Signal Light Systems Patents (Class 340/332)
  • Patent number: 5635902
    Abstract: A school bus stop sign (10) of the type rotatably coupled to a school bus (18) and movable between a retracted position adjacent to the school bus (18) and an extended position extending outwardly from the school bus (18) is disclosed. The bus stop sign (10) is characterized by an array of light emitting diodes (34) disposed on the bus stop sign (10) to provide illumination thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 3, 1997
    Inventor: Peter A. Hochstein
  • Patent number: 5633623
    Abstract: A safety device in the form of a compact, battery-operated, personal signalling system for providing light signals for personnel monitoring and detection purposes while operating under hazardous conditions. The device includes a light source that can emit either visible light or non-visible infrared light as periodic flashes. A light emission multiplier is provided between the light source and a protective, overlying panel to increase the visibility of the emitted light. The light emission multiplier is in the form of a thin sheet of vinyl plastic that includes a plurality of pyramidal microprisms on an outwardly facing surface. The microprisms operate to multiply the number of light emission points, thereby increasing the visibility of the safety device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 27, 1997
    Inventor: James P. Campman
  • Patent number: 5621379
    Abstract: An emergency locator signal light system, suitable for installation at a residence or business, which in a monitor mode is responsive to the dialing of a predetermined emergency telephone number, such as "911", to enter a command mode. In the command mode, the system is responsive to predetermined tone dialing signal sequences, which are herein termed "Star Codes", to activate an included signal light device. Exemplary "Star Codes" are "*1" for a medical emergency, whereupon red and white lights alternately flash; "*2" for a fire emergency, whereupon a white light flashes; and "*3" for a police emergency, whereupon blue and white lights alternately flash. The "Star Codes" can be dialed either locally from any telephone set or other dialing device at the residence or business from which the "911" emergency call is placed, or by an emergency telecommunicator who makes a decision to activate the flashing lamps in view of the nature of a particular emergency following a verbal description by an emergency caller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 15, 1997
    Inventor: Sean Collins
  • Patent number: 5612665
    Abstract: In order to provide specific information, e.g. concerning emergency exits on ships, in aeroplanes, in buildings, in specific land areas etc. there is provided a device in the form of a profile strip (1) along the path which has to be followed. The profile strip (1) is preferably installed along the walls in the form of a handrail. The profile strip (1) is designed in certain areas for the insertion of information supplying means (2) which may consist of signs and/or light panels and/or sound devices and/or direction indicating lugs or grooves. In the strip there may be cavities for providing any necessary cables for activation of the means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 18, 1997
    Inventor: Arne Gerhardsen
  • Patent number: 5610586
    Abstract: A golf cart control and monitoring apparatus, includes a signal transmitter, at least one antenna, a signal receiving and processing device, and an event log device. The signal transmitter transmits a plurality of electromagnetic signals, each signal being representative of a position with respect to a restricted area of a golf course. The signal receiving and processing device receives the electromagnetic signals radiating from the antenna and provides output signals representative of the location of the cart with respect to the restricted area, where at least one of these output signals is representative of the golf cart being located in the restricted area. The event log device is responsive to the signal receiving and processing device and generates historical log of how long and how many times the golf cart was located within golf course restricted areas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 11, 1997
    Assignee: Cart Watch, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas Zeytoonjian, Frederick Zeytoonjian, Sr., Harold Kramer, Paul Allen
  • Patent number: 5602522
    Abstract: A visual signaling system is provided incorporating strobe light means which emits flashes of light at a constant rate, as distinguished from a random rate, despite variations in input voltage applied to the system. The system enables predetermined signals to be perceived by persons in high decibel areas or by heating impaired persons, and multiple signaling units may be incorporated in a multistation system whereby the strobe lights in each of the signaling units all flash simultaneously at a synchronized rate, as distinguished from independently or at random rates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1997
    Assignee: Gentex Corporation
    Inventor: John R. Pacelli
  • Patent number: 5594410
    Abstract: An enhanced emergency warning and escape system is taught. The system can advantageously be combined with existing smoke or fir detector technology to share detection technology and activate additional electrical equipment for improving or simplifying the escape or emergency condition. As part of the system, an electrical switch, which is used under normal circumstances for an electrical device (such as a light fixture), is automatically activated when a detection occurs. A remote control device also allows user activated alarm conditions where, preferably, a smoke detector produces an alarm which can be distinguished from a fire alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1997
