Abstract: An illuminated sign is for traffic control, in particular for road traffic, and includes light sources for generation of the sign and a monitoring device for functional monitoring of the light source. The light sources are embodied as light diodes and the monitoring device is embodied as a device for the limited current loading of the light diodes. The functional monitoring of said sign can be achieved with reasonable technical requirements in both the deactivated and activated state thereof.

Abstract: A tamper-indicating fastener has a cylindrical body with threads extending from one end along a portion of the body, and a tamper indicating having a transducer for converting physical properties of the body into electronic data; electronics for recording the electronic data; and means for communicating the recorded information to a remote location from said fastener. The electronics includes a capacitor that varies as a function of force applied by the fastener, and non-volatile memory for recording instances when the capacitance varies, providing an indication of unauthorized access.

Abstract: The system tests front panel lights, such as LEDs, on an electronic instrument, the front panel lights being normally used to indicate the status of selected output conditions of the instrument. The system also uses the LEDs to communicate additional information concerning the instrument, in particular the operation of the clock system for the instrument. The system includes a plurality of timers, each timer being associated with one front panel LED. The user sets the timers a specific amount of time (e.g. one second) apart, with each LED being programmed with a different timer. The LEDs light in succession in response to the clock reaching a preselected time. If one or more of the LEDs do not light, failure of the LEDs is indicated. If the LEDs do not light in proper order or at the expected time, investigation of the clock system is indicated.

Abstract: A light-source lamp unit includes a light-source lamp unit detachably mounted, and a CPU constituting a drive and controller for the light-source lamp unit. The CPU senses lamp information obtained by a lamp-information storing block in the light-source lamp unit, pertaining to a lamp power rating, lamp life and whether a lamp is new or not, and starts counting operation time when the lamp is lit. The CPU compares the lamp life sensed and the operation time count, and forces the lamp to extinguish when the life of the light-source lamp expires. Prior to this action, the CPU gives a warning display before the life expiration of the lamp by a fixed duration of time, to warn that lamp replacement is needed. Because the lamp-information storing block in the light-source lamp unit stores the information about the lamp type and characteristics of the lamp, the light-source device can properly drive the lamp to light it and determine the lamp life even when a light-source lamp unit of a different type is used.

Abstract: The system tests front panel lights, such as LEDs, on an electronic instrument, the front panel lights being normally used to indicate the status of selected output conditions of the instrument. The system also uses the LEDs to communicate additional information concerning the instrument, in particular the operation of the clock system for the instrument. The system includes a plurality of timers, each timer being associated with one front panel LED. The user sets the timers a specific amount of time (e.g. one second) apart, with each LED being programmed with a different timer. The LEDs light in succession in response to the clock reaching a preselected time. If one or more of the LEDs do not light, failure of the LEDs is indicated. If the LEDs do not light in proper order or at the expected time, investigation of the clock system is indicated.

Abstract: Device-related information is communicated from a device to external equipment, such as test equipment as part of final production of the device. This is done by generating a modulated signal (e.g., by pulse code modulation) that represents the device-related information, and supplying the modulated signal to an indicator light in the device, whereby the indicator light generates a modulated light signal that conveys the device-related information. The indicator light may be a light emitting diode that, during normal operation of the device, indicates a status condition of the device, such as whether the device is on or off.

Abstract: An integrated radio tower light controller and alarm reporting device is described that is made up of solid-state current sensing modules that monitor the AC current distributed to the various lights/beacons and report various alarm modes. In addition, a solid-state flasher module is used to flash the radio tower beacons at the FAA/FCC specified rate along with reporting various alarm modes. Two mechanical relays are also included for reporting failures with the flasher module and AC power failure. Connecting terminals and testing switches are included to connect to various power leads, alarm leads, and to test the various functions of the device.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an illuminance detection alarm device including a main body, an illuminance sensing head, a power switch, a buzzer switch, an indication lamp unit, and an alarm range setting switch. The illuminance sensing head may detect the illuminance of light of the surroundings. The indication lamp unit includes a green indication lamp, a red indication lamp and a yellow indication lamp. The alarm range setting switch may be used to set multiple stages of different alarm ranges according to the practical requirements of the user. Thus, the reader may notice the illuminance of light of the surroundings, so as to obtain a better illumination effect, thereby preventing the reader from being short-sighted due to the bad illumination surroundings.

