Automatic switch dimmer device
US6275163A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 24, 1998 |
| Grant date | Aug 14, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 24, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02B20/40
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
An occupancy sensor and an automatic dimmer are connected in series with a light source. The detection of motion in the viewing area of the sensor starts the automatic dimmer which moves from its minimum brightness level to its maximum brightness level. One embodiment of the invention includes a key which can be operated to stop the automatic dimmer at some brightness level below the maximum brightness level which is reached if the key is not operated. A second embodiment provides a presetting device whereby the brightness level can be preset. When all motion in the viewing area ceases the automatic dimmer returns the brightness level to the minimum level at a slow rate.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.