Position Or Condition Responsive Switch Patents (Class 362/802)
  • Patent number: 4809141
    Abstract: An illuminated paper tray having a main housing with a well for storing individual sheets of paper. The rear portion of the housing incorporates electrical circuitry for energizing and de-energizing a light bulb, which light bulb illuminates the well of the housing storing the paper via a separating partition of translucent plastic. The illumination of the light bulb is controlled by the insertion or removal of a pen into a through-hole formed in the rear portion of the housing. When the pen is inserted in the housing, for storage, the light bulb is de-energized, whereas upon removal of the pen from the housing for writing, the light bulb is illuminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 28, 1989
    Assignee: The Cloverline, Inc.
    Inventors: Norbert Leopoldi, William P. Heinrich
  • Patent number: 4789922
    Abstract: A light suitable to be mounted upon the wall of a building or a room thereof wherein the light contains an apparatus comprising a weighted object which will be displaced at the existence of an earthquake of a given, preset magnitude and upon being displaced will close a circuit activating an emergency light in such manner that occupants in the area may see the light and be guided by it. The light is battery activated and may be of the type which is continually charged by normal household current and may include a low drain test light to indicate battery condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1987
    Date of Patent: December 6, 1988
    Assignees: Thomas Cheshire, Douglas A. Stanek
    Inventor: Thomas Cheshire
  • Patent number: 4774647
    Abstract: A trouble light incorporates a circuit breaker in its handle to reduce the possibility of shock to a user. The handle is formed of right and left shells and includes a screw-type receptacle for a lamp and an electrical plug receptacle. The circuit breaker is connected in a series with a power cord, and to the screw-type receptacle and the electrical plug receptacle. The circuit breaker instantly interrupts power to the receptacles upon detection of excess current flow in the circuit in the trouble light. The handle shells are molded from an insulating material such as plastic and internal webs are formed to retain the various electrical circuit elements in the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1987
    Date of Patent: September 27, 1988
    Assignee: Alert Safety Lite Products Co.
    Inventors: James D. Kovacik, James W. Kovacik, Thomas J. Blanch, Paul S. Blanch
  • Patent number: 4766525
    Abstract: A ladder beacon is provided which will aid firefighting and rescue personnel in locating a ladder in adverse conditions such as darkness, smoke and fog. The ladder beacon is a small self contained strobe light which is affixed to the top rung of a ladder and which is automatically activated when the ladder is raised to a vertical position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 23, 1988
    Inventor: Bernard M. Loughlin
  • Patent number: 4755791
    Abstract: A corner pole device for vehicles comprises a drive mechanism by which a pole assembly vertically telescopically movable with respect to a housing thereof disposed at a corner part of a vehicle body is driven to expand and contract between an expanded position and a housed position. The corner pole device further comprises a control means for automatically controlling the drive mechanism to thereby drive the pole assembly into a telescopic action, depending on a detection signal from a mechanism which detects the travelling condition of vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1987
    Date of Patent: July 5, 1988
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Mikio Kuroda
  • Patent number: 4754376
    Abstract: A battery operated lighting device is provided for removable attachment to the underside of the pivoted lid of a top-loading ice chest. When the lid is raised, the light is automatically activated by a position-sensing switch. The device is comprised of a holding bracket and a housing rotatively and removably held by the bracket. When removed from the holding bracket, the housing can function as an ordinary flash light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1987
    Date of Patent: June 28, 1988
    Inventor: Charles H. Winslow
  • Patent number: 4751618
    Abstract: A lighted automobile vanity mirror for mounting on an automobile sun visor has a switch for operating the illumination only when the vanity mirror is in the vertical position. This switch is a ball contact switch which rolls from an inoperative horizontal position of the vanity mirror to an operative vertical position where gravity draws the ball switch into contact with the circuits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1987
    Date of Patent: June 14, 1988
    Assignee: Rally Accessories, Inc.
