Generator Power Source Patents (Class 362/192)
  • Patent number: 6749321
    Abstract: An automatic power-generating device for decorative lamps has a weight-distributing plate or a heavy weight inside. Rotation of an exterior object produces an eccentric force (a centrifugal force) to rotate the weight-distributing plate or the heavy weight together with a coil and a magnet. The coil and the magnet rotate at different speeds due to the law of inertia to force magnetic field produced vicissitudes and to generate an inductive current (based on a principle of electromagnetic induction) to supply decorative lamps with power for lighting. Thus, the automatic power-generating device is able to save electricity and is convenient to be installed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Inventor: Yih-Wenn Luo
  • Patent number: 6729744
    Abstract: A light generating device utilizes a large centrally located magnet which is mounted to slide past a magnet pickup or current induction wire which may be preferably mounted at a center point of travel in a tubular housing having a tubular chamber through which the magnet travels. A pair of elastomeric bumpers are located each at the end of the tubular chamber which may be inside or outside the flashlight. The result is a device which both facilitates the manual movement of the flashlight body so that the magnet slides past the center magnet pickup or current induction wire, and also conserves the residual momentum of the magnet once it has traveled past the magnet pickup or current induction wire by providing a bumper and spring to conserve some of the mechanical energy going in the other direction. Ninety second of manual activation enables about five minutes of illumination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Inventor: Pat Y. Mah
  • Publication number: 20040062039
    Abstract: Disclosed is a portable signal light. The portable signal light comprises a signal light section and a self-generator. The signal light section has a hollow signal light body to an inner surface of which a light emitting sheet is attached, a vertically positioned panel which is located inside the hollow signal light body, a plurality of LED elements which are fastened to the vertically positioned panel to be spaced apart one from another by a predetermined distance, and an illuminating lamp which is integrally secured to the hollow signal light body. The self-generator functions to generate power to be fed as operating power to the LED elements of the signal light section, the illuminating lamp and an external load.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2003
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventor: Chang-Sup Ahn
  • Patent number: 6713905
    Abstract: A rotary power tool having a light source includes a housing, an electric motor provided in the housing and an elongated spindle engaged with and adapted to be rotatably driven by the motor. A rotatable holding assembly is attached to an end of the spindle and extends from a front end of the housing for holding a tool accessory. At least one magnet is adapted to be rotated by the spindle for producing a magnetic field, and a generally tubular sleeve is attached to the front end of the housing. At least one light emitting diode projects from a front end of the sleeve, generally between the inner and the outer surfaces of the sleeve. An inductive coil is also imbedded at least partially in the sleeve generally between the inner and the outer surfaces, proximate the magnet for generating an electric current from the magnetic field. Electrical conductors are also embedded and routed through the sleeve for supplying the electric current from the inductive coil to the light emitting diode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Assignee: S-B Power Tool Company
    Inventors: Wolfgang Hirschburger, Allen M. Oles
  • Publication number: 20040042206
    Abstract: An automatic power-generating device for decorative lamps has a weight-distributing plate or a heavy weight inside actuated by rotation of an exterior object to produce an eccentric force (a centrifugal force) and rotate together with a coil and a magnet. The coil and the magnet rotate at different speeds due to the law of inertia to force a magnetic field produce vicissitudes and generate an inductive current (based on a principle of electromagnetic induction) to supply decorative lamps with power for lighting, able to save electricity and convenient to be installed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2002
    Publication date: March 4, 2004
    Inventor: Yih-Wenn Luo
  • Publication number: 20040037071
    Abstract: An innovated flashing decorative article, comprising of an upper hollow pipe, a lower hollow pipe and an exterior magnet. On the top rim of the upper hollow pipe are two symmetrically positioned insert pins and a circuit board that is connected via the insert pins to the upper hollow pipe. On the circuit board are an IC and LED. The upper side of the circuit board is coated with transparent glue. Inside the upper hollow pipe is an insulating paper. At a lower part of the upper hollow pipe is an exterior pipe thread. Inside the lower hollow pipe is an interior pipe thread. On the bottom of the lower hollow pipe is a magnet. Inside the hollow of the lower hollow pipe are one to three batteries. The exterior pipe thread and interior pipe thread of the upper and lower hollow pipes are screwed together. The exterior magnet is independently installed outside the upper and lower hollow pipes. Due to variability of the shape of the circuit board, the present invention of flashing decorative article provides more fun.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2003
    Publication date: February 26, 2004
    Inventor: Ching-Hui Lee
  • Patent number: 6685334
