Portable Self-contained (e.g., Movie Usher's Signalling Flashlight) Patents (Class 340/321)
  • Patent number: 5583480
    Abstract: A visual display unit simulating a known OEM (original equipment manufacture) auto anti-theft alarm embodying a rotating on-off switch for a flashing LED which is not applicable for OEM use, but usable for the simulated unit since the locked auto in which the unit is observed prevents inspection that would reveal its true nature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1996
    Inventor: Joseph Bartos
  • Patent number: 5578992
    Abstract: A personal safety alarm device, including a main housing, and a light source maintained within the housing. An audio alarm speaker is located on an outside surface of the housing, along with a pair of high voltage electrodes located on the top surface of the main housing. In addition, the device features a timekeeping device including a DC powered oscillator, memory unit, and associated display device therewith. There is a high voltage generating circuit within the housing which is coupled to the electrodes. Finally, an alarm triggering circuit has an alarm switch which, when activated, causes both the light source to flash intermittently and the audio alarm speaker to sound intermittently. The high voltage generating circuit produces, at the pair of high voltage electrodes, a voltage capable of delivering a stunning electric shock to an assailant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1996
    Inventor: Montgomery G. B. Harding
  • Patent number: 5568117
    Abstract: A portable electric pump and illuminating/alarm device includes a main body housing, an illumination lamp mounted to the main body housing to illuminate in a front direction, two alarm lamps respectively mounted to two lateral sides of the main body housing to illuminate in a lateral direction, a pressure gauge mounted to the main body housing, an air outlet nozzle, a plug for electrical connection with an external power source, and switches for controlling on and off of the illumination lamp and alarm lamps as well as the air outlet nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1996
    Inventor: Kun-Shan Hsu
  • Patent number: 5565839
    Abstract: A preferred form of a battery-powered, portable flashing superluminescent light-emitting diode safety warning light 10 is described having a single SLD 40 mounted at a shallow angle of between 3 and 22 degrees on a reflective printed circuit board 54. The SLD 40 has a narrow optical band width that is directed to a thin right angle lens 24 that is mounted in a curved condition between sidewalls 16 and 18. The lens 24 has a smooth outer surface 62 and a grooved inner surface 64. The inner surface 64 has parallel "V" shaped grooves formed therein that form linear prisms 76 that extend in a curved contour between the sidewalls 16 and 18. The light 10 has a battery-powered electrical circuit 50 for pulsing the SLD 40 at a frequency of between 1 and 3 Hz and with a pulse width of between 10 and 50 percent of the frequency period. The electrical circuit 50 utilizes a NPN transistor 98 that is mounted backwards for turning the SLD 40 OFF and ON during the duty cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1996
    Assignee: Grafon Corporartion
    Inventor: Glen T. Poss
  • Patent number: 5557253
    Abstract: This invention concerns a device for confirming an official's call in a field sport, including a flag for waving to visually indicate to others that the event has occurred, a shaft upon which the flag is loosely attached, a handle to support the shaft integral therewith, a power source, an electronic signal generator and transmitter, and a receiver worn by another offical for receiving the signal in confirmation of the official's call.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 17, 1996
    Assignee: Max M. Stern
    Inventors: Kenneth J. Hegemann, Max M. Stern
  • Patent number: 5521595
    Abstract: A self or internally powered electric strobe-type illumination beacon for use in connection with hazard-warning, navigation or any other activity requiring the temporary placement of an illumination device having a switch means operable by rotating the top section about the bottom section enabling the repeated pulsing of the lamp means for light emissions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1996
    Inventors: George L. Totten, Trevor W. Stewart
  • Patent number: 5489887
    Abstract: A waiter signaling device comprising a pole having a lower base and an upper tip end, a light source coupled to the tip end, a power source for energizing the light source, a switch mechanism connected to the pole and operable in one orientation to energize the light source, thereby generating a signal indicating that service is required, and in another orientation to deenergize the light source, thereby generating a signal indicating that service is not required, and a coupling mechanism for coupling the base end of the pole to a table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 6, 1996
    Inventor: Miguel A. Porras
  • Patent number: 5469346
