Light Patents (Class 361/173)
  • Patent number: 11791621
    Abstract: A method includes detecting a failure in a contactor economizer that is configured to provide a first current to a coil of a contactor to close the contactor, and to provide a second current lower than the first current to the coil after the contactor is closed to hold the contactor closed. The method includes at least one of: driving contactor actuation based on economizer failure status; and/or signaling failure of the economizer through built in test (BIT) indication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2023
    Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation
    Inventors: Jordan K. Vanevenhoven, Thomas P. Joyce, Natalie Filipski
  • Patent number: 11713594
    Abstract: An electronic lock with a lock assembly that includes a bolt movable between an extended position and a retracted position. The electronic lock includes a motor configured to drive the bolt between the extended position and the retracted position. A controller is provided that is configured to control actuation of the motor to selectively move the bolt between the extended position and the retracted position. The electronic lock includes a user interface configured to output information about the electronic lock. A misalignment scoring means is provided for detecting interference to movement of the bolt between the extended position and the retracted position and determining a lock misalignment score based on the detected interference. The user interface identifies the lock misalignment score.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2023
    Assignee: Spectrum Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Nedal Almomani, Matthew Lovett, Timothy Brewer
  • Patent number: 11615932
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a pluggable connecting device for a contactor and a contactor, the contactor including a housing, a coil framework located inside the housing, the coil framework provided with a first and a second connecting sheet, and an electromagnetic coil wound on the coil framework, two ends of the electromagnetic coil electrically connected to the first and second connecting sheets. The pluggable connecting device includes an insulated connecting member, and a first and second conductive elements which are fixedly connected with the insulated connecting member. The first conductive element is provided with an insertion end and a wiring end which are arranged oppositely, the second conductive element is provided with an insertion end and a wiring end which are arranged oppositely, and the insertion ends of the first and second conductive elements are configured for connection with the first and second connecting sheets respectively in a pluggable manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2023
    Assignee: Eaton Electrical Ltd.
    Inventors: Luming Zhang, Guoyong Ping, Zhenzhen Yin, Zhengning Hu
  • Patent number: 10890326
    Abstract: A method for detecting a flame is provided. The method includes the step of providing alternating current to a flame rectification probe to produce a first voltage as an input for a sense circuit, wherein the flame rectification probe is placed in proximity to the flame. The method further includes the step of conditioning the first voltage using the sense circuit to produce a second voltage. Additionally, the method includes the steps of outputting the second voltage to a microcontroller, and determining with the microcontroller whether the flame is present based on a magnitude of the second voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2021
    Assignee: Robertshaw Controls Company
    Inventors: Daniel Zuzuly, Michael Pietraszak
  • Patent number: 10598338
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a vehicle headlight is provided. The method comprises: providing, between two housing parts of the vehicle headlight, a heat conducting member and one or more circuit boards, wherein one or more radiation generators are attached in or on the one or more circuit boards; forming a housing of the vehicle headlight by snapping the two housing parts together, wherein the heating conducting member and the one or more circuit boards are attached and fastened inside the housing, wherein the housing comprises an recess on a side surface of the housing, and wherein a fan is in the recess on the side surface of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2020
    Assignee: Guangzhou Tai Da Electric Appliance Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Qian Jiang
  • Patent number: 10394575
    Abstract: An automatic hold switch is disclosed. The automatic hold switch provides a means for automatically switching a hold feature on and off. When the hold feature is on, one or more input devices of a portable electronic device are disabled or prevented from providing input signals. When the hold feature is off, one or more input devices of a portable electronic device are enabled or allowed to provide input signals. Because the user no longer has to manually control the hold feature, the number of actions that need to be taken by the user is reduced. In one example, the automatic hold switch is embodied with light sensors that detect when the device is in a dark environment and when the device is in a light environment. A dark environment indicates to the portable electronic device that the user wishes not to input and therefore the hold feature is turned on. A lighted environment indicates to the portable electronic device that the user wishes to input and therefore the hold feature is turned off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventor: Fletcher R. Rothkopf
