Patent Publication Number: US-2016238237-A1

Title: Illumination Device, Including System and Method of Use

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is a continuation-in-part of U. S. patent application to Preston Palmer et al. entitled “CENTRAL BATTERY INTERCONNCECTED SMOKE DETECTOR SYSTEM WITH SINGLE WIRE AC AND DC PASS-THROUGH RELAY,” Ser. No. 14/557,362, filed Dec. 1, 2014, which is in turn a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application to Preston Palmer et al. entitled “CENTRAL BATTERY INTERCONNCECTED SMOKE DETECTOR SYSTEM WITH SINGLE WIRE AC AND DC PASS-THROUGH RELAY,” Ser. No. 13/407,443, filed Feb. 28, 2012, which claims priority to the U.S. Provisional Patent Application to Preston Palmer et al. entitled “CENTRAL BATTERY INTERCONNCECTED SMOKE DETECTOR SYSTEM WITH SINGLE WIRE AC AND DC PASS-THROUGH RELAY,” Ser. No. 61/464,115, filed Feb. 28, 2011 the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated entirely herein by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Technical Field 
     This invention relates to devices that provide illumination. In particular, disclosed embodiments of the invention relate to a reflective backup illumination device, including a system comprising a plurality of devices and a method of use for providing backup illumination of a space with reflected light. 
     2. State of the Art 
     Multiple devices and systems exist for providing emergency lighting in the event of loss of electrical power provided by a public utility company or other power source external to a building. In some cases, a light source to provide lighting for safe egress of persons present in a building space during an emergency, such as a house or building fire, is present in a detection and alert device. A conventional smoke detector is one representative example of a detection and alert device. To be maximally effective in minimizing injuries and death, however, a system of alert devices, such as smoke detectors, must 1) be functional; and 2) provide a source of light to illuminate a space for safe egress in the event of a power failure. 
     Regarding the importance of maintaining a reliable system of smoke detectors, functional smoke detectors in a home or commercial building save lives. In the U.S., many states require smoke alarms/detectors in both residential and commercial buildings, particularly in new construction. Current smoke detector alarm systems vary in the manner through which the individual detectors are interconnected and powered. Most commonly, smoke detectors are wired into an isolated alternating current (“AC”) power circuit (“dedicated circuit”) in a residential or commercial building to provide a reliable, continuous source of power. In the event of a power failure wherein the dedicated circuit is no longer energized with an external current from a remote AC power source, a conventional DC battery within each detector provides backup power to the device. This generally works fine, unless these backup-power batteries fail or are disconnected. According to the National Fire Protection Association (“NFPA”), almost two-thirds of home fire deaths from 2000-2009 resulted from fires in homes without smoke detector alarms or in homes where smoke detector alarms were non-functioning. The NFPA reports that eighty percent of smoke alarm failures during this period arose from a missing or disconnected battery, dead or discharged battery, or when line AC power fails, is/shut-off, or otherwise is disconnected. When the voltage of a backup direct current (“DC”) battery in an individual smoke detector weakens, a typical detector emits an audible alarm consisting of regular, loud beeps or chirps, alerting the building&#39;s occupant to replace the old, discharged battery with a fresh one. 
     Additional problems exist with these conventional devices beyond failure of backup power. For example, available emergency lighting devices provide for direct lighting of a space with a backup emergency light source. The light from the light source may effectively illuminate the portion of the space surrounding the spot upon which the light shines directly, while failing to effectively illuminate a larger area. Additionally, direct light often creates glare, particularly if the direct light is a white light. The effect is frequently to glaringly illuminate a small portion of the space while effectively “blinding” a building occupant to surrounding, dimly lit areas of the space. 
     Accordingly, what is needed is a system of backup illumination devices that simultaneously: 1) provides a backup power source to interconnected illumination devices in a residence or commercial building; 2) monitors the functionality of each individual backup and illumination device; and 3) provides a reliable source of emergency backup lighting which effectively illuminates a large space without glare. 
     DISCLOSURE OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION 
     This invention relates to illumination devices. In particular, embodiments of the invention relate to a system comprising illumination devices and a method of creating the same for providing glare-free illumination of a space to allow for egress or other activities in a variety of situations, including emergency and other potentially dangerous situations. The system additionally provides direct current (“DC”) backup power through a dedicated circuit to an interconnected system of illumination devices installed in a residential or commercial building. 
     The illumination devices and system include alert and illumination devices, detection and illumination devices, and detection and alert illumination devices, in some embodiments. 
     Disclosed is an illumination device comprising a device comprising a light source; a first circuit powered by an alternating current; a second circuit powered by a direct current electrically coupled to the light source, a back plate coupled to the device; and a gap interposed between the device and the back plate, wherein a light from the light source is directed across the gap onto a mounting surface coupled to the back plate, causing illumination of a space in response to directing the light onto the mounting surface. 
     In some embodiments, the mounting surface is reflective. In some embodiments, the illumination device further comprises a dedicated circuit electrically coupled to the first circuit and to the second circuit. In some embodiments, the reflected light comprises a green light. In some embodiments, the reflected light is a green light comprising a wavelength of between about 470 nanometers and about 580 nanometers. In some embodiments, the gap is between about one millimeter and about 15 centimeters. In some embodiments, the light source comprises an annular light source. In some embodiments, the device comprises a detection and alert device. 
     Disclosed is a method of use for an illumination device comprising the steps of activating an illumination device comprising a light source; directing a light from the illumination device onto a mounting surface across a gap between the illumination device and the mounting surface; and illuminating a space in response to the light reflecting off the mounting surface. 
     In some embodiments, the mounting surface comprises a reflective coating. In some embodiments, the illumination device is coupled to a building structure comprising a dedicated circuit, wherein the illumination device is electrically coupled to the dedicated circuit. In some embodiments, the method further comprises a step synchronizing a pattern of pulsed vibrations and pulsed illuminations, wherein the illumination device comprises a pulsed vibrational source and wherein the light source is a pulsed light source, which communicates a condition to a person perceiving the synchronized pattern of pulsed vibrations caused by the pulsed vibrational source and the pattern or pulsed illuminations caused by the pulsed light source. 
