阅读说明：本技术 具有集成照明的电插座盖 (Electrical socket cover with integrated lighting ) 是由 M·奥赖利 D·温希普 于 2019-05-17 设计创作，主要内容包括：一种具有面板和背板的照明装置和系统。面板或背板可以具有一个臂或一组臂,一个臂或一组臂具有电导体以连接或耦接至插座、插头或开关的电接触点。电导体可以从诸如AC电压源之类的电压源接收电压。电压调节电路可以提供对电压源的调节或转换。开关可以允许连接至电压调节电路的控制电路被绕过或者从一种操作模式切换至另一种操作模式。操作模式可以处于应急照明模式和夜灯模式。电压源可以通过控制电路或开关连接至光源或传感器,并且光源可以基于传感器的输出来激活。(A lighting device and system having a faceplate and a backplate. The faceplate or backplate may have an arm or set of arms with electrical conductors to connect or couple to electrical contacts of a socket, plug or switch. The electrical conductor may receive a voltage from a voltage source, such as an AC voltage source. The voltage regulation circuit may provide regulation or conversion of the voltage source. The switch may allow a control circuit connected to the voltage regulation circuit to be bypassed or switched from one mode of operation to another. The operating mode may be in an emergency lighting mode and a night light mode. The voltage source may be connected to the light source or the sensor through a control circuit or switch, and the light source may be activated based on the output of the sensor.)

1. A socket cover comprising:

a face plate and a back plate;

at least one arm having electrical conductors extending from the back plate;

a sensor for detecting ambient light;

a light source attached to the socket cover, wherein the light source further comprises at least one direction indicator;

a control circuit having at least two modes of operation and coupled to the light source; and

a switch coupled to the control circuit for switching between the at least two operating modes, wherein the at least two operating modes are an emergency lighting mode and a nightlight mode, and wherein the emergency lighting mode is still enabled during the nightlight mode.

2. The socket cover according to claim 1, wherein the back plate is removably coupled to the face plate.

3. The socket cover according to claim 1, wherein the front plate and the back plate each define at least one socket opening.

4. The socket cover according to claim 1, wherein the at least one arm is removably coupled to the back plate.

5. The socket cover according to claim 1, wherein the electrical conductor is coupled to the control circuit.

6. The socket cover according to claim 1, wherein the sensor is a photodiode.

7. The socket cover according to claim 1, wherein the light source is connected to a lens.

8. The socket cover according to claim 1, wherein the light source further comprises at least one LED.

9. The socket cover according to claim 1, further comprising an emitter.

10. The socket cover according to claim 1, further comprising a battery coupled to the control circuit.

11. The socket cover according to claim 1, further comprising a second switch for selecting a direction for the at least one direction indicator.

12. The socket cover according to claim 11, wherein the second switch is capable of selecting a right side, a left side, or both a right side and a left side for the at least one direction indicator.

13. A socket cover system, comprising:

at least one electrical conductor for receiving a voltage from an incoming voltage source;

a voltage regulation circuit that regulates a voltage from the incoming voltage source and generates a regulated voltage;

a battery for storing energy from the regulated voltage;

a light source connected to the battery and the regulated voltage through a control circuit, wherein the light source further comprises at least one direction indicator;

at least one sensor coupled to the control circuit, the at least one sensor for detecting an environmental condition; and

a switch connected to the control circuit for controlling the connection between the light source, the battery, and the regulated voltage.

14. The receptacle cover system of claim 13, wherein the voltage regulation circuit comprises a voltage regulator.

15. The outlet cover system of claim 13, wherein the at least one electrical conductor is coupled to the voltage regulation circuit.

16. The outlet cover system of claim 13, wherein the regulated voltage is a DC voltage.

17. The outlet cover system of claim 13, wherein the control circuit has at least two modes of operation.

18. The outlet cover system of claim 17, wherein the at least two modes of operation are an emergency lighting mode and a night light mode.

19. The receptacle cover system of claim 18, wherein the emergency lighting mode further comprises coupling the battery to the light source.

20. The socket cover system according to claim 13, further comprising a second switch for selecting a direction for the at least one direction indicator.

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to a light emitting device. More particularly, but not by way of limitation, the present disclosure relates to devices and systems for electrical socket covers with integrated lighting.

Background

Night lights and emergency lighting devices have existed for many years, but each has its own drawbacks. And in particular night lights, it is often desirable to use at least one electrical outlet or receptacle, and in some cases, two receptacles for a night light. These lights can also become very hot and can cause a fire hazard or even cause an actual fire if other items in the room, such as a child's blanket or plush toy, come into contact with the night light for an extended period of time. For emergency lighting, there is generally no way of operation that allows light to be used for any condition other than a power outage. Additionally, these lights typically use at least one receptacle if the conventional electrical plug receptacle or socket does not have two receptacles.

One of the additional drawbacks of these devices is that there is no way or means for dual operation of the night light and emergency lighting. In many cases, night lights are not used as emergency lights due to the requirement that the night light be plugged into an outlet or receptacle that cannot provide power during a power outage. Many nightlights also do not include a light detector or photovoltaic cell for determining when sunlight or other light sources are sufficient to shut down and/or allow the nightlight to cool. In contrast, emergency lights are disadvantageous for use as night lights because they require a large battery or other energy source that can be used to generate a glare or high intensity light in the event of a power failure and circuitry to detect when a power failure occurs. These emergency lights are also typically connected together to the battery backup system of the entire building, but are not able to provide illumination for the aisles or rooms not connected to the battery backup system.