  • Patent number: 10303489
    Abstract: An automatic hold switch is disclosed. The automatic hold switch provides a means for automatically switching a hold feature on and off. When the hold feature is on, one or more input devices of a portable electronic device are disabled or prevented from providing input signals. When the hold feature is off, one or more input devices of a portable electronic device are enabled or allowed to provide input signals. Because the user no longer has to manually control the hold feature, the number of actions that need to be taken by the user is reduced. In one example, the automatic hold switch is embodied with light sensors that detect when the device is in a dark environment and when the device is in a light environment. A dark environment indicates to the portable electronic device that the user wishes not to input and therefore the hold feature is turned on. A lighted environment indicates to the portable electronic device that the user wishes to input and therefore the hold feature is turned off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2019
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventor: Fletcher R. Rothkopf
  • Patent number: 9973621
    Abstract: Embodiments help to provide a cross-device security schema for an audio device and a master device to which it is tethered (e.g., a smartphone). An example security scheme provides flexible mechanisms for locking and unlocking the audio device and the device to which it is tethered. For instance, an example security scheme may include: (a) an unlock sync feature that unlocks the audio device and keeps the audio device unlocked whenever the master device is unlocked, (b) a separate audio device unlock process that unlocks the audio device only (without unlocking the master device, and (c) an on-head detection process that, in at least some scenarios, locks the audio device in response to a determination that the audio device is not being worn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2018
    Assignee: Google LLC
    Inventors: Shijing Xian, Huisheng Wang, Yang Lu
  • Patent number: 9645836
    Abstract: An automatic hold switch is disclosed. The automatic hold switch provides a means for automatically switching a hold feature on and off. When the hold feature is on, one or more input devices of a portable electronic device are disabled or prevented from providing input signals. When the hold feature is off, one or more input devices of a portable electronic device are enabled or allowed to provide input signals. Because the user no longer has to manually control the hold feature, the number of actions that need to be taken by the user is reduced. In one example, the automatic hold switch is embodied with light sensors that detect when the device is in a dark environment and when the device is in a light environment. A dark environment indicates to the portable electronic device that the user wishes not to input and therefore the hold feature is turned on. A lighted environment indicates to the portable electronic device that the user wishes to input and therefore the hold feature is turned off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2017
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventor: Fletcher R. Rothkopf
  • Patent number: 8670222
    Abstract: An electronic device for predicting or anticipating a user's operational desires. The electronic device is ready to perform the anticipated function without input from the user by using sensors to sense environmental attributes. The sensors can include an ambient light sensor, a force sensor, a temperature sensor, an ambient noise sensor, and a motion sensor. The electronic device also includes a control mechanism for switching between modes for the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventor: Fletcher R. Rothkopf
  • Patent number: 8385039
    Abstract: An electronic device for predicting or anticipating a user's operational desires. The electronic device is ready to perform the anticipated function without input from the user by using sensors to sense environmental attributes. The sensors can include an ambient light sensor, a force sensor, a temperature sensor, an ambient noise sensor, and a motion sensor. The electronic device also includes a control mechanism for switching between modes for the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventor: Fletcher R. Rothkopf
  • Patent number: 8184423
    Abstract: An automatic hold switch is disclosed. The automatic hold switch provides a means for automatically switching a hold feature on and off. When the hold feature is on, one or more input devices of a portable electronic device are disabled or prevented from providing input signals. When the hold feature is off, one or more input devices of a portable electronic device are enabled or allowed to provide input signals. Because the user no longer has to manually control the hold feature, the number of actions that need to be taken by the user is reduced. In one example, the automatic hold switch is embodied with light sensors that detect when the device is in a dark environment and when the device is in a light environment. A dark environment indicates to the portable electronic device that the user wishes not to input and therefore the hold feature is turned on. A lighted environment indicates to the portable electronic device that the user wishes to input and therefore the hold feature is turned off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventor: Fletcher R. Rothkopf