    Inventor: Marc R. Iacovelli
  • Patent number: 4751625
    Abstract: It is a body-electrostatic induction type of lamp device, in which the parts include the lamp shade and the lamp stand with an electrical circuit; when a person's body touches one of the aforesaid parts, the lamp can be lighted up or turned off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1987
    Date of Patent: June 14, 1988
    Inventor: John Y. Lin
  • Patent number: 4751624
    Abstract: A recessed incandescent ceiling light fixture is provided with a heat sensing device for interrupting current flow to an incandescent bulb mounted in the fixture. The top wall of the fixture is encompassed within a cover member which is spaced from the top wall, the cover member including a depending skirt which outwardly laps the sidewalls of the fixture and defines a circumferential slot between the fixture walls and cover member. A heat sensor is mounted on the surface of the cover member in the area between the top wall of the housing and cover member. The cover member is mounted to the housing at spaced points whereby heat transfer from the housing to the cover member is minimized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1987
    Date of Patent: June 14, 1988
    Assignee: Lightolier Incoporated
    Inventors: Neil Russo, Kingsley Chan
  • Patent number: 4751623
    Abstract: An illumination device according to the present invention generally includes a housing, electrical plug prongs, a connector portion associated with the housing for receiving and electrically contacting a light bulb, and a heat sensitive electrical circuit for conducting electrical current from an electrical outlet or other electrical power source to a light bulb received within through the connector portion of the illumination device. Preferably, the heat sensitive electrical circuit includes a bimetallic strip or other heat sensitive mechanism that automatically interrupts the flow of electrical current through the connector portion of the night light when the temperature sensed by the bimetallic strip exceeds a predetermined temperature level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1986
    Date of Patent: June 14, 1988
    Assignee: Novo Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald R. Gaines, William T. Piett
  • Patent number: 4748544
    Abstract: A torch is disclosed which comprises a casing for receiving a cell and a head which screws onto the casing. The head contains a light bulb, a mounting for the bulb and a reflector. The cell is gripped while it is in the casing to prevent it moving freely along the casing. It can, however, move when the torch is tapped on one or other end or is knocked on a surface with sufficient force to overcome the restraint which is applied to the cell. The cell can also be caused to move by `flicking` the torch. The cell can be gripped by a leaf spring which extends along the casing between the cell and the inner face of the casing, the leaf spring being slightly deformed as the cell is pushed into the casing and thus exerting a lateral thrust on the cell. Alternatively, there can be a wedge which when pushed into the casing urges the cell laterally. In another form the casing itself can be closed onto the cell when the head of the torch is screwed onto the casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1986
    Date of Patent: May 31, 1988
    Inventor: Rex D. I. Ince
  • Patent number: 4715787
    Abstract: Coaxial, two-cylindered air compressor, more specifically an air compressor capable of continuous air exhausting and air feeding, has a cylinder provided at either end of a main frame; to the underside of the main frame is extended a link so that serves to displace pistons in both cylinders, that by the provision of a crank pin both are fitted by articulation to the shaft side of a crank case, so as to facilitate engagement of the motor on top of the main frame with reduction gears on the upper side of the shaft lever by means of transmission gears on the shaft center, thereby setting the crank case to rotation, so that both of the cylinders may exhaust and suck air in a continuous manner, thereby reducing airfeeding, and airsucking time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1986
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1987
    Assignee: Utility Electronics Industries Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Michael Hung
  • Patent number: 4701146
    Abstract: A rattle for an infant is provided wherein the noise making device within the rattle also is a light activation device to momentarily light, in sequence, a plurality of lights mounted on the rattle. The noise-making device is made of magnetic material and is moved back and forth in a tube within the rattle so as to activate reed switches adjacent to the tube thereby sequentially illuminating the lights. The device is powered by batteries mounted in a handle on the rattle. In one form of the invention, the toy is elongated in shape and the magnetic member moves along a straight tubular path. In another embodiment, the magnetic member moves along an annular path and the toy is spherical.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 1986
