Electrical Patents (Class 368/250)
  • Publication number: 20090262607
    Abstract: An information communication terminal with a report function for use in the alarm includes the report function for awakening. However, since an operation required to stop the report function is performed in an operation unit, there is a risk that the user who is not in wakefulness makes an operation error. Using the information communication terminal including a sensor capable of detecting that the information communication terminal is shaken, a notification operation at a set time in the report function is controlled. Also, a control unit of the information communication terminal performs various kinds of control for the notification operation by partitioning vibration information detected by this sensor according to various patterns.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2007
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Inventor: Yukiko Yoshino
  • Publication number: 20090231964
    Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of the invention provide in an exemplary aspect thereof a method that includes storing data descriptive of a plurality of alarm sounds received from at least one source of alarm sounds, the stored data forming a set of alarm sounds; selecting an alarm sound from the set of alarm sounds; and playing the selected alarm sound at a predetermined time, where the selected alarm sound is one corresponding to data that was most recently stored. In another exemplary aspect of the invention a method includes, in response to a user input, enabling an alarm function and recording a current time of day; monitoring the time of day and activating the alarm function when the time of day is equal to a predetermined time of day; and making an alarm sound audible, where the alarm sound is selected from a set of alarm sounds based at least in part on a difference in time between the recorded time of day and the predetermined time of day.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2009
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Inventors: Christian Kraft, Peter D. Nielsen, Kalle Ojala
  • Publication number: 20090190446
    Abstract: An alarm clock includes a processor and a plurality of stored audio message files in data communication with the processor. The processor is in data communication with an audio source, a speaker, a display, a user input, and a clock. The alarm clock includes a case containing these components. The processor includes programming to actuate the display to visually present time data from the clock, actuate the speaker to audibly present a first audio message file at a first alarm time, actuate the speaker to audibly present audio from the audio source after the speaker audibly presents the first audio message file, and actuate the speaker to audibly present a second audio message file at a second alarm time, actuate the speaker to audibly present audio from the audio source after the speaker audibly presents the second audio message file.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2008
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Inventor: James Prescott Stuart
  • Patent number: 7502281
    Abstract: A timer includes a timing device that generates first and second time counts responsive to user input. A display is provided that displays the first time count in one of a first set of time units and a second set of time units. A user actuatable device is operatively connected to said display and causes the display to clear the first time count and display the second time count.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2009
    Inventor: Richard Rund
  • Publication number: 20080198703
    Abstract: A children's time signal device whereby a parent can set a predetermined time of day or period of time at which a decorative feature of the face plate would illuminate, such as a clown's nose on a clown face plate, to be used to teach and inform a child or toddler when to start or stop an activity, when to get up from a nap, as a meal-time signal informing the toddler when meal time occurs, or as a discipline timer, informing the toddler when the time-out discipline ends.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2007
    Publication date: August 21, 2008
    Inventor: Marlys Dickmeyer
  • Patent number: 7414922
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a water-resistant portable apparatus including a case in which there is mounted an electroacoustic transducer separated from an inlet cavity in a water-resistant manner by a deformable membrane. This inlet cavity is arranged in said case in direct communication with the exterior. The electroacoustic transducer and the inlet cavity are arranged collaterally such that at least one part of said transducer, respectively of the cavity, of a determined thickness is arranged in the same slice of the case and in that an acoustic channel connects the transducer to the membrane to transmit acoustic vibrations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Assignee: Asulab S.A.