An apparatus and system for an electrical socket cover with integrated lighting that overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art would be advantageous. The present disclosure provides such devices and systems.

Disclosure of Invention

The present disclosure relates to lighting devices. The lighting device may be used in homes, businesses, storage areas, and anywhere electricity may be provided. The lighting device may receive a power signal from a power source. Accordingly, in one aspect, the present disclosure relates to a lighting device incorporated within an electrical socket or slot cover. The lighting device may receive power from an electrical outlet via the contact points of the plug, socket, and/or switch.

In another aspect, the present disclosure relates to a night light device incorporated within an electrical socket or receptacle cover to provide a small amount of illumination to a child or person getting up at night. In another aspect, the present disclosure relates to an emergency light for use during a power failure. When a power failure occurs, the lighting device may activate its light sources to provide light to the area and environment in which the lighting device is disposed.

Drawings

The novel features believed characteristic of the disclosure are set forth in the appended claims. The disclosure itself, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description of an illustrative embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

fig. 1A is an illustration of a socket cover in a front perspective view.

Fig. 1B is an illustration of a socket cover in a rear perspective view.

Fig. 2 is an illustration of the socket cover in a rear exploded view.

Fig. 3 is an illustration of the socket cover in a front view.

Fig. 4 is an illustration of the socket cover in a side view.

Fig. 5 is a diagram of a light source.

Figure 6A is an illustration of an alternative socket cover in a rear perspective view.

Figure 6B is an illustration of an alternative socket cover in a rear perspective view.

Fig. 7 is a schematic block diagram of a light emitting device.

Fig. 8A is an illustration of a schematic diagram of a portion of a light emitting device.

Fig. 8B is an illustration of a schematic diagram of a portion of a light emitting device.

FIG. 9A is an illustration of a front perspective view of a socket cover with a direction indicator.

FIG. 9B is an illustration of a rear perspective view of a socket cover with a direction indicator.

Figure 10 is an illustration of a front view of a socket cover with a direction indicator.

Figure 11 is an illustration of a block diagram view of a socket cover system.

Figure 12 is an illustration of a front view of a socket cover with a direction indicator.

Fig. 13A is an illustration of a light source for a socket cover.

Fig. 13B is an illustration of a light source with an extension for a socket cover.

Detailed Description

Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described. Fig. 1A is an illustration of a socket cover 100A in a front perspective. The socket cover 100A may have a faceplate 102. The faceplate 102 may also have a receptacle opening or set of receptacle openings 110A and/or 110B. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the faceplate 102 will be a faceplate for an electrical outlet, but it will be understood that other faceplates and/or covers may be substituted for the receptacle cover 100A. Other panels and/or openings may include, but are not limited to, electrical outlets, light switches, alarm boxes, thermostats, and/or objects or devices connected to electrical power.

Faceplate 102 and/or a back plate (not shown) may also have arms 106 that extend from socket cover 100A, are fixed to socket cover 100A, or are attached to socket cover 100A. The arm 106 may also have electrical conductors that may be attached to a power source, or power electrical power that powers a night light and/or emergency light circuit. The receptacle cover 100A may be connected to an electrical receptacle or switch through the fastener openings 112. The fastener openings may allow for any number of fasteners, such as, but not limited to, screws, nails, clamps, adhesives, glues, synthetic materials, dovetails, mortises, post-to-hole, snap or snap-like connection, or any other attachment means or method, or any combination thereof.

Fig. 1B is an illustration of the socket cover 100B in a rear perspective view. Socket cover 100B may have a face plate 102 and may also have a back plate 104. in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the back plate 104 may be removably coupled to the face plate 102 by a set of fasteners 103A, 103B, 103C, and/or 103D (collectively 103). It will be understood that the face plate 102 and back plate 104 may also be removably coupled by other fasteners, such as screws, nails, clamps, adhesives, glues, composite materials, dovetails, mortises, post-to-hole, snaps, or similar snap connections, or any other attachment means or methods, or any combination thereof.

The backplane 104 may also include a first arm 106A and/or a second arm 106B (collectively referred to as arms 106, or at least one arm). Arms 106 may extend from back plate 104 via fasteners, attach to back plate 104, and/or secure to back plate 104. The arm 106 may also have an electrical conductor 108 (or at least one electrical conductor) attached, secured or housed within the arm 106. The electrical conductors 108 may include, but are not limited to, having bumps, squares, springs, blocks, protrusions, or other conductive materials and/or shapes. The electrical conductors 108 may be attached or connected to a power source or an electrical signal. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the power source or electrical signal may be an alternating current ("AC") voltage.

The power and/or electrical signals may be generated by replacing a conventional socket or switch cover or panel with the socket cover 100B. A socket and/or switch may be placed through socket openings 110A and/or 110B. It will be understood that different configurations of jack openings may also be utilized, such as, but not limited to, a single plug or switch configuration, a double plug or switch configuration, a triple plug or switch configuration, a quad plug or switch configuration, and/or plugs or switches that may be used in a particular configuration. Receptacle cover 100B may be attached to a receptacle or switch through fastener openings 112, and additional openings may be utilized if different plug and/or switch configurations are used.

In one embodiment of the present disclosure, switch 140 may be used to switch or toggle between multiple modes of operation of socket cover 100B. The switching or transitioning between the various operating modes may be an instantaneous or near instantaneous switching or transitioning. Switch 140 may be attached, secured, and/or housed within faceplate 102 and/or backplate 104. The operating mode may include, but is not limited to, a night light mode and/or an emergency lighting mode.