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1987
    Assignee: Neptune Corporation
    Inventor: Paula S. Swenson
  • Patent number: 4690242
    Abstract: A sound actuated detector comprising a microphone, an elastic cylinder having a flexible bottom adapted to fit tightly around the microphone with the sensing surface of the microphone fitting tightly against the flexible bottom, a mounting base connected to the surface of the cylinder having the flexible bottom, an elastic isolating medium arranged between the base and the surrounding surface to which the detector is attached, and a weight connected to the microphone having a mass such as to eliminate movement of the microphone in response to frequencies above a selected frequency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1986
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1987
    Inventor: David S. Mark
  • Patent number: 4683521
    Abstract: An under hood and luggage compartment lamp assembly which is adapted to be positioned on a hood or luggage compartment of a vehicle. The lamp assembly comprises a plastic body which has, at one end, a first set of spaced terminals the outer ends of which extend parallel for connection to a plug of a wiring harness and at the other end of a second set of spaced terminals, the outer ends of which are shaped for receiving a wedge based lamp. The inner end of the other of the first set of terminals is bent and resiliently engages the spherical contact of a mercury switch and the inner end of one of the second set of terminals is bent and engages the button contact of the mercury switch. The inner end of the first set of terminals directly engages the inner end of the other of the second set of terminals. The body is provided with projections and recesses for locating the terminals such that they can be dropped in place during assembly. A cover closes the body and mechanically locked to the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1986
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1987
    Assignee: Beta Manufacturing Corp.
    Inventors: Nicholas A. Poleschuk, LeRoy A. Poleschuk
  • Patent number: 4680681
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an integral book cover and reading light and is directed to a simple, inexpensive, compact, and portable device for reading which will not disturb others and at the same time provides privacy, if required, as to the title of the book being read.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1986
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1987
    Assignee: Photo Audio Consumer Electronics Marketing Corporation
    Inventors: Carl Fisherman, Eric Beare
  • Patent number: 4631675
    Abstract: An illumination sensing and light level control system for an area of interest includes a light collector to collect and focus light from a relatively large portion of the area of interest, a light-sensitive array including a matrix of light-intensity sensitive elements for receiving light collected and focused by the collector, a multiplexer and signal conditioner for processing and digitizing the light intensity values, a microprocessor for processing the digitized data and controlling the operation and control functions of the system, and a controller for controlling the light level of one or more lamps or sets of lamps associated with the area of interest. A calibration device is used to generate the desired matrix values for comparison.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1984
    Date of Patent: December 23, 1986
    Assignee: Honeywell Inc.
    Inventors: William F. M. Jacobsen, Zoltan Zansky
  • Patent number: 4588387
    Abstract: A rattle for an infant is provided wherein the noise making device within the rattle also is a light activation device to momentarily light, in sequence, a plurality of lights mounted on the rattle. The noise-making device is made of magnetic material and is moved back and forth in a tube within the rattle so as to activate reed switches adjacent to the tube thereby sequentially illuminating the lights. The device is powered by batteries mounted in a handle on the rattle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1984
    Date of Patent: May 13, 1986
    Assignee: Neptune Corporation
    Inventor: Paula S. Swenson
  • Patent number: 4571665
    Abstract: In an apparatus for treating dental materials with radiation of a selected spectral range, a receptacle accommodating the material to be treated is surrounded by one or a plurality of fluorescent tubes. The maximum emission of the fluorescent tubes is about 460 nm. The receptacle which accommodates the dental material during the irradiation process is preferably hermetically sealed and is made of a material that is transparent to the radiation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1983
