US 12,257,518 B2 · Sequentially operated modules

Abstract

Method, modules and a system formed by connecting the modules for controlling payloads are disclosed. An activation signal is propagated in the system from a module to the modules connected to it. Upon receiving an activation signal, the module (after a pre-set or random delay) activates a payload associated with it, and transmits the activation signal (after another pre-set or random delay) to one or more modules connected to it. The system is initiated by a master module including a user activated switch producing the activation signal. The activation signal can be propagated in the system in one direction from the master to the last module, or carried bi-directionally allowing two way propagation, using a module which revert the direction of the activation signal propagation direction. A module may be individually powered by an internal power source such as a battery, or connected to external power source such as AC power. The system may use remote powering wherein few or all of the modules are powered from the same power source connected to the system in a single point. The power may be carried over dedicated wires or concurrently with the conductors carrying the activation signal. The payload may be a visual or an audible signaling device, and can be integrated within a module or external to it. The payload may be powered by a module or using a dedicated power source, and can involve randomness associated with its activation such as the delay, payload control or payload activation.

Claims43

Dependent claims

A method for activating a payload in response to sensing a first physical phenomenon and for over-the-air wireless communication with a device, for use with a first module that comprises a first enclosure that houses a sensor, a second module that comprises a second enclosure that houses a first payload, and a third module that comprises a third enclosure that houses a firmware and a processor, the method comprising:

producing, by the sensor, an output signal responsive to the first physical phenomenon;
affecting, by the first payload a second physical phenomenon responsive to a first payload activation signal;
executing, by the processor, the firmware;
receiving, by the processor, the sensor output signal from the first module;
transmitting, by the processor, the first payload activation signal to the second module;
and
transmitting, by a wireless transmitter via an antenna a wireless signal,
wherein the third module is mechanically attachable to the first module and to the second module, and
wherein upon electrically connecting the first and third modules and electrically connecting the second and third modules, activating, by the processor, the first payload in response to the sensing of the first physical phenomenon.

6 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Sequentially operated modules

Life of this patent

Sequentially operated modules

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims43