Plural Bulbs Or Filaments Patents (Class 340/642)
  • Patent number: 11555833
    Abstract: A system having a control unit, which has a housing in which at least one processing unit of the control unit is situated. The system further includes an electrical ground connection situated outside the housing; a first ground line by which the control unit and the ground connection are electrically connected; a second ground line by which the control unit and the ground connection are electrically connected; and a sensor device, which is developed to monitor an electrical first ground current flowing through the first ground line and an electrical second ground current flowing through the second ground line. The sensor device has an XMR sensor for monitoring the first and the second ground current.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2023
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Fei Xie, Rafael Benzler, Volker Weeber
  • Patent number: 11398143
    Abstract: Technologies for an emergency evacuation system include a system operator and one or more emergency lighting units located in a building. Each emergency lighting unit further includes a processor, communication circuitry configured to communicate with the system operator, and a light indicator configured to be illuminated to indicate an exit of the building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2022
    Assignee: ABB Schweiz AG
    Inventors: Christian Poirier, Marc Rondeau, Sarwarul Chowdhury
  • Patent number: 11234319
    Abstract: Systems and methods for backup power sources and controls for Power over Ethernet light sources are provided. In one example embodiment, a lighting system includes one or more light sources configured to receive power over one or more Ethernet cables. The lighting system also includes a battery pack comprising an energy storage medium. The battery pack can be configured to provide power to the one or more light sources over one or more Ethernet cables. The lighting system can also include an output control circuit configured to manage delivery of power from the battery pack to the one or more light sources.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2022
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Pritam Yadav, Douglas Matthew Hamilton
  • Patent number: 11100778
    Abstract: An electronic label tag (100) and electronic label tag system (300) wherein electronic label tag (100) comprises machine readable identifier module, communication module for receiving product related information, attachment means for attaching the electronic label tag (100) to product, and display for displaying product related information. The machine readable identifier module of the electronic label tag (100) is configured to activate the communication module and/or display in response to a command received by the machine readable identifier module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2021
    Assignee: MARISENSE OY
    Inventor: Hannu Karhuketo
  • Patent number: 10803715
    Abstract: Technologies for an emergency evacuation system include a system operator and one or more emergency lighting units located in a building. Each emergency lighting unit further includes a processor, communication circuitry configured to communicate with the system operator, and a light indicator configured to be illuminated to indicate an exit of the building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2020
    Assignee: ABB Schweiz AG
    Inventors: Christian Poirier, Marc Rondeau, Sarwarul Chowdhury
  • Patent number: 10621874
    Abstract: A device arrangement for improving the detection quality of ground situation representation systems and traffic guidance or traffic management systems, in particular at an airport, comprises at least the following components interacting with each other: a lighting unit having at least one controllable lamp, and an earth's magnetic field sensor for determining the position, direction of movement, orientation, and/or speed of an object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2020
    Assignee: FRAPORT AG FRANKFURT AIRPORT SERVICES WORLDWIDE
    Inventor: Bjoern Daniel Vieten
  • Patent number: 10235878
    Abstract: The application relates to an intelligent traffic cloud control system configured to acquire and centrally analyze a large amount of field data in a traffic system, and to control the traffic system. Unlike a traditional traffic directing and controlling system in such an operating mode that data are acquired and transmitted respectively by different sensing devices, and then collected, analyzed, and processed by a central system, the intelligent traffic cloud control system according to the invention analyzes and processes centrally a large amount of data through field control servers communicating over IP address based broadband buses, and performs adaptive traffic control, traffic regulation enforcement, position tracking, coordinated control, and other service functions through integrating edge computing and cloud computing at a plurality of adjacent field control servers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2019
    Assignee: KYLAND TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD
    Inventor: Ping Li
  • Patent number: 10050393