     Disclosed is an illumination device system comprising an illumination device comprising a light source; an alert device; and a mounting surface, wherein the illumination device directs a light from the light source onto the mounting surface forming a reflected light, causing illumination of a space with the reflected light. 
     In some embodiments, the alert device comprises a visual alert. In some embodiments, the visual alert is a pulsed visual alert. In some embodiments, the alert device comprises a vibrational alert. In some embodiments, the vibrational alert is a pulsed vibrational alert. In some embodiments, the illumination device system further comprises a pulsed visual alert and a pulsed vibrational alert, wherein the pulsed visual alert is synchronous with the pulsed vibrational alert. 
     In some embodiments, the alert device comprises an auditory alert. In some embodiments, the illumination device comprises a detection and alert device. 
     Disclosed is an illumination system comprising a dedicated circuit electrically coupled to an alternating current and a direct current, wherein under a condition with the alternating current present, the dedicated circuit is energized with the alternating current; a first relay electrically coupled to each of the dedicated circuit, the alternating current, and the direct current, wherein under a condition with the alternating current absent, the first relay causes the direct current to energize the dedicated circuit; an illumination device electrically coupled to the dedicated circuit, comprising a light source; a first circuit powered by the alternating current; a second circuit electrically coupled to each of the first circuit and the light source, wherein the second circuit energizes the light source; a back plate coupled to the illumination device; and a gap interposed between the illumination device and the back plate, wherein the gap separates the illumination device from a mounting surface, and wherein a light from the light source is directed across the gap onto the mounting surface and reflected by the mounting surface, causing illumination of a space with a reflected light. 
     In some embodiments, a battery coupled to the dedicated circuit energizes the dedicated circuit with the direct current. In some embodiments, the illumination system further comprises a detection and alert device electrically coupled to the dedicated circuit; a plurality of illumination devices electrically coupled to the dedicated circuit, and a low voltage controller coupled to the dedicated circuit, wherein the low voltage controller responds to activation of the detection and alert device by activating the plurality of backup illumination devices. 
     The foregoing and other features and advantages of the invention will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art from the following more particular description of the invention and the accompanying drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a schematic view of an illumination device system  100 ; 
         FIG. 2  is a schematic view of an additional embodiment of an illumination device system  100 ; 
         FIG. 3  is a schematic view of an another additional embodiment of an illumination device system  100 ; 
         FIG. 4  is a schematic view of a low voltage controller  350  of an illumination device system  100 ; 
         FIG. 5  is a schematic representation of two illumination devices  160  electrically coupled to dedicated circuit  102 ; 
         FIG. 6  is a schematic representation of an illumination device  160 ; 
         FIG. 7  is an additional schematic representation of an illumination device  160 ; 
         FIG. 8 a    is a side view of an illumination device  160  coupled to a mounting surface; 
         FIG. 8 b    is an exploded side view of an illumination device  160  coupled to a mounting surface; 
         FIG. 9  is a schematic representation of a method of use for an illumination device; and 
         FIG. 10  is a schematic representation of an additional embodiment of the method of use for an illumination device. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION 
     As discussed above, the disclosed invention relates to an illumination device system with a remotely located DC battery power backup to provide illumination, such as backup emergency lighting during a power failure or emergency, for persons present in a building space during a failure of AC power and during potentially dangerous situations. In the event of an AC power failure, an illumination device system transmits power from a reliable, continuous DC backup source to one or a plurality of illumination devices electrically coupled to a dedicated circuit, eliminating the need for a DC battery within each individual illumination device. 
     Existing illumination device systems for commercial buildings, such as hospitals, for example, use community-distributed AC power with an AC backup, such as a diesel generator. Smaller commercial buildings and single-family homes often have installed devices to provide emergency lighting. In some homes, a detection and alert device, such as a smoke detector, for example, provides a source of emergency lighting in the form of a light source powered by a separate nine-volt battery housed within each individual detection and alert device. 
     This ubiquitous system utilizing a different battery in each individual alert device is inadequate. When an individual device&#39;s battery is charged and functioning, the backup system works well. Problems arise, however, when a battery ages, loses its charge, and eventually fails. When the battery voltage drops below a given level, a conventional alert device will emit a periodic audible alarm, such as a loud “chirp.” If the building housing the detector is occupied, this alarm is usually effective at getting the occupants&#39; attention. When the occupant or owner is severely hearing impaired, an audible alarm is not heard. Either way, a responsible occupant or building owner will respond by simply replacing the old, discharged battery with a new, fresh battery. 
     All too often, however, this does not happen for two general reasons. The first reason is because changing the battery in even one standard alert and illumination device is inconvenient. Devices are usually mounted on a ceiling and require at least a step-stool, if not a tall ladder, for access. Even a small residence will have three or four alert and illumination devices; a large house may have up to a dozen or more. Therefore, a typical building will house multiple illumination devices in difficult-to-access locations, each with a different battery which will fail and require replacement in its own time, different from all the other batteries. Some occupants change each battery as it fails. Others change all the individual device batteries when one device battery fails, resulting in discarding some batteries prematurely creating an unnecessary waste and expense. To avoid future inconvenience, however, many occupants respond to an illumination and alert device&#39;s battery-failure alarm by disabling or removing all of the similar individual alert devices throughout the building. 
     The second reason is because the building is unoccupied for an extended period of time. Many homes and buildings stand vacant for months or years awaiting sale, or while awaiting renovation or restoration. Buildings unoccupied for a lengthy period often have no AC electrical service. A great many of these buildings are not regularly visited or attended. If functioning alert and illumination devices are present in these buildings, the batteries all fail after an extended period and the building is left without a functioning detection and alert illumination device system. 
     Also, an illumination device typically shines a white or other broad-spectrum light from a light source directly onto a floor or wall surfaced of a building. This often has the effect of brightly illuminating the surface directly with a white light, causing a glare which tends to blind a person to the surrounding, indirectly illuminated portions of the space. 