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1986
    Assignee: ESPE Fabrik pharmazeutischer Praeparate GmbH
    Inventors: Wolf-Dietrich Herold, Karl L. Grafwallner, Michael Keller
  • Patent number: 4564887
    Abstract: A lighted tray is provided having a flat tray area, with a head end which mounts an illumination system. A laterally extended trough running along the crest of the head end defines a holding area for a ballpoint pen or the like, and a lever extending into the tray or pen-holding trough area is actuated by the removal of the pen to turn on the light to illuminate a notepad in the note tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1983
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1986
    Inventor: Mike Kier
  • Patent number: 4544993
    Abstract: A floor illuminating bedside light unit consisting of a generally horizontal foot mat member, switch means operatively associated with the underside of the foot mat for actuation in response to foot pressure on the mat member, and floor illuminating light members connected to the switch means for "on/off" operation in response to actuation of the switch means. The unit is positioned next to the bed in a position in which the bed occupant will step on the foot mat member when entering and leaving the bed. As a result, the unit is operable to illuminate the floor of a darkened bedroom when the bed occupant steps on the mat when leaving the bed and will continue said illumination until the occupant steps on the mat when returning to the bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 1985
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1985
    Inventor: Johnie C. Kirk
  • Patent number: 4538218
    Abstract: A lighting control system is provided which utilizes a light responsive sensor means and a control system to respond to the skylight illumination while rejecting direct sunlight as a control parameter. The skylight illumination level is used to control lighting power controllers that can dim interior lighting equipment in a defined pattern to maintain a uniform light level at a work surface and to conserve electrical energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1983
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1985
    Assignee: Honeywell Ltd.
    Inventor: Francis M. Watson
  • Patent number: 4533985
    Abstract: A device for illuminating a keyhole comprising a housing having a top panel, an energy source and a light disposed in the housing, a conductor for providing a circuit between the energy source and the light, a switch interconnected with the conductor, and an illumination platform pivotally connected to the top panel of the housing and being adapted to swing outwardly of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1984
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1985
    Inventor: Joseph J. Jasinski
  • Patent number: 4524534
    Abstract: An illuminated gunsight adapted to be fixedly engageable with a firearm having existing sighting means, said gunsight comprising illumination means which are moveable relative to said existing sighting means with the illumination means being electrically actuated by movement thereof into proper aiming position and relationship with said existing sighting means. Said illumination means is deactivated by movement thereof from said proper aiming position without removal of the illuminated gunsight from the firearm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1982
    Date of Patent: June 25, 1985
    Assignee: Univention Incorporated
    Inventors: Gordon E. Kaye, Joseph A. Agnello, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4517632
    Abstract: An articulated operating theatre lamp has a handle (19, 20) by means of which it can be moved about several axes. The constructional elements which are movable relative to one another (11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16) are normally secured relative to one another by means of mechanically applied but electrically releasable brakes (18) arranged in the vicinity of their hinged connections (17). Electrical switch means 21 are provided on the handle (19, 20), which actuate the electrical release mechanism (22) for the brakes (18) on being contacted by an operator and thus temporarily release the brakes during handling of the lamp (FIG. 1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1983
    Date of Patent: May 14, 1985
    Assignee: Delma- elektro- und medizinische Apparatebau Gesellschaft mbH
    Inventor: Eberhard Roos
  • Patent number: 4513357
    Abstract: A headlamp unit having a high intensity discharge lamp disposed at about the focus of a parabolic reflector and an incandescent lamp disposed at about the focus of a parabolic reflector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1984
    Date of Patent: April 23, 1985
    Assignee: Tokyo Shibaura Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Nieda, Kiyokazu Honda
  • Patent number: 4510556
