Abstract: An alert device that includes a tubular encasement holding battery powered marking light, a compass and a whistle, the tubular encasement and whistle are threadedly interconnected and rotating the whistle of the device with respect to the tubular encasement serves to provide electrical communication activating the light, with the light serving to light up the face of the compass.

Abstract: A mobile security system, which includes a warning signal transmitter unit installed in the place or equipment to be protected, an auto dialing unit having a signal receiver, and a cellular phone coupled to the auto dialing unit, wherein when the warning signal transmitter unit detects an abnormal condition, it immediately sends a warning signal to the signal receiver by radio, and the signal receiver immediately drives the auto dialing unit to dial a particular telephone number upon receipt of the warning signal, so as to inform a particular person or security center to take the necessary step. The auto dialing unit can be a mechanical design, or an electronic design as desired.

Abstract: A life safety system with a micro-controller that is programmed to operate both a visual signal and an audible signal. One feature of the system is that a user is permitted to enter a temporal signaling mode for not only the audible signal, but also the visual signal. The program includes an energy saving routine that operates the visual signal in the temporal mode with an energy consumption that is substantially smaller than required for operation in a continuous mode. The temporal pattern has four cycles with one flash pulse per cycle for the first three cycles and no flash pulse for the fourth cycle.

Abstract: The essence of the method resides in that an optical signalling is carried out to display the remainder on time of three green or red lights which are suspended over a roadway in a single horizontal row on both sides of the orange light. Then two lights of the effective color are alternately switched off at a preset time interval, beginning with the light most removed from the orange lamp, this being done from a preset instant of time till switching on the orange light, while the third light of the effective color remaining switched on for some period of time. Next two switched off lights are switched on again, and the lights are flashing for the remaining period of time in the following sequence: first all the three lights are flashing in synchronism, then two lights and one light, respectively, flash at regular time intervals, after which the orange light goes on.

Abstract: A strobe alarm unit having a plurality of selectable candela settings or intensity levels, for allowing an alarm installer to select a particular candela setting for the alarm unit in the field. The strobe alarm unit incorporates a voltage doubler circuit that allows a single storage capacitor to provide the necessary discharge voltage across the flashtube to provide the plurality of selectable candela settings.

Abstract: A signaling system (10) in the form of a dispatcher activated response identification system is provided for responding exclusively to a predefined signal transmitted from a first location through a telephone service line interconnected thereby with a telephone at a second location to assist responding personnel in identifying the second location when the predefined signal is transmitted from the first location. The signaling system includes first and second electronic circuits (40, 60) at the second location. The first electronic circuit is adapted to generate a first signal (58) at the second location in response to receiving the predefined signal transmitted through the telephone service line. The second electronic circuit is physically separated from the first electronic circuit and is preferably placed where it is easily visible from the street such as in a window.

Abstract: A badge emits light to signal that the person wearing the badge has clean hands. The light is discontinued after a period of time to indicate that the person should proceed to wash his/her hands. The badge may emit light in a distinct manner (or generate sound) during a time period in which the person is supposed to be washing his/her hands. This distinct signal would be generated in response to user input, which should be entered only when the person wearing the button is beginning to wash his/her hands.

Abstract: The light flashing apparatus of the present invention is a four-button control switch in conjunction with an electronic circuit which is installed within an existing light switch junction box and replaces conventional switches. In addition to the two conventional on and off modes of a light switch, the apparatus allows for two different flashing modes; slow and fast flashing of the same light. The selection of any of the four modes overwrites the previous mode of operation, thereby having only one operating mode at a time. Any operating mode is selected by pushing a corresponding one of the four buttons. The slow flashing mode is used, for example, to help someone find your address when there is no hurry (taxi, delivery and so on) while the fast flashing mode corresponds to an emergency situation. The fast flash mode may also be remotely activated by a radio frequency RF signal transmitter.

Abstract: An apparatus and concomitant method of reducing the number of synchronization pulses transmitted to the alarm units for increasing the reliability of the overall alarm system is disclosed. The synchronization signal is implemented as a reference or reset signal from which the alarm units derive a reference time to begin activation of the alarm units. Thus, when an alarm unit receives a reference synchronization pulse, the alarm unit applies the reference synchronization pulse as a reference point in time to trigger a series of flashes or audio tones.