  • Patent number: 7932643
    Abstract: A lighting control system comprises a plurality of toggle switches, a plurality of pushbuttons, a plurality of timer circuits, a plurality of relays, and a plurality of photocells to control a first plurality of lights, a second plurality of lights, a third plurality of lights and a fourth plurality of lights. The toggle switches and pushbuttons either control the lights directly or activate the timers to control the lights. The relays may be energized to switch on the lights. The photocells may be used to control the lights that are located in an outside setting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Inventor: John A. Tann
  • Patent number: 7894177
    Abstract: An automatic hold switch is disclosed. The automatic hold switch provides a means for automatically switching a hold feature on and off. When the hold feature is on, one or more input devices of a portable electronic device are disabled or prevented from providing input signals. When the hold feature is off, one or more input devices of a portable electronic device are enabled or allowed to provide input signals. Because the user no longer has to manually control the hold feature, the number of actions that need to be taken by the user is reduced. In one example, the automatic hold switch is embodied with light sensors that detect when the device is in a dark environment and when the device is in a light environment. A dark environment indicates to the portable electronic device that the user wishes not to input and therefore the hold feature is turned on. A lighted environment indicates to the portable electronic device that the user wishes to input and therefore the hold feature is turned off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventor: Fletcher R. Rothkopf
  • Patent number: 7859815
    Abstract: An apparatus in an electronic control system allows two or three wire operation. A power supply can supply power to the enclosed circuitry in both two and three wire installations. Two separate zero cross detectors are used such that timing information can be collected in both two and three wire installations. Both zero cross detectors are monitored and are used to automatically configure the electronic control. Over voltage circuitry senses an over voltage condition across a MOSFET which is in the off state and turns the MOSFET on so that it desirably will not reach the avalanche region. Over current circuitry senses when the current through the MOSFETs has exceeded a predetermined current threshold and then turns the MOSFETs off so they do not exceed the MOSFETs' safe operating area (SOA) curve. Latching circuitry is employed to keep the protection circuitry in effect even after a fault condition has cleared.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Richard L Black, Benjamin Aaron Johnson, Shawn L. Leichliter, Robert C. Newman, Jr., Chenming Wu
  • Patent number: 7817400
    Abstract: In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a power supply to generate a supply current; at least one optoisolator coupled to the power supply and responsive to the supply current to generate a charging current; a capacitor, coupled to the at least one optoisolator, to build up a charge in response to the charging current; and an actuating switch, coupled to the capacitor, to release the charge from the capacitor to generate a relay actuating current.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventor: Timothy J. Maloney
  • Patent number: 7813111
    Abstract: An enclosure is arranged for housing electronics associated with a luminaire and includes a first member including a mounting interface arranged to couple the first member to the luminaire and a second member mechanically coupled to the first member. The mounting interface facilitates provisionally coupling the first member to the luminaire and securing the enclosure to the luminaire. A corresponding mounting apparatus for securing an enclosure to a luminaire includes a mounting member having an opening and configured to be secured to a surface of a luminaire and a neck portion extending from the enclosure and configured to pass through the opening. The neck portion includes a neck opening that is configured to allow wiring to be routed from the electronics to the luminaire. The neck portion and the mounting member may include respective complementary surfaces to provide a mounting interface for provisionally coupling the enclosure to the luminaire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Streetlight Intelligence, Inc.
    Inventors: James A. Anderson, Damon H. Langlois, Gregory P. Jacklin, Ian Braithwaite
  • Patent number: 7738235
    Abstract: In one aspect, a compact, lightweight, high-intensity and long-life LED lighting apparatus is provided. The LED lighting apparatus includes: a lens array including a plurality of lenses; a first circuit board including at least one LED (e.g., a plurality of surface-mount type LEDs); and a second circuit board electrically connected with the first circuit board to control illumination of the plurality of LEDs, wherein the second circuit board is configured substantially perpendicular to the first circuit board. In another aspect, a heat dissipation assembly is provided for a lighting apparatus that includes a first circuit board with at least one LED, and a second circuit board configured substantially perpendicular to the first circuit board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: B/E Aerospace, Inc.