    Abstract: A solar powered light assembly having an integral power management system includes a means for collecting solar energy, and a plurality of energy storage devices. The device also includes a control means for selecting to charge one energy storage device and selecting to discharge one energy storage device to a predetermined level before selecting to recharge the selected discharging energy storage device. The device also includes a sensing means for sensing a predetermined charging condition and an energy charge switching means for selectively charging one of the energy storage devices. The device further includes a discharge sensing means and an energy discharge switching means for selectively discharging energy from the selected discharging energy storage device and a load switching means for delivering energy from the selected discharging energy storage device to the load for powering the solar powered device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Assignee: G-5 Electronics
    Inventors: Thomas A. Kenny, Raj Chawla, Robert Gilling, Thomas Marquardt, Ernest Pacsai, Carl Szasz
  • Publication number: 20040008510
    Abstract: A light generating flashlight system device utilizes a large centrally located magnet which is mounted to slide past a magnet pickup or current induction wire which may be preferably mounted at a center point of travel in a tubular housing having a tubular chamber through which the magnet travels. A pair of elastomeric dampers are located each at the end of a support system sleeve which is sized to fit within a main housing to stabilize all internal support within a sealed unit. The result is a device which both facilitates the manual movement of the flashlight body so that the magnet slides past the center magnet pickup or current induction wire, and also conserves the residual momentum of the magnet once it has traveled past the magnet pickup or current induction wire by providing a bumper and spring to conserve some of the mechanical energy going in the other direction. Ninety second of manual activation enables about five minutes of illumination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2003
    Publication date: January 15, 2004
    Inventor: Pat Y. Mah
  • Publication number: 20030185000
    Abstract: A light generating device utilizes a large centrally located magnet which is mounted to slide past a magnet pickup or current induction wire which may be preferably mounted at a center point of travel in a tubular housing having a tubular chamber through which the magnet travels. A pair of elastomeric bumpers are located each at the end of the tubular chamber which may be inside or outside the flashlight. The result is a device which both facilitates the manual movement of the flashlight body so that the magnet slides past the center magnet pickup or current induction wire, and also conserves the residual momentum of the magnet once it has traveled past the magnet pickup or current induction wire by providing a bumper and spring to conserve some of the mechanical energy going in the other direction. Ninety second of manual activation enables about five minutes of illumination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2002
    Publication date: October 2, 2003
    Inventor: Pat Y. Mah
  • Patent number: 6619823
    Abstract: A wheel having an illuminating device includes an illuminating assembly with a ring-shaped magnet located in a center of the illuminating assembly. The ring-shaped magnet has a central hole and two flexible bushes are respectively engaged with the central hole from two sides of the ring-shaped magnet. The ring-shaped magnet is located between two bearings. Two wheel frames clamp the illuminating assembly positioned and a shaft extends through the two flexible bushes. Each of the wheel frames has apertures for receiving the illuminating items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Inventor: Ming-Li Dai
  • Publication number: 20030165063
    Abstract: A light-emitting apparatus for a rim cover is disclosed. The light-emitting apparatus includes a light source and a generator. The light source is attached to the rim cover. The generator is attached to the rim cover. The light source is connected with generator. When the rim cover is rotated, the generator generates electricity in order to power the light source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2002
    Publication date: September 4, 2003
    Inventor: Shun-Ten Liaw
  • Publication number: 20030147238
    Abstract: A hydroelectric generator is provided for driving electrical components. The generator includes a housing configured to be connected to a water supply and includes an inlet port and a discharge port arranged at opposite ends thereof. The housing includes a linear passageway extending along a straight path entirely through the housing that is configured to convey water from the inlet port to the discharge port. The hydroelectric generator also includes a power generator mounted in the passageway and configured to convert energy from water flowing through the passageway into electric power. The generator includes magnets and a coil centered within the passageway with at least one of the coil and magnets being adapted to be rotated relative to the housing in response to flowing water. The hydroelectric generator includes an electric output from the power generator delivering electrical power to an electrical component connected to the power generator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2002
    Publication date: August 7, 2003
    Inventors: David G. Allen, Greg Porter, Ron Bouffard
  • Patent number: 6588913
