US20050164630A1 - Repeater unit with flourescent ballast - Google Patents
Repeater unit with flourescent ballast Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20050164630A1 US20050164630A1 US11/078,576 US7857605A US2005164630A1 US 20050164630 A1 US20050164630 A1 US 20050164630A1 US 7857605 A US7857605 A US 7857605A US 2005164630 A1 US2005164630 A1 US 2005164630A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- repeater
- accordance
- ballast
- electrically powered
- module
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
- H05B41/00—Circuit arrangements or apparatus for igniting or operating discharge lamps
- H05B41/14—Circuit arrangements
- H05B41/24—Circuit arrangements in which the lamp is fed by high frequency ac, or with separate oscillator frequency
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G08—SIGNALLING
- G08B—SIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS
- G08B1/00—Systems for signalling characterised solely by the form of transmission of the signal
- G08B1/08—Systems for signalling characterised solely by the form of transmission of the signal using electric transmission ; transformation of alarm signals to electrical signals from a different medium, e.g. transmission of an electric alarm signal upon detection of an audible alarm signal
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G08—SIGNALLING
- G08B—SIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS
- G08B25/00—Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems
- G08B25/009—Signalling of the alarm condition to a substation whose identity is signalled to a central station, e.g. relaying alarm signals in order to extend communication range
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G08—SIGNALLING
- G08B—SIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS
- G08B25/00—Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems
- G08B25/01—Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems characterised by the transmission medium
- G08B25/10—Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems characterised by the transmission medium using wireless transmission systems
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G08—SIGNALLING
- G08B—SIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS
- G08B7/00—Signalling systems according to more than one of groups G08B3/00 - G08B6/00; Personal calling systems according to more than one of groups G08B3/00 - G08B6/00
- G08B7/06—Signalling systems according to more than one of groups G08B3/00 - G08B6/00; Personal calling systems according to more than one of groups G08B3/00 - G08B6/00 using electric transmission, e.g. involving audible and visible signalling through the use of sound and light sources
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
- H01R33/00—Coupling devices specially adapted for supporting apparatus and having one part acting as a holder providing support and electrical connection via a counterpart which is structurally associated with the apparatus, e.g. lamp holders; Separate parts thereof
- H01R33/94—Holders formed as intermediate parts for linking a counter-part to a coupling part
- H01R33/942—Holders formed as intermediate parts for linking a counter-part to a coupling part for tubular fluorescent lamps
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
- H05B41/00—Circuit arrangements or apparatus for igniting or operating discharge lamps
- H05B41/02—Details
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
- H05B47/00—Circuit arrangements for operating light sources in general, i.e. where the type of light source is not relevant
- H05B47/10—Controlling the light source
- H05B47/175—Controlling the light source by remote control
- H05B47/19—Controlling the light source by remote control via wireless transmission
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G08—SIGNALLING
- G08C—TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS FOR MEASURED VALUES, CONTROL OR SIMILAR SIGNALS
- G08C2201/00—Transmission systems of control signals via wireless link
- G08C2201/40—Remote control systems using repeaters, converters, gateways
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
- H01R33/00—Coupling devices specially adapted for supporting apparatus and having one part acting as a holder providing support and electrical connection via a counterpart which is structurally associated with the apparatus, e.g. lamp holders; Separate parts thereof
- H01R33/945—Holders with built-in electrical component
Definitions
- the present invention relates to radio frequency wireless signaling systems, and more particularly to an improved repeater system which can be incorporated into electrically powered fixtures for supplying power to common electrical devices such as light bulbs, fluorescent tubes, circuit outlets and switches, or other electrical appliances.
- Known systems employ remote transducers to signal various observations to a base station, but can lack power to reach the destination, such as a centrally located station.
- One or more repeaters intercept the signal, amplify it and retransmit it until the destination is reached.
- a transducer at a remote location can detect and signal smoke, temperature, humidity, wind speed and other important environmental parameters.
- Other transducers can provide signals representative of the state or the physical condition of an object or physical location.
- such detectors issue an audible or visible alarm, but not necessarily a signal that can be received in a centrally located station where someone can call for assistance.
- a repeater circuit associated with a transducer such as a smoke detectors or other fire sensors, if equipped with a wireless transmitter to broadcast a signal that includes the location of the sensor and the conditions being monitored could, if operated in conjunction with repeaters between the sensor and the base station, alert the base station to the change in conditions that can be interpreted as a fire.
- the repeater configured to mate to an electrical power connection and to act as a repeater to receive and retransmit signals.
- the repeater can be installed in an existing electrical receptacle so that signals from nearby detectors that need monitoring can be stored, amplified, and broadcast to a centrally located station or other repeaters.
- the repeater can be compacts and provide relatively continuous operation, even when electrical power from the receptacle is unavailable.
- a rechargeable power supply such as, for example capacitors, rechargeable batteries, etc., is provided. The rechargeable power supply is charged when power is provided to the repeater unit and is used to power the repeater unit when other power is not available or insufficient. The recharging of the rechargeable power supply facilitates relatively uninterrupted communication by the transceiver.
- the repeater unit is designed to mate with an existing light bulb socket so that it can be interposed between a light bulb and the socket. Since the repeater unit also includes a light bulb socket, that must be done to install the repeater unit is remove the light bulb from the socket, insert the repeater unit and return the light bulb to the socket of the repeater unit.
- the rechargeable batteries permit operation of the repeater unit to relay sensor information to the central location such as a base station. In the evening, when the lights are powered-on, the repeater unit is also powered-on and the batteries are recharged. Thereby, the repeater unit provides continuous operation even when electrical power from a light bulb socket or other receptacle is unavailable.
- the repeater unit is installed in a fluorescent light fixture and connected to the power lines.
- the repeater unit could be installed in EXIT signs or even switches.
- the repeater unit can be incorporated in outlet receptacles where power is provided to the unit and the batteries provide a back up in the event of a loss of power to the premises.
- FIG. 1 is a side, partially sectioned view of repeater incorporated in a lamp base.
- FIGS. 2A, 2B are block diagrams of the circuits for a repeater in a lamp base as shown in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 3 shows the repeater incorporated into an R30 light fixture.
- FIG. 4A shows the repeater is incorporated with a light bulb.
- FIG. 4B shows the repeater is a light bulb shaped fixture that cooperates with a light bulb.
- FIGS. 5A and 5B shows the repeater is incorporated with a fluorescent light fixture.
- FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a repeater is incorporated into an electrical outlet.
- FIG. 7 partly sectional, partly phantom view of outlet of FIG. 6 .
- FIG. 8 shows a repeater that includes a repeater module and a fluorescent lamp ballast.
- FIG. 9 is a block diagram of the repeater unit shown in FIG. 8 .
- FIG. 1 shows a repeater adapted to be installed into an electrical light socket 14 .
- the repeater 10 includes a housing unit 12 fitted with a first mating structure 16 which is adapted to mechanically and to electrically cooperate with the electrical light socket 14 .
- the repeater unit 10 further includes a first power supply 22 to provide power to the repeater unit 10 .
