Special Switch Operator Patents (Class 362/394)
  • Patent number: 7832910
    Abstract: A lighting fixture stanchion arm generally includes a housing, a guard lever supported in the housing, a switch mechanism supported in the housing and a locking pin. The housing has an entry for receiving a radial finger of a fixture head and an aperture for receiving the locking pin. The guard lever is movable from a home position to an away position by the radial finger of the fixture head upon rotation of the fixture head with respect to the housing, wherein the guard lever blocks the locking pin aperture of the housing when in the home position. The locking pin is insertable in the locking pin aperture of the housing for actuating the switch mechanism when the lever guard is moved to the away position by the radial finger of the fixture head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.
    Inventor: Rick W. Kauffman
  • Patent number: 7819545
    Abstract: An outdoor solar powered decorative lighting system includes a light string having a plurality of light bulbs evenly spaced along the length of the string and being electrically connected to a roof mounted solar collector having one or more solar panels or cells for collecting sunlight—radiant energy—from the sun and which is then conveyed to a rechargeable battery enclosed within the solar collector for discharge to provide the power to illuminate the light bulbs and thus create the decorative lighting effect with the solar collector including a switch to automatically turn the light bulbs on at dusk and to switch the light bulbs off at the following sunrise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Inventor: Gwendolyn R. Ponamar
  • Patent number: 7806553
    Abstract: An illuminable cosmetic carrying bag includes a body with a plurality of walls arranged in such a manner to create a storage chamber therein. One of such walls is transparent and situated along an entire anterior side of the body, and the body further has a protective flap pivotally coupled to a bottom edge of the transparent wall. Such a protective flap covers an entire surface area of the transparent wall when articulated to a closed position. The device further includes a mechanism for removably displaying the cosmetic items on an interior face of the protective flap, and a mechanism for illuminating the storage chamber and the protective flap so that the cosmetic items are illuminated while displayed on the interior face of the protective flap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Inventor: Vurnette Fluelling
  • Patent number: 7802898
    Abstract: A switch assembly that is utilized as a tail cap of a lighting device. The switch assembly comprises a depressible switch that allows the user to activate the lighting device. In an illustrative, non-limiting embodiment, the switch assembly has four channels, providing for at least three different light functions and a locking channel. In these non-limiting embodiments, the different channels are defined by the axial position of the rotatable portion relative to the lighting device body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Blackhawk Industries Product Group Unlimited LLC
    Inventors: Thomas M. Gregory, Robert A. Kincaid, Craig Adam Lamb, Birten L. Todd, Eric M. Yeates, Clifton L. Cook, Thomas A. Marx, John E. Proc
  • Patent number: 7780319
    Abstract: A panel assembly includes a panel (10) having a light-pervious area (142), a light source (60) attached on the panel for lighting the light-pervious area, a variable resistor (30) electrically connected in series with the light source, and a rotating member (40) rotatably attached on the panel, the rotating member is engagingly coupled to the variable resistor and is manually rotatable in a manner that a resistance of the variable resistor is adjusted accordingly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yun-Lung Chen, Jian Hu, Qing-Hao Wu, Xian-Huang Gao
  • Patent number: 7758200
    Abstract: A responsive light emitting diode (LED) module unit includes a control unit (1), a light emitting device (2), and a pouch (5) for enclosing said control unit (1) and said light emitting device (2) therein. Said control unit (1) has rigid plastic housing (15) encloses a printed circuit board (PCB) (11), a battery (12), a ball-rolling switch (14), and an integrated circuit (IC) processor (16). Said light emitting device (2) has a membrane circuit (3), and a plurality of LEDs (4) to emit light. Said pouch (5) is composed of a soft polycarbonate or polyvinyl chloride base (51) and a soft polycarbonate or polyvinyl chloride cover (52) with surface decoration patterns as their perimeters sealed by high frequency wave for receiving said control unit (1) and said LEDs (4), further the pouch is coupled to an upper surface of an object (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Inventor: Wei-Jei Tuan
  • Patent number: 7717583