     As used herein, “space,” and “building space” mean any area in proximity to an illumination device which may be illuminated by the device. This includes indoor spaces and outdoor spaces without limitation. 
     Embodiments of the disclosed invention solve these and other problems by providing an illumination device which provides illumination of a space with indirect, reflected light, whether indoors or outdoors, to allow for safe egress of a person occupying the space in the event of a failure of AC line power or during an emergency situation. The light is reflected off of a surface, such as a wall or ceiling, upon which the illumination device is mounted. The reflected light broadly illuminates a surrounding space with indirect light, wherein glare is minimized and causing a person occupying the space to see a much larger area, compared with direct lighting. Additionally, the distinct character of the indirect light, which may be of a specific color, alerts any person occupying the space to the presence of a possibly dangerous situation, such as a building fire, severe weather, gas leak, and others. Embodiments of the disclosed invention also eliminate the need to monitor and regularly change batteries housed in detection and alert devices located in hard-to-reach locations. The disclosed invention provides a continuous reliable source of backup DC power for detection and alert illumination devices wired into a dedicated circuit. 
     Disclosed is a battery interconnected illumination device system and method of use. What immediately follows is a general overview of the system. Afterward, additional details are provided in a detailed description of each of the various drawing figures. 
     In some embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 1 , the system generally comprises an AC power source  104 , a first DC source  203 , a first relay  210 , a dedicated circuit  102 , and an illumination device  160 . Illumination device  160  is powered by a dedicated circuit current  123  conducted by dedicated circuit  102 . Dedicated circuit  102 , in some embodiments, is a wiring circuit present within a building structure, whether a commercial or a residential building or other structure, which is electrically isolated from other electrical currents in the building structure. Many building structures already comprise a dedicated circuit coupled to a plurality of smoke detectors, as one example of a detection and alert device. Currently, however, a dedicated circuit in an existing building is only coupled to and conducts current from an AC source. Such dedicated circuits are not coupled to and, therefore, do not conduct current from a DC source. Illumination device  160 , being electrically coupled to dedicated circuit  102  which may conduct either an AC dedicated circuit current  123  or a DC dedicated circuit current  123  to illumination device  160 , therefore, determines whether dedicated circuit current  123  is AC or DC. 
     First relay  210  is electrically coupled to an AC power source  104 , a first DC source  203 , and dedicated circuit  102  coupled to one or a plurality of illumination devices  160 . AC power source  104 , in some embodiments, derives from a conventional power generation and distribution system. For purposes of this disclosure, the term “line voltage” is used synonymously with AC power source  104 . First DC source  203 , in some embodiments, is a rechargeable battery  310  (shown in  FIG. 2 ,  FIG. 3 , and  FIG. 4 .) In various embodiments, first relay  210  selectively delivers AC electricity from AC power source  104  to detection and alert device(s)  160  through dedicated circuit  102  so long as AC power source  104  is present. When AC power source  104  is absent, such as during a power failure or disconnected service, first relay  210  selectively delivers first DC source  203  to detection and alert devices  160  through dedicated circuit  102 . First relay  210 , by default, energizes dedicated circuit  102  with AC power, switching to DC battery power when AC power fails or is otherwise absent. When AC power source  104  is absent, first relay  210  delivers DC power from first DC source  203  to detection and alert devices  160  through the same physical wiring—dedicated circuit  102 —as is energized with AC from alternating current power source  104  when line voltage is present. In this manner, some embodiments of the invention allow for a single-battery source of back-up DC power to one or a plurality of illumination devices  160 , eliminating the need to house a battery within each individual illumination device  160 . 
     A central battery AC/DC controller panel  130 , in some embodiments, is located in a convenient location in or immediately outside the building. It is convenient to install controller panel  130  adjacent or near the building&#39;s traditional service-entrance electrical panel. Controller panel  130 , in some embodiments, houses first DC source  203  and first relay  210 . Controller panel  130 , in some embodiments, receives AC power source  104  via the building&#39;s service entrance panel, typically a circuit breaker box. Controller panel  130 , in some embodiments, outputs AC power or direct current, as determined by first relay  210 , back to the service entrance panel to energize dedicated circuit  102 . Because a first DC source  203 , such as a rechargeable DC battery in some embodiments, is housed in a convenient location such as near the service entrance panel within controller panel  130 , access to first DC source  203  for service or replacement is safe and uncomplicated. In some embodiments, controller panel  130  is mounted at standing-eye-level, so that a stool, ladder, or the like is not required to access first DC source  203 . Therefore, in some embodiments wherein first DC source  203  comprises a rechargeable DC battery, the need for multiple periodic battery changes is eliminated. Some embodiments additionally comprise one or more additional DC sources, such as a photovoltaic cell and/or AC power source  104  current modified by an AC/DC transformer, for example. 
       FIG. 1  shows an example embodiment of a battery interconnected illumination system  100 . System  100  comprises controller panel  130  with an AC/high voltage side  200  and a D/C low voltage side  300 , dedicated circuit  102 , and illumination device  160 . In  FIG. 1 , and other drawing figures, solid lines connecting components represent electrical connections conducting AC power and dashed lines connecting components represent electrical connections conducting DC power. Arrows on the ends and/or mid-segments of solid and dashed electrical connection lines represent the direction of current flow. AC/high voltage side  200  comprises first relay  210 . In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1 , alternating current from AC power source  104  enters an AC/high voltage side  200  of system  100  and is electrically coupled to first relay  210 . As mentioned above, first relay  210  is also electrically coupled to first DC source  203  and dedicated circuit  102 . First DC source  203 , in some embodiments, is housed inside DC/low voltage side  300  of system  100  and is discussed in detail below. 
