier from the transmission control information memory.

Abstract: An NBC marker light is designed to be simplistic, lightweight, and expendable. The case is two pieces, designed for ease of assembly. The assembly includes a circuit card, one or more batteries, light sources, typically IR and visible LEDs, and a custom designed rotary switch. A diffuser is designed to enhance side visibility in all directions.

Abstract: An emergency light includes a flash light lamp and a plurality of LED lamps activated in strobe-like fashion to alert emergency personnel in transit the proper household needing their assistance. The LED lamps activated in excess of 120 times per minute is visible at distances in excess of one mile. The emergency light may be mounted to a window pane using suction cups, to a steel door or other ferrous-metallic surface using magnetic strips, hung on a door using an integral hanger or stood on a flat bottom surface.

Abstract: An outdoor signaling apparatus that can be used for several various notification purposes. The outdoor signaling apparatus has a circular outer casing and a retractable rod attached to the outer casing. Within the outer casing, there are two separate compartments, each of which has a red light, blue light, and yellow light. An individual, through incorporated power means, can turn on all the lights of a particular color and use the outdoor signaling apparatus for various purposes, depending on the color of the lights being displayed.

Abstract: A signal device for attracting the attention of a service provider. The signal device has a body with a tapered base adapted to fit into a neck of a bottle and a slot in a lower end of the base for balancing the signal device on a rim of a drinking vessel. An intermittent light source is provided in the top of the body.

Abstract: The invention relates to a portable, personal alarm device. The device features a housing comfortably held within one hand of its user. The device provides emergency tools, particularly in the event of an automotive emergency such as a vehicle accident. These features include a mechanism to cut through the web material of vehicle's seatbelts, and a mechanism to break the vehicle's windows. Both such features providing emergency means of escape for the vehicle's occupants. The inventive device further includes electronic circuits providing a flashlight function, and an emergency flasher, and also an audible alarm function. The device is water resistant and also may be provided from materials which make it visible in the dark, prior to activation of any of its functions. The inventive device also serves the routine function of a key ring so that it will always be available to the user in the event of an automotive emergency.

Abstract: A variable candela strobe unit couples a substantially constant trigger voltage to a trigger electrode of a gas discharge tube irrespective of the voltage provided across the tube which is specified by a selected candela output value. The trigger voltage is great enough at low candela output settings to provide reliable triggering. It is not high enough even at the highest output settings to cause arcing of the associated step-up transformer.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for using an light source to incapacitate a subject in which the light source strobes by a spatial scanning through a pattern and a temporal flashing at a rate sufficient to cause incapacitation. The strobing (meaning both spatial scanning and temporal flashing is in a pattern to prevent the subject from escaping the strobing effect. The flashing is timed so that each flash point in the pattern will flash at a rate and sequence to cause incapacitation. In a preferred embodiment, the light source is an array of LEDs or laser diodes.

Abstract: A warning beacon includes a transparent housing, having a triangular shape suggestive of a warning sign, the housing having a front face, a back face, and side edges. A mounting plate is disposed within the housing between the front and back faces, and a plurality of LEDs are supported by the mounting plate, and oriented to provide light in at least a forward direction through the front face.

Abstract: A mobile signal light set is disclosed to include three warning signal bars collapsibly arranged on a base to form a light-emitting warning triangle, which base holding a dry battery and a rechargeable battery on the inside, a lamp bulb at one end, a battery charging/discharging control switch, a warning signal bar on/off switch for controlling on/off status of the LEDs of the warning signal bars, a lamp bulb on/off switch for controlling on/off status of the lamp bulb, a cable with AC adapter connector for converting city power supply into AC power supply for charging the rechargeable battery, a cable with car DC connector connectable to the socket for cigarette lighter of a car for charging the battery of the car with the battery power supply of the rechargeable battery or charging the rechargeable battery with the battery of the car subject to the control of the battery charging/discharging control switch.

Abstract: An emergency lamp for use in an area during ambient low light conditions is provided. The emergency lamp comprises a hand-held housing having a first end and a second end with at least one light emitting source within the housing. A power mechanism mounted within the housing illuminates the light emitting source. An activation mechanism activates the power mechanism only during low light conditions.

Abstract: A deployment system for illumination devices, including: a holding mechanism for engaging at least one illumination device; and a deploying mechanism for causing the at least one illumination device to exit the system. In the preferred embodiment, the deploying mechanism is at least one solenoid, where the at least one solenoid extends to cause the illumination device to exit the system. The system allows a user or an automated system to deploy illumination devices without being exposed to dangerous conditions. For example, the system can be mounted internally or externally to a law enforcement, road crew, or utility company vehicle. The user may then deploy the illumination devices to mark the road without being subjected to the dangers of oncoming traffic.