    Abstract: A device which can be set to start a light flashing unattended at a predetermined time. The device includes a light and a battery, together with a small electronic clock. The clock has a display for displaying a time, a memory for holding a settable alarm time, and alarm output terminals for outputting a signal at a pre-established time stored in the memory. An electronic control circuit receives the signal from the clock at the pre-established time, and causes the light to begin flashing at that time. In the embodiment shown here, the control circuit flashes the light for a predetermined time, and then turns the light off. In this embodiment the device includes a casing, and a switch mounted in the casing and electrically connected between the battery and the light. By this switch, the light can be turned on and off in a manner generally conventional for a flashlight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 21, 1995
    Assignee: Paul R. Haut
    Inventors: Paul R. Haut, William Schuster
  • Patent number: 5461551
    Abstract: A portable drakroom safelight which incorporates several features which enhance its usefulness in a darkroom. The portable safelight includes a lamp, a safelight filter, rechargeable batteries, a light sensor, and control means. The safelight filter filters all light produced by the lamp, thus making the safelight safe for use in a darkroom and with photosensitive materials. A surface mounting bracket or stand supports the portable safelight and includes a transformer for converting household electric current into low voltage direct current suitable for use by the portable safelight. When the portable safelight is removed from the mounting bracket it automatically switches to operate from the rechargeable batteries and its illumination level is automatically reduced. The lamp is automatically turned off or on when the light sensor detects the presence or absence of ambient white light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1995
    Inventor: Magill W. Clayton
  • Patent number: 5455566
    Abstract: A modular personal security device is described which includes a body having an interior battery receiving cavity, a handgrip and at least one module mounting surface whereby electronic and mechanical modules are mounted to the body. A first power supply circuit connects the battery receiving cavity with a first power switch connector on the body and a first power connector on the module mounting surface. A second power supply circuit connects the battery receiving cavity with a second power switch connector on the body and a second power connector on the module mounting surface. A multi-position trigger activated switch module is connected to the first power switch connector and the second power switch connector. Upon the trigger being pressed to one position the first power switch connector completes the first power supply circuit. By continuing to press the trigger to another position the second power switch connector completes the second power supply circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 3, 1995
    Inventor: Brian Conway
  • Patent number: 5453729
    Abstract: A solar warning device and in particular to one including: a solar chip device having a mushroom-like top with an annular flange and a rectangular recess for receiving solar cells, said rectangular recess being filled with silicon for fixing the solar cells in position, said solar chip device further having two downwardly extending legs; a reflecting device having a cylindrical casing with reflecting lines at an inner surface and a neck at a top, a light mounting disposed within said cylindrical casing and having a top plate, a base plate, a light-emitting diode fixing plate, and a pillar, said fixing plate being formed with a plurality of holes for keeping light-emitting diodes in place, a printed circuit board mounted under the base plate of said light mounting, and a conducting pin mounted on a positive pole of said printed circuit board and extending downwardly through said cylindrical casing; and a fixing device having a cylinder provided at a top with external threads adapted to engage with internal thr
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 26, 1995
    Inventor: Chiu-Tsai Chu
  • Patent number: 5446441
    Abstract: A mobile signal lamp and lamp mount unit including a housing covered with a lampshade to hold a lamp assembly, a battery box fastened to a downward back chamber on the housing, and a signal lamp mounting device connected to the housing, the signal lamp mounting device including a belt for fastening to the user's wrist or waist or the bicycle frame, etc., a base frame turned about a screw on the buckle of the belt and retained in position by a rotary member, and a supporting frame pivotably connected to the base frame to hold the housing and fixed in the desired angular position by a screw bolt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1995
    Inventor: Yan-Chang Su
  • Patent number: 5446345
    Abstract: A portable flasher device is disclosed in which a pair of body members are connected together to form a housing which has bi-directional planar dimensions and an axial dimension, the planar dimensions being substantially larger than the axial dimensions to give the housing a substantially greater planar extent that the axial extent, and the bi-directional dimensions being such as to define a peripheral extent of the housing to make it suitable for holding the flasher device comfortably within the average human hand. The device includes a pair of battery compartments arranged at an angle to each other to define a space therebetween, with a circuit board and other operating components arranged within the space so as to reduce the thickness of the device to a minimum. A reflector and flasher lamp are mounted within a clear housing over the circuit board. The device is provided with a means for strapping it to a user's wrist or arm, or mounting it on a standard photographic tripod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1995
