Plural (e.g., Concurrent Auxiliary) Single Indications (e.g., Light Flashes When Bell Rings) Patents (Class 340/326)
  • Patent number: 5883570
    Abstract: The invention is a decorative cover/actuator which can be used as a stand alone device or in combination with a door bell. The cover is pivotally mounted on a surface with an adjustable lever extending out the back of the cover. When the cover is pressed toward the wall, the push lever rings the door bell and actuates an electronic circuit inside the cover that can display lights, emit sounds, including music and voice, and cause movable objects on the cover to move.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1999
    Assignee: ED Ventions, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald W. Lusareta, Muffet S. Frische, Eric A. Frische
  • Patent number: 5880672
    Abstract: An emergency indicator system which comprises a telephone located within a building and a visual display unit. A facility electrically connected to the telephone is for activating the visual display unit, when a person dials 911 on the telephone during an emergency, so that the building can be quickly located, such as by an emergency rescue vehicle, the police, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1999
    Inventor: Edward Weaver
  • Patent number: 5867097
    Abstract: A remote-controlled safety control system includes: an information transceiver for checking and controlling disorders for safety control, a controller for receiving alarm signals received from the information transceiver, generating alarm data after analyzing the alarm signals and then generating an alarm generation control signal, and an alarm unit, which is remotely located, for receiving the alarm generation control signal from the controller and for generating an alarm. An alarm signal processing method for maintaining a remote-controlled safety monitoring system includes the steps of: analyzing the alarm signals generated from information transceiver to generated alarm data; and checking periodically related X.25 processors and upon system disorders, generating alarm data and generating an alarm by transmitting the alarm data serially to a remotely located alarm unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1999
    Assignee: SamSung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chun-Sul Jung, Chang-Su Ko
  • Patent number: 5859582
    Abstract: A personal security alarm device includes a flashlight having a main housing with a bulb and reflector, a battery compartment and an actuation switch. A sub-housing is pivotally mounted in an L-shaped cut out portion at the lower front end of the main housing. An audible alarm is mounted in the main housing and is energized by pulling a handle to extract a contact pin from the housing and close a pair of electrical contacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1999
    Assignee: John Manufacturing Limited
    Inventor: John Se-Kit Yuen
  • Patent number: 5828294
    Abstract: This invention relates to signaling systems of the type used by customers in a service facility, such as taverns, restaurants and stores, to alert service personnel that a specific customer desires service. One embodiment is limited to one or more local indicators used by customers to transmit signals for service to service personnel in the vicinity of the local indicators. Another embodiment uses local indicators and remote indicators. The local indicators have transmitters that transmit customers' signals for service to the remote indicators, that are equipped to alert service personnel anywhere on the premises that one or more specific customers desire service.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1998
    Inventor: Edward J. Shank
  • Patent number: 5825280
    Abstract: A portable safety light and audible signal apparatus for placement in proximity to a building exit, to guide one or more fire fighters and emergency personnel to the exit during conditions of intense smoke and heat. The portable safety light and audible signal apparatus has a housing for containing, an audible signal generator capable of generating at least three distinctive audible signals, a strobe light mounted upon the top portion of the housing; an inverted U-shaped handle mounted on opposing sides of the strobe light, at least one switch in electrical communication with the strobe light and the audible signal generator, and a portable power supply located within the housing, in electrical communication with the switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1998
    Inventors: Andrew Vito Merendini, John A. Oddo, Dennis A. Petosa
  • Patent number: 5798687