    Inventors: Michael Lucas, James M. Klotz, Frank Farfan, S. Warren Hall
  • Patent number: 5594409
    Abstract: The preferred embodiment of the invention comprises proximity actuated signalling apparatus, for use in restaurants and the like, permitting a customer to conveniently inform service personnel that service is desired. A local unit positioned within a convenient distance of the customer is actuated by the customer touching the unit to turn on a light emitting indicator. Optionally, a transmitter is actuated to generate a radiated signal which turns on one or more remote indicators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1997
    Inventor: Edward J. Shank
  • Patent number: 5592144
    Abstract: A lamp device for communicating moods between users having a base with a plurality of individually illuminatable elements extending from the base and two control units remote from the base for regulating the illumination of the elements. In a preferred embodiment, the illuminatable elements are in the form of five translucent flames of various heights containing two small electric bulbs at their bases for selectively producing colored illumination of each. Appropriate circuitry is disposed in the base member and connected to each of the external control units which may be used to activate the bulbs individually or collectively. The control units may each have five settings designed to supply power in a synchronized manner to the bulbs within the flame elements. Two persons involved in using the lamp for communication each operate a respective control unit which may be concealed, if desired, and by which a level of illumination may be selected to indicate, for instance, the level of interest of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1997
    Inventor: James W. Greene
  • Patent number: 5581230
    Abstract: An illuminated door handle assembly includes a door handle seamed to a door at a defined location and moveable between latching and unlatching positions, a signal generator for transforming energy into a signal and an energy receiver in communication with the signal generator for receiving the signal therefrom and conducting the signal to the door handle such that the signal is emitted from the door handle to indicate the location thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1996
    Assignee: Amerisafe Corporation
    Inventor: Robert R. Barrett
  • Patent number: 5576688
    Abstract: A signal light system includes an oscillator for generating pulse waves, a counter coupled to the oscillator, a controller connected to the counter, a decoder connected to the controller for receiving signal from the oscillator. A number of gates couple the decoder to a number of lamps for energizing all of the lamps when receiving low potential and for energizing the lamps in series when the gates receives no low potential. Another controller is connected to the gates for propagating low potential to the gates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 19, 1996
    Inventors: Jun-Da Wu, Chen Ting-Yen, Lin Tien-Wang
  • Patent number: 5574423
    Abstract: A self-diagnostic circuit for an emergency lamphead is disclosed that is effective during standby operation of the lamphead to indicate whether the lamphead is capable of operating in an emergency mode. The self-diagnostic circuit includes a high-impedance circuit path connected in series with the lamphead and including an indicator, such as an LED, which is energized by a battery current passing through the circuit path and lamphead during the standby mode operation. The battery current is insufficient to illuminate the lamphead, but is sufficient to energize the LED whenever proper electrical continuity exists through the lamphead. A second high-impedance circuit path may be connected in parallel with the lamphead, in order to energize a second LED when proper continuity does not through the lamphead.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1996
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: David A. Vosika, Robert S. Feldstein
  • Patent number: 5572183
    Abstract: A laser light fire evacuation system, and a method for its use, is provided including a source of laser light in the visible spectrum which is directed into multiple vertical columns of light extending from the ceiling to the floor of a hallway or corridor, in which the multiple columns are sequenced from left-to-right or from right-to-left during a fire to appropriately direct persons to the nearest safe exit. Each column of laser light is nearly invisible when the smoke density in the air is at a low level, however, as the smoke density increases, the laser light beam will increase in perceived intensity and consistency. In one embodiment, the laser light source is directed toward a rotating mirror which redirects the light into a rotating beacon as the mirror rotates. Several fiber optic cables are located around the periphery of the rotating mirror and intercept the light beam, thereby having laser light directed down each of the fiber optic cables, in sequence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1996
    Inventor: Gary L. Sweeney
  • Patent number: 5559492
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 24, 1996
    Assignee: Simplex Time Recorder Co.
