US4134043A
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Lighting circuits
Assignee: Esquire Inc
•
Filing: 1976-08-09
•
Granted: 1979-01-09
•
Expires: 1996-08-09
Abstract
Abstract Circuits are disclosed for use in a gaseous-discharge lamp lighting system which provide starting pulses to the lamp and/or a source of auxiliary light. One circuit provides starting pulses and/or auxiliary light until the gaseous-discharge lamp approaches its normal operating condition, while other circuits terminate these functions once the gaseous-discharge lamp ignites.
Inventors
- 👤 Eric L. H. Nuver
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-10-27 10:06
CPC Classifications
H; H05; H05B; H05B41/00; H05B41/14; H05B41/16; H05B41/20; H05B41/23; H05B41/231; Y; Y10; Y10S; Y10S315/00; Y10S315/05
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 134
Claim 1
Independent Claim
210 words
In a gaseous-discharge lamp lighting system including a ballast having line and common leads for receiving an AC input voltage, a lamp lead, and a starter winding, and a gaseous-discharge lamp which is operatively connected between the lamp and common leads of the ballast, the improvement comprising: A starter circuit for generating starting pulses to the gaseous-discharge lamp, which starter circuit comprises: (a) a first resistive element and a first capacitor operatively connected to form a first series combination, said first series combination operatively connected to the ballast; (b) a second capacitor and a second resistive element operatively connected to form a second series combination, said second series combination operatively connected to the ballast; (c) a switch operatively connected in series with the starter winding, said switch and starter winding operatively connected in parallel with the second capacitor, the closing of the switch being determined by the voltage across the first capacitor and the closure of the switch enabling the second capacitor to discharge through the starter winding; and (d) a sensing circuit, including a reactance, which is operatively connected between the gaseous-discharge lamp and the junction between the first resistive element and first capacitor for preventing closures of the switch when the gaseous-discharge lamp approaches its normal operating condition.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
210 words
In a gaseous-discharge lamp lighting system including a ballast having line and common leads for receiving an AC input voltage, a lamp lead, and a starter winding, and a gaseous-discharge lamp which is operatively connected between the lamp and common leads of the ballast, the improvement comprising: A starter circuit for generating starting pulses to the gaseous-discharge lamp, which starter circuit comprises: (a) a first resistive element and a first capacitor operatively connected to form a first series combination, said first series combination operatively connected to the ballast; (b) a second capacitor and a second resistive element operatively connected to form a second series combination, said second series combination operatively connected to the ballast; (c) a switch operatively connected in series with the starter winding, said switch and starter winding operatively connected in parallel with the second capacitor, the closing of the switch being determined by the voltage across the first capacitor and the closure of the switch enabling the second capacitor to discharge through the starter winding; and (d) a sensing circuit, including a reactance, which is operatively connected between the gaseous-discharge lamp and the junction between the first resistive element and first capacitor for preventing closures of the switch when the gaseous-discharge lamp approaches its normal operating condition.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
14 words
The starting circuit of claim 1, wherein the second resistive element comprises a resistor.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 1, wherein the second resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
17 words
The starting circuit of claim 1, wherein the second resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 1, wherein the switch comprises an SCR and a diac.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
14 words
The starting circuit of claim 5, wherein the second resistive element comprises a resistor.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 5, wherein the second resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
17 words
The starting circuit of claim 5, wherein the second resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 1, wherein the switch comprises a triac and a diac.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
14 words
The starting circuit of claim 9, wherein the second resistive element comprises a resistor.
