With Furniture Patents (Class 362/127)
  • Patent number: 7287872
    Abstract: Upper support portions 4 are respectively provided at respective upper end sections of a pair of support columns 1, 1? such that the position of the upper support portions can be adjusted in an up-down direction. Lower support portions 5 are respectively provided at respective lower end sections of a pair of support columns 1, 1? such that the position of the lower support portions can be adjusted in an up-down direction. A pair of wires 13, 13 is provided to extend between the lower support portion 5 and the upper support portion 4 of the support column 1. Another pair of wires 13, 13 is provided to extend between the lower support portion 5 and the upper support portion 4 of the support column 1?.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Assignee: Sugatsune Kogyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Harunobu Kubota
  • Patent number: 7140763
    Abstract: Improved light distribution means comprising light distribution means constructed of material such as plastic, transparent metals and the like, which is strong enough to be used as permanent or mobile structural components of buildings, sidewalks, streets and the like, and as signs, furniture and the like, and having a pair of lens panels formed with a flat front, light emitting surface and an inclined rear light reflecting surface, together with a light source located in a recess formed in the lens panels and serving to deliver light into said lens panels for distribution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Inventor: Carol I. Keith-Wolfe
  • Patent number: 7131746
    Abstract: The shelf light is for fitting in a shelf of an article of furniture. It comprises a two part body and a light emitting diode assembly housed within the body. The part of the body has an integral cover plate which in use lies against one major surface of the shelf and the other part comprises a flange which is arranged in a plane parallel to, but spaced from, the plane of the cover plate and which in use lies against the other major surface of the shelf.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Inventor: Bernard Cook
  • Patent number: 7080919
    Abstract: Seating structures having (1) an internal image projector for projecting images on the exterior surface of such seating structures and (2) an internal source of illumination with color changing capability, the effect of which is visible on the exterior surface of the seating structures are disclosed. The image projection technology is powered by a standard AC outlet and operated by remote control. The illumination technology is powered by either an AC outlet or battery and is operated by remote control. An internal or external DVD or other data source may be incorporated for image projection. The housing of the projection source provides maximum image throw and quality. The internal construction of the seating structure achieves high-quality projected images and maintains comfortable sitting conditions. The housing of the internal light source achieves a high-impact lighting effect. Mini-coolant fans mounted in the seating structure maintain a low temperature within the seating structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Assignee: Ethos Design
    Inventor: Armen Sevada Gharabegian
  • Patent number: 6955448
    Abstract: A low profile night light adapted to be positioned in a substantially level plane atop a floor has cylindrical sidewalls and apertures formed in the sidewalls at regularly spaced intervals. At least one light source such as an incandescent or fluorescent light or a light-emitting diode is positioned in registration with at least one of the apertures so that the at least one light source illuminates a fan-shaped area of a floor. A circular area is illuminated if a light source is placed into registration with each aperture. The night light may be positioned under a bed or other item of furniture and may be battery operated or connected to a wall outlet by an elongate power cord. Unlike a conventional night light that illuminates only an area near an electrical wall outlet, the novel night light can be positioned anywhere on a floor where a tripping hazard might exist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Inventor: Peter Lefferson
  • Patent number: 6951406
    Abstract: A task light for use in modular office furniture includes a housing having a peripheral frame defining a display area. The frame has a hollow chase. A plurality of circuit boards are mounted to the housing within the display area. Each circuit board has a plurality of light emitting diodes arranged to emit light from the display area. A plurality of electrical conductors are routed within the frame through the hollow chase. Each electrical conductor is connected with a corresponding circuit board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2005
    Assignee: Pent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Kent A. Becker
  • Patent number: 6926433
    Abstract: An automotive headlamp shield may be formed with a self-locating mount. The housing contains a mounting receptacle with three closed sides, an open side, a substantially solid bottom with a laterally extending slot and a top containing an opening. One sub-assembly has a planar surface with an aperture, a solid rear wall and a depending side wall. When assembled, the depending sidewall fits into the slot and protrudes therefrom. Another sub-assembly has an upper surface and four walls including a front wall, a back wall and two sides. A compressible planar latch is associated with the upper surface and a first spring is associated with a side and a second spring is associated with the back. The second sub-assembly is hollow and the springs and the compressible latch are formed from the upper surface and respective sides. The structure is light weight and easy to manipulate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Assignee: Valeo Sylvania L.L.C.
