WO2010080565A1 - Led light bulb - Google Patents

Abstract

A light bulb 300 including an outer shell 306, at least one light emitting diode (LED) 100 mounted on the shell for supplying light upon illumination of the LED, an electrical contact 205, secured to the shell, for coupling the bulb to an external power supply, and circuitry 302 for implementing at least one function in addition to supplying light through illumination of the LED.

Description

LED LIGHT BULB

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of the filing date of United States Provisional Patent Application No. 61/139,069, filed December 19, 2008, and claims the benefit of U.S. Application Serial No. , filed

December 17, 2009, entitled LED LIGHT BULB, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Light bulb technology has been known since the 1800s. Over the course of time this technology has undergone many improvements including modifying the filament material from platinum to carbon, placing the filament in a vacuum, developing the long lasting filament, and eventually replacing the carbon filament with a tungsten filament. With each of these improvements the light bulb's lifetime and function improved to become the modern day incandescent light bulb found in most buildings (e.g., households, schools, offices, factories, etc.) .

[0003] Recently, the incandescent light bulb is being replaced by the fluorescent screw in/bayonet light bulb. This change is because fluorescent light bulbs have a much higher efficiency than incandescent light bulbs. For example, a fluorescent light bulb can produce the same amount of light generated by an incandescent light bulb while using around a half to one third the power of an incandescent light bulb.

[0004] Further, some have begun using light emitting diodes (LEDs) as a replacement for the incandescent and fluorescent light bulbs. In the past, LEDs were used primarily as indicator lights (e.g., in machines) . Now, however, they are beginning to be used as a primary source of lighting in buildings.

[0005] LEDs have numerous benefits over incandescent and fluorescent light bulbs. For example, LEDs come in a wide spectrum of colors providing users with numerous color options for lighting their surroundings. Further, LEDs use substantially less energy and have a substantially longer lifetime than incandescent and fluorescent light bulbs.

Still further, LEDs are substantially smaller than both incandescent light bulbs and fluorescent light bulbs.

However, to use LEDs, buildings either need to have all the light bulb sockets replaced or more pragmatically LEDs need to be retrofitted for preexisting light bulb sockets. To retrofit LEDs some have produced LED light bulbs for preexisting light bulb sockets. These LED light bulbs include an additional volume of space to mimic the size of surroundings previously allocated to the incandescent bulb.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The present invention takes advantage of the additional volume of space available in some LED light bulbs by utilizing the space for other means separate from or in combination with the LEDs in the LED light bulb.

[0007] In view of the above, a light bulb is provided. The light bulb includes an outer shell, at least one light emitting diode (LED) mounted on the shell for supplying light upon illumination of the LED, and an electrical contact, secured to the shell, for coupling the bulb to an external power supply. The light bulb further includes circuitry for implementing at least one function in addition to supplying light through illumination of the LED.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] FIG. 1 illustratively depicts an LED.

[0009] FIG. 2 illustratively depicts an incandescent light bulb in a socket.

[0010] FIG. 3 illustratively depicts an LED light bulb in a socket in accordance with the present invention.

[0011] FIG. 4 illustratively depicts an LED light bulb including a backup battery in accordance with the present invention . [0012] FIG. 5 illustratively depicts an LED light bulb including a backup battery and/or a detector/sensor in accordance with the present invention.

[0013] FIG. 6 illustratively depicts an LED light bulb including a backup battery and/or an audio and/or video device in accordance with the present invention.

[0014] FIG. 7 illustratively depicts an LED light bulb including a backup battery and/or a communication device in accordance with the present invention.

[0015] FIG. 8 illustratively depicts an LED light bulb including a backup battery and/or a visual device in accordance with the present invention.

[0016] FIG. 9 illustratively depicts an LED light bulb including a backup battery and/or a repeater in accordance with the present invention.

[0017] FIG. 10 illustratively depicts an LED light bulb including a backup battery and/or a thermometer in accordance with the present invention.

[0018] FIG. 11 is a block diagram representing embodiments of an LED light bulb in association with external elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] The aspects, features and advantages of the present invention will be appreciated when considered with reference to the following description of embodiments and accompanying figures. In describing the embodiments of the invention illustrated in the figures, specific terminology will be used for the sake of clarity. However, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each term selected includes all technical equivalents that operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar purpose.