Abstract: A system for monitoring the state and performance of an analysis device, such as a capillary electrophoresis instrument. The system includes software for operating the analysis device and system management software for monitoring the device, generating a report on the state of the device and selecting an appropriate response based on this report. The response can include altering the function of one or more parts of the device, or signaling the need for a repair to be performed, for example.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for cycling power to a HID ballast and amp in order to reduce the possibility of arc tube rupture or non-passive end of life light source failure with a warning indicator indicating impending momentary power outage. The apparatus comprises a lamp, a ballast, and a microcontroller operable to generate a warning indicator after expiration of a pre-selected period of time. The warning indicator indicates termination of power to the lamp for a predetermined period of time, by alternatively dimming and increasing the light output of the lamp. After expiration of the pre-determined period of time, the microcontroller restores the power to the ballast. The above described process is repeated periodically in order to reduce the risk of arc tube rupture.

Abstract: In a light-emitting-diode lamp, there is provided an input impedance-changing circuit for establishing a low input impedance circuit when the light-emitting-diode lamp is missingline turned off. This input impedance-changing circuiting comprises Shunt circuit section, and a detector circuit section. The shunt circuit section includes a low impedance element and a controllable switching device connected in series. The detector circuit section detects turning off of the light-emitting-diode lamp and, in response to such detection, close the switching device to thereby cause electric current to flow through the shunt circuit section in order to simulate lower input impedance of the light-emitting-diode lamp. When the light-emitting-diode lamp replaces a conventional traffic signal incandescent lamp, the input impedance-changing circuitry prevents the conflict monitor of the already installed traffic-light lamp system to detect a high lamp impedance and accordingly a faulty lamp.

Abstract: A method for determining the remaining operating life of a fluorescent lamp comprising cathodes, when the fluorescent lamp is a part of a fluorescent lamp circuit, which in addition to the fluorescent lamp includes a ballast, for example a capacitor and an inductance. In accordance with the method the remaining operating life of the fluorescent lamp is deduced from a phase difference of a voltage applied over a cathode in relation to another current or voltage phase in the fluorescent lamp circuit.

Abstract: An electrical tell tale system for trailers that consists of a unique tell tale monitor which is light weight which houses different colored light emitting diodes which define each individual trailer circuit. The tell tale monitor has an attached modular cable and modular plug which is connected by a modular socket to the main control unit. The main control unit has two protruding leads which are connected in series with the vehicles trailer wiring harness by connectors. The system works by scanning the trailer signals passing through the main control unit and specially set, wound resistive current sensing coils, which close a reed switch at the correct current which in turn sends a low voltage signal through the modular connection and through the modular cable to the tell tale monitor which will illuminate a certain light emitting diode to notify if the trailer circuit is operational.

Abstract: A lighting system contains at least one controllable first light (NL), which is connected to a first current supply (L, N), and at least one controllable emergency current light (SL), which is connected to a further emergency current supply (P, N), separate from the first current supply (L, N). All lights have respective control devices associated therewith, all control devices being connected to a common bus (D1, D2). A monitoring device (5) issues a monitoring signal corresponding to the condition of the first current supply (L, N) onto the bus (D1, D2), which monitoring signal is evaluated at least by the control device of the emergency current light (SL) for the recognition of a disruption and for activation of an emergency current operation.

Abstract: A lighting system with a digital micromirror device which forms a digital gobo system that is controllable on a pixel level. The device includes a number of sensitive electronic elements. The device is controlled by two different controllers: a digital signal processor which is effectively the number crunching portion, and a controller, which controls the functions of the light. The controller also logs errors into a registry, such as a non-volatile memory. A field programmable gate array is used for a number of purposes, including to form the ports. One of those ports is a tech port, which is used to detect status of the light such as faults.

Abstract: Remote monitor and control of an airfield lighting system. A processing system local to the airport is provided in communication with the airfield lighting system for monitor and control thereof, the airfield lighting system producing airfield information for processing by the local processing system. The local processing system connects to a global communication network such that the airfield information is accessed from a remote location disposed on the global communication network.

