Signal Light Systems Patents (Class 340/332)
  • Patent number: 9685051
    Abstract: An evacuation assistance apparatus for indicating a route within a building or other structure is disclosed. Multiple housings contain laser light line sources for producing a beam of laser light as a linear line. Adjusters are used to alter the laser light line so that the line starts substantially vertically below said housing. The adjusters also allow the line to be directed on to a portion of the wall to highlight an exit doorway. The apparatus is provided as a modular system including multiple sensors making it suitable for installation in many buildings and providing feedback information to prevent or determine the cause of a fire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2017
    Assignee: BRIGHT ROUTE LIMITED
    Inventors: Andrew Turner, William Scott, David Frame
  • Patent number: 9635733
    Abstract: In some examples, automatic light fixture address technology includes methods and apparatuses. In other examples, the method includes receiving a disable forward control command to disable data forwarding through the light fixture; receiving an enable forward control command to enable data forwarding through the light fixture; transmitting address data for the light fixture based on the enable forward control command; and forwarding one or more additional enable forward control commands based on the enable forward control command.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: Lumenpulse Lighting, Inc.
    Inventors: Casey Shea, Gregory Campbell
  • Patent number: 9418523
    Abstract: An intelligent wireless doorbell alarm system driven and set by a wireless communication protocol includes at least one doorbell switch, plural lamps and an electronic device. The doorbell switch has a wireless signal module for generating a startup signal after the being triggered. The lamps are electrically coupled to one another. Each lamp has a wireless transmission module and a driving module and is electrically coupled to the doorbell switch for receiving the startup signal. The electronic device is electrically coupled to the lamps and has a setup module for setting the lamps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2016
    Assignee: Unity Opto Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chih-Hsien Wu, Wei Chang, Kai-Cheng Chuang, Yi-Shu Chen
  • Patent number: 9363863
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus and associated method for emitting electromagnetic radiation. The apparatus has at least one electromagnetic radiation emitter and a base. The base has four electrical contacts and an identification device. Two of the electrical contacts are in electrical communication with the at least one electromagnetic radiation emitter. The other two electrical contacts are in electrical communication with the identification device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2016
    Assignee: Biozone Scientific International, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew Mercier, Ari Ahola, Adam T Anthony, Hal Gunner
  • Patent number: 9357615
    Abstract: The invention provides a method for intuitively guiding a human to a reference location, such as an emergency exit, with a lighting system comprising a plurality of light sources along a pathway to the reference location. The lights shine with an intensity dependent upon the distance to the reference location, in particular the intensity of the light increases with decreasing distance to the reference location. The location of the emergency can be determined through emergency sensors, so that the intensity of the light sources is then controlled to lead away from the danger to the nearest safe exit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.
    Inventor: Maarten Marinus Johannes Wilhelmus Van Herpen
  • Patent number: 9319575
    Abstract: Power for an illumination device and a camera is provided from power integrated onto a data cable between a controller/computer and the light illumination device. The camera-controller/computer interface includes one of GEV with PoE, USB and CXP, where a power is provided within the data interface cable, and the distance between the camera and the controller/computer is very long. In order to avoid running multiple long cables in a production manufacturing environment, a power extraction module is incorporated into a light illuminator, in order to extract the power for the interface cable, and to generate the individual powers for the light illuminator and the camera. In cases where the interface standard does not provide integrated power, power can be injected to the cable and extracted from the light illumination module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2016
    Assignee: IMPERX, INC.