    Abstract: A flashing light-emitting device includes a rotating member, which is mounted rotatably within a hollow base and which has a plurality of fixed vane elements that can be rotated by air current created when the base moves. A coil unit is wound on a sheave, which is rotatable with the rotating member. Two electrically and magnetically conducting rings are fixed to the sheave, and are formed integrally with a plurality of tongues that are aligned and staggered circumferentially and that extend into the sheave. The coil unit is in electrical connection with the conducting rings and a plurality of light-emitting elements. When the rotating member rotates within the base, the coil unit rotates about a permanent magnet fixed in the base so that electricity is generated on the coil unit. As such, the light-emitting elements can emit a flashing light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Inventor: Kuo-Lin Huang
  • Patent number: 6588918
    Abstract: A portable non-battery operated lamp has a spring wound up by hand for operation. A releasable lever mounted on the lamp handle swings outwardly and can be rotated to wind up the spring. A rocker switch assembly is moved to an ON position to release the bias of the spring thereby moving a gear train operatively connected to a generator for energizing a LED assembly. The switch can be moved to an OFF position to conserve spring bias prior to full relief of the spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Inventor: Mark A. Millar
  • Patent number: 6568493
    Abstract: A power source attachment, and a method of manufacture, that runs only off the auxiliary hydraulics of a skid-steer loader or other prime mover. It can run lights and still have extra power to run one or more electrically operated tools on a construction or other jobsite, such as but not limited to welders, jackhammers, air compressors, saws, drills, grinders, and the like. The preferred embodiment comprises a frame, hydraulic hoses, an hydraulic motor, a generator with 110v and 220v plug-ins, and a hydraulic fluid flow control assembly. Optionally, the present invention can be adapted to hydraulically operate devices such as pumps and compressors simultaneously with the electrically powered tools. Since the present invention uses only the hydraulic power and engine horsepower of the prime mover to operate or be moved between locations, it does not require a diesel motor, ignition system, fuel tank, cooling system, or wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Inventors: Mark Joesph Parkert, Anton James Bauermeister
  • Patent number: 6565242
    Abstract: A wheel with sound and light effects includes a fork for supporting a wheel, a magnetic element, and a plurality of lamps. A plurality of lamps are installed at the spoke of a wheel. Each lamp is installed with a magnetic receiving element made by winding a coil. Each magnetic receiving element is connected to a capacitor and a light emitting element. Two outer sides of the rim each are installed with a magnetic element and are locked to the fork. Thereby, a rotating wheel may light up in the whole cycle as it rotates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Inventor: Jen Hao Dai
  • Patent number: 6550945
    Abstract: A luminous pedal for a bicycle has a body with an I-like frame formed therein. An axle hole is longitudinally defined through the frame. An end cover is assembled at the front end and has a second hole in alignment with the axle hole. An axle has a head extending out from the second hole. A plurality of permanent magnets is circumferentially provided thereon and arranged N-pole by S-pole alternately. A coil seat with a coil is secured in the chamber. The permanent magnets are received in the coil seat. Two luminous plates is respectively secured at the side parts of the body and each have a plurality of luminous elements and electrically connected with the coil by a wire so that when the pedal is operated by a user, current is generated to light the luminous elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Inventor: Chun-Chen Chiu
  • Patent number: 6511201
    Abstract: An air blast tool having an air nozzle and integrated air powered electrical generator with electric lamp is disclosed. Compressed air supplied to the air blast tool is also supplied to the air powered generator within the tool to produce electricity. Light produced by the electric lamp is directed in the same direction as the air blast nozzle to enable the user to readily see machined surfaces and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2003
    Inventor: Dale K Elrod
  • Patent number: 6501199
    Abstract: An automatic wheel-driven generating device mainly includes a base fixedly mounted on a wheel around an axle thereof and provided with a centered hollow column and one or more radially extended hollow pipes for each receiving a light-emitting element therein; a winding reel enclosed between left and right magnetic poles and fixedly mounted on the hollow column; and a magnet holder having a cap screwed into a center thereof and being fixedly mounted on the axle. The magnet holder carries magnets and is associated with the winding reel and the magnetic poles without contact with them. When the wheel rotates, the winding reel and the magnetic poles on the base rotate along with the wheel relative to the magnet holder that is unmovably fixed on the axle, so that an induced current is produced to drive the light-emitting elements to emit light beams.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Inventor: Pao-chuang Hung
  • Publication number: 20020172036