Abstract: An automatic shut-off and indication device for an electric heating appliance is provided which includes: a sensor (2) for sensing usage of the appliance and for providing a usage-signal (US) indicating a non-usage of the appliance; a switch (10) for off-switching a heater (12) of the appliance in response to a switching signal (SS) derived from the usage-signal (US); a sensor (4) for sensing orientation of the appliance and for providing an orientation signal (OS) for indicating different orientations of the appliance; a selector (18) for activating an indicator (22) in response to the switching signal (SS), the indicator (22) signaling the off-switching of the heater (12); and an indication timer (8) for providing a time delay between off-switching the heater (12) and activating the indicator (22), which time delay is dependent on the orientation signal (OS). The shut-off of the heater (12) is signalled to the user by the indicator (22).

Abstract: A signaling device for marine vessels that is functionally and operationally similar to the directional devices (i.e., turn signal devices) found in automobiles including an actuating means selectively connectable to a sound source that is connected to a sound controller, and to a light source that is connected to a light controller. The actuating means of the present invention has the same look, feel, and is operated in the same manner as those provided in an automobile. The present invention thus reduces the dependency of the vessel operator on his or her memorization of the applicable required sound and optional light maneuvering signals for operation of the vessel in inland and international waters while at the same time helping to ensure that the required signals are given.

Abstract: A monitor for detecting failures in the installation of neon gas sign transformers has an electronic circuit in the transformer compartment to turn the transformer off in the event any failure occurs. The monitor uses a programmed digital micro-controller connected to the transformer and supplies an exciting current to a “TRIAC” that turns on/off the primary coil of the transformer under an AC voltage of the distribution network and also supplies a current to turn on a red LED when failures occur and a green LED that indicates if any power is being fed from the distribution network. When the sign lights properly, the TRIAC is activated, the transformer remains activated and the red LED remains inactivated while the green LED remains activated. When there is any failure the monitor detects the failure immediately and the transformer is turned off and six seconds later it is automatically turned on again. If the cause of the failure disappears, the transformer continues operating regularly.

Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention is a system for monitoring failure of a signal having lighting configured to indicate a predetermined alarm condition. The system includes a detector/transmitter responsive to lighting parameters at least during the predetermined alarm condition to generate a signal indicative of the lighting parameters; an attachment member configured to attach the detector/transmitter to a lamp socket of the lighting in an orientation in which the detector/transmitter assembly is responsive to light rays from a lamp mounted in the lamp socket when the lamp is on; and a receiver/concentrator responsive to the signal indicative of the lighting parameters to generate a signal indicative of predetermined fault conditions of the lighting.

Abstract: A combination current sensor and relay has an improved housing. In one aspect, the housing includes light emitting diodes on an upper surface that indicate open circuit and short circuit conditions. In another aspect, the housing includes a securement structure for a circuit board that includes the transformer and switches for device operation, together with aligned openings therein for routing wires to external devices. In another aspect, a multiple position switch is included on the upper surface that indicates multiple modes of operation of the device. In another aspect, the housing may be assembled in multiple parts by affixing a first portion to a support, a circuit board to the first portion, and a second portion to the first portion. In another aspect, the housing is suitable for engagement to alternatively a junction box and a duplex box. In another aspect, the configuration of the upper surface provides usability advantages.

Abstract: A gas detection system for use in multiple zones. The system includes a plurality of gas sensor assemblies, a central control, and an alarm. The alarm includes a plurality of indicator lights that are disposed at the central control, with a respective indicator light being in electrical communication with an associated gas sensor so as to allow the respective indicator light to illuminate when the associated gas sensor detects the gas and provide a visible alarm that is detected from a central location remote from the plurality of gas sensor assemblies, and a sound generator that is disposed at each sensor assembly, with a respective sound generator being in electrical communication with an associated gas sensor so as to allow the respective sound generator to activate when the associated gas sensor detects the gas and provide an audible alarm that is detected at the associated gas sensor.

Abstract: A light-source lamp unit 100 includes a light-source lamp unit 1 detachably mounted, and CPU 101 constituting drive and control means for the light-source lamp unit. CPU 101 senses the lamp information borne by lamp-information storing block 5 in the light-source lamp unit 1, about a lamp power rating, lamp life and whether a lamp is new or not, and starts counting operation time when the lamp is lit. CPU 101 compares the lamp life sensed and the operation time count, and forces the lamp to extinguish when the life of the light-source lamp expires. Prior to this action, CPU 101 gives a warning display at a time that is earlier than the life expiration of the lamp by a fixed duration of time, to warn that a lamp replacement is needed.