Claim 12
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 9, wherein the second resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 13
Dependent Claim
17 words
The starting circuit of claim 9, wherein the second resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 14
Dependent Claim
254 words
In a gaseous-discharge lamp lighting system including a lead-peaked regulating type ballast having a primary winding providing the line and common leads for receiving an AC input voltage, having a voltage tap, having a secondary winding with the first end thereof providing the lamp lead of the ballast, having a starter winding, and having a ballast capacitor, and a gaseous-discharge lamp, the gaseous-discharge lamp, ballast capacitor, and secondary winding of the ballast operatively connected in a serial arrangement between the voltage tap of the primary and the common lead of the ballast, A starter circuit for generating starting pulses to the gaseous-discharge lamp, which starter circuit comprises: (a) a first resistive element and a first capacitor operatively connected in series between the voltage tap and the common lead of the ballast; (b) a second capacitor and a second resistive element operatively connected in series between the voltage tap and the common lead of the ballast; (c) a switch which is operatively connected in series with the starter winding, said switch and starter winding operatively connected in parallel with the second capacitor, the closing of the switch being determined by the voltage across the first capacitor and the closure of the switch enabling the second capacitor to discharge through the starter winding; and (d) a sensing circuit, including a reactance, operatively connected between one terminal of the ballast capacitor and the junction between the first resistive element and first capacitor for preventing closures of the switch when the gaseous-discharge lamp approaches its normal operating condition.
Claim 15
Dependent Claim
254 words
In a gaseous-discharge lamp lighting system including a lead-peaked regulating type ballast having a primary winding providing the line and common leads for receiving an AC input voltage, having a voltage tap, having a secondary winding with the first end thereof providing the lamp lead of the ballast, having a starter winding, and having a ballast capacitor, and a gaseous-discharge lamp, the gaseous-discharge lamp, ballast capacitor, and secondary winding of the ballast operatively connected in a serial arrangement between the voltage tap of the primary and the common lead of the ballast, A starter circuit for generating starting pulses to the gaseous-discharge lamp, which starter circuit comprises: (a) a first resistive element and a first capacitor operatively connected in series between the voltage tap and the common lead of the ballast; (b) a second capacitor and a second resistive element operatively connected in series between the voltage tap and the common lead of the ballast; (c) a switch which is operatively connected in series with the starter winding, said switch and starter winding operatively connected in parallel with the second capacitor, the closing of the switch being determined by the voltage across the first capacitor and the closure of the switch enabling the second capacitor to discharge through the starter winding; and (d) a sensing circuit, including a reactance, operatively connected between one terminal of the ballast capacitor and the junction between the first resistive element and first capacitor for preventing closures of the switch when the gaseous-discharge lamp approaches its normal operating condition.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim
14 words
The starting circuit of claim 13, wherein the second resistive element comprises a resistor.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 13, wherein the second resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim
17 words
The starting circuit of claim 13, wherein the second resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 19
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 13, wherein the switch comprises an SCR and a diac.
Claim 20
Dependent Claim
14 words
The starting circuit of claim 17, wherein the second resistive element comprises a resistor.
Claim 21
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 17, wherein the second resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 22
Dependent Claim
17 words
The starting circuit of claim 17, wherein the second resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 23
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 13, wherein the switch comprises a triac and a diac.
Claim 24
Dependent Claim
14 words
The starting circuit of claim 21, wherein the second resistive element comprises a resistor.
Claim 25
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 21, wherein the second resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 26
Dependent Claim
17 words
The starting circuit of claim 21, wherein the second resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 27
Dependent Claim
225 words
A starter circuit for use in a gaseous-discharge lamp lighting system, said system including a ballast having line and common leads for receiving an AC input voltage, a starter winding and a lamp lead, and a gaseous-discharge lamp which is operatively connected between the lamp and common leads of the ballast, said starter circuit comprising: (a) a first resistive element and a first capacitor operatively connected to form a first series combination, said first series combination adapted for operative connection to the ballast; (b) a second capacitor and a second resistive element operatively connected to form a second series combination, said second series combination adapted for operative connection to the ballast such that, in operation, the second capacitor is charged; (c) a switch operatively connected in series with the starter winding, said switch and starter winding operatively connected in parallel with the second capacitor, such that, in operation, the closing of the switch is determined by the voltage across the first capacitor and the closure of the switch enables the second capacitor to discharge through the starter winding; and (d) a sensing circuit, including a reactance, which is adapted for operative connection between the gaseous-discharge lamp and the junction between the first resistive element and first capacitor, such that, in operation, closures of switch are prevented when the gaseous-discharge lamp approaches its normal operating condition.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
