Plural (e.g., Concurrent Auxiliary) Single Indications (e.g., Light Flashes When Bell Rings) Patents (Class 340/326)
  • Patent number: 5155470
    Abstract: A rural mailbox includes a housing mounted medially to an upper surface of the mailbox, wherein the housing includes a receiver operative through a transmitter to effect actuation of an elongate illumination bulb extending substantially coextensively of the housing, with the housing including indicia openings directed through side walls of the housing to effect signaling and enhanced recognition of the mailbox during emergency situations. The organization may optionally include a further housing, with a door plate pivotally mounted therethrough, wherein a further receiver cooperative with a solenoid rod effects selective opening of the door plate and directing of an illumination balloon member therethrough to enhance operative recognition of the mailbox and associated dwelling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1992
    Inventor: Charles D. Tuttle
  • Patent number: 5151679
    Abstract: A sign comprising at least one light pipe, each light pipe made of light-transmitting material, said at least one light pipe arranged to form a predetermined message or design, each light pipe having at least two ends and carrying at least one light source proximate at least one end, each light source directed towards another end of the light pipe in the direction of extension of the light pipe, a portion of the outer surface of each light pipe being translucent permitting light to exit therefrom, the sign further carrying electrical circuit means for energizing each light source, and means for mounting the at least one light pipe to form the predetermined message or design; whereby energizing of each light source causes light to be transmitted in each light pipe, light therefrom emerging through the translucent outer surface of each light pipe for the display of the predetermined message or design.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1992
    Assignee: Frederick Dimmick
    Inventor: Frederick Dimmick
  • 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: 5130693
    Abstract: A battery-powered, electro-mechanical device which automatically generates sound-effects and flashing lights depending on its position or tilt is disclosed. The device, housed in a rigid encasement, consists of a position/tilt actuator and sensor, an electronic circuit board, a sound-effects generator, an amplifier, a speaker, LED lamps and driver. The device can be attached to the underside of a skateboard between the forward and rearward trucks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1992
    Inventor: Henri J. Gigandet
  • 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: 5103204
    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: August 14, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1992
    Inventor: Randall L. Hartman
  • Patent number: 5093212
    Abstract: A sealing apparatus supplies one or more activating gases needed to produce a current generating chemical reaction in an air breathing battery, the supply of one or more activating gases being proportionally controlled to coincide with differing current loads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1992
    Assignee: Motorola, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert D. Lloyd, Michael J. DeLuca, Tuan Nguyen
  • Patent number: 5075671
    Abstract: A portable, personal alarm system (A) which incorporates a loud audio alert (19, 9/10) that, when engaged, is unable to be removed from the user, or terminated without the cooperation thereof. The preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises a small, hand-held alarm system having a strap (5) with a locking mechanism for securely affixing the system to the user, compressed gas containment or electrical power for providing a loud audio horn alert, a locator light (4) for signalling the location of the user in dark areas, and a mechanism for selectively locking the horn alert in the "on" operating position which cannot be reactivated without unlocking the strap, which uses a precoded combination type lock. In use the push button (3) end (24) is placed within the palm so that the push button lies right under the fingers, with the main body (1) extending up along side of the inner side of the wrist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1991
    Inventor: Robert Livingston, III
  • Patent number: 5051728
    Abstract: This invention relates to a music poster which includes a sound generating system disposed in a rectangular case combined with a poster. A PC board assembly includes an insulating board and a conductive minute hand mounted thereon, and is coupled externally to a sound generator and an LED assembly. Responsive to the minute hand passing through a sound operative interval, a variety of musical sounds are generated through the sound generator, and the LED assembly is operative to produce a flashing light effect, simultaneously. When the minute hand reaches and passes through a non-effective interval, the audio-visual operation is stopped immediately. As an alternate form, the PC board assembly is replaced by a photoelectric or acoustic sensor which controls the operation of the sound generator and the LED assembly, so as to let the sound generator and the LED assembly begin to operate when people are detected as passing by the poster, by a change in light levels, or sound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 24, 1991
    Inventor: Frank Y. Wang
  • Patent number: 5047747
    Abstract: A combination back-up light and sound emitting device includes a housing formed by a reflector and a light transmitting cover. A light bulb is mounted within the reflector, as is a piezo electric speaker. Both the light bulb and the speaker are electrically connected to an electrical socket in the reflector, into which an electrical plug from the vehicle may be fitted. Therefore, once the housing is mounted to a vehicle, electrical connection for both the light bulb and the sound emitting device can be achieved by the single operation of inserting the electrical plug into the socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 10, 1991
    Assignee: Designtech International, Inc
    Inventor: Mark Gottlieb
  • Patent number: 5028911
    Abstract: A portable light includes a light, a battery, and a switch having an "on" position and an "off" position. The switch in the "off" position prevents the light from being illuminated and the switch in the "on" position directly connects the light to the battery to cause the light to be illuminated. The switch includes a first interdigitating member. A bracket for mounting the portable light includes a second interdigitating member in interconnecting relationship with the first interdigitating member on the switch. The interconnecting relationship between the interdigitating member moves the switch to the "on" position when the light is removed from the bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 2, 1991
    Assignee: Black & Decker, Inc.