Abstract: A light-source lamp unit includes a light-source lamp unit detachably mounted, and a CPU constituting a drive and controller for the light-source lamp unit. The CPU senses lamp information obtained by a lamp-information storing block in the light-source lamp unit, pertaining to a lamp power rating, lamp life and whether a lamp is new or not, and starts counting operation time when the lamp is lit. The CPU compares the lamp life sensed and the operation time count, and forces the lamp to extinguish when the life of the light-source lamp expires. Prior to this action, the CPU gives a warning display before the life expiration of the lamp by a fixed duration of time, to warn that lamp replacement is needed. Because the lamp-information storing block in the light-source lamp unit stores the information about the lamp type and characteristics of the lamp, the light-source device can properly drive the lamp to light it and determine the lamp life even when a light-source lamp unit of a different type is used.

Abstract: A method for determining the remaining operating life of a fluorescent lamp, when the fluorescent lamp is connected to a starter and the fluorescent lamp comprises cathodes. The method is characterized by phases determining the amount of remaining active material in the cathode and producing an alarm signal depending on the amount of remaining active material in the cathode.

Abstract: It is an object of the invention to provide a LED array, in which faults of all the diodes can be instantaneously detected, even when an optical printer is operating, and various kinds of faults of the LEDs can be discriminated. In the LED array comprising plural LEDs arranged along a lone, each LED is provided with a comparator, which compares a terminal voltage of the LED with a variable reference voltage. The kind of fault of the LED can be discriminated on the basis of a relation between the reference voltage applied to the comparator and an output voltage thereof.

Abstract: To reduce or eliminate difficulties inherent in manual reporting of signal light failures, especially at remote railroad grade crossings, there is provided, in one embodiment of the present invention, a system for monitoring failure of a lighted signal that includes lighting configured to flash during a predetermined alarm condition. The system includes a power supply configured to power the lighting during the predetermined alarm condition and to provide a timing signal indicative of power being applied to the lighting; a detector/transmitter responsive to the timing signal to detect lighting parameters when the lighting is flashed on to generate a signal indicative of the lighting parameters and to generate a signal indicative of the lighting parameters; and a receiver/concentrator responsive to the signal indicative of the lighting parameters to generate a signal indicative of predetermined fault conditions of the lighting.

Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to a system and method for monitoring the level of light surrounding an automatic teller machine (ATM). In accordance with one aspect of the invention, a system includes a plurality of light sensors disposed in varying locations around the ATM. Preferably, some sensors will be disposed near the ATM, while others will be dispersed at various distances surrounding the ATM, in order to effectively monitor the lighting around the ATM. A circuit is provided within the ATM in communication with the sensors. In addition, a radio frequency (RF) transmitter is disposed within the ATM, and is configured to communicate the status of the sensors to a remotely located receiver. Finally, a receiver is interfaced to a telephone line forming part of a public switched telephone network (PSTN), wherein the receiver is configured to receive the status of the sensors communicated from the RF transmitter and to communicate the status information to a remote system via the PSTN.

Abstract: A system which monitors the functioning of safety and signal light circuits on a trailer and verify the lights are operating properly. The system connects into the signal and safety light circuits of the trailer and includes a unit which can be positioned within view of an operator of the vehicle towing the trailer. The unit has an appropriate visual display which warns the operator if one of the safety or signal light circuits have ailed. The visual display can be light emitting diodes which provide an appropriate visual signal. The unit can also include an audio signaling device to warn of a failure in the signal and safety light circuit.

Abstract: A lamp has a tungsten filament within an evacuated glass bulb and connected to electrical conductors. Connected between the two electrical conductors are a series-connected neon and resistor. In use, the tungsten filament provides a primary light-emitting device, and the neon provides a secondary light-emitting device. The light intensity emitted by the filament is very much greater than that emitted by the neon. Therefore, in normal use, the neon will hardly be seen. However, in the event that the filament fails, the neon continues to emit light. With the main filament extinguished, the light emitted by the neon becomes quite visible, and serves to indicate the presence of electric power at the lamp contacts. Therefore, a user can switch off the power supply to the lamp at the local switch, the neon indicating when this has safely been done.

