Abstract:
An apparatus and method for creating electronically simulated flames is disclosed. The apparatus includes features to allow for remote control of multiple electronic flame apparatuses with hand held transmitters and/or computer control with the use of a transceiver. The apparatus can employ incandescent and LED type bulbs or lamps to create a variety of color and brightness conditions. An Internet-based portal is also disclosed to allow for remote access by authorized users.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     The present disclosure relates to a method and apparatus for remotely controlling lighting systems. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a method and apparatus for remotely controlling lighting systems with radio frequency, infrared, line carrier technologies and direct data signals. 
     DESCRIPTION OF THE ART 
     Incandescence bulb candles have been in use for over 20 years with very little change in their function and design over that period. Some of these designs involve replaceable one-time use or rechargeable batteries. The rechargeable type candles are typically placed into a recharging device that may accept one unit by having a single recharging adaptor for each candle or the charger device may handle multiple candle units at a time. The candle will turn on when removed from the charger unit, or when turned on with a mechanical switch. These candles typically have an illumination time of 6-8 hours before needing to be recharged for a period of about 8 hours. What is needed and what is disclosed herein is an apparatus and method for remotely controlling and configuring electronically simulated flames for use in commercial and residential settings. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In one aspect of the present disclosure, a simulated electronic flame apparatus is disclosed in which the apparatus is remotely controlled using IR and other communication media to control the, duration, brightness, color and intensity characteristics of an electronically produced light, or illumination source, to mimic the characteristics of natural flame. The apparatus can be controlled remotely by a hand held transmitter or by a computer-based control system. 
     In another aspect of the disclosure, piezo sensors are used to detect and monitor ambient air currents contacting the flame apparatus so as to adjust the lighting elements to mimic the effects of air currents on exposed natural flames. The sensors are arranged in the apparatus so as to monitor air movement in multiple directions. 
     In a further aspect of the disclosure, touch screen displays are provided to set candle lighting profiles that accommodate a wide variety of settings such as brightness, flickering and duration. Profiles are configured and saved in a database for ease of retrieval and use. 
     In a yet further aspect of the disclosure, an Internet-based portal is used to remotely access electronic candle apparatuses. The portal is configured to require pass codes to allow access to the system. Access to multiple accounts is given to system distributors and service specialists. These and other aspects of the disclosure will become apparent from a review of the appended drawings and the detailed description. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a flow diagram showing a remotely controlled lighting system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 2  is a diagram showing components of a remotely controlled lamp according to one embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 3  shows magnet and tilt configurations for a remotely controlled lamp according to one embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 4  shows a circuit diagram for a simulated electronic flame apparatus according to one embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 5  are multiple perspective and partial sectional views of an electronic candle holder base and subsections according to one embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 6  shows a side elevational view and a top view of an electronic holder base and electronic candle assembly according to one embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 7  shows a scene configuration screen according to another embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 8  shows a system flow chart for Internet accessed system portal according to one embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 9  shows a circuit diagram for a simulated electronic flame apparatus according to one embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 10  shows multiple views of conventional liquid fuel and substituted electronic candle lighting according to one embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 11  is an electronic candle profile setting block diagram according to one embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 12  is an RGB LED electronic candle color setting block diagram according to one embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 13  is an electronic candle brightness and flicker setting block diagram according to one embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 14  is an electronic candle shut down sequence block diagram according to one embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 15  is an electronic candle low brightness subroutine block diagram according to another embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 16  is an electronic candle high brightness subroutine block diagram according to a further embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 17  is an electronic candle color wash subroutine block diagram according to an alternate embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 18  is an electronic candle color select subroutine block diagram according to an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 19  is an electronic candle setting memory subroutine block diagram according to an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 20  is an electronic candle alternate setting memory subroutine block diagram according to an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 20   a  is an electronic candle on/off timer subroutine block diagram according to a further embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 21  is an electronic candle interrupt service subroutine block diagram according to an embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 22  is an electronic candle timer interrupt subroutine block diagram according to one embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 23  is an electronic candle watchdog interrupt subroutine block diagram according to another embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 24  is an electronic candle alarm subroutine block diagram according to one embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 25  is a light brightness flicker graph showing a flicker up/down algorithm according to another embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 26  is a flow diagram showing a remote controlled lighting system with a plurality of integrated lamp/data transport router assemblies in a network environment according to another embodiment of the disclosure. 
