CA2541796A1 - Led illuminated door chime push button with adjustable task light - Google Patents
Led illuminated door chime push button with adjustable task light Download PDFInfo
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- CA2541796A1 CA2541796A1 CA 2541796 CA2541796A CA2541796A1 CA 2541796 A1 CA2541796 A1 CA 2541796A1 CA 2541796 CA2541796 CA 2541796 CA 2541796 A CA2541796 A CA 2541796A CA 2541796 A1 CA2541796 A1 CA 2541796A1
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- doorbell
- assembly
- housing
- circuit
- pushbutton
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Abstract
An illuminated doorbell pushbutton assembly includes a pushbutton assembly that uses a light source, or a plurality thereof to illuminate the pushbutton. The assembly also includes a user-adjustable rotating task light that can be used to direct light to a door lock, a dark step, or to provide a light for identifying keys. A reflector is rotated through an arc to direct light to the area desired by the user. The assembly further includes an electrical circuit that enables the assembly to be installed with electro-mechanical or electronic chimes.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This international apQlication claims priority to annd benefit from, currently pending, U.S.
Patent Application Serial Number 11,099,407, filed on April 5, 2005.
FIELD OF THE IlVVENTION
The present invention relates generally to an ilfimiRated doorbell pushbutton, and, more .~._==%
specifically, to an illuminated doorbell pushbutton having a source of light to illuminate the pushbutton and having a source of light to direct illumination towards an-aree*s-preferned by aftcct,1:1umenia the user.
DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART
Traditional illuminated doorbells have numerous shortcomings. First, many illuminated doorbell pushbuttons only have a single light source fixed in place within the doorbell housing used only to illuminate the button. Second, many illuminated doorbell pushbuttons do not have an associated source of illumination that allows the user to select an area to be illuminated by the doorbell, and the projection of the illumination remains static. Therefore, there is a need for a doorbell with an illuminated doorbell pushbutton and an adjustable reflector to direct the illumination from a light source to an area preferred by the user.
This international apQlication claims priority to annd benefit from, currently pending, U.S.
Patent Application Serial Number 11,099,407, filed on April 5, 2005.
FIELD OF THE IlVVENTION
The present invention relates generally to an ilfimiRated doorbell pushbutton, and, more .~._==%
specifically, to an illuminated doorbell pushbutton having a source of light to illuminate the pushbutton and having a source of light to direct illumination towards an-aree*s-preferned by aftcct,1:1umenia the user.
DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART
Traditional illuminated doorbells have numerous shortcomings. First, many illuminated doorbell pushbuttons only have a single light source fixed in place within the doorbell housing used only to illuminate the button. Second, many illuminated doorbell pushbuttons do not have an associated source of illumination that allows the user to select an area to be illuminated by the doorbell, and the projection of the illumination remains static. Therefore, there is a need for a doorbell with an illuminated doorbell pushbutton and an adjustable reflector to direct the illumination from a light source to an area preferred by the user.
SU1VIldARY OF THE TNVENTION
In view of known deficiencies associated with earlier illuminated doorbells, there is provided in an embodiment of the instant invention an illuminated doorbell pushbutton assembly d.esigned to provide-in concert with an ifluminated pushbutton-a user-adjustable reflector that can be directed bo reflect light from a separate light source, such as an LED. This structure permits the device to be used to illuminate, for example, a door lock or keyhole, or to provide light for identifying keys, as preferred by the user. The separate light source is mounted in the housing for the devioa adjaceat a movable (i.e., rotatable) reflector mechanism, which then setectively directs the light through a fixed transparent or translucent scieen or window extending aanss a substantial pottion of tGe surface of the housing. The user, by means of a lever accessible from the outside of the housing, can rotate the reflector to a selected position adjaoent to the screen to illuminate the desired m+ea. The invention thns a'great deal of flexibility as to the areas to be illuminate4 *iillitbh/ffU4UikittgXany 1,~ im,, modifications to its mechanism or to the building structum to which it is rAounkdtdit invention can clearly illuminate not only a keyhole while providing a ctear light for the selection of the required key, but can also simultanoously maintain an illuminated doorbell pashbutton. The light can be transmiYted and projected fmm the light source in diverging rays, so as to illuminate a range of specific areas near the device.
For a better understanding of the present invention, together with other and further objects thereof, reference is made to the following descripdon, taken In conjunction with the accompanying drawings, and its scope will be pointed out in the appending claims.