- the electrical light socket 14 is a candelabra socket and the first mating structure 16 is adapted to fit the candelabra socket. It should be noted that the electric light socket 14 is electrically connected to the second power supply 48 that provides electrical power. In one embodiment, the electrical light socket 14 maintains its existing functionality when repeater unit 10 is installed.
- the first mating structure 16 is a standard candelabra base that mechanically and electrically cooperates with the candelabra socket. Additionally, it should be noted that the first mating structure 16 can be any mechanical structure that mates with an electrical receptacle. Electrical light socket 14 can be an electrical outlet, an electrical receptacle, an electrical fixture, a power supply fixture, an existing fixture, an electrically powered fixture, a fixture or a fixture that is associated with a second power supply 48 .
- the housing unit 12 can further include a heat shield 11 .
- the heat shield 11 acts as a reflector for light when a light bulb 18 is powered-on.
- the housing unit 12 includes a housing interior wall 20 , wherein the first power supply 22 is mounted between the housing interior wall 20 and the heat shield 11 , the first power supply 22 .
- Mounted to the housing unit 12 is an antenna 24 which transmits and receives wireless signals.
- the antenna 24 is depicted as a monopole antenna but can be any device that will receive and transmit wireless signals.
- the antenna 24 is shown external to the housing, but one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the antenna 24 can also configured to be conformal with the housing and/or internal to the housing.
- a repeater module 26 is located at the base of the housing interior while a second circuit board 34 is connected to a second mating structure 17 that is adapted to insert a light source such as a light bulb 18 . Further, the second mating structure 17 is electrically connected to the second power source 48 .
- the repeater module 26 includes a transceiver circuit 28 .
- the first power supply 22 which can include a rechargeable power storage module, comprising a rechargeable power storage cell and a power recharger, to provide energizing power to set the desired operating point for the transceiver circuit 28 .
- the first power supply 22 is a rechargeable battery module including a rechargeable battery 27 and a battery charger 46 .
- the first power supply 22 can be any electrical storage device such as a nickel cadmium battery, a lithium-ion battery, a rechargeable power storage module, or any device that provides electrical energy.
- a power recharger can be any device that charges a rechargeable power storage cell such as a solar panel array, transformer, electrical circuit board or other electrical circuit.
- the second power supply 48 is a source of energy from the electrical light socket 14 . The second power supply 48 furnishes electrical energy to the battery charger 46 .
- the battery charger 46 powers the transceiver circuit 28 and recharges the rechargeable battery 27 when power from the second power supply 48 is available, i.e., powered-on.
- the first power supply 22 powers the repeater unit 10 .
- the repeater module 26 further includes a first system and a second system.
- the first system includes the transceiver circuit 28 , a received signal strength indicator 31 and a display 38 .
- the second system includes a micro-controller unit 40 , a memory storage unit 32 and a data communication port 42 .
- the transceiver circuit 28 is a Texas Instruments, part No. TRF6901 RF transceiver circuit.
- the transceiver circuit 28 can be any similar transmit/receive circuit that will receive and transmit electrical signals.
- the transceiver circuit 28 receives at least one electrical signal from the antenna 24 .
- the signal is a Radio Frequency (RF), a microwave or millimeter wave signal.
- RF Radio Frequency
- the signal originates at a transducer 23 , which can by example be located in a building, such as an apartment or office building, which measures environmental parameters such as smoke index, particulate matter, moisture, humidity, pressure or temperature.
- a transducer 23 can be located in an exit sign, a fire alarm, an air-conditioning unit, or other locations where a user desires to monitor the environmental parameters and to send this information to another location, such as a repeater or a base station.
- the transceiver circuit 28 After the transceiver circuit 28 receives and processes the signal representing the measured environmental parameter, the signal is electrically coupled to the micro-controller 40 .
- the micro-controller is a Xilinix, Part No. XE2S100E. Generally, the micro-controller evaluates the signal, then categorizes and maps the signal into representative values for storage within the memory storage unit 32 .
- the memory storage unit 32 is a Microchip, Part No. #93AA56A, but, other memory storage devices can be substituted and are also included.
- the micro-controller 40 can send the representative values back through the transceiver circuit 26 for re-transmission through the antenna 24 to a centrally located station, a centralized database station, another repeater unit, or other destination.
- the data communication port 42 provides control and data signals to the micro-controller unit 40 .
- Such control and data signals used to program, to reprogram, to enter data, or to remove data which can be stored internally within the micro-controller unit 40 or externally within the memory storage unit 32 .
- the control and data signals program the micro-controller unit 40 to determine which of the signals received by the antenna 24 is to be processed further by the transceiver circuit 28 .
- the control and data signals program the micro-controller 40 to store such signals in the memory storage unit 32 .
- control signals program the micro-controller unit 40 to select which of the stored signals is to be retrieved from the memory storage unit 32 , and which of them are to be transmitted from the transceiver unit 28 through the antenna 24 , to the next repeater unit, the base station, centrally located station, or centralized database station.
- repeaters described in the following paragraphs are not hard-wired, but rather plug into an existing socket. Additionally, the repeaters described below can include sockets for use with other electrical appliances in the same way that the first embodiment includes sockets for the light bulb that was removed to install the repeater.
- FIG. 3 shows the repeater 10 configured to allow insertion of an R30-type light bulb and fits into an R30-type light fixture.
- This embodiment includes the repeater board 26 , the antenna 24 and the first power supply 22 and other circuitry (not shown) but described functionally in FIGS. 2A and 2B .
- the major difference from the FIG. 1 embodiment is that this embodiment fits into an R30 light fixture.
- FIG. 4A shows the repeater 10 packaged within a light bulb.
- This embodiment includes the repeater board 26 , the antenna 24 , and the first power supply 22 and other circuitry (not shown) but described functionally in FIGS. 2A and 2B .
- the major difference from the FIG. 1 embodiment is that in this alternative embodiment, the repeater unit 10 looks like a light bulb.
- FIG. 4B shows the repeater 10 as a light bulb shaped fixture that cooperates with another light bulb.
- This embodiment includes the repeater board 26 , the antenna 24 , and the first power supply 22 and other circuitry (not shown) but described functionally in FIGS. 2A and 2B .
- the major difference from the FIG. 1 embodiment is that in this alternative embodiment, the repeater unit 10 looks like a light bulb and cooperates with another light bulb.
- FIGS. 5A, 5B show the repeater 10 incorporated with a fluorescent light fixture 13 that includes a ballast 9 .
- This embodiment includes the repeater board 26 , the antenna 24 , and the first power supply 22 and other circuitry (not shown) but described functionally in FIGS. 2A and 2B .
- the major difference from the FIG. 1 embodiment is that this alternative embodiment repeater unit 10 plus a first fluorescent light bulb 21 replaces a standard fluorescent light bulb.
- the repeater unit 10 includes a plug 19 that fits into a fluorescent light fixture socket (not shown) and is mechanically adapted to accept a first fluorescent bulb 21 so that the functionality of the fluorescent light fixture 13 is maintained.
- a second fluorescent bulb 15 also fits into the fluorescent light fixture 13 to permit more light.
- the repeater described in the next two paragraphs is not hard-wired, but rather plugs into an existing socket. Additionally, the repeaters described below include sockets for use with other electrical appliances in the same way that the first embodiment includes sockets for the light bulb that was removed to install the repeater. Finally, installation can be described as described above.
- FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a repeater incorporated into a service outlet 62 .
- a service outlet 62 is an electric outlet but can be any outlet that provides a source of electrical energy.
- a service outlet repeater unit 60 (not shown) is installed into the plastic housing 58 .
- the service outlet repeater unit 60 (not shown) includes outlet repeater antennas 56 to receive and to transmit electric signals to and from repeaters, base stations, or other destinations such as a centrally located data center.
- this alternative embodiment is plugged into an existing electrical outlet or socket instead of inserted into an electrical light receptacle.
- FIG. 7 is a partly sectional, partly phantom view of the service outlet 62 of FIG. 6 .
- This alternative embodiment houses the service outlet repeater unit 60 within the service outlet 62 and has the similar functional aspects and building blocks as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B .
- the service outlet repeater unit 60 includes the following components: the plastic housing 58 (as shown in FIG. 3 ); the service outlet 62 (functionally equivalent to the second power supply 48 ); outlet batteries 64 (functionally equivalent to the first power supply 22 ); a transceiver/repeater printed circuit board 66 (functionally equivalent to the RF circuit board 26 ); and outlet repeater service antennas 56 (functionally equivalent to the antenna 24 ).
- the service outlet repeater unit 60 draws power from the outlet batteries 64 during periods of time the service outlet 62 is not powered, e.g., blown fuse or when power is unavailable.
- the service outlet repeater unit 60 recharges the outlet batteries 64 and powers the service outlet repeater unit 60 during periods when the service outlet 62 is energized, i.e., powered-on.
- the choice for components are only exemplary in nature including: the plastic housing which can be any housing unit, a service outlet which can be any wired electrical receptacle, and the outlet batteries, which can be any rechargeable storage device.
- the repeater can further be hard-wired into an existing electrical outlet.
- the component functionality is the same as discussed in the above embodiments, however, the installation would be different such as requiring partial or full removal of existing wall outlet plug, and electrical connection of the repeater to existing wires disconnected from an existing wall outlet and mounting to the surface associated with an existing wall outlet.
- the repeater is adapted to replace a building accouterment while maintaining said functionality of said building accouterment.
- the building accouterment is by way of example, a ceiling tile, a heating and ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) grill, a ceiling speaker, a ceiling speaker tile, and a speaker grill or speaker attached to the wall of the building or the like.
- HVAC heating and ventilation and air conditioning
- a first power supply can be the sole source of electrical power for the repeater unit.
- both a first power supply and a second power supply can supply power to the repeater unit.
- the installation would be different than FIG. 6 above, including removal of the building accouterment which is well known in the art, and installation of the repeater unit adapted to replace a building accouterment.
- FIG. 8 shows the repeater 800 incorporated in to a screw-in lamp fixture and including fluorescent lamp ballast 801 module.
- the repeater unit 800 includes the repeater module 26 , the antenna 24 , and the power supply 22 .
- a connector 802 is provided for connecting to a fluorescent lamp 810 .
- a lamp 810 is shown in FIG. 8 by way of example and not by way of limitation.
- the repeater unit 800 mates to electrical power through a mating structure 16 .
- the mating structure 16 is configured to mate with a two-way screw-in lamp base.
- the mating structure 16 is configured to mate with a three-way screw-in lamp base.
- the mating structure 16 is configured to mate with an electrical outlet.
- FIG. 9 is a block diagram 900 of the repeater unit 800 .
- Input power is provided from the mating structure 16 to an optional surge protector 901 .
- Output power from the surge protector 901 is provided to the ballast 801 and to the repeater module 26 . If the surge protector 901 is omitted, then input power from the mating structure 16 is provided to the ballast 801 and to the repeater module 26 .
- Output power from the ballast 801 is provided through connector 802 to the lamp 810 .
- a power supply 905 is provided to provide power from the mating structure 16 to the rechargeable supply 22 . Power from the rechargeable supply 22 is provided to the repeater module 26 .
- the ballast 801 and the repeater module 26 are be combined into a single unit.
- the ballast 801 and the repeater module 26 share some common functionality.
- a low-voltage common low-voltage power supply is provided to power portions of the ballast 801 and the repeater module 26 .
- an optional communication path 902 is provided between the ballast 801 and the repeater module 26 .
- a processor that controls functions of the repeater module 26 uses the control path 902 to also control and monitor selected functions of the ballast 801 .
- the ballast 801 uses the control path 902 to provide status and operational information to the repeater module 26 such that the repeater module 26 can transmit ballast status information (e.g., ballast failed, lamp failed, etc.) to a monitoring system.
- ballast status information e.g., ballast failed, lamp failed, etc.
- the repeater module 26 is configured to use the communication path 902 to control one or more operational functions of the ballast 801 (e.g., on/off functions, dimmer functions, etc.). In one embodiment, the repeater module 26 controls the ballast 801 according to commands received by the repeater module 26 by radio frequency communications.
- the mating structure 16 is configured to mate with a three-way lamp base having a common lead, a “high” lead, and a “low” lead.
- the repeater 26 is configured to draw power from either the high lead, the low lead, or both.
- the ballast 801 is configured to provide relatively brighter light from the lamp 810 when the high lead is activated and relatively dimmer light form the lamp 810 with only the low lead is activated.
- the lamp control described in connection with the block diagram 900 can also be provided in connection with the repeater unit shown in FIGS. 1-7 .
- the ballast 801 can be replaced with one or more relays or electronic switches (e.g., dimmer circuits) controlled by the repeater module 26 to provide switched power to the connector 17 .
Abstract
Description
- The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/718,374 titled “REPEATER UNIT”, which was filed Nov. 19, 2003, the entire contents of which is hereby incorporated by reference.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention relates to radio frequency wireless signaling systems, and more particularly to an improved repeater system which can be incorporated into electrically powered fixtures for supplying power to common electrical devices such as light bulbs, fluorescent tubes, circuit outlets and switches, or other electrical appliances.
- 2. Description of the Related Art
- Known systems employ remote transducers to signal various observations to a base station, but can lack power to reach the destination, such as a centrally located station. One or more repeaters intercept the signal, amplify it and retransmit it until the destination is reached. For example, a transducer at a remote location can detect and signal smoke, temperature, humidity, wind speed and other important environmental parameters. Other transducers can provide signals representative of the state or the physical condition of an object or physical location.
- Most buildings, including dwellings, are now equipped with transducers or sensors combined in a detector to monitor the performance and efficiency of heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment. Other sensors incorporated in a smoke detector are used to monitor atmospheric parameters such as smoke level or temperature condition that warn of a fire. Still other sensors are used to signal a security breach, or other hazardous or dangerous condition.
- For the most part, such detectors issue an audible or visible alarm, but not necessarily a signal that can be received in a centrally located station where someone can call for assistance. A repeater circuit associated with a transducer such as a smoke detectors or other fire sensors, if equipped with a wireless transmitter to broadcast a signal that includes the location of the sensor and the conditions being monitored could, if operated in conjunction with repeaters between the sensor and the base station, alert the base station to the change in conditions that can be interpreted as a fire.