Fig. 2 is an illustration of the socket cover 200 in a rear exploded view. Socket cover 200 may include a face plate 202 and/or a back plate 204. The face plate 202 and/or the back plate 204 may also be connected, secured, attached with arms 206 and/or include arms 206. The arm 206 may have electrical conductors 208 connected, secured, attached, and/or housed within the arm 206. The arm 206 and/or the electrical conductor 208 may also have wires or other electrically conductive materials secured, attached, and/or housed within the arm 206 and/or the electrical conductor 208.

The socket cover 200 may also have a light source 214 for generating, and/or emitting light. The control circuit 216 may control when and/or whether the light source 214 is activated. The control circuit 216 may also be connected to a battery 218. The battery 218 may allow for storage of energy from the incoming voltage source. The light source 214, the control circuit 216, and/or the battery 218 may be connected, attached, secured, and/or housed within the socket cover 200. For example, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the light source 214, the control circuitry 216, and/or the battery 218 may be removably connected, attached, secured, and/or housed within the panel 202. Alternatively, the light source 214, control circuitry 216, and/or battery 218 may be removably connected, attached, secured, and/or housed within the back plate 204.

The battery 218 may be connected to a power source and/or electrical signals through the control circuit 216. Alternatively, the battery may be connected to the electrical conductor 208 directly or indirectly through a wire or other electrically conductive material. The battery 218 may also provide power and/or electricity to the light source 214. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the light source 214 may be directly or indirectly connected to a power source and/or an electrical signal. The light source 214 may be housed or enclosed within the face plate 202 and/or the back plate 204 such that an opening defined by the face plate 202 and/or the back plate 204 may be formed. The control circuit 216 may also have a switch 240, which switch 240 may control whether the receptacle cover 200 may be operated in a night or emergency light mode of operation, or in some other mode of operation.

Fig. 3 is an illustration of the socket cover 300 in a front view. The socket cover 300 may have a faceplate 302, and the faceplate 302 may also be described as a cover, a switch or socket faceplate, or a switch or socket cover. The faceplate 302 may have or define at least one receptacle opening 310A and/or 310B (collectively 310). Although depicted as oblong or rectangular, it will be understood that any shape may be used for the opening and/or to define the opening or aperture, such as, but not limited to, square, spherical, cylindrical, polygonal, elliptical, crescent, cube, cuboid, ellipsoid, cone, prism, pyramid, or combinations thereof.

The panel 302 may also have or define fastener openings 312, and the fastener openings 312 may be used to place fasteners, such as, but not limited to, screws, bolts, nails, adhesives, glues, synthetic fasteners, metal fasteners, wood fasteners, alloy fasteners, wood fasteners, other forms or types of fasteners, and/or any combination thereof. The panel 302 may also have a light source 314, and in one embodiment, the light source 314 may comprise a combination of light bars and/or light bulbs or light emitting diodes, such as but not limited to LEDs and/or OLEDs (or at least one LED or OLED). The indicator 320 and/or sensor 322 may also be housed within the faceplate 302 and/or backplate (not shown) or have an aperture, housing, and/or void defined by the faceplate 302 and/or backplate (not shown). The indicator 320 may be used to, but is not limited to, inform a user when power and/or energy is being provided to the socket cover 300 by the power source, when the battery is enabled, and/or in which mode the socket cover is operating. The indicator 320 may also be placed in an aperture defined by the face plate 302 and/or the back plate 304, or secured directly to the face plate 302 or to the face plate 302 through a lens. The sensor 322 (or at least one sensor) may include, but is not limited to, a light sensor, a photo resistor, a photodiode, and/or a phototransistor for detecting and/or measuring an amount of ambient light, or other environmental conditions in the local environment. The sensor 322 may also be placed in an aperture defined by the faceplate 302 and/or backplate 304, or secured directly to the faceplate 302 or to the faceplate 302 through a lens to allow the sensor 322 to respond to environmental conditions. In one embodiment, the sensors 322 may also include at least one sensor or other environmental sensor, such as, but not limited to, a humidity sensor, a temperature sensor, an air quality sensor, a carbon dioxide sensor, a carbon monoxide sensor, a nitrogen dioxide sensor, a vibration sensor, an accelerometer, a microphone, a sound detection sensor, a gas sensor, a pressure sensor, a tilt sensor, a weather sensor, and/or other sensors that may include or provide a signal or indication of an environmental event.

The transmitter 341 may also be housed within the faceplate 302 and/or the backplate (not shown), or have an aperture, housing, and/or void defined by the faceplate 302 and/or the backplate (not shown). The transmitter 341 may be coupled to a control circuit (not shown) and allow sound to be emitted from the socket cover 300 continuously or intermittently for a particular amount of time, such as, but not limited to, 10 seconds, 15 seconds, 30 seconds, 1 minute, 3 minutes, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 15 minutes, and/or 30 minutes, after a power failure has occurred and power has not been restored.

In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the socket cover 300 may have a front surface 338, and the front surface 338 may include a first beveled section 324, a top beveled section 326, a second beveled section 328, a bottom beveled section 330, a top flat section 332, a bottom flat section 334, or an intermediate flat section 336. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the angled sections 324, 326, 328, and/or 330 may provide the outer boundary of the panel 302. Among other things, the flat sections 332, 334, and/or 336 may provide an area for the receptacle opening 310. It will be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the beveled section may also be rounded, flat and/or square, or any other decorative contour and/or shape, while in alternative embodiments, the flat surface may be beveled, rounded, textured, or any other decorative contour and/or shape.