    Inventors: Albert J. Stewart, Lawrence G. Stanley
  • Patent number: 5555454
    Abstract: A remote alert system includes an electrical signal transmitting unit located at a first location and a receiving unit located at a second location remote from the first location. The signal transmitting unit includes an electrical circuit either disposed in a module which fits between a light socket and a light bulb of a security light unit or integrated directly in the circuitry of the security light unit. The electrical circuit electrically interconnects the light socket with the light bulb so as to cause illumination of the light bulb in response to activation of the security light unit from an "off" to "on" condition. The electrical circuit also produces and broadcasts an electrical signal in response to such activation of the security light unit. The signal receiving unit includes a housing mountable at the second location and an electrical circuit disposed in the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 10, 1996
    Inventor: Kent L. Dees
  • Patent number: 5521578
    Abstract: A combination address display device and doorbell control assembly are provided wherein the doorbell control assembly controls the supply of power to a backlighting assembly of the display device from existing wiring for the doorbell. The display device comprises a flat modular housing which pivots open to permit insertion of a display sandwich therein. The latter includes a sheet containing address numerals and the like a well as protective and appearance enhancing sheets. The backlighting assembly includes a reflector element having stepped openings therein in registration with the address numerals. The doorbell assembly includes a pair of lighted pushbuttons for controlling actuation of the doorbell and a lamp that directs a light beam below the assembly for use in finding one's keys or a similar purpose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1996
    Inventor: Ivan DelValle
  • Patent number: 5489887
    Abstract: A waiter signaling device comprising a pole having a lower base and an upper tip end, a light source coupled to the tip end, a power source for energizing the light source, a switch mechanism connected to the pole and operable in one orientation to energize the light source, thereby generating a signal indicating that service is required, and in another orientation to deenergize the light source, thereby generating a signal indicating that service is not required, and a coupling mechanism for coupling the base end of the pole to a table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 6, 1996
    Inventor: Miguel A. Porras
  • Patent number: 5477205
    Abstract: An alarm system incorporates a three-position wall switch which replaces a conventional two position switch, connected in circuit with a conventional exterior light fixture. The conventional light bulb in the exterior fixture is replaced by an adapter to which is connected an alarm unit and which receives the exterior light bulb. The three-position switch operates the light bulb at one half normal intensity in its normal mode and in its alarm position illuminates the bulb at its rated intensity and at the same time activates the alarm unit. The alarm may include a strobe light and horn for providing a visual and audible alarm. The alarm unit fits within the exterior light fixture and may include an auxiliary switch to allow it to be enabled or disabled as desired, while allowing the light bulb to provide two levels of brightness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 19, 1995
    Inventor: Lawrence J. Burns
  • Patent number: 5457507
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a back lighted clap board or slate used for the identification of rolls, takes, and scenes and like information in the making of films that is back-lit with an electroluminescent panel. The electroluminescent panel is activated by the movement of the clap board arms with respect to each other such that, when the arms open, the electroluminescent panel is illuminated. A timing circuit determines the length of time the electroluminescent panel will be lit. Either a mechanically actuated switch or a Hall effect switch may be used to control the illumination of the electroluminescent panel. In addition, a photodiode may be used to detect light intensity and activate the circuit only when the light falls below a predetermined intensity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 10, 1995
    Inventor: Philip N. Berardi
  • Patent number: 5453731
    Abstract: A two color, light emitting diode having a green diode and a red diode therein is incorporated with a control switch for an automotive accessory. The control switch is normally green in color providing a finger target when the system is not operated because only the green diode emits light. The diode is amber in color upon closing the switch because the red diode and green diode are both illuminated. The two color, light emitting diode is used for accessory systems such as electric windows, traction control systems, rear window defrosters and other accessory systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 26, 1995