    Assignee: Visibility Systems Connecticut Limited Partnership
    Inventors: Wade Halabi, Kai K. Ho
  • Patent number: 5440464
    Abstract: A light shroud for a highway sign comprising a hand held sign having a panel with an indicia display thereon. A handle extends downwardly from a bottom edge of the panel. A person can grip the handle and hold up the panel to display the indicia thereon. An easy removable structure is attachable about the perimeter of the panel for illuminating the indicia upon the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 8, 1995
    Inventors: Richard R. Nowlin, Lewis O. Wing
  • Patent number: 5436814
    Abstract: A portable, durable and rugged hand-held lighting device particularly useful as a safety flare or illumination device is described. This device utilizes a rare gas containing illumination source (e.g. a glass tube containing the rare gas) and is particularly useful in projecting light during darkness or in fog. The light source may be any of the conventional rare gas materials but neon is preferred. A fluorescent material coating the inside of the glass tube may be used enhance the output of the light from other rare gasses. The power supply for this unit may be replaceable or rechargeable batteries or the device may be connected to a permanent DC or AC power supply to enhance the life thereof. A transformer is used to increase the electrical power supply from the power supply to the glass tube and is required in order to get the high intensity light output afforded by the use of rare gas illuminating devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 25, 1995
    Assignee: Brite-Glow Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Earl Hanley
  • Patent number: 5416670
    Abstract: A watercraft navigational light system including a red and green bow light (10) and a white rear light (12). The red bow light (15) is for positioning to illuminate port side of the watercraft (14), and the green bow light (16) is for positioning to illuminate starboard side of the watercraft (14). The white rear light (12) is for positioning aft of the bow light (10). The lights (10, 12) each include a chemiluminescent light source having a chemiluminescent substance and a translucent container for encapsulating the chemiluminescent substance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 16, 1995
    Inventor: Ricky J. Authier
  • Patent number: 5414405
    Abstract: An identification device comprising an IR LED contained within a housing which is adapted to be carried externally by a person or object who or which is to be identifiable in dark conditions. In cases where the device is to be used as a personnel identification beacon (PIB) the housing can carry means to enable it to have a "stick-on" capability whereby the housing can be easily attached or detached to/from the external clothing of a wearer. The IR LED can be adapted to flash and this can be in a coded sequence to enable the particular wearer to be identified.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 9, 1995
    Assignees: Colebrand Limited, Oxley Developments Company Limited
    Inventors: Robin I. T. Hogg, Geoffrey S. Edwards
  • Patent number: 5400008
    Abstract: A location marker includes a casing, a switch assembly and a lens enclosing a flashable strobe lamp. The location marker is powered by batteries and an electronic circuit that converts the battery voltage to a trigger voltage for illumination of the strobe lamp. The switch assembly is non-intrusive and maintains water tight integrity inside the casing. The switch assembly futher includes a magnetically operable switch for selectively connecting and disconnecting two pairs of terminals. An R.F. transmitting location marker is also employed using a transmitter circuit and an antenna.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 21, 1995
    Inventor: James T. Toohey
  • Patent number: 5365213
    Abstract: A warning apparatus includes a body member for disposal around at least a portion of the hand and the wrist; a warning member for emitting a warning signal attached to the body member; and a switch for actuating the warning member attached to the body member so that the switch is substantially adjacent to at least one finger of the hand and being electrically connected to the warning member so that actuation of the switch causes the warning member to emit a warning signal. The apparatus preferably has at least two rigid protective support members arranged to follow front and back contours of the wrist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 15, 1994
    Inventors: Nathaniel H. Paull, Howard P. Davis
  • Patent number: 5363092
    Abstract: A Portable signaling device comprises a housing having a first face and a second face, the housing being provided with a first opening in the first face and a second opening in the second face. The first opening is smaller than the second opening. A lamp is mounted to the housing for motion between a first position in which the lamp is oriented towards the first opening and a second position in which the lamp is oriented towards an interior of the housing. A shifting component is movably mounted to the housing and engageable with a lamp mount for operating on the mount to move the lamp between the first position and the second position. An electric power supply is provided in the housing. Contacts are provided in the housing for operatively connecting the power supply to the lamp at the first position and the second position only. At other positions of the lamp, the lamp is disconnected from the power supply and is therefore de-energized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 8, 1994