    Inventor: Kevin G. Burke
  • Patent number: 6918679
    Abstract: A self-illuminating display shelf assembly includes at least one shelf member formed as a light guide panel, a shelf support to hold the shelf member in a horizontal position, and an irradiating unit for irradiating the light guide panel. The light guide panel includes a top face, a bottom face, and an edge face interconnecting the top and bottom faces. The irradiating unit includes an elongated shroud mounted on the light guide panel and covering the edge face, and a light emitting element mounted on the shroud and confronting the edge face. The light emitting element is operable so as to produce light that is incident on the edge face of the light guide panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2005
    Inventor: San-Chih Wu
  • Patent number: 6840657
    Abstract: A sunshade includes a post having a rib-mounting member mounted thereon, a plurality of ribs each having an upper end pivotally connected to the rib-mounting member, a runner slidably mounted on the post, a plurality of stretchers each having an upper end pivotally connected to an intermediate portion of an associated rib and a lower end pivotally connected to the runner, a solar energy device mounted on the sunshade for receiving solar energy and transforming solar energy into electricity, and at least one light unit mounted on at least one of the ribs. The light unit is electrically connected to the solar energy device, thereby providing illumination without the need of an external power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Inventor: Benson Tung
  • Patent number: 6830356
    Abstract: A magnifying and illuminating apparatus which can both be fitted onto existing lecterns or used as an integral part of an improved lectern and which combines a light source and a magnifying element in order to improve visibility of the viewable material placed under it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Inventor: André Larocque
  • Patent number: 6827465
    Abstract: A display lighting system is provided that assembles and installs easily. Luminaires of the system include a pair of arms and a wireway enclosure positioned between the arms at one end of the arms. The enclosure is dimensioned to enclose electrical wiring and at least one electrical component, such as a ballast or transformer. A lamp housing can be attached to the arms at the end opposite the enclosure. An uplight lamp housing is easily mounted to the arms anywhere between the wireway enclosure and lamp housing. Wiring between the enclosure and lamp housings is carried inconspicuously in a trough along the inside of one or both arms. Wiring between adjacent luminaires runs conveniently through nipple connectors connecting adjacent enclosures. Optional accent lighting is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: Sylvan R. Shemitz Designs, Inc.
    Inventors: Sylvan R. Shemitz, Paul R. Ford, David B. Miller
  • Publication number: 20040228122
    Abstract: A modular furniture system is provided having vertical members with internal conductors. The conductors are coupled to a source of low voltage electrical power such that adjacent vertical members are of differing electrical polarity. Support members for use in the modular furniture system are designed to make electrical contact with the internal conductors when engaged in a vertical member. An electrical device, such as a light fixture, may be coupled between a pair of brackets engaged in vertical members of opposite polarity, energizing the electrical device. Embodiments are provided for use in merchandising displays and office partition systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2004
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Inventors: Bruce M. Slesinger, Thomas L. Collom, Frank Neidhardt
  • Publication number: 20040212990
    Abstract: A task light for use in modular office furniture includes a housing having a peripheral frame defining a display area. The frame has a hollow chase. A plurality of circuit boards are mounted to the housing within the display area. Each circuit board has a plurality of light emitting diodes arranged to emit light from the display area. A plurality of electrical conductors are routed within the frame through the hollow chase. Each electrical conductor is connected with a corresponding circuit board.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2003
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Inventor: Kent A. Becker
  • Patent number: 6808285
    Abstract: Wireway enclosures are provided for use with lighting systems, particularly display lighting systems. The wireway enclosures are dimensioned to enclose luminaire wiring and preferably other types of wiring and at least one electrical component, such as a ballast or transformer. Wireway enclosures include preferably extruded first and second longitudinal portions hinged together to allow access to the inside of the enclosure. Wiring between adjacent luminaires can run conveniently and inconspicuously through nipple connectors connecting adjacent enclosures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2004
    Assignee: Sylvan R. Shemitz Designs, Inc.