     In some embodiments, AC/high voltage wiring is physically separated from DC/low voltage wiring within controller panel  130  for safety reasons. In the United States, line AC voltage is 220 volts, stepped-down to 110 volts at the service entrance panel. Contact with high voltage AC power from a typical 110 volt AC power source  104  may, under certain conditions, result in electrocution. Further, the need to access any of system  100 &#39;s components located in AC/high voltage side  200  should be very infrequent. Conversely, contact with relatively low voltage, such as DC power from a typical 12 volt first DC source  203 , in some embodiments, should almost never result in serious injury. Additionally, in some embodiments, first DC source  203  will periodically need replacement, such as when a non-rechargeable DC battery or a rechargeable DC battery comprises first DC source  203 . Therefore, controller panel  130 , in some embodiments, is constructed so as to physically isolate the relatively safe currents present in DC/low voltage side  300  from the more hazardous currents present in AC/high voltage side  200 . 
     In the embodiments of system  100  shown in  FIG. 1 , and some other embodiments, wiring carrying DC current from first DC source  203  passes from DC/low voltage side  300  to AC/high voltage side  200  through a low voltage junction  305 . Low voltage junction  305 , in some embodiments, is any one of a variety of pass-through conduits commercially available and known to those in the art electrically insulated from contact by a physical partition between AC/high voltage side  200  and DC/low voltage side  300  of controller panel  130 . Similarly, AC power from AC power source  104  enters AC/high voltage side  200  through a high voltage junction  205 . High voltage junction  205 , in some embodiments, is any one of a variety of pass-through conduits commercially available and know to those in the art electrically insulated form contact with the physical outer wall of controller panel  130   
     First relay  210  of system  100 , in the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1  and some other embodiments, selectively delivers alternating current from AC power source  104  to dedicated circuit  102  so long as AC power is available. In some embodiments, first relay  210  is rated for a 110 V AC input and a 12 V DC input. In some embodiment, first relay  210  is a mechanical relay. In some embodiments, first relay  210  is a solid-state relay. In some embodiments, first relay  210  is selected from a variety of commercially available devices known in the art. Factors affecting the choice of component for first relay  210  include the AC voltage and amperage of the line current entering first relay  210  from AC power source  104 . In a default condition where line voltage is present from AC power source  104 , first relay  210  conducts AC power to dedicated circuit  102 . 
     Dedicated circuit  102  is an electrical circuit electrically coupled to a single illumination device  160  or an interconnected plurality of illumination devices  160 . A dedicated circuit interconnecting smoke detectors comprising a light source, as a non-limiting example of a detection and alert illumination device, has widely been adopted in residential building codes throughout the U.S. since written into the National Fire Alarm Code in 1989. Therefore, dedicated circuit  102  is generally present in all newer residential buildings and widely known to those with skill in the art. 
     Illumination device  160  with vibrational alert is compatible with a conventional dedicated circuit, such as dedicated circuit  102  shown in  FIG. 1 , in some embodiments. An existing dedicated circuit installed in a building structure conducts either AC or DC, such as from AC power source  104 , first DC source  203 , or a second direct current  302  (See  FIG. 2 ) to illumination device  160 . DC from either first DC source  203  or second DC  302  is also sufficient to power a vibration source  153  (See  FIG. 7 ). Electrically coupling illumination devices  160  to dedicated circuit  102  interconnects the devices and enables simultaneous activation of all illumination devices  160  electrically coupled to dedicated circuit  102  when a single illumination device  160  is activated, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, an alarm switch  403  is electrically coupled to dedicated circuit  102  (See  FIG. 3 ). 
     When AC power source  104  is absent, first relay  210  delivers DC power from first DC source  203  to illumination devices  160  through the same physical wiring—dedicated circuit  102 —as is energized with AC from AC power source  104  when line voltage is present. Although dedicated circuit  102  is energized with AC power when AC power is available, dedicated circuit  102  is able to conduct sufficient DC to energize a plurality of illumination devices  160  along the limited lengths of wire present in a residential or small commercial building without a substantial voltage drop across the internal electrical resistance in the wires of dedicated circuit  102 . Further, because dedicated circuit  102  is only coupled to illumination devices  160  and, in some embodiments, alarm switch  406  but no other electrical loads, electrical resistance is minimized and available voltage is conserved. Therefore, when line AC is not available, first relay  210  completes a circuit to first DC source  203 , wherein dedicated circuit  102  is powered by first DC source  203 . First DC source  203  provides adequate DC power to energize a plurality of illumination devices  160  electrically coupled to dedicated circuit  102  without a drop in voltage below the operational threshold voltage of illumination devices  160 . 
       FIG. 1  also shows dedicated circuit  102  carrying a dedicated circuit current  123  to illumination device  160 . As discussed, when an AC power source  104  is present, dedicated circuit current  123  is AC. When AC power source  104  is absent, dedicated circuit current  123  is DC.  FIG. 1  shows dedicated circuit current  123  as two electrical connections, one DC and one AC. This is merely a schematic representation; the same physical wiring conducts either AC power or DC power, depending upon whether AC power source  104  is present. First relay  210  selectively chooses whether to energize dedicated circuit  102  with DC power depending upon the availability of AC power from AC power source  104  as discussed. 
       FIG. 2  shows an example embodiment of battery interconnected illumination device system  100 . In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 2 , and in some other embodiments, a battery  310  is first DC source  203 . Battery  310 , in some embodiments, is a non-rechargeable DC battery, such as a 12 volt dry cell “lantern” battery. In some embodiments, battery  310  is two 6 volt dry cell batteries electrically connected in series to deliver 12 volts. In still other embodiments, battery  310  is some other non-rechargeable battery or a combination of batteries such that the total available voltage and current provided by battery/batteries  310  result in a first DC source of sufficient voltage and available current to power the building&#39;s system of illumination devices  160  interconnected on dedicated circuit  102 . Some advantages of using a non-rechargeable battery  310  as first DC source  203  are low cost and a more simple design. One disadvantage is the limited useful life of a non-rechargeable battery before it needs to be replaced. Another disadvantage is failure of a non-rechargeable battery  310  as available backup DC power (i.e., first DC source  203 ) to battery interconnected alert device system with vibrational alert  100  in a building which has been abandoned or otherwise unattended for a long period of time. 