    Abstract: A warning system for a vehicle in which a control circuit is actuated to turn on selected exterior lights of the vehicle when the horn switch is actuated. The control circuit includes a relay that has a first contact connected to the battery, a second contact conductively connected to the first contact when the control circuit is actuated, and a plurality of unidirectionally conductive circuits, each connected in series between the second contact and selected electric lights and polarized to be conductive in the direction to conduct operating current from the battery to those lights to turn them on when the horn switch is actuated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1998
    Assignees: Terry Mijal, James Golembieski
    Inventors: Jerry D. Littlejohn, David F. Sears
  • Patent number: 5793280
    Abstract: A fire extinguisher bracket having a beacon for rendering the fire extinguisher conspicuous even in a darkened location. The bracket has structure for engaging the fire extinguisher and structure for mounting the bracket to an environmental surface. The beacon may be audible or visible or both, and may be arranged for constant or intermittent operation. A battery carried by the bracket powers the beacon. Optionally, beacon operation is switched to conserve battery power. Both manual and automatic switches may be included. Automatic switches, if provided, operate the beacon subject to a specified condition, such as detection of motion, thereby assuring likelihood of human presence, and detection of placement of a fire extinguisher within the bracket. Switches may be arranged for selective manual and automatic operation of the beacon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Inventor: William Hincher
  • Patent number: 5774039
    Abstract: A programmable doorbell controller for the operation of a doorbell. In a preferred embodiment, an audible announcement is recorded and stored by a doorbell control module using speech controller integrated circuitry. A self-contained remote module may interface with the doorbell control module by means of a wireless intercom system. When the doorbell actuation means is actuated, the remote module transmits a tone or signal that is received and detected by the doorbell control module. In response, the doorbell control module activates an internal speech controller circuitry to generate a playback of a stored audible announcement. Similarly, a visitor can easily respond by actuating a recording actuation means to activate a microphone for generating a responsive audible message that can be transmitted to the control module for encoding and storage. In this manner, the visitor's audible message is encoded, recorded and stored by the speech controller integrated circuitry of the control module for playback.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1998
    Inventor: Todd B. Housley
  • Patent number: 5751210
    Abstract: An audio/visual alarm system which includes multiple microprocessor-controlled alarm units connected in a common loop to a fire alarm control panel and an interface control circuit. The interface control circuit causes brief interruptions in power to the alarm units which synchronize operation of the alarm units and which can also be used as alarm control signals. The interface control circuit allows for control of both audio and visual alarms using only the single common loop connection between alarm units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1998
    Assignee: Wheelock Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph Kosich
  • Patent number: 5748081
    Abstract: A multi-functional anti-theft supervising assembly which has an overall configuration of a telephone, includes an anti-theft controller, a video monitoring circuit, a dialogue controlling circuit and an infrared detecting circuit. A monitoring window, screen and a handset are provided as well. The anti-theft controller is connected with a plurality of signal detecting circuits externally and an infrared detecting circuit, accordingly, the signal of anti-theft, flameproof, gas-leakage can be transmitted to the hoist computer located at the control center for suitable reaction. The video controlling circuit and screen can be connected with the camera disposed at the front door. The dialogue circuit is connected as well. The dialogue circuit and said handset are interconnected with said video controlling circuit. A door lock release circuit is connected as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1998
    Inventor: Edward Lin
  • Patent number: 5673016
    Abstract: A multifunction visitor information system for use in association with a building structure including an electrical system, intercom system, door bell system, security system and telephone system, the apparatus comprising: a central control unit formed in a planar configuration with an essentially hollow interior, the control unit being couplable to a desired mounting surface, the control unit including at least one light, a liquid crystal display panel including means for displaying a plurality of different messages for viewing by visitors to a building structure, the liquid crystal display panel and each light being electrically coupled to the electrical system of a building structure; and a plurality of function buttons being positioned within the display unit and operatively coupled to the liquid crystal display panel, the function buttons permitting users to send a plurality of different coded sequences to the panel thereby causing different messages to be displayed on the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 30, 1997