In view of known deficiencies associated with earlier illuminated doorbells, there is provided in an embodiment of the instant invention an illuminated doorbell pushbutton assembly d.esigned to provide-in concert with an ifluminated pushbutton-a user-adjustable reflector that can be directed bo reflect light from a separate light source, such as an LED. This structure permits the device to be used to illuminate, for example, a door lock or keyhole, or to provide light for identifying keys, as preferred by the user. The separate light source is mounted in the housing for the devioa adjaceat a movable (i.e., rotatable) reflector mechanism, which then setectively directs the light through a fixed transparent or translucent scieen or window extending aanss a substantial pottion of tGe surface of the housing. The user, by means of a lever accessible from the outside of the housing, can rotate the reflector to a selected position adjaoent to the screen to illuminate the desired m+ea. The invention thns a'great deal of flexibility as to the areas to be illuminate4 *iillitbh/ffU4UikittgXany 1,~ im,, modifications to its mechanism or to the building structum to which it is rAounkdtdit invention can clearly illuminate not only a keyhole while providing a ctear light for the selection of the required key, but can also simultanoously maintain an illuminated doorbell pashbutton. The light can be transmiYted and projected fmm the light source in diverging rays, so as to illuminate a range of specific areas near the device.
For a better understanding of the present invention, together with other and further objects thereof, reference is made to the following descripdon, taken In conjunction with the accompanying drawings, and its scope will be pointed out in the appending claims.
BRIEF DESCRIFI'ION OF THE DRAWINGS
The aspects and advantages of the present invention will be better understood when the detailed description of the preferred embodiment is taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
F[gure 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention showing an illuminated doorbeil pushbutton assembly having an adjustable lever in a first position.
Figure 2 is a perspective view of the illuminated doorbell pushbutton assembly showing the adjustable lever in a second position.
Flgnre 3 is a front exploded perspective view of the interior of the illuminated doorbell pushbutton assembly.
Figure 4 is a rear exploded perspective view of the interior of the illuminated doorbell pusht~ttcu~ssembly. ~aw~oa aamcmoi,y.~~
Figure 5 is a side exploded view of the interior of the illuminated doorbeHpashbutCOn' :-"" '"-,fI
assembly.
Figure 6 is a planar rear view of the illuminated doorbell pushbutton assembly.
Figure 7 is a planar front view of the illuminated doorbell pushbutton assembly showing the direction of the iilumination in doited lines.
Figure 8 is a planar side view of the illuminated doorbell pushbutton assembly showing the direction of the illumination in dotted lines.
Figure 9 is a circuit diagram in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
The aspects and advantages of the present invention will be better understood when the detailed description of the preferred embodiment is taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
F[gure 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention showing an illuminated doorbeil pushbutton assembly having an adjustable lever in a first position.
Figure 2 is a perspective view of the illuminated doorbell pushbutton assembly showing the adjustable lever in a second position.
Flgnre 3 is a front exploded perspective view of the interior of the illuminated doorbell pushbutton assembly.
Figure 4 is a rear exploded perspective view of the interior of the illuminated doorbell pusht~ttcu~ssembly. ~aw~oa aamcmoi,y.~~
Figure 5 is a side exploded view of the interior of the illuminated doorbeHpashbutCOn' :-"" '"-,fI
assembly.
Figure 6 is a planar rear view of the illuminated doorbell pushbutton assembly.
Figure 7 is a planar front view of the illuminated doorbell pushbutton assembly showing the direction of the iilumination in doited lines.
Figure 8 is a planar side view of the illuminated doorbell pushbutton assembly showing the direction of the illumination in dotted lines.
Figure 9 is a circuit diagram in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIP'1'ION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIlVIENTS
Whilo this invention is susceptible of embodiments in many different forms, there are shown in the Figures and will herein be described in detail, preferred embodiments of the invention with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be oonsidered as an exemplification of the principles of the invention, and is not intended to limit the broad aspects of the invention to the embodiments illustrated.
The present invention, shown in Figs. I and 2, discloses an iilluminated doorbell pushbutton assembly (or direMional light doorbell) 10 which includes a honsing (or casing) 16 having a central aiperlure 13. The aperture 13 can be positioned in the center of the housing 16.
Disposed within the central aperttue 13 is a pushbution assembly 12, which the user presses to actuate door chimes (not shown). A doorbell housing window opening 15 is located on an edge of the housing 16, and is preferabiy arcuate along the side or edge of the housing 16.
The housing 16 may be dome-shaped, although the precise shape of the housing 16 can vary, as long as the shape can include the dooY'bell housing window opening 15, such as, for 15 example, an opening that is arcuate.
In an alternative embodiment of the present invention the housing 16 may incorporate an integral clear or translucent portion or portions therein in place of the window opening 15 such that light may be readily transmitted thezethrough. This feature of the doorbell pushbutton assembly 10 permits light to project out of the tnmslucent portion without the necessity of a separate manufacturing step to incorporate window opening 15.
Furthermore, the housing may incorporate an integral light transmitting portion of material proximate the aperture 13 to permit itlumination to pro,yect outwardly to the pushbutton assembly 12.