     In some embodiments, battery  310  is a rechargeable battery. The use of a rechargeable battery  310  versus a non-rechargeable battery  310  is advantageous in some embodiments of system  100  which provide an automatic recharging means, such as the non-limiting example embodiment of system  100  shown in  FIG. 2  and discussed further herein below. A rechargeable battery has a longer useful life than a non-rechargeable battery. In some embodiments of system  100  wherein battery  310  comprises a rechargeable battery, additional components comprising an automatic recharging means provide for a first DC source  203 , such as a rechargeable battery  310  for example, to provide potentially years of continuous DC power to illumination devices  160  in a completely unattended building wherein AC power source  104  is continuously unavailable, or unavailable for extended periods. In some embodiments, rechargeable battery  310  is a UB  1250  12 volt sealed lead-cell battery. This is by way of example only. In some embodiments, battery  310  is a rechargeable lead cell, nickel-cadmium, lithium hydride, or any other suitable battery, whether rechargeable or not. Many other suitable examples are commercially available and known to those skilled in the art. 
       FIG. 2  additionally shows a means for recharging battery  310  of system  100  with a second DC current  302 . In the embodiment of system  100  shown in  FIG. 2  and in some other embodiments, DC/low voltage side  300  further comprises a low voltage controller  350 , a transformer  320 , and a photovoltaic (“PV”) cell  110 . In this embodiments, low voltage controller  350  selects second DC source  302  from a plurality of sources, such as PV cell  110  or AC power source  104  modified by transformer  320 , for example. In the example embodiment shown in  FIG. 2 , low voltage controller  350  is electrically coupled to PV cell  110 , transformer  320 , battery  310 , and first relay  210 . In some embodiments, low voltage controller  350  selects and routes DC power from second DC source  302  to recharge battery  310 . In some embodiments, low voltage controller also routes DC from first DC source  203 , such as battery  310  in the embodiment shown, to first relay  210 . 
     In some embodiments, low voltage controller  350  selects a DC charging current output from a plurality of available second direct current  302  inputs. In the example embodiment shown by  FIG. 2 , low voltage controller  350  conducts DC from transformer  320  to charge battery  310  under conditions where AC power source  104  is present. Under conditions where AC power source  104  is not present, such as a power outage or disconnection of service, low voltage controller  350  conducts DC from PV cell  110 , provided that DC is available from PV cell  110 . In some embodiments, low voltage controller comprises a battery charging means to regulate DC delivered to battery  310  by monitoring the charge state of battery  310 . Such a charging means functions to maximize the charge status and extend the useful life of battery  310 . Consequently, battery  310  remains fully charged by low voltage controller  350  under conditions where either AC power source  104 , sunlight, or both are available in some embodiments, including the embodiment shown in  FIG. 2 . 
     Transformer  320 , in some embodiments, is an AC/DC step-down transformer operating between 110 volt AC and 12 volt DC voltages. Additionally, transformer  320  receives 110 volt AC line input power to 12 volt DC power for recharging battery  310 , in some embodiments. Transformer  320  may be selected from a variety of commercially available AC/DC step-down voltage transformers to operate between different ranges of AC and DC voltages and amperages depending upon the characteristics of AC power source  104  and the parameters under which low voltage controller  350  recharges battery  310 . These parameters, in turn, depend upon the charging requirements of battery  310 . 
     In some embodiments, PV cell  110  is a photovoltaic cell electrically coupled to low voltage controller  350 . PV cell  110  provides threshold DC amperage at 12 volts to generate a charging current  302  for battery  110  under conditions where PV cell  110  is exposed to adequate incident sunlight. Many suitable examples of photovoltaic cells for use as PV cell  110  are commercially available and may be used in various embodiments of the invention. In some embodiments, PV cell  110  is a relatively small photovoltaic cell, 12 inches to 18 inches by 24 inches, for example, which is secured in a sunlit indoor location, such as an un-shaded southern-facing window, to deter theft or vandalism, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, PV cell  110  is secured in an outdoor location. In some embodiments, PV cell  110  is mounted on the outside of a controller panel  132 . In some embodiments, PV cell  100  is secured to the building&#39;s outer wall, a rooftop, a stand-alone mounting pole, a fence, an out-building or any other suitable outdoor location exposed to sunlight. 
     In some embodiments (not shown in the drawing figures), first DC source  203  comprises PV cell  110 . In these and some other embodiments, low voltage controller  350  conducts DC power from PV cell  110  directly through low voltage junction  305  to first relay  210  when DC power at a threshold voltage is generated by PV cell  110 . 
       FIG. 3  shows an example embodiment of battery interconnected illumination device system  100 .  FIG. 3  shows all the elements of system  100  shown in  FIG. 2  with the addition of a first timed relay  222  and an alarm switch  403 . 
     Electrically interposing first timed relay  222 , shown in  FIG. 2 , between AC power source  104  inputting to dedicated circuit  102  through first relay  210 , in some embodiments, allows high voltage charge present within capacitors and other electronic components of illumination device  160 , dedicated circuit  102 , and first relay  210  at the instant preceding cessation of the external current from AC power source  104  to dissipate charge for a time interval prior to re-energizing these elements with low voltage DC power from first DC source  203 . Additionally, first timed relay  222 , in some embodiments, is a mechanism to increase safety by minimizing or eliminating any risk of electrical arcing or interference between AC and DC in the same circuit. The use of first timed relay  222 , a second timed relay  312  (See  FIG. 4 ), and third timed relay  422  (not shown in the drawing figures) in some embodiments, is by example only. Other electronic components, such as resistors or diodes, for example, may be used in system  100  to accomplish the same or similar function. 
     First timed relay  222  is electrically coupled to AC power source  104 , low voltage controller  350 , and first relay  210 . In some embodiments, first timed relay  222  is a mechanical relay. In some embodiments, first timed relay  222  is a solid state relay. First time relay  222  is electrically interposed between AC and DC input currents and first relay  210  to provide a timed delay between termination of AC power and transmission of DC power from low voltage controller  350  to first relay  210 . In some embodiments, this is a one second delay. In some embodiments, this delay is between 500 milliseconds and one second. In some embodiments, this delay is shorter than 500 milliseconds. In some embodiments, this delay is longer than one second. First timed relay  222  may be selected from mechanical or solid-state relays that are commercially available and known to those with skill in the art. 