    Inventors: David J. Wanat, Robert Osit
  • 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: 4967177
    Abstract: An audiovisual signaling device includes in electrical connection: (a) an auditory output portion which produces an auditory output and a corresponding low voltage oscillatory signal; (b) a converter portion which is responsive to and converts the low voltage oscillatory signal to a repetitively produced corresponding high voltage intermittent spike signal; (c) a visual output portion which produces a visual output; and (d) a portion responsive to the high voltage intermittent spike signal to repetitively activate the visual output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 30, 1990
    Assignee: Wheelock, Inc.
    Inventor: Luy B. Nguyen
  • 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
  • Patent number: 4953220
    Abstract: A mobile speaker system including a speaker unit mounted in a speaker box, a plurality of light sources provided inside the speaker box for irradiating the illumination panel, and a switching circuit for controlling the light sources. The light sources emit light of a plurality of colors and are controlled by the switching circuit so as to be selectively turned on to irradiate the illumination panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 28, 1990
    Assignee: Pioneer Electronic Corporation
    Inventors: Fumio Murayama, Tomiaki Ando, Chuichi Endo
  • Patent number: 4931780
    Abstract: Lighted house numbers at night aid in the locating of an address in a non-emergency mode and becomes an alarm device including a control unit connected to a telephone within a dwelling to detect dialling of a 911 signal. A housing is mounted exteriorly of the dwelling and includes audible and visual alarms operatively connected for activation upon detection of a 911 signal by the control unit. The remote alarm unit includes indicia illuminated for identifying an address at night when operating in a non-emergency mode and directing rescue personnel to the dwelling after a dwelling occupant has dialled 911 and activates an emergency strobe light and audible alarm mode illuminating the general vicinity of the dwelling from a distance and ultimately pinpointing the exact location of the emergency 911 caller. The visual and audible alarms in the remote unit are connected through a rectifier and transformer to an AC power source within the dwelling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 5, 1990
    Inventors: David G. LaMont, Madeline A. LaMont, Richard T. Donnell
  • Patent number: 4904982
    Abstract: A visual and audible warning device has a piezoelectric element operable to cause vibrations which are transmitted through a light transmitting member, and a light emitting element which upon actuation causes a visual warning to be transmitted through the light transmitting member. The visual and audible warnings transmitted by the light transmitting member are intended to attract the attention of the operator of a vehicle, such as a boat, above the sound of the engine or other noise. The device has circuit means coupled with the piezoelectric element and the light emitting element for causing a predetermined electrical signal to be applied to the piezoelectric element and causing energization of the light emitting element upon actuation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 27, 1990
    Assignee: Outboard Marine Corporation
    Inventors: M. Jeremy Lieb, Paul T. Ng
  • Patent number: 4903007
    Abstract: A combination back-up light and sound emitting device for use with an automobile includes a housing having a base at one end and a socket at the other end. A light bulb is mounted in the socket of the housing and a sound emitting device is also mounted in the housing. Bayonet type connectors are formed on the base of the housing and are electrically connected to the light bult and sound emitting device. The bayonet type connectors are used for mechanically connecting the housing to the back-up light socket of a vehicle tail light assembly, so that installation of the combination back-up light and sound emitting device can be accomplished simply by inserting the base into the back-up light socket and turning so as to secure the bayonet type connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1990
    Assignee: Design Tech International, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark Gottlieb
  • Patent number: 4881058
    Abstract: A combination audio and visual alarm system for selectively generating either audible, or visual, or combined audible and visual alarm signals, including a sound transducer device having a blocking capacitor connected thereto, a polarity-responsive electrical lamp, and a two-conductor circuit connected with the sound transducer device and with the lamp. In addition, there is a source of d. c. and a source of audio signals. A switch connects the two-conductor circuit to either the d.c. source or the audio source, thereby to enable simultaneous operation of the sound transducer and the lamp upon energization of the circuit by the source of audio, or to enable sole operation of the lamp when the circuit is energized by d.c.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1988
    Date of Patent: November 14, 1989
    Assignee: Audiosone, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert W. Berry, III
  • Patent number: 4879542