Whilo this invention is susceptible of embodiments in many different forms, there are shown in the Figures and will herein be described in detail, preferred embodiments of the invention with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be oonsidered as an exemplification of the principles of the invention, and is not intended to limit the broad aspects of the invention to the embodiments illustrated.
The present invention, shown in Figs. I and 2, discloses an iilluminated doorbell pushbutton assembly (or direMional light doorbell) 10 which includes a honsing (or casing) 16 having a central aiperlure 13. The aperture 13 can be positioned in the center of the housing 16.
Disposed within the central aperttue 13 is a pushbution assembly 12, which the user presses to actuate door chimes (not shown). A doorbell housing window opening 15 is located on an edge of the housing 16, and is preferabiy arcuate along the side or edge of the housing 16.
The housing 16 may be dome-shaped, although the precise shape of the housing 16 can vary, as long as the shape can include the dooY'bell housing window opening 15, such as, for 15 example, an opening that is arcuate.
In an alternative embodiment of the present invention the housing 16 may incorporate an integral clear or translucent portion or portions therein in place of the window opening 15 such that light may be readily transmitted thezethrough. This feature of the doorbell pushbutton assembly 10 permits light to project out of the tnmslucent portion without the necessity of a separate manufacturing step to incorporate window opening 15.
Furthermore, the housing may incorporate an integral light transmitting portion of material proximate the aperture 13 to permit itlumination to pro,yect outwardly to the pushbutton assembly 12.
The housing 16 shown includes a pair of countersunk openings 42, each forming a funnel shape for receiving the complementary shaped head of a screw (not shown), which allows the head of the screw to lay flush when the housing 16 is mounted to a mounting surface (not shown). The pair of eountersunlc openings 42 is diametrically opposed at each end of the arcuate doorbell housing window opening 15. The countersunk openings 42 and comesponding receiving channels 43 provide smooth and uneomplicated connection and disconnection of the housing 16 to a mounting surface, while ensuring that the housing 16 is secau+ely locked onto a mounting surfaae. Any type of fastener sufficient to affix the housing 16 to a mounting surface and support the weight of the iliurainated doorbell pushbutton assembly 10 could be utilized, however, such as for example bolts, glue, nails, and rivets.
The housing 16 is removably attached to facilita,te the replacement of a power source (not shown), which may inciude a battay, such as button cell batteries known in the art, that can supply sufficient power to the light sources to generate the desired degree and duration of ~~~r~rxxaR r~sat~~aa~~
light as discussed fiuther herein below. Altematively, the assembly 10 of the present invention may be powered from the secondary of an existing transformer, as is common in many door chime systems.
Now, referring to Fig. 3, there is shown a front exploded perspective view of the interior of the illuminated doorbeil pushbutton assembly 10. A circuit board 34 is disposed within the doorbell housing 16. The circuit board 34 has a top side 34a, which faces toward the pushbutton assembly 12, and a bottom side 34b (shown more clearly in Figs. 4 and 5), which faces away from the pushbutton assembly 12. Mounted on the circuit board top side 34a is a funt light source 26 operatively aligned with the central aperture 13 and the pushbutton assembly 12. The first light source 26 preferWy projects illumination up toward the cantral aperture 13. The first light source 26 illuminates the pushbutton assembly 12, which may be ciear, txansparent, or translucent, such that i{lumination from the first light sotuce 26 projacts titrough the pushbutton 12 to enhance visibility of the doorbell pushbutton 12 in a dark environment.
Now, referring to Fig. 4, there is shown a rear exploded perspective view of the interior of the illuminated doorbefl assembly 10. Mounted on the circuit board bottom side 34b is a second light source support 44 which cradles a second light source 28, which generally projects illumination toward the arcuate doorbell hau.cing window opening 15. More specifically, ... .....
illumination is projected toward an area on the exterior of ft illuminated doorbell pushbutton assembly 10 as chosen by the user by moving means for ieflecting illumin.ation 24, such as for example an adjustable (rotatable or movable) reflector, mirror, or lens, described in more detail below.
The illuminated doorbell pushbutton assembly 10 also includes a base (or back cover) 36 which is mounted to a mounting surface. The base 36 has a rear wall 38,disposcetiadjacent to w<~ ~sr :,~ tai. ;
a mounring surfaee. 'fhe base 36 also includes a window 14 (shown znemw6wAtydneFig. 5) 15 which aligns with the doorbell housing window opening 15 of the housing 16 when the illuminated doorbell pushbutton assembly 10 is assembled. The window 14 is preferably arcuate and in operative aiignment with the arcaate doorbell housing wimdow opening 15.
The window 14 may be constructed of a clear, transparent, or translueent material such as plastic or glass. 'ibe adjustable (or rotatable) reflector 24 preferably has a chrome- or mirror-like finish, which reflects the illumination projecting from the second light source 28.