    Inventors: Sylvan R. Shemitz, Paul R. Ford
  • Publication number: 20040160763
    Abstract: A projection display system can display large projected images onto a projection surface in a small space or a small room without occupying a space over a table or a desk placed therein, and can easily be detachably mounted in place and carried around. A projector installation fixture is mounted on a side end of an upper surface panel of the table or the desk near the projection surface, and a front-projection projector is detachably installed in place by the projector installation fixture. The front-projection projector has an optical system including an aspherical mirror at a final stage thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2004
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Applicant: NEC VIEWTECHNOLOGY, LTD
    Inventor: Masami Saito
  • Publication number: 20040001334
    Abstract: A light for a barbecue grill is provided. The light has a housing mounted to the lid of a barbecue grill, and the housing contains a light source, a power source, a controller and a switch. The switch may be a manual switch or an automatic tilt switch. The switches manipulate illumination of the light sources when the lid of the barbecue grill is opened.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2002
    Publication date: January 1, 2004
    Inventors: Daniel S. Choi, Adrian A. Bruno
  • Publication number: 20040001335
    Abstract: The arched lamp case for a game machine is provided with a lamp frame in the shape of an arched frame, a lot of LED′ are mounted thereon, and is provided with a changeable external frame member of which the inner side can be fixedly connected to the lamp frame, a transparent internal lining frame member is provided between the external frame member and the lamp frame. The LED's can be exposed via through holes provided on the external frame member, and can flash in pursuance of digital signals generated according to the kinds of rewards of games or in pursuance of analog signals of sounds. Thereby, acoustic and video effects can be increased when the lamp case is installed on a game machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2002
    Publication date: January 1, 2004
    Applicant: Subsino Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: David Wu
  • Patent number: 6659620
    Abstract: A portable lighting apparatus includes a storage case section, and a lid section connected to the storage case section such that the lid section can be opened and closed. The storage case section includes a power supply, a plurality of lighting units connected to the power supply, and a photographing stage. The lid section includes a back screen arranged in front thereof. When fashioned as a desk-type lighting apparatus, a storage desk section is used in place of the storage case section, and the lid is attached thereto in a manner permitting opening and closing thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Inventor: Teruki Goto
  • Patent number: 6632001
    Abstract: A closet hanging rod structure with an illumination function is provided having a voltage-regulating device, two fixing units, two adjustment units, and a hanging rod. The voltage-regulating device is fixedly disposed at a predetermined position inside a closet or a wardrobe. The two fixing units are fixedly disposed on a partition board of the closet or the wardrobe. The adjustment units can be joined with the two fixing units. Two ends of the hanging rod are joined at one end of the two adjustment units. The adjustment units can be used to adjust the height of the hanging rod. The voltage-regulating device is used to provide a stable voltage for supplying required electricity for the lamp tube in the hanging rod, hence achieving an untrammeled and high-brightness illumination effect and avoiding the problem of insufficient light required for selecting or discriminating clothes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2003
    Inventor: Chia-Teh Chen
  • Patent number: 6619814
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a Showcase which is capable of enlarging a good housing space and which is provided with a lighting system that can be easily maintained, and the Showcase constitutes in a heat insulating wall a storeroom for displaying goods and provides a flat fluorescent lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignee: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Housaku Hamada, Harunobu Iguchi, Toshiaki Miyatake, Shigeru Arai, Syuuji Kashide, Kazuo Tetukawa
  • Publication number: 20030151911
    Abstract: A display seat for displaying glass and crystal articles of display includes a seat body which is a plate or a layered plate formed from a transparent plastic material or glass. The seat body has a bottom portion formed with a recess. A circuit substrate board having a plurality of light emitting diodes is insertably disposed in the recess. The display seat can be connected to an external power source or a battery source to establish electrical connection for activating the light emitting diodes. Shallow grooves can be formed in a top portion of the seat body for placement of round or curved articles of display. Beams of light emitting from the light emitting diodes penetrate through the plastic or glass seat body toward the articles of display on the seat body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Su-Mei Chen
  • Patent number: 6595654