[0020] The LED light bulb described herein can be used as a replacement bulb that fits into a preexisting light bulb socket (e.g., screw thread socket, bayonet socket, etc.) . As indicated above, because LEDs are substantially smaller than incandescent and fluorescent light bulbs, retrofitted LED light bulbs include an additional volume of unused space in the form of a hollow or solid body. Unlike previous LED light bulbs, the LED light bulb described herein takes advantage of the additional volume of space. Within this additional volume of space this invention includes numerous additional features such as, but not limited to, a back up battery, detector/sensor, audio device, communication device, camera, and/or repeater which can be used alone or in conjunction with the LEDs.

[0021] Referring to FIG. 1, a standard LED is displayed. LED 100 includes a chip 110 (i.e., a semiconducting material impregnated, or doped, with impurities to create a p-n junction), a lead frame 112, a reflective cup 114, and a lens 116 (e.g., an epoxy lens) . In use, current flows from anode 118 (i.e., positive side) to cathode 120 (i.e., negative side) thus charge-carriers—electrons and holes flow into the junction from electrodes with different voltages. When an electron meets a hole, it falls into a lower energy level, and releases energy in the form of a photon thereby producing visible light. It will be understood that LED 100 can include any form of LED.

[0022] Referring to FIG. 2, an incandescent light bulb 200 is depicted located in an American/European style light bulb socket 210. Most modern buildings have been built to include numerous light bulb sockets similar to light bulb socket 210. This has been done because incandescent light bulbs have stood as the norm in lighting for approximately the past 100 years. In order to utilize the preexisting light bulb socket 210, LED light bulbs have been created to mate with the preexisting light bulb socket 210.

[0023] Referring to FIG. 3, an exemplary LED light bulb 300 is depicted located in light bulb socket 210. As shown, LED light bulb 300 includes a plurality of LEDs 100 for providing light to a user. Further, LED light bulb 300 has been designed to work within the confines of a standard light bulb socket 210. That is, LED light bulb 300 includes circuitry 302 that converts line voltage (e.g., 120 Volts with a βOhertz frequency for the USA, 220 Volts with a frequency of 50 hertz for other countries, or any other line voltage) to the voltage needed for LEDs 100 (e.g., about 1 to 3 Volts, 5 to 5OmA) . However, aside from the circuitry, volume 304 remains substantially empty or filled with material. According to the present invention volume 304 is the volume that is available for uses in addition to the normal lighting circuitry, etc. That is, LED light bulb 300 includes an outer shell 306 creating empty volume 304 which can be used for other or complementary uses in accordance with the present invention. The LEDs are mounted on the outer shell, and an electrical contact 205 is secured to the shell for coupling the bulb to an external power supply. The electrical contact may be affixed to the shell or may be an integral part of the shell. Also, a sleeve 203 is provided for securing the light bulb in the socket. The sleeve may be affixed to the shell or may be an integral part of the shell. Further, the sleeve may be affixed to the electrical contact or may be integral with the electrical contact. [0024] Referring to FIG. 4, in some embodiments, LED light bulb 400 includes a backup battery or other charge storage device 402. As shown, backup battery 400 is located within the space needed to retrofit LED light bulb 400 into light bulb socket 210. Backup battery 400 can be a regular or rechargeable battery that is charged by voltage supplied from light bulb socket 210 (i.e., line voltage or voltage supplied through circuitry 404) . Backup battery 400 is in connection with circuitry 404 which controls and provides power to LEDs 100. Thus, LEDs 100 can be powered by electricity coming from the light bulb socket 210 (i.e., line voltage converted by circuitry 404) or by electricity coming from backup battery 402.

[0025] In some embodiments, when power is not supplied via line voltage (e.g., during a power outage) circuitry 404 switches power from light bulb socket 210 to backup battery 402. Thus, during a power outage LED light bulb 400 continues to illuminate. In other embodiments, when LED light bulb 400 is powered by backup battery 402, circuitry 404 does not provide power to each of LEDs 100. For example, during a power outage backup battery 402 can be used to power only one or a few of LEDs 100. Alternatively, circuitry 404 may determine the amount of power remaining in backup battery 402 and adjust the number of LEDs 100 powered. For example, when backup battery 402 has greater than 75% of its total power available, all LEDs 100 can be powered, however, when less than 75% of backup battery 402 power remains, circuitry 404 may incrementally lessen the number of LEDs 100 that receive power. Further, circuitry 404 may provide less power to each of the LEDs in order to conserve energy in backup battery 402. Instead of lessening the number of LEDs powered, brightness can be modulated by controlling the amount of current supplied to the LEDs.