    Assignee: Chrysler Corporation
    Inventor: Robin H. Beyer
  • Patent number: 5453729
    Abstract: A solar warning device and in particular to one including: a solar chip device having a mushroom-like top with an annular flange and a rectangular recess for receiving solar cells, said rectangular recess being filled with silicon for fixing the solar cells in position, said solar chip device further having two downwardly extending legs; a reflecting device having a cylindrical casing with reflecting lines at an inner surface and a neck at a top, a light mounting disposed within said cylindrical casing and having a top plate, a base plate, a light-emitting diode fixing plate, and a pillar, said fixing plate being formed with a plurality of holes for keeping light-emitting diodes in place, a printed circuit board mounted under the base plate of said light mounting, and a conducting pin mounted on a positive pole of said printed circuit board and extending downwardly through said cylindrical casing; and a fixing device having a cylinder provided at a top with external threads adapted to engage with internal thr
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 26, 1995
    Inventor: Chiu-Tsai Chu
  • Patent number: 5446439
    Abstract: An emergency lighting controller includes a first circuit responsive to an alarm signal or warning signal. The first circuit accepts positive or negative polarity input signals and detects the presence or absence of a signal in order to produce an output signal clearing a monostable timer circuit. The monostable timer circuit produces a predetermined duration signal upon receiving an alarm signal. In accordance with the predetermined duration signal produced by the monostable timer circuit, an astable timer or oscillator circuit activates and deactivates an output control circuit in accordance with the frequency and duty cycle settings of the astable timer circuit. The output control circuit switches power on and off to a relay or a lighting circuit to provide a visual indicator of an emergency state that may require evacuation of the premises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1995
    Assignee: Smartronics, Inc.
    Inventors: John C. Kramer, Robert O. Melvin
  • Patent number: 5446440
    Abstract: A centrally powered, low voltage emergency sign and control circuit using high voltage AC power simultaneously providing continuous low voltage DC power to a plurality of emergency signs connected in parallel through a plurality of branch circuits and to continuously charge a single battery backup to all of the emergency signs should AC power fail. Each emergency sign is illuminated by electroluminescent diodes which are individually connected in parallel and in series throughout the emergency sign. When a fire alarm or emergency situation exists, the control circuit pulses the low voltage DC power to the emergency signs causing the LEDs to flash regardless if the control circuit is powered by high voltage AC power or backup battery power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1995
    Assignee: Lederlite Corporation
    Inventors: Cornel T. Gleason, John L. Davis
  • Patent number: 5446441
    Abstract: A mobile signal lamp and lamp mount unit including a housing covered with a lampshade to hold a lamp assembly, a battery box fastened to a downward back chamber on the housing, and a signal lamp mounting device connected to the housing, the signal lamp mounting device including a belt for fastening to the user's wrist or waist or the bicycle frame, etc., a base frame turned about a screw on the buckle of the belt and retained in position by a rotary member, and a supporting frame pivotably connected to the base frame to hold the housing and fixed in the desired angular position by a screw bolt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1995
    Inventor: Yan-Chang Su
  • Patent number: 5438313
    Abstract: An emergency flasher circuit for use with motor vehicles comprising an emergency switch, a signal generator for generating a signal having a frequency of approximately 10 Hz, and logic circuitry for selectively applying the signal to the headlight(s), and/or to one or both of the left and right turn indicator lights, for alerting other drivers to the presence of the motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 1, 1995
    Inventors: Steven Henderson, David Kernaghan
  • Patent number: 5438319
    Abstract: A golf cart control and monitoring apparatus, includes two antennas spaced from each other, two transmitters, two receivers, two alarms, an event counter, a time accumulator and a display for the events counted and the time accumulated. The two antennas are each disposed about a golf course restricted area and one antenna is disposed outside of the other. One transmitter transmits a first electromagnetic signal from one antenna which signal is received by the first receiver. The second transmitter transmits a second electromagnetic signal from the other antenna, which signal is received by the second receiver. The first alarm generates an alarm indicating that a golf cart is approaching a restricted area of a golf course in response to the first output from the first receiver. The second alarm generates another alarm, distinct from the first alarm, and an external alarm indicating that a golf cart has entered the restricted area in response to the second output from the second receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 1, 1995
