Signal Light Systems Patents (Class 340/332)
  • Patent number: 7705745
    Abstract: An optical traffic signal column including stacked levels fixed to one another by rotation. The base of each level includes, distributed along its periphery, oblong passages and fixed connectors. The conductors include rods each having two ends angularly offset from one another, and including a common conducting rod and a stage-specific conducting rod. The connector rods are identical and respectively fix the bottom of a conducting rod of the relevant level and the top of the respective conducting rod of an adjacent level, the angular offset between the two fixing points corresponding to that of ends of the conducting rods. The conducting rods are mutually arranged and mounted to effect, from one level to the next level, an essentially identical angular position of the common conducting rods and an angular offset of the stage-specific conducting rods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Schneider Electric Industries SAS
    Inventors: Jean-Marie Periot, Thierry Chue, Didier Severac
  • Patent number: 7688222
    Abstract: A traffic informational system provides information to traffic moving along a road and may include a plurality of traffic information devices mountable to the road, each having an integral power producing source, at least a first set of illumination sources, and a wireless communications subsystem. The traffic informational system may further include at least a first external control device comprising at least one antenna and a transmitter communication wirelessly with the traffic information devices and/or with one another. The traffic information device may communicate with one another, and may include sensor for sensing ambient conditions. The system employs various approaches to reducing power consumption and improving communications, and is suitable for a wide range of applications, including use in remote environments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Spot Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Timm Peddie, David P. Bim-Merle, Thomas A. Burnham, Daniel O. Santos, Lawrence E. Miller, Vineet Mehta, Johannes B. Van Niekerk
  • Publication number: 20100066558
    Abstract: A security device with a locator module and an identifier module sends an alert signal to warn others of an emergency situation. The security device uses a wireless transceiver to transmit the alert signal and a monitoring center. Location information updates and an audio signal are sent to the monitoring station. The security device may be located within an outer casing that conceals its functionality.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2009
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Inventor: Michele McCauley
  • Publication number: 20100052875
    Abstract: The apparatus consists of a self contained lighting and identification device (10) having a strap (104) for attachment to a SCBA tank. A back plate (58) and a front shield (62) are spaced apart forming a cavity for LED back-lighting, with the front shield incorporates identification indicia (68) which provides recognition of a specific firefighter. Battery containing tubes (72) act as structural pillars and are located between an upper end cap assembly (20) and a lower end cap assembly (86), utilizing tie rods (96) for attachment therebetween. Diffused light distribution tubes (78) energized by LED's are positioned adjacent to the battery tubes evenly dispersing light on each side of the apparatus, effectively penetrating a smoke environment. The upper end cap assembly incorporates a printed circuit board (46) which includes the necessary control and lighting devices, and the lower end cap has a removable bottom cover (90) allowing batteries to be replaced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventor: George I. Boyadjieff
  • Patent number: 7671760
    Abstract: A traffic signal system for utilizing an efficient and simplistic structure to regulate vehicle and pedestrian traffic. The traffic signal system includes a support member including at least one receiver member and at least one light module including a plug member extending outwardly from the light module, wherein the plug member is positionable within a cavity of the receiver member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Inventor: Saul Vallejo, Sr.
  • Patent number: 7667614
    Abstract: The invention relates to a casing (i.e., housing) for receiving an electrical device, particularly a switching device or sensor, having at least one indicating apparatus for indicating different electrical states, particularly switching states, of the device. The casing is characterized in that each indicating apparatus has a plurality of indicating devices and that the indicating devices of one indicating apparatus are positioned facing one another on the casing in such a way that, from each viewing direction, at least one indicating device of each indicating apparatus can be seen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Pepperl + Fuchs GmbH
    Inventors: Wolfgang Helm, Manfred Ruppert, Eckhard Berg
  • Patent number: 7656284
    Abstract: A multi-purpose visual signaling device, particularly for road emergency warning and in low visibility conditions, includes light-emitting means for generating a light beam and means for supplying power to the light-emitting means. The light-emitting means include at least one laser projector adapted to project images over a substantially flat surface for such images to be visible from a relatively long distance. The light-emitting means and the power supply means are mounted onto a stationary support structure, which may include a front warning triangle-defining portion. The laser projector comprises at least one laser diode and optical and/or electronic means for generating images in space or over a substantially flat surface. The optical and/or electronic means comprise a diffractive lens. Images include monochromatic, polychromatic and/or holographic images, possibly of variable configuration, and preferably form a triangular design.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Assignee: Astron Fiamm Safety S.p.A.