    Abstract: An alarm system to keep an aircraft pilot or a vehicle operator alert utilizes a first timer to activate visual alarm. The first timer is reset by actuation of the aircraft communications press-to-talk button. If the pilot fails to reset the first timer within a predetermined time, a second timer triggers an audio alarm. Once the audio alarm is triggered, it remains triggered and not resettable for a predetermined period of time. During normal operation of an aircraft during landings and takeoffs, the communications press-to-talk button is actuated as part of normal cockpit operations at intervals shorter than the time for the first timer to complete its timing cycle. Accordingly, an alarm is not generated during such landings and takeoffs, but is effective during cruise flight when the danger of drowsiness is greatest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1988
    Date of Patent: November 7, 1989
    Inventor: Adrian C. Elsey
  • Patent number: 4868540
    Abstract: A programmable doorbell system includes a solid state battery powered doorbell controller for connection to existing doorbell circuitry of a house, three segment display, doorbell control circuit, tone generator, control switches, and power source. The programmable controller includes a clock, memory, bell enable control circuit and display control circuit. The three segment LCD display includes a segment for continously displaying the name of the occupant, and two segments for displaying a selected doorbell answering type message. The doorbell control circuit connects the doorbell to the existing doorbell power circuit. The tone generator provides an audible sound as a message attention getter. The control switches include a manual on/off switch connected to the doorbell enable circuit for overriding the automatic mode of operation, and a mode and a change switch connected to the display control circuit for entering program parameters for the programmable controller. The clock provides the time of day.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1987
    Date of Patent: September 19, 1989
    Inventor: Todd B. Housley
  • Patent number: 4853678
    Abstract: An advertising device for use in retail outlets, including a passive infra-red sensing system, a sign bearing a message, and signalling means by which the attention of persons in the vicinity can be attracted, wherein the presence of persons in the vicinity may be detected by the sensing means and said signalling means may be activated to attract attention to the sign.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 1, 1989
    Inventors: Chester O. Bishop, Jr., Malcolm I. Dennis, Peter S. Riley, Christopher C. Richardson, Vincent P. Shaw
  • Patent number: 4851813
    Abstract: A combination back-up light and sound emitting device for use with an automobile includes a housing having a base at one end and a socket at the other end. A light bulb is mounted in the socket of the housing and a sound emitting device is also mounted in the housing. Bayonet type connectors are formed on the base of the housing and are electrically connected to the light bulb and sound emitting device. The bayonet type connectors are used for mechanically connecting the housing to the back-up light socket of a vehicle tail light assembly, so that installation of the combination back-up light and sound emitting device can be accomplished simply by inserting the base into the back-up light socket and turning so as to secure the bayonet type connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 25, 1989
    Assignee: Design Tech International, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark Gottlieb
  • Patent number: 4851811
    Abstract: A communication device for entries to buildings with several apartments including a support in one piece with the outside facade of the building having a transparent body formed by a plate of bulletproof glass which is entirely smooth and is provided with a perimeter larger than the perimeter of an opening made in a metallic frame, a plate covered by the transparent body, and having screens for visualizing and displaying permanent and temporary information, formed of a plate of liquid crystals comprising visualization and displaying screens entirely covered by the transparent body, an outside loudspeaker, at least one bell or other device for translating an impulse into sound or other indicia or signals with a place for the name, at least one inside loudspeacker fitted with a contactor, connectors and selectors formed by a control and selection element with a memory connected to the different screens, the visualization and display screens for the permanent and temporary information being acted on by the bell
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 1987
    Date of Patent: July 25, 1989
    Inventors: Xavier Vallat, Pierre Renaud
  • Patent number: 4847589
    Abstract: An emergency signal sending apparatus for emitting a preset sequence of visual and auditory signals. The apparatus can be manually or automatically switched so as to indicate the nature of assistance required by the signal sender. The signal sending apparatus can be equipped with a sudden or rollover motion sensing automatic switching device so that the preset signalling sequences will be initiated regardless of operator input. The signal sending apparatus includes an auditory signalling unit so that signalling can be successfully accomplished even if the sending apparatus is obscured from view.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 11, 1989