    Abstract: An electrical power generating device particularly adapted for mounting onto a rotary wheel can automatically produce electrical power to get LED lamps secured to the surface of wheels illuminated. The power generating device is an electrical motor having an output shaft and is fixed to the interior of a box. A speed retarding device including a counterweight or a wind operated wheel having a plurality of wind catching blades is attached to the output shaft of the motor so as to keep the shaft relatively still with respect to the motor rotated along with a rotating wheel. So, the motor serves as an electric generator producing electric power to get LED lamps illuminated. The LED lamps can be electrically actuated by way of such a power generating device on a vehicle moving on road.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2001
    Publication date: November 21, 2002
    Inventor: Highly Chien
  • Patent number: 6474832
    Abstract: A rail-car status-indicating assembly is provided for mounting to the axles of railcars. A solenoid and a magnet are part of the assembly installed each to one of a non-rotating structure and a rotating structure which co-rotates with the axle so that each time the solenoid enters the magnets field a current is induced. Preferably, a housing forms the rotating structure for protecting the inductive components. A bearing and pendulum are mounted within the housing to form a non-rotating structure. Magnetically induced co-rotation is eliminated by mounting of the electrical components to an offset pivoted structure. One form of low-power status device is light emitting diodes, electrically connected to the solenoid for repeated emission of light visible to oncoming motorists. Other embodiments include use of low power temperature sensors and the use of LEDs to transmit two or more status condition or via RF transceivers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Inventor: Wayne H. Murray
  • Publication number: 20020149945
    Abstract: A self-illuminating pedal assembly comprises a pedal axle, a pedal rotatably mounted around the pedal axle, a magnet securely mounted to the pedal axle, and a permanent-magnet coil securely mounted to the pedal to rotate therewith. At least one light-emitting diode is mounted to the pedal. The permanent-magnet coil is electrically connected to the light-emitting diode and surrounds the magnet. When pedaling, the permanent-magnet coil is rotated relative to the magnet to thereby generate an alternating magnetic field to cause illumination of the light-emitting diode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2001
    Publication date: October 17, 2002
    Inventors: Shun-Ten Liaw, Wu-Chung Jung
  • Publication number: 20020145869
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for generating an information signal. Exemplary methods and apparatus may comprise (A) electrically associating at least one LED with a Seebeck power generator; (B) thermally associating the Seebeck power generator with a surface; and (C) heating the surface to cause the Seebeck power generator to generate electricity to energize the at least one LED. In one example, such methods and apparatus may be used to provide an indication of the temperature of a surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2002
    Publication date: October 10, 2002
    Inventor: Kevin J. Dowling
  • Publication number: 20020136020
    Abstract: An automatic wheel-driven generating means mainly includes a base fixedly mounted on a wheel around an axle thereof and provided with a centered hollow column and one or more radially extended hollow pipes for each receiving a light-emitting element therein; a winding reel enclosed between left and right magnetic poles and fixedly mounted on the hollow column; and a magnet holder having a cap screwed into a center thereof and being fixedly mounted on the axle. The magnet holder carries magnets and is associated with the winding reel and the magnetic poles without contact with them. When the wheel rotates, the winding reel and the magnetic poles on the base rotate along with the wheel relative to the magnet holder that is unmovably fixed on the axle, so that an induced current is produced to drive the light-emitting elements to emit light beams.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2001
    Publication date: September 26, 2002
    Inventor: Pao-Chuang Hung
  • Publication number: 20020136021
    Abstract: An automatic wheel-driven generating means mainly includes a base fixedly mounted on a wheel around an axle thereof and provided with a centered hollow column and one or more radially extended hollow pipes for each receiving a light-emitting element therein; a winding reel enclosed between left and right magnetic poles and fixedly mounted on the hollow column; and a magnet holder having a cap screwed into a center thereof and being fixedly mounted on the axle. The magnet holder carries magnets and is associated with the winding reel and the magnetic poles without contact with them. When the wheel rotates, the winding reel and the magnetic poles on the base rotate along with the wheel relative to the magnet holder that is unmovably fixed on the axle, so that an induced current is produced to drive the light-emitting elements to emit light beams.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2002
    Publication date: September 26, 2002
    Inventor: Pao-Chuang Hung
  • Patent number: 6454445
    Abstract: A self-illuminating pedal assembly comprises a pedal axle, a pedal rotatably mounted around the pedal axle, a magnet securely mounted to the pedal axle, and a permanent-magnet coil securely mounted to the pedal to rotate therewith. At least one light-emitting diode is mounted to the pedal. The permanent-magnet coil is electrically connected to the light-emitting diode and surrounds the magnet. When pedaling, the permanent-magnet coil is rotated relative to the magnet to thereby generate an alternating magnetic field to cause illumination of the light-emitting diode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Assignee: Cobra King Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shun-Ten Liaw, Wu-Chung Jung
  • Patent number: 6398395