     In some embodiments, alarm switch  403  is electrically coupled to dedicated circuit  102 , wherein manual activation of alarm switch  403  causes activation of illumination devices  160 . In some embodiments wherein illumination device  160  comprises a detection and alert device with vibrational alert, manual activation of alarm switch  403  causes activation of a vibrational alert, an audible alert, or both a vibrational alert and an audible alert. Alarm switch  403  allows for manual activation of system  100  by an occupant of a building structure wherein system illumination device  160  is installed, causing illumination device  160  to provide emergency illumination to persons other person present within a building space. 
       FIG. 4  shows a detailed schematic representation of an example embodiment of low voltage controller  350 . Low voltage controller  350  has two functions. First, low voltage controller  350  functions to direct a charging second direct current  302  to battery  310  from a plurality of second direct currents  302 . In some embodiments, second direct current  302  comprises AC power source  104  modified by transformer  320 , such as to rectify an AC current to a DC current, and to either increase or decrease the voltage of the DC current. In some embodiments, second DC source  302  comprises PV panel  110 . In still other embodiments, second direct current  302  comprises a direct current not described herein. Any combination of one, two, three, or more than three second direct currents  302  are electrically coupled to low voltage controller  350  in various embodiments of the invention. Battery  310  supplies first direct current  106  to low voltage junction  305 , via second relay, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, second timed relay  312  in electrically interposed in first direct current  106  between battery  310  and second relay  311 . 
     Second, low voltage controller  350  functions to route DC power from battery  310  directly to first relay  210  or indirectly through first timed relay  222 , depending on whether the embodiment comprises first timed relay  222 . 
     In the example embodiment shown in  FIG. 4 , low voltage controller  350  comprises second relay  311 , second timed relay  312 , and a battery charger  308 . Battery charger  308 , in some embodiments, comprises a commercially available DC battery charger/inverter which uses DC current from PV panel  110 , or AC current from transformer  320  (changed to DC current by the inverter). Low voltage controller  350  is electrically coupled to battery  310 , transformer  320 , and/or PV panel  110 . This arrangement is not meant to be limiting. Any number and combination of electrical/electronic devices can be assembled to perform the two functions disclosed herein above. For example, low voltage controller  350  may simply comprise a unitary solid state device such as a commercially available DC-DC power management integrated circuit known to those skilled in the art. 
     In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 4 , battery  310  is electrically coupled to second timed relay  312  of low voltage controller  350 . Second timed relay  312  functions in a manner analogous to first timed relay  222  discussed herein above. In some embodiments, second timed relay  312  is electrically interposed between battery  310  and second relay  311  and creates a timed delay between termination of DC power from transformer  320  and transmission of DC power from battery  310  to second relay  311 . In some embodiments, this second timed relay  312  creates about a one second delay between arrival of DC from battery  310  and provision of DC to second relay  311 . In some embodiments, the delay is between about 500 milliseconds and about one second. In some embodiments, the delay is shorter than about 500 milliseconds. In some embodiments, the delay is longer than about one second. Second timed relay  312  may be selected from mechanical or solid-state relays that are commercially available and known to those with skill in the art. In some embodiments (not shown), second timed relay  312  is not present and battery  310  is electrically coupled directly to second relay  311 . 
     When no AC power source  104  is available, DC power from battery  310  is routed through low voltage junction  305  to AC/high voltage side  200  (See  FIG. 1 .) 
       FIG. 5  shows a schematic representation of two illumination devices  160  electrically coupled to dedicated circuit  102 . This illustration is by example only and not meant to be limiting. One, three, or any number of illumination devices  160  are electrically coupled to dedicated circuit  102  in some of the various embodiments of the invention. 
     In some embodiments, illumination devices  160  comprises an AC circuit  402  electrically coupled to third relay  410 . In such embodiments, an example of which is shown in  FIG. 5 , third relay  410  is coupled to dedicated circuit current  123  comprising external AC power. Third relay  410  is also coupled, in some embodiments, to a DC circuit  403 . In some embodiments of the invention, illumination device  160  comprises a third relay  410  electrically coupled to an AC circuit  402  of illumination device  160  and a DC circuit  403 , such as the 9 volt battery terminal similar to that found in a commercially available smoke detector. In some embodiments, third relay  410  is absent from illumination device  160  and dedicated circuit current  123 , either AC or DC, is provided illumination device  160  via dedicated circuit  102 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 5 , illumination device  160  comprises third relay  410  (in some embodiments), an AC circuit  402  and a DC circuit  403 . In some embodiments (not shown) illumination device  160  may comprise a third timed relay. A third timed relay is, however, generally not necessary because any interruption in AC power from AC current source  104  is followed by a short delay created by first timed relay  222  prior to DC power from first DC source  203  energizing dedicated circuit  102 . Regardless, following interruption of AC power, third relay  410  directs DC power from dedicated circuit  102  to DC circuit  403 . Under operating conditions wherein AC power energizes dedicated circuit  102 , third relay  410  directs AC power to AC circuit  402 . As noted,  FIG. 5  also shows dedicated circuit current  123 , which comprises AC power originating at AC power source  104  (shown in  FIG. 1 ) or DC power originating at first DC source  203 , depending, as discussed extensively herein, upon whether AC power from AC power source  104  is available. 
       FIG. 6  is a schematic representation of an illumination device  160 .  FIG. 6  shows a back plate  152  and a light source  163 . Light source  163 , in some embodiments, is a fiber optic strand mounted on an exterior surface of illumination device  160 , wherein light from light source  163  is reflected off a mounting surface into the surrounding building space, creating diffuse illumination of the space with reflected light. (See  FIG. 8 a - b   .) This is by way of example, and not meant to be limiting. Additional examples of light source  163  include but are not limited to a light emitting diode (LED), fluorescent bulb, incandescent bulb, halogen bulb, laser, and the like. 