    Inventor: Hugh L. Dobbins
  • Patent number: 4839630
    Abstract: In a mobile home park having a source of a.c. house current, an emergency signal system for individual mobile homes includes a master unit including a step-down transformer electrically connected to the house current, an alarm circuit electrically connected to the transformer and including a high intensity flashing alarm lamp and an electrically operated horn, and a switch mounted on a box housing the transformer and much of the circuitry, the box being portable and positioned for easy accessibility. Lamps, mounted on the box, are provided to indicate that the transformer is receiving current, to illuminate the switch, and to indicate when the alarm has been activated. The flashing alarm lamp and horn are mounted on the outside of the mobile home. A second switch, hard wired into the alarm circuit, is mounted on the end of a long extension cord, whereby the alarm can be actuated from a place remote from the box as well as at the box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 13, 1989
    Inventor: Robert A. Miller
  • Patent number: 4742328
    Abstract: An alarm device capable of producing an audible as well as a visual alarm is disclosed. The alarm device comprises a gong, a DC motor of a commutator type and a hammer operatively connected to an output shaft of the motor for striking the gong. The alarm device further comprises a high-voltage generating circuit connected to the motor, a flash tube and an exciter circuit for the tube. When a DC power is supplied to the motor to strike the gong by the hammer, the high-voltage circuit generates a high voltage in accordance with a square-wave current which flows through the motor. The exciter circuit is energized by the high voltage and excites the flash tube to thereby produce flashes of light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1986
    Date of Patent: May 3, 1988
    Assignee: Kobishi Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tatsuya Arai, Tadashi Ishii, Hikoji Iwasaki
  • Patent number: 4642477
    Abstract: An alarm actuated emergency light signalling circuit to replace the usual wall mounted light switch. The new switch circuit fits within the electrical wall box and has the external appearance and manual operation of an ordinary light switch. When triggered by an alarm system, the new light signalling circuit overrides the circuit breaking function of the light switch and causes the lighting controlled by the switch to flash intermittently. The flashing of the lighting occurs regardless of the initial state of the light switch, whether on or off. The circuit includes a low voltage portion driven by the alarm and including sensing and timing circuitry. The low voltage circuit does not require or use any electric power when not actuated by the alarm. The alternating current power circuit for the lighting is operable in the conventional on/off fashion unless actuated by the alarm and low voltage circuit. Thus, there is no additional alarm position for the switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1985
    Date of Patent: February 10, 1987
    Inventors: Edmund S. Grzanowski, Jr., Philip J. Glengary
  • Patent number: 4631517
    Abstract: A frequency-matched signal device for persons with impaired hearing, including an activating member (1,2,3), a signal generator (4) activated thereby for producing an electrical signal with a fundamental frequency which is within the range of audibility of a person having a normal sense of hearing, and an amplifier (10) having a loudspeaker (6) connected after it for amplifying the signal into an acoustic signal. A first device (P1) permits an optional setting of the fundamental frequency of the signal generator; a second device (P3, R1; 13,14,15) permits an optional setting of the signal generator so that it will deliver at least one additional electrical signal of at least one second frequency which is optionally adjustable and related to the fundamental frequency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 1980
    Date of Patent: December 23, 1986
    Inventor: Kenth J. Ajland
  • Patent number: 4613103
    Abstract: A model railroad crossing bell and flasher employs spaced photocell detectors along the model railroad track. A comparator receives the photocell detector output signals and upon detecting a train shadow provides power to a first oscillator which actuates a pair of light emitting diodes in alternate sequence. Simultaneously, the first oscillator provides power to a second oscillator of a different frequency than the first oscillator. The second oscillator attenuates the first oscillator output signal to create a ringing sound through a loud speaker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1982
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1986
    Assignee: David B. Lellinger
    Inventor: Benjamin Waranowitz
  • Patent number: 4559517
    Abstract: A warning system to be mounted on the front exterior of a school bus to provide two signals to the passengers. One signal is a flashing red light accompanied by an intermittent horn and the second is a steady green light both of which can be seen and heard by children boarding or leaving the bus on both sides of the street to tell them whether it is unsafe or safe to cross the road. This warning system is controlled by the driver allowing him to direct the children safely across the street.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1983