The adjustable reflector 24 rotates or pivots about an axis 24a formed by a swivel hinge 22a which rotates about a swivel hinge shaft 22b (more clearly shown in Figs. 3 and 5), which projects up from the base 36 into the interior of the housing 16. The swivel hinge 22a and swivel hinge shaft 22b facilitate the movement of Nte adjustable reflector 24 about the axis 24a and through the range of the arc a(shown more clearly in Fig. 6) of the arcuate doorbell housing window opening 15 and the arcuate window 14. The range of the arc a may be, for example, approximately 75 . A lever 18 (shown more clearly in Figs. 3 and 5) projects outwardly from the adjustable reflector 24 and protrudes through the arcuate doorbell housing window opening 15 in such a way to avoid interference with the arcuate window 14. The lever 18 is shown in the Figures to protrude through the arcuate doorbell housing window opening 15 above the arcuate window 14, although it is feasible that the lever 18 could be positioned on the opposite side of the adjustable reflector 24 and protrude through~the arcuate doorbelt housing window opening 15 below the ar+cuate window 14, or in other positions.
Figs. 1, 2, and 6 illustrate the movement of the lever 18. In Fig. 1, the lever 18 is shown in a first position. In Fig. 2, the lever 18 is shown in a second position. Fig. 6 shows the range of movement of the lever 18 through the arc a to provide selective illumination of-a-rangc-of sp~cific areas near the illuminated doorbell assembly 10. The user c .~~
18 to move the adjustable reflector 24 at its swivel hinge 22a about the swivIltt%saeha6tÃYny :
22b. The adjustable reflector 24 gathers, focuses, reflects, and projects illumination fivm the second light source 28. The lever 18 and adjustable reflector 24 direct light to areas remote from the housing 16, such as toward a door lock or kcyhole, or to provide a light for identifying keys, as necessary.
The first light source 26 and second light source 28, preferably light emitting diodes (LEDs), can be any commonly available bulb, for exam.ple an incandescent bulb, as long as each light source provides enough light to suff'iciently illuminate, respectively, the push button assembly 12 and a target area as selected by the user. Figs. 7 and 8 illustrate the projected illumination of the light sources 26,28. Specifically, Fig. 7 illustrates in dotted lines the projected illumination of the second light source 28 with the lever 18 in a central position in the arc a.
The housing 16 is removably attached to facilita,te the replacement of a power source (not shown), which may inciude a battay, such as button cell batteries known in the art, that can supply sufficient power to the light sources to generate the desired degree and duration of ~~~r~rxxaR r~sat~~aa~~
light as discussed fiuther herein below. Altematively, the assembly 10 of the present invention may be powered from the secondary of an existing transformer, as is common in many door chime systems.
Now, referring to Fig. 3, there is shown a front exploded perspective view of the interior of the illuminated doorbeil pushbutton assembly 10. A circuit board 34 is disposed within the doorbell housing 16. The circuit board 34 has a top side 34a, which faces toward the pushbutton assembly 12, and a bottom side 34b (shown more clearly in Figs. 4 and 5), which faces away from the pushbutton assembly 12. Mounted on the circuit board top side 34a is a funt light source 26 operatively aligned with the central aperture 13 and the pushbutton assembly 12. The first light source 26 preferWy projects illumination up toward the cantral aperture 13. The first light source 26 illuminates the pushbutton assembly 12, which may be ciear, txansparent, or translucent, such that i{lumination from the first light sotuce 26 projacts titrough the pushbutton 12 to enhance visibility of the doorbell pushbutton 12 in a dark environment.
Now, referring to Fig. 4, there is shown a rear exploded perspective view of the interior of the illuminated doorbefl assembly 10. Mounted on the circuit board bottom side 34b is a second light source support 44 which cradles a second light source 28, which generally projects illumination toward the arcuate doorbell hau.cing window opening 15. More specifically, ... .....
illumination is projected toward an area on the exterior of ft illuminated doorbell pushbutton assembly 10 as chosen by the user by moving means for ieflecting illumin.ation 24, such as for example an adjustable (rotatable or movable) reflector, mirror, or lens, described in more detail below.
The illuminated doorbell pushbutton assembly 10 also includes a base (or back cover) 36 which is mounted to a mounting surface. The base 36 has a rear wall 38,disposcetiadjacent to w<~ ~sr :,~ tai. ;
a mounring surfaee. 'fhe base 36 also includes a window 14 (shown znemw6wAtydneFig. 5) 15 which aligns with the doorbell housing window opening 15 of the housing 16 when the illuminated doorbell pushbutton assembly 10 is assembled. The window 14 is preferably arcuate and in operative aiignment with the arcaate doorbell housing wimdow opening 15.
The window 14 may be constructed of a clear, transparent, or translueent material such as plastic or glass. 'ibe adjustable (or rotatable) reflector 24 preferably has a chrome- or mirror-like finish, which reflects the illumination projecting from the second light source 28.