225 words
A starter circuit for use in a gaseous-discharge lamp lighting system, said system including a ballast having line and common leads for receiving an AC input voltage, a starter winding and a lamp lead, and a gaseous-discharge lamp which is operatively connected between the lamp and common leads of the ballast, said starter circuit comprising: (a) a first resistive element and a first capacitor operatively connected to form a first series combination, said first series combination adapted for operative connection to the ballast; (b) a second capacitor and a second resistive element operatively connected to form a second series combination, said second series combination adapted for operative connection to the ballast such that, in operation, the second capacitor is charged; (c) a switch operatively connected in series with the starter winding, said switch and starter winding operatively connected in parallel with the second capacitor, such that, in operation, the closing of the switch is determined by the voltage across the first capacitor and the closure of the switch enables the second capacitor to discharge through the starter winding; and (d) a sensing circuit, including a reactance, which is adapted for operative connection between the gaseous-discharge lamp and the junction between the first resistive element and first capacitor, such that, in operation, closures of switch are prevented when the gaseous-discharge lamp approaches its normal operating condition.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
14 words
The starting circuit of claim 25, wherein the second resistive element comprises a resistor.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 25, wherein the second resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim
17 words
The starting circuit of claim 25, wherein the second resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 32
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 25, wherein the switch comprises an SCR and a diac.
Claim 33
Dependent Claim
14 words
The starting circuit of claim 29, wherein the second resistive element comprises a resistor.
Claim 34
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 29, wherein the second resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 35
Dependent Claim
17 words
The starting circuit of claim 29, wherein the second resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 25, wherein the switch comprises a triac and a diac.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim
14 words
The starting circuit of claim 33, wherein the second resistive element comprises a resistor.
Claim 38
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 33, wherein the second resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 39
Dependent Claim
17 words
The starting circuit of claim 33, wherein the second resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 40
Dependent Claim
250 words
A starter circuit for use in a gaseous-discharge lamp lighting system, said system including a lead-peaked regulating type ballast having a primary winding with line and common leads for receiving an AC input voltage, having a voltage tap, having a starter winding, and having a secondary winding with one end thereof providing the lamp lead of the ballast, and having a ballast capacitor, and a gaseous-discharge lamp which is operatively connected in series with the ballast capacitor and the secondary winding between the voltage tap and common lead of the ballast, said starter circuit comprising: (a) a first resistive element and a first capacitor adapted for operative connection in series between the voltage tap of the primary and the common lead of the ballast; (b) a second capacitor and a second resistive element adapted for operative connection in series between the voltage tap and the common lead of the ballast, such that, in operation, the second capacitor is charged; (c) a switch in series with the starter winding, said switch and starter winding adpated for operative connection in parallel with the second capacitor, such that, in operation, the closing of the switch enables the second capacitor to discharge through the starter winding; and (d) a sensing circuit, including a reactance, adapted for operative connection between one terminal of the ballast capacitor and the junction between the first resistive element and first capacitor such that, in operation, closures of the switch are prevented when the gaseous-discharge lamp approaches its operating condition.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim
250 words