    Inventor: Daniel M. Lutes
  • Patent number: 5668526
    Abstract: A system for visually monitoring infants in rear-facing infant carriers in the rear seats of autos includes a front mirror mounted in the driver's forward field of vision, and a rear mirror mounted in a rear mirror assembly on the backrest of the auto's rear seat. Front and rear mirrors are adjustable so the driver can visually monitor the infant without taking her eyes from the road. The rear mirror assembly is made attractive to the infant by being in the likeness of a teddy bear, a clown, or an activity center with an assortment of devices to engage the infant's attention. The rear mirror assembly also includes pockets on either side, battery-powered lights, cassette tape players, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 16, 1997
    Inventor: Brenda M. Collins
  • Patent number: 5663714
    Abstract: An alarm system, comprising a smoke detector, a smoke detector output relay, a recording switch, a microphone, a digital recording and a play back device, a timer/pulse generator, a pulse counter, a number of speakers, an amplifier and an alarm tone generator, and the method of operation of the alarm system are presented. The smoke detector output relay activates a printed circuit that is powered off the smoke detector at two different points. The recording switch, when activated, allows a voice message to be recorded through the microphone on a digital recording and play back device. The timer/pulse generator starts when activated by the smoke detector output relay. The timer/pulse generator then sends timed pulses to the pulse counter that controls output of the digital recording and play back device, i.e. a verbal message, and of the alarm tone generator. The controlled output of the digital recording and play back device and of the alarm tone generator is then sent to the amplifier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 2, 1997
    Inventor: Eddie Lee Fray
  • Patent number: 5646590
    Abstract: An audible turn signal indicator system includes a turn signal selector for indicating an anticipated change in the direction of travel of a vehicle to a first direction and a second direction. The audible turn signal indicator system also includes audible directional indicator means for emitting first and second predetermined audible signals in response to an indication of an anticipated change in travel to the first and second directions, respectively. The first and second signals are audibly different in a predetermined manner such that the operator can determine the direction of the anticipated change in travel based upon the audible signals. In addition, the operator can determine which, if any, of the turn signals have been activated by monitoring the audibly different signals. The audible directional indicator means generally includes one or more speakers and an audible directional indicator controller for driving the speakers such that first and second audibly different signals are emitted thereby.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 8, 1997
    Inventor: Andrew E. Dembicks
  • Patent number: 5642092
    Abstract: An automatic evacuation assistance system, for assisting animals or people in existing a structure includes an event detector, such as a smoke detector for providing an event detection signal. The event detection signal is received by an exit control device which is coupled to an exit opening, for allowing the exit opening to open, providing an exit path to the outside of a structure. A sensory attractant transmitter transmits a sensory attractant in the form of a sound, smell, or visual signals to attract the person or animals to the exit path and exit opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 24, 1997
    Inventors: Grace Dunne, Kathleen M. Stanton
  • Patent number: 5602521
    Abstract: An electronic device with a display having a light source, such as an electroluminescent element, becomes easier to see and is reduced in size and power consumption when a single boosting element is used for selectively driving the light source and an additional element, such as an alarm. A sound generating circuit charges and discharges with a boosted voltage a charge boosting element, such as a piezoelectric element, in accordance with a control signal supplied by an alarm signal generating circuit. A light source disable circuit discriminates when a signal is being output by an alarm signal generating circuit, and disables a boosting circuit and a discharge circuit used for driving the light source, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1997
    Assignee: Seiko Instruments Inc.