Abstract: An escape system for aiding a person in finding an exit door in the event of an emergency situation of limited visibility. The escape system can includes at least one heat detector and at least one smoke detector, an audible alarm circuitry, a dynamic pulsating door base light, and an optional continuous door base light. Upon detection of a threshold amount of heat or smoke by detectors, an audible detection signal is received by a remotely located microphone, and a alarm signal is generated for transmission by radio frequency (RF) by a RF transmitter. The alarm signal is received by a RF receiver located in an exit door alert unit, having associated circuitry for activating dynamic pulsating LED lights within the door alert unit. The illuminating and flashing LED lights attract the attention of a person in distress who may be crawling along the floor in a smoke-filled room, therefor assisting people to locate and exit a smoke filled and burning enclosure.

Abstract: A rescue guiding system for underground mine personnel to guide the movement of a person during hazardous life-threatening situations from a work area through a passageway to a refuge bay, including a network of short-range radio transmitters each transmitting a different digitally coded signal and a receiver for each person having an indication device to guide the person in the correct direction to reach the refuge bay.

Abstract: An edge illuminated sign is provided with a light dispersal to guide light from a light source into an edge of the sign. The light source is an LED and the light dispersal is a triangular prism provided with a recess for enclosing the LED.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an inspection apparatus of an emergency exit light which is mounted on a wall or a ceiling in order to guide people to the emergency exit in a building in an emergency situation, such as a fire. Particularly, the present invention relates to the inspection apparatus of an emergency exit light for checking whether or not the reserve power supply charged in the secondary battery can be supplied to the emergency exit light to automatically turn on the exit light as soon as the domestic power supply which has been supplied to the emergency exit light is cut off due to the occurrence of an emergency situation, such as a fire.

Abstract: An emergency response system has a radio transmitter activated by dialing one or more programmable sequences of emergency digits dialed on the telephone, which transmits an encoded radio signal to a flashing strobe beacon visible to an emergency response team to assist in locating the emergency. The flashing strobe beacon is responsive only to the encoded signal, is easily relocated and requires no hard wired connection.

Abstract: A driver circuit 1000 for driving functional devices, such as an LED 1020-1023, a buzzer 1060, a voltage converter or an EL-lamp, and a method of operating the driver circuit are provided. The circuit includes an inductor 1030, first and second connection points for connection of a voltage source 1050, switching means 1040 which when in a first state allows an electrical current to flow from the first connection point and through the inductor to thereby charge the inductor with energy and when in a second state substantially prevents an electrical current from flowing from the first connection point to the inductor and at least two functional devices, the function of which are activated when energy is discharged from the inductor to the at least two functional devices.

Abstract: An apparatus and concomitant method of reducing the number of synchronization pulses transmitted to the alarm units for increasing the reliability of the overall alarm system is disclosed. The synchronization signal is implemented as a reference or reset signal from which the alarm units derive a reference time to begin activation of the alarm units. Thus, when an alarm unit receives a reference synchronization pulse, the alarm unit applies the reference synchronization pulse as a reference point in time to trigger a series of flashes or audio tones.

Abstract: A multi-flash strobe light pattern is superimposed on each individual light pulse produced by an incandescent lamp to provide a warning signal of enhanced visibility in a particulate laden ambient environment. The first pulse of each multi-flash strobe pattern is delayed for a time period, subsequent to energization of the incandescent lamp, which is equal to at least 80% of the time required for the incandescent lamp to achieve its maximum light output intensity.

Abstract: A system is disclosed for indicating the status of a person occupying a cubicle, office or other enclosed space by means of automatically or manually initiated visual or audio-visual signals, particularly relating to the occupant's presence, the relative length of absences, the wish to work without being disturbed, and the need for emergency assistance. The system is controlled by a control unit with a micro-controller, a communications link, a red button, an amber button and a green button, each having a lamp of the corresponding color. A motion detector is connected to the control unit for detecting the presence or absence of motion in the monitored space. A proximity detector is connected to the control unit for detecting the passage of a person through the doorway of the monitored space. Also connected to the control unit is an indicator unit with a beeper and red, amber and green lamps functioning in tandem with the lamps of the control unit.

Abstract: An alarm device 10 incorporates a sounder 11 and a strobe 12. The sounder and the strobe are controlled by a circuit board 17 that is located within a single flameproof housing 13. A pressure unit 23 produces the sound for the device with the sound passing through a sintered disc 24 into an upwardly and outwardly diverging cone 25 from the top of which the sound is reflected outwardly and downwardly within a dome 26. A ramp 27 then assists in reflecting and emitting the sound.