The adjustable reflector 24 rotates or pivots about an axis 24a formed by a swivel hinge 22a which rotates about a swivel hinge shaft 22b (more clearly shown in Figs. 3 and 5), which projects up from the base 36 into the interior of the housing 16. The swivel hinge 22a and swivel hinge shaft 22b facilitate the movement of Nte adjustable reflector 24 about the axis 24a and through the range of the arc a(shown more clearly in Fig. 6) of the arcuate doorbell housing window opening 15 and the arcuate window 14. The range of the arc a may be, for example, approximately 75 . A lever 18 (shown more clearly in Figs. 3 and 5) projects outwardly from the adjustable reflector 24 and protrudes through the arcuate doorbell housing window opening 15 in such a way to avoid interference with the arcuate window 14. The lever 18 is shown in the Figures to protrude through the arcuate doorbell housing window opening 15 above the arcuate window 14, although it is feasible that the lever 18 could be positioned on the opposite side of the adjustable reflector 24 and protrude through~the arcuate doorbelt housing window opening 15 below the ar+cuate window 14, or in other positions.
Figs. 1, 2, and 6 illustrate the movement of the lever 18. In Fig. 1, the lever 18 is shown in a first position. In Fig. 2, the lever 18 is shown in a second position. Fig. 6 shows the range of movement of the lever 18 through the arc a to provide selective illumination of-a-rangc-of sp~cific areas near the illuminated doorbell assembly 10. The user c .~~
18 to move the adjustable reflector 24 at its swivel hinge 22a about the swivIltt%saeha6tÃYny :
22b. The adjustable reflector 24 gathers, focuses, reflects, and projects illumination fivm the second light source 28. The lever 18 and adjustable reflector 24 direct light to areas remote from the housing 16, such as toward a door lock or kcyhole, or to provide a light for identifying keys, as necessary.
The first light source 26 and second light source 28, preferably light emitting diodes (LEDs), can be any commonly available bulb, for exam.ple an incandescent bulb, as long as each light source provides enough light to suff'iciently illuminate, respectively, the push button assembly 12 and a target area as selected by the user. Figs. 7 and 8 illustrate the projected illumination of the light sources 26,28. Specifically, Fig. 7 illustrates in dotted lines the projected illumination of the second light source 28 with the lever 18 in a central position in the arc a.
Also, Fig. 8 iilustrates in dotted iines the projected illumination of both the first light source 26 and the second light source 28.
Referring now to Fig. 9, and in aocordance with a consttuctod embodiment of the present invention, a circuit 50 for activating a door chime 1 includes pushbutton 12 having a first terminal Jl connected between an electrical power source 2 and a second terminal J2, which is in turn connected to the input terminal of a door chime 3. While one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that a wide variety of power sonrces may be employed in conjunctiotv.withrWa,f the present invention, for clarity of discussion the power source 2 shalt be the secondary winding of a transformer supplied by 120VAC, producing, for example, 20VAC.
When pushbutton 12 is depressed current is conducted to chime I thereby initiating the ringing of the chime through a conventional electro-mechanical actuation system (not shown) as is known in the art. Circuit 50 further comprises a pair of light sources 26 and 28 respectively, shown in Fig. 9 as light emitting diodes D3 and D4. A diode DI
is cam-edte&~:
between the transformer 2 and a pair of voltage dividers, resistors RI, R2 and R3, R4wmvft2isndw-t-k~
respectively to provide power to LEDs D3 and D4 through one-half of the alternating current cycle. This feature of the present invention enables LEDs D3 and D4 to be powered to provide illumination for the pushbutton assembly.
Voltage divider resistors RI, R2 and R3, R4 may be suitably sized to provide a satisfactory level of illumination depending on the operating characteristics of the L.EDs selected. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that a wide variety of conventional incandescent lamps may also be employed as light sources 26,28 in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention.
The circuit 50 of Fig. 9 further includes a jumper block J3 wherein a jumper may be placed across terminals 1 and 2 thereof in order to electrically couple diode D2 in the circuit 50, in parallel with pushbutton 12. The purpose of this feature of the present invention is to provide power to chime 1 during the time period where pushbiitton 12 is not depressed.
'17iis feaRture of tSve invention perniits the doorbetl pushbutton assembly 10 to be compatible with many eiectronic chime systems presently in use. Where an eiectromechanical cirime is employed, the jumper can be placed on terminals 2 and 3 of jumper block J3, thereby eleetrically decoupling diode DZ from the circuit $0. Additionaiiy, a switch or dip switch may readiiy be empioyed in pisoe of jumper bfocic J3 in order to quickly and easiiy couple or decouple diode D2 from the circuit 50. Accordingly, it may be readily seen that the present invention may be used with a variety of known-in-the art chime systems, simply by seiecking the appropriate jumper (or switch) position.