    Inventors: Yvan Ferri, Paul Dinnissen, Jean-Jacques Born
  • Publication number: 20080170476
    Abstract: A light emitting device to awaken an animal and stimulate the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus in the brain to suppress melatonin secretion. The device can be programmed for an initiation time, color of light, brightness, frequency of pulsating light, and level of gradual intensity. It has the advantage of being silent and does not to disturb other people sleeping in the same room.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2007
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventor: Katherine Hurst
  • Patent number: 7376053
    Abstract: The present invention proposes improving the yield of a microgenerator (1) used for operating a timepiece. Such a microgenerator operates on the basis of the phenomenon of electromagnetic induction, it is thus desirable to limit as far as possible the presence of magnetic masses in proximity to said generator. Research undertaken has shown that the electrically conductive paths (9), and even their single protective layer, arranged in proximity to the microgenerator brake it, when they are formed of a magnetic material, and in particular a ferromagnetic material. Thus, the selection of exclusively non-magnetic materials is proposed for manufacturing the conductive paths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Assignee: Eta SA Fabriques d'Ebauches
    Inventors: Frédéric Leuba, Denis Burdet
  • Patent number: 7339857
    Abstract: The vibrating device (1) is mounted in a portable object, such as a wristwatch, to act in particular as a silent alarm. The device includes a moving mass (3a, 3b, 6, 15) formed in part by a magnetic structure connected to a fixed structure (5) via a spring element (4), and a coil (2) connected to the fixed structure without any mechanical contact with the moving mass. The coil is electro-magnetically coupled to the moving mass to enable it to oscillate in at least one direction of oscillation (X) when it is being powered by alternating electrical signals at a determined frequency. A fixed part of the vibrating device includes a part (4d) forming part of the spring element, which is mounted on the fixed structure. This part includes a longitudinal aperture (14) in the direction of oscillation combined with a surface of the fixed structure to define guide means in which a projecting element (16) of the moving mass is placed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Assignee: Eta Sa Manufacture Horlogere Suisse
    Inventor: Gérald Maurice Matthey
  • Patent number: 7317803
    Abstract: The medicine administration method employs a reminder device with a digital recorder, a visual display device, an audio speaker, a microphone, a resonator and light, a power supply, a computer processor unit, and appropriate controls encased in a housing. A code signal is entered into the device to open a recording function. An oral reminder message is recorded. A time schedule for playing the reminder message is inserted into the processor. When it is time to play the reminder message, a light is illuminated and a resonator is energized. A play button is pressed and the reminder message is played. Messages that are to be played in the future can be played by entering the time the future message is to be played and then playing the reminder message. After the message is played the current month, date and time is entered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Inventors: Indira C. Prabhakar, Bangalore Prabhakar
  • Patent number: 7266049
    Abstract: An alarm clock is provide capable of alternately actuating a plurality of visual stimulative and auditor stimulative appliances in a programmable manner such that a variation and randomization of the type of stimulation will be used to prompt the waking of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2007
    Inventors: Edward Howard Suber, III, Carey L. Layton
  • Patent number: 7177235
    Abstract: A multi mode alert timer having a timer display, switches for start stop and reset functions and audible, visible, and tactile alert signal selection and a housing where a user may select a timer alert signal including the individual alert signals or any combination thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: F.O.B. Instruments, Ltd
    Inventor: Richard Rund
  • Patent number: 7065005
    Abstract: Timepiece such as a wristwatch fitted with an alarm mechanism including a member able to produce an alarm signal at a predetermined moment, as well as a control device for providing visual information indicating whether the alarm mechanism is switched on or off, and simultaneously locking or releasing the alarm generator member, characterised in that the control device is activated by means of a push-button.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2006
    Assignee: Frédéric Piguet S.A.