- But providing a power supply to such a repeater is troublesome because electrical outlets can not be readily available. Usually, within relatively close range of a detector are installed powered devices such as light fixtures or power outlets to which power is applied from a central location for predetermined and finite periods of time. For example, in a large residential complex such as an apartment building, area lights are illuminated during the hours of darkness and are not powered during the times when adequate ambient light is provided from natural sources.
- These and other problems are solved by the repeater configured to mate to an electrical power connection and to act as a repeater to receive and retransmit signals. In one embodiment, the repeater can be installed in an existing electrical receptacle so that signals from nearby detectors that need monitoring can be stored, amplified, and broadcast to a centrally located station or other repeaters. The repeater can be compacts and provide relatively continuous operation, even when electrical power from the receptacle is unavailable. In one embodiment, a rechargeable power supply, such as, for example capacitors, rechargeable batteries, etc., is provided. The rechargeable power supply is charged when power is provided to the repeater unit and is used to power the repeater unit when other power is not available or insufficient. The recharging of the rechargeable power supply facilitates relatively uninterrupted communication by the transceiver.
- In one embodiment, the repeater unit is designed to mate with an existing light bulb socket so that it can be interposed between a light bulb and the socket. Since the repeater unit also includes a light bulb socket, that must be done to install the repeater unit is remove the light bulb from the socket, insert the repeater unit and return the light bulb to the socket of the repeater unit. During daylight hours, while the light bulb is not being powered-on, the rechargeable batteries permit operation of the repeater unit to relay sensor information to the central location such as a base station. In the evening, when the lights are powered-on, the repeater unit is also powered-on and the batteries are recharged. Thereby, the repeater unit provides continuous operation even when electrical power from a light bulb socket or other receptacle is unavailable.
- In other embodiments, the repeater unit is installed in a fluorescent light fixture and connected to the power lines. In additional embodiments, the repeater unit could be installed in EXIT signs or even switches. In yet other embodiments, the repeater unit can be incorporated in outlet receptacles where power is provided to the unit and the batteries provide a back up in the event of a loss of power to the premises.
- For a better understanding of the present invention, reference is made to the below referenced accompanying drawings.
-
FIG. 1 is a side, partially sectioned view of repeater incorporated in a lamp base. -
FIGS. 2A, 2B are block diagrams of the circuits for a repeater in a lamp base as shown inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 shows the repeater incorporated into an R30 light fixture. -
FIG. 4A shows the repeater is incorporated with a light bulb. -
FIG. 4B shows the repeater is a light bulb shaped fixture that cooperates with a light bulb. -
FIGS. 5A and 5B shows the repeater is incorporated with a fluorescent light fixture. -
FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a repeater is incorporated into an electrical outlet. -
FIG. 7 partly sectional, partly phantom view of outlet ofFIG. 6 . -
FIG. 8 shows a repeater that includes a repeater module and a fluorescent lamp ballast. -
FIG. 9 is a block diagram of the repeater unit shown inFIG. 8 . -
FIG. 1 shows a repeater adapted to be installed into anelectrical light socket 14. InFIG. 1 , therepeater 10 includes ahousing unit 12 fitted with afirst mating structure 16 which is adapted to mechanically and to electrically cooperate with theelectrical light socket 14. Therepeater unit 10 further includes afirst power supply 22 to provide power to therepeater unit 10. In one embodiment, theelectrical light socket 14 is a candelabra socket and thefirst mating structure 16 is adapted to fit the candelabra socket. It should be noted that theelectric light socket 14 is electrically connected to thesecond power supply 48 that provides electrical power. In one embodiment, theelectrical light socket 14 maintains its existing functionality whenrepeater unit 10 is installed. Further, in this embodiment, thefirst mating structure 16 is a standard candelabra base that mechanically and electrically cooperates with the candelabra socket. Additionally, it should be noted that thefirst mating structure 16 can be any mechanical structure that mates with an electrical receptacle.Electrical light socket 14 can be an electrical outlet, an electrical receptacle, an electrical fixture, a power supply fixture, an existing fixture, an electrically powered fixture, a fixture or a fixture that is associated with asecond power supply 48. - The
housing unit 12 can further include aheat shield 11. Theheat shield 11 acts as a reflector for light when alight bulb 18 is powered-on. However, it should be noted that even though thelight bulb 18 is depicted in the figure as an incandescent flood light bulb, a repeater designed to cooperate with other light fixtures such as a fluorescent light, a fluorescent tube, a neon light, a neon tube, other light sources or common electrical devices come within the spirit and the scope of the present invention. In addition, thehousing unit 12 includes a housinginterior wall 20, wherein thefirst power supply 22 is mounted between the housinginterior wall 20 and theheat shield 11, thefirst power supply 22. Mounted to thehousing unit 12 is anantenna 24 which transmits and receives wireless signals. Theantenna 24 is depicted as a monopole antenna but can be any device that will receive and transmit wireless signals. Theantenna 24 is shown external to the housing, but one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that theantenna 24 can also configured to be conformal with the housing and/or internal to the housing. Arepeater module 26 is located at the base of the housing interior while asecond circuit board 34 is connected to asecond mating structure 17 that is adapted to insert a light source such as alight bulb 18. Further, thesecond mating structure 17 is electrically connected to thesecond power source 48. In one embodiment, therepeater module 26 includes atransceiver circuit 28. In addition, thefirst power supply 22, which can include a rechargeable power storage module, comprising a rechargeable power storage cell and a power recharger, to provide energizing power to set the desired operating point for thetransceiver circuit 28. - Referring to
FIGS. 2A and 2B , block diagrams of therepeater module 26 is shown. In one embodiment, thefirst power supply 22 is a rechargeable battery module including arechargeable battery 27 and abattery charger 46. It should be noted that thefirst power supply 22 can be any electrical storage device such as a nickel cadmium battery, a lithium-ion battery, a rechargeable power storage module, or any device that provides electrical energy. It should also be noted that a power recharger can be any device that charges a rechargeable power storage cell such as a solar panel array, transformer, electrical circuit board or other electrical circuit. Thesecond power supply 48 is a source of energy from the electricallight socket 14. Thesecond power supply 48 furnishes electrical energy to thebattery charger 46. Thebattery charger 46, in turn, powers thetransceiver circuit 28 and recharges therechargeable battery 27 when power from thesecond power supply 48 is available, i.e., powered-on. When thesecond power supply 48 is not available, not being supplied, or powered-off to themating structure 16, thefirst power supply 22 powers therepeater unit 10. - The
repeater module 26 further includes a first system and a second system. The first system includes thetransceiver circuit 28, a receivedsignal strength indicator 31 and adisplay 38. The second system includes amicro-controller unit 40, amemory storage unit 32 and adata communication port 42. In one embodiment, thetransceiver circuit 28 is a Texas Instruments, part No. TRF6901 RF transceiver circuit. However, thetransceiver circuit 28 can be any similar transmit/receive circuit that will receive and transmit electrical signals. In this embodiment, thetransceiver circuit 28 receives at least one electrical signal from theantenna 24. The signal is a Radio Frequency (RF), a microwave or millimeter wave signal. The signal originates at atransducer 23, which can by example be located in a building, such as an apartment or office building, which measures environmental parameters such as smoke index, particulate matter, moisture, humidity, pressure or temperature. By way of other examples, thetransducer 23 can be located in an exit sign, a fire alarm, an air-conditioning unit, or other locations where a user desires to monitor the environmental parameters and to send this information to another location, such as a repeater or a base station. - After the
transceiver circuit 28 receives and processes the signal representing the measured environmental parameter, the signal is electrically coupled to themicro-controller 40. In one embodiment, the micro-controller is a Xilinix, Part No. XE2S100E. Generally, the micro-controller evaluates the signal, then categorizes and maps the signal into representative values for storage within thememory storage unit 32. In one embodiment, thememory storage unit 32 is a Microchip, Part No. #93AA56A, but, other memory storage devices can be substituted and are also included. Following, themicro-controller 40 can send the representative values back through thetransceiver circuit 26 for re-transmission through theantenna 24 to a centrally located station, a centralized database station, another repeater unit, or other destination. - The
data communication port 42 provides control and data signals to themicro-controller unit 40. Such control and data signals used to program, to reprogram, to enter data, or to remove data which can be stored internally within themicro-controller unit 40 or externally within thememory storage unit 32. In one mode, the control and data signals program themicro-controller unit 40 to determine which of the signals received by theantenna 24 is to be processed further by thetransceiver circuit 28. In another mode, the control and data signals program themicro-controller 40 to store such signals in thememory storage unit 32. In another mode, the control signals program themicro-controller unit 40 to select which of the stored signals is to be retrieved from thememory storage unit 32, and which of them are to be transmitted from thetransceiver unit 28 through theantenna 24, to the next repeater unit, the base station, centrally located station, or centralized database station. - The repeaters described in the following paragraphs are not hard-wired, but rather plug into an existing socket. Additionally, the repeaters described below can include sockets for use with other electrical appliances in the same way that the first embodiment includes sockets for the light bulb that was removed to install the repeater.