Abstract: A waterproof, portable storage container for storing financial/legal documents and financial/legal help documents has an upper case molding having a top wall and four sidewalls defining an upper case cavity and a bottom case molding having a bottom wall and four sidewalls defining a bottom case cavity. A financial/legal document retention device is selectively secured to one of the upper case molding and the bottom case molding, for storing financial and legal documents, said financial/legal document retention device having a plurality of folders to store a plurality of classes of documents, and being a generally rectangular accordion-like file folder system wherein each of the folders is moveably flippable. The storage container further includes a computer-readable-medium holder, selectively secured to the bottom case molding, which stores at least one computer-readable medium having encoded thereon financial/legal help documents.

Abstract: An illumination device, including: a shell with a plurality of sides, where the device can be positioned upon a surface or attached or suspended at any of the plurality of sides; and at least one light-emitting device within the shell, where when the device is positioned upon a surface or attached or suspended at any of the plurality of sides of the shell, light from the at least one light-emitting device emits through each of the plurality of sides of the shell. The device is thus easy to deploy and use. Its design is compatible with outsourced manufacturing, allowing for cost savings. The device can be reused many times. The device can also emit light for many hours longer and has ruggedness that far exceeds conventional devices. The device can also be used where conventional devices and other lighting devices cannot, including underwater.

Abstract: This invention relates to systems to regulate pace. More particularly, this invention relates to providing a user with a regulated pace through the use of an electronic pace regulating, timing, and coaching device. In accordance with the instant invention, a portable programmable electronic device is configured to provide an audible signal at a repeated frequency that is selectable by the user. The pace timer and coaching device provides the user with a set audible cue at a set frequency to be followed during an exercise session. The audible cues provide a single regulated pace to be followed by the user while performing repetitive actions, motions, or strokes such that a desired training or racing pace is adhered to. The device is configured to detachably couple to swim goggles, to a user, to sunglasses, to an arm band, to exercise equipment, or to other articles of clothing utilized while exercising.

Abstract: The present invention relates to novel patterned embossing and patterned filling methods. Both methods are simple, reliable and cost effective ways for manufacturing the segment of signage electrophoretic displays. The displays prepared by the present invention requires only one patterned electrode layer. The undesired visible line traces are eliminated and the manufacture of the present displays does not involve the costly precision registration step used in the previously known assembly processes dealing with two patterned electrodes. Moreover, the electrophoretic fluid is present only in the patterned and switchable area of the display. This not only significantly reduces the material cost, but also improves the overall display quality by reducing defects and non-uniformity.

Abstract: An exemplary aircraft anticollision beacon is constructed around a faceted aluminum support cylinder and base. The support cylinder has an outside surface with ten vertically oriented substantially planar faces. An array of LEDs is mounted in thermally conductive relationship on each face of the support cylinder. Each LED is partially surrounded by a trough-shaped reflecting surface that re-directs off axis light into a horizontal plane. Axially aligned, radially adjacent reflecting troughs combine to form the circumferential reflecting troughs. The support cylinder and base are connected in thermally conductive relationship to define a thermal pathway from the LEDs to a heat radiation surface on the base. The base is also configured to act as a heat sink for heat generating components of the LED driver circuits. The exemplary beacon employs a distributed energizing circuit in which each driver is configured to energize two of the ten arrays of LEDs.

Abstract: A modular warning signal light system comprising at least one support. The at least one support having at least one module receiving port. The module receiving ports constructed and arranged to removably receive the support engagement member of a module. Each module having at least one visible side. The at least one visible side having at least one light emitting diode light source engaged thereto. The at least one light emitting diode light source, module and support all in independent electrical communication with a controller. The controller constructed and arranged to selectively activate the at least one support, the at least one module, the at least one light emitting diode light source, and any combinations thereof to create at least one warning light signal.

Abstract: An illuminated sign system is comprised of independent sign modules that may be used individually or associated with additional sign modules to form a sign matrix of variable size and shape. Individual sign modules are independently capable of displaying text or graphics stored in the sign module's memory or as entered by a user. Larger signs can be easily created in the field by connecting multiple sign modules together into a matrix. Control circuitry in the modules detects the presence of adjacent modules and shifts control of the matrix display to the module in a master position. The text or graphics on the module in the master position is preferably resized to fit the size of the matrix. A user can control the entire matrix by controlling the module in the master position.