    Inventor: Marco Rochat
  • Patent number: 7050360
    Abstract: To provide a wrist watch with a vibration function which can more enhance the vibration effect so that even when the user is, for example, sleeping deeply, the vibration function can effectively act on the user. The wrist watch with a vibration function comprises a watch case, a box part formed at an under surface of the watch case, at least one vibration motor received in the box such that a part of the vibration motor projects from the box part, a cover formed of a flexible material and adapted to cover for positioning the vibration motor, a bottom case serving as a lower surface and having a window formed in a part of the bottom case, and a vibration source received in the case and projecting from the window in a loosely fitted state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: Kabushiki-Kaisya Tokyo Shinya
    Inventor: Masaru Saito
  • Patent number: 7046123
    Abstract: The present invention is a parking time indicator key fob which includes a housing and a timing device contained within the housing for counting down an amount of time. A display is connected to the housing for indicating an amount of time remaining on the timing device. The present invention further includes a means for setting the timing device to the amount of time and an alarm mechanism is connected to the timing device. Upon setting the setting means to the amount of time, the timing device is activated causing the timing device to count down from the amount of time value to a zero value. Upon reaching a predetermined value, the timing device causes the alarm mechanism to be activated thereby alerting a user that the amount of time is approaching the zero value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Inventor: Rob Goldberg
  • Patent number: 7027358
    Abstract: A system for pressure ulcer prophylaxis and treatment includes an annunciator which is attached to the outer face of the door or to the doorway of a patient's room and a bedside patient position sequence indicator. The annunciator includes a timing device with settable cycle duration and provides both visual and audible signals to indicate that a prescribed patient turning regimen cycle now requires repositioning of the patient. The annunciator generates a first signal when the cycle duration enters an expiry window and generates a different, intensified signal after the cycle has ended without being reset by a caregiver. The patient position sequence indicator includes a visual display which advises a caregiver of the position in which the patient was last placed and the next sequential position to which the patient is to be moved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Assignee: Advanced Prevention Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Roy A. Esposito, Steven Antokal
  • Patent number: 6934220
    Abstract: A portable programmable medical alert device can be used to program multiple events, each of which will be signaled by an audible and a visual alarm. The user can program and reprogram medication schedules using only the portable alert device. The device, including a battery powered microcontroller, can be programmed by manipulation of two input switches, a push button switch and a two position to prevent inadvertent programming. Each programmed event will be signaled at the same time of day at which the alarm was originally set. When the alarms are transmitted to a user, the alert or reminder can be acknowledged by pressing the push button switch. The user can also activate the device prior to the next scheduled alarm without affecting subsequent alarms or alerts. Outputs can be audible and/or visible outputs, including an LCD. Inputs can be alternatively programmed by computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Assignee: ALR Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Stanley L. Cruitt, Sidney Chan, Jaroslav V. Tichy
  • Patent number: 6928031
    Abstract: A programmable alarm clock system, method of operation and program product therefor with sleep analysis to identify and wake a person during non-REM sleep patterns, resulting in less subsequent drowsiness and better day-to-day functioning. The programmable alarm clock system includes at least one brain activity sensor attachable to a head of a sleeper. Brain activity signals from the sensor(s) are sent to a receiver at a local computer. The user, before retiring inputs a wake up time and attaches the sensor(s). The local computer sends brain activity signals to a remotely connected sleep analyzing server which analyzes the brain activity and identifies REM sleep periods and non-REM sleep periods. The labeled brain activity periods are returned to the local computer which waits for the wake up time. Then, the local computer sets an alarm time by adjusting the wake up time to coincide with a non-REM sleep period, if necessary and if possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corp.
    Inventors: Dimitri Kanevsky, Wlodek Zadrozny
  • Patent number: 6888779
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for a waking system that wakes an individual gradually over a period of time in order to promote the wellness of that individual. The user sets the system controller with a desired final wakeup time, which is the time that the user must be awake. When the actual time reaches a stimulus introduction time (i.e. some time prior to the desired final wakeup time), the system controller causes the introduction of stimulus. The system further comprises a detection system that measures a parameter correlated to the individual's sleep level (preferably motion). This measured parameter is then used in a feedback loop to control the level of stimulus experienced by the individual. In this manner, the user is woken gradually over a period of time between the stimulus introduction time and the desired final wakeup time, without introducing any sudden shocks to the user's physiological systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignee: Pulsar Informatics, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Joseph Mollicone, Matthew Vit van Wollen
  • Patent number: 6657923
    Abstract: An alarm clock is shaped as a miniature slot machine. The alarm is set by pulling the handle forward, just as one activates a real slot machine. When the alarm goes off, the wheels spin and stop one at a time on a jackpot combination, accompanied by the sound one would hear from a real slot machine. A light on top of the machine flashes, accompanied by sound that mimics the sounds of a jackpot on a real slot machine. The snooze alarm is set by pushing the handle to the rear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Inventor: Benjamin L. Laughlin
  • Patent number: 6633796
    Abstract: A medication timing device including a base carrying a circuit with a timing device, a switch for activating the timing device, a signal device activated by the timing device, and a battery coupled to the timing device and the signal device, and a top coupled to the base and covering the circuit. The top is moveable between a normal expanded position and a compressed position in which the switch is tripped. A fastening element fastens the base to a medication container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2003
    Inventors: Dan B. Pool, David F. Kreitzer
  • Patent number: 6587398
    Abstract: A communication device such as pager (100) includes a real-time clock circuit (118). The real-time clock circuit keeps track of both the pager's home time zone information (402) and the pager's current time zone information (404). While the pager user is operating within his home area, the pager's home time zone information (402) and the current or local time zone information (404) will be the same. If the user however travels away from his home system's time zone, the real-time clock circuit adjusts the current time zone information (404) to reflect the time zone the user is currently operating in. The user can set alarms which reference either the home time zone information (402) or the current time zone information (404). This allows for more user flexibility on how the alarm conditions are to operate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignee: Motorola Inc.