-
FIG. 3 shows therepeater 10 configured to allow insertion of an R30-type light bulb and fits into an R30-type light fixture. This embodiment includes therepeater board 26, theantenna 24 and thefirst power supply 22 and other circuitry (not shown) but described functionally inFIGS. 2A and 2B . The major difference from theFIG. 1 embodiment is that this embodiment fits into an R30 light fixture. -
FIG. 4A shows therepeater 10 packaged within a light bulb. This embodiment includes therepeater board 26, theantenna 24, and thefirst power supply 22 and other circuitry (not shown) but described functionally inFIGS. 2A and 2B . The major difference from theFIG. 1 embodiment is that in this alternative embodiment, therepeater unit 10 looks like a light bulb. -
FIG. 4B shows therepeater 10 as a light bulb shaped fixture that cooperates with another light bulb. This embodiment includes therepeater board 26, theantenna 24, and thefirst power supply 22 and other circuitry (not shown) but described functionally inFIGS. 2A and 2B . The major difference from theFIG. 1 embodiment is that in this alternative embodiment, therepeater unit 10 looks like a light bulb and cooperates with another light bulb. -
FIGS. 5A, 5B show therepeater 10 incorporated with afluorescent light fixture 13 that includes a ballast 9. This embodiment includes therepeater board 26, theantenna 24, and thefirst power supply 22 and other circuitry (not shown) but described functionally inFIGS. 2A and 2B . The major difference from theFIG. 1 embodiment is that this alternativeembodiment repeater unit 10 plus a firstfluorescent light bulb 21 replaces a standard fluorescent light bulb. Therepeater unit 10 includes aplug 19 that fits into a fluorescent light fixture socket (not shown) and is mechanically adapted to accept a firstfluorescent bulb 21 so that the functionality of thefluorescent light fixture 13 is maintained. Moreover, a secondfluorescent bulb 15 also fits into thefluorescent light fixture 13 to permit more light. The repeater described in the next two paragraphs is not hard-wired, but rather plugs into an existing socket. Additionally, the repeaters described below include sockets for use with other electrical appliances in the same way that the first embodiment includes sockets for the light bulb that was removed to install the repeater. Finally, installation can be described as described above. -
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a repeater incorporated into aservice outlet 62. Aservice outlet 62 is an electric outlet but can be any outlet that provides a source of electrical energy. In particular, a service outlet repeater unit 60 (not shown) is installed into theplastic housing 58. Further, the service outlet repeater unit 60 (not shown) includesoutlet repeater antennas 56 to receive and to transmit electric signals to and from repeaters, base stations, or other destinations such as a centrally located data center. However, the major difference from other embodiments discussed elsewhere in this specification is that this alternative embodiment is plugged into an existing electrical outlet or socket instead of inserted into an electrical light receptacle. -
FIG. 7 is a partly sectional, partly phantom view of theservice outlet 62 ofFIG. 6 . This alternative embodiment houses the serviceoutlet repeater unit 60 within theservice outlet 62 and has the similar functional aspects and building blocks as shown inFIGS. 2A and 2B . In particular, the serviceoutlet repeater unit 60 includes the following components: the plastic housing 58 (as shown inFIG. 3 ); the service outlet 62 (functionally equivalent to the second power supply 48); outlet batteries 64 (functionally equivalent to the first power supply 22); a transceiver/repeater printed circuit board 66 (functionally equivalent to the RF circuit board 26); and outlet repeater service antennas 56 (functionally equivalent to the antenna 24). The serviceoutlet repeater unit 60 draws power from theoutlet batteries 64 during periods of time theservice outlet 62 is not powered, e.g., blown fuse or when power is unavailable. The serviceoutlet repeater unit 60 recharges theoutlet batteries 64 and powers the serviceoutlet repeater unit 60 during periods when theservice outlet 62 is energized, i.e., powered-on. It should be noticed that the choice for components are only exemplary in nature including: the plastic housing which can be any housing unit, a service outlet which can be any wired electrical receptacle, and the outlet batteries, which can be any rechargeable storage device. - Further, in another embodiment of
FIG. 6 , the repeater can further be hard-wired into an existing electrical outlet. In this embodiment, the component functionality is the same as discussed in the above embodiments, however, the installation would be different such as requiring partial or full removal of existing wall outlet plug, and electrical connection of the repeater to existing wires disconnected from an existing wall outlet and mounting to the surface associated with an existing wall outlet. - Further, in another embodiment of
FIG. 6 , the repeater is adapted to replace a building accouterment while maintaining said functionality of said building accouterment. The building accouterment is by way of example, a ceiling tile, a heating and ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) grill, a ceiling speaker, a ceiling speaker tile, and a speaker grill or speaker attached to the wall of the building or the like. In this embodiment, a first power supply can be the sole source of electrical power for the repeater unit. An alternative of this embodiment, both a first power supply and a second power supply can supply power to the repeater unit. Further, in this embodiment, the installation would be different thanFIG. 6 above, including removal of the building accouterment which is well known in the art, and installation of the repeater unit adapted to replace a building accouterment. -
FIG. 8 shows therepeater 800 incorporated in to a screw-in lamp fixture and includingfluorescent lamp ballast 801 module. Therepeater unit 800 includes therepeater module 26, theantenna 24, and thepower supply 22. Aconnector 802 is provided for connecting to afluorescent lamp 810. Alamp 810 is shown inFIG. 8 by way of example and not by way of limitation. Therepeater unit 800 mates to electrical power through amating structure 16. In one embodiment, themating structure 16 is configured to mate with a two-way screw-in lamp base. In one embodiment, themating structure 16 is configured to mate with a three-way screw-in lamp base. In one embodiment, themating structure 16 is configured to mate with an electrical outlet. -