    Inventors: Alessandro Dolcetta, Alberto Filosofo
  • Patent number: 7649472
    Abstract: A multi-module facility safety or security notification system containing (a) a central control unit, (b) at least one sub-module containing a light source and a sensor for detecting the level of ambient light, (c) at least one sub-module containing at least one additional sensor that is not an ambient light sensor, and (d) a at least two user selectable illumination options capable of being selected from at least the central control unit. The minimum illumination options are first an option where the light sources will respond to the ambient light sensor and the other sensor (i.e. a night-light mode) and second, an option where the light sources do not respond to the ambient light sensor but does respond to a different sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Inventor: David Joseph August Paterno
  • Patent number: 7633406
    Abstract: The present invention is a lighting control system including at least one local device and a plurality of lighting devices. The communication transmission medium between the local device and the lighting devices is provided with directional characteristics, and the lighting devices are selected and designated, as needed, using ID information. A designated lighting device is lighted up and performs light intensity setting. A judgment is carried out as to whether or not the relation between an illumination at a desired position and a target illumination satisfies a predetermined condition, and causes the illumination at the desired position to approach the target illumination by letting the plurality of lighting devices successively perform a procedure of increasing/decreasing their respective light intensities based on a result of the judgment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: The Doshisha
    Inventor: Mitsunori Miki
  • Patent number: 7629894
    Abstract: A plurality of directional sounders located in a region being monitored can be synchronously and sequentially activated in various patterns to establish an audibly defined exit route from the region. Emitted audio, from a respective sounder, can be different than the audio emitted by other activated sounders to provide a path and direction for evacuation to individuals in the vicinity of the exit route.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas A. Plocher, Janet J Z X Jin, Foong Yeen Chan, Qing Li
  • 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: 7573396
    Abstract: An aircraft emergency lighting system including: a plurality of units having communication devices arranged to communicate wirelessly with a master controller, wherein each unit is wired to a common power supply for powering the unit in a first mode of operation and has its own back-up battery power supply for powering the unit in a second mode of operation, and wherein the device is provided for off-load testing the back-up battery power supply of each unit and indicating if the unit is operational.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Assignee: SAF-T-GLO Limited
    Inventor: Peter David Stokes
  • Patent number: 7564368
    Abstract: A lighting system for delivering a dynamic, fully customized, and automatic illumination to a subject. The lighting system comprises a programmable light unit for emitting a programmed pattern and spectra of illumination, a sensor pod comprising an array of sensors for detecting ambient lighting conditions and subject characteristics, a control unit for allowing a user to program the lighting system, and a processing unit for analyzing data from the sensor pod and control unit to construct an optimal lighting profile in accordance therewith. The lighting system generates light in accordance with the lighting profile which is fully optimized in spectrum, intensity, color, contrast, temperature, angle, and focus for any given environment, subject and task.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Inventor: Zary Segall
  • Patent number: 7557704
    Abstract: An emergency location identification system is provided. The system includes a monitoring unit and an emergency light unit. The monitoring unit is connected to a telephone system of a facility, and responds to some predetermined dialing of the telephone generating signals, which is going to control the behavior of the emergency light unit. The emergency light unit includes a plurality of colors and shapes adapted to display a emergency location identification to an emergency crew or visitors. The emergency light unit may include blue, green, and red lights and may flash for some instances. Also, the emergency light may have a predetermined shape such as arrow, triangle, and others to alert people properly for the emergency situations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Inventor: Clifton DeBaugh
  • Patent number: 7535341