    Inventor: Tomohiro Takahashi
  • Patent number: 5594409
    Abstract: The preferred embodiment of the invention comprises proximity actuated signalling apparatus, for use in restaurants and the like, permitting a customer to conveniently inform service personnel that service is desired. A local unit positioned within a convenient distance of the customer is actuated by the customer touching the unit to turn on a light emitting indicator. Optionally, a transmitter is actuated to generate a radiated signal which turns on one or more remote indicators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1997
    Inventor: Edward J. Shank
  • Patent number: 5587705
    Abstract: The battery powered smoke detector of the present invention is designed to provide an early warning of the presence of an environmental condition of fire or smoke to persons in remote areas of a building with respect to the location of the environmental condition. The smoke detector sensing the environmental condition emits an audible alarm of continuous tone, while emitting a frequency modulated radio signal directly to other like smoke detectors to activate their alarms in a manner indicative of the location of the smoke detector sensing the environmental alarm condition. Rechargeable light modules separate from the smoke detector are included that receive the frequency modulated radio signal from the smoke detector sensing the environmental alarm condition and illuminate paths of egress for the duration of the alarm condition or in case of 120VAC power failure. All components of the system are easy to install due to the modular design and conventional power sources.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1996
    Inventor: Gary J. Morris
  • Patent number: 5587704
    Abstract: Apparatus is described, plugged into an electrical wall out-let for energization but with a battery back-up, to sound a siren-type tone and to illuminate a flashing blue light when activated by a user by remote control through a transmitter worn by the user as a pendant or otherwise, with the flashing blue light being set in a prominent window at the user's location to alert and guide neighbors, quick-response assistance personnel and passersby, in general, respecting an emergency condition, and with an ON-OFF switch on the transmitter to deactivate the audio alarm while continuing to maintain the visual alarm, as where a silent warning is desired, or where a telephone connection can be had.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1996
    Inventor: Samuel T. Foster
  • Patent number: 5570083
    Abstract: A door bell system presents a normal door bell alarm with an alternative speech record/playback assembly. Upon depression of the exterior button extending through an exterior housing adjacent a building entrance the system with either energize the door bell or urge the visitor to leave a recorded message for subsequent playback. The door bell and/or record modes are selected by the user by a switch located within an interior housing mounted adjacent a building entrance. The housings include the appropriate components and wiring to provide the door bell and record/playback functions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1996
    Inventor: Lee A. Johnson
  • Patent number: 5565843
    Abstract: A visual display panel is mounted on the exterior surface of a power-operated garage door to display messages for viewing by occupants of a departing automobile after the garage door has closed. The display panel may be part of an integrated home automation system (IHAS) so that, in addition to pre-programmed messages, the operational status of household devices included in the IHAS are presented on the display panel. Actuation of the garage door operator to open the garage door can also cause the IHAS to direct changes in the operation of one or more of the included devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1996
    Assignee: Stanley Home Automation
    Inventor: Daniel V. Meyvis
  • Patent number: 5552762
    Abstract: A warning device for logically controlling headlights of a motor vehicle comprising a photocoupler which picks up signal voltage from a horn and triggers an astable multivibrator via a gate-controlled circuit to output a signal voltage in a predetermined time to a monostable multivibrator which outputs a continuous time-sequencing pulses to the encoding input terminal of a decoder via the gate-controlled circuit thereby causing the decoder to produce sequential output, the sequential output being divided by a multi-input gate-controlled circuit into two output voltages which are amplified by transistors to drive two relays connected with high beam and low beam thus making the high beam and low beam to give light alternately.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 3, 1996
    Inventor: Ching Y. Tsai
  • Patent number: 5539383
    Abstract: An electric alarm which includes a dual tone electronic chime, light emitting diode (LED) indicators, electronic circuitry, batteries, and with the exception of the AC adapter and the water sampler, all active and passive devices are housed in a small box to detect wet environments such as water that leaks from defective hot water heater tanks, flooded basements, storage spaces, room spaces below sea level, or any other spaces or tangible things not readily accessible or observable. It uses a water-activated-dielectric capacitor as a water sampler to absorb a small amount of water as the sample. And when it becomes wet or damp, the water dielectric signal controls the current required to energize the gate of the silicon control rectifier (SCR). In turn, the SCR turns "ON" a dual tone electronic chime and also turns "ON" a LED that simply glows. This action provides the audible and visual alert warning signals to indicate that the water does in fact exist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1996
    Inventor: Suey N. Chin
  • Patent number: 5521578