[0026] Referring to FIG. 5, in some embodiments, LED light bulb 500 includes backup battery 402 and/or detector/sensor 502. As shown, backup battery 402 and detector/sensor 502 are located within the normally unused space needed to retrofit LED light bulb 500 into light bulb socket 210. Detector/sensor 502 can include any of a smoke detector

(e.g., optical smoke detector, ionization smoke detector, air-sampling smoke detector, etc.), carbon monoxide detector

(e.g., electrochemical carbon monoxide detector, semiconductor carbon monoxide detector, etc.), carbon dioxide detector (e.g., nondispersive infrared carbon dioxide detector, chemical carbon dioxide detector, etc.), radon detector, motion detector (e.g., passive infrared motion detector, ultrasonic motion detector, microwave motion detector, etc.), radiation detector, light detector, infrared detector (e.g., any a photodetector that reacts to infrared

(IR) radiation), ultrasonic detector, or any other detector deemed suitable. [0027] In some embodiments, detector/sensor 502 can be powered by backup battery 402 and/or voltage supplied by light bulb socket 210 (e.g., line voltage or voltage adjusted by circuitry 404) . Further, LEDs 100 can be powered by backup battery 402 in the event of, for example, a power failure. Further still, because detector/sensor 502 can be powered by line voltage or backup battery 402, in the event of a power outage detector/sensor 502 can still function. [0028] In some embodiments, detector/sensor 502 can include a speaker (not shown) for producing a sound in the event that smoke, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, radon, radiation, or any other danger is detected/sensed. In an alternative embodiment, because detector/sensor 502 is in communication with circuitry 404 if a danger is detected/sensed LEDs 100 can illuminate in such a way as to alert a user of the danger. For example, if a danger is detected/sensed LEDs 100 can flash or colored LEDs could light up. In other embodiments, if a danger is detected/sensed LEDs could alert authorities (e.g., fire officers) to the location of the danger by lighting up. That is, because most buildings have numerous light fixtures having LED light bulb 500 in numerous location could more quickly indicate to an authority where a specific danger is located. For example, if LED light bulb 500 is located in a bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom, and a fire occurred in the bedroom, authorities would notice that only the LED light bulb 500 in the bedroom is indicating danger. Alternatively you could have both audio and visible alarms.

[0029] In an alternative embodiment, because detector/sensor 502 is in communication with circuitry 404 if a detector/sensor 502 is a light detector LEDs 100 can turn on or off depending on the surrounding light level. For example, at night LEDs 100 could turn on automatically. [0030] Referring to FIG. 6, in some embodiments, LED light bulb 600 can include backup battery 402 and/or an audio device. The audio device can include, but is not limited to, a speaker 602 and/or microphone (s) 604 (e.g., a condenser, capacitor or electrostatic microphone; electret condenser microphone; dynamic microphones; carbon microphones; piezoelectric microphone; laser microphones; MEMS microphone; etc.) . In some embodiments, the audio device (e.g., speaker 602 and microphone 604) can be powered by backup battery 402 and/or voltage supplied by light bulb socket 210 (e.g., line voltage or voltage adjusted by circuitry 404) . Further, LED light bulb 600 can include either, or both of, speaker 602 or microphone 604. In some alternative embodiments, the audio device can be in communication with memory for storing announcements, music, recording, etc.