    Inventors: Von Alan Mock, Eric Thomas Eaton, David Hayes
  • Patent number: 6577559
    Abstract: The present invention concerns the use of a sound generator circuit (22) including a piezoelectric vibrator (P3) as an acoustic wave receiver. The invention also concerns an electronic converter (20) including a sound generator circuit (22) provided with a piezoelectric vibrator (P3) as well as means supplying a reference voltage, characterized in that it further includes comparison means which compare the reference voltage to the voltage generated by the piezoelectric vibrator (P3) when the latter picks up an acoustic wave, said comparison means generating a pseudo-digital signal when the voltage generated by said vibrator (P3) exceeds said reference voltage. Finally the invention concerns a timepiece provided with a converter circuit (20) as described above, as well as a two-directional communication method via acoustic waves between an emitter unit and a receiver unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Assignee: Eta SA Fabriques d'Ebauches
    Inventors: Emmanuel Fleury, Fabien Blondeau
  • Publication number: 20030095476
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for a waking system that wakes an individual gradually over a period of time in order to promote the wellness of that individual. The user sets the system controller with a desired final wakeup time, which is the time that the user must be awake. When the actual time reaches a stimulus introduction time (i.e. some time prior to the desired final wakeup time), the system controller causes the introduction of stimulus. The system further comprises a detection system that measures a parameter correlated to the individual's sleep level (preferably motion). This measured parameter is then used in a feedback loop to control the level of stimulus experienced by the individual. In this manner, the user is woken gradually over a period of time between the stimulus introduction time and the desired final wakeup time, without introducing any sudden shocks to the user's physiological systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2001
    Publication date: May 22, 2003
    Inventors: Daniel Joseph Mollicone, Matthew Vit van Wollen
  • Publication number: 20030035346
    Abstract: An alarm clock is shaped as a miniature slot machine. The alarm is set by pulling the handle forward, just as one activates a real slot machine. When the alarm goes off, the wheels spin and stop one at a time on a jackpot combination, accompanied by the sound one would hear from a real slot machine. A light on top of the machine flashes, accompanied by sound that mimics the sounds of a jackpot on a real slot machine. The snooze alarm is set by pushing the handle to the rear.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2002
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: Benjamin L. Laughlin
  • Patent number: 6483782
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for automatically playing a recorded message, from a uniquely formatted encrypted CD, correlated to a specific date and a time of day as an option on a CD clock radio or the like. Disclosed are means for distinguishing the unique CD format and thereafter following a prescribed process for decrypting and playing. Otherwise all device functions and options operate in their conventional modes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Inventor: Scott Bowman Steinbach
  • Patent number: 6426702
    Abstract: A device is provided for alerting a driver of an automotive vehicle as to the onset of fatigue, characterized by eyelid droop, head droop and a like condition wherein the eyes of the driver are not directed straight ahead onto the road. The device includes a unit adapted to be affixed to the sun visor of the automotive vehicle so as to be located at the upper periphery of the field of vision of the driver. The unit includes a light element, preferably a red light emitting diode (LED), viewable by the driver in the periphery of the field of vision of the driver. A control circuit controls the LED so as to provide illumination thereof after a predetermined time interval. A driver controlled pushbutton controller connected to the control circuit provides initial energization of the LED while a reset pushbutton provides resetting of the time interval upon depression thereof by the driver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2002
    Inventors: Thomas W. Young, Frazier R. Thompson
  • Patent number: 6330207
    Abstract: Timepiece including a clockwork movement (2) provided with an analogue display (14). The wheel (4) includes a plate (8) with a toothing (6) defined by its external edge and a shaft (10). A device for detecting the angular position of the wheel (4) includes a magnetic or capacitive sensor (20) whose detection element, in particular a flat spiral coil (24), is used for detecting a variation in presence of the material, in particular a non magnetic conductive metal, forming the plate (8). The plate has at least one opening (16) situated in the intermediate region thereof between a central hole (18), and the tooth (6). The opening (16) defines a reference geometric semi-axis of the wheel (4) whose angular position is determined by the detection device provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Assignee: Asulab S.A.