In a yet further embodiment of the present invention, the circuit 50 of Fig. 9 may be installed in concert with a non-illuminated pushbuiton, without the necessity of using diode DI to supply power to the voltage dividers to iiiunninate latmps as disciosed hereeinabove. Sn this embodiment of the inventim only diode D2 is requirced, in parailel vrith pushbuttoa 12, to pravide power to chime 12 during the timex period where pushbutton 12 is not depressed. ry~ m r~~~~
Diode D2 is electrically coupled to circuit 50 by jumper J3, or alternatively a switch, such that it may be electricatiy removed from circuit 50 in the event an electromechanical chime is employed.
While there have been described what are believed to be the prefermd embodiments of the present invention, thoso sidlled in the art witt recognize that other and further changes and modifica#ions may bc made thereto without dopsrting from the spirit of the invention, and it is intended to claim all such changes and modifications as fa11 wi%in the true scope of the invention.
Referring now to Fig. 9, and in aocordance with a consttuctod embodiment of the present invention, a circuit 50 for activating a door chime 1 includes pushbutton 12 having a first terminal Jl connected between an electrical power source 2 and a second terminal J2, which is in turn connected to the input terminal of a door chime 3. While one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that a wide variety of power sonrces may be employed in conjunctiotv.withrWa,f the present invention, for clarity of discussion the power source 2 shalt be the secondary winding of a transformer supplied by 120VAC, producing, for example, 20VAC.
When pushbutton 12 is depressed current is conducted to chime I thereby initiating the ringing of the chime through a conventional electro-mechanical actuation system (not shown) as is known in the art. Circuit 50 further comprises a pair of light sources 26 and 28 respectively, shown in Fig. 9 as light emitting diodes D3 and D4. A diode DI
is cam-edte&~:
between the transformer 2 and a pair of voltage dividers, resistors RI, R2 and R3, R4wmvft2isndw-t-k~
respectively to provide power to LEDs D3 and D4 through one-half of the alternating current cycle. This feature of the present invention enables LEDs D3 and D4 to be powered to provide illumination for the pushbutton assembly.
Voltage divider resistors RI, R2 and R3, R4 may be suitably sized to provide a satisfactory level of illumination depending on the operating characteristics of the L.EDs selected. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that a wide variety of conventional incandescent lamps may also be employed as light sources 26,28 in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention.
The circuit 50 of Fig. 9 further includes a jumper block J3 wherein a jumper may be placed across terminals 1 and 2 thereof in order to electrically couple diode D2 in the circuit 50, in parallel with pushbutton 12. The purpose of this feature of the present invention is to provide power to chime 1 during the time period where pushbiitton 12 is not depressed.
'17iis feaRture of tSve invention perniits the doorbetl pushbutton assembly 10 to be compatible with many eiectronic chime systems presently in use. Where an eiectromechanical cirime is employed, the jumper can be placed on terminals 2 and 3 of jumper block J3, thereby eleetrically decoupling diode DZ from the circuit $0. Additionaiiy, a switch or dip switch may readiiy be empioyed in pisoe of jumper bfocic J3 in order to quickly and easiiy couple or decouple diode D2 from the circuit 50. Accordingly, it may be readily seen that the present invention may be used with a variety of known-in-the art chime systems, simply by seiecking the appropriate jumper (or switch) position.
In a yet further embodiment of the present invention, the circuit 50 of Fig. 9 may be installed in concert with a non-illuminated pushbuiton, without the necessity of using diode DI to supply power to the voltage dividers to iiiunninate latmps as disciosed hereeinabove. Sn this embodiment of the inventim only diode D2 is requirced, in parailel vrith pushbuttoa 12, to pravide power to chime 12 during the timex period where pushbutton 12 is not depressed. ry~ m r~~~~
Diode D2 is electrically coupled to circuit 50 by jumper J3, or alternatively a switch, such that it may be electricatiy removed from circuit 50 in the event an electromechanical chime is employed.
While there have been described what are believed to be the prefermd embodiments of the present invention, thoso sidlled in the art witt recognize that other and further changes and modifica#ions may bc made thereto without dopsrting from the spirit of the invention, and it is intended to claim all such changes and modifications as fa11 wi%in the true scope of the invention.
Claims (31)
1. A doorbell assembly comprising:
a doorbell housing having first and second apertures therein;
a doorbell pushbutton assembly having a portion capable of transmission of light, said assembly disposed within the first aperture of said housing; and a light source disposed within said housing to provide illumination to said pushbutton assembly and the second aperture.
a doorbell housing having first and second apertures therein;
a doorbell pushbutton assembly having a portion capable of transmission of light, said assembly disposed within the first aperture of said housing; and a light source disposed within said housing to provide illumination to said pushbutton assembly and the second aperture.