    Assignee: Cart Watch, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas Zeytoonjian, Frederick Zeytoonjian, Sr., Harold Kramer, Paul Allen
  • Patent number: 5422623
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 6, 1995
    Assignee: Federal Signal Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph F. Bader, Ward Gieffers, Michael Benner, Kent A. Kekeis, Dennis J. Hilburger
  • Patent number: 5412381
    Abstract: The invention relates to signalling, particularly road signalling, means. A considerable variety of illuminated and reflective signalling means are known to give advice to the driver of a particular vehicle and of great value to the driver of a vehicle during the hours of darkness on unlit roads or in inclement weather where mist and fog shroud a road. Such known signalling means cannot satisfy the important need to give advice to a driver of a vehicle of the presence of another vehicle closely ahead, and which is of particular importance in misty or foggy conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 2, 1995
    Assignee: Astucia-Sociedade de Desenvolvimiento de Patentes, LDA
    Inventor: Martin E. Dicks
  • Patent number: 5400009
    Abstract: A strobe alarm system which includes multiple normally self-timed strobe circuits connected in a common loop to a fire alarm control panel, and a sync control circuit, which may be incorporated in the fire alarm control panel, for causing the strobes to flash in synchronism at a predetermined rate which will insure that a person viewing the multiple strobes would not see flash rates higher than the predetermined synchronized rate, which is preferably less than five flashes per second. The sync control circuit does not interfere with the supervision functions of the alarm system, and when an alarm condition is present it supplies power to the strobe circuits which it then interrupts once every flash cycle to cause a sync trigger circuit in each strobe to fire its flashtube, and to reset the internal timer of each strobe to ready it for arrival of the next sync signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 21, 1995
    Assignee: Wheelock Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Kosich, Edward V. Applegate
  • Patent number: 5400019
    Abstract: A portable traffic control device for temporary use capable of both automatic and manual operation which portable control device can be raised or lowered by hand and having a horizontal boom which folds down to a vertical position and with an adjustable and collapsible tripod stand and an electrical control circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 21, 1995
    Inventor: Alfonso J. Riscoe, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5371489
    Abstract: An alerting apparatus includes a pair of separate first and second lights capable of providing respective illuminations that are different from one another, an electrical power supply cord connected to the first and second lights for providing a supply of electrical power to activate the lights, and a motion detector connected to the electrical power supply cord and the first and second lights for activating the first and second lights for predetermined times in response to sensing motion in a predetermined area. The first light can provide a constant white illumination, while the second light can provide a flashing red illumination. Also, an alarm can be connected to the motion detector and the electrical power supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 6, 1994
    Inventors: Lee J. Carroll, Diana D. Harahan
  • Patent number: 5363092
    Abstract: A Portable signaling device comprises a housing having a first face and a second face, the housing being provided with a first opening in the first face and a second opening in the second face. The first opening is smaller than the second opening. A lamp is mounted to the housing for motion between a first position in which the lamp is oriented towards the first opening and a second position in which the lamp is oriented towards an interior of the housing. A shifting component is movably mounted to the housing and engageable with a lamp mount for operating on the mount to move the lamp between the first position and the second position. An electric power supply is provided in the housing. Contacts are provided in the housing for operatively connecting the power supply to the lamp at the first position and the second position only. At other positions of the lamp, the lamp is disconnected from the power supply and is therefore de-energized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 8, 1994
    Inventor: Jovanka Starchevich
  • Patent number: 5355116
