This invention relates generally to devices for locating switches. More particularly, this invention relates to devices for locating switches during dark and/or low light conditions.
A recurring problem of modern life is to readily locate switches, and particularly a light switch, when the surrounding area is dark. Conventional techniques which have been employed to assist in locating light switches have involved illuminating the switches with low level light and/or directing a low level light to the area of the switch panel. While such devices have functioned in an advantageous fashion to facilitate location of a switch during low light conditions, a principal deficiency for such devices resides in the fact that such switches require a constant current and, therefore, are not energy efficient. Another problem with such devices is that they do entail installation time and cost, which in some cases mitigates against employing such devices. The present invention generally incorporates materials, which have the property of photoluminescence. Photoluminescence is a property in which light exposure causes the material to fluoresce and/or phosphoresce. This photoluminescence property can cause materials to glow in the dark.
Briefly stated, the invention in a preferred form is a new and improved device, which may be relatively easily mountable in conjunction with a light switch to provide a ready means for locating the switch in dark conditions through the use of photoluminescent materials.
Another object of the invention is to provide a new and improved means for readily locating a light switch during dark conditions which does not require electrical power or a battery power source since it incorporates the use of photoluminescent material.
Another object of the invention is to provide a new and improved device, which can be manufactured and installed in an efficient and low cost manner to provide a highly reliable device for locating a light switch.
The invention achieves the above stated objectives by the utilization of photoluminescent materials. The photoluminescent material may be molded or otherwise formed into structures that can be incorporated in or affixed to existing structures associated with switch assemblies. The photoluminescent material may also be painted, dyed, or otherwise coated or impregnated in or onto materials. The materials may be fixed through existing mechanical structure or adhesive means to the switch assembly.
a through 5c are front views of various designs of switch enhancement devices, each of which are installed on a light switch plate in accordance with the present invention.
a through 6f are front views of various designs, each of which are installed on a portion of a light switch plate in accordance with the present invention.
a and 7b are front views of animal designs, each of which can be installed on a portion of a light switch plate in accordance with the present invention.
a and 8b are front views of a ships wheel design and a sign design carrying a trade name on it, each of which can be installed on a portion of a light switch plate in accordance with the present invention.
With reference to the drawings wherein like numerals represent like parts throughout the figures, a switch enhancement device in accordance with the present invention may be configured in several different embodiments. The inventive switch enhancement device is easily installed to an existing light switch and functions as a switch locator by emitting a glow without requiring any electrical power.
The switch device 10 in one preferred form is a plate, which replaces or slips over a conventional switch plate 100 which may have numerous forms and functions. It should be understood that switch plate 100 as illustrated is representative of numerous forms and configurations and should not be deemed a limitation of the invention. The plate 10 is made from a photoluminescent material. The switch plate 10 includes a pair of recessed openings 12 which are spaced a distance equal to the fastener openings 102 of the conventional switch plate 100. The switch plate 100 has an enlarged central aperture 14 which is dimensioned to slip over and around the conventional light switch toggle or actuator 104. The plate may be relatively easily mounted in place by removing the conventional threaded fasteners 106 which secure the switch plate 100 in position, inserting fasteners 106 through the openings 12 and securing the fasteners 106 to the threaded anchors (not illustrated) of the switch assembly.
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A third embodiment of a light switch enhancement device in accordance with the present invention is illustrated in
The composite material which may be employed for each of the embodiments 10, 20, 30 is a plastic material which contains a photoluminescent pigment. One such pigment is marketed under the LumiNova® name by United General and Chemical Corporation, 110 Valley Brook Avenue, Lindhurst, N.J. 07071. Such a pigment is added into the plastic material. During dark conditions, the material will glow and accordingly, the light switch may be located during dark conditions.
It will be appreciated that the locator device may also be formed into various additional devices such as zipper pulls and tags (not illustrated). The products may be injection-molded products which can be manufactured in a highly cost-effective manner.
With reference to
Alternatively, the tape may also be printed with photoluminescent ink which forms a frame (with a cutout) to be placed around the switch actuator or toggle.
Alternatively, the switch plate 100 may be impregnated with photoluminescent pigments or a central rim of pigment around the inner circumferential border surrounding the switch toggle or actuator.
In one preferred embodiment the switch plate 100 may be formed from photoluminescent material or be painted or dyed with photoluminescent material.
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It should be appreciated that numerous possible designs of the light switch enhancement devices in accordance with the present invention may be provided.
This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/202,512 filed on Jul. 23, 2002 which claims the priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/307,203 filed on Jul. 23, 2001, the disclosures of which applications are incorporated herein in their entirety.
Number | Date | Country | |
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60307203 | Jul 2001 | US |
Number | Date | Country | |
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Parent | 10202512 | Jul 2002 | US |
Child | 12214755 | US |