         FIG. 27  shows a side elevational view of an electronic candle backlighting a fluorescent screen with highlighted menu according to a further embodiment of the disclosure. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Referring to the drawings and, in particular,  FIG. 1 , in one aspect of the present disclosure, an electronic candle or lamp control  50  provides controlled illuminecense. The luminescence produced by lamp  50  may be constant in intensity, brightness, and color, or may vary as to each attribute depending upon control signals received. Lamp  50 , (also referred to as an illumination source herein), may be energized by battery (DC) or AC power. The light can be incandescent, halogen, fluorescent, LED and/or any other light source known in the art. 
     Lamp  50  can be controlled by a variety of sources wirelessly. In one embodiment, a handheld transceiver  51 , (also referred to as a remote control herein), transmits control signals to, and receives data signals from, lamp  50 . Signals can be transferred via RF or infrared transmissions. 
     In another embodiment, a computer controlled transceiver  52  sends control signals and receives data signals from lamp  50  via RF transmission. A computer  57  controls transceiver  52  via USB connection, line carrier, infrared, RS-232, DMX-12 and/or RF transmission. Computer  57  includes a display  58 , a keyboard or touchscreen  59  to allow a user to input lamp control signals, and may include an external input/output source  60 . If placed in a “stand-alone” operation status, an external control  55  can be used to send control signals to lamp  50 . External output  55  may be connected to transceiver  52  with a USB connection. 
     Computer  57  sends control signals to lamp  50  and receives data from lamp  50  such as light intensity, color, etc. that can be used to adjust the lighting. The data received can also include two-way voice signals. Computer  57  may also be used to interface with a portal interface for sequencing configurations and user onscreen controls. 
     When used, for example, in a restaurant setting, computer  57  can also control lighting and be used as a point of sale application. Other applications include lighting control systems or other automated controllers. 
     In a further embodiment, an auxiliary transmitter  53  is used to repeat an RF signal from longer distances of operation than the handheld or computer controlled transceivers. Auxiliary transmitter  53  can also be used as a stand-alone transmitter with external control inputs. 
     In a yet further embodiment, a handheld transmitter  54  can be used to transmit control signals to lamp  50 . This embodiment is particularly useful for users that require immediate access to light control without the need for data retrieval and analysis. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 2 , lamp  50  may include an audio output speaker  71  to enable two-way voice communication. A microphone  72  may be internally mounted to pick up voice or other audible sounds for two-way voice communication. An input switch  73  (service call switch), may be incorporated into the body of lamp  50  to send messages via RF or other means to a central control station. An external access set DIP Switch  74  may be used to set the tri-state digital address of each individual lamp  50 . DIP switch  74  may also include a switch to place lamp  50  in a sleep mode power “off condition.” 
     DIP switch  74  may also include a switch to place lamp  50  in a “timer mode” that performs a 24-hour timer function that turns on lamp  50  the same time every day for a default hour-of-operation duration. The On/Off timer duration period can be adjusted in increments by toggling switch from Off to Timer then Off for each increment using a single dual throw (on/off timer) switch. 
     To provide a means to communicate with other components, lamp  50  may incorporate a dipole antenna  75  and/or an internal strip line. Antenna  75  is configured to receive and/or transmit RF signals. 
     To coordinate the luminosity of lamp  50  with ambient light, a light sensor  76  in the form of a photocell is incorporated to vary resistance with the amount of ambient light. Lamp  50  can be configured to activate in low ambient light conditions. 
     To monitor and adjust for air movement, piezo disc air movement sensors  77  are mounted externally on lamp  50  to provide air movement data along three axes. A tilt switch  78  detects tilt movement for control and alarm functions. 
     To receive and send infrared control and/or data signals, an infrared photo diode is incorporated into lamp  50  to receive control signals from handheld transmitter  54  as an alternate method of signal transmission. 