A starter circuit for use in a gaseous-discharge lamp lighting system, said system including a lead-peaked regulating type ballast having a primary winding with line and common leads for receiving an AC input voltage, having a voltage tap, having a starter winding, and having a secondary winding with one end thereof providing the lamp lead of the ballast, and having a ballast capacitor, and a gaseous-discharge lamp which is operatively connected in series with the ballast capacitor and the secondary winding between the voltage tap and common lead of the ballast, said starter circuit comprising: (a) a first resistive element and a first capacitor adapted for operative connection in series between the voltage tap of the primary and the common lead of the ballast; (b) a second capacitor and a second resistive element adapted for operative connection in series between the voltage tap and the common lead of the ballast, such that, in operation, the second capacitor is charged; (c) a switch in series with the starter winding, said switch and starter winding adpated for operative connection in parallel with the second capacitor, such that, in operation, the closing of the switch enables the second capacitor to discharge through the starter winding; and (d) a sensing circuit, including a reactance, adapted for operative connection between one terminal of the ballast capacitor and the junction between the first resistive element and first capacitor such that, in operation, closures of the switch are prevented when the gaseous-discharge lamp approaches its operating condition.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
14 words
The starting circuit of claim 37, wherein the second resistive element comprises a resistor.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 37, wherein the second resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim
17 words
The starting circuit of claim 37, wherein the second resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 37, wherein the switch comprises an SCR and a diac.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
14 words
The starting circuit of claim 41, wherein the second resistive element comprises a resistor.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 41, wherein the second resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 48
Dependent Claim
17 words
The starting circuit of claim 41, wherein the second resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 49
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 37, wherein the switch comprises a triac and a diac.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim
14 words
The starting circuit of claim 45, wherein the second resistive element comprises a resistor.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 45, wherein the second resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 52
Dependent Claim
17 words
The starting circuit of claim 45, wherein the second resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 53
Dependent Claim
206 words
In a gaseous-discharge lamp lighting system, said system including a lead-peaked regulating type ballast having a primary winding with line and common leads for receiving an AC input voltage, having a voltage tap, having a secondary winding with one end thereof providing the lamp lead of the ballast, and having a ballast capacitor, and a gaseous-discharge lamp which is operatively connected in series with the ballast capacitor and secondary winding between the voltage tap and the common lead of the ballast, the improvement comprising an auxiliary lighting circuit which includes: (a) a first resistive element and a capacitor operatively connected in series between the voltage tap and common lead of the ballast; (b) a second resistive element and a switch operatively connected in series between the voltage tap and the common of the ballast, the closing of the switch being determined by the voltage across the first capacitor and the closure of the switch allowing the second resistive element to be energized; and (c) a sensing circuit, including a reactance; operatively connected between one terminal of the ballast capacitor and the junction of the first resistive element and the first capacitor for preventing closures of the switch when the gaseous-discharge lamp approaches its normal operating condition.
Claim 54
Dependent Claim
206 words
In a gaseous-discharge lamp lighting system, said system including a lead-peaked regulating type ballast having a primary winding with line and common leads for receiving an AC input voltage, having a voltage tap, having a secondary winding with one end thereof providing the lamp lead of the ballast, and having a ballast capacitor, and a gaseous-discharge lamp which is operatively connected in series with the ballast capacitor and secondary winding between the voltage tap and the common lead of the ballast, the improvement comprising an auxiliary lighting circuit which includes: (a) a first resistive element and a capacitor operatively connected in series between the voltage tap and common lead of the ballast; (b) a second resistive element and a switch operatively connected in series between the voltage tap and the common of the ballast, the closing of the switch being determined by the voltage across the first capacitor and the closure of the switch allowing the second resistive element to be energized; and (c) a sensing circuit, including a reactance; operatively connected between one terminal of the ballast capacitor and the junction of the first resistive element and the first capacitor for preventing closures of the switch when the gaseous-discharge lamp approaches its normal operating condition.
Claim 55
Dependent Claim
16 words
The auxiliary lighting circuit of claim 49, wherein the second resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 56
Dependent Claim
18 words
The auxiliary lighting circuit of claim 49, wherein the second resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 57
Dependent Claim
16 words
The auxiliary light circuit of claim 49, wherein the switch comprises an SCR and a diac.
Claim 58
Dependent Claim
16 words
The auxiliary lighting circuit of claim 52, wherein the second resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 59
Dependent Claim
18 words
The auxiliary lighting circuit of claim 52, wherein the second resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 60
Dependent Claim
16 words
The auxiliary lighting circuit of claim 49, wherein the switch comprises a triac and a diac.