    Abstract: The invention concerns a lighting system for furniture, in this case a bed fabricated of PVC pipe, which combines bedpost-mounted halogen illumination and under-bed electroluminescent illumination. The arrangement of the low-voltage lamps within the bed frame itself provides sufficient ambient lighting for the whole bedroom. This eliminates the need for other bedroom lighting such as table lamps or floor lamps, therefore conserving space. The touch switch feature makes turning on the lights extraordinarily convenient by allowing for operation while still in bed, by locating the touch pads on or near the headboard within easy reach. The dimmer feature adjusts the intensity of the lights for appropriate atmosphere and easy wake up lighting as opposed to typical harsh lighting first thing in the morning. Under lighting provides sufficient non-intrusive late-night visibility without interrupting sleep, in addition to the aesthetically pleasing “floating” appearance of the bed itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Inventor: Patrick Lem Washburn
  • Patent number: 6571519
    Abstract: A space dividing system includes a column and a series of partition panels adapted for interconnection with the column. The column includes an internal passage, and is adapted to receive wiring from a building for supplying power to a receptacle arrangement interconnected with the column. Adjacent panels are connected to the column at spaced locations, and the receptacle arrangement is exposed between the adjacent panels. The column includes a structural skeleton to which the receptacle arrangement is mounted, and a series of covers are releasably engaged with the structural skeleton for finishing the aesthetic appearance of the column. An adjustable height mounting arrangement is interconnected with the upper end of the column for connection to a ceiling to stabilize the upper end of the column. Each panel is in the form of a frame defining an opening within which a core is received.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: Krueger International, Inc.
    Inventors: Niels Diffrient, Timothy J. Bouche, Andrew J. Kopish
  • Patent number: 6565234
    Abstract: A halogen light fixture for mounting under a cabinet and over a counter surface, as in a kitchen, has a housing of continuous cross section between opposite end caps adaptable to fixtures of varying lengths, a rapidly accessible wiring compartment by tool free removal of a single partition, and an air flow path through the fixture housing including a heat shield arrangement for effective heat dissipation and cooler operation of the fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Assignee: Troy-CSL Lighting, Inc.
    Inventors: Maer Skegin, Mark A. Pickett, Scott Searle
  • Patent number: 6547419
    Abstract: Disclosed herein of formation and use of decorative articles utilizing a natural wooden veneer which is back lit and thereby highlighted by a light source which brings out the beauty of the natural grain of the wooden which utilized to form a thin wooden veneer. A variety of natural wooden veneers may be utilized including oak, cherry, maple, walnut, and birch. Alternatively, a synthetic thin wooden veneer may be utilized in the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Inventor: David M. Brackman
  • Patent number: 6533130
    Abstract: A display rack for displaying displayed items can be an opaque cabinet with a light source located in the opaque cabinet. The cabinet has a transparent light pipe having a light accepting end and a light emitting end, connected by a light conducting body having an index of refraction that transmits light from the light accepting end to the light emitting end. The cabinet has at least a first tray having an item display portion for holding the displayed item and a second tray having an opaque bottom wall and an opaque front portion configured to operably connect the light accepting end of the transparent light pipe to the light source and maintains the light emitting end of the light pipe in a position where the light emitted by the light emitting end illuminates the card holding portion of the first tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Assignee: Cormark, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Padiak, Thomas M. Conway
  • Patent number: 6527544
    Abstract: A display stand for displaying at least one object such as a pumpkin thereon, comprising a support including an upper end and a lower end, wherein the lower end is adapted for maintaining the support in a generally upright position relative to a surface upon which the support is placed. A base is connected to the upper end of the support and includes an up per surface for receiving and supporting the object thereon, and the upper surface defines a threaded bore extending therethrough. The display stand also includes a complementary elongate threaded member adapted for being matingly threaded into the bore. The elongate threaded member extends in an upright direction above the upper surface for securing the object thereto, thereby stabilizing the object on the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Inventors: Michael Leavon Salter, Brenda Charlene Salter
  • Patent number: 6527406