     A hall-effect sensor  80  is incorporated into lamp  50  to detect the presence of a magnetic lamp holder base to provide On/Off and color change functions. Lamp holder base  81  includes a magnet to activate hall-effect sensor  80 . Holder base  81  includes a top half  81   a  and a bottom half  81   b  as shown in  FIG. 5 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 3 , magnet and lamp tilt configurations are shown. Vertical placement and removal of lamp  50  from lamp holder base  81  causes activation and deactivation, respectively, of alarm trigger, lamp illumination, and color schemes depending on the programming used. A single pole magnet  86  may be used to provide basic functionality. A multi-pole or multi-segment magnet  88  may be used having north and south pole segments placed in a circular pattern so as to allow multiple control actions, such as illumination and color scheme, by rotating lamp  50  about the base. 
     Mechanical disturbance of lamp  50  in the form of titling is sensed by tilt switch  78 , which can activate certain functions including an alarm trigger if lamp  50  is displaced or titled. Tilt switch  78  may perform a single or multiple functions depending on the programming. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 4 , a circuit diagram for the remotely-controlled simulated electronic flame apparatus is shown. In one illustrative embodiment, a voltage regulator  30  converts approximately five 1.2 volt battery cells to the operating voltage of 5 volts dc. The battery cells  31  may be alkaline, nickel metal hydride, lithium ion, lithium ion polymer, nickel cadmium and the like. Battery cells  31  are mounted directly in lamp  50 . To prevent the backflow of current, a reverse blocking diode  32  is incorporated into the circuit after voltage regulator  30 . A DC Jack connector is provided to connect the charging base  81  to lamp  50 . 
     Three air movement piezo sensors  34  are mounted externally to lamp  50  and provide air movement direction and velocity in three axes. A photocell  35  varies resistance proportionately to the amount of ambient light. At a threshold low level of ambient light sensed by photocell  35 , lamp  50  turns on. 
     An external set DIP switch  36  sets the tri-state digital address of each individual lamp  50 . DIP switch  36  also includes a switch to activate a sleep mode power level, “off condition,” for lamp  50 . A radio frequency receiver  37  in communication with microcontroller  46  operates within the FCC part  15  guide lines. Receiver  37  converts carrier modulated information into digital data carrying the transmitter key code functions. Receiver  37  utilizes either an internal strip line or dipole antennas  38 . 
     A pulse width modulation driver  39  provides high current switching to supply lamps  50 . A plurality of red, green and blue LED lamps  40  connected to driver  39  are independently controlled by microcontroller  46 . Data signals are sent from microcontroller  46  to lamps  40  through driver  39 . An audio output speaker and driver  41  is mounted to the housing for lamp  50  to provide two-way verbal communication with a remote location. A hall-effect sensor  42  in communication with microprocessor  46  detects magnetic lamps holder base  81  and provides on/off and color change functions. 
     A microphone  43  is mounted internally in holder base  81  and sends voice and other sound information through microprocessor  46  for two-way communication with a remote location. A tilt switch  44  detects tilt movement for control and alarm functions. An auxiliary input switch  45  in communication with microprocessor  46  provides a means to send messages with RF to a central control station, such as computer  57 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 6 , in one aspect of the disclosure an integrated quad LED cluster  90  is shown that uses an internally mounted single or RGB LED lamp  50 . In one embodiment, three LED lamps are arranged in a cluster with each lamp bearing an angular offset from perpendicular. In another embodiment, a single LED is mounted substantially within the top center of holder base  81  to impart continuous backlight illumination that mimics a real flame. Each LED is controlled individually in a quasi-random manner to dim and brighten in multiple steps. 