FIG. 9 is a block diagram 900 of therepeater unit 800. Input power is provided from themating structure 16 to anoptional surge protector 901. Output power from thesurge protector 901 is provided to theballast 801 and to therepeater module 26. If thesurge protector 901 is omitted, then input power from themating structure 16 is provided to theballast 801 and to therepeater module 26. Output power from theballast 801 is provided throughconnector 802 to thelamp 810. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that theballast 801 and therepeater module 26 are shown as separate modules for purposes of explanation and not by way of limitation. Apower supply 905 is provided to provide power from themating structure 16 to therechargeable supply 22. Power from therechargeable supply 22 is provided to therepeater module 26. - In one embodiment, the
ballast 801 and therepeater module 26 are be combined into a single unit. - In one embodiment, the
ballast 801 and therepeater module 26 share some common functionality. For example, in one embodiment, a low-voltage common low-voltage power supply is provided to power portions of theballast 801 and therepeater module 26. In one embodiment, anoptional communication path 902 is provided between theballast 801 and therepeater module 26. In one embodiment, a processor that controls functions of therepeater module 26 uses thecontrol path 902 to also control and monitor selected functions of theballast 801. In one embodiment, theballast 801 uses thecontrol path 902 to provide status and operational information to therepeater module 26 such that therepeater module 26 can transmit ballast status information (e.g., ballast failed, lamp failed, etc.) to a monitoring system. In one embodiment, therepeater module 26 is configured to use thecommunication path 902 to control one or more operational functions of the ballast 801 (e.g., on/off functions, dimmer functions, etc.). In one embodiment, therepeater module 26 controls theballast 801 according to commands received by therepeater module 26 by radio frequency communications. - In one embodiment, the
mating structure 16 is configured to mate with a three-way lamp base having a common lead, a “high” lead, and a “low” lead. Therepeater 26 is configured to draw power from either the high lead, the low lead, or both. Theballast 801 is configured to provide relatively brighter light from thelamp 810 when the high lead is activated and relatively dimmer light form thelamp 810 with only the low lead is activated. - The lamp control described in connection with the block diagram 900 can also be provided in connection with the repeater unit shown in
FIGS. 1-7 . In such case, theballast 801 can be replaced with one or more relays or electronic switches (e.g., dimmer circuits) controlled by therepeater module 26 to provide switched power to theconnector 17. - The invention is not limited to the specific embodiment described in the above disclosure. Thus, the scope of the invention is limited only the by claims that follow and equivalents thereto.
Claims (14)
Priority Applications (13)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/078,576 US20050164630A1 (en) | 2003-11-19 | 2005-03-11 | Repeater unit with flourescent ballast |
JP2008500717A JP2008533812A (en) | 2005-03-11 | 2006-02-10 | Repeater device with fluorescent light ballast |
CNA2006800078917A CN101288210A (en) | 2005-03-11 | 2006-02-10 | Repeater unit with flourescent ballast |
EP06734851A EP1864356A1 (en) | 2005-03-11 | 2006-02-10 | Repeater unit with flourescent ballast |
RU2007136954/09A RU2007136954A (en) | 2005-03-11 | 2006-02-10 | AMPLIFIER UNIT WITH LUMINESCENT BALLAST RESISTANCE |
CA002599896A CA2599896A1 (en) | 2005-03-11 | 2006-02-10 | Repeater unit with flourescent ballast |
PCT/US2006/004903 WO2006098833A1 (en) | 2005-03-11 | 2006-02-10 | Repeater unit with flourescent ballast |
AU2006223615A AU2006223615A1 (en) | 2005-03-11 | 2006-02-10 | Repeater unit with flourescent ballast |
KR1020077021557A KR20070116828A (en) | 2005-03-11 | 2006-02-10 | Repeater unit with flourescent ballast |
MX2007010916A MX2007010916A (en) | 2005-03-11 | 2006-02-10 | Repeater unit with flourescent ballast. |
US11/431,812 US7460006B2 (en) | 2003-11-19 | 2006-05-10 | Conformal repeater unit |
US11/876,369 US20080094189A1 (en) | 2003-11-19 | 2007-10-22 | Repeater unit with flourescent ballast |
US12/274,244 US20090184810A1 (en) | 2003-11-19 | 2008-11-19 | Conformal repeater unit |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/718,374 US7199701B2 (en) | 2003-11-19 | 2003-11-19 | Repeater unit |
US11/078,576 US20050164630A1 (en) | 2003-11-19 | 2005-03-11 | Repeater unit with flourescent ballast |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/718,374 Continuation-In-Part US7199701B2 (en) | 2003-11-19 | 2003-11-19 | Repeater unit |
Related Child Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/431,812 Division US7460006B2 (en) | 2003-11-19 | 2006-05-10 | Conformal repeater unit |
US11/876,369 Continuation US20080094189A1 (en) | 2003-11-19 | 2007-10-22 | Repeater unit with flourescent ballast |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20050164630A1 true US20050164630A1 (en) | 2005-07-28 |
Family
ID=36571917
Family Applications (4)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/078,576 Abandoned US20050164630A1 (en) | 2003-11-19 | 2005-03-11 | Repeater unit with flourescent ballast |
US11/431,812 Expired - Fee Related US7460006B2 (en) | 2003-11-19 | 2006-05-10 | Conformal repeater unit |
US11/876,369 Abandoned US20080094189A1 (en) | 2003-11-19 | 2007-10-22 | Repeater unit with flourescent ballast |
US12/274,244 Abandoned US20090184810A1 (en) | 2003-11-19 | 2008-11-19 | Conformal repeater unit |
Family Applications After (3)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/431,812 Expired - Fee Related US7460006B2 (en) | 2003-11-19 | 2006-05-10 | Conformal repeater unit |
US11/876,369 Abandoned US20080094189A1 (en) | 2003-11-19 | 2007-10-22 | Repeater unit with flourescent ballast |
US12/274,244 Abandoned US20090184810A1 (en) | 2003-11-19 | 2008-11-19 | Conformal repeater unit |
Country Status (10)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (4) | US20050164630A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1864356A1 (en) |
JP (1) | JP2008533812A (en) |
KR (1) | KR20070116828A (en) |
CN (1) | CN101288210A (en) |
AU (1) | AU2006223615A1 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2599896A1 (en) |