     In some embodiments, light source  163  generates green light. Test subjects placed in a dark room found illumination of the room with indirect green light to be more illuminative of a larger space when compared to illumination of the room with indirect white light. The green light provides illumination of a space to allow for safe egress of a person from the space, particularly under conditions wherein a primary source of illumination is absent, such as during a failure of the supply of AC line power to the building. In some embodiments, a plurality of illumination devices  160  are mounted in sequence to mark a route of building egress with a distinctive color light, such as a green color, for example. An occupant of a building space may find a path of egress from the space illuminated with colored light by an arrangement of illumination devices  160  along the path, even if the building&#39;s regular lighting is still functional and otherwise provides illumination of the space with white light. 
     Light source  163 , in some embodiments, directs a light onto back plate  152  of alert device  160 . Back plate  152 , in some embodiments, is coupled to a building structure. In some embodiments, back plate  152  mounts directly to a standard commercially available electrical junction box, such as the type of junction box used to mount a light fixture, ceiling fan, or like electrical device to a ceiling of a building structure. This example is not meant to be limiting, in some embodiments, back plate  152  is mounted to an electrical junction box on a wall or any other structural element of a building. Such junction boxes are typically fastened directly to frame elements of a building, using fasteners such as by nails, screws, other fasteners, and the like. 
       FIG. 6  additionally shows AC circuit  402  and DC circuit  403  electrically coupled to third relay  410 . In some embodiments wherein illumination device  160 -comprises third relay  410 , third relay  410  is electrically coupled to dedicated circuit  102  and electrically interposed between dedicated circuit  102  and both AC circuit  402  and DC circuit  403 . AC circuit  402 , in some embodiments, comprises any of many possible circuit means to modify an AC current conducted through dedicated circuit  102  to a DC current of suitable voltage to operate light source  163  and additional electrical components, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, AC circuit  402  comprises a voltage transformer. In some embodiments, AC circuit  402  comprises an AC to DC rectifier. In some embodiments, AC circuit  402  is electrically coupled to vibrational source  153 . In some embodiments, AC circuit  402  is electrically coupled to DC circuit  402  which, in turn, is electrically coupled to light source  163 . It is to be understood that many circuit configurations and electrical couplings are possible to create embodiments of illumination device  160  wherein either an incoming AC from dedicated circuit  102  or a DC from dedicated circuit  102  is used, whether modified or un-modified, to power light source  163 . 
       FIG. 7  is a schematic representation of some alternative embodiments of illumination device  160  comprising multiple examples of possible detection and alert means. These examples are not meant to be limiting; illumination device  160  may comprise additional or alternative detection devices besides those examples noted in  FIG. 7  and discussed herein below. 
       FIG. 7  shows alert device  160  comprising additional elements of battery interconnected illumination device system  100 , present in some embodiments. In some embodiments, battery interconnected illumination device system  100  further comprises an emergency lighting system. The emergency lighting system is activated by DC power from first DC source  203  conducted through first relay  210  to alert device  160  following an interruption of AC power source  104 , in some embodiments. In some embodiments, detection and alert device  160  comprises a visual alert  171 . Visual alert communicates the presence of a condition, such as an emergency condition, to a person viewing visual alert  171 . Visual alert  171  is distinguished from light source  163  in that visual alert  171 , although visible to a person in a space, does not necessarily illuminate the space, wherein light source  163  does illuminate the space at a sufficient level for a person present in the space to safely exit the space, if necessary. Some non-limiting examples of visual alerts include a light source, such as a light-emitting diode, which is activated with activation of illumination device  160 . In some embodiments, visual alert  171  is a flashing light. In some embodiments, visual alert  171  flashes in a pattern synchronous with pulsed vibrations of a vibrational alert caused by a vibration source  153 . In some embodiments, visual alert  171  flashes in a pattern asynchronous with vibrations caused by vibration source  153 . 
     As additionally shown in  FIG. 7 , in some embodiments, illumination device  160  comprises a smoke detector  173 , such as a conventional smoke detection device. In some embodiments, illumination device  160  comprises a carbon monoxide detector  174 , such as a conventional carbon monoxide detection device. In some embodiments, illumination device  160  comprises an intruder detector  175 , such as a conventional motion detector or alternative intruder detection device. In some embodiments, illumination device  160  comprises a radon gas detector  177 , such as a conventional radon gas detection device. In some embodiments, illumination device  160  comprises a communication link  178 . 
     In some or all these embodiments, battery interconnected illumination device system  100  comprises a detection device, such as one of the aforementioned non-limiting examples of detection devices, to trigger a vibrational alert by activation of vibration source  153 . Activation of vibration source  153  transmits a vibration to a building structure, as discussed herein above, and alerts a person in contact with the building structure to the existence of a possible emergency condition. Vibration source  153 , in some embodiments, is coupled to the building structure through a mounting means, such as back plate  152  in some embodiments, coupling alert device  160  to the building structure. In some embodiments, alert device  160  is mounted on a conventional electrical junction box contained with a ceiling, a wall, or another component of the building structure. Vibrations arising from vibration source  153  are transmitted through alert device  160  via the mounting means to the ceiling, wall, or other building structure component throughout structural components of the building structure in physical continuity with alert device  160 &#39;s location. 
     The effectiveness of the vibrations in waking a sleeping person is increased when the vibrations are intermittent and alternating with periods of no vibration, such as pulsed vibrations. Moreover, illumination device  160 , in some embodiments, uses a pattern of pulsed vibrations to communicate the nature of an emergency situation to the person, and also to communicate at least simple instructions, such as remain in the room, immediately exit the building, etc. In some embodiments, a standardized language of patterned pulsed vibrations is used to communicate the nature of an emergency. In some embodiments, the standardized language is used to communicate instructions to a person. 
     In some embodiments, illumination device  160  comprises a communication link  178 . Communication link  178  activates alert device  160 , in some embodiments, when instructed to do so by a government public safety warning system, such as the Public Alert and Warning System operated by the United States Department of Homeland Security, for example. In some embodiments, communication link  178  is a wireless communication link. In some embodiments, communication link  178  is a wired communication link. In some embodiments, communication link  178  is activated by the NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards alert system. In some embodiments, other federal, state, and municipal government alert systems activate alert device  160  through communication link  178 . 