[0031] In some embodiments, microphone 604 can be used to pick up ordinary sounds (e.g., conversations, music, etc.) or extraordinary sounds (e.g., high pitched sounds, sounds of frequencies that are outside of the audible frequency range for human ears, etc.) . For example, microphone or microphone array 604 can be designed to pick up high pitched sounds such as glass breaking thereby aiding a theft deterrent system (not shown) located in a building. In an alternative embodiment, the audio device can be combined with circuitry 404 to illuminate at least some, or all, of LEDs 100 based on inputs from the audio device. For example, if speaker 602 is playing music, circuitry 404 could alternate LEDs 100 (e.g., in coordination with the music, changing colors, creating a strobe light, etc.) . Alternatively, if microphone 604 detects a sound, circuitry 404 could turn on LEDs 100 acting as a theft deterrent system or as a way to light a room for a passing user. If multiple LEDs are used, the light output could automatically be directed based on the sound source direction. For example, if multiple microphones are used in an array, the direction of the source of the sound can be determined and illumination controlled accordingly. [0032] Referring to FIG. 7, in some embodiments, LED light bulb 700 includes backup battery 402 and/or communication device 702. Communication device 702 can include, but is not limited to, a wifi/bluetooth router, cell phone router/repeater, or any other communication deemed suitable. In some embodiments, communication device 702 can be powered by backup battery 402 and/or voltage supplied by light bulb socket 210 (e.g., line voltage or voltage adjusted by circuitry 404) . Further, communication device 702 can be in communication with circuitry 404 controlling LEDs 100. For example, if communication device 702 is a wifi/bluetooth router the level of traffic across that router could be shown by illuminating the LEDs (e.g., varying which LEDs are illuminated, illuminating colored LEDs based on traffic, etc . ) .

[0033] Referring to FIG. 8, in some embodiments, LED light 800 includes backup battery 402 and/or visual device 802. Visual device 802 can include any visual device such as, but not limited to, a still camera (e.g., digital camera, pinhole camera, pocket camera, single-lens reflex camera, twin-lens reflex camera, etc.) or video camera (e.g., closed-circuit television camera, digital camera, security camera etc.) . In some embodiments, visual device 802 can be powered by backup battery 402 and/or voltage supplied by light bulb socket 210

(e.g., line voltage or voltage adjusted by circuitry 404) . Further, in some embodiments, visual device 802 can be in communication with a detector/sensor (not shown) . For example, if a detector/sensor (not shown) picks up motion, visual device 802 could turn on thereby recording, or alternatively streaming, the surroundings. Further, visual device 802 can be in communication with circuitry 404 controlling LEDs 100. For example, if visual device 802 is used with a detector/sensor (not shown) and motion is detected/sensed LEDs 100 could illuminate and visual device 802 could record, or alternatively stream, the surroundings. Visual device 802 (e.g., a camera) provides numerous benefits. For example, the visual device 802 is difficult to detect because it could be substantially hidden. An additional benefit is that power is readily available for visual device 802. That is, because power is already provided in the vicinity no further wiring is needed for a camera to protect a building.

[0034] Referring to FIG. 9, in some embodiments, LED light 900 includes backup battery 402 and/or repeater 902. Repeater 902 can be any electronic device that receives a signal and retransmits it (e.g., retransmits at the same level and/or power, retransmits at a higher level and/or higher power, retransmits around an obstruction, etc.) so that the signal can cover a longer distances without degradation. In some embodiments, repeater 902 can be powered by backup battery 402 and/or voltage supplied by light bulb socket 210 (e.g., line voltage or voltage adjusted by circuitry 404) .

[0035] Referring to FIG. 10, in some embodiments, LED light bulb 1000 includes backup battery 402 and/or thermometer 1002. Thermometer 1002 can be any thermometer (e.g., alcohol thermometer, beckmann differential thermometer, Bi-metal mechanical thermometer, coulomb blockade thermometer, infrared thermometer, liquid crystal thermometer, mercury-in-glass thermometer, resistance thermometer, reversing thermometer, silicon bandgap temperature sensor. six's thermometer or maximum minimum thermometer, thermistor, thermocouple, etc.) . In some embodiments, if thermometer 1002 requires power, thermometer 1002 can be powered by backup battery 402 and/or voltage supplied by light bulb socket 210 (e.g., line voltage or voltage adjusted by circuitry 404) . Further, thermometer 1002 can be in communication with circuitry 404 controlling LEDs 100. For example, LEDs 100 can alternate (varying which LEDs are illuminated, illuminating colored LEDs based on temperature, flash if the temperature becomes unsafe, etc.) based on the surrounding temperature.

[0036] Further, in some embodiments, although described as having the above additional components (e.g., battery, detector/sensor, audio device, communication device, camera, and/or repeater, etc.) contained within the LED light bulb, in some instances the additional components may require additional space which is added extending beyond the original space. That is, additional space may be added to the LED light bulb if needed. For example, while the LED light bulb may emulate a light bulb it could be larger, smaller, or an additional shape.