    Abstract: An improved compact generator, a light-emitting wheel adopting the same and a manufacturing method are provided. To make a generator compact and light to smoothly perform electromagnetic induction by crossing the directions of magnetic flux of an armature coil and a permanent magnet, an assembly structure including an armature arm and the armature coil is improved. To prevent damage by impact to the permanent magnet and use a rare-earth based permanent magnet in a ring type having the thickness of 1.2 mm in Lanthanides which has a magnetic force 9-10 times stronger than that of a ferrite based permanent magnet but is weak against impacts, a permanent magnet assembly is provided in which the permanent magnet is arranged on a buffer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Assignee: Teltek Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kwang-ik Hyun
  • Patent number: 6386731
    Abstract: A light emitting unit of one or more kinds selected from light sources such as, neon lamp, cold cathode fluorescent lamp, electro luminescence (EL), and light emitting diode (LED) accommodated in a protecting enclosure together with a rectifier circuit, is mounted on a rotating body of an automobile such as a wheel or a tire. Power for illumination is supplied from an extra miniature generator installed on the rotating body converting its rotating kinetic energy into electrical energy by means of a specially designed vane, an eccentric swing block, and a bearing disc with associated transmission gear wheel to continuously supply electricity to the light emitting unit. Both sides of the automobile are therefore well illuminated in a dark environment so as to achieve traffic security and contribute to beautiful night scenery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Inventor: Chen-Kang Cheng
  • Patent number: 6382820
    Abstract: An illuminating novelty device for a hubcap that includes a primary housing, illuminators, and a generator. The illuminators include a strip of LEDs that extends diametrically across the primary housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Inventor: Hyon Chol Chung
  • Patent number: 6379023
    Abstract: A light assembly is adapted for use with an electrically insulated bucket disposed on the boom of an aerial lift truck having a pressurized hydraulic fluid supply positioned proximate to the bucket. The light assembly includes a power supply which converts energy from a fluid flow from the pressurized hydraulic fluid supply to electrical energy and a lamp that is electrically connected to the power supply and receives electrical energy therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Inventor: Edward Passno
  • Publication number: 20020030994
    Abstract: A combination of an electrically powered portable light and a reuseable portable fuel cell provides a practical light source which may be operated by a plurality of alternative sources of electrical energy such as a battery, a generator, a solar cell, and an A/C current converter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2001
    Publication date: March 14, 2002
    Inventors: Mark Krietzman, Fred Arbenz
  • Publication number: 20020024816
    Abstract: A wheel having an illuminating device includes an illuminating assembly with a ring-shaped magnet located in a center of the illuminating assembly. The ring-shaped magnet has a central hole and two flexible bushes are respectively engaged with the central hole from two sides of the ring-shaped magnet. The ring-shaped magnet is located between two bearings. Two wheel frames clamp the illuminating assembly positioned and a shaft extends through the two flexible bushes. Each of the wheel frames has apertures for receiving the illuminating items.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Publication date: February 28, 2002
    Inventor: Dai Ming-Li
  • Patent number: 6322233
    Abstract: An emergency flashlight includes a handle portion and a rotary portion mounted on the handle portion for rotation about a rotary axis. An elongate swing shaft has one end mounted to the rotary portion to rotate therewith, the other end extending substantially radially away from the rotary portion. A light-producing means is mounted on the swing shaft adjacent the end remote from the rotary portion. Inside the handle portion are located generating means and gear means, allowing electrical energy to be created by swinging the handle in a circular motion, thereby causing the swing shaft and the rotary portion to rotate with respect to the handle portion. Conductive means such as wires are provided to carry the electrical energy to the bulb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Inventor: Paul K. Brandt
  • Patent number: 6276811
    Abstract: The problem of the present invention resides in providing a projector having a telescopic post which is easy to deal with a multiple stage structure, capable of setting illumination devices at high positions, sufficiently considering also of safety and excellent in operability. The resolving means is as follows. There is provided a telescopic post in which a plurality of middle pipe posts having successively reduced inner diameters are ascendably and descendably inserted into a base pipe post fixed to a carriage and the respective middle pipe posts are ascended and extended by elastic force of built-in gas dampers. The gas dampers are of a gas damper structure of a tandem type connected in a vertical direction in the telescopic post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2001
    Assignee: Green Service Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tokujin Yoshimori, Masayuki Taguchi
  • Patent number: 6220719