2. The doorbell assembly as claimed in claim 1 wherein the first aperture in said housing is centrally located.
3. The doorbell assembly as claimed in claim 1 wherein the second aperture is disposed to provide illumination in a direction exclusive of said pushbutton assembly.
4. The doorbell assembly as claimed in claim 1 further comprising:
a window disposed in said doorbell housing covering said second aperture.
a window disposed in said doorbell housing covering said second aperture.
5. The doorbell assembly as claimed in claim 4 wherein the second aperture in said housing and said window are arcuate.
6. A doorbell assembly as claimed in claim 1 further comprising:
a second light source disposed in said doorbell housing to provide illumination that projects through the second aperture thereof.
a second light source disposed in said doorbell housing to provide illumination that projects through the second aperture thereof.
7. The doorbell assembly of claim 6 wherein said first and said second light sources are light emitting diodes.
8. The doorbell assembly of claim 6 wherein said first and said second light sources are incandescent lamps.
9. The doorbell assembly of claim 4 further comprising:
an adjustable reflector secured within said doorbell housing for reflecting illumination from said second light source, said adjustable reflector including a lever depending therefrom for aligning said reflector to project illumination through said window.
an adjustable reflector secured within said doorbell housing for reflecting illumination from said second light source, said adjustable reflector including a lever depending therefrom for aligning said reflector to project illumination through said window.
10. A doorbell assembly comprising:
a doorbell housing having an aperture therein, a first light transmitting portion proximate said aperture and a second light transmitting portion disposed therein;
a doorbell pushbutton assembly disposed within the aperture of said housing;
a first light source disposed within said housing to project illumination to the light transmitting portion of said housing to illuminate said pushbutton assembly;
a second light source disposed in said doorbell housing to provide illumination that projects through the second light transmitting portion thereof; and an adjustable reflector secured within said doorbell housing for reflecting illumination from said second light source, said adjustable reflector including a lever depending therefrom for aligning said reflector to project illumination through said second light transmitting portion of said doorbell housing.
a doorbell housing having an aperture therein, a first light transmitting portion proximate said aperture and a second light transmitting portion disposed therein;
a doorbell pushbutton assembly disposed within the aperture of said housing;
a first light source disposed within said housing to project illumination to the light transmitting portion of said housing to illuminate said pushbutton assembly;
a second light source disposed in said doorbell housing to provide illumination that projects through the second light transmitting portion thereof; and an adjustable reflector secured within said doorbell housing for reflecting illumination from said second light source, said adjustable reflector including a lever depending therefrom for aligning said reflector to project illumination through said second light transmitting portion of said doorbell housing.
11. A doorbell assembly as claimed in claim 10 wherein illumination from said second light source projects through the second light transmitting portion to illuminate an area proximate said doorbell assembly.
12. A doorbell assembly comprising:
a doorbell housing having an aperture therein, a first light transmitting portion proximate thereto, and a second light transmitting portion therein;
a doorbell pushbutton assembly positioned within the aperture of said housing thereby enabling actuation of said pushbutton;
a light source positioned within said doorbell housing to project illumination to the first light transmitting portion of said housing; and an adjustable reflector positioned within said doorbell housing for reflecting illumination from said light source through said second light transmitting portion of said doorbell housing.
a doorbell housing having an aperture therein, a first light transmitting portion proximate thereto, and a second light transmitting portion therein;
a doorbell pushbutton assembly positioned within the aperture of said housing thereby enabling actuation of said pushbutton;
a light source positioned within said doorbell housing to project illumination to the first light transmitting portion of said housing; and an adjustable reflector positioned within said doorbell housing for reflecting illumination from said light source through said second light transmitting portion of said doorbell housing.
13. A doorbell assembly as claimed in claim 12 comprising:
a lever depending from said adjustable reflector for aligning said reflector to project illumination through said second light transmitting portion of said doorbell housing at a plurality of angles.
a lever depending from said adjustable reflector for aligning said reflector to project illumination through said second light transmitting portion of said doorbell housing at a plurality of angles.
14. A circuit for an illuminated doorbell assembly having a source of electrical power and a chime assembly responsive to an electrical signal comprising:
a light source for providing illumination to said doorbell assembly;
a first diode between said source of electrical power and said light source to provide electrical power to said at least one light source; and a doorbell pushbutton between said source of electrical power and said chime assembly for supplying electrical power thereto when depressed.
a light source for providing illumination to said doorbell assembly;
a first diode between said source of electrical power and said light source to provide electrical power to said at least one light source; and a doorbell pushbutton between said source of electrical power and said chime assembly for supplying electrical power thereto when depressed.