    Abstract: A modular electronic apparatus includes an electric box, an insert, and optionally one or more electric modules. The insert is configured to be inserted at least partially into an internal space of the electric box and connect to electric wires of a building. The insert is further configured to receive the electric modules such that they can be powered from the electric wires without directly connecting to them. The electric modules can engage with the insert and be easily replaceable without the need to reconnect the electric wires. Each of the electric modules can be one of the following: a programmable electric socket (“smart” socket), traditional electric socket, programmable electric switch (“smart” switch), traditional electric switch, dimmer, touch screen panel, speaker, personal computer, television device, lighting device, audio player, multimedia device, network hub, a router, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2018
    Assignee: Sony Interactive Entertainment LLC
    Inventor: Thomas Calabrese
  • Patent number: 9223037
    Abstract: Systems and methods to ensure correct operation of a semiconductor chip in the presence of ionizing radiation is disclosed. The system includes a semiconductor chip, a first radiation detection array incorporated in the semiconductor chip, and at least one additional radiation detection array incorporated in the semiconductor chip. a processor determines a region of the semiconductor chip affected by an incident radiation particle by analyzing a trajectory of the radiation particle determined from locations of sensors hit by the radiation particle in the first radiation detection array and the at least one additional radiation detection array. The processor determines whether corrective action is needed based on the region of the semiconductor chip affected by the incident radiation particle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2015
    Assignee: GLOBALFOUNDRIES INC.
    Inventors: Ethan H. Cannon, Michael J. Hauser, Timothy D. Sullivan
  • Patent number: 8937557
    Abstract: The application discloses a method and apparatus for providing a desired warning signal for a lighting unit. A coded warning system is provided employing a detection module (320) and a signal generating module (330), wherein the detection module is configured to obtain information regarding the detection of one or more operating parameters of the lighting unit and the signal generating module generates a desired warning signal (331) selected from a plurality of warning signals, upon determination that one or more of the operating parameters are abnormal operating parameters. Each warning signal of the plurality of warning signals is indicative of a specific abnormal operating parameter or a known combination of specific abnormal operating parameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips N.V.
    Inventors: Damien Loveland, Stefan Poli
  • Patent number: 8917084
    Abstract: The present invention is an efficient high voltage sensing mechanism that operates only when an individual needs to test the voltage across a wire. The present invention attaches around a tested wire using a jaw and a hook. The hook is tensioned using an expansion spring. The operator propels the hook outwards from the jaw, around the tested wire; thereafter, the expansion spring retracts to latch onto the tested wire against the jaw. An on-off switch is integrated into the mechanical hook device. As the hook is propelled outwards, the on-off switch moves into the “on” position, which powers the electrical processing and voltage analysis equipment. Once the hook is returned to the initial position, the on-off switch moves to the “off” position. This arrangement allows the present invention to remain unpowered for any instance a wire is not being tested. The present invention detects voltage through capacitive coupling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Assignee: Synergistic Technology Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: John G. Konopka, Alex K. Choi, David A. Konopka
  • Patent number: 8912898
    Abstract: In one general aspect, a request to determine a status of a first of a plurality of advertising devices is received. The advertising devices are spatially separated. Operating conditions of the first advertising device are identified. The status of the first advertising device is determined based, at least in part, on the operating conditions. A presentation including information indicating the status of the first advertising device is transmitted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Assignee: Lites Out, LLC
    Inventors: Brent D. Arnold, Brian K. Reinle, Scott H. Galaise
  • Patent number: 8665114
    Abstract: The present invention provides a display for traffic control within a region of traffic flow, comprising an array of lights arranged for illumination to indicate to traffic seeking to negotiate the region in accordance with a first path of travel the likely movement of traffic seeking to negotiate the region in accordance with a second path of travel different from the first, and thus whether said traffic seeking to negotiate the region in accordance with said second path of travel has a right of way over traffic seeking to negotiate the region in accordance with said first path of travel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Inventor: Derek Cozens
  • Patent number: 8635035