    Inventor: Petko Dimitrov Dinev
  • Patent number: 9307309
    Abstract: An in-line sound module for a modular stack light system provides electrical and mechanical connectors to allow it to be placed anywhere in the stack. Axial orientation of the audio transducer and a flexible jumpering system allow preservation of central connectors between modules. In-line configuration permits multiple sound modules to be used in a stack light and to be teamed with different beacon modules. In one embodiment the in-line sound module may also include lamps to provide beacon functionality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert P. Feller, Will J. Preischel, Alvaro Sanchez
  • Patent number: 9174567
    Abstract: A motor vehicle with a device for influencing the viewing direction of the driver has a hazard detection and warning output device and a display unit for displaying information contents and/or entertainment contents. The display unit is arranged essentially centrally in the dashboard of the motor vehicle. The passenger compartment of the motor vehicle has a lighting device that is suitable for outputting a dynamic light animation and extends essentially from the display unit to the driver's field of vision on the windshield of the motor vehicle. A light animation that constitutes a movement of light in the direction of the driver's field of vision can be outputted, in order to output a warning about a hazard that relates to or could relate to what is happening on the road in front of the motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2015
    Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Lutz Lorenz, Thomas Lindberg
  • Patent number: 9142103
    Abstract: A mass notification system including one or more alarms for notification of two or more emergency classes. Each alarm can include a lens, a strobe for illuminating the lens with a first light color during activation of the strobe, and a light source such as a light emitting diode for illuminating the lens with a second light color different from the first light color during activation of the light source. During activation of the lens with the light source, the lens appears to be the color emitted by the light source. The alarm can be configured to notify occupants of a first emergency class by activating only the strobe and to notify occupants of a second emergency class by activating both the strobe and the light source. An alarm configured to provide notification of two or more emergency classes can thus use a single lens and a single strobe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2015
    Assignee: UTC FIRE & SECURITY AMERICAS CORPORATION, INC.
    Inventors: Martin Paul Robotham, Thomas Greenwood, Morris Stoops
  • Patent number: 9019116
    Abstract: A signaling device includes an audio signaling unit for emitting an acoustic signal and a light signaling unit for emitting a visual signal. A base housing body is provided, upon which the signaling device is arranged on an accommodating body. An upper housing part is provided, arranged on the base housing body, for forming a receiving space. The base body of the light signaling unit is formed of a light-transparent signal cap, that includes a base area which is spanned by a connection frame. The light signaling unit further includes an electrical switching unit, which is disposed in the connection frame. The base housing body includes a side wall, and the signal cap is attached to the outer side of the side wall with the base area and is disposed on the base housing body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Pfannenberg GmbH
    Inventor: Andreas Pfannenberg
  • Patent number: 8970354
    Abstract: Incident response methods include receiving notification that an incident has occurred, determining a source of the notification, the source being near the incident, and establishing at least one guided path configured to direct a first person, a first animal, or a first movable device positioned near the source away from the incident and/or to direct a second person, a second animal, or a second movable device toward the incident. Electronic guides include an indicator, and processing circuitry configured to receive a request to configure the indicator from an inactive state to an active state in which the indicator encourages a first person positioned near a first side of the electronic guide to move toward the electronic guide and encourages a second person positioned near a second side of the electronic guide to move away from the electronic guide and configure the indicator according to the request.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Inventor: Timothy John Lewis
  • Patent number: 8941508
    Abstract: A signaling device for emitting an acoustic and/or visual signal includes a base housing body, and an upper housing part. The upper housing part can be connected to the base housing to form a receiving space, in which at least one electrical component assembly for generating signals is disposed and from which at least a first electrical line can be guided into the signaling device. A line connection mechanism is provided and disposed in the base housing body to which the electrical line can be connected. The electrical component assembly for the signal generation is disposed on the upper housing part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Pfannenberg GmbH
    Inventor: Andreas Pfannenberg
  • Patent number: 8912898