    Inventor: Jovanka Starchevich
  • Patent number: 5357246
    Abstract: A portable torso mounted signal device for communicating traffic directives to pedestrians, airport terminal, and vehicular traffic comprising of four strategically placed colored lenses on a board (10); board (10) is shaped in such a manner as to accommodate two lenses (12,14), circular in shape which are vertically positioned, a second pair of lenses arrow shaped (16,18), horizontally positioned on the face of the signal device. The device is self-contained in that a harness (60), power source (66), electrical circuits, and electrical switches (82) to control illumination of colored lenses are all fixed to this same board. Indicating lights (74) on the posterior surface inform the operator which lenses are illuminated during operation. The signal device is readily portable, requires no assembly, ready for immediate use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 18, 1994
    Inventor: Martin E. Wendelken, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5355115
    Abstract: The invention provides a payment folder having a signal device for communicating to a server a patron's readiness and urgency to pay a service establishment's bill. In one embodiment, the signal device includes at least one battery powered light, such as a light emitting diode, mounted on the payment folder so as to be visible to an observer. The light(s) are illuminated in one or more colors and may be caused to blink in response to appropriate positioning of a control switch that can include a control circuit. In other embodiments, the signal device is a manually positionable colored surface, such as a flag, attached to the payment folder. Signaling is accomplished by withdrawing the colored surface from within the payment folder or by positioning the colored surface so that it is visible through an opening in or a transparent portion of the payment folder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 11, 1994
    Assignee: Goor Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Dan Goor, E. Patricia Goor, Robert P. Harnisch
  • Patent number: 5349340
    Abstract: Mobile apparatus for attachment to a hospital bed, gurney, wheelchair, or similar transport device, has an attendant call button operable by the patient in case of an emergency, thereby activating a signal to summon an attendant. In a preferred embodiment, the signal includes both a visual indicator and an audible indicator, wherein the visual indicator is a light positioned at the distal end of a stanchion mounted to a housing, and the audible indicator is a beeper disposed within the housing. The call button is attached to the distal end of a retractable power cord and has a clip associated therewith for securing the button to the patient's clothing, bed covering, or other location convenient for the patient. Electronic circuitry contained within the housing and powered by a rechargeable battery is employed to sequentially control the operation of the light and beeper. The housing is easily detachable from the transport apparatus to facilitate recharging of the battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 20, 1994
    Assignee: Hunter Fan Company
    Inventor: Herbert E. Blumenthal
  • Patent number: 5325279
    Abstract: A portable personnel locating safety device for use in multiple-storied or high-rise buildings for attachment to a window to allow ground observers to determine in which rooms occupants are trapped, especially during a fire. The device is adhered to a window and has an aperture with an illuminating flashing light attached therethrough. The kit contains internal compartments which house rolls of tape that can be used by trapped occupants to seal cracks around doors to reduce the intake of smoke until help arrives.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 28, 1994
    Assignees: Anthony K. Freelove, Shandal Von Wood, Mark Freelove, Martin Freelove
    Inventors: Martin Freelove, Mark Freelove
  • Patent number: 5319365
    Abstract: A portable hazard-warning light assembly (10) that is designed to warn on-coming vehicular traffic of a hazardous traffic/road condition. The assembly (10) consists of an elongated tubular body (12) having attached to its top edge (12A) a removable lens head (18) that houses an incandescent light bulb (62) that may be connected to a flasher (36). The bulb and flasher are powered by a single battery (60) that is housed within a battery compartment (20) located at the bottom edge (12D) of the body (12) and that includes a threaded battery compartment cover (28). The body (12) also has attached a slidable leg ring (34A) that has pivotally attached four retractable legs (34D) that are each supported by a leg brace (34H). To extend the legs, the ring (34A) is grasped and lowered. Conversely, to retract the legs, the ring is moved to its upward position. To apply power to the light bulb (62), the cover (28) is rotated which allows the battery (60) to move upwards and complete the electrical power circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 7, 1994
    Assignee: Alltrade Inc.
