Patent ID: 6239692
Filing Date: 2001-05-29
Classification: G10K

Abstract:
A multi-tone sounder comprising in combination:a frame to which are mounted in spaced apart relationship at least a first and a second chime means, each chime means being tuned to a different tone from the other;striker means including an armature mounted to said frame for movement between said first and said second chime means so as to strike said first chime means in a first direction of movement and said second chime means in a second direction of movement;a solenoid coil mounted to said frame and associated with said armature of said striker means and arranged to act thereon to cause said movement in at least one said direction of movement;resilient means arranged to act on said striker means to urge said striker means at least to an equilibrium position between said first and said second chime means and out of contact therewith; andcurrent control means adapted to power said solenoid coil to a high level for a short period sufficient to cause said striker means to strike one of said first and said second chime means and to control the reduction of power from the high level to zero extending over a period of four to seven times the short period, whereby by application of power to said solenoid coil, said striker means is caused to strike one of said first and said second chime means and by an optional gradual reduction of power said striker means returns toward said equilibrium position under influence of said resilient means with insufficient momentum to strike the other of said first and said second chime means.