Fig. 4 is an illustration of the socket cover 400 in a side view. The socket cover 400 may have a face plate 402 and/or a back plate 404. The face plate 402 and the back plate 404 may be connected or coupled together by fasteners (not shown). The faceplate 402 and/or the backplate 404 may also define or provide receptacle openings 410A/410B. The arm 406 may be connected, secured, and/or coupled to the faceplate 402 or the backplate 404. In alternative embodiments of the present disclosure, the arm 406 may be made, fabricated, or formed from the face plate 402 or the back plate 404.

The electrical conductors 408 may be housed within the arms 406 or otherwise secured, connected or coupled to the arms 406. The electrical conductors 408 may be any number of circular buttons or tabs that may have a shape or profile that allows the electrical conductors 408 to reach, couple, and/or connect to a power source. The electrical conductors 408 may also have wires or other conductors coupled to the electrical conductors 408 to couple or connect the electrical conductors 408 to the control circuitry 416 and/or the battery 418. The control circuitry 416 may control the mode (or at least one mode) of operation of the socket cover 400 and/or the light source 414. The light source 414 may generate or emit light in any number of directions, and in one embodiment, the light source may generate light in the down or 0 degree position 415A. Although in other embodiments light may be generated in horizontal or 90 degree positions 415C or any number of angles or positions 415B therebetween, such as but not limited to 30 or 45 degree positions. These positions are with reference to and/or relative to a downward position, wherein the angle extends over an arc of rotation towards the top and front (front side) of the socket cover 400. For example, if the socket cover is placed in an electrical socket, when the light source is located on the bottom side of the socket cover (i.e., the light source faces the floor), the light in these different positions may illuminate the kick panel in a downward position and the opposite side of the hallway or room in a horizontal position. The operating mode (or at least two operating modes) may include, but is not limited to, a night light mode and/or an emergency light mode. The modes of operation may be switched and/or added together by the switch 440.

In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the receptacle cover 400 may be in a night light mode of operation, allowing the light source 414 to generate light based on a sensor that indicates when the room or location is no longer sufficiently illuminated. In alternative embodiments, the night light mode may also include the emergency lighting mode, or the night light mode may be used alone without the emergency lighting mode. The emergency lighting mode may be activated when there is no power or energy provided by the electrical conductors 408 to the control circuit 416. The modes of operation may be used individually or in combination.

Fig. 5 is an illustration of a light source 516. The light source may be connected, coupled and/or secured to a socket cover (not shown). In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the light source 516 may be clamped via clamps 542A and/or clamps 542B within the light emitting device. The light source 516 may also have at least one light bulb, where the light bulb is illustrated as a light bulb 544A, a light bulb 544B, and/or a light bulb 544C (collectively referred to as light bulbs 544). It will be understood that the bulbs may include any number of light emitting sources, including but not limited to LEDs, OLEDs, and other types or forms of bulbs, or any combination thereof. For example, the at least one light bulb may be at least one LED. The bulbs may also be set at various angles to produce varying degrees and/or distributions of light. In alternative embodiments of the present disclosure, each light bulb may be set at a different angle, for example, light bulb 544A may be set at a down or 0 degree position while light bulb 544B is set at a 30 degree position and/or light bulb 544C is set at a 45 degree position. In another alternative embodiment, the bulbs may each have a different degree of light distribution based on their construction or manufacturer. For example, bulbs 544A and/or 544C may have a light distribution angle of 15 degrees, while bulb 544B has a light distribution angle of 30 degrees, thereby allowing for a wider or wider light distribution. In another embodiment, the lens 546 may also be used to control and/or vary the light distribution of the bulbs 544, while it will be appreciated that the lens 546 may also be divided, segmented, and/or have portions that may vary the light distribution of each individual bulb.

Figure 6A is an illustration of an alternative socket cover 600A in a rear perspective view. Socket cover 600A may have a face plate 602 and/or a back plate 604. The face plate 602 and the back plate 604 may be attached, connected, and/or coupled together via fasteners. The face plate 602 and/or the back plate 604 may allow, provide, and/or define a switch opening 650 to implement a light switch, such as, but not limited to, a toggle or toggle switch, or a single pole or double pole switch.

The face plate 602 and/or the back plate 604 may have a first arm 652 or a second arm 654 attached, coupled, connected, and/or secured to the face plate 602 and/or the back plate 604. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first arm 652 may access and/or be coupled to one electrical conductor or power supply node via an electrical conductor (not shown). Similarly, the second arm 654 may access and/or be coupled to one electrical conductor or power node via an electrical conductor (not shown).

Figure 6B is an illustration of an alternative socket cover 600B in a rear perspective view. Socket cover 600B may have a face plate 602 and/or a back plate 604. The face plate 602 and the back plate 604 may be attached, connected, and/or coupled together via fasteners. The face plate 602 and/or the back plate 604 may allow, provide, and/or define a switch or receptacle opening 660 to implement a light switch, such as, but not limited to, a rocker switch, a switch and/or sensor, a toggle or toggle switch, or a single pole or double pole switch.

The face plate 602 and/or the back plate 604 may have a first arm 662 or a second arm 664 attached, coupled, connected, and/or secured to the face plate 602 and/or the back plate 604. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, first arm 662 may access and/or be coupled to one electrical conductor or power supply node via an electrical conductor (not shown). Similarly, the second arm 664 may access and/or be coupled to one electrical conductor or power supply node via an electrical conductor (not shown).

