Abstract Method and apparatus for controlling energization and deenergization of an electrical load circuit such as a floodlighting circuit utilizing a control system that is responsive to predetermined conditions of atmospheric light. A timing sequence may be initiated upon the occurrence of a predetermined degree of morning atmospheric light which timing sequence functions to deenergize the load circuit at the end of a predetermined period of time measured from dawn, the load circuit being previously energized responsive to predetermined decrease in the amount of evening atmospheric light. The timing sequence may be variable, responsive to variations in the length of daylight hours, and may function to achieve deenergization of the load circuit at approximately the same time each night, thereby precluding unnecessary operation of the load circuit during certain periods during the year.
A light responsive electrical contact actuating device, comprising: a. A supporting housing; b. a heat-responsive plate-like bimetallic element carried by the housing, said element including a temperature-movable cutaway blade portion and a first electrical contact carried by the blade portion; c. a resistor, having flat top and bottom surfaces, mounted on said bimetallic element and movable with the blade portion thereof; d. an electrically conductive spring fastened to the supporting housing and in spring-biasing, slidable electrical contact with said resistor; e. a second electrical contact, fixedly connected to the housing; and f. a photoelectric cell connected in series with said resistor and controlling current therethrough in response to conditions of light and darkness.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
113 words
A light responsive electrical contact actuating device, comprising: a. A supporting housing; b. a heat-responsive plate-like bimetallic element carried by the housing, said element including a temperature-movable cutaway blade portion and a first electrical contact carried by the blade portion; c. a resistor, having flat top and bottom surfaces, mounted on said bimetallic element and movable with the blade portion thereof; d. an electrically conductive spring fastened to the supporting housing and in spring-biasing, slidable electrical contact with said resistor; e. a second electrical contact, fixedly connected to the housing; and f. a photoelectric cell connected in series with said resistor and controlling current therethrough in response to conditions of light and darkness.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
68 words
The device of claim 1: a. Wherein said contact means comprises a plurality of electrical contacts insulated from and carried by said arm and adapted for contacting engagement with a plurality of associated contact elements; and b. further comprising flexible insulated electrical braid connected to said electrical contacts and supplying current thereto, said electrical braid being looped to allow unrestricted movement of said arm of said bimetallic element.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
47 words
The device of claim 1: a. Wherein said spring has a bifurcated end; and b. further comprising a tapered low-friction button, a portion of the button being seated in the resistor and a portion thereof being engaged between the bifurcations of the bifurcated end of the spring.