    Abstract: An electronic lighting device for simulating a flame, particularly a candle flame. In the preferred embodiment a set of three vertically spaced lamps are enclosed in a translucent bulb and are controlled by a signal generator circuit which independently turns three lamps on and off in a manner which simulates both the illumination distribution and the gas turbulence in a natural flame. The circuit includes a multistage static shift register which is used in a feedback mode to produce three mutually delayed pseudo-random pulse trains. One pulse train is used directly to control the uppermost lamp. The other pulse trains are combined with assymetric long-duty-cycle and short-duty-cycle clock signals. The resulting combined signals are used to drive the lower and middle lamps, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1983
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1985
    Inventor: David C. Johnson
  • Patent number: 4500774
    Abstract: The car cigar lighter of the present invention has such construction that it can easily be mounted on the panel nearby the driver's seat of a car and is superior in the operating ease and safety. Namely, it is characterized in that a holder and a positioning projection are formed on a socket by processing and on the other hand, at the center of a plug housed into said socket, a circular groove is formed and at the skirt portion of said plug, a ringed projection is formed respectively to enable controlling the sinking action of the knob by engaging the component members mentioned above with each other and also, with a base holder fixed into the cavity of the knob, a push nut secured to the base shaft of shaft body is press-fitted into the base holder to stick the knob easily to the shaft body. Further at the opening edge of a flange, a heat insulating resin ring is fitted to cover the edge, whereby any person who uses the cigar lighter can be prevented from getting burned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 1984
    Date of Patent: February 19, 1985
    Assignee: Niles Parts Company, Limited
    Inventor: Kazumi Honjo
  • Patent number: 4486820
    Abstract: A lighting equipment adapted for outdoor location, the equipment being supported on a structure on which a solar cell is placed to charge up a battery for lighting a lamp, wherein the battery and the lamp are provided in the structure, the lamp being lit from the sunset up to the expiry of a predetermined period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1981
    Date of Patent: December 4, 1984
    Assignee: Kyoto Ceramic Company Limited
    Inventors: Yasushi Baba, Hirofumi Tezuka, Kohzo Kitagawa
  • Patent number: 4481561
    Abstract: A flashlight for bore sighting a long barreled shotgun or rifle including a cartridge case with an ejector rim and a primer opening in the base, and a sidewall defining an open front end; a battery and a light bulb within the case; a switch pin slidable in the primer opening to complete the circuit for illuminating the bulb, a spring normally urging the switch pin outwardly and a metallic bulb holder adjacent the front of the case; in a shotshell case, the bulb holder having a frame shank extending along the battery and to the base thereof, the shank having an apertured flange at the base of the battery, spaced from the battery by an insulator and the hole in the flange aligned with the switch pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1983
    Date of Patent: November 6, 1984
    Assignee: Site-Lite, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles T. Lanning
  • Patent number: 4473871
    Abstract: A lighting arrangement is proposed which serves, in particular, to illuminate the interior of a motor vehicle. A lighting arrangement which serves, in particular, to illuminate the interior of a motor vehicle. The arrangement comprises a device in the form of a dimmer which includes a power transistor for establishing the connection between the interior lighting connected to the positive pole of a battery and ground when the door light switch is open. A control transistor which is set via a resistor arrangement activates the power transistor. The control transistor is influenced by a charging electrolyte capacitor so that the power transistor becomes highly resistant. Charging of the electrolyte capacitor therefore causes the interior lighting to be slowly extinguished.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1982
    Date of Patent: September 25, 1984
    Inventor: Franz Fuchshuber
  • Patent number: 4467402
    Abstract: A door lock illuminating system disposed in a handle of a door, and, in particular, a door of a motor vehicle. The illuminating system being switchable by circuit elements connected to the handle, the handle is constructed as a unilaterally pivotable pull handle and a light emitting arrangement is disposed in such a fashion so as to be exposed only when the pull handle is pulled to an operative position. Electrical contacts are disposed in such a manner that with the pull handle being pulled to the operative position the electrical circuit of the illuminating system is completed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1981
