GB995568A - Photoelectric switch adapter for lanterns, luminaires and the like - Google Patents

Abstract

995, 568. Photo-electric plug and socket adapters. SECURITON A.G. SECURITON S.A. Nov. 23, 1962, No.44470/62. Heading G1A. [Also in Division H2] The invention relates to a double-ended plug and socket adapter containing a photo-electric cell 90 for switching a lamp or other appliance in response to changes in ambient light and comprises a cylindrical casing 22 having an extension 26 at one end containing a socket 23 for receiving a power consuming appliance (Fig. 1 not shown), a plug 32 carried at the other end for mounting in a power supply socket, the plug and casing being rotatable with respect to each other, and the casing having a lateral opening through which the photo-electric cell 90 is exposed to ambient light. As shown in Fig. 12 the cell 90 is connected in series with the heater coil 82 of a thermal relay having a bimetallic strip 76 which when heated by high current in the coil 82 due to decreased resistance of the cell 90 when the ambient light intensity is high, opens a switch 70 and extinguishes an appliance or lamp 28 fitted to the socket 23. The thermal relay may be replaced by an electro-magnetic relay. Across the opening 99a of the casing is a filter disk 38 which is transparent only to light of the wavelengths of daylight. The plug 32 is fitted to a member 29 which is rotatable with respect to the casing 22 so that the opening 99a to the photo-cell 90 may be pointed in the most suitable direction e.g. to the North. A bar having projecting fingers 67 is secured in the casing to protect the photo-cell 90 from heat from the heater coil 82. The casing is provided with holes 21 to assist in the ventilation of its interior. Specification 995,569 is referred to.