    Abstract: A combination light and sound producing fixture is disclosed for installation in a wall or ceiling or on a wall or ceiling. The sound producing elements is an arrangement of speakers having a low frequency transducer and one or more high frequency transducers oriented directed to emit sound in a particular direction. The fixture may further include digital signal processing to modify the sound to account for obstructions in near or around the fixture. The fixture may include a feedback system that allow the fixture to self modify its frequency response. The signal to the fixture is provided by wired or wireless interface. 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 or color.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Inventor: Edward H. Haase
  • Patent number: 7528700
    Abstract: A fire exit alert system, preferably integrated into an exit device or automatic fire exit door closer, uses sound and light to signal the location of a fire exit in darkness and smoke-obscured rooms. The alert system includes a voice signal, such as “EXIT LOCATED HERE,” to signal that the location of the voice is also the location of the exit. A white noise signal generator is used to supplement the voice signal and produces a sound that is particularly localizable by the human ear. A strobe light and a laser are used to produce a visual guide to the location of the exit. The strobe light is flashed when the word “HERE” is used in the voice signal. The laser is used to produce a cone of light that points towards the fire exit alert system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Assignee: Sargent Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Daniel J. Picard, Jon Hulse, Jay Krajewski
  • Publication number: 20090102619
    Abstract: An evacuation system having escape identification lights (1) and monitoring sensors (2), having a central computing system (7) is suggested, which analyzes messages from the monitoring sensors (2) and alternately releases or blocks escape routes as a function thereof by targeted activation of building devices (12) and escape identification lights (1). To provide advantageous construction conditions, it is suggested that the escape identification lights (1) comprise a control unit (15), which may be coupled to a display (13) and is connected via a network (14) to the computing system (7), which is alternately connected to one or to at least two displays (13) via an interface (16) for activation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2006
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Inventors: Franz Blohberger, Gottfried Grundler
  • Publication number: 20090051506
    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: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2007
    Publication date: February 26, 2009
    Applicant: MILLER INDUSTRIES TOWING EQUIPMENT INC.
    Inventors: Richard L. Hicksted, Gary Wilson, Raymond G. Bryan
  • Publication number: 20090002138
    Abstract: A measurement indication method and an apparatus to indicate difference between a measured result taken by a medical measurement instrument and a normal digital value according to medical theory. The medical measurement instrument includes at least a measurement element, a power supply, at least one processing unit and the apparatus to implement the measurement indication method. The apparatus includes a plurality of indication lamps capable of emitting light of three or more colors. The number and lighting color of the indication lamps can be changed sequentially according to the difference of the measured digital value and a normal digital value range. Thereby users can easily determine the difference between the measured result and the normal value. And the measured value can be indicated in graphics.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2007
    Publication date: January 1, 2009
    Inventor: Daniel C.M. Tseng
  • Publication number: 20080303643
    Abstract: An individual-identifying communication system of the present invention comprises: plural light-emitting devices; an imaging device; a display device capable of displaying an image based on image data obtained by said imaging device; a selection device for selecting a predetermined area within the displayed image; a storage device storing plural identification information data for specifying a mobile terminal to communicate with, each of the identification information data being associated with a unique data indicating a lighting pattern of each light-emitting device; an acquisition device acquiring acquisition lighting pattern data from the image data from the imaging device; a determination device determining the unique data corresponding to the acquisition lighting pattern data, based on the acquisition lighting pattern data acquired from selection area image data and plural unique data; and a communication device communicating with a mobile terminal assigned with identification information data correspond
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2008
    Publication date: December 11, 2008
    Applicant: Aruze Corp.