Claim 61
Dependent Claim
16 words
The auxiliary lighting circuit of claim 55, wherein the second resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 62
Dependent Claim
18 words
The auxiliary lighting circuit of claim 55, wherein the second resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 63
Dependent Claim
221 words
An auxiliary lighting circuit for use in a gaseous-discharge lamp lighting system, said system including a lead-peaked regulating type ballast having a primary winding with line and common leads for receiving an AC input voltage, having a voltage tap, having secondary winding one end thereof providing the lamp lead of the ballast, and having a ballast capacitor, and a gaseous-discharge lamp which is operatively connected in series with the ballast capacitor and secondary winding between the voltage tap and the common lead of the ballast, said auxiliary lighting circuit comprising: (a) a first resistive element and a first capacitor adapted for operative connection in series between the voltage tap and common lead of the ballast; (b) a second resistive element and a switch adapted for operative connection in series between the voltage tap and the common of the ballast such that, in operation, the closing of the switch is determined by the voltage across the first capacitor and the closure of the switch allows the second resistive element to be energized; and (c) a sensing circuit, including a reactance, adapted for operative connection between one terminal of the ballast capacitor and the junction of the first resistive element and the first capacitor, such that, in operation, closures of the switch are prevented when the gaseous-discharge lamp approaches its normal operating condition.
Claim 64
Dependent Claim
221 words
An auxiliary lighting circuit for use in a gaseous-discharge lamp lighting system, said system including a lead-peaked regulating type ballast having a primary winding with line and common leads for receiving an AC input voltage, having a voltage tap, having secondary winding one end thereof providing the lamp lead of the ballast, and having a ballast capacitor, and a gaseous-discharge lamp which is operatively connected in series with the ballast capacitor and secondary winding between the voltage tap and the common lead of the ballast, said auxiliary lighting circuit comprising: (a) a first resistive element and a first capacitor adapted for operative connection in series between the voltage tap and common lead of the ballast; (b) a second resistive element and a switch adapted for operative connection in series between the voltage tap and the common of the ballast such that, in operation, the closing of the switch is determined by the voltage across the first capacitor and the closure of the switch allows the second resistive element to be energized; and (c) a sensing circuit, including a reactance, adapted for operative connection between one terminal of the ballast capacitor and the junction of the first resistive element and the first capacitor, such that, in operation, closures of the switch are prevented when the gaseous-discharge lamp approaches its normal operating condition.
Claim 65
Dependent Claim
16 words
The auxiliary lighting circuit of claim 58, wherein the second resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 66
Dependent Claim
18 words
The auxiliary lighting circuit of claim 58, wherein the second resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 67
Dependent Claim
16 words
The auxiliary light circuit of claim 58, wherein the switch comprises an SCR and a diac.
Claim 68
Dependent Claim
16 words
The auxiliary lighting circuit of claim 61, wherein the second resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 69
Dependent Claim
18 words
The auxiliary lighting circuit of claim 61, wherein the second resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 70
Dependent Claim
16 words
The auxiliary lighting circuit of claim 58, wherein the switch comprises a triac and a diac.
Claim 71
Dependent Claim
16 words
The auxiliary lighting circuit of claim 64, wherein the second resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 72
Dependent Claim
18 words
The auxiliary lighting circuit of claim 64, wherein the second resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 73
Dependent Claim
156 words
In a gaseous-discharge lamp lighting system, including a ballast having line and common leads for receiving an AC input voltage, a lamp and a starter winding, and a gaseous-discharge lamp operatively connected between the lamp and common leads of the ballast, the improvement comprising: A starter circuit for generating starting pulses to the gaseous-discharge lamp which terminates the generation of starting pulses once the gaseous-discharge lamp ignites, said starter circuit comprising: (a) a first capacitor and a first resistive element operatively connected in series, said series connection operatively connected to the ballast; (b) a second capacitor and a second resistor element operatively connected in series across the first capacitor; and (c) a switch operatively connected between the first capacitor and one end of the starter winding, the closing of the switch being determined by the voltage across the second capacitor and the closure of the switch enabling the first capacitor to discharge through the starter winding.