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1985
    Inventor: Raymond A. Rahn
  • Patent number: 4523193
    Abstract: A remote-controlled doorbell adapted for connection across the existing doorbell in a building having a wired doorbell system. A transmitter for generating an over-the-air radio signal is coupled across the wired doorbell so that the transmitter will be actuated in response to current flowing through the wired doorbell. A remote receiver coupled to sound producing means receives the over-the-air radio signal and actuates the sound producing means when the existing doorbell is energized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1983
    Date of Patent: June 11, 1985
    Inventors: Samuel H. Levinson, Jack R. Caldicott
  • Patent number: 4518946
    Abstract: An alarm device comprises a bell alarm 12 and a flashing light warning means 11, both encased in a housing 13 formed of translucent material. The device of the invention incorporates both an audible and visual alarm means in a single device and electrical circuit means are provided whereby the audible alarm may be turned off after a preselected time period and the visual warning means then comes into operation. Alternatively, both the audible alarm and the visual warning alarm can both operate together initially and then, after a preselected time, the audible alarm is turned off, leaving the visual warning means in operation.The arrangement of the invention is substantially maintenance free and vandal-proof and the translucent housing permits the visual warning means to be seen therethrough, without disclosing the workings of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1985
    Assignee: CQR Security Systems Limited
    Inventor: Dennis R. Solomon
  • Patent number: 4499453
    Abstract: A combined audio and visual signal unit with the audio and visual components actuated alternately and powered over a single cable pair in such a manner that only one of the audio and visual components is drawing power from the power supply at any given instant. Thus, the power supply is never called upon to provide more energy than that drawn by the one of the components having the greater power requirement. This is particularly advantageous when several combined audio and visual signal units are coupled in parallel on one cable pair. Typically, the signal unit may comprise a horn and a strobe light for a fire alarm signalling system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1984
    Date of Patent: February 12, 1985
    Assignee: General Signal Corporation
    Inventor: Robert W. Right
  • Patent number: 4417236
    Abstract: An overload detecting and alarm device for hydraulic jack comprises an electronic alarm device and a pressure sensitive switch member connected with the electronic alarm device. The pressure sensitive switch member is inserted into the body of the hydraulic jack and is communicated with the ram cylinder through a duct. This switch member comprises a pressure actuated piston which is normally biased in one direction and a spring plate positioned at another direction. The piston and spring plate act as electric contacts in the switch member and will come into contact each other when an overload fluid pressure is exerted on the piston, thereby inducing the electronic alarm device to produce a warning signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1981
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1983
    Inventor: Michael Hung
  • Patent number: 4385586
    Abstract: An emergency evacuation path marking system employing a series of devices, each device having the tactile characteristics of shape and surface contacts, in combination, to indicate direction and distance to the nearest evacuation exit; the shape providing direction information and the surface contacts providing distance information. The devices also being capable of luminescence to aid in visual as well as tactile reference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 31, 1983
    Inventor: Frederick G. Schriever
  • Patent number: 4288784
    Abstract: In an audio visual alarm device that can be mounted on a wall or a post an enclosure with an automatic dusk to dawn security light, a selectively energizable rotating signal light and an audible electrically actuated siren. A remotely controlled relay energizes the alarm and a circuit arranged to extinguish the security light upon actuation of the alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1979
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1981
    Inventor: Andrew Fusco
  • Patent number: 4287509
    Abstract: An alarm system provides both audible and visual signaling of emergency conditions. The audible signaling component of the system comprises a well-known audible fire alarm including an electric horn, bell or siren and an activating switch for applying enabling potential to operate the audible alarm in response to occurrence of particular emergency events. The visual signaling component of the system comprises a sensor for sensing the application of a current-voltage to the terminals of the audible device, at least one high intensity lamp of the type producing illumination of such intensity and duration so as to excite the human optic senses, a power supply and a trigger circuit. The trigger circuit is connected to the lamp, the power supply and the sensor and applies enabling potential to the lamp from the power supply in response to the receipt of a signal from the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1979