    Inventors: Jennifer L. Gloisten, Frederick Reisfeld, Glenn T. Schmidt, Samuel Zeng
  • Patent number: 7719817
    Abstract: An apparatus in an electronic control system allows two or three wire operation. A power supply can supply power to the enclosed circuitry in both two and three wire installations. Two separate zero cross detectors are used such that timing information can be collected in both two and three wire installations. Both zero cross detectors are monitored and are used to automatically configure the electronic control. Over voltage circuitry senses an over voltage condition across a MOSFET which is in the off state and turns the MOSFET on so that it desirably will not reach the avalanche region. Over current circuitry senses when the current through the MOSFETs has exceeded a predetermined current threshold and then turns the MOSFETs off so they do not exceed the MOSFETs' safe operating area (SOA) curve. Latching circuitry is employed to keep the protection circuitry in effect even after a fault condition has cleared.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Robert C. Newman, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7480128
    Abstract: An apparatus in an electronic control system allows two or three wire operation. A power supply can supply power to the enclosed circuitry in both two and three wire installations. The system may have a high efficiency switching type power supply in parallel with a low frequency controllably conductive device. A control circuit may control the controllably conductive device. The control circuit may switch from the two wire mode of operation to the three wire mode of operation upon the detection of a zero cross detection signal. A detector circuit may be used to detect the presence of an output signal from a zero cross detector. Two separate zero cross detectors may be used such that timing information can be collected in both two and three wire installations. Both zero cross detectors may be monitored and used to automatically configure the electronic control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Assignee: Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Richard L. Black
  • Patent number: 7446541
    Abstract: A solenoid test device includes a clock circuit, a control circuit, and an output port configured for coupling to two ends of a solenoid. The clock circuit generates a clock signal and sends it to the control circuit. The control circuit periodically and alternately couples one of the two ends of the solenoid to ground via the output port under the control of the clock signal. The solenoid test device is used to generate a periodic control signal to test service life and stability of solenoids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ren-Jun Xiao, Xiao-Lin Gan, Yu-Kuang Ho
  • Patent number: 7102869
    Abstract: An optical semiconductor relay comprises a light emitting element converting an electrical signal into an optical signal, a first photodiode array receiving the optical signal from the light emitting element. The first photodiode array converts the optical signal into an electrical signal. The relay is further provided with a first diode having one electrode connected to one end of the first photodiode array and a MOSFET. The MOSFET has a gate terminal connected to other electrode of the first diode, and a source terminal connected to other end of the first photodiode array. A second photodiode array is arranged to receive the optical signal from the light emitting element. The second photodiode array converts the optical signal into an electrical signal and has both ends connected to the respective electrodes of the first diode. A control circuit connected between the gate and source terminals of the MOSFET.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Toshimitsu Kato, Masaru Yumura, Yoshiaki Aizawa
  • Patent number: 7012342
    Abstract: A low voltage control circuit is provided for individually controlling high voltage power provided over bus lines to a multitude of interconnected loads. An example of a load is a drive for capillary channels in a microfluidic system. Control is distributed from a central high voltage circuit, rather than using a number of large expensive central high voltage circuits to enable reducing circuit size and cost. Voltage is distributed to each individual load and controlled using a number of high voltage controller channel switches connected to high voltage bus lines. The channel switches each include complementary pull up and pull down photo isolator relays with photo isolator switching controlled from the central high voltage circuit to provide a desired bus line voltage. Switching of the photo isolator relays is further controlled in each channel switch using feedback from a resistor divider circuit to maintain the bus voltage swing within desired limits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Assignee: Sandia National Laboratories
    Inventors: James Frederick Stamps, Robert Ward Crocker, Daniel Dadwa Yee, David Wright Dils
  • Patent number: 6841815
    Abstract: The optoelectronic device includes a photo diode and an amplifier, which amplifies output of the photo diode. The amplifier includes an input stage and an output stage. In one embodiment, the input stage has a series connection to a resistor, which is connected to a ground. The output stage has a connection to ground that does not overlap the series connection. In another embodiment, the input stage has a first connection to a bypass capacitor, which is connected to a power source. The output stage has a separate, second connection to the capacitor, which prevents high frequencies from flowing between the input stage and said output stage via a connection to the power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: Finisar Corporation