    Abstract: A responsive luminous pad includes a luminous module (10), and a pad (20) encloses the module (10) to a middle portion inside the pad (20). The module (10) includes a harden plastics (15) further encloses a printed circuit board (PCB) (11), a battery (12), light emitting diode (LED) (13), rolling ball switch (14), and integrated circuit (IC) processor (16) inside the plastics. Said pad (20) includes a waterproof first sheet (22B), and a waterproof second sheet (22A) printed with patterns. Rims of both first, second sheets (22B, 22A) are heat weld to form a cavity in between for receiving the luminous module (10) a widened middle portion inside the pad, and the rims further coupled to a surface of a textile (30).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Inventor: Wei-Jei Tuan
  • Patent number: 7717586
    Abstract: A foldable, rechargeable light emitting diode (LED) pocket light is disclosed. The light includes a first compartment, a second compartment and a hinge element. The first compartment has a housing, a plurality of LED lights, a rotatable hinge, and a hook for hanging the light. The second compartment includes a housing, a member for receiving the rotatable hinge and a power source. The light also includes an activating member and circuitry for activating the LED lights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: E-Z Red Company
    Inventor: Mark Tucker
  • Patent number: 7717584
    Abstract: A waterproof vibrating and twinkling LED backlighting device includes: a main body (1), said main body (1) comprises a light-tight, hollow and polymorphous frame (11), and a transparent cover plate (12) installed on top of said frame (11); a circuit element (3), said circuit element (3) comprises a circuit board (31) and a circuit-control element (32) electrically connects with the circuit board (31); at least one light emitting device (4) which electrically connects with the circuit board (31), and its light emitting angle is parallel with the circuit board (31), said light emitting device (4) comprises: at least one Light-Emitting Diode (LED) (41) mounted on the side of the surface of said circuit board (31) and connected electrically with which; a power supply (5); a ball-rolling switch (6) electrically connects with the circuit element (3); and a transparent encapsulation body (2) filled inside the main body (1) to cover the circuit element (3), power supply (5) and ball-rolling switch (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Inventor: Wei-Jei Tuan
  • Patent number: 7699499
    Abstract: The invention provides an automated light-emitting apparatus, which can be disposed in an object, includes a light-emitting unit, a force-sensing module, and a power-generating module. The force-sensing module includes a first component and a second component engaged to the first component. When the object receives an external force, the force-sensing module changes the distance between a first portion of the first component and a second portion of the second component. Moreover, the power-generating module includes a coil coupled to a magnetic member, the magnetic member engaged to the first component, and a magnetic conductor engaged to the second component. Particularly, when the distance between the first portion and the second portion is changed, the coil generates an induced electromotive force for supporting the light-emitting unit with needed power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Inventor: Juinne-Ching Liao
  • Patent number: 7699493
    Abstract: A personal light including a battery power source connected in series with a light-emitting diode (LED) light source and a switching mechanism configured for non-contact actuation are disposed within an environmentally sealed chamber. A reflector is employed to maximize reflection of light emanating from the LED and a lens having an anti-reflective coating thereon associated with the LED opposite the reflector to enhance the light output and magnify the narrow beam of the LED. The switch employs an actuation mechanism exterior to the chamber to activate and deactivate the light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Inventor: Robert L. Canella
  • Patent number: 7695154
    Abstract: A customized light module comprising is provided according to one embodiment of this disclosure. The customized light module, according to this embodiment, includes a housing, a light source, a removable decorative cap and a battery. The housing includes a stem configured to secure the customized light module within an aperture of an article of footwear. The light source is coupled with the housing. The decorative cap may be removably coupled with the housing and may be configured to illuminate when the light source is illuminates. The battery may be accessibly secured within the housing with a two-stage mechanism. The two-stage mechanism, for example, may include a child lock. In some embodiments, the housing has at least two configurations: a first configuration and a second configuration. A circuit is created between the battery and the light source in the first configuration and closed in the second configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: DPM Associates, LLC
    Inventors: Barbara Kay Ellenburg, Parker Stephen Ellenburg, Howard Steve Ellenburg
  • Patent number: 7661836