    Abstract: A strobe alarm circuit includes a voltage source circuit which has a capacitor connected across its output terminals. The voltage source circuit is connected to a flash circuit which includes a flashtube shunted by a trigger circuit. The trigger circuit causes the flashtube to flash when the voltage across the voltage source circuit capacitor reaches a predetermined threshold firing voltage. A resistor divider network is employed in the trigger circuit to ensure that the flashtube is triggered at virtually the same instant as the voltage across the capacitor exceeds the trigger threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 11, 1994
    Assignee: Wheelock
    Inventors: Ed Applegate, Joseph Kosich, John W. Curran
  • Patent number: 5319365
    Abstract: A portable hazard-warning light assembly (10) that is designed to warn on-coming vehicular traffic of a hazardous traffic/road condition. The assembly (10) consists of an elongated tubular body (12) having attached to its top edge (12A) a removable lens head (18) that houses an incandescent light bulb (62) that may be connected to a flasher (36). The bulb and flasher are powered by a single battery (60) that is housed within a battery compartment (20) located at the bottom edge (12D) of the body (12) and that includes a threaded battery compartment cover (28). The body (12) also has attached a slidable leg ring (34A) that has pivotally attached four retractable legs (34D) that are each supported by a leg brace (34H). To extend the legs, the ring (34A) is grasped and lowered. Conversely, to retract the legs, the ring is moved to its upward position. To apply power to the light bulb (62), the cover (28) is rotated which allows the battery (60) to move upwards and complete the electrical power circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 7, 1994
    Assignee: Alltrade Inc.
    Inventor: George Hillinger
  • Patent number: 5264826
    Abstract: An emergency flasher circuit for use with motorcycles and bicycles comprising an emergency switch, a signal generator for generating a signal having a frequency of approximately 10 Hz, and logic circuitry for selectively applying the signal to one or both of the left and right turn indicator lights and a headlight of a motorcycle or bicycle, for alerting drivers of motor vehicles to the presence of the motorcycle or bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1993
    Inventors: Steven Henderson, David Kernaghan
  • Patent number: 5262756
    Abstract: A solar powered warning light apparatus including a solar module that charges a single rechargeable Ni-Cad battery is operable for intermittently flashing a xenon flash tube. A recharging network of the apparatus allows the solar cell module to recharge the battery when sunlight is impinging upon the solar module for providing virtually maintenance-free and long term operation of the warning light by the battery during the dark or twilight hours when warning lights are needed to warn vehicle drivers of road hazards or environment hazards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1993
    Inventor: Tseng L. Chien
  • Patent number: 5227776
    Abstract: A combined alarm, security and rescue system includes room boxes (33a-33j, 35a-35j) in associated rooms, a two way communication system (29a-29C, 30a-30C, 31a-31b, 32a-32j, 34a-34j) between a number of room boxes and a central operator station, and a central operator station. The system can be used in hotels, hospitals, cruise vessels, offshore living quarter platforms, and other places where many people usually are gathered within a definite area. In case of an emergency situation, the system provides essential information at the operator station for rescue crew, and thus acts as a decision tool for the rescue leader. The system also provides personal safety equipment like breathing masks (contained in the room boxes), that can be used by the people in the rooms in order to break through areas filled with smoke. Further, necessary equipment for a person-to-person communication between the central operator and the people present in the actual rooms is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1993
    Inventor: Carl E. Starefoss
  • Patent number: 5223678
    Abstract: A replacement elevator call button unit which may be electrically connected to an elevator controller having first and second power supply lines and having an elevator call registering terminal. The replacement unit includes an electronic switch (preferably a silicon controlled rectifier) which is electrically connectible between the power supply lines. A normally open push button is electrically coupled to the switch in order to switch the first switch from an inoperative state in which current flow between the power lines is prevented, to an operative state in which such current flow is permitted. A voltage divider is provided for electrical connection across the elevator call registering terminal, in series with the switch means. Cross firing between two or more corresponding replacement units is accomplished by a second electronic switch (preferably a photo diode) optically coupled to the first switch, without requiring any additional wiring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1993
    Assignee: S.B.M. Electronic Specialties Ltd.