    Inventors: The' Linh Nguyen, Daniel K. Case, Philip D. Shapiro
  • Publication number: 20040184214
    Abstract: Methods and systems for controlling motion of and tracking a mechanically unattached magnetic probe are disclosed. One system for controlling motion of mechanically unattached magnetic probe may include a magnetic coil and pole assembly. The magnetic coil and pole assembly includes at least one pole carrier. The pole carrier includes a light transmissive substrate and a plurality of magnetic poles being patterned on the substrate for applying force to a mechanically unattached magnetic probe. A magnetic drive core provides a return path for magnetic flux flowing between the poles. A plurality of magnetic coils are wound around the magnetic drive core for conducting current and applying magnetic force to the probe through the pole pieces. A computer maintains the position of the probe within a volume defined by an optical tracking system by moving the probe and the system under test.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2004
    Publication date: September 23, 2004
    Applicant: The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
    Inventors: Leandra Vicci, Richard Superfine
  • Publication number: 20040125533
    Abstract: An electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection device is composed of Zener diode. The ESD protection device has a Zener diode positioned in a substrate of a semiconductor wafer, a dielectric layer positioned on the substrate, a pad metal positioned on a surface of the dielectric layer above the Zener diode, at least a first contact plug positioned in the dielectric layer and electrically connecting the pad metal and the Zener diode, a passivation layer covering a surface of the semiconductor wafer and exposing a portion of a surface of the pad metal, at least a doped region positioned in the substrate and beyond the Zener diode, at least a power line positioned on the dielectric layer of the semiconductor wafer, and at least a second contact plug electrically connecting the doped region and the power line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 25, 2002
    Publication date: July 1, 2004
    Inventors: Tien-Hao Tang, Shiao-Shien Chen
  • Patent number: 6639782
    Abstract: First of all, a processing apparatus that is utilized in the semiconductor industry, a protecting circuit and an automatic running apparatus having the standardized mechanical interface (SMIF) are provided. The protecting circuit includes: a voltage-induction device, a logical device and two electric-lighting devices. The protecting circuit receives the signals from the processing apparatus by the voltage-induction device, and the protecting circuit utilizes the logical device to perform a logical calculation in accordance with the signals from the processing apparatus. Furthermore, the states of operating the processing apparatus are shown in two electric-lighting devices, and the logical signals are transported from the protecting circuit into the standardized mechanical interface (SMIF) to control the operation of the robotic arm in the automatic running apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Assignee: Macronix International Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Wen-Yung Lin
  • Publication number: 20030081368
    Abstract: First of all, a processing apparatus that is utilized in the semiconductor industry, a protecting circuit and an automatic running apparatus having the standardized mechanical interface (SMIF) are provided. The protecting circuit comprises: a voltage-induction device, a logical device and two electric-lighting devices. The protecting circuit receives the signals from the processing apparatus by the voltage-induction device, and the protecting circuit utilizes the logical device to perform a logical calculation in accordance with the signals from the processing apparatus. Furthermore, the states of operating the processing apparatus are shown in two electric-lighting devices, and the logical signals are transported from the protecting circuit into the standardized mechanical interface (SMIF) to control the operation of the robotic arm in the automatic running apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2001
    Publication date: May 1, 2003
    Applicant: MACRONIX INTERNATIONAL CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Wen-Yung Lin
  • Publication number: 20030021075
    Abstract: An optical control electromagnetic wave circuit comprises a unit composed of a semiconductor layer, a transparent substrate, and a transparent grounded conductive layer and a displaying unit. The semiconductor layer is formed on the transparent substrate, and the photoconductive layer is formed on the opposite surface of the transparent substrate. The displaying unit faces the transparent grounded layer. The shape of the radio wave circuit which is displayed on the displaying unit is mapped on the semiconductor layer to form the radio wave circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2001
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Inventor: Noriaki Obara
  • Patent number: 6369688
    Abstract: The automatic gang switch having a heat ray sensor is fixedly mounted on a mounting frame having a generally rectangular opening. The length of a housing of the switch is approximately two thirds of that of the generally rectangular opening of the mounting frame, while the width of the housing is approximately equal to that of the generally rectangular opening of the mounting frame. The switch includes a human body detecting section for detecting heat rays emitted from a human body and a circuit section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Works, Ltd.