    Abstract: A combined illuminated table and canopy includes a free-standing table, a canopy adjustably connected to the table and disposed thereabove at an elevated position, and means for illuminating a perimeter of the table such that a top surface of the table becomes illuminated. Such an illuminating means includes a plurality of light-emitting sources attached to the table, a transformer electrically coupled directly to the light-emitting sources, and releasably engaged male and female shafts have detachably abutted first and second contacts. A solar panel is electrically coupled to the first contact, and a contact mechanism is electrically connected to such first and second contacts as well as the existing external supply source in such a manner that the existing external power supply source is automatically disengaged from the light-emitting sources when the first contact is engaged from the second contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Inventor: Jaime Naranjo
  • Patent number: 7626509
    Abstract: An easily deployable miniature, LED light unit specifically for home security yard signs that is rechargeable by means of a solar cell array having a light sensor which automatically activates the light at dusk and deactivates it at dawn. The solar light unit is contained in a unique compact molded housing that positions the components and also includes an integral clamp-mount specifically for slide-on mounting to the stakes of typical home security signs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Inventor: Lance Dean
  • Patent number: 7585092
    Abstract: Motion-activated lamps are disclosed herein. Preferred motion-activated lamps include a free-standing base housing a motion sensor and a battery power source operably connected to an electrical circuit, an adjustable neck, and means for emitting light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Inventor: Tom Huffman
  • Patent number: 7578603
    Abstract: A light emitting golf ball is provided that includes a spherical housing, a fixing container, a light emitting device, a first fitting portion, and a second fitting portion. The light emitting device is disposed in the fixing container and includes an acoustic wave sensor, a controller, one or more light emitting elements and an electricity supplier. When the acoustic wave sensor receives an external acoustic wave signal higher than a predetermined value, it sends out an activating signal to the controller so that at least one light emitting element emits light. This invention is irrelevant to the hitting direction. It has an extremely low defective rate. Furthermore, the product life can be prolonged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Inventors: Chang-Hsiu Huang, Wei-Lung Chou
  • Publication number: 20090207609
    Abstract: Socket arrangements for releasably mounting LEDs and light fixtures or assemblies employing such sockets are described. The socket arrangements facilitate the replacement of LEDs to replace an original LED with a brighter replacement, to change the color of the LED, to replace a single LED with a multiple chip LED, to replace a damaged or burned out LED with a new one, or the like. In further assemblies with plural LEDs, the use of ready release sockets facilitates selective replacement of an LED or LEDs and greatly enhances the flexibility of such units.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2009
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Applicant: Cree, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Edward Higley, Faramarz Hafezi
  • Patent number: 7540625
    Abstract: A flashlight having a lamp, a power storage element, a switch, and an electronic controller. The controller has a switch input connected to the switch and operates in response to the input to deliver power from the power storage element to the lamp. The controller may be directly connected to each of the lamp, source, and switch. The switch may include several separate contact elements operating sequentially in response to movement of a switch actuator. The controller may provide different illumination levels and functions in response to different pressures and durations of actuation. The flashlight may include a dimmer level control to establish an intermediate “dimmed” output level, and operate to provide the selected dimmed output when the switch is depressed by an intermediate amount, and to provide a greater maximum output level in response to full actuation of the switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Assignee: Surefire LLC
    Inventors: John W. Matthews, William A. Hunt
  • Publication number: 20090135606
    Abstract: A multi-reflector mechanism for a LED light source which comprises a LED light source, an outer parabolic reflector, an inner parabolic reflector and a sliding switch, wherein the inner reflector is disposed within the outer reflector with the focuses of both reflectors being different points on a common axis, and the focus of the outer reflector being the highest one nearest to the plane of the opening of the outer reflector; and the LED light source is disposed within the inner reflector and protrudes out from the vertex of the inner reflector and is coaxially and adjustably disposed at or near the focus of the inner reflector or of the outer reflector, and the light emitting angle of the LED light source is larger than the angle formed by the two points on the edge of the opening forming the diameter thereof and the focus of the inner reflector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2007