Claim 74
Dependent Claim
156 words
In a gaseous-discharge lamp lighting system, including a ballast having line and common leads for receiving an AC input voltage, a lamp and a starter winding, and a gaseous-discharge lamp operatively connected between the lamp and common leads of the ballast, the improvement comprising: A starter circuit for generating starting pulses to the gaseous-discharge lamp which terminates the generation of starting pulses once the gaseous-discharge lamp ignites, said starter circuit comprising: (a) a first capacitor and a first resistive element operatively connected in series, said series connection operatively connected to the ballast; (b) a second capacitor and a second resistor element operatively connected in series across the first capacitor; and (c) a switch operatively connected between the first capacitor and one end of the starter winding, the closing of the switch being determined by the voltage across the second capacitor and the closure of the switch enabling the first capacitor to discharge through the starter winding.
Claim 75
Dependent Claim
14 words
The starting circuit of claim 67, wherein the first resistive element comprises a resistor.
Claim 76
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 67, wherein the first resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 77
Dependent Claim
17 words
The starting circuit of claim 67, wherein the first resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 78
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 67, wherein the switch comprises an SCR and a diac.
Claim 79
Dependent Claim
14 words
The starting circuit of claim 71, wherein the first resistive element comprises a resistor.
Claim 80
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 71, wherein the first resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 81
Dependent Claim
17 words
The starting circuit of claim 71, wherein the first resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 82
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 67, wherein the switch comprises a triac and a diac.
Claim 83
Dependent Claim
14 words
The starting circuit of claim 75, wherein the first resistive element comprises a resistor.
Claim 84
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 75, wherein the first resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 85
Dependent Claim
17 words
The starting circuit of claim 75, wherein the first resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 86
Dependent Claim
187 words
In a gaseous-discharge lamp lighting system, including a lead-peaked regulating type ballast having a primary winding providing line and common leads for receiving an AC input voltage, having a voltage tap, having a secondary with one end thereof providing the lamp lead of the ballast, and having a starter winding, and a gaseous-discharge lamp, which is operatively connected in a serial arrangement with the secondary winding between the voltage tap and the common of the ballast, A starter circuit for generating starting pulses to the gaseous-discharge lamp which terminates the generation of starting pulses once the gaseous-discharge lamp ignites, comprising: (a) a first capacitor and a first resistive element operatively connected in series between the lamp lead and voltage tap of the ballast; (b) a second capacitor and a second resistive element operatively connected in series across the first capacitor; and (c) a switch operatively connected between the first capacitor and one end of the starter winding, the closing of the switch being determined by the voltage across the second capacitor and the closure of the switch enabling the first capacitor to discharge through the starter winding.
Claim 87
Dependent Claim
187 words
In a gaseous-discharge lamp lighting system, including a lead-peaked regulating type ballast having a primary winding providing line and common leads for receiving an AC input voltage, having a voltage tap, having a secondary with one end thereof providing the lamp lead of the ballast, and having a starter winding, and a gaseous-discharge lamp, which is operatively connected in a serial arrangement with the secondary winding between the voltage tap and the common of the ballast, A starter circuit for generating starting pulses to the gaseous-discharge lamp which terminates the generation of starting pulses once the gaseous-discharge lamp ignites, comprising: (a) a first capacitor and a first resistive element operatively connected in series between the lamp lead and voltage tap of the ballast; (b) a second capacitor and a second resistive element operatively connected in series across the first capacitor; and (c) a switch operatively connected between the first capacitor and one end of the starter winding, the closing of the switch being determined by the voltage across the second capacitor and the closure of the switch enabling the first capacitor to discharge through the starter winding.
Claim 88
Dependent Claim
14 words
The starting circuit of claim 79, wherein the first resistive element comprises a resistor.
Claim 89
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 79, wherein the first resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 90
Dependent Claim
17 words
The starting circuit of claim 79, wherein the first resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 91
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 79, wherein the switch comprises an SCR and a diac.
Claim 92
Dependent Claim
14 words
The starting circuit of claim 83, wherein the first resistive element comprises a resistor.
Claim 93
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 83, wherein the first resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 94
Dependent Claim
17 words
The starting circuit of claim 83, wherein the first resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 95
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 79, wherein the switch comprises a triac and a diac.
Claim 96
Dependent Claim
14 words
The starting circuit of claim 87, wherein the first resistive element comprises a resistor.