    Abstract: In one general aspect, a request to determine a status of a first of a plurality of advertising devices is received. The advertising devices are spatially separated. Operating conditions of the first advertising device are identified. The status of the first advertising device is determined based, at least in part, on the operating conditions. A presentation including information indicating the status of the first advertising device is transmitted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Assignee: Lites Out, LLC
    Inventors: Brent D. Arnold, Brian K. Reinle, Scott H. Galaise
  • Patent number: 8896427
    Abstract: A portable thermal image emergency exit marking device for use by firefighters and rescue personnel includes a polygonal housing having electrical heating elements on side panels that are shaped to form infrared heat generating words or symbols indicating an escape exit which are clearly visible by a thermal imaging camera, a flashing strobe light, and an audible alarm, to guide firefighters to the exit of a burning smoke-filled building. The configuration of the infrared heating elements avoids confusion and clearly distinguishes the words or symbols from other hot spots, heat emitting objects, and burning objects in the environment of the burning structure. An accessory adjustably supports the marking device at various heights above the floor surface when desired. The housing may have a ring for connecting a rope that can be extended from the housing to an exit of the burning structure and followed to exit the burning structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Inventor: Roland Ramirez
  • Patent number: 8896444
    Abstract: A system includes a gaming table, at least one light sensor, an electronic system, and a central computer. The gaming table includes a tabletop covered by a fabric. The at least one light sensor is positioned in proximity to a player position at the gaming table. In addition, the at least one light sensor is positioned beneath the fabric to detect light intensity through the fabric. The electronic system is communicably coupled to the at least one light sensor. Furthermore, the electronic system is operable to detect changes in light intensity at the at least one light sensor. The central computer is communicably coupled to the electronic system. Additionally, the central computer is operable to perform at least one operation based on a status of the at least one light sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: Genesis Gaming Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Randy L. Knust, Eric Schoppe
  • Patent number: 8860561
    Abstract: In one aspect, the present invention provides control for a distributed lighting network, for selectively reducing an aggregate electrical load of the distributed lighting network according to a defined lighting reduction pattern. Among the several advantages of the provided control is the ability to define via the pattern which lamps are involved in load shedding, and how they are controlled to shed load. In another aspect, the present invention provides control for a distributed lighting network, for visibly signaling persons within sight of one or more lamps within the distributed lighting network. Among the several advantages of the provided control is the ability to provide emergency or other public safety signaling to persons that might not otherwise be alerted to an existing or impending danger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Sensus USA Inc.
    Inventors: Todd Ellis, Christopher Atkins, Bobby Cantrell
  • Patent number: 8847756
    Abstract: A bed includes bed status indicators, such as a pair of spaced lamp modules that are illuminated to signify a satisfactory status or an unsatisfactory status of the bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Dan R. Tallent, William G. Pittenger, Irvin J. Vanderpohl, III, James L. Walke
  • Patent number: 8836540
    Abstract: A streetlight system includes a plurality of streetlights, disaster warning systems positioned at each of the streetlights and a control center electrically connected with the disaster warning systems. The streetlights are positioned at roadways. Each of the disaster warning systems includes a control system and a broadcasting system. When the control center receives a disaster alert signal, the control center transmits information of disaster shelters and evacuating routes to control system, and the broadcasting system broadcasts information of the disaster shelters and the evacuating routes to people for leading people to escape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignees: GDS Software (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd, Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chi-Chih Wang, Tzu-Te Wang, Bo Ming
  • Patent number: 8816602
    Abstract: Disclosed are methods and apparatus for controlling a lighting system by proximity sensing of a spotlight control device, particularly to controlling a spotlight generated by a lighting system such as a large LED lighting array by means of a spotlight control device. A device is provided for controlling a lighting system by proximity sensing of a spotlight control device, wherein a predefined area around the spotlight control device is illuminated if a proximity sensor signals presence of the spotlight control device within the predefined area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.