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Applicant: CALTRACO INTERNATIONAL LIMITED
    Inventor: TONY CHUNLUNG YOUNG
  • Patent number: 7537358
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for preventing pests sensitive to light from inhabiting an enclosed area. In one embodiment, the method includes providing a strobe light configured to emit high intensity flashes of light in a continuously repeated pattern, a mounting mechanism configured to mount the strobe light in the enclosed area, and a power source configured to supply energy to the strobe light; placing the strobe light in the enclosed area in a relatively central location; providing power to the strobe light; and driving pests sensitive to light from the enclosed area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Inventors: Michael Joseph De Ginto, William Lester Earl
  • Patent number: 7534006
    Abstract: A disposable flashlight uniquely suited to operation in high humidity and water exposure conditions, such as those encountered in search and rescue missions at sea. The bulb, which is preferably a high intensity super-bright light emitting diode, is energized to produce light using a battery connected to it via a switch and an electrical circuit. The switch completes the electrical circuit via an electrically conducting fluid, allowing the electrical current to flow from the battery and the bulb to illuminate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Inventors: Vinod Kumar Goswami, Vinita Goswami
  • Publication number: 20090086487
    Abstract: A low-voltage LED lighting system and method for installation thereof in which the system includes: (a) at least one LED lighting fixture each having one or more LEDs; (b) at least one remotely-located power driver; and (c) interconnections between the at least one LED fixture and the at least one driver using communication network cabling and standard 8P8C network connectors. Preferred lighting fixtures are recessed lighting fixtures adapted for ceiling mounting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Publication date: April 2, 2009
    Applicant: RUUD LIGHTING, INC.
    Inventors: Alan J. Ruud, Wayne P. Guillien, David G. Jansson
  • Patent number: 7500761
    Abstract: The invention provides a circuit device, embedded in an object, which includes N light-emitting devices, a motion-actuated switch, a controller, a battery, and a water-proof enclosure, N is an integer larger than 2. In addition, each light-emitting device includes a respective first light-emitting diode and a second light-emitting diode. The motion-actuated switch is capable of sensing a motion of the object, for generating a controlling signal. The controller is electrically connected to the motion-actuated switch and each of the light-emitting devices for driving the first light-emitting diodes and the second diodes lighting on the basis of at least one lighting sequence when triggered by the controlling signal from the motion-actuated switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2009
    Inventor: Shen-Ko Tseng
  • Publication number: 20090059606
    Abstract: The removable LED track light device has plurality of LED light-units fit within track means. At least one of LED element(s) are fit within the LED light-unit geometric construction and element(s) electric poles are connected with conductive mean, resilient conductive means, contact means, bus means to build the electric signal(s) deliver from the preferred AC or DC power source, circuit means, switch means, sensor means, timer means, control means to element(s) to make desired light function for illumination. The said LED-units have geometric construction and space to allow element(s) fix on position or incorporated with reflector means to make the said reflector means can be rotating, swivel, tilt by rotating means. LED light-unit incorporate with bracket means to arrange LED element assembly away from the LED light-unit base which has variety different construction and polarization consideration to make the contact means to fit within track means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2008
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Inventor: Tseng-Lu Chien
  • Patent number: 7478926
    Abstract: A lamp socket has a casing, a switching contact assembly, a stem assembly, an electric tab, a photo switch, a first electric connector and a second electric connector. The switching contact assembly is mounted in the casing and around the stem assembly. The stem assembly has a pawl. The pawl has multiple surfaces. The electric tab is mounted on two of the surfaces of the pawl and selectively contacts the switching contact assembly. The first electric connector and the second electric connector are connected electrically to the photo switch. The contact between the electric tab and the switching contact assembly switches via turning the stem assembly to turn on or off two lights. Furthermore, the lamp socket turns on one of the lights based on ambient light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Assignee: Groton Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Chin-Feng Huang