Fig. 7 is a schematic block diagram of a receptacle cover system 700. The outlet cover system 700 may have an incoming voltage source 702, and in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the incoming voltage source 702 may be an alternating or AC voltage source. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the incoming voltage source 702 may be received by at least one conductor (not shown). The incoming voltage source 702 may be regulated and/or converted to a DC operating voltage by the voltage regulation circuit 704 to regulate the incoming voltage from the incoming voltage source 702. The output of the voltage regulation circuit 704 may be a regulated voltage 706. The regulated voltage may be sent, but is not limited to, to battery 708, control circuitry 710, and/or switch 712. In alternative embodiments of the present disclosure, the battery 708 may be coupled and/or connected to a battery charging circuit that may utilize the regulated voltage 706. The control circuit 710 may allow the receptacle cover system 700 to provide a light source during a power outage by activating the battery and/or opening a connection or coupling between the light source and the battery 708. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the control circuit 710 may further include a switch 712.

Switch 712 allows the battery and/or control circuit 710 to be bypassed and the regulated voltage delivered to the input voltage node 714. Switch 712 may allow for control of the connections between light source 718, battery 708, and regulated voltage 706. The input voltage node 714 may provide a voltage to the sensor 716 and/or the light source 718. The sensor 716 may be connected to a switch 720, and the switch 720 may be connected to a light source 718, wherein all of these are coupled to ground 722. The sensor 716 may include, but is not limited to, a light sensor, a photo resistor, a photodiode, and/or a phototransistor.

It will be understood that the ground 722 may be disposed at any number of points within the circuit, and may also be shown by more than one ground. The switch 712 may prevent current from flowing through the light source 718 when a sufficient level of light is detected in the room or environment in which the socket cover system is located. For example, when used in a nightlight mode of operation, the sensor 716 may prevent the light source from operating in the event that additional light and a sufficient amount of sunlight enters the room. Alternatively, in the emergency lighting mode of operation, the sensor 716 may be used to conserve the battery 708 and allow the light source to be used for a maximum number of days, hours, and/or minutes. In alternative embodiments of the present disclosure, the battery and/or control circuitry may be considered to be emergency lighting circuitry, while the switch 712 and/or sensor 716 may be considered to be night light circuitry.

Fig. 8A is an illustration of a schematic diagram of a portion of a receptacle cover system 800A. The outlet cover system may have a high power input 802A and a low power input 802B, it being understood that in alternative embodiments, the low power input 802B may also be considered to be ground 860. However, in alternative embodiments, the low power input 802B may be neutral or a second "hot" line of AC voltage. The high power input 802A may be coupled to a fuse 804. The fuse 804 will be of sufficient size to prevent over-current and/or over-voltage within the circuit.

Coupled to the fuse 804 may be a resistor 806, which may have at least one resistance, or may have a combination of resistances in series and/or parallel to produce a particular desired resistance value. The resistor 806 may be coupled with a resistor and/or a capacitor or RC block 808. It will be understood that R in RC represents a resistance or resistor and C represents a capacitance or capacitor. Although the resistors and capacitors are shown in a parallel configuration, the resistors and capacitors may be connected in series, and combinations of series and parallel connections, to produce the desired combination of resistors and capacitors.

The RC block 808 may be coupled between the diode 810A and/or the diode 810C, while the low power input 802B may be coupled between the diode 810B and/or the diode 810D. It will be appreciated that diodes 810A, 810B, 810C, and/or 810D will collectively function as a bridge rectifier 810. The bridge rectifier 810 may be used to convert an AC voltage to a DC voltage. The output of the bridge rectifier 810 may include a diode 812 and/or a capacitor 814, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the diode 812 may be a zener diode, and the capacitor 814 may be in a series and/or parallel configuration or a combination thereof. The voltage regulator 818 may be used to maintain a particular voltage and/or regulate the DC voltage from the bridge rectifier. Capacitor 816 may be used to smooth or remove transients at the input of voltage regulator 818 by coupling the input of voltage regulator 818 to ground through capacitor 816. Similarly, capacitor 820A may be used to smooth or remove transients from the output of voltage regulator 818 by coupling the output of voltage regulator 818 to ground via capacitor 820A. Node a may be used as a reference to a connection or node in the overall circuit that may have the same voltage or current as node a.

Fig. 8B is an illustration of a schematic diagram of a portion of a receptacle cover system 800B. A portion of the socket cover system 800B shown in fig. 8B is connected and/or coupled to a portion of the socket cover system 800A shown in fig. 8A via node a. It will be appreciated that these portions may be one circuit, and/or multiple circuits coupled together.

Node a is coupled to a battery charger 822, which may receive a regulated voltage at its voltage input terminal 822. The output voltage of the battery charger 822 may extend to the battery 830 or at least one battery, as more than one battery may be utilized in alternative embodiments of the present disclosure. The battery charger 822 may have additional inputs and/or outputs. These inputs and outputs may be connected or coupled to ground via resistor 824, resistor 826, and/or capacitor 820B. When connected or coupled to the battery 830, the output of the battery charger 822 may also be coupled or connected to a transistor 832. The second transistor 834 may also be coupled directly or indirectly to the output of the battery charger 822.

Transistor 832 may be coupled to the output of battery charger 822, node a, and/or transistor 834. Transistor 832 is configured to prevent additional voltage and/or current from being connected or coupled to battery 830 at node 868, although transistor 832 may also allow battery 830 to be connected or coupled to a light source. The transistor 834 allows current and/or voltage to be sensed or seen at a sense node 864, which may be located between the transistors 832/834. The first diode 838 may be coupled to node a and the second diode 840 may be coupled to the sensing node 864. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first diode 838 and the second diode 840 may be light emitting diodes or LEDs, however, other light emitting elements may be substituted. The first diode 838 may provide an indication when the socket cover system 800A/800B is connected and/or coupled to a power source or AC voltage. The second diode 840 may provide an indication of when to use the battery in the event of a power failure.