    Abstract: A modular furniture system is provided having vertical members with internal conductors. The conductors are coupled to a source of low voltage electrical power such that adjacent vertical members are of differing electrical polarity. Support members for use in the modular furniture system are designed to make electrical contact with the internal conductors when engaged in a vertical member. An electrical device, such as a light fixture, may be coupled between a pair of brackets engaged in vertical members of opposite polarity, energizing the electrical device. Embodiments are provided for use in merchandising displays and office partition systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Powerwall, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce M. Slesinger, Thomas L. Collom, Frank Neidhardt
  • Publication number: 20030012018
    Abstract: The invention relates to a lighting element (1), comprising at least one light source (4) and at least one base element (2) which is at least partially provided with a translucent material. The lighting element (1) can be freely put up and the at least one light source (4) is disposed within the base element (2). The lateral surfaces of the lighting element (1) are preferably completely provided with said translucent material, for example a PVC film, so that the light sources (4) within the lighting elements (1) are not visible from the exterior. The individual lighting elements (1) can be easily interconnected via suitable plug-in connectors (5, 8) so that the lighting elements can be simultaneously used as pieces of furniture, for example as room dividers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2002
    Publication date: January 16, 2003
    Inventor: Manfred Kluth
  • Patent number: 6502959
    Abstract: An illumination device used in a compact disk receiving frame is disclosed. The illumination device includes a body. An electric wire is installed within the body. Another end of the electric wire is connected to a pressable switch. Each of two sides of the pressable switch is installed with a telescopic rod. A plate is installed between the two rod bodies. The plate serves, to prevent a short circuit due to contact of the two rod bodies. One end of each of die two rod bodies is connected to a lampshade. A bulb is installed in the lampshade. Thus, this illumination device is placed in the CD receiving frame to achieve the effect of illumination. Moreover, the user may read the data in the compact disks within the CD receiving frame conveniently.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Inventor: Jack Lin
  • Patent number: 6478444
    Abstract: A furniture unit has a plurality of mutually delimited furniture compartments, which in particular are designed as display cabinets. At least one lighting member can be installed as required in each furniture compartment. Rod elements of a predetermined length are provided to carry the electrical current and are affixed within the furniture unit. Furthermore, mountings are provided whereby the rod elements can each be completely retained within a furniture compartment. Connection elements provide an electrical connection between rod elements of different furniture compartments. The connection elements are designed as flexible conductors in some regions and may be 1:n branches (n=2, 3, etc.). The mountings are so arranged and designed that the rod elements are essentially fixed at both ends, it being possible for the connection elements to be connected at any time, as necessary to the ends of the rod elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Assignee: USM Holding AG
    Inventors: Alexander Schaerer, Stephan Kuenzi, Fritz Fluehmann
  • Publication number: 20020159246
    Abstract: Illuminated display solutions for structures, such as tables and vending machines, are described. In one embodiment, an EL lamp is positioned beneath a light-transmissive table panel such that the lamp may be viewed within a viewing area of a table. Alternatively, the panel can be removed and replaced with an integrated table panel formed of an electrolumienscent lamp and surface framing surrounding the panel. In accordance with one embodiment, the table panel is rotatably connected to an underlying structure. The underlying structure is configured to support an EL lamp thereon such that the table panel can be rotated to overlie the EL lamp. The EL lamp is then viewed through the light-transmissive viewing area of the table panel. Optionally, a table base, such as a pedestal or table legs, may be mounted below the underlying structure to support the entire system. In another embodiment, an electroluminescent lamp is positioned at a reserved area of a panel of a vending machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2002
    Publication date: October 31, 2002
    Inventors: Matthew Murasko, Patrick J. Kinlen
  • Patent number: 6464371
    Abstract: A table having a light source diffused throughout its structure. The intensity and color of the light source can be varied using remote controlling devices. The color and intensity of the light emanating from the table may thus be synchronized with music or other entertainment media.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Inventor: Chad Louis Bender
  • Publication number: 20020126474
    Abstract: An illumination device used in a compact disk receiving frame is disclosed. The illumination device includes a body. An electric wire is installed within the body. Another end of the electric wire is connected to a pressable switch. Each of two sides of the pressable switch is installed with a telescopic rod. A plate is installed between the two rod bodies. The plate serves to prevent from short circuit due to contact of the two rod bodies. One end of each of the two rod bodies is connected to a lampshade. A bulb is installed in the lampshade. Thereby, this illumination device is placed in the CD receiving frame so as to achieve the effect of illumination. Moreover, the user may read the data in the compact disks within the CD receiving frame conveniently.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2001