  • Patent number: 7461957
    Abstract: A lighting device includes a lighting device chassis and a handle extending of the top of the lighting device chassis. A lighting device mount extends from the bottom surface of the lighting device chassis. The mount is realeasably coupled to the device chassis stand. The stand is capable of supporting the lighting device chassis. The lighting device also includes a power cord having an activation device. The chassis stand includes a cord storage member. The power cord and activation device are storable about the cord storage member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Assignee: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventors: Roy A. Thompson, Jacob A. Marks
  • Publication number: 20080259606
    Abstract: A light fixture for house number plates has a control circuit to automatically detect light in response the light intensity of sunshine to control timing of activation of the light fixture to illuminate a house number plate. It has a lamp which can be driven by electric power converted through a solar energy panel to meet environmental protection requirement. An overload protection circuit is provided to increase the life span of the light fixture. The light fixture is coupled with the house number plate to provide effective illumination and environmental protection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2007
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Inventor: Lung-Hsien Chen
  • Publication number: 20080253128
    Abstract: A lamp socket with multiple switches has a casing, a switching contact assembly, a stem assembly, an electric tab assembly, a photo switch, a first electric connector and a second electric connector. The switching contact assembly is mounted in the casing and around the stem assembly. The stem assembly has multiple pans. The electric tab assembly is mounted on two of the multiple pans and selectively connects the switching contact assembly. The first electric connector and the second electric connector are connected electrically to the photo switch. The electric tab assembly connects the switching contact assembly via turning the stem assembly to turn on or off a three-way bulb. Furthermore, the lamp socket turns on a three-way bulb based on ambient light.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2007
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Applicant: GROTON INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventor: Chin-Feng HUANG
  • Patent number: 7419275
    Abstract: A printed circuit board (PCB) has a “U” shape circuit connected to a light emitting diode (LED) by a proximal end, connected to a conducting spring by a distal end. LED mounted inside a conducting shell to emit light toward a light guide tube by magnetic attraction realized by a conducting member having a conducting pole; a refill fits through the light guide tube, and a magnet mounted inside a cap member. One lead of the LED electrically connected to an anode of batteries, the other lead electrically connected to the conducting shell. But the batteries are insulated from the conducting shell; a cathode of the batteries electrically connected to the conducting pole, which is insulated from the conducting shell, as the magnet attracts to the conducting pole and conducting shell by magnetic attraction to conduct an electric current, the LED is lit up for illumination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Inventor: Ming Huang
  • Patent number: 7410269
    Abstract: A decorative light system includes a base and a portable light device capable of communicating with each other to generate a light show. The system includes a base defining a receptacle and including a microcontroller, a transceiver operably coupled to the microcontroller and adapted to generate a control signal, a first power source operably coupled to the microcontroller, and a user interface operably coupled to the microcontroller and including at least one switch for activating the microcontroller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin Harrity, Simon M. Conway, Kamran Faterioun, Sarah E. Heathcock, Matthew Abbondanzio, Scott W. Demarest, Scott D. Walter, Ronald R. Dir, Edwin T. Horton
  • Patent number: 7401935
    Abstract: Various embodiments relate to beverage accessory devices for use within beverage receptacles. In one exemplary embodiment, a beverage accessory device generally includes a housing having sidewalls defining a cavity therein. A substantially fluid-tight container is within the cavity of the housing. The container includes sidewalls defining a chamber. At least one of the container's sidewalls is spaced apart from at least one of the housing's sidewalls such that a portion of the housing's cavity remains separating the at least one container sidewall from the at least one housing sidewall. At least one electric light source is substantially entirely within the container's chamber. The chamber can also be configured for receiving at least one power source. The at least one electric light source is operable for illuminating at least a portion of a liquid within the beverage receptacle when the beverage accessory device is within the beverage receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Inventor: Carl R. VanderSchuit