    Inventors: Jean-Jacques Born, Pierre-André Farine, Philippe Passeraub
  • Patent number: 6307814
    Abstract: A device of small dimensions includes a two coaxial wheels (4, 6) respectively including two plates (44, 46) parallel to each other. A sensor (10) including a detection element (14).formed by a magnetic or capacitive element, in particular a flat spiral coil, is provided for detecting the angular position of both of the two wheels. In order to do this, the sensor (10) detects the presence or absence of an active material above the detection element (14). For this purpose, each of plates (44) and (46) has at least one inactive region for the sensor and is formed at least partially of active material for the sensor. The sensor is arranged relative to the wheel the closest to the detection element in such a way that the latter is at least in part above or below said at least one inactive region in at least one determined angular position of said wheel so as to allow the sensor to detect the angular position of the wheel whose plate (44) is furthest from the detection element (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Assignee: Asulab S.A.
    Inventors: Pierre-André Farine, Jean-Jacques Born, Ermanno Bernasconi
  • Patent number: 6299345
    Abstract: Providing a chess player with a pager so that the chess player can leave the chess board and still be notified when it is time for the chess player to make his move. A conventional chess timer has a switch to indicate when an opponent has made a move. The present invention activates a radio frequency transmitter by the switch to send a signal to a pager tuned to receive the signal sent by the transmitter. When the pager receives the radio frequency signal, the receiver generates a vibration and/or turns on a light, and/or less preferably generates a sound whereby a player can be notified at a remote location that an opponent has made his move.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Inventor: Rodney Allen Burnette
  • Patent number: 6219304
    Abstract: A device includes a case (2) in which an acoustic transducer (11) is mounted so as to communicate in a water tight manner with the exterior of the case (2) via acoustic energy. The transducer (11) is mounted in front of a membrane (18) able to be deformed separating it in a water tight manner from an inlet cavity (14, 15) which is arranged in the case (2) of the device and is in communication with the exterior. Between the membrane (18) and the transducer (11) an intermediate chamber (19) is arranged allowing deformation of the membrane by the action of external static pressure and delimited on the side of the transducer by a support element (12a) fixedly mounted in the case and capable of limiting the deformation of the membrane in the event of application of the external pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Assignee: Asulab S.A.