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1981
    Inventor: Daniel H. Beggs
  • Patent number: 4276542
    Abstract: An emergency signaling system using the existing two-wire circuit (10) between a switch assembly (15) located within a dwelling and an externally mounted lamp housing (20) includes a switch (25) having an "off" position (27), a "normally on" position (28) whereby a lamp (55) is illuminated continuously, and an "alert" position (29) which activates a circuit (35) preferably included within the same protective enclosure (30) which contains the switch. The circuit (35) causes the current to the exterior lamp to be interrupted at a periodic rate, and it may also include as optional features an audible alarm (40) and a visual indicator (45) to identify when the alert feature is in operation. An adapter (60) is positioned between the lamp (55) and the existing lamp socket (50), and the adapter includes a circuit (75) responsive to the interruption of the current in the two-wire circuit to activate an audible alarm (65).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1978
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1981
    Inventor: Raymond Russ
  • Patent number: 4274084
    Abstract: An audio-visual alarm includes a flashtube and a voltage signal generator for producing and storing voltages sufficient to operate the flashtube. In series with the flashtube and the voltage generator is the coil of an audio alarm, whereby operation of the flashtube also operates the audio alarm. The audio alarm is selected so that its coil will not interfer with the operation of the flashtube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1979
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1981
    Assignee: Wheelock Signals, Inc.
    Inventor: Rein Haus
  • Patent number: 4258291
    Abstract: A smoke alarm activated portable light or lamp for providing emergency illumination in response to an alarm signal from a smoke alarm device includes a frequency selective microphone, several amplifier stages, a peak detector, an isolation or buffer stage, and a power stage comprising a pair of cascaded transistors and a light bulb. The lamp includes a bracket for positioning same in proximity to a smoke alarm and a switch which is closed upon removal of the lamp from the bracket. A power saving circuit includes a photoelectric cell and an amplifier and is operative to saturate or overdrive the first gain stage to override any signal from the microphone whereby the lamp is rendered unresponsive to the smoke alarm signal upon illumination of the photocell by daylight or artificial light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 1978
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1981
    Assignee: Robert J. Scott
    Inventors: Robert J. Scott, Bryant F. Craig
  • Patent number: 4257039
    Abstract: A smoke detector is battery operated and may employ an ionization chamber and/or an infrared detector. When the alarm circuit is actuated due to the presence of smoke levels above a predetermined value being sensed by the detector, the alarm is actuated and each of the built in lights is illuminated. An auxilliary light energizeable by said detector is adapted to disengage one of said lights electrically and to be energized at the same time the other of said lights is energized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 1978
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1981
    Assignee: Norma J. Webb
    Inventors: Norman J. Webb, David Bories
  • Patent number: 4247844
    Abstract: An alarm light includes a lamp, an alarm, and an actuator moveable for actuating the lamp and alarm. The alarm is powered by pressurized gas for vibrating a chamber-sealing disk to emit a shrieking sound. The actuator is located adjacent to the tank and the bulb and includes a passage leading from the outlet to a disk located in the actuator. The outlet is in communication with the passage and gas is capable of flowing through the outlet, the passage, and an entrance to the chamber containing the disk when the valve is open. The disk is caused to vibrate thereby and emit a piercing sound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1979
    Date of Patent: January 27, 1981
    Assignee: Zelco Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Bronislaw Zapolski, Arthur Eisenkramer, Noel E. Zeller
  • Patent number: 4241332
    Abstract: A personal security alarm including a loud speaker powered by an audio frequency signal generator to produce a siren effect and a high intensity flashlamp, both of which are activated upon operation of a remote switch and can be deactivated only by a key switch on the alarm. A generally conical transparent plastic extension from the center of the loud speaker horn encloses the flashlamp and also disperses the sound. Preferably the high voltage power for the flashlamp is derived from a transformer supplied with the audio frequency signal provided to the loud speaker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1979
    Date of Patent: December 23, 1980
    Assignee: Body Guard, Inc.