    Abstract: A renewable energy flashlight comprises a housing and a barrel located within the housing. A wire coil wraps around the barrel, between the barrel and the housing. A magnet oscillates within the barrel when the flashlight is shaken, generating an alternating current in the coil. Two springs at either end of the barrel cause the magnet to recoil when the magnet strikes the springs. As an alternative, rebound magnets oriented to repel the charging magnet may be installed within the barrel at either end, to cause the magnet to recoil from the ends. An electronics assembly within the housing includes a capacitor for storing charge, a rectifier connected to the capacitor, and means for conducting current flowing in the coil to the rectifier, to charge the capacitor. An LED is connected to the capacitor by means of a switch, and lights up when the switch is switched on.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Assignee: Applied Innovative Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven Robert Vetorino, James Victor Platt, Douglass Anderson Springer
  • Publication number: 20010000305
    Abstract: A rail-car status-indicating assembly is provided for mounting to the axles of railcars. A solenoid and a magnet are part of the assembly installed each to one of a non-rotating structure and a rotating structure which co-rotates with the axle so that each time the solenoid enters the magnets field a current is induced. Preferably, a housing forms the rotating structure for protecting the inductive components. A bearing and pendulum are mounted within the housing to form a non-rotating structure. Magnetically induced co-rotation is eliminated by mounting of the electrical components to an offset pivoted structure. One form of low-power status device is light emitting diodes, electrically connected to the solenoid for repeated emission of light visible to oncoming motorists. Other embodiments include use of low power temperature sensors and the use of LEDs to transmit two or more status condition or via RF transceivers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2000
    Publication date: April 19, 2001
    Inventor: Wayne H. Murray
  • Patent number: 6176596
    Abstract: A combination flashlight and electrical power source assembly includes an emitter and fuel system module, a fuel cartridge module fixed to the emitter and fuel system module, a photovoltaic conversion module attachable to a selected one of the emitter and fuel system module and the fuel cartridge module, and a flashlight lens module attachable to the other of the emitter and fuel system module and the fuel cartridge module. When the photovoltaic conversion module is attached to the emitter and fuel system module and the flashlight lens module is attached to the fuel cartridge module, the photovoltaic conversion module is active, the flashlight lens module functions as an end cap, and the assembly functions as an electrical power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2001
    Assignee: Thermo Power Corporation
    Inventors: Kailash C. Shukla, Edward F. Doyle, Frederick E. Becker, Ann S. Buck, Andrew E. Masters, Maurice Nunes
  • Patent number: 6116763
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for illuminating rotating wheels are described. The device requires no external power and relies on the rotation of the wheeled power generator located in the hub cap or other mounting area of the wheel. Construction comprises a coil having an axis of rotation, the coil being substantially on the axis of the wheel so that when the wheel rotates, the coil rotates similarly. A magnet is mounted around the coil in such a manner that it is self orienting. This is achieved by means of an asymmetric weight which is of sufficient dimensions and weight so as to counteract the rotational tendencies of the structure to which it is rotatably mounted. In a preferred embodiment, the weight is attached to the magnet by one or more elongated members incorporating compression means which absorb transitory vibrations experienced by the weight during the vehicle's movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Inventor: Richard John King
  • Patent number: 6086214
    Abstract: A wind powered lamp for generating light when moving air such as wind or a breeze passes over it. The lamp includes an elongate shaft having a first end mountable to a support structure. A generator for generating electrical energy is mounted to a second end of the shaft. The generator is rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the shaft to generate electrical power. A housing substantially encloses the generator. The housing has a plurality of rotor blades extending in a direction radially outwards from the longitudinal axis of the shaft. The housing is coupled to the generator such that rotation of the housing rotates the generator about the longitudinal axis of the shaft to generate electrical energy. A plurality of light sources are also substantially enclosed in the housing and are electrically connected to the generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Inventor: Philip G. Ridge
  • Patent number: 6036333
    Abstract: An emergency lighting system 10 for use on the outlet 101 of a conventional faucet 100 and including a generally T-shaped housing member 20 having a cross-arm portion 22 that is connected on one end 24 to the faucet outlet 101 and has an interior fluid flow deflector element 26 disposed above the intersection of the cross-arm portion 22 with the stem portion 21 of the housing member 20 which contains a power generating unit 12 and an illumination unit 13; wherein, the power generating unit 12 includes a turbine element 26 which is positioned beneath the fluid flow deflector element 26 for supplying electrical current to the illumination unit 13 when pressurized water flows over the fluid flow deflector element 26.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Inventor: Andrew Spiller
  • Patent number: 5982059