     To mimic the effects imparted to real flames caused by environmental conditions such as moving air masses, a series of piezo sensors  34  distributed about the interior of holder base  81  receive and sense air pressure through apertures  91  arranged about a top surface of holder base  81  in substantial alignment with the internally-located sensors  34 . Based on readings received by the sensors, microprocessor  46  sends control signals to the individual LED lamps to control brightness. LED lamps located opposite the direction of an air sensor excitation event, is controlled to brighten so as to impart the effect of a breeze disturbing the simulated flame. The sensitivity to air movement is selectable via hardware or software commands as is well understood in the art. In the embodiment as shown, three equally spaced apertures  91  are provided about holder base  81 . The spacing and numbering of the apertures and associates sensors  34  can be adjusted as desired. A minimum of two aperture/sensor combinations should be used to provide variability to LED lamp brightness control. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 7 , a scene configuration screen according to another aspect of the disclosure is shown. This optional onscreen computer control and Internet-based portal system may be incorporated into the system as an optional control system to handheld transmitters. Alternatively, both the computer control and handheld transmitters may be used simultaneously. The screen can be used as a standalone system locally and/or as a web based interface from a remote location. 
     A delete function  200  enables a user to delete a scene previously created from a selectable scene list  201 . When a saved scene in list  201  is highlighted, all the parameters of the profile are shown in the screen display. Spectral wash  202  enables the user to select predetermined total length of time settings of a color wash effect before restarting a loop. Sequence selector  203  enables a user to select the amount of time before each lamp in a sequence group changes to the next color designation in a sequence. Brightness selector  204  enables a user to select the brightness level of all lamps by using the down and up controls as shown. It should be noted that real time brightness is configured to work in any mode. New scene selector  205  enables a user to activate a scene creation mode and label function. Scenes are stored profiles of different predetermined actions saved for later recall. A scene name display  206  displays the secondary name of a selected scene for ease of reference and recall. 
     Once a scene profile has been configured, a “save as” selector  207  can be implemented to save the scene profile and name to memory. A mode selector  208  enables a user to scroll through preconfigured profiles. A “play all scenes” selector  209  enables a user to recall and play all stored scene profiles in sequence and override any current mode. A hold selector  210  enables a user to stop or freeze a currently running scene profile until a new command is entered. A flicker mode selector  211  enables a user to commence the flickering effect to simulate natural candle flame performance. A default flicker setting overrides any current mode. An “all off” selector  212  enables a user to turn all operating lamps  50  off and override any current mode. 
     A learn selector  213  is provided to enable a user to activate the system&#39;s internal memory of a selected lamp  50  to store the lamp&#39;s address. This selector starts the learn mode process and automatically selects the starting address and auto-increments the lamp&#39;s number as learned. Optionally, a window is provided in which the current profile&#39;s number is displayed (as shown in  FIG. 7 ). The system auto-increments from the displayed number to the next number. To deactivate this function and exit learn mode, a done selector  214  is provided. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 8 , a system flow chart for remotely accessing and operating the electronic flame apparatus is shown. A user accesses the portal site via an HTTP protocol over TCP/IP networking from the Global Internet at step  95 . Access to a market site  96  having the main portal marketing pages is made possible through a login page  97 . A user enters a user ID and password for an existing account and the portal validates the user ID and password against encrypted records in the database at step  98 . 
     If the user has no previously established account, an account can be established by entering a user ID with an email address, or other form of identification to be associated with the account at step  99 . The portal then creates a randomized password and generates an SMTP-compliant email at step  100  that contains the password for the user, along with a unique URL, which are sent to the user at step  101 . The user uses the URL to return to the portal. The user then enters the user ID and password to confirm the email address, which is verified at the email verification page at step  102 . Next, the portal verifies the user ID and password combination against encrypted data within the database at step  103 . To complete the account creation, the user enters his/her name, mailing address, billing address, and payment details, etc., for storage in the database at step  104 . 
     Once an account is established, the user can create a lamp configuration profile, which is stored in the database at step  106 . The portal next determines whether a password recovery has been performed since the last time a manual password reset has occurred. If so, a manual reset if forced at step  116 . The user may enter a new password at step  117 . The user is now brought to the main screen page at step  118 , which is the main control interface screen page for lamp sequence configuration and function controls. The portal lists the stored profiles for the currently logged in user at step  119 . The user may edit a stored profile at step  120 . The user may also create a new stored profile at step  121 . The user may edit stored account information such as mailing address, billing address, payment details, etc., at step  122 . Dealers, customer service personnel, and any other authorized personnel may access customer details for other accounts at step  123 . 