    Inventor: George Hillinger
  • Patent number: 5313188
    Abstract: A flashing safety warning light in which a superluminescent light-emitting diode (SLD) light source is driven by an oscillatory drive signal at a visually imperceptible but highly efficient operating frequency, the oscillatory drive signal preferably being a pulse signal of 1 to 5 KHz to cause the SLD to be illuminated and extinguished at the oscillatory drive signal frequency, such that extinction of the SLD is not visually perceptible. The oscillatory drive signal is in turn gated on and off in accordance with a gating signal at a low, highly visually perceptible frequency in the range of 3 to 12 Hz with a pulse duty cycle of between 10 to 60% in order to cause the SLD to be visually perceived as flashing on and off at the gating signal frequency in an attention-getting manner. An implementation of the flashing safety warning light for use as a bicycle safety flasher is described, and offers enhanced warning visibility with extended battery life.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 17, 1994
    Assignee: Bell Sports, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert S. Choi, C. Kwai Kong, Oong Choi
  • Patent number: 5313187
    Abstract: One or more superluminescent light emitting diodes (SLDS) are driven with an oscillatory square wave pulse drive signal Vd varying between OVDC and 1.8-3.2VDC at a frequency between 1Hz to 12Hz, preferably between 6Hz to 8Hz, and having a pulse duty cycle between 5% to 10%, preferably between 6% to 8%, to periodically forward bias the SLDs into illumination and produce a brilliant rapidly flashing light having high on-off contrast for enhanced visibility and perceptibility at a distance, thus being usable for battery-powered visual indicator and warning flasher applications. A low frequency oscillator stage generates an oscillatory square wave voltage signal Vo which drives a power driver stage to produce the correspondingly oscillating drive voltage signal Vd which is supplied to the SLDS.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 17, 1994
    Assignee: Bell Sports, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert S. Choi, C. Kwai Kong, Oong Choi
  • Patent number: 5307047
    Abstract: This is a ring fitted with a device that sounds an alarm during times of emergencies. The special features of the ring are a transmission circuit and alarm device that emits a sound enclosed in the setting of the ring. The switches are at the top of the setting forming a connection between the transmission circuit and the battery when pressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 26, 1994
    Inventor: Haruyo Morioka
  • Patent number: 5278556
    Abstract: A remote control light emitting automobile locating alarm system includes a receiver for placement within the automobile, and a remote control unit for energizing the receiver in a cordless fashion. The main unit within the automobile includes a transparent body part which can emit light and is covered with a garment selected from different kinds of animal characters, where light can radiate through the character cover. The animal character figure has appendages which can be moved up and down by a mechanical arrangement, and light bulbs are provided within the transparent body part. Upon actuation of the main unit from the remote control unit, both the mechanical arrangement and the electrical circuit are energized to cause moving motion of light emitting parts of the animal character. If desired, an alarm signal can also be sounded to assist one in locating his/her car regardless of whether or not the area is dark or bright.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 11, 1994
    Inventor: Kwang J. Oh
  • Patent number: 5276424
    Abstract: A handheld sign having printing and shape suggestive of certain activities, such as a "stop" sign, and further having at least two lights in which only a single light is illuminated at any one time. The flashing between the lights provides added attention getting capability and hence more safety. The lights are powered by a battery pack which is preferably rechargeable through normal household current, a solar radiation collecting apparatus mounted onto the sign, or via an automobile cigarette lighter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 4, 1994
    Inventor: John J. Hegemann
  • Patent number: 5254970
    Abstract: A personal alarm device having programmable deactivating, apparatus. The device includes a keypad by which a personal numerical code can be entered. This code is the only manner by which the alarm of the device can be shut off once activated. The code can be changed only by a user knowing the previously-entered deactivation code.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1993
    Inventor: Edward T. Brady