Transistor 834 may be coupled to sensor 842, switch 854, and/or light source 852 at node 866. The sensor 842 may be a light sensor, a photo resistor, a photodiode, a phototransistor, or other form of light detection sensor. Sensor 842 may provide detection of light and/or allow current to pass through when the sensor may sense light. The sensor 842 may be coupled to the comparator 844 and/or the RC block 846. The RC block 846 may be used to smooth or limit the amount of current and/or voltage on the input node of the comparator 844. The comparator 844 may have at least two inputs and at least one output. The first input may be coupled to a sensor 842; the second input may remain floating or have a null value coupled thereto, and the output may be coupled to transistor 828, transistor 850, and/or resistor 848. The output of the comparator may trigger when sensor 842 indicates that sensor 842 is no longer sensing sufficient light in the local environment, alternatively, the comparator may trigger when sensor 842 indicates that sensor 842 is sensing sufficient light in the local environment. The output of comparator 844 may cause transistor 850 to couple light source 852 to ground, allowing current to flow through light source 852.

The light source 852 may include at least one light bulb, wherein the at least one light bulb may be a light emitting diode or LED, or an organic LED or OLED. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the light source 852 may include a light bulb 853A, a light bulb 853B, and/or a light bulb 853C. Light source 852 may be coupled to transistor 850, switch 854, sensor 842, and/or transistor 834. Switch 854 may allow the regulated voltage to be coupled directly or indirectly to light source 852. Switch 854 may be a physical switch that a user may move to instruct the switch to connect or disconnect the regulated voltage from the light source. When the switch is in the open position, the socket cover system 800A/800B may be in an emergency lighting mode of operation, wherein the socket cover system 800A/800B may utilize an emergency light circuit that may include, but is not limited to, a battery 830, a transistor 832/834, and a light source 852. When the switch 854 is in the connected state, the receptacle cover system 800A/800B can operate in a night light mode of operation, wherein the receptacle cover system 800A/800B can utilize night light circuitry that can include, but is not limited to, the sensor 842, the comparator 844, and the light source 852.

The switch may be coupled to a diode block 856, which diode block 856 may be used to prevent voltage and/or current from being seen on the regulated voltage output of the voltage regulator (not shown). The battery charger 822 may have an input connected or coupled to the resistor 826 and/or the transistor 828. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, a transistor 828 may be coupled to the output of the comparator 844. Node a may also be referred to as node a 858.

Fig. 9A is an illustration of a socket cover 900A with a direction indicator 982. The socket cover 900A may have a faceplate 902. The faceplate 902 may define receptacle openings 910A and/or 910B (collectively 910). In some embodiments, the receptacle openings 910 may also include a switch opening, a dimmer opening, a usb receptacle opening, an audio connector opening, a video connector opening, and/or other openings defined by the faceplate 902 that will allow cables and/or connectors to pass through the faceplate. The socket cover 900A may also have an arm 906. In at least one embodiment, the arm 906 includes a conductor received in the arm 906 that allows the socket cover 900A to be coupled to an electrical system (not shown). The electrical system may be a house and/or building electrical system that may include AC and/or DC voltages or currents. The socket cover 900A may be coupled to an electrical socket (not shown) by fasteners (not shown) and fastener openings 912.

In at least one embodiment, the socket cover 900A has a light source 913. The light source 913 may include at least one Light Emitting Diode (LED). In some embodiments, the light source 913 may also have a direction indicator 982. The direction indicators 982 may include arrows that indicate a direction through the right or left side of the axis of the receptacle opening 910 and/or the right or left side of the receptacle cover 900A. The direction indicator 982 may be bi-directional and/or indicate that both directions may be used for exiting, or the direction indicator 982 may comprise a single direction selected by a user prior to installation of the socket cover 900A. In at least one example, the socket cover 900A may have a test button 990. The test button 990 may also include test circuitry (not shown) to allow testing of a power source, such as an AC power source or battery, coupled to the socket cover 900A. The test button 990 may be coupled to a power source and/or a battery.

Fig. 9B is an illustration of a rear perspective view of the socket cover 900B. Socket cover 900B includes a back plate 904. Although back plate 904 may be molded, glued, and/or fastened to a panel (not shown), back plate 904 may also be fastened with fasteners 903A, 903B, 903C, and/or 903D (collectively 903). In some embodiments, one fastener may be used, while in other embodiments, more than one fastener 903 may be used. The back plate 904 may define a receptacle opening 910A and a receptacle opening 910B (collectively 910). The jack openings 910 may also be switch openings, cable connector openings, audio/video connector openings, and/or other openings for various connectors and/or objects. The socket cover 900B may also be fastened to a socket device (not shown) by fasteners (not shown) through quick openings 912 defined by the socket cover 900B. Socket cover 900B may have arms 906A and/or 906B (collectively 906) extending rearward from back plate 904.