Claim 97
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 87, wherein the first resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 98
Dependent Claim
17 words
The starting circuit of claim 87, wherein the first resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 99
Dependent Claim
164 words
A starter circuit for use in a gaseous-discharge lamp lighting system, said system including a ballast having line and common leads for receiving an AC input voltage, a lamp lead, and a starter winding, and a gaseous-discharge lamp which is operatively connected between the lamp and common leads of the ballast, which starter circuit, in operation, generates starting pulses to the gaseous-discharge lamp until the gaseous-discharge lamp ignites, comprising: (a) a first capacitor and a first resistive element operatively connected to form a first series combination, said first series combination adapted for operative connection to the ballast; (b) a second capacitor and a second resistive element operatively connected in series across the first capacitor; and (c) a switch operatively connected between the first capacitor and one end of the starter winding, such that, in operation, the closing of switch is determined by the voltage across the second capacitor and the closure of the switch enables the first capacitor to discharge through the starter winding.
Claim 100
Dependent Claim
164 words
A starter circuit for use in a gaseous-discharge lamp lighting system, said system including a ballast having line and common leads for receiving an AC input voltage, a lamp lead, and a starter winding, and a gaseous-discharge lamp which is operatively connected between the lamp and common leads of the ballast, which starter circuit, in operation, generates starting pulses to the gaseous-discharge lamp until the gaseous-discharge lamp ignites, comprising: (a) a first capacitor and a first resistive element operatively connected to form a first series combination, said first series combination adapted for operative connection to the ballast; (b) a second capacitor and a second resistive element operatively connected in series across the first capacitor; and (c) a switch operatively connected between the first capacitor and one end of the starter winding, such that, in operation, the closing of switch is determined by the voltage across the second capacitor and the closure of the switch enables the first capacitor to discharge through the starter winding.
Claim 101
Dependent Claim
14 words
The starting circuit of claim 91, wherein the first resistive element comprises a resistor.
Claim 102
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 91, wherein the first resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 103
Dependent Claim
17 words
The starting circuit of claim 91, wherein the first resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 104
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 91, wherein the switch comprises an SCR and a diac.
Claim 105
Dependent Claim
14 words
The starting circuit of claim 95, wherein the first resistive element comprises a resistor.
Claim 106
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 95, wherein the first resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 107
Dependent Claim
17 words
The starting circuit of claim 95, wherein the first resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 108
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 91, wherein the switch comprises a triac and a diac.
Claim 109
Dependent Claim
14 words
The starting circuit of claim 99, wherein the first resistive element comprises a resistor.
Claim 110
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 99, wherein the first resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 111
Dependent Claim
17 words
The starting circuit of claim 99, wherein the first resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 112
Dependent Claim
197 words
A starter circuit for use in a gaseous-discharge lamp lighting system, said system including a lead-peaked regulating type ballast having a primary winding with line and common leads for receiving an AC input voltage, having a voltage tap on the primary, having a secondary winding with one end thereof providing the lamp lead of the ballast, and having a starter winding, and a gaseous-discharge lamp, which is operatively connected in a serial arrangement with the secondary winding between the voltage tap and common of the ballast, which starter circuit, in operation, generates starting pulses to the gaseous-discharge lamp until the gaseous-discharge lamp ignites, comprising: (a) a first capacitor and a first resistive element adapted for operative connection in series between the lamp lead and voltage tap of the ballast; (b) a second capacitor and a second resistive element operatively connected in series across the first capacitor; and (c) a switch operatively connected between the first capacitor and one end of the starter winding, such that, in operation, the closing of the switch is determined by the voltage across the second capacitor and the closure of the switch enables the first capacitor to discharge through the starter winding.