Abstract: The invention is a lamp burnout detecting unit with a branch connection function which provides the advantage of having simple wiring and that the wire harness thereof can be automatically laid. The lamp burnout detecting unit includes an upper casing on which terminal press-in type connectors and a burnout detecting circuit section 16 are mounted. A printed circuit board has a branch connection function. A lower casing 19 engages the upper casing to accommodate the printed circuit board therebetween. The connectors and the burnout detecting circuit section are connected to each other through a wiring pattern of the printed circuit board. One connector is connected to a wire harness, which is connected through switches to a battery. The other connectors are connected to a wire harness extended from the lamps.

Abstract: A speed detecting device is adapted for use with a direct current motor, and includes a coupling circuit adapted to be connected electrically to a power input line of the motor, a one-shot circuit, a converter circuit, a comparator, and an alarm device. The one-shot circuit is triggered by a current-coupled pulse output, which is generated by the coupling circuit and which corresponds to current flowing through the power input line, and generates a pulse train signal in a form of a series of constant-width pulses, where spacing between adjacent ones of the constant-width pulses varies according to instantaneous operating speed of the motor. The converter circuit receives the pulse train signal, and generates a test signal having a magnitude that varies in accordance with the spacing between the adjacent ones of the constant-width pulses to provide an indication of a detected average operating speed of the motor.

Abstract: A device for current or voltage supply in a vehicle trailer or vehicle support which is connected with a pulling vehicle through at least one braking light conductor and an indicating conductor and has at least one electrical consumer, the device has an indicator formed so that a current flows through the indicator permanently and its intensity is selected so that in an error-free operation the indicator does not respond, while a voltage supply to an electrical consumer of the vehicle trailer is performed by the current.

Abstract: An electrical circuit for turn signal, hazard signal, and brake signal lights of an automotive vehicle has first and second relays each having an energizable coil and contacts which are in a first configuration when the coil is not energized and a second configuration when the coil is energized. A brake signal switch is operable to supply relative high steady electrical current to the first and second relay contacts, the contacts of the first relay when in the first configuration conducting the relative high steady electrical current to left rear light and the contacts of the second relay when in the first configuration conducting the relative high steady electrical current to a right rear light.

Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to a system and method for monitoring the level of light surrounding an automatic teller machine (ATM). In accordance with one aspect of the invention, a system includes a plurality of light sensors disposed in varying locations around the ATM. Preferably, some sensors will be disposed near the ATM, while others will be dispersed at various distances surrounding the ATM, in order to effectively monitor the lighting around the ATM. A circuit is provided within the ATM in communication with the sensors. In addition, a radio frequency (RF) transmitter is disposed within the ATM, and is configured to communicate the status of the sensors to a remotely located receiver. Finally, a receiver is interfaced to a telephone line forming part of a public switched telephone network (PSTN), wherein the receiver is configured to receive the status of the sensors communicated from the RF transmitter and to communicate the status information to a remote system via the PSTN.

Abstract: A verification and monitoring system for signal and status indicators and voice and metering features which is particularly suited for a taxi cab is disclosed. The operational status of the indicators are initially verified each time the ignition system of an associated taxi cab is energized. The verification circuit detects the failure of individual indicators even though a plurality of indicators may serve as a single visual display. The voice and metering features are continuously verified.

Abstract: A brake lamp device operatively connected to the brake of a car used to decrease the speed of the running car or stop the car, which sequentially turns on a plurality of brake lamps in response to pressure applied to a brake pedal. The brake lamp device includes a plurality of brake lamps attached to the rear surface of the car at either side of the car, a diaphragm hydraulically connected to a master cylinder of the car generating a brake driving pressure, the diaphragm being applied with the brake driving pressure, and a pressure sensor unit adapted to receive the brake driving pressure via the diaphragm, thereby sequentially turning on the brake lamps in accordance with the brake driving pressure. The brake lamp device can surely inform to drivers of following cars of whether the turning-on of the brake lamps is associated with a decrease in the speed of the car or an abrupt stopping of the car.