    Date of Patent: August 21, 1984
    Assignee: Daimler-Benz AG
    Inventors: Karlheinz Bauer, Andreas Langenbeck, Peter Pfeiffer, Johann Tomforde
  • Patent number: 4460943
    Abstract: A light projector suitable for performance lighting and provided with a means capable of adjusting beam azimuth and elevation from a remote location is provided with an input device locating the operator's finger, hand, or a stylus in two dimensions by non-mechanical means. The azimuth and elevation control means is capable of operation in either an incremental or rate of displacement mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1982
    Date of Patent: July 17, 1984
    Inventor: Michael Callahan
  • Patent number: 4460944
    Abstract: A light unit assembly adapted to illuminate liquid below a liquid surface (for example of a pool or spa) includes(a) a lamp unit including a metallic housing adapted to be cooled by heat transfer to the liquid, and lamp circuitry,(b) a thermostat coupled to the lamp circuitry to control electrical energization of the lamp, and(c) a heat conductive metallic strip associated with said housing and thermostat to become increasingly heated for changing the conductive state of the lamp in response to diminished cooling of the housing by said liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1983
    Date of Patent: July 17, 1984
    Assignee: Purex Pool Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Manochehr Gordbegli, Joe Mendoza
  • Patent number: 4455595
    Abstract: Add-on device for lead-type ballast comprises additional inductor and series-connected controlled AC switching means which are connected in parallel circuit with the capacitor portion of the lead-type ballast such as is used to operate an HID sodium lamp. The add-on device has a sensing and control circuit which operates to sense a lamp operating parameter in order to control the actuation of the AC switching means which in turn controls in predetermined fashion the operation of the ballasted lamp. The inductor and AC switch and sensing and control means of the add-on device are all packaged within a can-shaped member which has dimensions similar to those of the conventional capacitor can for the lead-type ballast. All the elements of the add-on device are potted within the capacitor can with terminal means extending from an end portion thereof for ready connection along with an exposed potentiometer portion to enable the control to be adjusted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1982
    Date of Patent: June 19, 1984
    Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph C. Engel, Richard E. Hanson, Kenneth W. Simms, Robert J. Spreadbury
  • Patent number: 4451871
    Abstract: A relatively light weight, low cost compact safety light which may be worn or carried by athletes such as joggers, runners, cyclists, etc. is provided. The safety light is comprised of a light source coupleable to a battery power supply by a position sensitive switch which is sensitive to movement of the athlete and provides intermittent bursts of light which are highly visible to oncoming cars. In one embodiment, the light source is comprised of a light emitting diode coupled to one or more pen light batteries by a position sensitive switch such as a mercury switch. One or more lense members are provided to increase the visibility of the light generated by the light source. A first reflective means located within the safety light housing is utilized to reflect the light generated by the light source through the lense member while a second reflective means located on the outside of the housing provides additional reflectivity for the light generated by oncoming cars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 29, 1984
    Assignee: Jog-O-Lite, Inc.
    Inventors: J. Darrell Kirkley, Joe C. Weaver
  • Patent number: 4450351
    Abstract: A motion detection system is disclosed which utilizes a lens or other imaging device to be responsive to motion in a particular field of view in a room, for example, and pass illumination to a photocell. The photocell or a screen in front thereof establishes image distortion so that there is a nonuniform electrical output from the photocell upon motion of objects in the given field of view. The nonuniform electrical output establishes pulses which are passed to a timer and continually resets the timer so long as there is motion detected. Upon discontinuance of any motion in the field of view, no further pulses are passed to reset the timer, and the timer times out to de-energize an electrical load. This may be an electrical lamp illuminating the field of view, or it may be an electric soldering iron or typewriter which is de-energized when the person has left the room.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1983
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: Bio/Optical Sensor Partners, Ltd.