    Abstract: A generator and lighting assembly is provided for use on a mechanism, e.g. a power driven tool, having a shaft that is rotated during use. The assembly includes a rotor assembly 122 including a rotor shaft 102 affixed to the mechanism shaft, and a permanent magnet 132 supported on the rotor shaft for rotation therewith. A stator assembly 124 is also provided, and includes a body presenting pair of electrically conductive arms 138 extending on opposite sides of the rotor and an electrically conductive shank 140 connecting the arms together, and a winding 136 of electrically conductive wire supported on the body and presenting a pair of opposed ends. The assembly includes a lamp assembly 128 for providing illumination to an area to be lighted, and includes a light emitting diode (LED) embedded in a solid transparent bulb formed of a synthetic resin composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Inventor: Marty J. Anderson
  • Patent number: 5975714
    Abstract: A renewable energy flashlight comprises a housing and a barrel located within the housing. The barrel has a wire coil wrapped around it, between the barrel and the housing. A magnet disposed within the barrel oscillates within the barrel when the barrel is shaken, generating an alternating current in the coil. Two springs at either end of the barrel cause the magnet to recoil when the magnet strikes the springs. An electronics assembly located within the housing includes a capacitor for storing charge, a rectifier connected to the capacitor, and means for conducting current flowing in the coil to the rectifier, to provide rectified current to the capacitor and charge the capacitor. A light emitting diode (LED) is connected to the capacitor by means of a switch, so the LED lights up when the switch is switched on.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Assignee: Applied Innovative Technologies, Incorporated
    Inventors: Steven Robert Vetorino, James Victor Platt, Douglass Anderson Springer
  • Patent number: 5873600
    Abstract: The present invention includes a modular component skate wheel particularly usable in connection with preferably an in-line skate boot. All of the components are interchangeable and the components in preferred embodiments include snap fit surfaces. Preferably, a three piece wheel with interchangeable tire, hub and stationary drum is included to allow the user to adapt the modular skate wheels to the intended purpose. The tires may contain at least one light source for purposes of illuminating the preferably clear, transparent (or translucent) tires. The removable inner hub may be adaptable to contain a two-bearing configuration similar to existing skate wheels for the lightweight skating and maneuverability, such as required for roller hockey or speed skating. A generator may be snapped into the inner hub and used as a means of power to illuminate a light source contained within the tire or located on the boot if a flashy appearance is desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1999
    Inventor: Pervis Conway
  • Patent number: 5857762
    Abstract: A bicycle lighting system comprising a dynamo generator, integrated rechargeable batteries and an integrated electronic circuitry, the bicycle being an exemplary embodiment of pedal-driven vehicles provided with standard front and rear lamps. Hitherto known systems operate with conventional dynamos having an efficiency far too low to provide power to energize lamps and simultaneously charge batteries at speeds below 15 kmph. The inventive generator is constructed such that a rotating magnetic-circuit arrangement with a stationary air-core coil and specially defined pole shoes achieve 90% efficiency. At 5 to 7 kmph, at least 4 W energy is available for energizing lamps and rapidly charging batteries. From standstill to approximately 5 kmph, the batteries energize the lamps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1999
    Inventor: Edwin Schwaller
  • Patent number: 5839817
    Abstract: A dynamo-powered torch operative without a power supply in the form of a battery is disclosed. The dynamo-powered torch includes a cylindrical hollow body and a dynamo housed in the cylindrical hollow body. The cylindrical hollow body has a knob disposed at a rear end thereof. The knob has an axle centrally mounted on a face of the knob and a spiral power spring mounted around the axle. A clamp is mounted on the axle of the knob and driven by the spiral power spring. A gear train, which includes a first gear, a second gear, a drive shaft, a third gear and a forth gear, is provided for driving the dynamo. Two conductor strips extends from the dynamo to a bulb which is lit by current passing from the dynamo to the bulb via the conductor strips.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1998
    Inventor: Ming-Chih Wei
  • Patent number: 5828145
    Abstract: A bicycle generator-containing hub having a hub spindle (6), a hub body (2) rotatably mounted on the hub spindle (6), and a generator (10) disposed inside the hub body (2).The generator includes a cylindrical magnet assembly (12) having north poles and south poles arranged alternately along an inner peripheral wall of the hub body (2), and a plurality of generating coil units (11a, 11b, 11c) arranged inside the cylindrical magnet assembly (12) and axially of the hub spindle.Each of the generating coil units includes a first core element (50a, 50b, 50c) and a second core element (60a, 60b, 60c) opposed to each other axially of the hub spindle, and a generating coil (14) disposed between the first and second core elements to be coaxial with the hub spindle. The first core element has magnetic poles (51a, 51b, 51c) arranged at intervals in peripheral positions thereof and extending toward the second core element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1998
    Assignee: Shimano, Inc.