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Inventor: Jack Lin
  • Publication number: 20020126499
    Abstract: A table having a light source diffused throughout its structure. The intensity and color of the light source can be varied using remote controlling devices. The color and intensity of the light emanating from the table may thus be synchronized with music or other entertainment media.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2001
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Inventor: Chad Louis Bender
  • Patent number: 6431721
    Abstract: A display lighting system is provided that assembles and installs easily and provides a wireway for luminaire and other types of wiring. Luminaires of the system each include a lamp housing attached to the ends of a pair of arms that can hold the housing sufficiently out beyond a displayed object to provide more complete illumination of the object's vertical face. Each luminaire includes a wireway enclosure dimensioned to enclose electrical wiring and at least one electrical component, such as a ballast or transformer. The enclosure is positioned between the arms at the ends opposite the lamp housing. Wiring between the lamp housing and enclosure is carried inconspicuously in a trough along the inside of one or both arms. Wiring between adjacent luminaires runs conveniently through nipple connectors connecting adjacent enclosures. Optional uplighting and accent lighting is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Assignee: Sylvan R. Shemitz Designs, Inc.
    Inventors: Sylvan R. Shemitz, Paul R. Ford
  • Publication number: 20020085373
    Abstract: A modular furniture system is provided having vertical members with internal conductors. The conductors are coupled to a source of low voltage electrical power such that adjacent vertical members are of differing electrical polarity. Support members for use in the modular furniture system are designed to make electrical contact with the internal conductors when engaged in a vertical member. An electrical device, such as a light fixture, may be coupled between a pair of brackets engaged in vertical members of opposite polarity, energizing the electrical device. Embodiments are provided for use in merchandising displays and office partition systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2002
    Publication date: July 4, 2002
    Applicant: Powerwall, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce M. Slesinger, Thomas L. Collom, Frank Neidhardt
  • Patent number: 6394627
    Abstract: A cutlery base with built-in illumination equipment. The cutlery base has formed in its top end a plurality of insertion slots that provide for ensheathing cutlery and, furthermore, the cutlery base has an opening formed in at least one of its lateral surfaces that is contiguous with the insertion slots and a translucent component is inserted into the opening of the cutlery base. The cutlery base has conjoined to its bottom end a footing of a matching shape and an illuminant is installed inside the footing. Covering the contact surfaces between the said footing and the cutlery base is a translucent waterproof hood. During utilization, the light rays emitted by the illuminant inside the footing penetrate the translucent waterproof hood and are projected into the cutlery base and then are projected outward through the translucent component of the cutlery base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Inventor: Li-hsueh Lo
  • Patent number: 6386723
    Abstract: A tasklight includes a first elongated cover portion defining a first elongated side edge. A second elongated cover portion is connected to the first cover portion, and defines therewith a housing having a lower side. The second elongated cover portion defines a second elongated side edge, and the second side edge is spaced-apart from the first side edge to define an open space between the first and second side edges that extends along a rear side of said housing. An elongated light source is positioned proximate the lower side of the housing. A reflective surface on the lower side of the housing has a shape configured to distribute light produced by the light source forwardly onto the worksurface. The reflective surface forms a passageway with the open space of the housing, and permits heat produced by the light source to escape through the open space of the housing by convection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: David C. Eberlein, Douglas D. Buyce, Terry L. Lautzenheiser, Michael W. Welsh, Jonathan J. King, Michael C. Andrusiak, Royal A. Kent
  • Patent number: 6364502
    Abstract: A lighting fixture suitable for use in a bathroom, vanity, or similar application includes an extended fixture with multiple light bulbs. The light bulbs are spaced from the fixture in such a manner that the bulbs do not lie on a single line. The back plate may have a curving portion for supporting the bulbs in a non-linear manner, or individual spacers of different lengths may be used to project the bulbs different distances from a planar backplate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Assignee: Quorum International, L.P.