    Inventor: Mitsuyoshi ISHIDA
  • Publication number: 20080303659
    Abstract: A low-profile signal device is provided having a plurality of light emitters disposed on at least one support member, the plurality of light emitters configured to emit light in a plurality of colors that indicate one or more predefined conditions; a housing substantially enclosing the at least one support member; a signal interface coupled to the plurality of light emitters and configured to selectively activate light emitters from the plurality of light emitters in response to a received control signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2007
    Publication date: December 11, 2008
    Applicant: SEEGRID CORPORATION
    Inventor: Mitchell Weiss
  • Publication number: 20080266065
    Abstract: A fire evacuation guidance system includes a pair of dissimilarly colored laser beams generated by at least one laser emitting device. The dissimilarly colored laser beams are generated substantially parallel to hallways of a (5) structure and subsequently reflected, where required, to direct occupants to a shortest exit route in the event of a fire emergency. That is, a first laser beam of one color is generated substantially parallel to one side or a hallway while a second laser beam of a second color different from the first color is generated substantially parallel to the opposite side of the hallway. So long as an occupant (10) of the structure positions himself or herself between the two laser beams and keeps the laser beam of the first color on his or her right hand side, the occupant will be directed to the closest exit in the event of a fire emergency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2006
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Inventor: Richard Kennedy
  • Publication number: 20080258900
    Abstract: A warning light and warning light assembly are disclosed. The warning light includes a housing including a base and a translucent cover. The light also includes a metallized circuit board having a base portion and one or more opposing side portions, the base portion sized to fit within the base and the side portions extending away from the base on opposed sides of the base portion of the circuit board. The warning light also includes a plurality of light emitting diodes on the side portions of the circuit board.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2007
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Inventors: George Frank, Paul Gergets, Vince Fleszewski, Robert Czajkowski
  • Patent number: 7423548
    Abstract: A system and method for providing emergency egress path indication by providing a path direction indicator that is hidden from view during normal operation and is exposed to view upon activation by an emergency signal. Upon being exposed to view the indicator may be lighted and may provide light to people seeking exit from the building. In one embodiment the indicator may include a laser pointer further indicating the direction of egress. Visible and Braille text may also be included on the face of the indicator. The indicator device may be located near floor level for better visibility in smoke environments. In the non-visible state, the indicator may present a rugged face to withstand accidental kicks and bumps as may be encountered when mounted near the floor. The indicator may be operated repetitively and nondestructively to allow inclusion of the indicator in fire and other emergency drills.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Inventor: Michael Stephen Kontovich
  • Publication number: 20080180229
    Abstract: An alarm system notification device includes a strobe, a communication port, a manual selector that allows manual selection of strobe intensity, and a communication port through which the device transmits an indication of a selected strobe intensity. The device may also include a commandable selector that selects a strobe intensity in response to a command received from the communication port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2008
    Publication date: July 31, 2008
    Inventors: Joseph Piccolo III, Juan A. Martinez, Gary W. Vincent
  • Patent number: 7393121
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method and a system for guiding people in an emergency. More specifically, the present invention provides a method and system using a laser for guiding people away from an area of danger, and for guiding emergency personal to an area of danger. The system includes a pair of dissimilar visible laser beams generated by at least one laser emitting device. The system also includes an invisible laser for rescue personnel. The visible dissimilar laser beams are generated substantially parallel to each other to direct evacuees away from an area of danger via the shortest and safest route in the event of an emergency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2008
    Inventor: Trevor Scott Small
  • Patent number: 7388514
    Abstract: An emergency light assembly includes a flexible panel that has a first lateral edge and a second lateral edge. A first set of light emitters is mounted in the panel. The first set of light emitters is arranged in an arrow shape directed toward the first lateral edge. A second set of light emitters is mounted in the panel. The second set of light emitters is arranged in an arrow shape directed toward the second lateral edge. A control is operationally coupled to the first and second light emitters for selectively turning the first and second light emitters on or off. The control has an off setting turning each of the first and second sets of light emitters off, a first setting turning the first set of light emitters on, and a second setting turning the second set of light emitters on.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Inventor: Steven E. McDow
  • Patent number: 7385479
    Abstract: A data processing system for analyzing customer and employee interactions in a service establishment is disclosed. The data processing system, comprises a plurality of remote customer, employee units and a central unit. The units each include a transceiver to send and receive signals. The signals are all received by the central unit and relayed to the appropriate unit. The central unit time stamps and records all signals in a database. The system further comprises an evaluation program which analyzes the signal data to provide employee performance ratings and staffing recommendations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Assignee: ESP Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Devin Green, Drew Palmer, Edmond J. Dougherty, Jr., Todd A. Binkowski, Daniel Green