Abstract: A warning apparatus provides an alarm indication of the location of an exit from an enclosure or room in the event of a detected fire as well as the safety of the exit. An alarm housing is located remote from a smoke detector on or in proximity to a surface of the exit. The smoke detector output is an ultrasonic frequency signal generated upon detection of a fire. The ultrasonic signal is detected by a receiver carried by the alarm which activates the alarm. The alarm is in the form of at least one, and preferably both of a visible light and an audible alarm mounted within the alarm housing. A temperature sensor on the alarm housing detects the temperature of the exit surface and deactivates the alarm if the temperature exceeds the predetermined safe temperature. A test circuit is included in the smoke detector or on a separate transmitter which, when activated, transmits an ultrasonic signal to the receiver to test the proper operation of the alarm.

Abstract: An emergency signalling system is disclosed that incorporates an emergency signalling device including a light source and reflector mounted for relative rotation in incremental steps in either clockwise or counterclockwise directions. A programmable control unit of the signalling system provides digital signals to a drive source for controlling the speed and direction of the relative rotation. In response to the digital signals, the signalling device executes a variety of different visual patterns. The signalling system can be programmed from a keyboard preferably integrated into a control head mounted to a dashboard area of a vehicle incorporating the emergency signalling system. Virtually any type of visual warning pattern based on the relative rotation of a light source and reflector can be executed by the signalling device if properly programmed.

Abstract: An Automatic Long-Life Infrared Emitter & Locator System which may be used to locate persons in need of assistance or marked objects is disclosed. Since the emitter (10) operates continuously and emanates infrared radiation (21) that can not be seen by the user, no affirmative action is required to activate the emitter (10). One of the preferred embodiments of the present invention (10) includes a flexible plastic or rubber housing (12) having an opening (15) that is specially shaped to fit over and to finly grasp a conventional electrical battery (16). A lens (18) residing on the top of the housing (12) passes invisible energy issuing from an infrared emitting diode (20) deployed beneath it. The diode (20) is connected to the battery (16) by leads (19) through a pulse control circuit (22). This circuit (22) produces intense and regular spikes of energy that cause the diode (20) to flash over a period of many weeks.

Abstract: A system and method for indicating a referee signal is provided. The system includes a signaling device and a signal receiving device. The signaling device has a handle portion, a light source in physical communication with the handle portion and for generating visible light, a power source in circuit communication with the light source, a flag portion in physical communication with the handle portion, and a radio-frequency signal source for generating a radio-frequency signal having a pre-determined code. The light generating portion of the signaling device includes, for example, a plurality of light emitting devices. The signal receiving device includes a radio-frequency receiver and an actuator device. Upon proper receipt of the radio-frequency signal, the actuator device is activated to provide an indication thereof.

Abstract: A portable alarm system in which the alarm functions are contained within a portable enclosure, communication is maintained between the alarm system and wireless security devices, and the alarm is capable of initiating a telephone call to a security monitoring station either by conventional hard-wired telephone lines by cellular transmission, by 1900 megahertz PCS or by other wireless technology. The system may include a wireless/cordless line seizure feature to use a nearby landline if the system is plugged into a landline that has been disabled. The system may also include a vibration/shock sensor to activate the alarm functions if the portable unit is moved or attempted to be destroyed by an intruder.

Abstract: A multifunction vehicle security system, which includes a receiver connected to a control unit which processes received information and enables various functions. The user can increase or decrease the sensitivity of the system sensor, by merely pressing a button on the remote control to increase the sensor sensitivity, and another button to decrease the sensitivity. A special programming mode resets the system programmable features and values to factory settings, to quickly re-establish to a known state all or only preselected features. The system provides automatic silencing during night conditions of the system's arming/disarming chirping to confirm the change of system state. The security system generates a door unlocking command to the vehicle's power door locking system to unlock the doors in the event of a vehicle collision. A theft warning LED energy management system conserves battery power when the vehicle is left unattended for long periods of time.

Abstract: A tactile safety guidance system for hallway and corridor systems for use in low visibility situations by an individual in a prone position, the guidance system having a plurality of first tactile directional symbols in linear spaced apart relationship positioned on the wall of a corridor proximate the floor and identifying the direction in which an individual should proceed in order to reach an emergency exit, a second tactile directional symbol positioned on the floor of an intersecting corridor indicating the direction in which the individual should proceed at the intersecting corridor in order to reach an emergency exit and a third tactile directional symbol positioned on the emergency exit proximate the floor and in vertical alignment with the opening mechanism of the emergency exit identifying to the individual the location of the emergency exit and opening mechanism.

