In And Out Indicators (e.g., Doorbell Button Flashes "out" Sign) Patents (Class 340/330)
  • Patent number: 11795754
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a method conducted by a movable barrier gateway device is disclosed for controlling a movable barrier, comprising receiving, by a communication interface, a remote command from a remote control device to move the movable barrier, the remote command sent over a network, delaying transmission of a signal to a movable barrier controller to move the movable barrier, by a processor, for a predetermined time period after the remote command is received, detecting movement of the movable barrier within the predetermined time period by a barrier movement detector, and ignoring the remote command by the processor in response to detecting movement of the movable barrier within the predetermined time period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2023
    Assignee: Ecolink Intelligent Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Lamb, Michael Bailey, Jay Stone, Carlo Petrucci
  • Patent number: 11682249
    Abstract: This disclosure includes techniques for controlling smart home devices upon entering a home with a fingerprint sensor in a doorbell device. After capturing a fingerprint of a digit of a guest and sending the fingerprint to a server device, the server device matches the fingerprint of the digit to an entry in a guest fingerprint database for a first user. The server device sends an operational command to a smart home device separate from the doorbell device and located at a same premises as the doorbell device. In response to receiving the operational command from the server device, the smart home device performs an action corresponding to the operational command.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2023
    Assignee: Ademco Inc.
    Inventors: José Miguel Díaz Arriaga, Rodolfo Piña Ramírez, César Rodríguez Esqueda, Edgar Abraham González Romero, José Luis García Hernández
  • Patent number: 10997850
    Abstract: The Service Animal Emergency Alert Apparatus is a device for providing a triggering means to a trained animal to send an alert signal by triggering a remote activation device connectively attached to an alert service, monitored service, or emergency response service comprising a box having a door providing access to an interior of said box wherein a configurable remote device position tray is connectively attached to a plurality of triggering buttons and a triggering pull cord configured to enable a trained animal to send an alert by pushing upon said triggering buttons or grasping and pulling upon said triggering pull cord thereby activating said remote activation device sending an alert signal through an alert service, monitored service, or emergency response service to summon responsive human assistance to render aid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2021
    Inventor: Kira Nichole Clark
  • Patent number: 10957169
    Abstract: In some embodiments, a video doorbell system includes a video doorbell device on an exterior surface of a structure and a chime kit within an interior of the structure. A transformer can be coupled in-series via electrical conductors with the video doorbell device and the chime kit. The chime kit can include an energy storage device that is charged via the electrical conductors. When a user activates a button on the video doorbell device power control circuitry within the video doorbell device can transmit a signal on the electrical conductors. Button detection circuitry within the chime kit can detect the signal and respond by transferring power from the energy storage device to a chime. While the chime is activated the transformer can continuously supply the video doorbell device with power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2021
    Assignee: Logitech Europe S.A.
    Inventors: Aron Rosenberg, John M. Long, Nick Stoughton
  • Patent number: 10878730
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a novel illuminated address sign assembly comprising a frame having an open front side, an open rear side, a top side, a bottom side, a left side, and a right side, forming an enclosure; an address plaque can be coupled to the open front side of the frame, while the open rear side can be provided with an opaque plaque. The address plaque comprises of an opaque indicia, representing the address, superimposed on a surface of a translucent backlit panel. The novel illuminated address sign can be further provided with a light sensor and GPS system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2020
    Inventor: Royce Newcomb
  • Patent number: 10832534
    Abstract: A doorbell customization assembly includes a doorbell mount mountable on a wall of a building. A switch is coupled to the doorbell mount and the switch is electrically coupled to a doorbell for ringing the doorbell. A receiver is coupled to the doorbell mount, the receiver surrounds the switch and the receiver has a plurality of keyways therein. A disk engages each of the keyways in the receiver such that the disk is removably coupled to the receiver. The disk turns the switch on when the disk is depressed to ring the doorbell. Logo indicia are printed on the disk to enhance the ornamental appeal of the doorbell on the building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2020
    Inventor: Rahsaan Currie
  • Patent number: 10726696
    Abstract: A security system includes an individual subscriber unit, an emergency alarm device proximate to a location frequented by people, and a control system configured to a) receive an emergency alert message from the individual subscriber unit, b) receive an emergency stand-down message from the individual subscriber unit, c) automatically transmit an emergency alert signal in response to the control system receiving the emergency alert message from the individual subscriber unit, and d) automatically transmit an emergency stand-down signal in response to the control system receiving the emergency stand-down message from the individual subscriber unit. The emergency alarm device is operatively coupled to the control system for automatically activating for issuing an alert for warning people at the location that an emergency is present, in response to the emergency alert signal, and automatically deactivating for terminating the alert, in response to the emergency stand-down signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2020
    Inventors: Robert T. DeLintt, Eric M. Barber
  • Patent number: 10690283
    Abstract: A gimbal for controlling an optical device includes a rocker and a controlling assembly. The rocker is configured to receive an action instruction and generate a control instruction based on the action instruction. The action instruction includes a long press when a rocker handle of the rocker is deviated from a middle position, and the control instruction includes a back-to-middle control instruction instructing the rocker handle to return to the middle position. The controlling assembly is configured to receive the control instruction from the rocker, and generate a performing instruction based on the control instruction for controlling the optical device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2020
    Assignee: SZ DJI OSMO TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Paul Pan, Ming Liang Zhu, Xi Feng Zhao
  • Patent number: 9905093
    Abstract: The auxiliary alarm for existing alarm system is adapted for use with an installed security system. The auxiliary alarm for existing alarm system monitors each individual alarm condition monitored by the installed security system. The auxiliary alarm for existing alarm system is organized into a plurality of alarm channels. Each alarm channel contained within plurality of alarm channels corresponds to an individual alarm condition monitored by the installed security system. When the installed security system generates an alarm condition, the auxiliary alarm for existing alarm system turns on an alarm channel selected from a plurality of alarm channels. The selected alarm channel then generates a visual alarm and an audible alarm that clearly identifies the individual alarm condition that triggered the installed security system to generate the general alarm. The auxiliary alarm for existing alarm system comprises a housing and a control system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2018
    Inventor: Samuel Burgess
  • Patent number: 9053592
    Abstract: A key management box includes a card reader configured to read ID for personal authentication, a data writing unit to write information on at least the ID read by the card reader in an electronic key, a data erasing unit configured to communication with the electronic key and disable the electronic key when the electronic key is determined to be a key on-lending, and a control substrate configured to determine that a lending mode is established when the card reader reads the ID and cause an electronic lock to permit opening/closing of a door and then activate the data writing unit, or configured to cause the electronic lock to permit opening/closing of the door when the data erasing unit determines that the electronic key is a key on-lending through communication with the electronic key while the card reader does not read ID.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2015
    Assignee: TOKAI RIKEN CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Akihiro Sato, Masami Umemura, Nobuhiko Segi
  • Patent number: 8810415
    Abstract: An object, for example a building, is divided into different sections. Each section comprises a plurality of computers, each controlling an individual escape route display or a group of escape route displays. The computers are controlled by monitoring sensors of the object section. The blueprint of the object section and a control algorithm for the safest escape route from the object section is stored in the computers. The invention further relates to an escape route display that can be used for a device of said kind.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Elektro Grundler Ges.m.b.H. & Co. KG
    Inventors: Gottfried Grundler, Georg Franz Wagner, Ulrich Constantin Wagner
  • Patent number: 8653984
    Abstract: An emergency lighting system for a building includes at least one LED-based light. An emergency detector is operable to detect an emergency. The emergency detector produces an emergency signal in response to the emergency. A controller is operable to control the at least one LED-based light in response to the emergency signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: iLumisys, Inc.
    Inventors: John Ivey, David L Simon
  • Patent number: 8619136
    Abstract: A system and method for displaying security content from a set top box to a television. In one embodiment, the television receives media content for display. Security content from one or more wireless cameras replaces the media content in response to receiving an alert from the one or more wireless cameras.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: CenturyLink Intellectual Property LLC
    Inventors: Jamie C. Howarter, Charles M. Lesher
  • Patent number: 8536991
    Abstract: A decorative doorbell device is provided that includes a base unit attachable to a door and an ornamental housing unit rotatably lockable to the base unit. A doorbell ringer may be attached to the ornamental housing unit with a wireless activator so that a sound-producing unit is remotely activated by the wireless activator. The ornamental housing unit may be formed in the shape of a football helmet and decorated with a particular team's logo and colors on in any other desired ornamentation and shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Inventor: Spencer O. Gilbert
  • Patent number: 8269621
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a mezuzah case having an electronic signaling device for attracting attention of Jewish people walking through a doorway to a mezuzah which is affixed to the doorpost. The Mezuzah case includes housing for holding and protecting a mezuzah parchment and an electric signaling device for emitting a noticeable signal. According to one embodiment the signaling device is a light source. According to an alternative embodiment, the signaling device emits an audio signal. The mezuzah case may further include electronic means for automatically controlling the signaling device according to a preset program and a power source for energizing the electronic means and the signaling device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Inventors: Tomer Shapira, Eli Levi
  • Patent number: 8183989
    Abstract: An emergency exit indicator includes a light source, a visual indicator and a power line communication unit, wherein the visual indicator is disposed within the illumination scope of the light source, and the power line communication unit is electrically connected to the light source. The emergency exit indicator is capable of altering the displayed escape information. The present invention further provides an emergency exit indicating system using the above-mentioned emergency exit indicator and can more precisely display the escape information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: GE Investment Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Wen-Kuei Tsai
  • Patent number: 8154391
    Abstract: A door bell button for activation of a door bell is provided which includes a mounting base for attachment to a surface adjacent to a door, a switch secured to the mounting base and having a lighted actuator plunger, and a translucent bell button shaft having a first end and a second end, the second end abutted against the lighted actuator plunger and slidably disposed and capable of limited movement along an axis perpendicular to the mounting base. Light from the lighted actuator plunger shines through the translucent bell button shaft to light the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Inventor: Eric D. Morris
  • Patent number: 8149104
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for managing utilization of rooms in a clinic, for example, include a visible display, for example, colored lights at an examining room, indicating one or more of several available room status values for the room. An input device including, e.g., push buttons, is coupled to the display and adapted for selecting the room status value. A timer coupled to the input device and display automatically changes the status value of a room when a predetermined time period has elapsed after the status value is first selected, except when a third room status value is selected. This feature notifies personnel if, for example, a patient has been left alone in a room too long. A central control provides a database to accumulate minute-by-minute utilization data of the clinic rooms and also programs to access and compute from the data the overall utilization by variable periods. This utilization data are useful for planning, reallocation and investment in new space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Inventor: David A Crum
  • Patent number: 8063791
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, an electronic apparatus includes: an indicator configured to indicate an operation status of a device; a switch configured to receive an input; a time determination module configured to determine whether an input time during which the input is continually received by the switch exceeds a predetermined first time; a lighting controller, when the time determination module determines that the input time passes the first time, configured to control the indicator so as to be turned on in a first lighting pattern; a detector configured to detect an end of the input received by the switch; and a processor, when the time determination module determines that the input time is greater than or equal to the first time and the detector detects the end of the input received by the switch, configured to perform predetermined first processing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventor: Akihito Shibahara
  • Patent number: 7982627
    Abstract: A meter device includes an indicator unit, movably supported within a predetermined range, for representing an amplitude value of an input signal by a movement amount ?? from a reference position ?0 which is one end of the predetermined range. A gain acquiring unit acquire a gain of the input signal; and a maximum movement amount determining part determines a maximum movement amount ??M of the indicator unit at the gain based on the gain acquired by the gain acquiring unit. A drive control unit moves the indicator unit to a position corresponding to the amplitude value of the input signal between the reference position ?0 and a maximum movement position ?M moved from the reference position ?0 by the maximum movement amount ??M based on the maximum movement amount ??M determined by the maximum movement amount determining part and the amplitude value of the input signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Sato, Yoko Kuzuoka, Kiyoshi Suzuki, Wei Keat Yew
  • Patent number: 7898394
    Abstract: An embodiment relates generally to a method of organizing information. The method includes providing for a knowledgebase and providing for a first set of tags configured to be applied to items in the knowledgebase. The method also includes providing for a second set of tags configured to be applied to items in the knowledgebase and searching the knowledgebase based on at least one of the first set of tags and the second set of tags. The method further includes ranking result items in a search result favoring the result items tagged with terms for the first set of tags.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Red Hat, Inc.
    Inventor: Jason Hibbets
  • Patent number: 7768419
    Abstract: A mobile communication terminal which includes a plurality of lights, apparatus for controlling the activation of the lights, apparatus for storing a number of sequences of activation of the lights, and apparatus for assigning one of the stored sequences of the activation of the lights to a particular event in the mobile communication terminal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Nokia Corporation
    Inventors: Atle Messel, Giovanni Ferranti, Timo Elomaa, Tapani Jokinen, Michael McKay
  • Patent number: 7750810
    Abstract: A method system, and device for identification by an identification tag in which a request to a control module of the identification tag is transmitted from an interrogation device via a contactless interface of the identification tag, so that the control module accesses identification data stored in a memory module assigned to the identification tag. The identification data are transmitted via the contactless interface. Body-specific identification data of the wearer are captured and transmitted to a verification module by a measuring device assigned to the identification tag, or a sensor, and/or an analysis device. The transmitted body-specific identification data is compared with the identification data stored in the memory module by the verification module, to confirm the identity of the wearer. The identification tag is injected and/or implanted under the skin of the wearer. The identification tag can be in particular an RFID and/or NFC tag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: Swisscom Mobile AG
    Inventors: Rudolf Ritter, Eric Lauper
  • Patent number: 7746223
    Abstract: A system and method for displaying security content to a cell phone. An indication is received that a doorbell has been activated. A signal is sent to the cell phone indicating that the doorbell has been activated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: Embarq Holdings Company, LLC
    Inventors: Jamie C. Howarter, Charles M. Lesher
  • Patent number: 7619538
    Abstract: This invention pertains to evacuation systems, more particularly, it pertains to single or networked guiding devices that utilizing pre-programming and/or virtual programming, sensing and detecting means, illumination and alarming means, symbols and text messages to direct traffic to safety. The networked guiding devices of the system are configured to systematically and progressively direct traffic from one device to the next, directing traffic to safety. The system is configured to be controlled locally or remotely, on-demand. The evacuation system is applicable to people's traffic, vehicular traffic and/or other transportation modes. The evacuation system may be used in emergency or non-emergency situations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: Sanrose, LLC
    Inventor: James R. Zarian
  • Patent number: 7561027
    Abstract: A sensing device is provided. The sensing device includes two or more sensors for sensing one or more physical properties. A first sensor draws a first electrical signal, and similarly, a second sensor draws a second electrical signal. The first and second electrical signals correspond to values of the physical properties sensed by the respective first and second sensors. The sensing device further includes an electrical circuit connected to the first and second sensors. The electrical circuit draws a third electrical signal. The electrical circuit is configured such that the total electrical signal drawn by the sensing device is proportional to either the first or the second electrical signal, whichever has a higher value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Kais Kaizar Badami, James K. Koch
  • Patent number: 7474214
    Abstract: A method and system for locating tires is disclosed. According to the invention, an RFID reader antenna is positioned at a predetermined location such that the distances between the reader antenna and the tires are different. Each tire embeds at least one RFID tag. The distance between the reader antenna and each RFID tag is determined by measuring the delay required for the signal to be reflected by the RFID tag. Since all the distances between the reader antenna and the RFID tags are predetermined, knowing the distance between the reader antenna and a particular RFID tag allows the determination of the position of the particular RFID tag and of the tire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Frederic Bauchot, Jean-Yves Clement, Gerard Marmigere, Pierre Secondo
  • Patent number: 7417535
    Abstract: An apparatus for converting a low voltage alternating current (AC) wiring circuit to a high speed data communications link, comprising a primary coupling circuit and a secondary coupling circuit. The apparatus provides low voltage AC power to a data device and couples data signals between the data device and the AC power line via the converted low voltage AC wiring circuit. An example is provided for retrofitting a door chime system to a high speed data link such as a video camera system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Assignee: RadioShack Corporation
    Inventors: David K. Mathews, Alfred C. Griffin
  • Patent number: 7365966
    Abstract: An electronic device has an operating panel. A through-hole penetrating the operating panel is provided at a part of the operating panel. A partition board includes a board part and a partition part, and a step is provided between the board part and the partition part. In an area where the through-hole and the board part of the partition board are to be formed, a metal mold can be thickened. In an area where a narrow gap on a surface side of the operating panel is to be formed, the length of the metal mold can be reduced. Therefore, the strength of the metal mold can be maintained. Also, the step of the partition board, which separates the board part and the partition part, prevents visual recognition of the through-hole by a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Takahiro Suzuki