    Abstract: Methods and systems for monitoring operation of an LED string. An exemplary system includes an LED string, a circuit that supplies current to the LEDs, a current measuring circuit that measures current through the LEDs, a voltage measuring circuit that measures voltage across the LEDs, and a temperature sensor that measures temperature proximate to the LEDs. A processor calculates a predicted string voltage based on a predefined voltage-current curve, number of LEDs, a predefined temperature coefficient value, the measured string current, a measured junction temperature, a life curve function, a prestored calibration string current value, a prestored calibration string voltage value, a prestored junction calibration temperature and an accumulated time value. The process also calculates an error value based on the predicted string voltage and a measured string voltage and generates an indication that there is a failure in the LED string if the calculated error value is greater than the predefined error limit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Len De Oto, Richard Policy, Stan Hodge
  • Patent number: 8502688
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a process of configuring a standalone self-supplied numeric controlled relay for providing phase and earth over current protection to electrical systems by accurate current measurement. The arrangement for current measurement with control algorithms is provided for power control by providing amplified and conditioned current for optimization between the current to power an electronic circuit and the fidelity of a measured current waveform so that they both are at the acceptable levels at the same time. This disclosure describes the current sensing and associated algorithm for power control in a truly self-powered relay.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: ABB Technology Ltd
    Inventors: Niraj Suthar, Vijay Shah, Maulik Vyas, Bernhard Deck
  • Patent number: 8284751
    Abstract: The invention relates to a communications system for airport signalling devices. In said system, the series or parallel circuits used for supplying electricity to the signalling devices are used for the communication between a control device, a central communication device and signalling devices. The OFDM method is preferably used to transmit signals and decentralised communications devices, which are assigned to the signalling devices and preferably have elements for preparing the signals, are dynamically configured in an adaptive manner during the active operation of the system by a central communication device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: ADB BVBA
    Inventor: Klaus Kock
  • Patent number: 8237583
    Abstract: A method and system for a display system is provided. The system includes a screen surface that includes a plurality of luminous units, a controller communicatively coupled to the screen surface wherein the controller is configured to address at least one of the plurality of luminous units, and a luminous unit sensor having a field of view including at least a portion of the screen surface wherein the luminous unit sensor configured to receive an image of the luminous units in the field of view.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Michael Scott Mitchell, Samuel Robert Mollet
  • Patent number: 8063647
    Abstract: A testing apparatus includes a relay and a connector. The relay includes a coil, first and second single-pole double-throw (SPDT) switches. The first and the second SPDT switches include first and second contacts. The connector includes first and second hard disk drive (HDD) indicator pins, and first and second switch pins. The first contact of the first SPDT switch is grounded. The first contact of the second SPDT switch is connected to the power source. The first HDD indicator pin is connected to a power source. The second HDD indicator pin is connected to the second contact of the first SPDT switch and the second contact of the second SPDT switch. The first switch pin is connected to the power source. The second switch pin is grounded via the coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Zhen-Shan Cui, Lian-Zhong Gong
  • Publication number: 20110037604
    Abstract: A feedback circuit for a display sign has a number of lights. A resistor is coupled in series with the lights. A voltage measuring circuit is coupled to the resistor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2009
    Publication date: February 17, 2011
    Inventors: Charles Lee Lindsay, Charles Hunter Bush
  • Patent number: 7880629
    Abstract: A power supply device for supplying power to a communication device includes a power source, a first fuse, a second fuse, a voltage converter, a photo coupler, and a central processing unit (CPU). The voltage converter is configured for receiving first power signals from the power source via the first fuse and the second fuse, and converting the first power signals to second power signals. The photo coupler connected in parallel to the third resistor, configured for outputting a first electrical signal upon the condition that the first fuse and the second fuse are operational, and outputting a second electrical signal upon the condition that at least one of the first fuse and the second fuse is blown. The CPU is connected to the photo coupler, configured for generating an alarm message upon receiving the second electrical signal from the photo coupler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tsung-Hsi Lee
  • Patent number: 7859398