  • Patent number: 7382252
    Abstract: An emergency signal apparatus for alerting police, medical service, neighbors and people passing by to emergency situations that may arise in or at a residence. The apparatus is designed for mounting on an upright post or column such as is commonly used for supporting rural mailboxes and includes a flashing strobe light and a siren which can be activated by operation of a manual switch in the residence or by operating a remote switch by a radio frequency emitter. The signal apparatus preferably includes illuminated house numbers, chimes within the residence and automatic dialing of the 911 emergency telephone number with a prerecorded message giving name, telephone number and address.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Inventor: Chet J. Brannon
  • Publication number: 20080122588
    Abstract: An address-free driving device and lighting fixture system are disclosed. The device is applied in controlling a lighting device, and includes a serial interface, a signal converter, a signal processor and a lighting driving unit. The signal converter converts an inputted signal from the serial interface into a digital signal. The signal processor then extracts a controlling data corresponding to the address-free driving device from the digital signal, and determines whether or not the inputted signal from the serial interface can be outputted to another address-free driving device. The lighting driving unit drives the lighting device to illuminate light based on the controlling data. Accordingly, when the lighting devices are electrically and serially connected, the address-free driving device then controls the lighting devices based on the order of series connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2006
    Publication date: May 29, 2008
    Inventors: Shih-Tung Chang, Chi-Hsien Chou
  • Patent number: 7378989
    Abstract: An emergency lighting arrangement preferably includes plural emergency light units connected to an on-board power supply network of an aircraft, and plural emergency current sources that each include at least one capacitor. Each emergency light unit includes an emergency light emitting element and a control unit that automatically connects the capacitor of the emergency current source to the emergency light emitting element upon the failure of the on-board power supply network. Preferably, the emergency current source including the capacitor is integrated into the emergency light unit. The emergency light unit may further include normal operation light emitting elements selectively connected by the control unit to the on-board power supply network. The control unit switches between normal operation of the normal light emitting elements and charging of the capacitor, and emergency operation in which the capacitor discharges through the emergency light emitting element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Assignee: Airbus Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Bodo Wisch, Lars Rowold
  • Patent number: 7375617
    Abstract: An evacuation appliance comprising a mounting plate configured to be connected to a wall, with the mounting plate having a terminal clip. The evacuation appliance further includes a notification device having at least one notification member, with the notification device being configured to be connected to the mounting plate to electronically connect the terminal clip to the at least one notification member to power the at least one notification member. The mounting plate and the notification device comprise an accessible testing system, such that when the mounting plate and the notification device are connected, the notification device can be measured using the accessible testing system to determine if the notification device is properly receiving power from the terminal clip without disconnecting the notification device from the mounting plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Assignee: Gentex Corporation
    Inventor: Christopher D. Stirling
  • Patent number: 7372361
    Abstract: A restaurant service management system, for facilitating efficient communication between a customer and service staff in an establishment such as a restaurant. The service staff is equipped with a communication station having a display, and each customer is equipped with a signaling device in communication with the communication station. The signaling device has a service button, numbered pushbuttons, a red colored LED, and a green colored LED. To request service, the customer presses the service button, signaling the communication station, and causing the red colored LED to flash. When the alert is acknowledged by service staff at the communication station, an acknowledgment signal extinguishes the red colored LED and causes the green LED to illuminate. When service personnel reach the customer, a code is entered using the numbered pushbuttons, the green LED is extinguished, and the system is reset.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Inventor: Robert Mealing
  • Patent number: 7369039
    Abstract: The restaurant business is often a fast paced, stressful, and confusing business to work in. Servers frequently have a hard time guessing patron needs and patrons often find it difficult to gain the servers attention. Sometimes patrons want to be left alone with their meal or conversation only to be interrupted by a server, creating an uncomfortable situation for both patron and server. With the Waiter Call Light, patrons can gain the servers attention with a push of a button. With it's side mounted light source the server can easily know (even from across the room) when the customer requires attention. This will increase efficiency in communication between server and patron. Table turn over times can be significantly decreased, which helps shorten wait times, allows for more customers to be served, increases restaurant sales/profits, all while making the dining experience easier and more pleasurable for both server and customer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2008
    Inventor: Kirk Michael Knutson
  • Patent number: 7369503