     In the event a user cannot recall the user password for an account, the user may enter a user ID or email address to begin the password recovery process at step  124 . At step  125 , the user enters the answer to a question stored in the user&#39;s account as a user verification means. The portal creates a randomized password and generates an SMTP-compliant email containing the password to the user at step  126 . The portal next redirects the browser back to the portal login screen for further activity by the user at step  127 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 9 , a circuit diagram for a switch-controlled incandescent light assembly is shown. A standard wall and box mounted AC light control switch with on/off function  200  is connected to a standard wall and box mounted AC light control switch  201  with added resistive, or Pulse Width modulated dimmer function. Switch  201  is connected to a standard incandescent light bulb screw socket connector  202 . Screw socket  202  is connected to an AC to DC voltage converter  203  for supply and variable voltage outputs. A DC pulse detector circuit  204  outputs a signal when power is first applied or being removed. A DC level input signal  205  is received and sent to a microcontroller and Pulse Width Modulator circuit  206  to change RGB brightness levels in accordance with color output lookup tables stored in microcontroller  206 . RGB LED lamps  207  are controlled independently by microcontroller  206  and mounted to output diffused light similar to an incandescent bulb with the addition of multiple colors. All the circuitry is mounted into a standard incandescent type assembly  209  of any size, standard or nonstandard. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 10 , in one aspect of the disclosure, an electronic flame apparatus fitted to conventional candle-based lighting systems is shown. Electronic candle  309  has an IR receiver phototransistor  300  mounted in a flame top, or IR receivers mounted on the surface of the candle housing (both configurations shown). A low battery indicator light  302  illuminates to indicate less than ⅓ battery charge remaining. It should be understood that other battery charge levels may be used to trigger activation of indicator light  302 . Clear windows  303 , preferably two, are positioned on the top of the candle housing  309  at different locations to maximize and allow for omni-directional reception from an IR control transmitter. 
     A mechanical on/off switch  304  is mounted on the bottom of candle housing  309  to allow for individual control of the electronic candle without IR remote control transmitter control. A battery access door  305  is provided on the bottom of housing  309  to allow access to the battery compartment to dispose or install disposable and/or rechargeable batteries. An optional adaptor plate  306  fits on the bottom of candle housing  309  to enlarge the size for different sized square or other holder inset shape configurations. 
     A standardized lamp base  307  having a square cutout and used with square bottom liquid fuel candles  308  may be used to receive electronic candle housing  309 , which can be dimensioned to fit within the square cutout. A standardized cylindrical globe  310  may be positioned on lamp base  307  to obscure the light source with frosted or colored finishes to enhance the simulated flame effect. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 11 , an electronic candle profile setting routine is shown generally as  600 . The routine can be operated from a computer touch screen or via computer keys. To begin, the system user initiates power on at step  602 . The system is then initialized and set to default mode for features such as coloring, brightness and wash at step  604 . The screen then switches to a display LED for mode settings to enable the user to input selections at step  606 . If the user selects a D0 input at step  608 , a call flicker setting is initiated at step  610 , and the system returns for further selections at step  612 . If a D0 input is not selected, or the system returns for further selections, the user can select a D1 input at step  614 , which initiates a call all off setting at step  616 . The system then returns for further selections at step  618 . 
     If a D1 input is not selected, or the system returns for further selections, the user can select a D2 input at step  620 , which initiates a call low bright setting at step  622 . The system then returns for further selections at step  624 . If a D2 input is not selected, or the system returns for further selections, the user can select a D3 input at step  626 , which initiates a call high bright setting at step  628 . The system then returns for further selections at step  630 . 
     If a D3 input is not selected, or the system returns for further selections, the user can select a D4 input at step  632 , which initiates a call wash setting at step  634 . The system then returns for further selections at step  636 . If a D4 input is not selected, or the system returns for further selections, the user can select a D5 input at step  638 , which initiates a call color select setting at step  640 . The system then returns for further selections. If a D5 input is not selected, or the system returns for further selections, the user can select a D6 input at step  644 , which initiates a call memory  1  setting at step  646 . The call memory  1  setting can coordinate one or more pre-selected settings for one or more features of the system. Following initiation of call memory  1 , the system returns for further selections at step  648 . 