  • Patent number: 7380965
    Abstract: A light source apparatus is disclosed which allows effective cooling of an arc tube even with a small amount of wind. The light source apparatus has a light emitter and a reflector which reflects light from the light emitter and causes the reflected light to emerge. The light source apparatus also has a wind-guiding member which has a flow inlet and a flow outlet of cooling wind and has a wall portion at a position opposite to the flow inlet, the wall portion guiding the cooling wind toward the light emitter in the reflector. The light source apparatus which has a reflector to which an arc tube is fixed via a connecting member, and has a first flow path on which cooling wind from a fan flows to cool an area of the arc tube closer to the connecting member, and a second flow path on which cooling wind from the fan flows to cool an area of the arc tube closer to a light emitting portion. The second flow path is formed separately from the first flow path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Daisuke Nakashita
  • Patent number: 7374327
    Abstract: A flat planar light fixture formed of a translucent panel with for the transmission of light is illuminated by a plurality of high brightness LEDs disposed along the edges thereof. A layer of reflective material on a back surface of the panel facilitates reflection and dispersion of light that occurs within the panel through a front surface thereof. The LEDs are powered by low-voltage direct current and coupled with an emergency backup battery that is maintained in a charged condition by household current. The light fixture may be operatively connected with a signal receiver that controls the light intensity and turns the LEDs on and off responsive to signals transmitted from a remote signal transmitter. The LEDs may be provided in different colors to allow the user to vary the color of illumination. The light fixture may also be operatively connected with an alarm system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Inventor: Craig J. Schexnaider
  • Patent number: 7364329
    Abstract: An adaptor (10) including a sensor (18), a gimbal housing (12) having a male connector (14) at one end and an female connector (16) at another end, wherein the male connector (14) is configured to connect with an electrical socket and the female connector (16) is configured to connect with an electrical device, and a circuit for selectively controlling the electrical device in response to the sensor (18). The gimbal housing (12) is adapted to rotate around the male connector (14) about a first axis and support the sensor (18) for independent rotation about a second axis perpendicular to the first axis so that the sensor (18) can be moved to a selectable sensing orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Assignee: Beon Light Corporation Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Peter Grahame Murray, Geoffrey Laurance Jackel
  • Patent number: 7357539
    Abstract: A proportional brake light system having an LED display carried on a motor vehicle and capable of instantaneously warning motorists following from behind whether and how quickly the vehicle is likely to stop in response to an operator generated foot pressure being applied to the brake pedal shoe. The brake pedal shoe of the vehicle has a hollow interior, and an optical signal is transmitted along an optical transmission path extending therethrough. As the pressure applied by the operator to the brake pedal shoe is increased, more of the optical signal being transmitted along the optical transmission path is interrupted. A multi-stage comparator is responsive to an interruption of the optical signal so as to cause a corresponding number of LEDs from the display to be illuminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Inventor: Dean Voelker
  • Patent number: 7344270
    Abstract: A flashlight has a single lamp, a power storage element, and a switch. The switch operates by being incremented through a sequence of states, and each increment may be caused an application and release of pressure. The different states correspond to different lamp brightness levels, and may include an off state. An electronic controller may be included with connections to each of a number of contacts on the switch. The lamp may be a single LED efficiently operable over a range of power and brightness levels at a consistent color output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Assignee: Surefire, LLC
    Inventor: Paul Y. Kim
  • Patent number: 7330115
    Abstract: An electronic device control system includes a base unit that includes a housing. A power input and a power output are each mounted in the housing and are electrically coupled to each other. The power input comprises a male plug and the power output comprising a female plug. A processor is electrically coupled to the power input and the power output. The processor is adapted for selectively turning on electrical power from the power input to the power output. A primary motion detector is mounted on an outer surface of the housing and is electrically coupled to the processor. The primary motion detector is adapted for sending a motion signal to the processor when the motion detector detects motion. The processor turns on power to the power output when the processor receives the motion signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Inventor: John P. Zuba