    Inventors: Tatsuya Abe, Masaharu Fukushima, Shiro Mori, Takahiro Yamanouchi, Hirotoshi Watanabe, Makoto Morimoto, Hideki Kawahara
  • Patent number: 6136457
    Abstract: A manganese oxide material that can be used as a switching device or as a memory device or the like is formed of Mn-based oxide material. The Mn-based oxide material exhibits insulator-to-metal transitions induced by irradiating the material with laser light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignees: Agency of Industrial Science and Technology Ministry of International Trade and Industry, Angstrom Technology Partnership
    Inventors: Kenjiro Miyano, Takehito Tanaka, Yoshinori Tokura, Yasuhide Tomioka
  • Patent number: 6046899
    Abstract: A protective relay of the type consisting of a relay contacts controlled by means of a relay coil further includes a pair of triacs controlled by an optical switch. The high speed response is attributed to the configuration of the triacs while high ampere rating is provided by the contacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: John J. Dougherty
  • Patent number: 6034602
    Abstract: A computer monitor system including an infrared motion detecting switch that deactivates the monitor after a predetermined delay during which no movement is detected in the vicinity of the monitor. The system is designed to prevent damage to the screens through excessive use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Inventor: Stephan Brice Quibodeaux
  • Patent number: 5796347
    Abstract: An arrangement is provided to power and initiate the output of information sensed and/or stored by a device in a sealed environment having a viewing window. The device is powered and the output is initiated by the input of a light source to the device. When the output is initiated, the device provides a display representing the information. In a specific arrangement, the device scrolls to display the information on a sequential, repetitive basis while the light source is directed onto the device. In one specific embodiment, the device is powered by a solar cell or the like. In one specific application of the invention, the information represents the real-time primary voltage of components and circuitry within the switchgear. In another specific application of the invention, the device is located within a sealed switchgear enclosure and the information represents the faulted phase or phases of the power distribution circuit to which the switchgear is connected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Assignee: S&C Electric Company
    Inventor: John A. Zulaski
  • Patent number: 5786644
    Abstract: A two wire detection device includes a relay switch setable to a high and a low impedance state and electrically coupled between a first terminal of an AC source and a first leg of a load, a second leg of which is connected to a second terminal of the AC source. The device includes an energy storage device electrically coupled to the first terminal of the AC source and electrically connected to the first leg of the load. Charge control means interposed between the first terminal of the AC source and the energy storage device regulate the voltage across the energy storage device. A detection control device is electrically connected across the energy storage device and to the switching device for detecting the presence of a condition for monitoring and setting the state of the switching device based thereon such that power is available to the detection control device regardless of the state of the switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Assignee: Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Albert Zaretsky
  • Patent number: 5633778
    Abstract: An infrared signal interface enables an infrared detector module to communicate with the door edge signal input of a garage door operator. The infrared signal interface has a power supply for driving the pulsed infrared detector. Pulsed signals are received by a missing pulse detector that controls a relay. The relay may be coupled to the door edge signal of the garage door operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 27, 1997
    Assignee: The Chamberlain Group, Inc.
    Inventors: James S. Chang, Russell L. Powers
  • Patent number: 5623172
    Abstract: A two wire detection device includes a relay switch setable to a high and a low impedance state and electrically coupled between a first terminal of an AC source and a first leg of a load, a second leg of which is connected to a second terminal of the AC source. The device includes an energy storage device electrically coupled to the first terminal of the AC source and electrically connected to the first leg of the load. Charge control means interposed between the first terminal of the AC source and the energy storage device regulate the voltage across the energy storage device. A detection control device is electrically connected across the energy storage device and to the switching device for detecting the presence of a condition for monitoring and setting the state of the switching device based thereon such that power is available to the detection control device regardless of the state of the switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 22, 1997
    Assignee: Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Albert Zaretsky
  • Patent number: 5596477
    Abstract: A contactless signaling device for operating a horn or bell is disclosed. The signaling device has an electro-magnetic coil which drives an armature. A light source is positioned opposite a light sensor and a shutter portion of the armature moves between the source and the sensor periodically blocking the light flow. The light sensor is in electrical communication with the electro-magnetic coil. A spring connected to the armature moves the shutter portion when current is not supplied to the coil thereby supplying the desired pulsing as the armature striker engages a horn diaphragm or bell gong.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1997
    Assignee: Faraday, Inc.