    Inventor: Robert A. McCurrach
  • Patent number: 5202660
    Abstract: A portable visual signalling device consists of a plurality of different colored lights and a plurality of switches in a housing. Each light may correspond to a specific designation. The device is powered by a self contained rechargeable battery and recharging circuitry. A switch can be flipped to activate a colored light and provide a visible message. It does not have to be professionally installed. The device can be moved easily from place to place if needed. One or more lights can be activated by remote control. A buzzer may also be activated with one of the lights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 13, 1993
    Inventor: Randall L. Hartman
  • Patent number: 5177461
    Abstract: A flashing alarm device responsive to audible signals produced by a smoke detector when the smoke detector senses a smoke condition, the alarm device including a circuit with a microphone portion for responding to audible signals produced by the smoke detector and an amplifier circuit portion for amplifying signals produced by the microphone, a switch circuit portion having a control input connected to the output of the amplifier circuit portion, and another circuit portion including a battery, a timer circuit, and a light bulb, the battery having a connection to the amplifier circuit and to the timer circuit, the timer circuit and the light bulb being connected in series with the switch circuit portion for energizing and de-engergizing the light bulb whenever the switch circuit portion is in its conducting condition. The device may also include a housing for the components and the device may optionally be constructed to operate on transmitted and received radio frequency signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1993
    Assignee: Universal Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: W. James Budzyna, William A. Johnson, David J. Howe
  • Patent number: 5140301
    Abstract: A guidance apparatus in case of emergency evacuation comprising a laser which is disposed within a building or the like in such way that a laser beam emitted from the laser is directed in the direction in which evacuees must escape or is directed from the side of an emergency exit toward the interior of the building or the like; abnormal condition detection means for detecting the occurrence of an abnormal condition in the building or the like and generating a detection signal representative of the occurrence of an abnormal condition; and a control unit which is connected to the laser and the abnormal condition detection means and which, in response to the detection signal, energizes the laser. When an abnormal condition such as fire occurs within the building or the like, the detection means detects the occurrence of an abnormal condition and generates a detection signal, in response to which the laser in energized to emit a laser beam directing the direction in which evacuees must escape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1992
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Seidenko
    Inventor: Yasuo Watanabe
  • Patent number: 5122779
    Abstract: A light sequencer for a toy having a simple way for individually varying the on and off times of each stage of a chain or ring. Each stage has a light controlling amplifier/switch whose gain is individually controlled by a hysteresis element. When the voltage across the hysteresis element is below its set breakdown voltage, it non-conducts, thereby causing the amplifier/switch to have negative gain, and the controlled light is not lit. When the voltage across a hysteresis element equals or exceeds its set breakdown voltage, it `fires` into a highly-conductive state, causing the amplifier/switch to have very high gain, and the controlled light is lit. The hysteresis element remains in its conductive state until the voltage across it drops below recovery voltage level. Then it switches back to non-conductive state, causing the amplifier/switch to have negative gain, and the controlled light is not lit. The difference between breakdown or `firing` voltage and recovery voltage is the hysteresis factor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1992
    Inventors: Roger W. Lehmann, Michael I. Satten
  • Patent number: 5103204
    Abstract: A portable visual signalling device consists of a plurality of different colored lights and a plurality of switches in a housing. Each light may correspond to a specific designation. The device is powered by a self contained rechargeable battery and recharging circuitry. A switch can be flipped to activate a colored light and provide a visible message. It does not have to be professionally installed. The device can be moved easily from place to place if needed. One or more lights can be activated by remote control. A buzzer may also be activated with one of the lights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1992
    Inventor: Randall L. Hartman
  • Patent number: 5095502
    Abstract: A unit for detection and signalizing of functional defects for public lighting. A unit characterized by the fact that it comprises, for the one part, an emitter module (21) with which each street lamp is equipped, preferably located in its post, at the level of the junction box, the emitter module being equipped with a detector for current consumption (23) using the alternative network of the supply line as the carrier of a detection signal, and for the other part, of a receiver module (22) located in the supply cabinet of the same zone, this receiver module managed by a microprocessor which transmits a defect signal to the control room over a telephone line. This invention is of interest for manufacturers and installers of materials, equipment and components for public lighting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1988