[0037] Further, although depicted as having a plurality of LED lights in the light bulb, it will be understood that the LED light bulb can contain any number of LEDs ranging from one to many thousands. It will be understood that any of the above additional features (e.g., battery, detector/sensor, audio device, communication device, camera, and/or repeater, etc.) implemented in the LED light bulb could be combined or separated. While examples of additional features have been given above, such as, but not limited to, a light detector

(e.g., bulb can automatically turn on when it gets dark), motion/infrared/ultrasonic detector (e.g., to detect when someone enters a room or approaches a building) , microphone

(e.g., for recording or streaming conversations); camera

(e.g., for recording or streaming), speaker and memory (e.g., for stored announcements or music) , thermometer, audio/video recording, and wireless communication (e.g., wifi/bluetooth) , repeater (wifi/bluetooth) other embodiments are envisioned without deviating from the scope of the invention. Further, it is envisioned that the circuitry described in this invention can be designed to be controlled by a user. For example, a user can change settings on the circuitry by a switch located on the LED light bulb or by a controller.

[0038] Referring now to FIG. 11, there is shown a block diagram representing embodiments of an LED light bulb in association with external elements. In the figure, elements included as part of the light bulb are enclosed within block 1100. The external elements shown are an alternating current

(AC) power supply 1105, an on/off switch 1110, and a dimmer 1115. It should be noted that embodiments of the invention may include various combinations of the elements shown in FIG. 11. The various combinations will be readily apparent to one skilled in the art after reviewing this disclosure. It should be further noted that a direct current (DC) power supply could be substituted for the AC power supply. [0039] As can be seen from FIG. 11, the elements included as part of the light bulb include a low power AC/DC converter 1120, an AC power converter 1125, an AC/DC power converter 1130, and LEDs 1135. The two LEDs shown in the figure are merely illustrative, and as an alternative the embodiments of the light bulb may include a number of LEDs other than two. Further the AC/DC power converter 1130 may or may not include a heat sink.

[0040] In any event, the low power AC/DC converter may be used to convert AC power from supply 1105 into DC power suitable for use by other light bulb elements. In one embodiment, the AC power supply is a 120V, 60Hz AC supply and converter 1120 converts a 120V, 60Hz AC signal into one or more DC signals. In another embodiment, the AC power supply is a 240V, 50Hz AC supply and converter 1120 converts a 240V, 50Hz AC signal into one or more DC signals.

[0041] The AC power converter 1125 may be used to reduce the amplitude of an AC signal from supply 1105 such that an output of converter 1125 can be used to drive the bulb's LEDs. As an alternative, converter 1125 may convert the signal from supply 1105 into a pulse width modulated (PWM) signal suitable for driving the LEDs. In addition, such PWM may be used in combination with a reduction in the amplitude of the signal supplied by supply 1105. It should be noted, that it is also possible to drive the LEDs directly with the output of supply 1105, although in general such an arrangement would be suitable only for driving a large number of LEDs connected in series. In another embodiment, AC power converter 1125 can rectify the AC signal it receives from supply 1105 and provide the rectified signal for powering the LEDs. For example, in a case of a 1 volt drop across each LED, the AC power converter receives a 120V AC signal, half- wave rectifies and low-pass filters the AC signal to produce a DC signal of approximately 50V, and uses the 50V DC signal to power 50 LEDs connected in series. Providing power to the LEDs by rectifying the AC signal is inexpensive and efficient, and allows for an inexpensive LED bulb having a large number of inexpensive LEDs.