  • Patent number: 7365637
    Abstract: A doorbell detection and playback circuit for a doorbell pushbutton connected to an alternating current power source comprises at least one bridge rectifier circuit coupled to the power source through a diode placed in parallel with the pushbutton. The bridge rectifier circuit generates a signal at a first frequency when the pushbutton is not depressed, and generates a signal at a second frequency when the pushbutton is depressed. A frequency detection circuit is included and is coupled to the signal from the bridge rectifier. The frequency detection circuit further comprises an output responsive to the presence of a signal at the second frequency coupled to a sound generator for playing a ring tone or series thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Assignee: Heathco LLC
    Inventor: Jimmy D. Claiborne
  • Patent number: 7336158
    Abstract: A doorbell unit capable of displaying several status indicators or messages next to its activation button. The activation button is located on a display panel. The user can set the display panel to show a variety of messages, including “Do Not Ring,” “Ring With Care,” “Welcome,” or a custom text message. The display panel is preferably controlled by logic circuitry located within a controller, which replaces the conventional chime unit. A remote control is provided, so that the user can alter the status of the device without having to access the controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Inventor: Lori Lombardo
  • Patent number: 7253720
    Abstract: A programmable push button having a microcontroller located therewithin to provide a switching signal to operate an electronic switch and thereby enable power to be supplied from a source of power to a load to initiate an external event. The push button also has a piezoelectric assembly which is responsive to one or a sequence of manually applied pushing forces at a push button cap. The microcontroller is interconnected with the piezoelectric assembly on a printed circuit board so that output voltage signals generated by the piezoelectric assembly are applied to the microcontroller as a series of digital pulses. The microcontroller can be programmed by applying a particular sequence of pushing forces to the push button cap so that one or more times can be set during which the external event will be initiated or to require a predetermined security code to be entered before the external event can be initiated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Assignee: Polara Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Leslie A. Beckwith, Wayne L. Russell
  • Patent number: 7135959
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for wireless doorbell and security control panel interaction is provided. The system includes a wireless doorbell, a security control panel, and at least one control panel activation device having a transmitter and a manually activated switch or button. The control panel is in communication with the at least one control panel activation device by way of the transmitter. The control panel includes a receiver for receiving signals transmitted from the at least one control panel activation device via the transmitter. A security keypad having a speaker device for broadcasting an alarm or message related to functions of the security system is in communication with the control panel as well. At least one auxiliary security device is also in communication with the control panel. The auxiliary security device may include an assortment of devices that perform ancillary functions that enhance the functionality of the security control panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Honeywell International, Inc.
    Inventors: Harold Wagner, Robert J. Orlando
  • Patent number: 7109860
    Abstract: The present invention is to provide a surveillance apparatus for monitoring the situation of a visitor through a mobile phone, which comprises a monitor assembly including a microprocessor, a digital/analog converter connected to the microprocessor, an electric bell, a microphone, and a speaker. If the electric bell is pressed, a visit signal will be sent to the microprocessor. After the microprocessor has received the visit signal, a notice signal is sent immediately from a switchboard through at least one base station to a mobile phone. After the mobile phone is connected, a bidirectional signal communication can be made between the mobile phone and the microphone and the speaker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: Inventec Appliances Corporation
    Inventor: Shun-Ping Wang
  • Patent number: 7049956
    Abstract: A portable kit for use at a polling place to ease access of a disabled person to voting facilities. The portable kit includes a case containing a base, a collapsible post for mounting on the base and an activation switch mountable on the post and having a radio transmitter for emitting a radio signal when operated by a disabled person. A sign is also provided on the post to alert the disabled person of the presence of the assistance. A radio receiver and loudspeaker is provided inside the polling place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: Inclusion Solutions, LLC
    Inventors: Patrick H. Hughes, Jr., H. Hollister Rundy, IV
  • Patent number: 6992591
    Abstract: Battery powered LEDs operated at a small fraction of their rated capacity to provide a level of illumination useful as a marker for darkness adjusted vision. Long battery life is achieved using super bright, broad spectrum LEDs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Assignee: Jenesis International Inc.