    Inventor: Aaron Mitchell Johnson
  • Publication number: 20020018342
    Abstract: A display lighting system is provided that assembles and installs easily and provides a wireway for luminaire and other types of wiring. Luminaires of the system each include a lamp housing attached to the ends of a pair of arms that can hold the housing sufficiently out beyond a displayed object to provide more complete illumination of the object's vertical face. Each luminaire includes a wireway enclosure dimensioned to enclose electrical wiring and at least one electrical component, such as a ballast or transformer. The enclosure is positioned between the arms at the ends opposite the lamp housing. Wiring between the lamp housing and enclosure is carried inconspicuously in a trough along the inside of one or both arms. Wiring between adjacent luminaires runs conveniently through nipple connectors connecting adjacent enclosures. Optional uplighting and accent lighting is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Applicant: Sylvan R. Shemitz Designs, Inc.
    Inventors: Sylvan R. Shemitz, Paul R. Ford
  • Publication number: 20020005019
    Abstract: A system of directional lights for use in office spaces, wherein each of individual directional lights is adapted to be plugged into electrical outlets and has a selectable directional indicator. The directional light has light transmitting windows in its front face which selectively transmit light to indicate a select direction. The directional lights thereby are portable and reconfigurable, and are mounted throughout an office area to direct occupants to a destination such as an exit or conference room.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2001
    Publication date: January 17, 2002
    Inventors: Richard Trilli, Rick Perkins, Charles Saylor
  • Publication number: 20010052153
    Abstract: A cushion/backrest including an integrated reading lamp tethered at the end of a flexible member is disclosed for providing the user with a source of light for reading or watching television. The cushion may also include built in massage motors for providing the user with a massaging action to the back. Controls for adjusting the massaging action and the reading lamp may be incorporated in an armrest.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2001
    Publication date: December 20, 2001
    Inventors: Steven Schwartz, David Harris
  • Publication number: 20010036071
    Abstract: A portable lighting apparatus comprises a storage case section, and a lid section connected to the storage case section such that the lid section can be opened and closed, wherein the storage case section includes a power supply, a plurality of lighting units connected to the power supply, and a photographing stage; and the lid section includes a back screen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2001
    Publication date: November 1, 2001
    Inventor: Teruki Goto
  • Publication number: 20010036070
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a modular panel for wall fixing, capable of being assembled in a sequence and electrically connected with other manufactures of the same type, in order to decorate and light kitchen areas, especially in the space comprised between the wall cabinets and the counters of modular kitchen furniture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2000
    Publication date: November 1, 2001
    Applicant: COMPAGNUCCI - S.P.A.