[0042] The AC/DC power converter 1130 may be used to convert an AC signal from supply 1105 into a DC signal suitable for driving the LEDs 1135. In one embodiment, converter 1130 is used to provide a relatively low level DC voltage for driving a single LED (which may be a high output LED) or a small number of LEDs. For example, AC/DC power converter 1130 receives a 120V AC signal, steps down the AC signal to a low voltage DC signal, and uses the low voltage DC signal to drive a single high-power LED, a few LEDs connected in series, or a few LEDs connected in parallel. [0043] The AC power converter 1125 and the AC/DC power converter 1130 may be used in combination. For example, the AC power converter 1125 may be used to drive a large number of series-connected LEDs for providing "normal" lighting, while the AC/DC power converter 1130 may be alternatively used to drive a single LED for providing "night" lighting. In another example, converter 1130 may be used to drive a small number of colored LEDs to provide "mood" lighting. [0044] Other elements included in FIG. 11 include a battery 1140, a central processing unit (CPU) 1145, and additional function units 1150. The battery may be a rechargeable battery that is supplied with a charging signal from low power AC/DC converter 1120. Alternatively, the battery may be a non-rechargeable battery. Moreover, a capacitor may be used in lieu of the battery. In any event, the battery may supply backup power to one or more of the other elements shown in FIG. 11. In this regard, it is noted that some applications of the light bulb require constant power (e.g. when a smoke detector is included in the bulb) and the battery can be used to provide power for such applications when the bulb is off (i.e. when power is not flowing to the bulb from power supply 1105) . Other applications require only the substitution of battery power for power from supply 1105. For instance, when the bulb is being used to provide "normal" lighting and supply 1105 fails, power from the battery may be substituted for power from supply 1105 so as to enable the bulb to continue to provide "normal" lighting in the absence of power from supply 1105. The amount of time that the battery charge can be used to provide illumination can be extended by powering fewer LEDs, powering the LEDs at low current, or by turning the LEDs on and off periodically. An example of battery 1140 is battery 402, which is described in connection with FIGS. 4- 10.

[0045] The additional function units may include a microphone, a camera, a loudspeaker, a smoke detector, a motion detector, an infrared detector, a wireless relay device, and a storage means (e.g. for recording audio/video/temperature/etc) . Embodiments of these additional function units, and their attendant circuitry, have been described in connection with FIGs. 2-10. For example, the microphone may be microphone 604, the camera may be visual device 802, the loudspeaker may be speaker 602, each of the smoke detector, motion detector and infrared detector may be detector/sensor 502, and the wireless relay device may be communication device 702. In addition, it is noted that for each type of function unit more than one unit may be included in the light bulb such that, for instance, the additional function units may include a multiple of microphones or a multiple of speakers. In any case, power for the additional function units may be provided by low power AC/DC converter 1120.

[0046] Control of the additional function units may be provided through CPU 1145. The CPU may include an internal memory or may access an external memory (not shown) . The CPU is provided with primary power from the low power AC/DC converter, and is provided with backup power from battery 1140. The CPU may also be used to control AC power converter 1125 and AC/DC power converter 1130. Control inputs may be provided to the CPU from a flip counter 1155 and/or a pulse width detector 1160. Further, it should be noted that an application-specific processor could be provided in lieu of a CPU. Still further, it should be noted that some of the functions that may be implemented by the function units require neither a CPU nor an application-specific processor. [0047] The flip counter may be used in conjunction with on/off switch 1110. In such an embodiment, the flip counter counts the number of times the on/off switch is toggled and provides the count to the CPU. The CPU then cross-references the count to a predetermined operation and initiates the operation. For example, if the count indicates that the on/off switch was toggled once the CPU sends a command to the AC power converter 1125 to drive a large number of series- connected LEDs for providing "normal" lighting; if the count indicates that the switch was toggled twice the CPU sends a command to the AC/DC power converter 1130 to drive a small number of LEDS to provide "mood" lighting; and if the count indicates that the switch was toggled three times the CPU sends a command to converter 1130 to drive a single LED for providing "night" lighting. In an alternative embodiment, brightness control is realized with a light bulb that employs a single high power LED by controlling the current. In one such embodiment the current is set according to the number of times the on/off switch is toggled. In another alternative embodiment, the number of switch toggles is used to determine the length of time that the bulb is lit. For example, flipping the switch once (from OFF to ON) may light the bulb as is normal, whereas flipping the switch from ON to OFF to ON may indicate to the CPU that the bulb should be lit for a predetermined length of time only. In the case of ON-OFF-ON, even though the switch remains in the ON position, the light is turned off after a predetermined period of time. In addition, the number of flips could be used to select the length of time that the bulb should be lit by effecting selection from among a set of predetermined times. Moreover, if multiple LEDs are employed, switch flips can be used to select among subsets of the LEDs, thereby enabling the user to control the directivity of the illumination. [0048] In an alternative embodiment, the flip counter is used with an application-specific processor to control brightness, lighting period and/or directivity. In still another alternative embodiment, the flip counter is used to control brightness, lighting period and/or directivity without the aid of a CPU or application-specific processor. In the embodiment that does not employ a CPU or application- specific processor, the flip counter outputs signals directly to AC power converter 1125 and/or AC/DC power converter 1130. [0049] In some embodiments the flip counter may have a power storage capability for purposes of keeping the count. A battery may be provided for such purposes. In an alternative, the flip counter may draw power from a bulb backup battery. In another alternative embodiment no battery is provided and yet the flip counter must detect the number of times the switch is flipped within a short period of time. A capacitor can hold the charge required to power the flip counter for this short time period. Accordingly, in some embodiments the bulb includes a capacitor for storing charge.