Abstract: A lighting system for a towed off-highway vehicle has a left and right hazard warning lamps that flash in unison when the vehicle is not turning. When the vehicle is turning, the hazard warning lamp on the side of the turn flashes, while the other hazard warning lamp is illuminated steadily. Left and right turn indicator lamps are operated by a control circuit that receives signals which operate the hazard warning lamps. The control circuit responds to those signals by rendering the turn indicator lamps inactive when the vehicle is not turning, and operates the left and right turn indicator lamps in the same manner as the left and right hazard warning lamps, respectively, when the vehicle is turning.

Abstract: The tester includes mating electrical connectors which permit the tester to be positioned between the respective plugs of the respective electrical cables running between a towing vehicle and from a trailer. The container for the tester preferably has magnetic strips along its bottom surface to permit temporary attachment to either the tongue of the trailer or the rear of the towing vehicle. The essential features of the tester are limited to only two simple single-pole/double-throw switches, positioned in tandem, and three diodes arranged as a simple "OR" gate in combination with an audio signal device. This simple circuitry permits a single operator to check (a) the integrity of the wiring harness connected to the towing vehicle's lighting circuits, without leaving the driver's seat of the towing vehicle, and (b) the integrity of the trailer lighting with two simple switch adjustments.

Abstract: A display device having driving circuits one for each of its light-emitting elements permits easy inspection of the driving circuits. The display device is formed as a fluorescent display tube that has an array of light-emitting units each consisting of a light-emitting element and its driving circuit. The display device further has a multiple-stage AND circuit consisting of 2-input AND circuits connected sequentially. One input of each stage is connected to the output of one of the driving circuits, another input of the first stage is connected to a power line, and the output of the last stage is connected to an inspection terminal, so that inspection is performed by checking whether a driving voltage appears at the inspection terminal. By activating all the driving circuits, whether they are functioning properly when they are in operation is checked globally; then, by deactivating one of the driving circuits, whether they are functioning properly when they are not in operation is checked individually.

Abstract: An system is provided for testing emergency lighting units using a receiver connected to the emergency lighting unit and a portable transmitter operable remotely with respect to the emergency lighting unit. The emergency lighting comprises a transfer relay for switching a battery between a primary power source and a lamp. A TEST button and the receiver each include a normally closed contact switch connected in series with each other, as well as with a primary power source input and transfer control circuitry. The transmitter generates encoded signals for wireless transmission to the receiver as long as a control switch on the transmitter is being activated by a user. The receiver receives and decodes the encoded signals and opens its normally closed relay as long as encoded signals are being received, causing the transfer control circuitry to activate the transfer relay to switch the battery from the primary power source to the lamp.

Abstract: A display apparatus for illuminating a switch is provided which includes a switch having an on and off position to control power from a power supply to a device. A light source is located near the switch to illuminate the switch. A diode is electrically connected between the on position of the switch and the light source. A first resistor is electrically connected between the off position of the switch and the light source. The first resistor is electrically in parallel with the switch and the diode. When the switch is in the off position, power is provided to the light source via the first resistor whereby the light source illuminates at a first brightness. When the switch is in the on position, power is provided to the light source via the diode whereby the light source illuminates at a second brightness which is greater than the first brightness.

Abstract: The alarm circuit uses speed detection so that at a fan slowdown speed below a critical low level, a buzzer alarm starts sounding at a low warning volume and then as the fan slows down further the volume increases; that is, the buzzer volume or the buzzing frequency is inversely proportional to the fan speed. The circuit advantageously can be used for a wide range of fans. A pulse detector of a first stage comparator of this circuit detects the pulses or speed of the fan. More particularly, a power supply isolation resistor with an AC coupling capacitor block the DC voltage levels at the fan so that only the AC or pulse component of the fan is picked up. The isolation resistor prevents the power source from attenuating the pulses. The second stage comparator of the circuit sets the fan speed at which the alarm is to start buzzing and powers the buzzer accordingly. Particularly, the pulses are amplified by the first stage comparator and they periodically discharge a charging capacitor.