    Inventor: Rossano Compagnucci
  • Patent number: 6283608
    Abstract: A display assembly having at least one shelf. The back edge of the shelf being permanently affixed to a light support member. The light support member extends above and below the shelf. The light support member is spaced away from a support surface to provide an air gap between the light support member and the support surface. A light is attached to the light support member such that it is positioned within the air gap. Thereby the light provides backlighting. The light may be attached to the light support member by way of a bracket. The bracket can be positioned by way of mounting straps. The bracket may be J shaped, U shaped, rectangular shaped or any other suitable shape for producing substantially bidirectional light. The shelf can be either fixed or removable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Inventor: Patricia Ann Straat
  • Patent number: 6276810
    Abstract: Disclosed is a lamp for a display stand or a rack, to be secured to a shelf and designed as an adaptable lamp to be removably hung at the shelving edge (3) and to project light beams (LS) on the shelf front face and the lower part of the display rack (3). The inventive adaptable lamp resembles a light channel to be fitted into a U-shaped moulding in the rack front face (3) in such a way that it occupies the whole width of the light channel, in which both the lamp casing and the lamp itself, preferably a set of fluorescent lamps, are incorporated. The light channel (LK) profile (7) is designed so that the channel can house the lamp casing in a fixed position (5), and that the front and lower profile area (8, 9) can let the light beams (LS) through.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2001
    Assignee: decor metall GmbH + Co. KG
    Inventor: Udo Vosshenrich
  • Publication number: 20010014018
    Abstract: A furniture unit has a plurality of mutually delimited furniture compartments, which in particular are designed as display cabinets. At least one lighting member (21) can be installed as required in each furniture compartment. Rod elements (17.1 to 17.8) of a predetermined length are provided to carry the electrical current and are affixed within the furniture unit. Furthermore, mountings are provided whereby the rod elements (17.1 to 17.8) can each be completely retained within a furniture compartment. Connection elements (19.1 to 19.4) provide an electrical connection between rod elements of different furniture compartments. The connection elements (19.1 to 19.4) are designed as flexible conductors in some regions and may be 1:n branches (n=2, 3, etc.). The mountings are so arranged and designed that the rod elements are essentially fixed at both ends, it being possible for the connection elements to be connected at any time, as necessary, to the ends of the rod elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2000
    Publication date: August 16, 2001
    Inventors: Alexander Schaerer, Stephan Kuenzi, Fritz Fluehmann
  • Patent number: 6270232
    Abstract: A display lighting system is provided that assembles and installs easily and provides a wireway for luminaire and other types of wiring. Luminaires of the system each include a lamp housing attached to the ends of a pair of arms that can hold the housing sufficiently out beyond a displayed object to provide more complete illumination of the object's vertical face. Each luminaire includes a wireway enclosure dimensioned to enclose electrical wiring and at least one electrical component, such as a ballast or transformer. The enclosure is positioned between the arms at the ends opposite the lamp housing. Wiring between the lamp housing and enclosure is carried inconspicuously in a trough along the inside of one or both arms. Wiring between adjacent luminaires runs conveniently through nipple connectors connecting adjacent enclosures. Optional uplighting and accent lighting is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Assignee: Sylvan R. Shemitz Designs, Inc.
    Inventors: Sylvan R. Shemitz, Paul R. Ford
  • Patent number: 6234812
    Abstract: Retractable power and communication outlet arrangements suitable for mounting on a work surface such as a table or desk. A first type of a retractable power outlet or a retractable communication includes a bottomless mounting cup for inserting into a hole in the work surface. The mounting cup includes a flat circular top edge and a cylinder. Two grooves are formed inside the cylinder as guides and extend from an upper end of the cylinder to a lower end of the cylinder. The first type of power or communication outlet arrangement additionally includes a mounting bracket. The mounting bracket includes a circular flat top having two opposing semicircular notches. The mounting bracket's flat top is dimensioned to overlap the diameter of the top of the mounting cup. Integrally formed with the mounting bracket's flat top is a longitudinally extending flat element which includes four mounting pegs that extend from the flat element in two rows of two for mounting a power or communication strip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2001
    Inventors: Michael B. Ivers, Christian K. Weber