MX (1) | MX2007010916A (en) |
RU (1) | RU2007136954A (en) |
WO (1) | WO2006098833A1 (en) |
Cited By (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20090184810A1 (en) * | 2003-11-19 | 2009-07-23 | Lawrence Kates | Conformal repeater unit |
US7761260B2 (en) | 2005-09-12 | 2010-07-20 | Abl Ip Holding Llc | Light management system having networked intelligent luminaire managers with enhanced diagnostics capabilities |
US7817063B2 (en) | 2005-10-05 | 2010-10-19 | Abl Ip Holding Llc | Method and system for remotely monitoring and controlling field devices with a street lamp elevated mesh network |
US8140276B2 (en) | 2008-02-27 | 2012-03-20 | Abl Ip Holding Llc | System and method for streetlight monitoring diagnostics |
US20130157559A1 (en) * | 2011-12-16 | 2013-06-20 | George Flammer, III | Utility grid wireless node with powered emergency device |
EP3057072A3 (en) * | 2008-03-14 | 2016-11-09 | Hochiki Corporation | Fire-preventing terminal device |
ITUA20162484A1 (en) * | 2016-04-11 | 2017-10-11 | Artemide Spa | LIGHTING SYSTEM |
US20190115706A1 (en) * | 2016-03-29 | 2019-04-18 | Anyware Solutions Aps | Light socket adapter with ambient sensoring means |
Families Citing this family (16)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US7199701B2 (en) * | 2003-11-19 | 2007-04-03 | Lawrence Kates | Repeater unit |
US20060039570A1 (en) * | 2004-08-18 | 2006-02-23 | Ming-Hsiang Yeh | Music broadcasting apparatus |
US7692555B2 (en) * | 2006-08-04 | 2010-04-06 | Harman International Industries, Incorporated | Powering a wireless system from preexisting power |
US20080225510A1 (en) * | 2007-02-16 | 2008-09-18 | Loud Technologies Inc | Speaker assembly |
US20100093274A1 (en) * | 2008-10-15 | 2010-04-15 | Jian Xu | Fault-tolerant non-random signal repeating system for building electric control |
US8175533B2 (en) | 2008-11-25 | 2012-05-08 | Schneider Electric USA, Inc. | Wireless transceiver within an electrical receptacle system |
IT1399161B1 (en) * | 2010-03-26 | 2013-04-11 | Seco S R L | LIGHTING DEVICE EQUIPPED WITH MEANS OF RECEPTION AND DIFFUSION OF MULTIMEDIA CONTENT. |
US9515840B2 (en) * | 2010-12-22 | 2016-12-06 | Nokia Corporation | Light fitting apparatus interfacing with a data communications network |
US8766799B2 (en) * | 2011-12-15 | 2014-07-01 | Daintree Networks, Pty. Ltd. | Providing remote access to a wireless communication device for controlling a device in a housing |
US9416958B2 (en) * | 2012-01-10 | 2016-08-16 | Sony Corporation | Electric light bulb type light source apparatus |
US10806010B2 (en) * | 2013-12-26 | 2020-10-13 | Lutron Technology Company Llc | Control device for use with a three-way lamp socket |
WO2017167336A1 (en) * | 2016-03-29 | 2017-10-05 | Anyware Solutions Aps | Light socket adapter with wireless functionality |
US9848480B1 (en) * | 2016-06-14 | 2017-12-19 | Honeywell International Inc. | Lightbulb in a fixture having a configuration memory |
US10178745B2 (en) * | 2016-09-30 | 2019-01-08 | Hall Labs Llc | Method of charging a light bulb |
US10989427B2 (en) | 2017-12-20 | 2021-04-27 | Trane International Inc. | HVAC system including smart diagnostic capabilites |
CA3091552A1 (en) | 2018-02-15 | 2019-08-22 | Johnson Controls Fire Protection LP | Gunshot detection system with building management system integration |
Citations (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5432500A (en) * | 1993-10-25 | 1995-07-11 | Scripps International, Ltd. | Overhead detector and light assembly with remote control |
US5950149A (en) * | 1997-06-30 | 1999-09-07 | Chrysler Corporation | Method for testing vehicle electrical system during manufacturing |
US20030199247A1 (en) * | 2002-04-18 | 2003-10-23 | International Business Machines Corporation | Light socket wireless repeater and controller |
US6894609B2 (en) * | 2001-07-17 | 2005-05-17 | Royal Thoughts, Llc | Electrical power control and sensor module for a wireless system |
Family Cites Families (17)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
AU4118585A (en) * | 1984-04-09 | 1985-11-01 | Nigg, J. | Verfahren zum losbaren anschliessen elektrischer beleuchtung skorper,adapter bzw. vorschaltgerat sowie schaltungsanordnungmit einem hochfrequenzerzeuger |
GB8813811D0 (en) | 1988-06-10 | 1988-07-13 | Cairney J | Smoke detector |
DE9206294U1 (en) * | 1992-05-11 | 1992-07-02 | Patent-Treuhand-Gesellschaft Fuer Elektrische Gluehlampen Mbh, 8000 Muenchen, De | |
DE19501417A1 (en) * | 1995-01-19 | 1996-07-25 | Holzer Walter | Compact gas-discharge lamp contact system |
US5951151A (en) * | 1997-02-06 | 1999-09-14 | Cooper Technologies Company | Lamp assembly for a recessed ceiling fixture |
US6914533B2 (en) * | 1998-06-22 | 2005-07-05 | Statsignal Ipc Llc | System and method for accessing residential monitoring devices |
ATE263405T1 (en) | 1998-10-07 | 2004-04-15 | Runner & Sprue Ltd | ALARM |
US6433478B1 (en) * | 1999-11-09 | 2002-08-13 | Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. | High frequency electrodeless compact fluorescent lamp |
US7042339B2 (en) * | 2001-05-31 | 2006-05-09 | Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc. | Plug-in single phase power line signal repeater with low voltage bus |
DE10126947C2 (en) * | 2001-06-01 | 2003-06-26 | Deutsch Zentr Luft & Raumfahrt | Data transmission system with a local beacon |
US20030137837A1 (en) * | 2002-01-24 | 2003-07-24 | Craftmade International, Inc. | Dual source lighting fixture |
JP2004055450A (en) * | 2002-07-23 | 2004-02-19 | Nec Corp | Remote monitoring system for outdoor illumination equipment |
WO2004066539A2 (en) * | 2003-01-15 | 2004-08-05 | Symbol Technologies, Inc. | Light fixture wireless access points |
JP2004241217A (en) * | 2003-02-05 | 2004-08-26 | Yamatake Corp | Outdoor lighting equipment |
US7042170B2 (en) * | 2003-05-31 | 2006-05-09 | Lights Of America, Inc. | Digital ballast |
US20050164630A1 (en) * | 2003-11-19 | 2005-07-28 | Lawrence Kates | Repeater unit with flourescent ballast |
US7199701B2 (en) * | 2003-11-19 | 2007-04-03 | Lawrence Kates | Repeater unit |
-
2005
- 2005-03-11 US US11/078,576 patent/US20050164630A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2006
- 2006-02-10 JP JP2008500717A patent/JP2008533812A/en active Pending
- 2006-02-10 WO PCT/US2006/004903 patent/WO2006098833A1/en active Application Filing
- 2006-02-10 KR KR1020077021557A patent/KR20070116828A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2006-02-10 CN CNA2006800078917A patent/CN101288210A/en active Pending