The socket cover 900B may also have a first switch 940A and a second switch 940B. In at least one embodiment, the first switch 940A can be used to know in which mode of operation the socket cover 900B operates. For example, the socket cover 900B may operate in a night light mode that turns the lights on when the light level in the room and/or location of the socket cover 900B falls below a threshold, and an emergency lighting mode that turns on when power is not detected at the socket device and the light level falls below a threshold. The second switch 940B may indicate which direction a direction indicator (not shown) may indicate. For example, switch 940B may be in a right or first position indicating that a right arrow is to be indicated, a second or neutral position indicating that two directions are to be indicated, and a third or left position indicating that a left arrow is to be indicated. It will be understood that these directions are for illustrative purposes, and that a right position may indicate a left arrow, and a left position may indicate a right arrow.

Fig. 10 is an illustration of a front view of the socket cover 1000. The socket cover 1000 may include a faceplate 1002. Panel 1002 may have angled sections 1024, 1026, 1028, and/or 1030. Angled sections 1024, 1026, 1028, and/or 1030 may provide support and housing for light source 1014, indicator 1020, sensor 1022, and/or other additional circuitry. The socket cover 1000 may also have flat sections 1032 and/or 1034, which flat sections 1032 and/or 1034 may provide support and housing for the direction indicators 1081A and/or 1081B (collectively 1081) and/or the direction indicators 1082A and/or 1082B (collectively 1082).

The angled and flat sections may also define the receptacle openings 1010A and/or 1010B. In at least one example, the socket cover 1000 can be fastened by fasteners (not shown) in the fastener openings 1012. The socket cover 1000 may also have an indicator 1020 that allows a user to know when the socket cover 1000 is connected to a power source. For example, the indicator may turn green when the socket cover 1000 is connected to power, but may turn red or go out when the socket cover 1000 is not connected to power or a power outage occurs. The socket cover 1000 may also have a sensor 1022 for detecting ambient light. For example, the light source 1014 may be turned off if the light in the room exceeds a threshold level recorded and/or sensed by the sensor 1022. Alternatively, the light source 1014 may be turned on if the light in the room or location falls below a threshold level recorded and/or sensed by the sensor 1022. In at least one embodiment, one or more direction indicators 1080 and/or 1081 may also be activated when the light source 1014 is turned on. In another example, the sensor 1022 may also include an environmental quality sensor, such as a smoke or air quality sensor, when the environmental quality sensor is triggered (air quality below a threshold, or when the smoke sensor detects smoke above a threshold), the two direction indicators 1080 and 1081 will turn on. It should be noted that a user (not shown) may select a single direction, a right direction indicator 1080A and/or 1081A, a left direction indicator 1080B and/or 1081B, or two direction indicators 1080A, 1080B, 1081A, and 1081B. The socket cover 1000 may also have a transmitter 1041, the transmitter 1041 being capable of generating an audible alarm or sound indicating when a power outage occurs or whether there is an environmental condition that should notify a user (not shown). For example, when a fire and/or smoke is detected.

Figure 11 is an illustration of a block diagram of a socket cover system 1100. The outlet cover system 1100 may have an incoming voltage source 1102, and in one embodiment, the incoming voltage source 1102 may be an alternating or AC voltage source. In another embodiment, the pull-in voltage source 1102 may be received by at least one conductor (not shown). The incoming voltage source 1102 may be regulated and/or converted to a DC operating voltage by a voltage regulation circuit 1104 to regulate the incoming voltage from the incoming voltage source 1102. The output of the voltage regulation circuit 1102 may be a regulated voltage 1106. The regulated voltage may be sent, but is not limited to, to the battery 1108, the control circuit 1110, and/or the switch 1112. In an alternative embodiment, the battery 1108 may be coupled and/or connected to a battery charging circuit that may utilize the regulated voltage 1106. The control circuit 1110 may allow the socket cover system 1110 to provide a light source during a power outage by activating the battery and/or opening a connection or coupling between the light source and the battery 1108. In one embodiment, control circuit 1110 may also include switch 1112.

The switch 1112 allows the battery and/or control circuitry 1110 to be bypassed and the regulated voltage delivered to the input voltage node 1114. The switch 1112 may allow for control of the connection between the light source 1118, the battery 1108, and the regulated voltage 1106. The input voltage node 1114 may provide a voltage to the sensor 1116 and/or the light source 1118. The sensor 1116 may be connected to a switch 1120, and the switch 1120 may be connected to the light source 1118, wherein all of these are coupled to the ground 1122. The sensors 1116 may include, but are not limited to, light sensors, photo resistors, photo diodes, and/or photo transistors. The sensor 1116 may activate the switch 1120, allowing the light source 1118 to be activated. Directional indicators 1119A and/or 1119B (collectively 1119) may also be coupled to the switch 1120. In at least one embodiment, the direction indicators 1119A and/or 1119B are light sources and/or Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs). However, other light sources may be used. The direction indicator 1119A may be a right direction indicator in at least one example, and the indicator 1119B may be a left direction indicator in at least one example. The direction indicator 1119 may be controlled and/or activated by switches 1121A and/or 1121B (collectively 1121). In at least one embodiment, the direction indicator 1119 can be controlled by a signal switch 1121. A single switch may allow the direction indicator 1119 to be selected as only the right direction indicator, only the left direction indicator, or both the right and left direction indicators.