     If a D6 input is not selected, or the system returns for further selections, the user can select a D7 input at step  650 , which initiates a call memory  2  setting at step  652 . The call memory  2  setting coordinates one or more pre-selected settings for one or more features of the system. Call memory  2  settings can include one or more settings similar to those set in call memory  1 . It should be understood that the system can incorporate a plurality of call memory settings beyond the two shown for illustrative purposes. Following initiation of call memory  2 , the system returns for further selections at step  654 . If a D7 input is not selected, or the system returns for further selections, the user can select an alarm input at step  656 , which initiates a call alarm at step  658 . The system then returns for further selections at step  660 . Once all input options have been selected the system returns to the LED display shown at step  606 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 12 , an electronic candle color setting routine is shown generally as  662 . A display LED for color mode settings is initiated at step  664  on a computer touch screen or via computer keyboard. The system then loads red/green/blue (R/G/B) values from a predefined color table at step  666 . The user can select brightness level from a group of predefined levels, e.g., 1, ¾, ½ or ¼ at the same step. It should be understood that the brightness level definitions can be programmed to suit any particular needs and that the example given is by way of illustration and not limitation. 
     Once the color values have been loaded, the system starts an 8-bit timer for a 488 Hz refresh signal at step  668 . The system then determines if the timer value is greater than the red LED value at step  670 . If yes, the red LED is turned off at step  672  and the system returns to evaluate the green setting. If the timer value is less than the red LED value, the red LED is turned on at step  674 . The system then proceeds to evaluate the green LED value at step  676 . If the timer value is greater than the green LED value, the green LED is turned off at step  678  and the system returns to evaluate the blue setting. If the timer value is less than the green LED value, the green LED is turned on at step  680 . The system then proceeds to evaluate the blue setting at step  682 . If the timer value is greater than the blue LED setting, the blue LED is turned off at step  684  and the system returns to determine if there is timer overflow at step  688 . If the timer value is less than the blue LED value, the blue LED is turned on at step  686 . The system then determines if there is timer overflow at step  688 . If yes, the system continues at step  690 . If no, the system returns to step  688 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 13 , an electronic candle brightness and flicker setting subroutine, shown generally as  692 , enables a user to select brightness and flicker settings for the electronic flame apparatus. A subroutine flicker setting is initiated at step  694 . A start 16-bit timer for continuous free running can next be initiated by the user at step  696 . The user is then prompted to read and add high low bytes to compile an 8-bit random number at step  698 . The subroutine then assigns random number bits— 1 , 0 —as brightness settings to control four brightness levels for the flicker function at step  700 . It should be understood that the number of brightness levels can be increased or decreased as desired. 
     The subroutine next assigns random number bits— 3 , 2 , 1 , 0 , 7 —to function as flicker duration counters at step  702 . Again, the duration can be adjusted upwardly or downwardly as desired. The subroutine next determines if the brightness level is equal to the lowest programmed setting at step  704 . If yes, the subroutine continues to step  708 , described below. If no, the display LED mode settings is initiated at step  706 . The subroutine then checks for D)-D7 inputs and for an alarm input at step  710 . If the subroutine detects the presence of D1, D4, D5, D6, D7, or an alarm input at step  712 , the subroutine returns to the main program at step  714 . If the inputs are not detected, the subroutine returns to step  698 . 