    Inventor: Kazunori Nakamura
  • Patent number: 5806963
    Abstract: A portable light tower including a frame, and an enclosure supported by the frame. The enclosure defines an enclosure interior having a hot zone, and includes a plurality of inlet apertures and a plurality of discharge apertures. A generator driven by an engine are located in the enclosure interior and the generator and engine emit a hot exhaust gas into the hot zone during operation. The light tower also includes an exhaust chamber located in said hot zone, said exhaust chamber having a floor panel and a fan mounted in said floor panel for drawing the hot gas into the chamber and out the discharge apertures. The chamber is adapted to prevent the backflow of hot gas into the enclosure interior. The tower also includes a unitary forklift and bail plate and at least two retention assemblies located along the exterior of the enclosure for maintaining an enclosure door in open and closed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Assignee: Ingersoll-Rand Company
    Inventors: David B. Miller, Michael Shane Dyson, R. Preston Stockner, T. Ray Laws, Richard L. Ijames, Donald G. Smith
  • Patent number: 5808450
    Abstract: An engine-driven alternator assembly includes an output winding having an internal impedance characteristic similar to a separate stationary ballast for high intensity discharge lamps. The output winding is direct connected to lamps in a mobile light tower application having four HID lamps. The alternator assembly includes four separate alternator units each having an output winding wound to establish the inherent internal impedance to provide a ballast source for the connected lamp. Each alternator unit has its rotor mounted on a common shaft connected to the shaft of the engine. Each alternator unit establishes an open circuit voltage to strike an arc across the HID lamp and then a sustaining voltage to maintain current flow as well as limiting the current to the lamp. The alternator unit has a high frequency output, preferably within 200 to 600 hertz. The alternator unit is a permanent magnet alternator, a switched reluctance alternator, an induction alternator, or a wound synchronous alternator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Assignee: Marathon Electric Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventors: Stanley S. Chula, Gary L. Schurter, Lowell R. Stuebinger, Thomas H. Coleman, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5793130
    Abstract: A miniature electric generator and lighting apparatus is provided for use in a power-driven tool. The apparatus includes a rotor assembly 22 having a permanent magnet, and a stator assembly 24 within which the shaft and magnet are received. The stator assembly 24 includes a pair of electrically conductive arms 38 extending on opposite sides of the rotor, an electrically conductive shank 40 connecting the arms together, and a winding 36 of electrically conductive wire presenting a pair of opposed ends. A lamp 54 is connected to the ends of the winding by a circuit 52 so that it is powered upon rotation of the shaft. A housing assembly 30 supports the stator assembly 24 on the output shaft of the tool, and is secured to the tool. The housing assembly 30 and cooperating structure 42 position the stator assembly 24 relative to the magnet 32 to prevent contact between the stator element 34 and the magnet during rotation of the output shaft 14.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Inventor: Marty J. Anderson
  • Patent number: 5793164
    Abstract: A wing tip system for rotor craft includes a downwardly-facing light housing to provide a visual aid to rotor wingtip position. This system is visible to crew members and to adjacent crew, particularly when using night vision goggles (NVG) or other ambient night vision (ANVIS) equipment. This allows tip lighting to be provided in situations where covert helicopter operations are desired. The lighting further is compatible with ANVIS equipment, in that it permits operation noncandescent light in order to prevent blooming or other effects which would otherwise diminish the effectiveness of the ANVIS equipment. The lighting system further has a higher level of illumination, in which rotor tip lighting is increased to become more visible without the use of ANVIS equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Inventor: Ricky J. Authier