    Abstract: A combination address display device and doorbell control assembly are provided wherein the doorbell control assembly controls the supply of power to a backlighting assembly of the display device from existing wiring for the doorbell. The display device comprises a flat modular housing which pivots open to permit insertion of a display sandwich therein. The latter includes a sheet containing address numerals and the like a well as protective and appearance enhancing sheets. The backlighting assembly includes a reflector element having stepped openings therein in registration with the address numerals. The doorbell assembly includes a pair of lighted pushbuttons for controlling actuation of the doorbell and a lamp that directs a light beam below the assembly for use in finding one's keys or a similar purpose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1996
    Inventor: Ivan DelValle
  • Patent number: 5512881
    Abstract: Alarm apparatus which generates a repetitive sound wave having at least two pulses of predetermined frequencies within a predetermined interval of time. A resonator generates the clock frequency therefor. The resonator may have a low tolerance of less than about 0.1 percent so that at least two pulses may be detected by a receiver having a similarly low tolerance so that false triggering of the receiver by other transmitters or background noise may be prevented. A plug is inserted into the alarm housing to maintain circuitry for initiating operation thereof open. Pulling of the plug from the housing allows the circuitry to close to initiate operation of the alarm. A push button is provided on the end of the plug to close the circuitry for initiating operation of the alarm while the plug is inserted into the apparatus. Once the alarm has been initiated, the circuitry is such that the alarm cannot be inactivated except by removal of the internal power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1996
    Assignees: Alertcall, Inc., MKM Electronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Kashyap Majmudar
  • Patent number: 5477205
    Abstract: An alarm system incorporates a three-position wall switch which replaces a conventional two position switch, connected in circuit with a conventional exterior light fixture. The conventional light bulb in the exterior fixture is replaced by an adapter to which is connected an alarm unit and which receives the exterior light bulb. The three-position switch operates the light bulb at one half normal intensity in its normal mode and in its alarm position illuminates the bulb at its rated intensity and at the same time activates the alarm unit. The alarm may include a strobe light and horn for providing a visual and audible alarm. The alarm unit fits within the exterior light fixture and may include an auxiliary switch to allow it to be enabled or disabled as desired, while allowing the light bulb to provide two levels of brightness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 19, 1995
    Inventor: Lawrence J. Burns
  • Patent number: 5477208
    Abstract: An emergency flasher circuit for use with motor vehicles comprising an emergency switch, a signal generator for generating a signal having a frequency of approximately 10 Hz, and logic circuitry for selectively applying the signal to the headlight(s), and/or to one or both of the left and right turn indicator lights, for alerting other drivers to the presence of the motor vehicle. Alternatively, an optical shutter may be connected to the logic circuitry, and the headlight(s) or one or both of the left and right turn indicator lights for causing light generated by the headlight(s) and/or the turn indicator lights to flash at approximately 10 Hz upon activation of the horn switch, for alerting other drivers to the presence of the motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 19, 1995
    Inventors: Steven Henderson, David Kernaghan
  • Patent number: 5463380
    Abstract: A paging receiver having alerting means implemented as a speaker and a light emitting diode (LED). The paging receiver has a decoder for outputting a pair of periodically varying drive signals on determining that a call meant for the receiver has been received, a speaker drive for causing a speaker to sound in the pattern of either one of two drive pattern signals, and an LED driver for turning on the LED in the other pattern. The drive periods of the two drive pattern signals are arranged alternately with each other and such that they do not overlap each other, whereby the luminance of the LED is maintained at a sufficiently high level even when a battery powering the paging receiver reaches the last stage of its service life.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 31, 1995
    Assignee: NEC Corporation
    Inventor: Masahiro Matai
  • Patent number: 5450063
    Abstract: The invention in a bird avert system is for installation at a polluted pond, in or around a wet lands area, or the like, to discourage or frighten away birds and includes microwave, radar, or other signal generation and receiving arrangements for forming an electronic net a distance above the pond or ground level, that is triggered by passage therethrough of a bird. On sensing a bird presence in the electronic net, operation of alarm devices for frightening away the bird is commanded. The alarm devices are operated both on a sensing of a bird passage through the electronic net and at timed intervals, and the alarm devices can include high intensity and/or strobe lights, that can be colored or filtered appropriately to present primary colors as a bird is sensitive to, speakers for broadcasting sounds such as human voices, screeching, guns firing, and the like, as would frighten a bird, and floating platforms maintained under usual bird flight paths that may include moving human and predator bird replicas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 12, 1995
    Assignee: Peregrine, Inc.