  • Patent number: 5235314
    Abstract: A warning or alerting device for a manually operated, concrete finishing tool may provide a flashing light, a beeping signal or both when the tool is being operated. The device may be attached to the extended handle of the tool. Use of the warning device will help prevent injury to coworkers or bystanders from the long handle of the tool as the working end of the tool is drawn back toward the operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1993
    Inventor: John L. Whetzal, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5175528
    Abstract: A flashing safety warning light in which a superluminescent light-emitting diode (SLD) light source is driven by an oscillatory drive signal at a visually imperceptible but highly efficient operating frequency, the oscillatory drive signal preferably being a pulse signal of 1 to 5 KHz to cause the SLD to be illuminated and extinguished at the oscillatory drive signal frequency, such that extinction of the SLD is not visually perceptible. The oscillatory drive signal is in turn gated on and off in accordance with a gating signal at a low, highly visually perceptible frequency in the range of 3 to 12 Hz with a pulse duty cycle of between 10 to 60% in order to cause the SLD to be visually perceived as flashing on and off at the gating signal frequency in an attention-getting manner. An implementation of the flashing safety warning light for use as a bicycle safety flasher is described, and offers enhanced warning visibility with extended battery life.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1992
    Assignee: Grace Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert S. Choi, Kong C. Kwai, Choi Oong
  • Patent number: 5157374
    Abstract: An alarm buzzer produce an alarm sound from a sound-producing device installed in a hollow container in which an opening through which the sound is sent out is arranged not in the face opposite the sound-producing face of the device but in one or both of the back and side faces other than said face opposite said sound-producing face so that sound amplification is achieved through Helmholtz resonance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1992
    Inventor: Ikuo Suyama
  • Patent number: 5151678
    Abstract: The apparatus relates to safety belts having a flexible support member forming the body of the belt and an electroluminescent flexible strip extending substantially the length of the belt and exposed to one side of the belt which is activated by means of a power supply connected to the electroluminescent flexible strip. This safety belt has low power requirements whereby the user can wear the belt under low light conditions for extended periods of time and be assured of adequate visible recognition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1992
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Veltri, Joseph M. Souliere
  • Patent number: 5132659
    Abstract: A novel flashing light siren alarm which, when activated, provides a bright flashing strobe light and loud siren sound which attract attention. A flashing light siren and sound alarm which includes (a) a light emitting apparatus; (b) a sound emitting apparatus; (c) a battery adapted to power the light emitting apparatus and the sound emitting apparatus; and (d) a causing which carries the light and sound emitting apparatus, and the battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1992
    Inventor: Ching L. Kuo
  • Patent number: 5124683
    Abstract: An apparatus arranged for securement to a chair member or alternatively as a mobile unit mounted on wheels, wherein the organization includes an indicator bulb selectively operated through a switch and a counter, whereupon an individual providing indication of "win" in a bingo game tuns on a switch to illuminate the associated bulb with the counter arranged for indicating which game is a "winning" game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1992
    Inventor: Roberta M. Brunner
  • Patent number: 5122779
    Abstract: A light sequencer for a toy having a simple way for individually varying the on and off times of each stage of a chain or ring. Each stage has a light controlling amplifier/switch whose gain is individually controlled by a hysteresis element. When the voltage across the hysteresis element is below its set breakdown voltage, it non-conducts, thereby causing the amplifier/switch to have negative gain, and the controlled light is not lit. When the voltage across a hysteresis element equals or exceeds its set breakdown voltage, it `fires` into a highly-conductive state, causing the amplifier/switch to have very high gain, and the controlled light is lit. The hysteresis element remains in its conductive state until the voltage across it drops below recovery voltage level. Then it switches back to non-conductive state, causing the amplifier/switch to have negative gain, and the controlled light is not lit. The difference between breakdown or `firing` voltage and recovery voltage is the hysteresis factor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1992