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1992
    Inventor: Jean-Luc Finzel
  • Patent number: 5070327
    Abstract: A signalling mechanism includes a switch having a handle manually movable between first, second and third positions. The switch controls the operation of a light to be attached to it, a porch light or yard light, for example. A circuit interrupting device is activated when the switch is the second position and intermittently illuminates the light. The mechanism also has a position indicating device, a small lamp for example, which is controllably activated for indicating a position of the switch. The signalling mechanism is constructed and arranged to be received in a standard switch outlet box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1991
    Inventor: Dale Ellingson
  • Patent number: 5045833
    Abstract: An improved actuator device is disclosed which comprises a combination of activators, switches, indicator lights and power outlets for providing an alarm to those persons of impaired hearing. The device comprises a housing which has electrical power supplied thereto and switches for transmitting the received electrical power therefrom. An indicator circuit is provided to signal the activation capability of the device. Associated with the device is a pneumatic pressure switch which is activated when increased pneumatic pressure is applied to the switch, pressure being applied through a squeeze bulb and tubular conduit connecting the squeeze bulb to the switch. Other indicators and sensor switches can be associated with the device to alert one of impaired hearing to multiple dangerous situations or events.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 3, 1991
    Inventor: Edward R. Smith
  • Patent number: 5032834
    Abstract: A display and communication system includes display panels located at several locations which are separated from each other. Each panel has a matrix of plug-in modules and each module has lights and a switch device which can be operated to change which light on that module is illuminated, thereby indicating the status of a physical location, such as a table in a restaurant. The plug-in modules can be arranged on all of the panels to resemble the arrangement of the physical locations which are being represented. When the switch is operated to change the illumination of a light in a module, this change is communicated to all other panels, causing the counterpart modules in the other panels to exhibit the same illumination scheme.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 16, 1991
    Assignee: Sara E. Kane
    Inventors: Michael S. Kane, David L. Kane
  • Patent number: 5001455
    Abstract: A portable water-resistant device for signaling vehicles such as a taxi is formed of a lightweight, transparent plastic and is battery powered. The signaling device is provided with a first housing, a second housing movable relative to the first housing, the first housing containing a light source and a power source and reflective symbols affixed to the outer face of the first housing. The light source is selectively electrically connectable to a power source, such as a battery, which is activated when the second housing moves relative to the first housing and contact points extending from battery terminals and protruding through the first housing meet with contact points of the second housing. Additionally, in another embodiment the signaling device may be provided with an outer movable housing having a switch, an inner housing containing a light source and a power source electrically connected to the switch, and reflective symbols on the outer face of the inner housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1991
    Assignee: Maniolos/Starchevic
    Inventor: Jovanka Starchevich
  • Patent number: 4993058
    Abstract: An illuminated house light display system and a telephone operated emergency indicator device for activating the display. The circuit responds to the dialing of the numeric emergency sequence "9-1-1" and the test sequence "#-9-1-1" and activates the display to provide a visual warning signal to guide summoned emergency personnel. Reset may be accomplished anytime by lifting the handset and dialing a "#". The generally cubical address display is externally mounted in a clearly visible place. The illuminated display comprises a resilient housing preferably fitted with a translucent, marked screen bearing the appropriate indicia. A bright strobe warning light is housed within the address box. The electronic circuit is mounted within a control box, and it is interconnected with the telephone line via a conventional jack. The circuit comprises a decoder which senses the dialing of digits, and an Initiation circuit interconnected with the decoder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 12, 1991
    Inventors: Edward W. McMinn, Thomas L. Lloyd, Jack Middleton
  • Patent number: RE34677
    Abstract: An automatic emergency locator system detects tone dialing of an emergency number, such as 911. Upon detecting this number the system turns on a visual signalling device, such as a flashing strobe light. The signalling device helps personnel responding to the emergency call locate the emergency. The visual signalling device remains on for a set period. Authorized persons can reset the system and turn off the signalling device by dialing a predetermined reset number.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 26, 1994
    Inventors: Donald K. Ray, Larry G. Taylor