Fig. 12 is a front view of the socket cover 1200. The socket cover 1200 may include a faceplate 1202. The panel 1202 may have sloped sections 1224, 1226, 1228, and/or 1230. Sloped sections 1224, 1226, 1228, and/or 1230 may provide support and housing for light source 1214, indicator 1220, sensor 1222, and/or other additional circuitry. The socket cover 1200 may also have flat sections 1232 and/or 1234, and the flat sections 1232 and/or 1234 may provide support and a housing for the direction indicator 1281A and/or 1281B (collectively 1281) and/or the direction indicator 1282A and/or 1282B (collectively 1282). Light sources 1214 may include Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) or other light sources capable of receiving and converting electrical power and/or electrical energy to visible wavelengths. The light source 1214 may extend along the bottom of the socket cover 1200 and along both sides of the socket cover. The portion of light 1214 extending along the sides may emit lateral direction indicators 1283A and/or 1283B on a wall (not shown). Each of lateral direction indicators 1283A and/or 1283B may be used individually or together and may be activated by a switch or a directional control switch (not shown). In at least one example, the socket cover 1200 can also have test equipment 1291A, 1291B, and/or 1291C (collectively 1291) defined by one or more of the flat or angled sections. The test equipment 1291 may allow for the use of a test device (not shown) to verify the strength of the power source coupled to the socket cover 1200.

The angled and flat sections may also define the socket openings 1210A and/or 1210B. In at least one example, the socket cover 1200 can be secured by fasteners (not shown) in the fastener openings 1212. The socket cover 1200 may also have an indicator 1020 that allows a user to know when the socket cover 1200 is connected to a power source. For example, the indicator may turn green when the socket cover 1200 is connected to power, but may turn red or go out when the socket cover 1200 is not connected to power or a power outage occurs. The socket cover 1200 may also have a sensor 1222 for detecting ambient light. For example, if the light in the room exceeds a threshold level recorded and/or sensed by the sensor 1222, the light source 1214 can be turned off. Alternatively, the light source 1214 may be turned on if the light in the room or location falls below a threshold level recorded and/or sensed by the sensor 1222.

In at least one embodiment, one or more directional indicators 1280 and/or 1281 may also be activated when the light source 1214 is turned on. In another example, the sensor 1222 may also include an environmental quality sensor, such as a smoke or air quality sensor, that when triggered (air quality below a threshold, or when the smoke sensor detects smoke above a threshold), the two direction indicators 1280 and 1281 will turn on. It should be noted that a user (not shown) may select a single direction, a right direction indicator 1280A and/or 1281A, a left direction indicator 1280B and/or 1281B, or two direction indicators 1280A, 1280B, 1281A, and 1281B. The receptacle cover 1200 may also have a transmitter 1241, which transmitter 1241 is capable of generating an audible alarm or sound indicating when a power outage occurs or whether there is an environmental condition that should notify a user (not shown). For example, when a fire and/or smoke is detected. In at least one example, directional indicators 1281 and/or 1283, lights 1214, and indicators 1220 can be various colors in the visible spectrum. For example, light sources 1214 may provide light output that is white in color, while directional indicators 1281 and/or 1283 may be red or white.

Fig. 13A is an illustration of a light source 1314 for a socket cover. The light source 1314 may have light bulbs 1344A, 1344B, and/or 1344C that allow light to pass through the lens 1346. In at least one example, the light bulbs 1344A, 1344B and/or the light bulb 1344C are Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs). Light source 1314 may also have indicator bulbs 1386A and/or 1386B. The indicator light bulb may pass through arrow lenses 1385A and/or 1385B. In the event of a power outage or other event, one or both of indicator light bulb 1386 and arrow lens 1382 may be used to send a signal to a user in a particular direction. The light source 1314 may also have clips 1342A and/or 1342B that allow the light source to be secured to and/or within a socket cover (not shown).

Fig. 13B is an illustration of an extended light source 1314 for a socket cover. The light source 1314 may have light bulbs 1344A, 1344B, and/or 1344C that allow light to pass through the lens 1346. In at least one example, the light bulbs 1344A, 1344B, and/or 1344C are Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs). Light source 1314 may also have indicator bulbs 1388A and/or 1388B. The light source 1314 may have extensions 1387A and/or 1387B that allow the light source 1314 to extend along the sides of the socket cover (not shown). Extensions 1387A and/or 1387B may also include indicator light bulbs 1388A and/or 1388B (collectively 1388). In at least one example, indicator light bulb 1388 can be a Light Emitting Diode (LED) or other light emitting device. The light source 1314 may also have clips 1342A and/or 1342B that allow the light source to be secured to and/or within a socket cover (not shown).

While the present disclosure has been particularly shown and described with reference to a preferred embodiment, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The inventors expect skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventors intend for the disclosure to be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, this disclosure includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the invention unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

While various embodiments in accordance with the principles disclosed herein have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not limitation. Thus, the breadth and scope of the present disclosure should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with any claims and their equivalents issuing from the present disclosure. Moreover, the above-described advantages and features are provided in described embodiments, but should not limit the application of these issued claims to processes and structures accomplishing any or all of the above-described advantages.

Additionally, section headings herein are provided for compliance with the 37c.f.r.1.77 recommendation or otherwise to provide organizational cues. These headings should not be used to limit or characterize the invention as set forth in any claims that may issue from this disclosure. In particular, and by way of example, although the headings refer to a "technical field," the claims should not be limited by the language chosen under this heading to describe the so-called field. Furthermore, the description of technology as background information should not be construed as an admission that certain technology is prior art to any embodiments in this disclosure. Neither should the summary be regarded as a characterization of the embodiments set forth in the published claims. Furthermore, any reference in this disclosure to "invention" in the singular should not be used to argue that there is only a single point of novelty in this disclosure. Embodiments may be set forth according to the limitations of the claims issuing from this disclosure, and these claims accordingly define the embodiments claimed and their equivalents. In all cases, the scope of these claims should be considered in light of the present disclosure, with its own advantages, and should not be limited by the headings set forth herein.