    Inventor: Markus Gerardus Leonardus Maria Van Doorn
  • 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: 8803668
    Abstract: An indicator apparatus is configurable for use in a healthcare communication system, such as a nurse call system. The indicator apparatus includes a visual indicator. The visual indicator is operable to selectively display one or more colors in response to calls received by the healthcare communication system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard J. Schuman, Williams F. Collins, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8803711
    Abstract: An indicator device on a marine vessel is configured to display motion. A controller operates the indicator device according to at least a first mode wherein the indicator device displays motion and a second mode wherein the indicator device does not display motion. The controller operates the indicator device based upon an operational characteristic of the marine vessel to thereby inform a swimmer located proximate to the marine vessel of the operational characteristic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: Brunswick Corporation
    Inventor: Steven J. Gonring
  • Patent number: 8786460
    Abstract: A magnetically controlled warning lamp has a light module and a circuit board mounted in the body. The circuit board has a magnetic device, a control module and a power module. The power module provides the control module and the light module with a working voltage. The magnetic device is activated to generate a trigger signal by a magnetic field. The control module changes the operation mode for the light module based on the trigger signal. A user can use a magnet to activate the magnetic device to easily change the operation mode for the light module instead of disassembling the warning lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Inventor: Chun-Ming Huang
  • Patent number: 8773276
    Abstract: A strobe device that operates in multiple modes is disclosed. The strobe device may include an LED-based strobe element and a controller. In response to receiving a command to generate an output, the controller determines in which of at least a first mode and second mode to operate, and sends one or more signals to the LED-based strobe element based on the determination. The first mode and the second mode may differ from one another in at least one aspect, such as duration, luminosity, current supplied to LED, or wavelength range. The controller may select both of the first mode and the second mode (such as alternating between the first mode and the second mode). Or, the controller may select one of the first mode and the second mode. For example, depending on the ambient light at or near the strobe device, the controller may select either the first mode or the second mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Tyco Fire & Security GmbH
    Inventor: Kenneth E. Savage, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8723670
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for marking and/or tracking the location of victims and other items of interest, including marking points of danger, often associated with an emergency, a disaster, a mass casualty incident, or other catastrophe. In particular, the invention pertains to systems and methods for marking and tracking locations utilizing portable devices that are transportable in vehicles operated by emergency responder personnel and rapidly charged to an operational state for immediate use in emergency situations. The invention provides critical assistance to search and rescue personnel called upon to enter unfamiliar structures or areas under low light or poor visibility conditions. The invention may be used to mark unfamiliar territory to facilitate ingress and egress in times of emergency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Inventor: Roy Rabey
  • Patent number: 8717162
    Abstract: A method for controlling guiding, signal or alert lights, particularly signal lights for an emergency escape route in a fire situation, in which method there are controlled sequentially arranged light sources, such as LED light sources. In the method, in the first step the sequentially arranged light sources (40), which are most advantageously arranged as a light source string (4) or at least as part thereof, are activated, on the basis of a signal received from a fire detector (3), to be switched to a first mode, in which first mode the sequentially arranged light sources are used for indicating the direction of an escape route, and/or to a second mode, where the light sources (40) are switched to emit continuous light. The invention also relates to a system and a device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Marimils OY
    Inventor: Göran Sundholm
  • Patent number: 8674848
    Abstract: A queue control system for guiding persons waiting for service by a plurality of service desks, such as check-in desks at an airport, the system comprising computer control means for controlling the system, wherein system further comprises: stripe-like or band-like lighting means arranged for each desk (Desk 1-Desk 3) provided with point-like light sources, like LEDs, coupled to a circuit board, the circuit board being adapted to provide variable lighting operations, wherein each lighting means have at least a stripe-like or band-like part (101-103) arranged in the direction of the queue; and wherein the control computer means are adapted to variably control the lighting of the stripe-like or band-like lighting means in order to guide the persons in the queues and/or entering and/or leaving the queues.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: ELSI Technologies Oy
    Inventors: Richard Eggleton, Göran Sundholm
  • Patent number: 8669853
    Abstract: A light affixed to the front of a school bus directs a beam of light across a road to enhance a safe crossing of the road by children boarding the bus. At least two red warning lights are mounted upon a front surface of the bus. A controller is operatively connected to the crossing light and warning lights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Inventor: Stephen M. Gardner
  • Patent number: 8659443
    Abstract: A treatment area marker device and method for using the treatment area marker in setting up a triage facility for patient care. The device and the method may be particularly useful during an emergency or crisis situation. The treatment area marker is an article of manufacture that includes a light source that is capable of generating different colors of light. The bottom end of the treatment area marker has the means for keeping the device in a substantially upright position. The method of triage includes establishing one or more treatment areas, and erecting one or more treatment area markers to identify the treatment area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Inventor: Bruce Mandel
  • 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: 8614632