[0050] Referring back to FIG. 11, the pulse width detector 1160 may be used in conjunction with dimmer 1115. In such an embodiment, the dimmer pulse-width-modulates the AC power signal generated by power supply 1105, the pulse width detector 1160 analyzes the modulated signal to determine a level of modulation, and the pulse width detector provides an indication of the level of modulation to the CPU. That is, the pulse width detector determines the width of the pulses provided from dimmer 1115 and provides a pulse width indication signal to the CPU. Based on the pulse width indication signal, the CPU sets the desired intensity of the light provided by the bulb. In an alternative embodiment, the pulse width indication signal is used to control some other function of the bulb. For example, as the dimmer switch is rotated the direction of illumination can change. In such an embodiment, the pulse width indication signal is used to select among subsets of LEDs, the subsets being configured to provide illumination in respective directions, thereby enabling the user to control the direction of illumination. [0051] Many types of lighting control are possible through the use of CPU 1145, flip counter 1155, pulse width detector 1160, and one or more of converters 1125 and 1130. In one embodiment, the intensity of light output by the LEDs (e.g. "normal," "mood" or "night") is controlled by the CPU issuing a command directing converter 1125 to output a pulse width modulated signal corresponding to the desired intensity. In such an embodiment, the CPU may receive an indication of the desired level from the flip counter and/or pulse width detector. In another embodiment, the CPU responds to input from the flip counter and/or pulse width detector by issuing a command to make converter 1125 and/or converter 1130 turn on and off such that the LEDs blink. In still another embodiment, the LEDs include LEDs of more than one color and the CPU issues commands to converter 1125 and/or converter 1130 to selectively turn on LEDs of a given color. Further, the CPU may issue commands to converter 1125 and/or converter 1130 to illuminate one or more LEDs for only a predetermined period of time. Still further, the CPU may issue commands to converter 1125 and/or converter 1130 to selectively illuminate subsets of the LEDs for purposes of providing directional illumination.

[0052] Particular embodiments described in reference to FIGS. 1-11 include the following.

[0053] A light bulb comprising an outer shell; at least one light emitting diode (LED) mounted on the shell for supplying light upon illumination of the LED; an electrical contact, secured to the shell, for coupling the bulb to an external power supply; and circuitry for implementing at least one function in addition to supplying light through illumination of the LED.

[0054] The light bulb as described in paragraph [0050], wherein the circuitry comprises a battery for supplying backup power to at least one LED.

[0055] The light bulb as described in paragraph [0050], wherein the circuitry comprises an AC power converter for supplying power to at least one LED.

[0056] The light bulb as described in paragraph [0050], wherein the circuitry comprises an AC/DC power converter for supplying power to at least one LED.

[0057] The light bulb as described in paragraph [0050], wherein the circuitry comprises a CPU for controlling operation of at least one LED.

[0058] The light bulb as described in paragraph [0054], wherein the circuitry further comprises a flip counter for counting toggles of a switch associated with the light bulb and providing the count to the CPU such that the CPU can control at least one LED based on the count.

[0059] The light bulb as described in paragraph [0055], wherein the CPU controls at least one of a period of time for which at least one LED is illuminated and a directivity of the illumination provided by the bulb.

[0060] The light bulb as described in paragraph [0054], further comprising a pulse width detector for analyzing a pulse width modulation applied to a supply providing AC power to the light bulb, determining a level of modulation, and providing an indication of the level of modulation to the CPU such that the CPU can control the at least one LED based on the indication.

[0061] The light bulb as described in paragraph [0057], wherein the CPU controls at least one of a period of time for which at least one LED is illuminated and a directivity of the illumination provided by the bulb. [0062] The light bulb as described in paragraph [0050], wherein the circuitry comprises a CPU and at least one additional function unit, the CPU controlling operation of at least one additional function unit.