Abstract: The present invention features a self-contained, programmable, telephone-activated emergency visual alert system. Low energy consumption LED visual alert "strobe" signal is directly powered from the inventive control unit. Multiple emergency telephone numbers may be programmed into the control unit making the inventive system highly effective for use in areas without standard "911" emergency dispatch service. In an alternate embodiment, the visual indicator may be located some distance away from the controller unit and be activated by means of an rf or other wireless control link. A small, inexpensive battery at the remote indicator may power the receiver and indicating lamp for long periods of time without the need for battery replacement. Programmable integrated circuits form the basis of the control circuitry allowing low component count, low power consumption and, ultimately, low cost and long term, reliable operation.

Abstract: A hanging emergency light assembly comprising a portable housing which includes a compartment for accommodating at least one battery for supplying electric power, and opposite first and second light emitting ends. The first light emitting end of the portable housing is provided with a strobe lamp and a red colored lens for emitting a red colored strobe light. The second light emitting end of the portable housing is provided with a high intensity light bulb and a clear lens for emitting blinking high intensity light. The hanging emergency light assembly further comprises first and second switches for independently activating and deactivating the strobe lamp and the high intensity light bulb, respectively.

Abstract: A flash and voice warning system generally comprises a power supply with charging circuit, a smoke sensor power supply and auto reset circuit, a smoke sensor (or manual operation), a circuit for converting current to voltage, a single-chip microprocessor, a 60 Hz square wave generator, a control circuit, a buffer, a current amplifier, a high-voltage circuit, N-discharge tube circuits, N-triggering circuits, a flash lamp direction control circuit, and a voice circuit. The smoke sensor is arranged in an appropriate position of a building and the other circuits are mounted within a control box made of fire-proof material. Hence, the flash and voice warning system for fire accidents can direct people where to flee from the fire in case of fire accidents.

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.

Abstract: An electronic tag comprising a controller having a microprocessor, RAM, ROM, line drivers and receivers to interface with a main computer terminal. The electronic tag also has a plurality of switches that are connected to the controller so as to allow the input of data. Data may include selling price, description of the item, designer or brand name. Part of the data may be displayed on a display that is connected to the controller. The tag may be equipped with a receiver so that it may receive signals from another location that is connected to a micro-converter that converts the signals into a format recognized by the controller. A transmitter may also be connected to the controller so that information may be transferred from the controller to another location in the system.

Abstract: A visual signaling device has one or more light source modules arranged in a stack. Each module is of "Tri-liptic" i.e. generally triangular shape, but with the triangle corners rounded. Inside the triangle, is a perfect circle, to aid in the optical dispersion of the light source. The modules are each formed by back and front moldings. The front molding defines one of the sides of the module, while the back molding defines the other two sides of the module. The light source module contains a light source (incandescent, halogen, rotating, strobe or LED) on a printed circuit board. This module also contains the electronics, which operate the light source, and can cause it to flash, be illuminated constantly or operate a rotating reflector around a stationery bulb. A conduit, which is a strip of printed circuit board with connectors at its opposite ends, extends between the top and bottom of each module of the stack.

Abstract: An automobile steering wheel and turn signal indicator for allowing a driver of an automobile to signal for a turn, includes a handle/hub arrangement adapted to be coupled to a steering column of the automobile, spokes disposed about the handle/hub and horizontally extended outward therefrom to the handle, and left and right turn signal indicators disposed on at least one of the handle, hub and spokes of the steering wheel.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for displaying state and transition state information of mechanical equipment. A sensor and display system is provided for displaying aircraft landing gear status and other mechanism status. In one embodiment, the system utilizes two light emitting diodes (LEDs) for each landing gear leg to display the current position of each gear leg. One yellow LED indicates gear UP and the second green LED shows gear DOWN position. When the control switch is moved to change the position of the gear, the indicator light which had been lit is extinguished, and the indicator for the desired position begins to flash, indicating gear movement. The indicator will continue to flash until the gear leg has reached the limit of travel, at which time the indicator stops flashing and glows steadily. Each gear leg indicator operates independently of the others, so that proper position of each gear leg can be confirmed and any malfunction can immediately be identified.