       FIG. 8 a    is a side view of an illumination device  160  coupled to a mounting surface.  FIG. 8 b    is an exploded side view of same.  FIG. 8 a - b    shows illumination device  160 , light source  163 , back plate  152 , a gap  161 , a mounting surface  164 , and a junction box  162 . In some embodiments, illumination device  160  couples to junction box  162 . In some embodiments junction box  162  is a standard electrical junction box. This is not, however, meant to be limiting. Junction box  162  comprises any housing coupled to a building and recessed into a building surface, such as a wall or ceiling, and provides a means wherein back plate  152  couples to a structural elements of the building surface. In some embodiments of battery interconnected illumination device system  100 , mounting plate  152  is coupled directly to a building or other surface, such as an outdoor wall, or the like.  FIG. 8 a    shows junction box  162  simply to illustrate a safe and effective means of coupling back plate  152  of illumination device  160  to a building surface. Other safe and effective means of coupling illumination device  160  to a surface are possible. 
       FIG. 8 a - b    additionally shows gap  161 , formed by back plate  152  causing light source  161  of illumination device  160  to be offset from mounting surface  164 . Gap  161  allows a direct light from light source  161  to be reflected from mounting surface  164  into a building or other space, creating a reflected light  165 , as shown in  FIG. 8 . The size of gap  161  is represented by a distance “D.” D, in some embodiments, is determined by the intensity and color of light from light source  161 . In some embodiments, D measures about one millimeter. In some embodiments, D measures up to about fifteen (15) centimeters. In some embodiments, D measures about 5 millimeters. 
     Reflected light  165 , in some embodiments, is a green-colored light with a wavelength between about 470 nanometers and about 580 nanometers. Such a green colored light creates a soft glow within almost no perceptible glare, yet readily reflects off mounting surface  164 , illuminating a relatively large space sufficient for a person present in the space to safely adequately visualize the space for safe egress. 
     Mounting surface  164 , in some embodiments, is a painted surface, such as an interior or exterior building wall, or an interior building ceiling. Conventional paint such as that commonly used to paint interior and exterior surfaces of a building is often sufficiently reflective to cause most of light from light source  163  to become reflected light  165 . In some embodiments, however, a reflective coating is coupled to mounting surface  164  to increase reflectivity of mounting surface  164 . 
       FIG. 9  is a schematic diagram of a method of creating a detection and alert device system.  FIG. 9  shows a method  600  comprising an activating step  610 , a directing step  620 , and an illuminating step  630 . 
     Activating step  610 , in some embodiments, comprises activating an illumination device comprising a light source. In some embodiments under a condition wherein AC power is coupled to the illumination device, the AC power causes illumination of the light source, including illumination of the light source with rectified DC power originating from the AC power. In some embodiments, the illumination device is electrically coupled to a dedicated circuit, wherein electrical loads in the building separate from the illumination devices and alarm switches are not coupled to the dedicated circuit, electrically isolating the illumination devise and alarm switches from other electrical loads, in some embodiments. 
     Directing step  620 , in some embodiments, comprises directing a light from the illumination device onto a mounting surface across a gap between the illumination device and the mounting surface. In some embodiments, directing step is achieved by a light source positioned on an exterior surface of the illumination device facing the mounting surface, wherein light from the light source shines across the gap directly onto the mounting surface, causing light to be reflected off of the mounting surface into a larger space, wherein the larger space is illuminated indirectly by the reflected light. In some embodiments, reflectivity of the mounting surface is increased by a reflective coating, such as a reflective paint or similar coating, coupled to the mounting surface. 
     In some embodiments, the light source is a circumferential light source, such as a solid plastic or glass thin “donut” which forms a generally elliptical shape on the exterior surface of the illumination device, causing light to be directed onto the mounting surface circumferentially around the perimeter of the illumination device. In some embodiments, the light source is a source of a colored light. In some embodiments, the colored light is a green light. 
     Illuminating step  630 , in some embodiments, comprises illuminating a space in response to the light reflecting off the mounting surface. Illumination of the space is caused by the reflected light, which provides diffuse, indirect illumination to the space. The reflected light produces less glare than a direct light, causing illumination of an effectively larger space when contrasted to illumination of a space with non-reflected direct lighting. 
       FIG. 10  is a schematic diagram of an additional embodiment of the method of creating a detection and alert device system.  FIG. 10  shows method  600  further comprising a synchronizing step  640 . In some embodiments, synchronizing step  640  of method  600  comprises synchronizing a pattern of pulsed vibrations and pulsed illuminations, wherein the illumination device comprises a pulsed vibrational source and wherein the light source is a pulsed light source, which communicates a condition to a person perceiving the synchronized pattern of pulsed vibrations caused by the pulsed vibrational source and the pattern or pulsed illuminations caused by the pulsed light source. In some embodiments, the pulsed vibrations and illuminations are in phase with one another. In some embodiments, the pulsed vibrations and illuminations are out of phase with one another in a regular phasic relationship. The foregoing examples of the regular phasic relationship between the pulsed vibrations and the pulsed illuminations are not meant to be limiting. The phase relationship between the pulsed vibrations and the pulsed illuminations may be anywhere on a continuous spectrum from completely in phase to completely out of phase. In some embodiments, the condition is an emergency condition. In some embodiments, the communication also includes instructions, according to a standard pattern of synchronized pulsed vibrations and illuminations. 
     A battery interconnected illumination device system has been described. The illumination device and system described herein provides a means for continuous, reliable DC backup of an interconnected network of illumination devices in or outside a building by locating a DC battery in a location convenient to the user, and, in some embodiments, by providing a means to continuously or intermittently recharge a rechargeable battery. It is to be understood that the embodiments of the battery interconnected illumination device and system according to the invention as shown and described is an example only and that many other embodiments of the battery interconnected illumination device and system according to the invention are possible and envisioned. 
     The embodiments and examples set forth herein were presented in order to best explain the present invention and its practical application and to thereby enable those of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention. However, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the foregoing description and examples have been presented for the purposes of illustration and example only. The description as set forth is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the teachings above.