    Inventors: Rodney R. Peterson, Carl Johansson
  • Patent number: 5447436
    Abstract: To simulate the output of a laser to a Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement ystem (MILES), an electronic circuit having a PLL subcircuit and a microprocessor is used to detect an acoustic signal having a predetermined frequency and pulse rate. Upon detection of the correct acoustic signal, a prestored universal kill code is provided to an inductive loop magnetically coupled to the antenna coil of a harness to which the MILES is integrated. The thus received inductive signal is recognized by the MILES which in turn outputs an audio alarm to indicate that a kill has occurred.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 5, 1995
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Carl J. Campagnuolo, Gene Ferguson
  • Patent number: 5446439
    Abstract: An emergency lighting controller includes a first circuit responsive to an alarm signal or warning signal. The first circuit accepts positive or negative polarity input signals and detects the presence or absence of a signal in order to produce an output signal clearing a monostable timer circuit. The monostable timer circuit produces a predetermined duration signal upon receiving an alarm signal. In accordance with the predetermined duration signal produced by the monostable timer circuit, an astable timer or oscillator circuit activates and deactivates an output control circuit in accordance with the frequency and duty cycle settings of the astable timer circuit. The output control circuit switches power on and off to a relay or a lighting circuit to provide a visual indicator of an emergency state that may require evacuation of the premises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1995
    Assignee: Smartronics, Inc.
    Inventors: John C. Kramer, Robert O. Melvin
  • Patent number: 5438313
    Abstract: An emergency flasher circuit for use with motor vehicles comprising an emergency switch, a signal generator for generating a signal having a frequency of approximately 10 Hz, and logic circuitry for selectively applying the signal to the headlight(s), and/or to one or both of the left and right turn indicator lights, for alerting other drivers to the presence of the motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 1, 1995
    Inventors: Steven Henderson, David Kernaghan
  • Patent number: 5402108
    Abstract: A driver alerting device plugs into a vehicle cigarette lighter and, after actuation of a reset button, triggers a flashing red warning light after a random time period. If the driver does not actuate the reset button within a predetermined time after the light begins flashing, a horn will beep.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 28, 1995
    Assignee: Just Right, Inc.