     At step  708 , the subroutine determines whether the duration is greater than 12 counts. If no, the subroutine returns to the loop beginning at step  706 . If yes, the subroutine sets the duration counter to 12 (98.3 ms) at step  716 . The subroutine then returns to the loop at step  706 . It should be understood that the duration counter can be adjusted to increase or decrease the duration as desired. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 14 , a shut down routine is shown generally as  718 . The routine begins with all subroutines being turned off at step  720 . The watchdog timer is set to a 544 millisecond interrupt segment at step  722 . It should be understood that the interrupt segment can be adjusted increased or decreased as desired. Interrupt mode is enabled at step  724 . The RF receiver module is turned off at step  726 . And an execute “sleep” instruction is initiated at step  728 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 15 , a low brightness subroutine is shown generally as  730 . The low brightness subroutine is initiated at step  732 . The brightness variable is set to low at step  734 . The subroutine returns to the main program at step  736 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 16 , a high brightness subroutine is shown generally as  738 . The high brightness subroutine is initiated at step  740 . The brightness variable is set to high at step  742 . The subroutine returns to the main program at step  744 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 17 , a wash subroutine is shown generally as  746 . The wash subroutine is initiated at step  748 . The subroutine determines whether the settings were in wash mode just prior to the D4 input. If yes, the subroutine returns to the main program at step  752 . If no, the timer is set for 3 minutes per color at a wash speed in 128 steps at step  754 . It should be understood that the timer setting and wash speed can be increased or decreased individually as desired. The subroutine next enables the timer interrupt feature at step  758 . The subroutine next returns to the main program at step  760 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 18 , a color select subroutine is shown generally as  762 . The color select subroutine is initiated at step  764 . The timer is disabled to stop the wash function at step  766 . Next, the subroutine determines if the settings were in wash mode just prior to the D5 input. If yes, the subroutine returns to the main program at step  770  with a temporary freeze in between color. If no, a current color counter is incrementally increased by 1 at step  772 . It should be understood that the increase unit can be greater than 1. Following this step, the subroutine determines if the color counter is greater than 10. If yes, the color counter is set to 1 (amber) at step  776 . After setting the color counter, the subroutine returns to the main program at step  778 . If no, the subroutine returns to the main program at step  778 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 19 , a subroutine for memory  1  is shown generally as  780 . Subroutine memory  1  is initiated at step  782 . The subroutine determines if the D6 key has been pressed more than 3 seconds. If yes, the all modes parameters and variables are saved into the EEPROM memory  1  location at step  786 . The user is informed about the memory save when the LED blinks two times at step  790 . The subroutine then returns to the main program at step  792 . If the subroutine does not detect the D6 key as being depressed more than 3 seconds, all modes parameters and variables from EEPROM are restored from the memory  1  location at step  788 . The subroutine returns to the main program at step  792 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 20 , a subroutine for memory  2  is shown generally as  794 . Subroutine memory  2  is initiated at step  796 . The subroutine determines if the D7 key has been pressed more than 3 seconds at step  798 . If yes, the all modes parameters and variables are saved into the EEPROM memory  2  location at step  800 . The user is informed about the memory save when the LED blinks two times at step  804 . The subroutine then returns to the main program at step  806 . If the subroutine does not detect the D7 key as being depressed more than 3 seconds, all modes parameters and variables from EEPROM are restored from the memory  2  location at step  802 . The subroutine returns to the main program at step  806 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 20   a , an automatic on/off timer subroutine is shown generally as  795 . The on/off timer subroutine is initiated at step  797 . The subroutine determines if the D7 key has been pressed more than 3 seconds at step  799 . If yes, the all modes parameters and variables are saved into the EEPROM on/off timer location at step  801 . The user is informed about the on/off timer save when the LED blinks two times at step  805 . The subroutine then returns to the main program at step  807 . If the subroutine does not detect the D7 key as being depressed more than 3 seconds, all modes parameters and variables from EEPROM are restored from the on/off timer location at step  803 . The subroutine returns to the main program at step  807 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 21 , an interrupt service subroutine is shown generally as  808 . The interrupt service routine is initiated at step  810 . The routine determines if the wash timer is interrupted (timer interrupt flag=1) at step  812 . If yes, the routine goes to the timer interrupt at step  814 . If no, the routine determines if the watchdog timer is interrupted (watchdog interrupt flag=1) at step  816 . If yes, the routine goes to