Abstract: A power semiconductor device (2) has a first main electrode (S) for coupling to a first supply line (3), a second main electrode (D) coupled to a first terminal (4) for connection via a load (L) to a second voltage supply line (5) and an insulated gate electrode (G) coupled to a control terminal (GT) for supplying a gate control signal to enable conduction of the power semiconductor device (2). An open-circuit detection arrangement is integrated with the power semiconductor device (2) for providing an indication that a load (L) coupled to the power semiconductor device (2) is open-circuited. The detection arrangement has a reference current (Ir) providing arrangement (7, R3, R4, R7, Q1, Q2) and a current deriving arrangement (Q3, Q4) for deriving a current (Id) dependent on the voltage at the second main electrode (D).

Abstract: Various embodiments are shown for sensing when an exterior vehicle light is turned on and for displaying the condition that the exterior vehicle light is on or operating. Solar cells are used to sense that the exterior vehicle light is on and to provide an electrical current to a display unit that indicates that the exterior vehicle light is on. A wireless arrangement is also disclosed as well as an all-in-one unit is disclosed for sensing when a exterior vehicle light is on and for displaying by a visual and/or audio indication that the exterior vehicle light is on.

Abstract: A flood light lamp removal alarm for security lights mounted on or near a home, wherein the lights are designed to turn on automatically if a motion detector is triggered and the ambient light level is low, detects if any of the flood light lamps are unscrewed or loosened, either prior to a burglary or during the attempt to disable the flood light assembly. A central contact of a lamp socket is modified so that it maintains contact with the lamp therein for a longer distance as the lamp is unscrewed out, so that the alarm is triggered before the light from the lamp is disabled. Alternatively, current detectors verify when a lamp is loosened from a socket by detecting changes in current draw across the socket.

Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus and method for electronically monitoring and testing the operational status of emergency luminare in a building at predetermined times for predetermined intervals, accurately, quickly, non-intrusively. The apparatus includes a programmable processor pre-programmed with programmed information for producing electrical input signals at predetermined times for predetermined intervals, a plurality of switches receiving the electrical input signals and electronically coupled between the programmable processor and the plurality of emergency luminare for deactivating the power source and activating the battery source, and a plurality of detectors electronically coupled between the emergency luminare and the programmable processor for collecting data of the operational status of the emergency luminare. The programmable processor receives and stores the data in a memory device for monitoring by a user accessible computer.

Abstract: A combination smoke, carbon monoxide and hydrocarbon detector including a smoke detection mechanism adapted to transmit a smoke signal upon the detection of smoke, a carbon monoxide detection mechanism adapted to transmit a carbon monoxide signal upon the detection of carbon monoxide, and a hydrocarbon detection mechanism adapted to transmit a hydrocarbon signal upon the detection of hydrocarbon. Next provided is an audio alarm mechanism situated within the housing and connected to the each detection mechanism. The audio alarm mechanism is adapted to emit a high intensity audio alarm upon the receipt of a signal, whereby the type of audio alarm is unique to the signal received. Further provided is control circuitry having a first mode of operation when only one signal is received from the detection mechanism whereby the control circuitry continuously transmits the one signal to the audio alarm means upon the receipt thereof.

Abstract: An adaptive method of detecting a lamp outage condition is implemented in a vehicle flasher system including a plurality of lamps. The method includes the steps of: a) initializing an adaptive flasher current variable when the vehicle flasher system is powered on; b) monitoring the vehicle flasher system to detect a driver flasher signal request; c) measuring current output from the plurality of lamps in the vehicle flasher system; d) determining whether the level of measured current is indicative of a lamp outage condition by comparing the measured current to the adaptive flasher current variable; e) setting the adaptive flasher current variable equal to the measured current if the measured current falls within a predetermined learning range, thereby compensating for resistance changes in the flasher system over time to allow lamp outage detection; and f) returning to step b).

Abstract: A monitoring circuit for detecting a malfunctioning warning lamp circuit includes a first device for monitoring the voltage within the warning lamp circuit and a second device for monitoring the current through the warning lamp circuit. Each of the monitoring devices has an output which is connected to a decision device. The first device generates a first output signal when the monitored voltage is greater than a predetermined voltage and a second output signal when the monitored voltage is less than the predetermined voltage. The second device generates a first output signal when a current flows through the lamp and a second output signal when there is no current flowing through the lamp. The decision device is responsive to the output signals from the monitoring devices to generate a failure signal when the warning lamp circuit malfunctions.