    Inventors: Bradford B. Jensen, Roger D. Bentley, Kim I. McCavit
  • Patent number: 6975213
    Abstract: A whistle has a whistle member having a mouthpiece at a front thereof, a chamber therein, a passage communicated with the chamber, and an outlet at a sidewall of the chamber, and a light emitting device provided on the whistle member, which has a lamp, a battery and a switch device, wherein the lamp is conducted with the battery and the switch is provided at between the lamp and the battery to turn the lamp on or off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Inventor: Lo-Pin Wang
  • Patent number: 6965203
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method and circuit for repetitively firing a flash lamp. The method utilizes a power supply having a periodic voltage signal. The method times the discharge of the flash lamp to occur when the power supply signal is below the flash lamp self extinguishing voltage such that the flash lamp de-ionizes while the power supply signal remains below the self extinguishing voltage, thus preventing afterglow. The circuit utilizes a means for detecting when the voltage of the power supply voltage signal falls below the self extinguishing voltage to trigger the flash lamp. An additional embodiment adds a means for interrupting current flow in the flash lamp before the voltage across a storage capacitor falls below said self extinguishing voltage. The method and circuit may be extrapolated for use with other electromechanical devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Assignee: Synaptic Tan, Inc.
    Inventors: David G. Changaris, Wayne S. Zinner
  • Patent number: 6897765
    Abstract: A remote control device when actuated by a user transmits a visually perceptible coded signal to a sensor associated with a doorbell which receives the signal and causes activation of the doorbell as desired. The sensor has multiple settings which control operation of the doorbell such that any, specified, or no remote devices may operate the doorbell depending on the setting that is selected on the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Inventor: Roberto Kaje
  • Patent number: 6870488
    Abstract: A driveway security sensor having a ground-engaging member connected to a housing body. The ground-engaging member substantively has the shape of a slake. A swivel member is pivotally connected to the housing body, and a motion sensor is connected to the swivel member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2005
    Inventor: John L. Compton
  • Patent number: 6750760
    Abstract: Some embodiments of the present invention enable a user to select from different appearances and sound types by providing different door chime assembly housing covers. The housing covers can be different in shape, size, appearance, and/or acoustic property, and preferably can be releasably mounted a housing base. A door chime assembler, manufacturer, or user can therefore select from different door chime assembly appearances and acoustic properties by selecting one of two or more different housing covers. The door chime assembly can employ a number of different features that change the sound quality of the door chime assembly, including a domed or tented housing cover shape, a housing cover having curved edges and corners, an open acoustic chamber unbroken by internal walls, and side wall housing apertures. Other significant advantages are provided by the use of a door chime assembly transformer that is mounted to the door chime assembly housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignee: Broan-NuTone
    Inventors: Charles W. Albritton, William A. Kaepernick, Daniel L. Karst, Robb R. Roell, Richard G. McDonald
  • Patent number: 6741163
    Abstract: A decorative motion detector, and a method for its use, that is preferably mounted in the interior of an occupied dwelling near an interior doorway area wall to a child's room in an operative position to warn a parent or guardian when people leave or enter the child's room through that doorway. The detector is mounted to an essentially planar base member having a rear wall, a decorative front wall, and a cavity therebetween so that its presence in a conspicuous position near the interior door is aesthetically pleasing and so that the decorative design on its true function of the present invention is disguised. When armed, the present invention generates a signal upon detection of movement within the doorway and the signal is transmitted to an alarm device that may generate an audible alarm, a visual alarm, or both.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Inventor: Corinna A. Roberts
  • Patent number: 6731208
    Abstract: A house intercom security system includes a main unit connected between the exchange line of a telecommunication office and a telephone set, an indoor intercom and an outdoor intercom respectively connected to the main unit, and an alarm connected to the main unit. The main unit is driven to dial a pre-set telephone number when a visitor presses on the outdoor intercom, as the host of the house in which the house intercom security system is installed is absent. The indoor intercom is driven to trigger the alarm and to dial a pre-set telephone number for help when the user presses on an alarm button of the indoor intercom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Inventor: Hsin Wu Lee