    Abstract: A method of maintaining and controlling a plurality of wireless light fixtures includes providing the light fixtures in a structure, wirelessly receiving respective operational data from each of the light fixtures at a central location, aggregating the received respective operational data to form an aggregation of operational data, and analyzing at least a portion of the aggregation of operational data. The method further includes performing one or both of (i) controlling the operation of a first selected one or more of the light fixtures based on a result of the analyzing step by wirelessly transmitting respective operational commands from the central location to each of the first selected one or more of the light fixtures, and (ii) causing a maintenance related action to be taken with respect to each of a second selected one or more of the light fixtures based on a result of the analyzing step.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: David L. Davidson, Charles J. Luebke
  • Patent number: 7777495
    Abstract: Provided are a device and a method of detecting signal lamps in a vehicle, in particular in a large vehicle, being provided with a plurality of signal lamps each being capable of switching between an OFF-phase and an ON-phase. The method includes the steps of during the OFF-phase of a vehicle signal lamp to be probed inducing a probing current by connecting an electric current generator to said vehicle signal lamp circuit, where the probing current is lower than the nominal current for the lamp in question. The next step is to detect the electric voltage level over the lamp circuit and determining vehicle signal lamp characteristics such as type and condition based on said electric voltage level detection. The result of the determination is that the signal lamp is a LED lamp being connected, when the detected voltage level is within a predetermined interval between a first voltage level and a second voltage level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Volvo Lastvagnar AB
    Inventor: Carl Mannerfelt
  • Patent number: 7772990
    Abstract: A signal monitor includes an alarm function module configured to compare a plurality of input signals associated with traffic control to a set of programmable criteria associated with predetermined events, and to produce a non-critical alarm signal when at least one of the set of programmable criteria is satisfied. This non-critical alarm signal—which is associated with programmable alarm conditions that do not require that the intersection enter the “flash” mode—is communicated to the controller, which may then log and/or transmit the non-critical alarm condition to a central station or maintenance point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Eberle Design, Inc.
    Inventor: Scott Richard Evans
  • Patent number: 7638948
    Abstract: An apparatus and method adapted to detect a failure in at least one lamphead of an emergency lighting system includes a signal generator and a failure sensor. The lamphead receives power from a power connection. The signal generator generates a monitoring signal having a voltage, which is operatively coupled to the power connection. The failure sensor detects a failure in the lamphead and modifies the voltage of the monitoring signal. The emergency lighting system may also include a plurality of lampheads. In this case, the failure sensor may detect a failure in at least one of the lampheads, and identify which of the plurality of lampheads has failed. The failure sensor may also be adapted to reduce the voltage of the monitoring signal in response to detection of the failure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.
    Inventors: Camille Descarries, Christian Briere
  • Patent number: 7602305
    Abstract: A feedback circuit for a display sign has a number of lights. A resistor is coupled in series with the lights. A voltage measuring circuit is coupled to the resistor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Assignee: Skyline Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles Lee Lindsay, Charles Hunter Bush
  • Patent number: 7378987
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for monitoring for Red Fail faults in a traffic signal control system. Traffic control signals generated by a traffic control unit are grouped into channels. Certain channels are specified for Red Fail testing in which all lights in a given channel are inactive at the same time. Channels which are not specified are not subject to Red Fail testing, but other conflict testing can still be performed on these unselected channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Assignee: Reno A & E
    Inventor: Allen Jacobs
  • Patent number: 7259685
    Abstract: A helicopter of the type having an electrical system, a landing light, a master switch and a power supply of between about 18-32 V for operating the electrical system when the master switch is in an on position also includes a landing light fault detector. The landing light fault detector includes a light switch for turning the landing lights on and off and circuit means for detecting a fault in the landing light and for providing a signal indicative of a fault whether or not the light switch is in an on or off position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2007
    Assignee: Safe Flight Corporation
    Inventors: Randall A. Greene, Paul Levine
  • Patent number: 7250872