    Inventor: Anthony Farque
  • Patent number: 4227191
    Abstract: A smoke detector is provided having a smoke detection circuit coupled with an audible alarm and a high intensity light source. The high intensity light source is powered separately from the smoke detection and audible alarm system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1978
    Date of Patent: October 7, 1980
    Inventor: Samuel Raber
  • Patent number: 4196415
    Abstract: An automotive turn-signal flasher unit in which an astable transistor multivibrator periodically switches a flashing circuit through a switching relay is disclosed. The switching relay is formed as an electro-mechanical buzzer and thereby simultaneously provides the additional function of a separate acoustical signal source such as a buzzer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1976
    Date of Patent: April 1, 1980
    Assignee: ITT Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Gerhard Haar, Josef Swoboda
  • Patent number: 4148023
    Abstract: An emergency exit indicator that will signal the location of an emergency exit by a high intensity smoke piercing light and audible alarm, becoming activated automatically when smoke reaches a predetermined level. This indicator is particularly useful in movie theatres, night clubs and similar places where it is necessary to utilize subdued exit lights that will not be distracting. In cases of emergency involving smoke, the emergency exit indicator of this invention becomes activated automatically, thereby emitting a powerful beam of light capable of piercing through substantial distances of dense smoke. However, when the indicator is not activated it will not cause a distraction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1977
    Date of Patent: April 3, 1979
    Assignee: E.D.I. Safety Devices, Inc.
    Inventor: Barry Elkin
  • Patent number: 4101880
    Abstract: An audiovisual signaling device including an auditory signaling means, an inductor for energizing the signaling device, and a circuit interruptor in series circuit with the inductor. A flashtube is electrically connected to the inductor and interruptor, and the inductor acts as an electromagnet when a voltage is impressed across the inductor and interruptor. The series circuit is intermittently interrupted by the interruptor, and the flashtube is actuated in response to the decaying magnetic field of the inductor when the circuit is thus interrupted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1976
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1978
    Assignee: Wheelock Signals, Inc.
    Inventor: Rein Haus
  • Patent number: 4074245
    Abstract: An alarm device for connection between an electric appliance and a power source to provide an audible and visual signal of a power failure. The device includes a first circuit in series with the appliance and power source containing an electro-magnet holding a spirally wound spring hammer in spaced relation to a gong. Upon occurrence of a power failure, the electromagnet is deactivated, releasing the hammer which strikes the gong. Simultaneously, a second circuit in parallel to the first having a switch spring-biased to an open position in the path of movement of the hammer and connected to a light is closed by the hammer. Upon restoration of power, the light is activated to indicate the occurrence of the power failure. A post connected to the free end of the hammer is used to reset the device by returning the hammer to the influence of the electromagnet, also enabling the spring-biased switch to reopen, upon the restoration of power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1976
    Date of Patent: February 14, 1978
    Inventor: John P. Podany
  • Patent number: 4074244
    Abstract: An audible-visual warning alarm system ready for easy installation and suitable for use out of doors is disclosed in which two different sets of audible and visual signals are provided suitable for but not restricted to use with multiple liquid level sensing devices, one set preferably having priority over the other, the sound levels preferably being adjustable but different, the speaker through which the audible signals are made available also having an optional voice input.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1975
    Date of Patent: February 14, 1978
    Inventor: Robert B. Balderson