    Inventor: Jacob Fraden
  • Patent number: 4450512
    Abstract: An arrangement for mounting a thermal protective device including a case in which there is mounted a temperature sensitive element, in a lighting fixture adapted for recessed mounting in a ceiling support surface, includes a receptacle dimensioned for receipt of the thermal protective device. The receptacle is mounted on the interior surface of the side wall of the recess mounted housing of the lighting fixture. The housing side wall defines an aperture predeterminedly located therein with which the temperature sensitive element is aligned for sensing the temperature of the area adjacent the exterior surface of the housing side wall. The receptacle includes fingers for biasing the thermal protective device into engagement with the interior surface of the housing side wall. The receptacle is constructed of reflective material to reflect heat emanating from the lamp of the lighting fixture away from the thermal protective device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 22, 1984
    Assignee: McGraw-Edison Company
    Inventor: Paul J. Kristofek
  • Patent number: 4449167
    Abstract: The object of the present invention is an auxiliary safety rear light assembly for vehicles which can be adhesively mounted at any position on the rear window of a car or truck.Another object of the present invention is an auxiliary safety rear light assembly which can be adjusted along a horizontal axis so as to be mountable parallel to the road regardless of the angle which the vehicle rear window makes to the road.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1983
    Date of Patent: May 15, 1984
    Inventor: Robert Cohen
  • Patent number: 4446507
    Abstract: The present invention provides a lighting system for use on a vehicle with the system including two sets of low beam driving lights and switching circuits for switching from one set to the other in the event of one of the sets failing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1983
    Date of Patent: May 1, 1984
    Inventor: Ronald M. Daniels
  • Patent number: 4438344
    Abstract: A disc designed to be placed between a light bulb and the bottom of a mating Edison socket into which the light bulb is screwed is capable of attenuating power by rectifying alternating current to the bulb in one mode and in another mode is capable of passing full current to the bulb. Thus, by lightly screwing the bulb into the socket, the bulb glows dimly, its power being supplied through the rectifier. When the bulb is more tightly screwed into the socket, the disc is compressed and the device applies full power to the bulb. The switching is accomplished by offsetting the rectifier and allowing pressure exerted between the light bulb's center contact and the bottom of the socket to operate a switching mechanism, preferably located at the center of the disc. The switching mechanism shunts the rectifier in the full-power mode of operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1982
    Date of Patent: March 20, 1984
    Assignee: Miracle Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald Albert, Anthony M. Tremaglio
  • Patent number: 4435095
    Abstract: A thermometer suitable for a hot tub, spa, pool, and the like, and including a temperature sensor and indicator and a light source so the indicator can be read at night or in dim light. A tubular configuration which hangs upside down in the water when measuring temperature, and which is manually turned upright for reading, with an orientation sensitive power supply for energizing the bulb when in the upright position. A battery operated power supply which is permanently off or open circuited during shipping and storage and which is activated by the user by simply ramming the cap down on the unit to electrically bridge an open circuit in the lamp supply circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1982
    Date of Patent: March 6, 1984
    Assignee: James B. Jones
    Inventors: James B. Jones, Ron B. Soyka
  • Patent number: 4435743
    Abstract: A lighted exit sign comprising a light transmitting plate having a viewing side and upper and lower edges onto which light can be projected for transmission into the plate for viewing from the viewing side. Upper and lower printed circuit boards are supported close to the upper and lower edges of the plate. A plurality of small incandescent light bulbs are secured to the upper and lower circuit boards for producing light when energized for projection onto the upper and lower edges for transmission into the plate for viewing from the viewing side. A white, light reflecting layer is formed on the side of the plate opposite the viewing side. The letters EXIT are formed on the viewing side in two layers. The first layer is white in color and is secured directly to the viewing side. The second layer is preferably red in color and is secured to the first layer. A transformer is employed for converting an A C voltage to a level below the rated voltage of the bulbs and to a level above the rated voltage of the bulbs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1981
    Date of Patent: March 6, 1984
    Inventor: George W. Plumly
  • Patent number: 4433362
    Abstract: A remote controllable illumination apparatus comprising an article with a predetermined shape; a luminous body incorporated in part of the article; an acoustic-electric transducer for producing an output upon receiving the acoustic wave generated from sound generating source; an amplifier circuit for amplifying the output of the acoustic-electric transducer; and a control circuit for controlling the luminous body as to maintain the same lighted for a predetermined period of time in accordance with the output from the amplifier circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1981