  • Patent number: 7329024
    Abstract: A lighting apparatus is provided including an array of light emitting diodes (LEDs) disposed on a base. The base is configured to move heat away from the array of LEDs to other portions of the base and further to the atmosphere or an adjacent housing. In one embodiment, a native oxide on the base electrically insulates the base from the LEDs. In another embodiment, a cover is removably disposed over the array of LEDs, and removal of the cover prevents electrical energization of the LEDs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Assignee: Permlight Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Manuel Lynch, Lenny Fraitag, Rehana Wijesinghe
  • Publication number: 20070285913
    Abstract: A device (50) with modal lighting includes a translucent layer (74); a first light source (60) operative to project light (94) through the translucent layer (74); and a second light source (65b) operative to project light (93) through the translucent layer (74). The first light source (60) prevents light (91) projected from the second light source (65b) from entering a portion (74a) of the translucent layer. A method (250) for modal lighting in a device includes projecting light by a first light source through a translucent layer (260); projecting light by a second light source through the translucent layer (270); and preventing, by the first light source light, projected by the second light source from entering a portion of the translucent layer (280).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2006
    Publication date: December 13, 2007
    Applicant: MOTOROLA, INC.
    Inventors: Adam K. Cybart, Andy K. Baw, David G. Fliszar, Harold J. Gorenz, Rick Latella
  • Patent number: 7303303
    Abstract: An illuminating device in combination with a microphone boom attached to a helmet worn by an operator. The illumination device is actuated by either lip action or push button. The brightness of the selected illumination is changeable by means of a potentiometer thumbwheel. The illumination device provides one spot and three flood light emitting diodes which may individually or as a group switched on or off. The illumination device has a universal clamping system permitting attachment to single or double boom microphone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Inventors: Derek Haynes, Stuart M. Jenkins
  • Patent number: 7298244
    Abstract: An NBC marker light is designed to be simplistic, lightweight, and expendable. The case is two pieces, designed for ease of assembly. The assembly includes a circuit card, one or more batteries, light sources, typically IR and visible LEDs, and a custom designed rotary switch. A diffuser is designed to enhance side visibility in all directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: The United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: James M. Cress, Sr., Richard D. Wallace, Corey L. Piepenburg, Jerry Huen, Michael J. Trzeciak, Mark S. Schlein, Bruce Archambault
  • Publication number: 20070217184
    Abstract: A LED light assembly comprising a pivotal means of fastening, a plurality of LED light devices, and a housing adapted to be removably attached to a front piece holder of a traditional fire helmet. The means of selectively engaging LED lights comprises said front piece holder contacting a contact point on the switch of each LED light device, causing them to depress and actuate a mechanism that causes the LED bulbs to light.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2007
    Publication date: September 20, 2007
    Inventor: James Berry
  • Patent number: 7258469
    Abstract: A flat-panel lamp having a light-emitting surface with an integral contact sensitive layer located over the light-emitting surface that controls the activation and deactivation of the lamp and a controller for supplying power to the lamp and responsive to a signal provided by the integral contact sensitive layer for controlling the supply of the power to the flat panel lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2007
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Joseph A. Manico, Ronald S. Cok
  • Patent number: 7255471
    Abstract: A night light having a lamp socket for holding a lamp and a lamp shade around the lamp such that when the lamp shade is removed from the lamp socket, power to the lamp is automatically interrupted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Assignee: Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Diorio, Jenkin P. Hua, Eddie A. Ling, Anthony Vallone
  • Patent number: 7255466
