Patent ID: 6518707
Filing Date: 2003-02-11
Classification: H05B

Abstract:
A method for indicating a non functioning lamp or socket in a string of miniature electrical lights comprising the steps of:(a) providing a plurality of miniature sockets, each socket having disposed therein a miniature lamp, the socket and its respective lamp connected in a series circuit; (b) providing a plurality of resistors with thermochromic paint applied over the resistor, one resistor for each of the miniature lamps; (c) electrically connecting one of the resistors in parallel with each one of the miniature lamps in the series circuit; (d) automatically providing an electrical signal to the resistor connected in parallel with its respective miniature lamp when the lamp malfunctions; and (e) energizing the resistor responsive to the electrical signal thereby increasing the temperature of the resistor, and the thermochromic paint changing its physical appearance when the thermochromic paint reaches a threshold temperature responsive to its energization thereby indicating which lamp is not functioning.