    Abstract: A test device for at least one LED strip contains: a voltage source, by way of which a cold test voltage or a warm test voltage can be applied to a parallel circuit formed of a test resistor and the LED strip, and an evaluation unit which records the cold test current flowing when a cold test voltage is present and diagnoses an error if the cold test current deviates from a required value by an above-the-threshold amount. A test device contains a switching element connected in series with the test resistor and an error circuit connected to the at least one LED strip, which during the warm testing records an over-the-threshold deviation of a current flowing through the at least one LED strip from a pre-specified value and for an over-the-threshold deviation opens the switching element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Jürgen Klinger
  • Patent number: 7109886
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for monitoring for Red Fail faults in a traffic signal control system. Traffic control signals generated by a traffic control unit are grouped into channels. A parent-child relationship is established between some channels. When testing for a Red Fail fault, the control signals in both the parent channel and the child channel are examined. A Red Fail fault will occur only if all the control signals examined in both the parent and the child channel are inactive. The control signals examined in the child channel can be limited to the Green and Walk signals; or may include the Yellow signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: Reno A&E
    Inventor: Allen Jacobs
  • Patent number: 7102540
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: Siemens Airfield Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Edwin K. Runyon, Jess Murphy, Stephen Rauch, Joe Pokoj, John C. Stutz
  • Patent number: 7046132
    Abstract: A lamp monitor for a bus or other motor vehicle has a processor, a current sensor, a memory and a display for monitoring the current through the lamps. In program mode, the processor samples the current passing through the warming lamps and calculates an operating range. In operate mode, if the current sensor detects current passing through the lamp within the operating range, then a status lamp, located near the driver of the bus or motor vehicle, is illuminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Assignee: Emergency Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin P. Carpenter
  • Patent number: 7023353
    Abstract: A warning device including a status and function indicator circuit for indicating the status and function of the warning device. In a visual warning device such as a strobe light, the status and function indicator circuit includes a status output device such as an LED. The LED and associated circuitry are configured to indicate both proper operation of the visual warning device and, in the event of a device failure, will indicate whether the fault lies with circuitry for the visual warning device or simply with a warning output device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Electronic Controls Company
    Inventors: Tony J. Tewell, Hans J. Kuhr
  • Patent number: 7002453
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for remotely monitoring the status of a variety of illumination devices. A fiber optic cable coupled to a light fixture transmits a light display. Based on the light received, the status of the light is determined. The status is determined without the use of elegant and expensive electronics that are more subject to failure and with minimal power consumption.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventor: Anthony Edward Martinez
  • Patent number: 6982648
    Abstract: A light unit or indicating device for a vehicle (.e.g., a vehicle lighting unit, a vehicle indicating unit, reversing radars and other systems) has a shell, a light contained in the shell, and an electronics card mechanically associated with the shell. The electronics card is connected an electrical power supply and to a multiplexed bus of an on-board network. The card has a controller for the light that allows exchange of commands and information on status of the light unit over the multiplexed bus, and also has an internal bus connected to the controller and the light that allows exchange between them of commands generated by the controller and of the status information of the light unit. The unit may also have an ancillary component for implementing ancillary facilities such as light beam adaptation or automatic adjustment of the orientation of the light beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Assignee: Valeo Vision
    Inventors: Christophe Cros, Alexis Dubrovin, Patrick Lacombe
  • Patent number: 6930613
    Abstract: A device representing a simple means of multiplying the functionality of wiring in point to point control circuits such that fault tolerant, fault reporting circuits can be constructed with less wire. The circuit can employ the wiring on a continuous basis by the use of AC and a series arrangement that may combine sensors and command loads on the same single wire loop. A bi-directional current detector with switchable impedance over each polarity can form the device. The detector may be equipped with an electrically isolated man-machine interface that communicates with light to achieve input-output functions. Command functions may be issued by changing the current level within the circuit over each polarity of current flow to series mounted remote loads that are polarized with diodes. The whole circuit can be in triplicate for high reliability and fault tolerance and use a common return wire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Inventor: Robert Gardner