    Inventors: Jean-Pierre Mignot, Paul Dinnissen
  • Patent number: 6147935
    Abstract: A transformerless LED digital display clock circuitry using AC line voltage as a primary source of power is disclosed. The AC line voltage is substantially reduced to around 10 volts or less and then rectified to provide DC power to the quartz analog clock. Also included is a NiCad battery circuitry used as a power backup and to allow for occasional but high current using devices. The LED digital display is made up of four separate "digit" displays each independently controlled by four separate cathode outputs from a microprocessor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Assignee: GTC Properties, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas G. Guyett, Michael H. Reeves, Stephen B. Hobbs
  • Patent number: 6057769
    Abstract: The intelligent alarm system of the present invention provides a reliable, low cost system for alerting a user to the presence of snow outside of a building. The system includes a sensor and an intelligent alarm clock for use inside a building or dwelling. The system can be set by a user to signal an alarm a programmable amount of time earlier or later than the user's normal waking time if an accumulation of snow is detected. The system is capable of processing preprogrammed data, user entered data and data accumulated from the sensor to determine whether a true snow condition exists and to generate an appropriate alarm signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Assignee: Lucent Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Carl R. Stevenson
  • Patent number: 6046965
    Abstract: A coincidence signal is output when coincidence of a timer counter with the set value of a comparison register is detected by a coincidence detecting circuit and the coincidence signal is input to the external CPU as an interruption signal to execute a CPU to start an interruption routine. In the interruption routine, a reverse enable flag is set, a flag indicating permission to reverse an output signal when the value of a key counter is larger than the value of a buzzer counter and a reverse enable flag is set, a flag indicating prohibition of reversing the output signal when the value of the key counter is smaller than that of the buzzer counter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Assignee: NEC Corporation
    Inventor: Kaori Oba
  • Patent number: 6038523
    Abstract: In a compact, highly precise position detecting apparatus which can perform automatic detection of a hand position, which is required to add a function such as automatic time correction to a time-measuring apparatus, an identification pattern (20) in which identification marks are discretely disposed on a surface of a center wheel (17) moving together with a minute hand (12), which serves as an encoder surface, is formed by hard-magnetic thin film, and sampling is performed by a magnetic sensor (21b) at a plurality of sampling points to determine whether identification marks are provided. The detection signal of the magnetic sensor at each sampling point is classified into three data, "1" and "0" indicating whether identification marks are provided or not, and "*" indicating that identification marks are indefinite. A sampling code obtained by data sampled at the plurality of sampling points is compared with reference identification codes to determine the position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: Hidehiro Akahane, Noriaki Shimura
  • Patent number: 6014347
    Abstract: A case (2) in which an acoustic transducer (22) is mounted so as to communicate in a watertight manner with the exterior of the case (2) via acoustic energy.The transducer (22) is attached to a membrane (17) separating it in a watertight manner from an inlet cavity (10, 11) which is arranged in the case (2) and is in direct communication with the exterior. The membrane (17) is resiliently applied by its periphery onto a rest surface (12) arranged around the cavity separating the latter in a watertight manner from a deformation chamber (13) situated on the side of the membrane (17) opposite to the inlet cavity while being in communication with the interior of the case. The bottom (13a) of the deformation chamber (13) forms a support surface for said membrane (17) when external static pressure greater than a predetermined value is applied thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Assignee: Asulab S.A.
    Inventors: Jean-Pierre Mignot, Paul Dinnissen
  • Patent number: 6009048
    Abstract: A novelty electric and digital alarm clock with or without a radio is configured as a gambling slot machine or a "one-armed bandit" and computerized to perform various functions. A lever arm on one side sets the alarm by being moved forward. The alarm clock has a red dome light on top which lights up when the preset awakening time is reached. A first display screen comprising light emitting diodes with or without light pipes, electroluminescent devices, or a liquid crystal display initially shows three different fruits in color, but shows three sevens when the alarm is initiated. One or a plurality of switches on the back of the clock permit the selection of a vocal phrase, a tune, a ringing bell or a radio program which will be activated as the alarm. The payout chute at the front and bottom of the clock displays metal or plastic coins under a transparent cover to simulate a payout chute which lights up or flashes when the alarm is activated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Inventor: Carole H. Raesz
  • Patent number: 6009049