    Inventors: Roger W. Lehmann, Michael I. Satten
  • Patent number: 5121096
    Abstract: A position location device that is self powered and worn or carried by a child, pet, or a person with impaired senses such as sight or hearing. The device is a stand alone device, in that it is totally self contained and requires absolutely no external inputs of power or data. Because the device is a stand alone and not dependent on transmitted signals or radiated data, the unit is not susceptible to unwanted transient radiated noise interference or atmospheric noise phenomenon. After an adjustable preset time delay triggers a visual and audio alarm, a monitoring person can easily locate the impaired person before any potential danger occurs. A small child or a person with impaired senses carrying this device is allowed to walk or play freely. If the child or person with impaired senses walks off or gets lost, the device will automatically trigger at the preset time which will alert the monitoring person as to the location of the person.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1992
    Inventors: Herbert A. Moore, Al L. Wilson
  • Patent number: 5121098
    Abstract: A multi-function car door closure warning sensor includes a main module secured to a car door adjacent to an edge thereof, and an auxiliary module secured to the car body and adjacent with the main module, when the car door is in a closed position. A battery, a first soft magnetic pole piece with an attached normally closed magnetic switch, a buzzer, two sets of L.E.D.'s, and an L.E.D. control circuit are disposed within the main module. A permanent magnet with an atached second soft magnetic pole piece are disposed within the auxiliary module. Whereby, when the door is properly closed, the first and second soft magnetic pole pieces are aligned and separated by a small gap. The permanent magnet induces a magnetic field in the first pole piece which causes the magnetic switch to open. When the car door is not properly closed, no magnetic field is induced in the first pole piece causing the magnetic switch to close, activating the buzzer and L.E.D. control circuit, which causes the two sets of L.E.D.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1992
    Inventor: Liang-Tsai Chen
  • Patent number: 5081568
    Abstract: A traffic police baton, comprising a light transmitting cylinder which has a corrugated inner wall covered with a layer of light dispersive film, a circuit board assembly fastened in said light transmitting cylinder which has a plurality of high light intensity of light emitting diodes connected together and longitudinally aligned, and a control circuit to control saidd high light intensity of light emitting diodes to flash in sequence according to predetermined setting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1992
    Inventors: Lu J. Dong, Chen C. Wang
  • Patent number: 5070436
    Abstract: To protect people who must be seen, to avoid their injury, when they are in areas where safety protection is needed, such as on or nearby roadways, highways, waterways, airports, etc., a signal vest is worn by them, which is made of durable bright colored materials, durable reflective materials, and equipped in front and back with flashing lights, controlled by self contained electrical circuits, including a replacable and/or rechargeable battery. The electrical circuits operate independently of one another, so any damage to one circuit, only eliminates some of the front and back flashing lights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1991
    Inventors: Richard M. Alexander, Woodbury Abbey, III
  • Patent number: 5063370
    Abstract: A hypodermic syringe needle detector consisting of a normally open circuit adapted to be closed when a hypodermic syringe needle penetrates the device and simultaneously makes electrical contact between two or more elctrically conductive surfaces. Closing the circuit energizes a sensory alarm such as an audio signal or light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1991
    Inventor: Steven C. Smith
  • Patent number: 5059952
    Abstract: A light assembly includes a light bulb, a socket, batteries, a novel water activated electrical switch, a novel manual override, a novel desiccant to keep the ambient air dry, and a case for housing all components. This invention includes four novel water-activated switching methods: (a) by tape that is made of water soluble material, (b) by adhesive that is water soluble, (c) by crystal that is also water soluble, and (d) by media that will absorb water and expand their volumes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1991