    Inventor: Norman B. Horton
  • Patent number: 5557504
    Abstract: A molded integrated circuit package system of the type suitable for surface mounting is disclosed. The system includes a chip package having leads along its sides that are of the surface-mountable type, and having a plurality of connectors at its ends. A module is provided which contains components that are sensitive to solder temperatures or the chemicals used in the soldering process; examples of such components include batteries and quartz crystal resonators. The module has connectors extending therefrom that mate with the connectors on the chip package, such that the module may be removably connected to the chip package after the surface mounting of the chip package to a circuit board. Mechanical connection may be provided by snap members extending from the module which engage surfaces of the chip package when mounted thereto. Lockout tabs are provided on the chip package and the module to prevent improper mounting and electrical connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 17, 1996
    Assignee: SGS-Thomson Microelectronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Harry M. Siegel, Michael J. Hundt, Krishnan Kelappan
  • Patent number: 5473202
    Abstract: A control unit for switching AC powered high efficiency lighting in response to a signal from an occupancy sensor. The lighting is switched by a hybrid mechanical relay/semiconductor switch. The semiconductor switch is connected in parallel with the relay switch contacts to protect them and is controlled by a noise-insensitive zero voltage crossing detector circuit which switches the semiconductor switch only at the zero crossings of the AC power. The semiconductor switch is preferably turned on by a pulse forming circuit only for a brief period of time spanning the time when the relay is switching.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 5, 1995
    Assignee: Brian Platner
    Inventors: Philip H. Mudge, Brian Platner
  • Patent number: 5457595
    Abstract: A high-power relay with a low-power operating circuit is usable in combination with a low-current source of DC power. The source has a hot terminal and a common terminal and a bistable relay has an energizing relay winding with one terminal of the winding connected to the common terminal of the supply. First and second semiconductor switches are connected to a second terminal, the switches being alternately operable in response to control signals to respectively set and reset the relay. First and second capacitors are connected to the first and second semiconductor switches, respectively, and first and second charging circuits are connected to the low-current source and to the first and second capacitors, respectively, to charge the capacitors from the source. The switches are connected to selectively discharge the capacitors in opposite directions through the energizing relay winding thereby to SET and RESET the relay in response to control signals. A method of operating the circuit is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 10, 1995
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventor: John R. Baldwin
  • Patent number: 5266807
    Abstract: The present invention teaches an improved passive infrared detection system for use in controlling electrical wiring devices and systems in residential, commercial and industrial environments. Interior or exterior lighting, by way of example only, and the power or current feeding same, is controlled such that the presence of a body entering a predetermined zone, such as a room, will be detected in an improved manner and will trigger a series of events resulting in the switching of the lights on or off, as desired. The detecting portion of the combination comprising the present invention is capable of receiving presence signals 360 degrees about a reference line, thereby greatly increasing the ability of the system of this invention to detect body presence within any interior area, for example. This qualifies the present system to function as an improved security system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1986
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1993
    Assignee: Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin B. Neiger
  • Patent number: 5162968
    Abstract: The present invention teaches a control system wherein fiber optics controls the functioning of one or more types of wiring devices, such as a wall receptacle. With the use of the present invention, a relatively safer system is provided for use in wet, hospital, explosive and other environments, and which is capable of surface mounting. Switch and load supply assemblies are interconnected by fiber optic means for transmitting reflected signals from a movable mirror to a photocell-influenced relay circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1992
    Assignee: Leviton Manufacturing Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin B. Neiger
  • Patent number: 5119065
    Abstract: A vehicle anti-theft device includes a lock body carried on the vehicle and having a key receiving a slot. A pair of bore holes are spaced apart from each other in a predetermined pattern and extend through the lock body, which is transparent to a particular frequency of electromagnetic radiation. The key includes a first radiation reflective area aligned with one of the bore holes and a second non-reflective area aligned with the other bore hole. A systems controller includes a pair of radiation emitters and associated radiation detectors. A pair of fiber optic cables connect the radiation emitters and the radiation detectors to the bore holes. The systems controller generates control signals in response to radiation reflected from the key through the optic cables. If a proper pattern of radiation is reflected through the optic cables, the vehicle will be operated in a normal manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1992