    Abstract: This device, by its organization and operation, processes sound, usually music. It provides output voltages, for driving lights, which is proportionally representative of input sound levels. Range of sound perception of the human ear exceeds the range of perception of the human eye. It is necessary to adjust the sound level by compression and Automatic Gain Control, particularly by compression, to accommodate the eyes. A requirement to have the output drive voltage drive the lights is to have a linear response to the compressed audio signal. This requirement is met with an output drive circuit which, has a linear response to the compressed signal. This is achieved with a linear firing circuit when providing output voltage using SCR's or Triacs. In a straightforward variation of the output circuit to improve the power factor, the linear response is maintained by modulating the output with transistors instead of using SCR's or Triacs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Inventors: Kenneth A Wells, Victor W Hatch
  • Patent number: 8590087
    Abstract: A safety system for a truck loading dock with an elevated platform provides an alarm that warns of a hazard at the loading dock such as a forklift operating inside the truck or a falling hazard that may exist due to the dock door being open while a truck is not present at the dock. In cases where a dock's open doorway is protected by a barrier that can be opened or closed, the alarm can be de-activated by closing the barrier. In some examples, the safety system includes a remote body sensor that detects when someone or something is near the doorway. In response to the body sensor, a second, more pronounced alarm can warn of more imminent danger where someone on the platform may be too close to an open doorway when a truck is not present.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Rite-Hite Holding Corporation
    Inventors: Mark R. Swessel, Timothy Muhl, Bradley J. Stone
  • Patent number: 8537008
    Abstract: A bed includes bed status indicators, such as a pair of spaced lamp modules that are illuminated to signify a satisfactory status or an unsatisfactory status of the bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Dan R. Tallent, William G. Pittenger, Irvin J. Vanderpohl, III, James L. Walke
  • Patent number: 8519870
    Abstract: Indicia for providing a visual clue of the position of a vehicle on a race track preferably includes at least one of a first wall indicia strip and a first shoulder indicia strip being formed around the entire race track. At least one of a second wall indicia strip and a second shoulder indicia strip are formed starting at the beginning of the second turn and ending at the start/finish line. At least one of a third wall indicia strip and a third shoulder indicia strip are formed starting at substantially the half way point of the second straight and ending at the start finish line. At least one of a fourth wall indicia strip and a fourth shoulder indicia strap are formed starting at the beginning of the fourth turn and ending at the stop/finish line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Inventor: Robin A. Peterson
  • Patent number: 8514096
    Abstract: A network device may be configured to connect with an external device over a network. The network device may be provided with a light emitting element configured to indicate information concerning network communications, and a control unit. The network device may be configurable to any of a plurality of performance states including a first performance state and a second performance state. Power consumption in the second performance state may be smaller than power consumption in the first performance state. The control unit may allow emission of the light emitting element when the network device is set in the first performance state, and may control the light emitting when the network device is set in the second performance state such that power consumption of the light emitting element in the second case is smaller than power consumption of the light emitting element in the first case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Satoko Ando
  • Patent number: 8482405
    Abstract: The invention is a health monitoring system that determines the spine stress dose value for an individual on a high speed boat. The boat can produce impact injury from whole-body vibration embedded with multiple shocks. The system includes an RFID tag; a GPS; a display; a RFID reader; a multi-axis sensor unit that is an accelerometer which enables the determination of impact, vibration and shock, impact and vibration; and a central data acquisition apparatus. The apparatus includes processors in communication with the GPS, the sensor unit, and the RFID reader. The apparatus samples the RFID reader frequently, confirming the status of all individuals having RFID tags as being onboard or overboard. An application records a GPS location and time if an individual is overboard, and generates a course to the GPS location. The display illustrates a ride roughness graphically, in terms of injury potential at a particular speed and heading.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Eric C. Pierce, Jeffery Blankenship, Brian L. Price, Eric Tuovila, Ronald S. Peterson
  • Patent number: 8471699
    Abstract: A method is provided for monitoring the present location of a traveler at time t1, predicting a location at which the traveler is expected to arrive by time t2, and verifying the safety of the traveler. The safety verification is conducted if the traveler has not reached the expected location at time t2, if signal from the traveler is lost or if a message from the traveler is not received within a predetermined time period. In some embodiments of the present invention, verifying the safety of the traveler involves contacting the traveler at one or more telecommunications devices which the traveler is known to carry, contacting another person that is known to be accompanying the traveler, and if all else fails—alerting the local emergency response team.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Avaya, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis C Kornbluh
  • Patent number: 8466786
    Abstract: A lock mechanism for locking a door or the like with a Sabbath control unit comprises a Sabbath control unit comprising an optical device including a light beam emitter and detector spaced apart with a line of sight path between them, the optical device operative to provide output indicating if a light beam emitted by the emitter is received by the detector, and a locking mechanism comprising a moving member operative to be displaced between a locked state position wherein the door is locked and an unlocked state position wherein the door is unlocked, wherein the moving member is operative to block the line of sight path while in the locked state position and to clear the line of site path while in the unlocked state position, and wherein the Sabbath control unit is operative to activate an electronic device in response to output indicating that the light beam emitted by the emitter has not been received by the detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Rav-Mafteah Ltd.