    Abstract: A clock movement includes a middle body frame defining a first and a second partitions, an upper cover secured, at the first partition, to the middle body frame, and a base cover secured, at the second partition, to the middle body frame. Components for the movement are disposed in the first and second partitions enclosed, respectively. This converts a planar type arrangement of the components into a two-floor type arrangement, with the result of a decrease in diameter of the movement constructed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Inventor: Kuo-Chung Huang
  • Patent number: 5991241
    Abstract: A wristwatch with an alarm time-setting function includes a clock case having a hollow accommodating space, a clock mechanism mounted in the accommodating space, and a rotary drive ring mounted rotatably on the front side of the clock case. The wristwatch further includes a timer-setting member accommodated inside the accommodating space and connected to a timer-setting pin of the clock mechanism. A driving member of the rotary drive ring is disposed inside the accommodating space to engage a driven part of the timer-setting member. Thus, rotation of the rotary drive ring results in corresponding rotation of the timer-setting member and the timer-setting pin to set an alarm time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Assignee: Young Town Enterprises Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Mu-Sheng Hsu
  • Patent number: 5920525
    Abstract: An alarm clock is composed of a housing provided with a chamber, a machine core located in the chamber, a loud speaker located in the chamber, an opening and closing device having at least one door, a magnet and an arresting rod, a touch control set connected with a circuit unit disposed in the chamber, a magnetic sensor disposed in the housing such that the magnetic sensor is opposite to the magnet of the opening and closing device. The magnetic sensor has a relay connected with the circuit unit, and an electromagnet disposed in the relay. The alarm clock is further composed of an action member which is provided at one end thereof with a pivot and at other end thereof with a magnet which is capable of moving to be corresponding in location to the magnetic sensor at the time when the action member turns around the center of the pivot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1999
    Inventor: Chu-Rong Kuo
  • Patent number: 5878004
    Abstract: A small electronic equipment with a vibration alarm has, as a drive source, a flat stator type bipolar stepping motor, which has a rotor having high durability, can be assembled easily, requires low power consumption, is started constantly stably, and can be rotated at a high speed. In this electronic equipment with the vibration alarm, a rotor (1) is rotated by a rotary drive system including a drive pulse generating means (112, 113, 114), a drive circuit (110), a flat stator (6), a counter electromotive voltage detection coil (306), and a magnetic pole position detection means (107, 115, 116), so that an eccentric weight (2) fixed to the rotor is rotated, thereby generating vibration. The drive pulse generating means outputs a pulse signal for driving the stepping motor on the basis of an alarm signal output at alarm time. The drive circuit supplies a drive current to a drive coil (305) on the basis of the pulse signal from the drive pulse generating means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1999
    Assignee: Citizen Watch Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Norio Miyauchi, Tatsuo Nitta, Tomomi Murakami
  • Patent number: 5867452
    Abstract: A watch case for a digital or analog watch assembly. The watch case includes a body, a time display element, an electronic speaker unit for generating musical or other acoustical sounds, and an aperture formed in the body which communicates with the speaker. Significantly, the aperture is sized so that the quality sound (e.g., music and voices) emitted therethrough from said speaker unit is clearer and more understandable than has been available heretofore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1999
    Assignee: E. Gluck Corp.
    Inventors: Rafael Braun, Hung Fat Lee
  • Patent number: 5842288
    Abstract: A solid state alarm for a clothes dryer receives a line voltage signal prior to termination of the tumbling cycle to provide a series of pulses with decaying amplitudes driving a piezoelectric-type transducer. A timer terminating the series of pulses communicates with a pulse generating oscillator so as to eliminate partial pulsing at the conclusion of the alarm signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1998
    Assignee: U.S. Controls Corporation
    Inventors: Timothy Laseke, Spencer C. Schantz
  • Patent number: 5764594
    Abstract: A silent alarm clock including a portable receiver unit with a wrist watch-type configuration. The receiver unit includes a vibrator adapted to create a vibrating sensation upon the receipt of a radio signal. To provide power to the receiver unit a rechargeable battery is included with a pair of associated contacts and a charger adapted to allow the recharging thereof. Also included is a base transmitter unit with a recharging base having a pair of contacts for contacting those of the receiver unit in a recharge orientation. A clock unit is situated within the base transmitter unit having associated control circuitry and a speaker. The clock circuitry is adapted to define at least two predetermined times. The base transmitter unit is adapted to transmit an audio signal via the speaker at a predetermined time if the receiver unit is the recharge orientation thereof and further generate a radio signal via free space if the receiver unit is not in the recharge orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Inventors: Paul Berman, Neal Marks, Brad Zieg
  • Patent number: 5737692