Abstract: An arrangement comprising a main body having a head continuous with a grip, an LED housed in the main body for emitting warning light from within the grip, a light bulb housed in the main body for emitting warning light through glass disposed in at the front end of the head, a light emission controller for controlling the emission of light from the LED and light bulb, and a percussion imparting member attached to the head for breaking a window glass in a car. This arrangement makes it unnecessary to secure a space for installing both a hammer and an emergency signal instrument in a car.

Abstract: An array of randomly flashing warning lights comprised of high intensity Light Emitting Diodes, alert observers to the presence of moving vehicles or pedestrians. Motion sensors such as tilt, reed, or mercury switches can be used to achieve randomized flashing while vehicle or pedestrian are in motion. Dynamic forces, generated by motion, cause sensor contact closures which, in turn, produce short duration pulses of light to be emitted by the LED array. When motion ceases, an auxiliary circuit automatically causes the LED array to continue flashing for a period of about one-minute. The extended period of flashing will continue to alert observers should the vehicle or pedestrian stop for a traffic light, stop sign, or sundry other reasons. Termination of the warning light's activity will result in a power-down state wherein power consumption becomes so minute it eliminates the need for an on-off switch.

Abstract: In a building fire alarm system, the light strobes of a network of strobes are synchronized to flash simultaneously. Each strobe has a charging circuit to charge a capacitor which discharges through a flash tube. Once a capacitor is charged, the charging circuit is disabled. A synchronization pulse is applied through common power lines to trigger discharge of each strobe capacitor through the flash tube followed by recharging of the capacitor.

Abstract: A vehicle theft deterrent apparatus and method includes a flashing light emitting diode (LED) placed in a visible position within the passenger compartment of a vehicle to simulate an authenticate, armed security system. The flashing LED is powered by a DC power supply that is hidden behind a dashboard, under a carpet, in a glove compartment, or in some other remote, hidden location. An elongate, flexible conductor interconnects the LED and the power supply and is also hidden from view. The transverse cross section of the conductor enables it to be hidden at the base of a windshield or to extend through a small space between dashboard panels. The conductor is connected directly to the LED so that no housing for the LED is required and no holes need be drilled in the dashboard to accommodate a housing. A potential thief is deterred from a theft attempt because the only visible part of the apparatus is the flashing LED.

Abstract: A screw-in LED lamp which derives its power from a socket connected to an A-C power line, the lamp being screwed into the socket to produce a light of high intensity useful as a traffic signal or as a warning signal. The lamp includes a screw-in plug connected to a regulator in which the A-C is converted to a D-C voltage which is applied to a bank of LEDs through a power transistor. The power transistor is activated by a pulse generator yielding periodic pulses having a repetition rate of about 20 pulses per second whereby the LEDs in the bank are pulse-activated to produce light flashes which because of visual persistence are seen as a steady light. Each pulse activating the LEDs has a duration of a few microseconds and a voltage magnitude producing a high current flow in each LED whose amplitude is a multiple of the normal current rating of the LED.

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.

Abstract: An electronic vehicular signalling system is disclosed. It has a novel turn signal switch having electromagnetic detents, novel electronic circuitry which provides all standard signalling functions and optionally features automatic cancellation of turn signal switch, an energy saving hazard warning mode, a police alert hazard warning mode, double-rate turn signal flashing on lamp burnout, Vehicular Lamp Status Display System, clicking sound in cadence with flashing or tone, and automatic turn signal timeout with choice of timeout intervals. Separate flasher units are not needed, nor a microprocessor.

Abstract: A two-stage traffic alert system, and a method for its use, to visually alert pedestrians and operators of surface vehicles to the approach of emergency vehicles toward roadway intersections. A wireless signal transmitter mounted to an emergency vehicle automatically transmits a signal of a predetermined frequency while the emergency vehicle is en route to an emergency destination. The signal is received by at least one ground-based signal receiver and strobe light assembly mounted centrally within the pavement of approaching intersections. The transmitted signal first actuates an upper strobe light system within the ground-based assembly, alerting the public to the approach of the emergency vehicle toward the intersection. The initiation of the upper strobe light comprises the first stage of the traffic alert system. The second stage of the traffic alert system is initiated either by a time delay command based on the time of receipt of the first signal or a change in signal frequency from the transmitter.