    Abstract: Disclosed is an information distribution system in which a receiving terminal installed in a mobile object can reliably receive high quality distribution information from the beginning. The information distribution system comprises data transmission units, each for transmitting a plurality of data signals including same distribution information using a plurality of different radio channels with sequentially delaying the transmission start time of the data signals; an auxiliary transmission unit for transmitting signals according to communication status of the data transmission units; a communication control unit for controlling the auxiliary transmission unit and the data transmission units; and detection means for detecting the velocity control information for the mobile object. A receiving terminal for receiving the data signals transmitted from the data transmission units is installed on the mobile object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2008
    Assignee: Pioneer Corporation
    Inventors: Kazuyoshi Takahashi, Toshiaki Tsuchiya, Kenji Mito, Kiyoshi Yajima, Tomoyuki Fujieda
  • Patent number: 7362220
    Abstract: An integrated lighting control and threat detection system is provided. Once one of the threat detectors determines that a hazardous condition exists, it transmits a threat message to the lighting control system. The lighting control system then operates to turn on illumination within the dwelling to aid in an occupant's safe exiting from the dwelling. The lighting control system operates to illuminate all lights within a dwelling upon detection of a hazardous condition. Alternatively, the lighting control system operates to illuminate preselected paths of lighting as programmed by a user. Still further, coordinated illuminated control may be provided based upon the location of the detected hazardous condition and the fixed and portable lights within a dwelling. Both fixed and adaptive illumination control are provided as is a fail safe illumination of all lights within a dwelling should each of the pre-selected exit paths contain a hazardous condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2008
    Assignee: Robertshaw Controls Company
    Inventors: John Gilman Chapman, Jr., Nicholas Ashworth, Robert Burt, Timothy E. Wallaert
  • Patent number: 7358861
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to an electronic floor display system with an alerting feature to encourage persons standing near or on the floor display system to look down and observe its display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Assignee: Intellimats
    Inventors: Ronald D. Blum, William Kokonaski, Jack Loeb, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7358855
    Abstract: The present invention provides a local area warning system that is designed to alert the public of severe weather and technological alerts. The apparatus consists of red, amber, and blue warning lights and audio speakers that warn the public of the severe conditions. The speakers can be employed to produce a loud siren and/or coherent broadcasts describing the severe condition. An antenna on the apparatus captures the radio frequency broadcast signal from NWR. A receiver connected to the antenna decodes and presents the audio and visual messages of weather and technological conditions to the public through the warning lights and the speakers. The county code or the geographical location is entered into the receiver such that only severe alerts that correspond to the area of the device will be presented. All of these components are connected to a support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Assignee: Maxillis, Ltd.
    Inventor: Robert Willis
  • Patent number: 7355507
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatuses that operate with different communications devices, different users, and/or different communications networks to generate, enable, and/or transmit an Emergency Alert Communications Signal to an Emergency Alert Communications Address. According to embodiments, the transmitted Emergency Alert Communications Signal activates an emergency alert at the geographic address of the Emergency Alert Communications Address. The activated alert may be visual, audio, and/or transmission of a positioning signal that aids emergency response personnel in locating the geographic address.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Assignee: AT&T Delaware Intellectual Property, Inc.
    Inventor: Valerie Binning
  • Publication number: 20080036575
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a method of notifying the selection of an item using a plurality of light emitting devices provided in a terminal, including: selecting an item of at least one item displayed on a display included in the terminal, and notifying the selection of the item using the plurality of light emitting devices. Disclosed herein is also a method of notifying the occurrence of an event using a plurality of light emitting devices provided in a terminal, including: notifying the occurrence of the event using the light emitting devices according to the detection of the occurrence of the event.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2007
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventors: Huhn Kim, Young Suk Oh, Hyun Ho Kim
  • Patent number: 7327219
    Abstract: A monitoring system for use in a building, such as a hospital provides an audible and/or visual alarm. The monitoring system includes a control unit, with a plurality of medical condition monitoring units, such as ventilators, connected thereto. A plurality of speakers and/or light sources are connected to the control unit, and are located at various different spaced-apart areas within the building. An abnormal condition, sensed at one of the plurality of medical condition monitoring units, is reported to the control unit, which in turn causes the plurality of speakers and/or light sources to issue an audible/visual alarm. An adaptor can connect a medical condition monitoring unit to the control unit. The adapter may include circuitry to render an alarm output of the medical condition monitoring unit compatible with the control unit, and to suppress an alarm output for a predetermined period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Inventor: Charles Henry Lederer, IV
  • Publication number: 20080012692