[0063] The light bulb as described in paragraph [0059], wherein the circuitry further comprises a low power AC/DC power converter for providing power for the CPU and at least one additional function unit.

[0064] The light bulb as described in paragraph [0059], wherein the circuitry further comprises a battery for providing backup power to the CPU and the at least one additional function unit.

[0065] The light bulb as described in paragraph [0061], wherein the battery is a rechargeable battery and the circuitry further comprises a low power AC/DC power converter for providing power for the CPU, the at least one additional function unit, and the battery.

[0066] The light bulb as described in paragraph [0050], wherein the circuitry comprises one or more microphones.

[0067] The light bulb as described in paragraph [0050], wherein the circuitry comprises one or more cameras.

[0068] The light bulb as described in paragraph [0050], wherein the circuitry comprises one or more loudspeakers.

[0069] The light bulb as described in paragraph [0050], wherein the circuitry comprises a smoke detector.

[0070] The light bulb as described in paragraph [0050], wherein the circuitry comprises a motion detector.

[0071] The light bulb as described in paragraph [0050], wherein the circuitry comprises a wireless relay device.

[0072] The light bulb as described in paragraph [0050], wherein the circuitry comprises an infrared detector.

[0073] Although the invention herein has been described with reference to particular embodiments, it is to be understood that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and applications of the present invention. It is therefore to be understood that numerous modifications may be made to the illustrative embodiments and that other arrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims .

Claims

1. A light bulb comprising: an outer shell; at least one light emitting diode (LED) mounted on the shell for supplying light upon illumination of the LED; an electrical contact, secured to the shell, for coupling the bulb to an external power supply; and circuitry for implementing at least one function in addition to supplying light through illumination of the LED.

2. The light bulb as recited in claim 1, wherein the circuitry comprises a battery for supplying backup power to at least one LED.

3. The light bulb as recited in claim 1, wherein the circuitry comprises an AC power converter for supplying power to at least one LED.

4. The light bulb as recited in claim 1, wherein the circuitry comprises an AC/DC power converter for supplying power to at least one LED.

5. The light bulb as recited in claim 1, wherein the circuitry comprises a CPU for controlling operation of at least one LED.

6. The light bulb as recited in claim 5, wherein the circuitry further comprises a flip counter for counting toggles of a switch associated with the light bulb and providing the count to the CPU such that the CPU can control at least one LED based on the count .

7. The light bulb as recited in claim 6, wherein the CPU controls at least one of a period of time for which at least one LED is illuminated and a directivity of the illumination provided by the bulb.

8. The light bulb as recited in claim 5, further comprising a pulse width detector for analyzing a pulse width modulation applied to a supply providing AC power to the light bulb, determining a level of modulation, and providing an indication of the level of modulation to the CPU such that the CPU can control at least one LED based on the indication.

9. The light bulb as recited in claim 8, wherein the CPU controls at least one of a period of time for which at least one LED is illuminated and a directivity of the illumination provided by the bulb.

10. The light bulb as recited in claim 1, wherein the circuitry comprises a CPU and at least one additional function unit, the CPU controlling operation of at least one additional function unit.

11. The light bulb as recited in claim 10, wherein the circuitry further comprises a low power AC/DC power converter for providing power for the CPU and at least one additional function unit.

12. The light bulb as recited in claim 10, wherein the circuitry further comprises a battery for providing backup power to the CPU and the at least one additional function unit .

13. The light bulb as recited in claim 12, wherein the battery is a rechargeable battery and the circuitry further comprises a low power AC/DC power converter for providing power for the CPU, the at least one additional function unit, and the battery.

14. The light bulb as recited in claim 1, wherein the circuitry comprises one or more microphones.

15. The light bulb as recited in claim 1, wherein the circuitry comprises one or more cameras.

16. The light bulb as recited in claim 1, wherein the circuitry comprises one or more loudspeakers.

17. The light bulb as recited in claim 1, wherein the circuitry comprises a smoke detector.

18. The light bulb as recited in claim 1, wherein the circuitry comprises a motion detector.

19. The light bulb as recited in claim 1, wherein the circuitry comprises a wireless relay device.

20. The light bulb as recited in claim 1, wherein the circuitry comprises an infrared detector.