15. A circuit for an illuminated doorbell assembly as claimed in claim 14 further comprising:
a second diode in parallel with said doorbell pushbutton to supply electrical power to said chime when said doorbell pushbutton is not depressed.
a second diode in parallel with said doorbell pushbutton to supply electrical power to said chime when said doorbell pushbutton is not depressed.
16. A circuit for an illuminated doorbell assembly as claimed in claim 15 further comprising.
means for electrically decoupling said second diode from said circuit.
means for electrically decoupling said second diode from said circuit.
17. A circuit for an illuminated doorbell assembly as claimed in claim 16 wherein said means for decoupling said second diode from said circuit comprises a jumper terminal.
18. A circuit for an illuminated doorbell assembly as claimed in claim 16 wherein said means for decoupling said second diode from said circuit comprises a switch.
19. A circuit for an illuminated doorbell assembly as claimed in claim 14 wherein said light source is a light emitting diode.
20. A circuit for an illuminated doorbell assembly having a source of electrical power and a chime assembly responsive to an electrical signal comprising:
a plurality of light sources for providing illumination to said doorbell assembly;
a first diode interposed between said source of electrical power and said plurality of light sources to provide electrical power thereto; and a doorbell pushbutton between said source of electrical power and said chime assembly for supplying electrical power thereto when depressed.
a plurality of light sources for providing illumination to said doorbell assembly;
a first diode interposed between said source of electrical power and said plurality of light sources to provide electrical power thereto; and a doorbell pushbutton between said source of electrical power and said chime assembly for supplying electrical power thereto when depressed.
21. A circuit for an illuminated doorbell assembly as claimed in claim 20 further comprising:
a second diode in parallel with said doorbell pushbutton to supply electrical power to said chime when said doorbell pushbutton is not depressed.
a second diode in parallel with said doorbell pushbutton to supply electrical power to said chime when said doorbell pushbutton is not depressed.
22. A circuit for an illuminated doorbell assembly as claimed in claim 21 further comprising:
means for electrically decoupling said second diode from said circuit.
means for electrically decoupling said second diode from said circuit.
23. A circuit for an illuminated doorbell assembly as claimed in claim 22 wherein said means for decoupling said second diode from said circuit comprises a jumper terminal.
24. A circuit for an illuminated doorbell assembly as claimed in claim 22 wherein said means for decoupling said second diode from said circuit comprises a switch.
25. A circuit for an illuminated doorbell assembly as claimed in claim 22 further comprising a plurality of voltage dividers in series with said plurality of light sources.
26. A circuit for an illuminated doorbell assembly as claimed in claim 20 wherein said plurality of light sources are light emitting diodes.
27. A circuit for an illuminated doorbell assembly as claimed in claim 20 wherein said plurality of light sources are incandescent lamps.
28. A circuit for an illuminated doorbell assembly having a source of electrical power and a chime assembly responsive to an electrical signal comprising:
a light source for providing illumination to said doorbell assembly;
a diode disposed between said source of electrical power and said light source to provide electrical power to said at least one light source;
a doorbell pushbutton between said source of electrical power and said chime assembly for supplying electrical power thereto when depressed to actuate chime assembly.
a light source for providing illumination to said doorbell assembly;
a diode disposed between said source of electrical power and said light source to provide electrical power to said at least one light source;
a doorbell pushbutton between said source of electrical power and said chime assembly for supplying electrical power thereto when depressed to actuate chime assembly.
29. A circuit for doorbell assembly having a source of electrical power and a chime assembly responsive to an electrical signal comprising:
a doorbell pushbutton between said source of electrical power and said chime assembly for supplying electrical power thereto when depressed;
a diode in parallel with said doorbell pushbutton to supply electrical power to said chime when said doorbell pushbutton is not depressed; and means for electrically decoupling said second diode from said circuit.
a doorbell pushbutton between said source of electrical power and said chime assembly for supplying electrical power thereto when depressed;
a diode in parallel with said doorbell pushbutton to supply electrical power to said chime when said doorbell pushbutton is not depressed; and means for electrically decoupling said second diode from said circuit.
30. A circuit for an illuminated doorbell assembly as claimed in claim 29 wherein said means for decoupling said diode from said circuit comprises a jumper terminal.
31. A circuit for an illuminated doorbell assembly as claimed in claim 30 wherein said means for decoupling said diode from said circuit comprises a switch.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US9940706A | 2006-04-05 | 2006-04-05 | |
| US11/099,407 | 2006-04-05 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2541796A1 true CA2541796A1 (en) | 2007-10-05 |
Family
ID=38561283
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2541796 Abandoned CA2541796A1 (en) | 2006-04-05 | 2006-04-05 | Led illuminated door chime push button with adjustable task light |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2541796A1 (en) |
-
2006
- 2006-04-05 CA CA 2541796 patent/CA2541796A1/en not_active Abandoned
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| FZDE | Dead |
Effective date: 20130405 |