    Inventors: Aaron S. Tabin, Gary P. Watts
  • Patent number: 5373281
    Abstract: A warning module for use with a motor vehicle having multiple sensor inputs and multiple sensor outputs. The inputs are coupled to sensing circuits for monitoring a condition such as engine temperature. The outputs are coupled to one or more light bulbs or other visual indicators which are activated at a lamp flash frequency. A variable frequency oscillator activates an audible output device, preferably a piezo-electric buzzer. The light output levels are diminished for nighttime use. A plastic housing supports a piezo-electric transducer and reverberation plate and achieves a high sound output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 13, 1994
    Assignee: Nartron Corporation
    Inventors: Christian J. Andersen, David W. Bull
  • Patent number: 5371489
    Abstract: An alerting apparatus includes a pair of separate first and second lights capable of providing respective illuminations that are different from one another, an electrical power supply cord connected to the first and second lights for providing a supply of electrical power to activate the lights, and a motion detector connected to the electrical power supply cord and the first and second lights for activating the first and second lights for predetermined times in response to sensing motion in a predetermined area. The first light can provide a constant white illumination, while the second light can provide a flashing red illumination. Also, an alarm can be connected to the motion detector and the electrical power supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 6, 1994
    Inventors: Lee J. Carroll, Diana D. Harahan
  • Patent number: 5355116
    Abstract: A strobe alarm circuit includes a voltage source circuit which has a capacitor connected across its output terminals. The voltage source circuit is connected to a flash circuit which includes a flashtube shunted by a trigger circuit. The trigger circuit causes the flashtube to flash when the voltage across the voltage source circuit capacitor reaches a predetermined threshold firing voltage. A resistor divider network is employed in the trigger circuit to ensure that the flashtube is triggered at virtually the same instant as the voltage across the capacitor exceeds the trigger threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 11, 1994
    Assignee: Wheelock
    Inventors: Ed Applegate, Joseph Kosich, John W. Curran
  • Patent number: 5311130
    Abstract: A system for detecting the presence of a magnetic field emanating from a video display terminal (VDT) in which a current induced through a sensing element is first amplified by a high gain amplifier stage having a very broad low band frequency response curve then rectified by a precision rectifier to convert the AC signal induced through the sensing element to DC current. The DC current is used as one input to a comparator, the other input being set by means of a potentiometer to provide flexibility in setting a threshold input voltage differential representative of a harmful magnetic field radiation level. The output of the threshold comparator triggers a driver which is connected to a battery powered solenoid. The solenoid actuates an indicator flag in the presence of a magnetic field which exceeds the threshold magnetic radiation level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 10, 1994
    Assignee: Rad Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Bill, Enrique Rodriguez
  • Patent number: 5292254
    Abstract: A method for a minefield simulation includes a number of troops and vehicles each including a player detection device or vehicle detection device respectively. The player detection devices and vehicle detection devices determine and transmit their respective locations to a central computer. The central computer or player determines whether the player is within an activation radius of a mine in the minefield. The central computer or player has established a bit map of the minefield with indications of the exact placement of the mines within the minefield. If a player (troop or vehicle) is within the activation radius of a mine, the central computer or player records the identity of the expended mine in the minefield bit map by changing its indication from active to inactive. Either central computer or the player detection device may determine the effects of the expended mine upon the troop or vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 8, 1994
    Assignee: Motorola, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph R. Miller, Craig T. Griffin
  • Patent number: 5264826
    Abstract: An emergency flasher circuit for use with motorcycles and bicycles comprising an emergency switch, a signal generator for generating a signal having a frequency of approximately 10 Hz, and logic circuitry for selectively applying the signal to one or both of the left and right turn indicator lights and a headlight of a motorcycle or bicycle, for alerting drivers of motor vehicles to the presence of the motorcycle or bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1993
    Inventors: Steven Henderson, David Kernaghan
  • Patent number: 5245312
    Abstract: A self-timer operation informing device, particularly one having an auditory and a visual display device is disclosed. In the case of such information device, since both display devices are always driven in order to carry out the display operation, a problem exists in that the power consumption for the self-timer operation display is large. On the other hand, since it is difficult to confirm the display state by the visual display when the brightness is high, in such cases the auditory display is significant. In other words, the visual display does not have significance under high brightness conditions. A self-timer operation informing device, therefore, selects the driving of the visual or the auditory display device in accordance with the brightness information so as to prevent unnecessary display in order to save the power consumption.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1986
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1993
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Masayoshi Kiuchi, Hiroyasu Murakami
  • Patent number: 5241307
    Abstract: Sound signaling and optical signaling at a crosswalk are both activated by a single push button. An activation of optical signaling such as green and red figurines is immediate, whereas the transmission of a sound message authorizing or forbidding a crossing is activated only when the pedestrian pushes the button for a predetermined time. The generation device for sound signals is controlled by a microprocessor including logic and analog inputs and outputs, the messages being stored in digital form and transmitted according to the ADPCM method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1993
    Assignee: Societe d'Etudes et de Fabrication Electronique et Radioelectrique-S.E.F. E.R.