    Inventor: Samuel C. Wen
  • Patent number: 5034847
    Abstract: A portable light beacon for use on life rafts and the like that has a long life due to a flashing light allowing the battery to recharge and a water sensing switch that once wet remains on. The light beacon comprises a portable battery power source in a water proof container, a flashing light with watertight electrical connections between the flashing light and the power source, and a fluid sensing switch comprising a fluid absorbent composition positioned between two terminals with circuitry to activate the flashing light when an electrical conductive fluid has been absorbed by the fluid absorbent composition to provide an electrical path between the two terminals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1991
    Inventor: John E. Brain
  • Patent number: 5019798
    Abstract: A warning device that is removably affixed to overhead loads which are moved by an overhead crane. The warning device has a rotating beacon light and a horn, both activated by a switch and powered by internal batteries. The device is attached to steel loads with magnets or to non-metallic loads with straps and is activated whenever the load is raised and in motion. The device is removed from the when the load arrives at its destination load and is then stored by attaching the device to the crane hook with a safety cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1991
    Inventor: Wayne H. Pherigo, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5001455
    Abstract: A portable water-resistant device for signaling vehicles such as a taxi is formed of a lightweight, transparent plastic and is battery powered. The signaling device is provided with a first housing, a second housing movable relative to the first housing, the first housing containing a light source and a power source and reflective symbols affixed to the outer face of the first housing. The light source is selectively electrically connectable to a power source, such as a battery, which is activated when the second housing moves relative to the first housing and contact points extending from battery terminals and protruding through the first housing meet with contact points of the second housing. Additionally, in another embodiment the signaling device may be provided with an outer movable housing having a switch, an inner housing containing a light source and a power source electrically connected to the switch, and reflective symbols on the outer face of the inner housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1991
    Assignee: Maniolos/Starchevic
    Inventor: Jovanka Starchevich
  • Patent number: 4985813
    Abstract: An internally illuminated sphere 10 which will provide portable high intensity light suitable for emergency use, police use, traffic control or other purposes. It consists of a light source 21, a power source 27, and a control which may be internal or external and will provide continuous, intermittent or delayed operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 15, 1991
    Inventor: Gary W. Putman
  • Patent number: 4978948
    Abstract: A combined earthquake sensor and night light having a base with a bottom portion resting on a support surface subject to vibrations. A top portion of the base is provided with a reflective surface and a centrally mounted lamp. A transparent cylinder is mounted on the base member to suspend a multifaceted spherical crystal above the light source by means of an elastic helical spring to enable the spherical crystal to move in all directions. Vibrations generated by an earthquake are transmitted to the base member causing movement of the crystal giving a visual indication of the vibrations by light reflection and diffractio. In the static mode the unit serves as a decorative lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 18, 1990
    Inventor: Lynda S. Samen
  • Patent number: 4959637
    Abstract: An emergency signaling device adapted to attach to an existing flashlight is disclosed. The device provides audio, optical and radio frequency alarms when the device detects no movement for a period of time. The radio frequency alarm is coded so that a plurality of the devices may be used in conjunction with a receiver to form an emergency signaling system. The receiver decodes the signal and indicates which device has transmitted the alarm. The device uses the battery in the flashlight for power. A noxious gas detector may also be integrated into the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 25, 1990
    Assignee: National Safety Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard E. Woods, Guy Bonner, Jr., Jerry S. Smyth, Roger D. Felton