    Inventor: Fred A. Wiehagen
  • Patent number: 5077484
    Abstract: A light level controlled electrical extension socket comprising a main body on which is formed two pairs of insertion sockets for receiving an appliance's power plug, a photosensitive element externally mounted in a housing on the main body, an extension cord attached to a power outlet, and a pair of indicator lights for each respective pair of insertion sockets. Each insertion socket comprises three receiving slots, whereby, a power plug inserted to the right side always receives power as in a convention adapter. A power plug inserted to the left side has its power turned on or off automatically according to prevailing light levels. A first pair of insertion sockets has its power on in automatic mode, i.e. the left side when the second pair has its power turned off, and vice versa. The indicator lights for each corresponding pair of insertion sockets reflect the status of each respective pair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1991
    Inventors: Shiang Shiun Tsai, Ming Jeng Tsai
  • Patent number: 5047662
    Abstract: A driver circuit for driving from the same output node (6) an inductive relay (34) and a non-inductive lamp (30) having a transistor (16) for driving the relay and second transistor (18) for driving the lamp and a third transistor (90) having its current electrodes coupled between the control electrodes of the first and second transistors for sensing an inductively-induced voltage at the output node when the first transistor means is disabled to cease driving the relay and for enabling the first transistor in response thereto to dissipate the inductively-induced voltage at the output node so as to protect the second transistor. Alternative couplings of the third transistor to the second transistor are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 10, 1991
    Assignee: Motorola, Inc.
    Inventor: Arthur J. Edwards
  • Patent number: 5025895
    Abstract: There is provided a detection system for detecting attempted entry onto the shaft-side roof of an elevator cab which includes a power supply for supplying power to the system, a proximity detector in electrical connection with the power supply which is disposed proximate the roof of the cab for detecting an object entering a zone of detection including the top of the cab, the detector in a preferred embodiment including an optical source for generating a detection beam and a corresponding optical receiver for receiving the detection beam when it is diffused by an object entering the detection zone and for providing a detection signal when the object enters the detection zone, and detection indicator responsive to the detection signal for indicating an attempted entry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 25, 1991
    Assignee: G.E.C. Holding Corp.
    Inventors: Richard J. Leone, Robert F. Cummins, Joseph Vitiello, Thomas Brochhagan
  • Patent number: 4991054
    Abstract: An optical lighting control, such as that used to control street lamps, delays the response of the lamps to changes of illumination while the lamps are on at night but avoids the delay in response to daylight. Thus, headlamps, flashlights, and lightning flashes of brief duration do not cause the control to turn off the street lamps. However, the street lights turn off without this delay in response to daylight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 5, 1991
    Assignee: Pacific Scientific Company
    Inventor: Jeff Walters
  • Patent number: 4979069
    Abstract: A motor protection apparatus with a current monitor, the current monitor sensing the presence of current in at least one phase of an electric motor. An ammeter is responsive to the monitor, the ammeter indicating the level of current present in the motor phase. A variable resistor is interposed the monitor and the ammeter, allowing the ammeter to selectively indicate start current and run current present within the motor phase. An optical isolator is responsive to the ammeter for indicating readings of the ammeter at predetermined values. A relay is responsive to the optical isolator, for controlling the presence or absence of input voltage to the motor. The motor protection device senses fault conditions in both the start mode and run mode of the motor, and initiates appropriate responses thereto. The motor is thereby protected from permanent damage by the early detection of fault conditions. The device operates on electric motors having one or more phases, including three phase motors, as well as D.C.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1987
    Date of Patent: December 18, 1990
    Assignee: Elmer Simpson & Edgar Powell
    Inventor: Elmer Simpson
  • Patent number: 4897755
    Abstract: Where there is a relay controlling an AC power circuit to a load, the apparatus of this disclosure includes a sensor for observing arc at the relay contacts and a control circuit which controls the time of subsequent actuation or deactuation of the relay with respect to the alternating current power circuit so as to eliminate relay contact arcing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 30, 1990
    Assignee: Louis S. Polster
    Inventors: Louis S. Polster, Ronald R. Flinders