  • Patent number: 6731200
    Abstract: A system is described which replaces conventional “do not disturb” and “maid service” or “housekeeping” signs in hotel guestrooms. The system comprises means for allowing a hotel guest to choose, from within the hotel room, a message to convey to hotel staff and others such as “do not disturb”. The message is expressed by indicators housed within assemblies located outside of the hotel room, which are visible to passers-by. The system may also convey such messages to a more remote location such as a housekeeping office and the switch may be activated remotely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Axxess Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Joerg Cornelius Wagner, Joseph Karl Hans Huber, Charles Frederick Aitken
  • Patent number: 6606030
    Abstract: A pet training device designed to alert a pet owner that his/her pet would like to enter or exit the home.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Inventor: Anthony Vena
  • Patent number: 6587049
    Abstract: A system is disclosed for using passive infrared technology to analyze the thermal energy in a given space, to determine whether a person is present, and if so, whether he or she is experiencing an emergency or a normal physical state. A detector mounted on the wall or ceiling collects the thermal data. A microprocessor in a desk top control module or a personal computer determines occupant status from the data and instructs a wall-mounted indicator to activate occupant status signals. The preferred signals are: an intermittent red light and tone for emergencies, a green light for normal states, and an amber light for absences. Occupant status signals and silent alerts may be transmitted to and from other locations via a communications network. The invention also warns of possible fire danger. Additionally, it may be used to control lights and office machines and integrated with building security systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Inventor: Ralph W. Thacker
  • Patent number: 6563431
    Abstract: An automatic garage door system includes a controller. The controller receives information on the vehicle's position from a vehicle parking unit. When the automatic system is on, the system determines if the garage door is open via a garage door position sensor. When the garage door is open, the controller signals a remote interface unit located inside the house to indicate that the garage door is open. The vehicle parking unit determines if a car is entering or leaving the garage. When no vehicle is entering or leaving the garage, the garage door is automatically closed after a predetermined time interval. When a vehicle is entering the garage, the vehicle's position is monitored by the vehicle parking unit, which displays the vehicle position information to the vehicle driver with a visual parking indicator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Inventor: Jay W. Miller, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6486790
    Abstract: A luminous signalling device comprises a body made of transparent synthetic material, basically in the form of a plate having two larger faces set opposite one another, at least one of which carries an image. A plurality of LED devices of the SMD type which emit white light is coupled externally to at least one of the walls that define the peripheral edge of the aforesaid plate body. The arrangement is such that the rays of white light coming out of the LED devices undergo multiple total reflections within the plate body, which thus functions as a light guide. In areas corresponding to selected areas of the image, the face of the plate body is made up of diffusing optical elements designed to diffuse outwards the rays of light that are incident on said areas within the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Assignee: C.R.F. Societa Consortile Per Azioni
    Inventors: Piero Perlo, Piermario Repetto, Silvia Farina, Daniele Pullini, Vito Lambertini
  • Patent number: 6445302
    Abstract: A pet training device designed to alert a pet owner that his/her pet would like to enter or exit the home.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Inventor: Anthony Vena
  • Patent number: 6359564
    Abstract: A system is disclosed for indicating the status of a person relative to a workspace. A motion detector senses the entry and exit of the person through a entryway of the space and distinguishes the difference between the person's presence when moving and when stationary. An indicator automatically displays a constant green light to announce the person's presence, a flashing green light when the telephone is being used, a flashing amber light for short duration absences, a constant amber light for long duration absences and an intermittent red light and beeper for emergencies. A controller houses a preprogrammed microprocessor, a communications link and three illuminated buttons corresponding in color to the lights of the indicator and functioning in tandem with them. The green button activates the “Do not disturb” display, the amber button the long duration absence display and the red button the emergency alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Inventor: Ralph W. Thacker