    Abstract: A system and method for providing a remote alert from a clock radio to a user at a predetermined time without disturbing others around him. The clock radio is preferably a superheterodyne receiver and includes an alert signal circuit for providing radio frequency alert signals at a predetermined alarm time and a radio frequency transceiver for receiving broadcast radio frequency signals and for transmitting radio frequency signals including the broadcast radio frequency signals and the radio frequency alert signals. A timing circuit in the clock radio includes a coincidence detecting circuit which detects the coincidence between the time of day and the predetermined alarm time, and causes the alert signal circuit to provide an alert signal to the radio frequency transceiver for transmission to a selected wireless remote alert device at the predetermined time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1998
    Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Electronics Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Lang
  • Patent number: 5726626
    Abstract: The invention concerns an acoustic alarm safety device comprising a case (2), a vibrating element (20) associated to a membrane (22) so as to make it vibrate, electrical means for providing a control signal to said vibrating element, and means (18) for actuating the electrical means.This device is characterized in that it further comprises a pierced backcover (28) attached to said case (2) and arranged so as to protect it, and so as to allow a vibration of the set of the vibrating element-membrane (20, 22), said backcover being attached to said case in a manually removable manner, and a fitted ring (26) to which is attached said membrane (22), said ring (26) and said membrane (22) being associated to the case in such a way that the set ring-membrane (26, 22) ensures the waterproofness of the case (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1998
    Assignee: SMH Management Services AG
    Inventors: Saji Jabbour, Jacques Muller, Laurent Pantet
  • Patent number: 5668783
    Abstract: A sound generator comprises a transducer (3) intended to be supplied with a signal having a frequency determining the sound to be produced and having a variable amplitude (envelope). To this effect, the transducer is connected in series with the principal path of a semiconductor component (5). The control electrode of this semiconductor component (5) is connected to a RC-circuit (1, 7) capable of providing control pulse trains having said envelope.The RC-circuit comprises a capacitor (7) and at least one input branch (13) of a current mirror (11) the output branch (12) of which supplies a control electrode of the semiconductor component (5). Preferably, the capacitor (7) is connected in series with the input branch (13).Application in particular to wrist-watches equipped with an audible alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 16, 1997
    Assignee: Eta SA Fabriques d'Ebauches
    Inventor: Rudolf Bugmann
  • Patent number: 5666331
    Abstract: An alarm clock controls the supply of electrical power to a first outlet mounted on the clock housing and receiving a plug-in external electrical device to periodically change the state of the electrical device in response to an alarm time signal. A second controllable outlet is also mounted on the housing for receiving a second plug-in external electrical device. Selectible steady or pulse power is provided to the second outlet. A receiver detects power line carrier signals on the incoming electrical power lines generated by a remote device in response to the occurrence of a sound producing event or other signal. The receiver causes the clock to supply power to either or both outlets depending on the position of a function switch in response to a detected power line carrier signal. An audible sound generator provides an audible alarm tone in response to an alarm signal. Frequency and volume controls selectively vary the frequency and volume of the audible alarm tone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 9, 1997
    Assignee: RHK Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Adam J. Kollin
  • Patent number: 5559495
    Abstract: A sleep-preventing alarm including timer circuitry for selectively transmitting a periodic indicator signal upon completion of a characteristic time interval in one of a number of modes of operation; a lamp for transmitting a visual alert upon receipt of a lamp indication signal; a speaker for transmitting an audible alert upon receipt of a speaker activation signal; indicator circuitry coupled to the timer circuitry, the speaker, and the lamp and with the indicator circuitry generating both a periodic lamp indication signal for a pre-determined amount of time and a periodic speaker activation signal for a pre-determined amount of time upon receipt of the indicator signal from the timer circuitry; keypad circuitry for placing the timing circuitry in one of the modes of operation; and a power cable for providing electrical energy to the circuitry for operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 24, 1996
    Inventor: Danny M. Cochran
  • Patent number: 5479379
    Abstract: The alarm clock is formed of time indicating hands (3), alarm hands (4), and an alarm setting device (202, 204, 205, and 207); wherein the alarm setting device is provided with an alarm section (200) which works to stop the movement of alarm hands when the alarm setting device is in the alarm-set condition, and works to move the alarm hands in synchronous motion with the time indicating hands when the alarm setting device is in the non-alarm-set condition. This structure allows the wearer to instantly distinguish the alarm-set condition from the non-alarm-set condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 26, 1995
    Assignee: Citizen Watch Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hidetaka Tsuchiya, Haruhiko Higuchi