    Date of Patent: February 21, 1984
    Inventor: Itsuki Ban
  • Patent number: 4433328
    Abstract: A moving object sensing processor responsive to slowly varying motions of a human being or other moving object in a zone of interest employs high frequency pulse modulated non-visible radiation generated by a radiation generating source, such as an LED, and detected by a detector sensitive to radiation of a preselected wavelength which generates electrical signals representative of the reflected radiation received from the zone of interest. The detectorsignals are processed to normalize the base level and remove variations due to background level changes, and slowly varying changes in the signals are detected by a bi-polar threshold detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1980
    Date of Patent: February 21, 1984
    Inventors: Marc E. Saphir, Michael A. Reed
  • Patent number: 4432041
    Abstract: A self-contained, portable lighting apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus functions as an escape light in conjunction with smoke detector alarms in that it is activated by detecting the sound of such alarms. A lighting unit includes circuitry for detecting the alarm of a smoke detector, integrating the detected signal over a predetermined time to minimize the incidence of false alarm, circuitry for delaying the shutting off of the light after the alarm signal has ceased and circuitry for detecting a low voltage condition of the batteries and for providing an intermittent sound that is indicative of a low voltage battery condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1982
    Date of Patent: February 14, 1984
    Assignee: Firex Corporation
    Inventors: Richard E. Pfisterer, Richard M. Schultz
  • Patent number: 4425601
    Abstract: An improved apparatus for illuminating a plurality of stairs when in use involves a transformer to provide a reduced A. C. voltage; at least one light in proximity to the stairs to illuminate the stairs when at least a portion of the reduced A. C. voltage is supplied to the light and an electrical circuit including the light is formed; a rectifier to convert the reduced A. C. voltage to a D. C. voltage; a plurality of pressure sensitive switches associated with the rectifier and the treads of the stairs; physical pressure on the tread or treads acting to close at least one of the switches; and a relay in association with the pressure sensitive switches and light, and adapted to form the electrical circuit including the light in response to the closing of at least one of the pressure sensitive switches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1981
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1984
    Inventor: Robert Donahue
  • Patent number: 4423473
    Abstract: A relatively light weight, low cost compact safety light which may be worn or carried by athletes such as joggers, runners, cyclists, etc. is provided. The safety light is comprised of a light source coupleable to a battery power supply by a position sensitive switch which is sensitive to movement of the athlete and provides intermittent bursts of light which are highly visible to oncoming cars. In one embodiment, the light source is comprised of a light emitting diode coupled to one or more pen light batteries by a position sensitive switch such as a mercury switch. One or more lense members are provided to increase the visibility of the light generated by the light source. A first reflective means located within the safety light housing is utilized to reflect the light generated by the light source through the lense member while a second reflective means located on the outside of the housing provides additional reflectivity for the light generated by oncoming cars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1982
    Date of Patent: December 27, 1983
    Assignee: Jog-O-Lite, Inc.
    Inventor: J. Darrell Kirkley
  • Patent number: 4423472
    Abstract: A portable navigation light system for barges in which the legally required three lights are provided by a set of three, self-contained units. Each unit contains its own power supply, light activating mechanism, light source so configured as to show over the required arc of the horizon with the required range of visibility, and means for affixing the unit to the barge. Each unit incorporates an integral carrying handle and is configured so that the three units nest one inside of the other with their respective handles coinciding as one, thereby permitting the carrying of the nested units as one.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1982
    Date of Patent: December 27, 1983
    Inventor: Raymond H. Duthu
  • Patent number: 4422069
    Abstract: At least one, and preferably two, flashable lights are positioned near an exit door and are actuated in case of an emergency such as a fire or interruption of power. The lights are preferably located near the floor on opposite sides of the exit and are energized by emergency power supply batteries upon interruption of the main power supply. The main power supplied to the system may be interrupted by a fire detector device, and the system includes means for commencing the operation of the flashable lights upon any such interruption. Th flashable lights are preferably discharge tube photoflash lamps which are capable of emitting high intensity flashes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1981
    Date of Patent: December 20, 1983
    Inventors: Karl L. Edstrom, Per A. W. Hogstrom