    Inventors: Gerard Bidault, Dominique Leveque
  • 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: 5229753
    Abstract: An indicating system for a washing device having has at least one rack for holding articles during the washing of same and a door for gaining access to the articles. The indicating system includes a detector for sensing whether or not the rack holds articles and logic circuits responsive to the detector and to the operating state of the washer for providing an indication that the articles have been cleaned when a predetermined operating state is detected and for providing an indication that any articles in the washer are not clean after the detector senses that the articles in the rack were removed from the at least one rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1993
    Inventors: Richard P. Berg, Floyd L. Berg
  • Patent number: 5220309
    Abstract: Disclosed is an alarm device designed to be mounted in pairs on the top of the uprights of a goalpost. Each alarm device includes a sound detector and audible and visual alarms activated responsive to sensing of crowd noise above a predetermined level. The audible and visual alarms may be activated simultaneously or sequentially responsive to different levels of sound pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1993
    Inventor: George W. Carder, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5210520
    Abstract: A programmable doorbell system includes a battery-powered doorbell control for connection in series with an existing doorbell pushbutton in a residential doorbell circuit. In a first embodiment, the doorbell control has a visual LCD display which can display one of a plurality of messages. A manual switching mechanism is provided for selecting one of the messages for display. By utilizing an internal time of day clock, the residence occupant can program the control for a time interval during which the normal doorbell is disconnected from the doorbell switch. During this time interval, the doorbell control sounds a tone alarm and displays the selected message if the doorbell switch is pressed by a visitor. A second embodiment is disclosed which utilizes a digital record/playback circuit to record an audible announcement by the occupant and store the recorded announcement as digital signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1993
    Inventor: Todd B. Housley
  • Patent number: 5207579
    Abstract: An acoustic training mine simulator system for use with the pre-existing tiple Integrated Laser Engagement System (MILES). The MILES, located on a target, responds to the acoustic output of said mine simulator upon simulated detonation. The MILES acoustic detection circuitry momentarily disconnects the MILES power supply from the rest of the MILES circuit, causing the MILES to generate an audible alarm indicating a target has been hit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1993
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: Carl J. Campagnuolo
  • Patent number: 5202660
    Abstract: A portable visual signalling device consists of a plurality of different colored lights and a plurality of switches in a housing. Each light may correspond to a specific designation. The device is powered by a self contained rechargeable battery and recharging circuitry. A switch can be flipped to activate a colored light and provide a visible message. It does not have to be professionally installed. The device can be moved easily from place to place if needed. One or more lights can be activated by remote control. A buzzer may also be activated with one of the lights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 13, 1993
    Inventor: Randall L. Hartman
  • Patent number: 5181019
    Abstract: A sound generating device which increases the effectiveness of the sound generated by mechanically coupling a weight to a piezoelectric element. This sound generating device may find particular application in a combination backup light and sound generating device utilized in an automotive vehicle. Also, circuitry for driving a piezoelectric element at its resonant frequency when the driving signal is applied to the piezoelectric element across a step-up transformer. The circuitry features a feedback signal which detects the frequency at which the piezoelectric element is vibrating. This feedback signal is then subjected to low-pass and high-pass filtering to remove any phase shifts resulting from applying the driving signal across the step-up transformer. This filtered feedback signal is then utilized to control the driving signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1993
    Assignee: Designtech International, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Gottlieb, Tom Roche
  • Patent number: 5173681
    Abstract: A visual warning system for a locomotive includes a light signal unit mounted on the body of a locomotive which is connected to a control module which provides for both manual and automatic energization of the lights. In the automatic mode, the lights are enabled at or above a predetermined speed and disabled when the locomotive is below the given speed. The light energization works in conjunction with other warning systems, particularly a locomotive horn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1992
    Assignee: Quantum Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: James F. Schockley, Mark E. Kane