Abstract: A portable kit for use at a polling place to ease access of a disabled person to voting facilities. The portable kit includes a case containing a base, a collapsible post for mounting on the base and an activation switch mountable on the post and having a radio transmitter for emitting a radio signal when operated by a disabled person. A sign is also provided on the post to alert the disabled person of the presence of the assistance. A radio receiver and loudspeaker is provided inside the polling place.

Abstract: A measuring system according to the present invention includes a biosensor 2, and a measuring device 1 capable of assaying a specified component in a biological sample applied to the sensor 2. An announcement device 22 indicates a measuring procedure or a measurement result in the measuring device 1 by voice or the like by being combined with the measuring device 1.

Abstract: A multifunction warning device is provided for being used as a flashlight, a warning sign or an illuminating traffic baton. The multifunction warning device mainly contains a base, plural legs, and a rechargeable device. The base has a top portion and a bottom portion having a first electric socket therein. Each of the plural legs is pivotally secured to the base. Each of the plural legs has plural illuminating elements thereon. The plural illuminating elements are electrically connected to the first electric socket. The rechargeable device contains a shell, plural rechargeable batteries, a charging circuit, and a discharging circuit. The shell has a charging connector detachably plugged into the first electric socket and thereby electric power is provided from the rechargeable batteries to the illuminating elements. The plural legs are stretchable to be a support and retractable to be assembled as a baton.

Abstract: A direction indicator system and associated method for cyclists, joggers and other users includes one or more direction indicating elements and a cooperating sensor structured to sense the position of the direction indicating means such that when a direction indicating element is moved out of the sensing zones, the indicator is activated, and when the direction indicating element moves within the sensing zone, it is deactivated. In one embodiment, a pair of indicators is employed and may be used to indicate direction of intended movement of a cyclist.

Abstract: A multi-function customer satisfaction survey device, system and method. A plurality of stackable tip trays in a restaurant each include a survey device and a calculator. Survey questions are presented on a display screen, and a survey keypad is used by the customer to enter responses. The responses are stored in a memory in the tray. The trays stack on a base unit that simultaneously collects the responses from the stacked trays, simultaneously programs the stacked trays with survey questions, and simultaneously recharges a battery in each tray.

Abstract: A writing instrument including an integrated display module. The display module is used to provide a presentation to a user or consumer. The presentation can be in the form of scrolling text, a still image, a flashing image, an image that fades in and out of view or a movie. The presentation can be an advertisement, for entertainment or informative in nature.

Abstract: The present invention relates to restaurants, computer networks, wireless portable computers and more specifically to a restaurant service and transaction monitoring; time management; and processing system and method.

Abstract: A barrel of a flashlight has a front barrel portion defining a front receiving space, and a rear barrel portion connected to the front barrel portion and defining a rear receiving space for receiving a battery unit. A lamp is disposed in a reflector retained in the front receiving space of the front barrel portion. A conductor unit is disposed in the barrel and establishes electrical connection between the lamp and the battery unit. A coupling sleeve has a front coupling section formed with an internally threaded surface for engaging an externally threaded mouth of a light-transmissible bottle body of a plastic beverage bottle, a rear coupling section mounted securely on the front barrel portion, and an intermediate section interconnecting the front and rear coupling sections. A lens piece is mounted in the intermediate section of the coupling sleeve.

Abstract: An illumination device that is highly durable, wireless, programmable, inexpensive emits little to no heat, is shockproof, water-resistant, energy efficient, is multidirectional, responds to a multitude of stimulus and adapts for a multitude of purposes. The programmable device provides varying amounts of light in accordance with programmed instructions.

Abstract: A multifunction warning device can be used as a flashlight, a warning sign and an illuminating traffic baton. The multifunction warning device mainly contains: a manual power generator, a lamp, a seat, a storage battery, and plural legs. The lamp is secured and electronically connected to a head end of the manual power generator. The seat is connected the manual power generator. The seat has a socket therein. The storage battery has an automobile charging connector removably attached to the socket of the seat. Each of the plural legs contains: a longitude frame and a light pervious shell. The longitude frame has plural LEDs thereon. The longitude frame is pivotally secured to the seat. The light pervious shell is fastened to the longitude frame. The plural legs can be assembled to a baton body.

Abstract: A remote control device when actuated by a user transmits a visually perceptible coded signal to a sensor associated with a doorbell which receives the signal and causes activation of the doorbell as desired. The sensor has multiple settings which control operation of the doorbell such that any, specified, or no remote devices may operate the doorbell depending on the setting that is selected on the sensor.