  • Patent number: 6867703
    Abstract: In the process of drilling a concrete in a building, many times contact and damage can accidentally be made with existing electrical conduit and the wires inside, or plumbing pipes. This damage can be avoided with a device which can indicate a grounded metal, such as a conduit, plumbing pipes, supporting frames or metal beam, all of which may be grounded to the existing electrical system. A safety protection circuit is incorporated into a power tool and includes at least one LED indicator connected to a low voltage power supply and to the body of the power tool to be illuminated when contact with grounded metal occurs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Inventor: Yulian Neykov
  • Publication number: 20040189479
    Abstract: A warning device including a status and function indicator circuit for indicating the status and function of the warning device. In a visual warning device such as a strobe light, the status and function indicator circuit includes a status output device such as an LED. The LED and associated circuitry are configured to indicate both proper operation of the visual warning device and, in the event of a device failure, will indicate whether the fault lies with circuitry for the visual warning device or simply with a warning output device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2004
    Publication date: September 30, 2004
    Inventors: Tony J. Tewell, Hans J. Kuhr
  • Patent number: 6788195
    Abstract: A monitor for a light circuit comprising a power source, a light being monitored, and a sense resistor. A first voltage amplifier circuit connected to the light circuit has a first output signal representing the voltage across the sense resistor. A second voltage amplifier circuit connected to the circuit has a second output signal representing the voltage across the sense resistor. A microprocessor is configured to receive the output signals from the first and second voltage measuring circuit and is programmed to calculate the current to the light based on the first and second digital output signals, compare the calculated current against a threshold current, and initiate a failure signal if the calculated current is less than the threshold current. A visual indicator activates if the microprocessor initiates a failure signal, whereby the activated indicator notifies that the light is not operating correctly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Assignee: Osborne Coinage Company
    Inventors: Todd Robert Stegman, Matt Michael Leonard
  • Patent number: 6774785
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Assignee: Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventor: Edmund O. Schweitzer, III
  • Patent number: 6720883
    Abstract: A warning device including a status and function indicator circuit for indicating the status and function of the warning device. In a visual warning device such as a strobe light, the status and function indicator circuit includes a status output device such as an LED. The LED and associated circuitry are configured to indicate both proper operation of the visual warning device and, in the event of a device failure, will indicate whether the fault lies with circuitry for the visual warning device or simply with a warning output device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Assignee: Electronic Controls Company
    Inventors: Hans J. Kuhr, Tony J. Tewell
  • Publication number: 20030160707
    Abstract: A monitoring and control system controls multiple lights and monitors their operation through two-way communication over power lines. An interface is connected to receive control signals for at least one of the lights from the central computer and to transmit monitoring data concerning the lights to the central computer. The interface communicates over the power lines with light controlling and monitoring devices in the field to transmit the control signals over the power lines to the light controlling and monitoring devices and to receive the monitoring data over the power lines from the light controlling and monitoring devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2003
    Publication date: August 28, 2003
    Applicant: Safegate International AB
    Inventors: Rolf Norman, Goran Backstrom, Lars Millgard
  • Patent number: 6603302
    Abstract: A circuit tester (1) for testing circuit integrity in a series-wired string of Christmas fairy lights powered by domestic mains electricity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Inventor: Frank Joseph Prineppi
  • Patent number: 6583731
    Abstract: An indicator controller (18), an optical assembly (10) having the indicator controller (10), a traffic light system that comprises at least one of the optical assembly (10) and a method for fault indication by the indicator controller (10) is disclosed. A control signal from a control signal generator (20) of the indicator controller (18) is disabled to block off current supply to a diode chain of three light emitting diodes (LEDs) of an array (12) of LEDs. Input to the control signal generator (20) has a frequency setting section that sets the control signal at a predetermined frequency. Consequently, the three LEDs are made to blink according to the predetermined frequency. The control signal is generated when the amplitude of current supply to the array (12) exceeds a threshold setting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Assignee: Singapore Technologies Electronics Ltd.