watchdog interrupt at step  818 . If no, the routine returns from the interrupt at step  820 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 22 , a timer interrupt routine is shown generally as  822 . The timer interrupt routine is initiated at step  824 . The routine calculates the difference between the current and next color R/G/B LED values at step  826 . The routine next determines if the time has lapsed 1.4 seconds (3 minutes divided by 128 steps) at step  828 . If yes, the routine increases or decreases the R/G/B value one step to the next color at step  830 . The routine then returns from the interrupt at step  832 . If no, the routine returns from interrupt at step  834 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 23 , a watchdog interrupt subroutine is shown generally as  836 . The watchdog interrupt subroutine is initiated at step  838 . The subroutine activates the microprocessor and turns on the RF receiver for 262.144 ms in step  840 . The subroutine next determines if valid RF keys have been received (VT signal on RF receiver=1) in step  842 . If yes, the subroutine determines if D0, D4, D5, D6, or D7 inputs are present in step  844 . If any of the inputs are present, the subroutine activates a wakeup function and go to power on at step  846 . If a valid RF key has not been received at step  842 , the subroutine sets the watchdog timer to 544 ms interrupt at step  848 . The subroutine next enables the interrupt function at step  850 . The RF receiver module is next turned off at step  852 . Next, the subroutine executes a “sleep” instruction at step  854 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 24 , an alarm subroutine is shown generally as  856 . The alarm subroutine is initiated at step  858 . The subroutine determines if the system is armed (arm flag=1) in step  860 . If the system is found not to be armed, the subroutine determines if a magnet is present at step  862 . If the magnet is present, the subroutine arms the system (arm flag=1) at step  864 . The subroutine returns to the main program at step  868 . If the magnet is not present, the subroutine disarms the system (arm flag=0) at step  866 . The subroutine next returns to the main program at step  868 . 
     If the system is found to be armed at step  860 , the subroutine determines if the magnet is present at step  870 . If yes, the subroutine returns to the main program at step  868 . If no, the subroutine triggers a silent alarm (red LED blinks) at step  872 . The subroutine next determines if the magnet present at step  874 . If yes, the subroutine stops the red LED from blinking at step  878 , and returns to the main program at step  880 . If the magnet is not found present at step  874 , the subroutine determines if 10 minutes has lapsed at step  876 . If yes, the subroutine stops the red LED from blinking at step  878 , and returns to the main program at step  880 . If 10 minutes are not determined to have passed at step  876 , the subroutine determines if the D3 key has been received at step  882 . If yes, the subroutine stops the red LED from blinking at step  878 , and returns to the main program at step  880 . If the D3 key has not been received at step  882 , the subroutine returns to step  872 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 25 , a graph is shown depicting a flicker brightness algorithm. The algorithm is constructed so that flicker brightness never reaches 0% brightness. An artificial minimum of 25% brightness is set to rise incrementally or linearly in one direction to 100% brightness. Once 100% brightness is achieved, flicker brightness drops incrementally or linearly in one direction to a minimum established value such as 25%. The up and down brightness cycle is cyclically repeated whereby each time fragment (T 1 , T 2 , etc.), or time duration is a random number generated in steps of 8.192 milliseconds. The time fragments may be generated in any variable or structured steps as desired, all within the scope and spirit of the disclosure and appended claims. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 26 , a combination lamp/data transport router system is shown generally as  400 . A network  404  communicates via network communication protocol  403  with main data router  402 . Communication protocol  403  may be any protocol including, but not limited to, Mesh, Hopping, WiFi, or any other LAN type network communication protocol. In this embodiment, lamp  50  includes an integrated data transport router that functions as a local wireless data network interface. With an integrated router, lamp  50  provides a portable and moveable low power with high signal strength connection to mobile devices  405 . Communication among main data router  402 , mobile device  405 , and lamps  50 , which include integrated antennae  75  is via RF transmission. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 27 , in a further embodiment, lamp  50  includes an LED, or fluorescent Black light output  502  to function as backlighting for a screen or board  500  comprised of a light absorbing and light emitting fluorescent plastic material. Screen  500  is used to display and highlight menu  501  or other viewable lighted objects. This lighting configuration promotes enhanced viewing and attraction of the highlighted object under low light conditions. 
     While the present disclosure has been described in connection with several embodiments thereof, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many changes and modifications may be made without departing from the true spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it is intended by the appended claims to cover all such changes and modifications as come within the true spirit and scope of the disclosure.