Abstract: This invention provides a new and improved emergency alarm system comprising a central control unit which is directly or indirectly connected to every other component of the emergency alarm system. The central control unit triggers and stops a visual alarm generator and an audio alarm generator, either simultaneously or separately, upon receiving signals from other components of the emergency alarm system. A portable control element and a signal-generating detection means are used for starting and stopping the central control unit, which in turn triggers a power supply means to cause a change, through the visual alarm generator, in color of a visible outdoor board and to commence, through the audio alarm generator, an alarm. A hidden sensing circuit can serve as the signal-generating detection means. The present invention also presents a method of application of said emergency alarm system.

Abstract: A security switch system including a power supply; a first electrical contact switch; a second electrical contact switch; an electrical flash unit having a flash circuit including a flash emitting device that emits a flash of light of sufficient intensity to temporarily impair the vision of a viewer; and a switching relay having first and second alternating current switching contacts installable in series within the main alternating current power input to a building. Actuation of either or both the first and second electrical contact switch causes the flash unit to emit a blinding flash of light while the switching relay simultaneously disconnects all power to the building including the ambient lights. The robber is thus exposed to a high intensity flash of light while being simultaneously plunged into a dark environment.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed for detecting and signaling when a vehicle enters or poses a serious risk of entering a roadway work zone. The apparatus comprises an intrusion detector array for detecting a vehicle breaching the work zone perimeter, and a high intensity strobe light array for providing an optical warning signal when the perimeter breaching vehicle is detected. The detector array includes one or more transmitters for emitting pulsed infrared signals along the work zone perimeter, and one or more receivers for detecting the presence or absence of the pulsed infrared signals, where the receivers include filters for removing stray signals emanating from sources other than the transmitters. The strobe light array includes a primary strobe activated by the detector array when a perimeter breaching vehicle is detected, and several relay strobes which are activated by the optical warning signal emitted by the primary strobe or another relay strobe.

Abstract: The present invention particularly addresses the issue of safely for motorcycles with respect to enhanced visual awareness on the part of automobile drivers by making the motorcycles significantly more conspicuous. Important features of the invention include flashlamps fired randomly at frequencies selected to be particularly attractive to drivers, a geometrical array for the flashlamps that defines the vehicle as a motorcycle, a forward illumination pattern that provides visibility where it is most needed, and a means for preventing operation during nighttime conditions.

Abstract: A switch for use in an AC circuit wired in a three-way switch mode for supplying power to a load, has a first terminal for connection to an external line, second and third terminals for connection respectively to corresponding terminals of a second like switch, and a switch contact for selectively connecting the first terminal to either one of the second and third terminals. A transformer has its primary winding connected between the first terminal and the external line, and its secondary winding deriving an output voltage therefrom. The output voltage is rectified and supplied to a light-emitting diode. The ratio of turns of the windings of the transformer is such that the rectified voltage energizes the light-emitting diode when power is supplied to the load over its normal operating range. The light-emitting diode will thus provide an indication of when power is supplied to the load.

Abstract: A voice warning system for fire accidents including a plurality of fire sensors, a first multiplex selector, a detecting and scanning circuit, a locking circuit, a decoding circuit, a memory circuit, a second multiplex selector, a scanning circuit, a load, a time pulse controlling circuit, a fire emergency assistance calling circuit, and a plurality of loudspeakers 12, the sensors and the loudspeakers being designed to arrange in appropriate positions and the other circuits being disposed with a fire-proof control box, whereby in case of a fire accident, the system will give fleeing instructions to all people in a building through the loudspeakers and will automatically call the fire emergency assistance at the same time.

Abstract: A menu stand or like device is employed as a signal device to summon a waiter to a table in a restaurant or like establishment. The device includes a housing having a base that supports it on a table and a low-energy demand light source. The light source is preferably a thin electroluminescent (EL) surface element mounted on a menu holder that is a part of the housing. A D.C. battery, removably mounted in the housing base, energizes an inverter that generates an A.C. energizing signal that is applied to the light source. Preferably, the A.C. energizing signal pulsates at a low frequency. There is a switch, normally open, that turns the light source ON to summon a waiter.

Abstract: The audible alarm apparatuses include fire sensing portion, location setting portion for setting a location of the fire sensing portion, system controller for providing information about the location of the fire outbreak and controlling interface devices, DTMF generator, DTMF receiver, voice data storage portion responsive to the information outputted from the system controller for providing a voice data, parallel to serial converter, digital to analog converter, and amplifier, etc. The apparatuses give and take the information about the location of the fire outbreak directly with each other via a telephone line without a host computer.