    Abstract: A vehicular control device includes a trim member having a plurality of graphics for identifying a plurality of manual activation regions and a printed circuit board having a plurality of proximity sensors. Each of the plurality of proximity sensors generates a respective electromagnetic field within a respective manual activation region and is responsive to an object disposed in the respective manual activation region. The printed circuit board is semi-translucent and includes a plurality of illumination elements for illuminating light away from the printed circuit board. A back cover member is adaptable to the trim member for encasing the printed circuit board therebetween. A sealing member is disposed between the trim member and the back cover member. The illuminating light from the plurality of illumination elements is reflected toward the printed circuit board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: Robert M. Schmidt, David A. Hein, Roberto Tomassi
  • Patent number: 7252414
    Abstract: An illuminating balloon with an inflatable envelope contains an illumination system having at least one electric light bulb, and inflating means equipped with an integrated fan designed to suck air in from the outside and to inject it into the envelope while keeping the latter in the inflated state. The assembly formed by the bulb and fan is covered by a bowl made of transparent or translucent plastic material, forming an explosion-proof isolating shield and a deflector of the discharge air for inflation of the envelope via passage apertures provided in the bowl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Assignee: Airstar
    Inventor: Pierre Chabert
  • Publication number: 20070139944
    Abstract: A vehicle room lamp includes a box-like body, a light source received within the box-like body, a switch provided within the box-like body so as to control the turning-on and -off of the light source, a light-transmitting portion which is provided at the box-like body at an opening thereof so as to move toward and away from the switch, and allows light from the light source to pass therethrough to the exterior of the box-like body, and an abutment member which is movable together with the light-transmitting portion, and can operate the switch in accordance with the movement of the light-transmitting portion toward the switch. The abutment member is disposed outside a light distribution range of light directed from the light source toward the light-transmitting portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2006
    Publication date: June 21, 2007
    Inventor: Kentaro Nagai
  • Patent number: 7220029
    Abstract: A lighting assembly (10) is adjustable between flood and spot lighting conditions for selectively illuminating an interior passenger compartment in a motor vehicle. The assembly (10) includes a housing (16) which clamps to a supporting member, such as a headliner (12), via a sleeve (18) interacting with a rotary cam lock (22). An LED light source (26) is orbitally supported within the housing (16) for projecting light in a directionally adjustable manner. A lens (50) is disposed in the light path (28) and is moveable between an extended spot position for task lighting and a retracted flood position for general illumination within the interior compartment. A switch (74) is responsive to movement of the lens (50) into its spot position for automatically energizing the LED (30). The switch (74) opens, thus de-energizing the LED (30) when the lens (50) is returned to its flood condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Assignee: Federal-Mogul World Wide, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen A. Bynum, Philip S. Hall
  • Patent number: 7186002
    Abstract: A flashlight having a lamp, a power storage element, a switch, and an electronic controller. The controller has a switch input connected to the switch and operates in response to the input to deliver power from the power storage element to the lamp. The controller may be directly connected to each of the lamp, source, and switch. The switch may include several separate contact elements operating sequentially in response to movement of a switch actuator. The controller may provide different illumination levels and functions in response to different pressures and durations of actuation. The flashlight may include a dimmer level control to establish an intermediate “dimmed” output level, and operate to provide the selected dimmed output when the switch is depressed by an intermediate amount, and to provide a greater maximum output level in response to full actuation of the switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Assignee: Surefire LLC
    Inventors: John W. Matthews, William A. Hunt
  • Patent number: 7185999
    Abstract: A flashlight senses when it is picked up, and then automatically turns on. When the flashlight is released or set back down, it automatically turns off. Touch or contact sensors sense the touch of a human hand, causing a circuit in the flashlight to switch on a light source, such as an LED. The flashlight is advantageously designed so that when grasped or picked up, the fingers of the user's hand lay over touch sensors. Various types of touch sensors may be used. The touch sensors may operate electrically, and without any movement, or moving parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Assignee: Eric Beare Associates Ltd.
    Inventor: Wing Kit Lui