    Abstract: One embodiment relates to a complex quantitative media performance metric spectral display system. The system displays a spectral color that accurately represents a complex quantitative value of a media performance metric. The system includes an integrated electrical component system, a parameter input module, a control module, and a spectral output module. The integrated electrical component system relates to audio and/or video media functionalities. The parameter input module is configured to receive a parameter that corresponds to a media performance metric of the integrated electrical component system such as internal temperature, proximate electromagnetic radiation, video brightness, or audio volume. The control module includes a correlation algorithm configured to correlate the parameter with a color. The control module also includes a spectral component algorithm configured to correlate the color with a set of red, green, and blue intensity components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2007
    Publication date: January 17, 2008
    Inventor: Michael Pyle
  • Patent number: 7319402
    Abstract: A combined doorbell and smoke detection device includes a housing that has monolithically formed sides. One side includes openings formed adjacent to the housing top corners for receiving fasteners therethrough. Nested within the housing are a door bell chime, a first control unit, a carbon monoxide smoke detector, and an ionization smoke detector. A second control unit is coupled to the carbon monoxide and ionization smoke detectors, and includes an amplifier. A power interrupt diverting switch is disposed within the housing and is mated to an external power source. An internal power supply source is nested within the housing and is coupled to the power interrupt diverting switch. A transformer is coupled to the power interrupt diverting switch, and the first and second control units for converting a first voltage level to a second voltage level transmitted to the first and second control units respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2008
    Inventor: Randy D. Sudderth
  • Publication number: 20080007400
    Abstract: A laser projector and software are disclosed. The software controls the laser projector for factory and warehouse floor-room marking and signage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2007
    Publication date: January 10, 2008
    Inventor: Terry Murphy
  • Patent number: 7315241
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an enhanced perception lighting (EPL) system for providing enhanced perception of a user's physical environment. The EPL system comprises a sensor module for detecting and sampling a physical aspect from at least one point in a physical environment and for generating an observation signal based on the physical aspect; a processor module coupled with the sensor module for receiving the observation signal, processing the observation signal, and generating an output signal based on the observation signal; and a projection display module located proximate the sensor module and communicatively connected with the processor module for projecting a display onto the at least one point in the physical environment based upon the output signal. The system allows a user to gather information from the physical environment and project that information onto the physical environment to provide the user with an enhanced perception of the physical environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2008
    Assignee: HRL Laboratories, LLC
    Inventors: Mike Daily, Ron Azuma, Chris Furmanaki
  • Publication number: 20070279242
    Abstract: A plurality of directional sounders located in a region being monitored can be synchronously and sequentially activated in various patterns to establish an audibly defined exit route from the region. Emitted audio, from a respective sounder, can be different than the audio emitted by other activated sounders to provide a path and direction for evacuation to individuals in the vicinity of the exit route.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2006
    Publication date: December 6, 2007
    Inventors: Thomas A. Plocher, Janet JZX Jin, Foong Yeen Chan, Qing Li
  • Patent number: 7298244
    Abstract: An NBC marker light is designed to be simplistic, lightweight, and expendable. The case is two pieces, designed for ease of assembly. The assembly includes a circuit card, one or more batteries, light sources, typically IR and visible LEDs, and a custom designed rotary switch. A diffuser is designed to enhance side visibility in all directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: James M. Cress, Sr., Richard D. Wallace, Corey L. Piepenburg, Jerry Huen, Michael J. Trzeciak, Mark S. Schlein, Bruce Archambault
  • Patent number: 7262707
    Abstract: A message sign alert device including a housing having a planar message display window and a first visual alert window positioned on a periphery of the planar message display window. Within the housing are a message display section, a first visual alert section, and a control unit that operates the first visual alert section and the message display section for providing a visual attraction to the display of a message on the message display section. A planar display unit in the message display section includes a plurality of light emitting message elements and projects through the planar message display window at a substantially normal angle to the planar message display window. The first visual alert section has at least one light emitting element positioned adjacent to the first visual alert window for projecting through the first visual alert window at an oblique angle relative to the planar message display window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Assignee: Pro-Lite, Inc.
    Inventor: Andy K. F. Kaoh
  • Patent number: 7259691
    Abstract: Accordingly, a primary object of the present invention is to provide a novel safety alert sign which provides a uniquely attention-getting and highly visible warning to oncoming drivers during both daylight, and, particularly twilight and dusk through the nighttime hours.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2007
    Inventor: James Julian Kimbrough, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7259655
    Abstract: A signal device for attracting the attention of a service provider. The signal device has a body with a tapered base adapted to fit into a neck of a bottle and a slot in a lower end of the base for balancing the signal device on a rim of a drinking vessel. An intermittent light source is provided in the top of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2007
    Inventor: J. Douglas Potts