- 2006-02-10 EP EP06734851A patent/EP1864356A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2006-02-10 AU AU2006223615A patent/AU2006223615A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2006-02-10 RU RU2007136954/09A patent/RU2007136954A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2006-02-10 CA CA002599896A patent/CA2599896A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2006-02-10 MX MX2007010916A patent/MX2007010916A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2006-05-10 US US11/431,812 patent/US7460006B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2007
- 2007-10-22 US US11/876,369 patent/US20080094189A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2008
- 2008-11-19 US US12/274,244 patent/US20090184810A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5432500A (en) * | 1993-10-25 | 1995-07-11 | Scripps International, Ltd. | Overhead detector and light assembly with remote control |
US5950149A (en) * | 1997-06-30 | 1999-09-07 | Chrysler Corporation | Method for testing vehicle electrical system during manufacturing |
US6894609B2 (en) * | 2001-07-17 | 2005-05-17 | Royal Thoughts, Llc | Electrical power control and sensor module for a wireless system |
US20030199247A1 (en) * | 2002-04-18 | 2003-10-23 | International Business Machines Corporation | Light socket wireless repeater and controller |
Cited By (17)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20090184810A1 (en) * | 2003-11-19 | 2009-07-23 | Lawrence Kates | Conformal repeater unit |
US7761260B2 (en) | 2005-09-12 | 2010-07-20 | Abl Ip Holding Llc | Light management system having networked intelligent luminaire managers with enhanced diagnostics capabilities |
US7911359B2 (en) | 2005-09-12 | 2011-03-22 | Abl Ip Holding Llc | Light management system having networked intelligent luminaire managers that support third-party applications |
US8010319B2 (en) | 2005-09-12 | 2011-08-30 | Abl Ip Holding Llc | Light management system having networked intelligent luminaire managers |
US8260575B2 (en) | 2005-09-12 | 2012-09-04 | Abl Ip Holding Llc | Light management system having networked intelligent luminaire managers |
US7817063B2 (en) | 2005-10-05 | 2010-10-19 | Abl Ip Holding Llc | Method and system for remotely monitoring and controlling field devices with a street lamp elevated mesh network |
US8140276B2 (en) | 2008-02-27 | 2012-03-20 | Abl Ip Holding Llc | System and method for streetlight monitoring diagnostics |
US8442785B2 (en) | 2008-02-27 | 2013-05-14 | Abl Ip Holding Llc | System and method for streetlight monitoring diagnostics |
US8594976B2 (en) | 2008-02-27 | 2013-11-26 | Abl Ip Holding Llc | System and method for streetlight monitoring diagnostics |
EP3057072A3 (en) * | 2008-03-14 | 2016-11-09 | Hochiki Corporation | Fire-preventing terminal device |
US20130157559A1 (en) * | 2011-12-16 | 2013-06-20 | George Flammer, III | Utility grid wireless node with powered emergency device |
US8774707B2 (en) * | 2011-12-16 | 2014-07-08 | Silver Spring Networks, Inc. | Utility grid wireless node with powered emergency device |
US20190115706A1 (en) * | 2016-03-29 | 2019-04-18 | Anyware Solutions Aps | Light socket adapter with ambient sensoring means |
US10651616B2 (en) * | 2016-03-29 | 2020-05-12 | Anyware Solutions Aps | Light socket adapter with ambient sensoring means |
ITUA20162484A1 (en) * | 2016-04-11 | 2017-10-11 | Artemide Spa | LIGHTING SYSTEM |
EP3232740A1 (en) * | 2016-04-11 | 2017-10-18 | ARTEMIDE S.p.A. | Lighting system |
US10278267B2 (en) | 2016-04-11 | 2019-04-30 | Artemide S.P.A. | Lighting system |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US20090184810A1 (en) | 2009-07-23 |
KR20070116828A (en) | 2007-12-11 |
AU2006223615A2 (en) | 2006-09-21 |
CA2599896A1 (en) | 2006-09-21 |
JP2008533812A (en) | 2008-08-21 |
RU2007136954A (en) | 2009-04-20 |
US20080094189A1 (en) | 2008-04-24 |
WO2006098833A1 (en) | 2006-09-21 |
CN101288210A (en) | 2008-10-15 |
AU2006223615A1 (en) | 2006-09-21 |
US7460006B2 (en) | 2008-12-02 |
MX2007010916A (en) | 2007-10-12 |
US20060220835A1 (en) | 2006-10-05 |
EP1864356A1 (en) | 2007-12-12 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20050164630A1 (en) | Repeater unit with flourescent ballast | |
US7403097B2 (en) | Conformal repeater unit | |
US10123400B2 (en) | Wall-mountable wireless remote control device | |
US10845046B2 (en) | Connecting lighting to poles without tools | |
US9107269B2 (en) | Emergency lighting device | |
US20060006817A1 (en) | AC powered self organizing wireless node | |
US11923596B2 (en) | Controllable electrical outlet having a resonant loop antenna | |
JP2008166071A (en) | Adapter | |
EP1885163B1 (en) | Switchable induction light | |
JP2023130482A (en) | Lighting fixture | |
EP3716240B1 (en) | Wireless communication terminal, fire alarm, and management system | |
AU2006100421A4 (en) | Repeater Unit | |
JP4722817B2 (en) | Lighting device and illuminance adjustment system | |
CN218473454U (en) | Wiring-free lamp control switch based on infrared sensing technology | |
US20230098131A1 (en) | Emergency wayfinding technology | |
JP2004185978A (en) | Lighting fixture and lighting system |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: NEST LABS, INC., CALIFORNIA Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:KNOBBE, MARTENS, OLSON & BEAR LLP;REEL/FRAME:031658/0093 Effective date: 20130927 Owner name: NEST LABS, INC., CALIFORNIA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:KATES, LAWRENCE;REEL/FRAME:031658/0179 Effective date: 20130927 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: NEST LABS, INC., CALIFORNIA Free format text: CORRECTIVE ASSIGNMENT TO CORRECT THE INADVERTENT ADDITION OF U.S.PATENT NO. 8,101,892 TO THE LIST. ALL OTHER NUMBERS REMAIN AS PREVIOUSLY RECORDED ON REEL 031658 FRAME 0093. ASSIGNOR(S) HEREBY CONFIRMS THE U.S. PATENT NO. 8,101,892 IS TO BE REMOVED;ASSIGNOR:KNOBBE, MARTENS, OLSON & BEAR LLP;REEL/FRAME:033429/0848 Effective date: 20130927 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: NEST LABS, INC., CALIFORNIA Free format text: CORRECTIVE ASSIGNMENT TO CORRECT THE INADVERTENT PATENT NO. 8,101,892 TO BE REMOVED PREVIOUSLY RECORDED AT REEL: 031658 FRAME: 0179. ASSIGNOR(S) HEREBY CONFIRMS THE ASSIGNMENT;ASSIGNOR:KATES, LAWRENCE;REEL/FRAME:033452/0413 Effective date: 20130927 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: GOOGLE INC., CALIFORNIA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:NEST LABS, INC.;REEL/FRAME:033568/0693 Effective date: 20140207 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: GOOGLE LLC, CALIFORNIA Free format text: CHANGE OF NAME;ASSIGNOR:GOOGLE INC.;REEL/FRAME:044142/0357 Effective date: 20170929 |