    Inventors: Hua Tek Chan, Tai Leong Cheng, Muthuraman Ramaswamy
  • Patent number: 6573840
    Abstract: In an arrangement for supervising and controlling field light units (20) at an airport, a regulator provided with a monitoring unit for power supply and for monitoring the light units is arranged individually for each light unit (18,20) to regulate the light intensity of the light units and to receive information as to their operational status. In a preferred embodiment, each light unit comprises two separate light sources that can be alternately and separately connected into circuit in case of failure to either of the light sources. Each light unit is provided with an electronic unit including a regulator, monitoring unit, and modem for power supply to the light unit and for monitoring the operation of the light unit. Each light unit is individually addressable from a control central for the airport. A ground traffic control system can be integrated into the field lighting system by connecting suitable presence detectors to the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: Airport Technology in Scandinavia
    Inventors: Rolf Norman, Goran Backstrom, Lars Millgard
  • Patent number: 6556017
    Abstract: A Method and an arrangement providing detection of deteriorated lamp filaments (3) in a lamp circuit (11) fed by constant current, in particular for a lamp supervision system for airfield lights. A change in a constant current fed through a lamp circuit (11) is initiated, whereby the lamp filament resistance is determined once in conjunction with the change in current and once a time period later. A difference between the resistance determinations constitutes the deterioration of a lamp filament (3) in comparison with a threshold value. Hence, no record of previous resistance determinations have to be stored, and lamps (4) can be replaced when the difference matches the threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Assignee: Safegate International AB
    Inventor: Åke Pettersson
  • Patent number: 6515435
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: Light and Sound Design, Ltd.
    Inventors: Michael Hughes, William Hewlett, Ian Clarke
  • Patent number: 6504485
    Abstract: Monitoring and control apparatus for fail-safe monitoring for normal operation of traffic signal lights provided at an intersection or the like where a plurality of roads intersect. The illumination conditions of respective signal lights are detected using as sensor device, and when the number of illuminated or non-illuminated signal lights is a predetermined number, a normal judgment output of logic value 1 corresponding to a high energy condition is generated while, when the number of illuminated or non-illuminated signal lights is not the predetermined number, an abnormal judgment output of logic value 0 corresponding to a low energy condition is generated. As a result, when a fault in the monitoring apparatus stops the output, the resultant output condition is the same as for a danger condition due to a signal light abnormality, resulting in an extremely safe signal light monitoring and control with excellent fail-safe characteristics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: The Nippon Signal Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshitaka Jinno, Yoshiharu Ozaki, Norihiro Okada, Heisaku Mazawa, Hidetoshi Fujimoto, Junya Toda, Koichi Futsuhara, Norihiro Asada
  • Patent number: 6456091
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method using a power line conditioner having a conventional grounded plug disposed at one end of a short three-wire cord and a housing disposed at the opposite end for providing surge protection, voltage and current amplitude monitoring and indication, as well as visual indication of other singular conditions such as “power on,” “adequate ground,” etc., and outlets for receiving the connecting cord plugs of the electronic equipment to be protected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Assignee: Monster Cable Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Kendrew Lee, Noel Lee
  • Patent number: 6392553
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for interfacing railway controllers with light units, such as LED light unit arrays, to shunt and/or disable test signals not traditionally intended to test non-incandescent light unit arrays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Assignee: Harmon Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Samuel R. Mollet, David J. Wade
  • Publication number: 20020008629
    Abstract: The invention relates to monitoring apparatus and control apparatus for fail-safe monitoring for normal operation of traffic signal lights provided at an intersection or the like where a plurality of roads intersect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2001
    Publication date: January 24, 2002
    Applicant: The Nippon Signal Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshitaka Jinno, Yoshiharu Ozaki, Norihiro Okada, Heisaku Mazawa, Hidetoshi Fujimoto, Junya Toda, Koichi Futsuhara, Norihiro Asada