    Inventor: Asher Haviv
  • Patent number: 8456322
    Abstract: A warning light device having a first warning lamp exhibiting at least one first light unit with at least one first lighting element for visually indicating at least one operating state of a first technical unit having a first electronic control device and having at least one indicating unit for visually indicating at least one operating state, especially several different operating states of the first warning lamp, wherein at least one electronic warning lamp connection is provided for transmitting data and/or control signals at least between the first warning lamp and the indicating unit to provide for the monitoring of several different technical units with considerably less expenditure than in the prior art. This is achieved by the fact the indicating unit is constructed as signaling column having at least one second alternating module with at least one second lighting element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: WERMA Holding GmbH + Co. KG
    Inventors: Juergen Marquardt, Daniel Kensy
  • Patent number: 8395526
    Abstract: A warning light device having a first warning lamp (1) having at least one first light unit (2) with at least one first lighting element for visually indicating at least one operating state of a first technical unit (30) for a first electronic control device (32) and at least one second warning lamp (1) having at least one second light unit (2) with at least one second lighting element for visually indicating at least one operating state of a second technical unit (30) for a second electronic control device (32) wherein an electronic equipment connection (31) is provided for transmitting data and/or control signals between the technical units. This is achieved by having at least one electronic warning lamp connection (6, 9, 11, 13) for transmitting data and/or control signals between the at least two warning lamps (1) with the electronic warning lamp connection (6, 9, 11, 13) having at least one transmitter and/or receiver (11) for the wireless control signal and/or data transmission.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Werma Holding GmbH + Co. KG
    Inventors: Daniel Kensy, Juergen Marquardt
  • Patent number: 8391558
    Abstract: A method for determining at least one threshold value S for distinguishing, in the dark, between reflectors and vehicle lights that are recorded as light spots by a camera sensor oriented towards the surroundings of a vehicle. The camera sensor records a series of images of the surroundings of the vehicle. At least one light spot in the series of images is tracked. When the tracking of a light spot is completed, at least one parameter (for example the maximum intensity Imax of the light spot in the entire series of images, or the lifetime ? of the light spot) is determined from measured values, for example from the intensity of the light spot in each image. The threshold value S is then adapted to the determined parameter/s. The determined parameter value of the light spot is included in a frequency distribution of the parameter values from previously tracked light spots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: ADC Automotive Distance Controls Systems GmbH
    Inventors: Dieter Krökel, Thomas Fechner, Carlos Almeida, Christian Schaale
  • Patent number: 8384526
    Abstract: An indicator apparatus is configurable for use in a healthcare communication system, such as a nurse call system. The indicator apparatus includes a visual indicator. The visual indicator is operable to selectively display one or more colors in response to calls received by the healthcare communication system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard J. Schuman, Sr., Williams F. Collins, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8384556
    Abstract: An elliptically housed solar powered intrusion detection/notification device having a flashing LED light source and audible human voice alarm activated by a passive infrared (PIR) sensor motion detector in conjunction with a battery recharged via surface mounted photovoltaic cells, and a control circuit coupled to the light source/alarm, the PIR motion detector and the battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Inventors: Gordon Ko, Lance Dean
  • Patent number: 8299903
    Abstract: A combination light and sound producing fixture and combination screw-in light with speakers element is disclosed where the fixture is installed in a wall or ceiling or on a wall or ceiling. The light bulb/speaker can be screwed or secured into a standard light bulb socket. The sound producing elements is a coaxial arrangement of speakers having a low frequency transducer and one or more high frequency transducers that can be directed to emit sound in a particular direction. The fixture or bulb may further include digital signal processing to modify the sound to account for obstructions in or near the fixture. The surface of the sound transducer can be reflective in nature to provide focusing or diffusion of the light from the lighting elements. The lighting elements are incandescent, fluorescent or low voltage LED type that may include adjustment for lighting intensity and color.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Inventors: Edward H Haase, John Kemper Pasley
  • Patent number: 8279078
    Abstract: A communication device includes an enclosure including a recess member including a bottom wall and an accommodating portion, a circuit board mounted on the bottom wall, and a light guiding member received in the accommodating portion. The circuit board includes a plurality of light sources arranged in a circular array. The light guiding member includes a light guiding portion to transmit light from the light sources to an outer surface of the communication device and a light shielding portion to shield the light to the outer surface and fix the light guiding portion in the accommodating portion. The light guiding portion includes a light guiding bottom wall surrounding the light sources and a light guiding sidewall. The light guiding sidewall includes an annular end surface to indicate signal strength and a strong signal orientation received by an antenna of the communication device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shih-Chang Hsu
  • Patent number: 8274397
    Abstract: Programmable light assemblies that may function in various operating modes, such as to function as marker lights and/or emergency lights, or have other functions, are disclosed. The protocol and architecture of the light assemblies enables the associated light fixtures to provide a constant current output despite the presence of substantially large voltage ranges, and even when submerged in water. Alternative embodiments of the programmable light assemblies of the invention provide many other features as described herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: Sonoma Circuits, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary Wilson, Raymond G Bryan, Richard L Hicksted
  • Patent number: 8258949
    Abstract: A combined night light and alarm device preferably includes a portable housing, a light emitting section located inside the housing, an alarm section located inside the housing, and a plug attached to the housing and adapted to be removably connected to an existing electrical outlet. An audible alarm is included for notifying residents/occupants when the device senses motion of unauthorized persons. Such a plug may be electrically coupled to the light emitting section and the alarm section respectively. A logic gate may be located inside the housing. Such a logic gate may be electrically coupled to the light emitting section and the alarm section respectively. In this manner, the logic gate cooperates with the light emitting section and the alarm section in such a manner that light and sound are automatically emitted upon simultaneously detecting first and second triggering events around the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Inventor: Ronald Jaynes
  • Patent number: 8253583
    Abstract: A hazard indicator including a power-saving control circuit having a transistor with a collector connected via a resistor to the output of the signal processing circuit. In operation, the transistor delivers the clocked control signal for the semiconductor switch as a function of the current-proportional voltage applied to the base of the transistor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Novar GmbH
    Inventors: Tido Krippendorf, Heiner Politze
  • Patent number: 8242927
    Abstract: An LED fixture includes multiple LED drivers and multiple LED lamps so that the lifetime of the fixture is a multiple of the lifetime of a conventional fixture that uses only a single LED driver. A central controller activates and deactivates the LED drivers so that the different LED lamps are driven sequentially. An optional multi-lamp LED driver concurrently drives multiple LED lamps that have been previously driven by the LED drivers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: ABL IP Holding LLC
    Inventor: Jack Leighton Ries, II
  • Patent number: 8237583
    Abstract: A method and system for a display system is provided. The system includes a screen surface that includes a plurality of luminous units, a controller communicatively coupled to the screen surface wherein the controller is configured to address at least one of the plurality of luminous units, and a luminous unit sensor having a field of view including at least a portion of the screen surface wherein the luminous unit sensor configured to receive an image of the luminous units in the field of view.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Michael Scott Mitchell, Samuel Robert Mollet