Claim 113
Dependent Claim
197 words
A starter circuit for use in a gaseous-discharge lamp lighting system, said system including a lead-peaked regulating type ballast having a primary winding with line and common leads for receiving an AC input voltage, having a voltage tap on the primary, having a secondary winding with one end thereof providing the lamp lead of the ballast, and having a starter winding, and a gaseous-discharge lamp, which is operatively connected in a serial arrangement with the secondary winding between the voltage tap and common of the ballast, which starter circuit, in operation, generates starting pulses to the gaseous-discharge lamp until the gaseous-discharge lamp ignites, comprising: (a) a first capacitor and a first resistive element adapted for operative connection in series between the lamp lead and voltage tap of the ballast; (b) a second capacitor and a second resistive element operatively connected in series across the first capacitor; and (c) a switch operatively connected between the first capacitor and one end of the starter winding, such that, in operation, the closing of the switch is determined by the voltage across the second capacitor and the closure of the switch enables the first capacitor to discharge through the starter winding.
Claim 114
Dependent Claim
14 words
The starting circuit of claim 103, wherein the first resistive element comprises a resistor.
Claim 115
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 103, wherein the first resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 116
Dependent Claim
17 words
The starting circuit of claim 103, wherein the first resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 117
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 103, wherein the switch comprises an SCR and a diac.
Claim 118
Dependent Claim
14 words
The starting circuit of claim 107, wherein the first resistive element comprises a resistor.
Claim 119
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 107, wherein the first resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 120
Dependent Claim
17 words
The starting circuit of claim 107, wherein the first resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 121
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 103, wherein the switch comprises a triac and a diac.
Claim 122
Dependent Claim
14 words
The starting circuit of claim 111, wherein the first resistive element comprises a resistor.
Claim 123
Dependent Claim
15 words
The starting circuit of claim 111, wherein the first resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 124
Dependent Claim
17 words
The starting circuit of claim 111, wherein the first resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 125
Dependent Claim
140 words
In a gaseous-discharge lamp lighting system said system including a ballast having line and common leads for receiving an AC input voltage, a voltage tap and a lamp lead, and having a non-sinusoidal open circuit voltage, and a gaseous-discharge lamp which is operatively connected between the lamp and common leads of the ballast, the improvement comprising an auxiliary lighting circuit which includes: (a) a first resistive element and a first capacitor operatively connected in series to sense the voltage between the lamp lead and voltage tap of the ballast; and (b) a second resistive element and a switch operatively connected in series between the voltage tap and the common of the ballast, the closing of the switch being determined by the voltage across the first capacitor and the closure of the switch allowing the second resistive element to be energized.
Claim 126
Dependent Claim
140 words
In a gaseous-discharge lamp lighting system said system including a ballast having line and common leads for receiving an AC input voltage, a voltage tap and a lamp lead, and having a non-sinusoidal open circuit voltage, and a gaseous-discharge lamp which is operatively connected between the lamp and common leads of the ballast, the improvement comprising an auxiliary lighting circuit which includes: (a) a first resistive element and a first capacitor operatively connected in series to sense the voltage between the lamp lead and voltage tap of the ballast; and (b) a second resistive element and a switch operatively connected in series between the voltage tap and the common of the ballast, the closing of the switch being determined by the voltage across the first capacitor and the closure of the switch allowing the second resistive element to be energized.
Claim 127
Dependent Claim
16 words
The auxiliary lighting circuit of claim 115, wherein the second resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 128
Dependent Claim
18 words
The auxiliary lighting circuit of claim 115, wherein the second resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 129
Dependent Claim
16 words
The auxiliary light circuit of claim 115, wherein the switch comprises an SCR and a diac.
Claim 130
Dependent Claim
16 words
The auxiliary lighting circuit of claim 118, wherein the second resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 131
Dependent Claim
18 words
The auxiliary lighting circuit of claim 118, wherein the second resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
Claim 132
Dependent Claim
16 words
The auxiliary lighting circuit of claim 115, wherein the switch comprises a triac and a diac.
Claim 133
Dependent Claim
16 words
The auxiliary lighting circuit of claim 121, wherein the second resistive element comprises an incandescent lamp.
Claim 134
Dependent Claim
18 words
The auxiliary lighting circuit of claim 121, wherein the second resistive element comprises the coil of a relay.
References Cited (Backward Citations)
USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1982-01-08 | 1982-07-10 | 1983-01-09 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1986-01-08 | 1986-07-10 | 1987-01-09 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 1990-01-08 | 1990-07-10 | 1991-01-09 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |