Nonelectric Patents (Class 362/159)
  • Patent number: 11927031
    Abstract: A portable electronic lock has a lock body having a locking device and a closing hoop that is movable relative to the lock body between a closed position and an open position, wherein the closing hoop can be locked to the lock body by means of the locking device in the closed position. The lock at least has an electrical unit, an electrical energy source, a signal generator, and a control unit. The control unit is configured to monitor a charge level of the electrical energy source and to control the signal generator to output a charge level warning signal sequence in the form of the letter sequence “S-O-S” in accordance with Morse code if the charge level of the electrical energy source falls below a predetermined limit value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2024
    Assignee: ABUS August Bremicker Söhne KG
    Inventors: Manuel Cornelius Neveling, Tobias Weiss
  • Patent number: 10556696
    Abstract: In some implementations, in an emergency in the vehicle, an emergency evacuation path is illuminated using the light emitted from the emergency evacuation rope where at least a portion of the emergency evacuation path extends to a location outside the vehicle. Egress of occupants along the emergency evacuation path is enabled using an emergency evacuation rope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2020
    Assignee: TEXTRON INNOVATIONS INC.
    Inventors: Daniel Frank Devitt, Michael Reaugh Smith
  • Patent number: 10440204
    Abstract: An image reading apparatus includes: a paper path; an image reader which reads a side of the sheet conveyed along the paper path in a reading position; a sheet support member located opposite to the image reader to support a rear surface opposite to a surface to be read of the sheet; a spectrophotometer which colorimetrically measures color of an image formed on the sheet; and an image reading housing which accommodates the image reader and the spectrophotometer. The image reader includes: a reading housing; and a drawer guide provided in the reading housing such that it can be drawn from the image reading housing, and maintains the distance between a light transmitting member housed in the reading housing and the sheet support member to be greater than a reading distance lower limit. The drawer guide transfers heat to the outside of the reading housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2019
    Assignee: KONICA MINOLTA, INC.
    Inventor: Kenji Kawatsu
  • Patent number: 9689543
    Abstract: A novelty lamp, which includes a transparent or translucent container with a top surface and a bottom surface. The bottom surface of the container is mounted in a base member. Two substances are received in the container, one of which is ferro fluid. The ferro fluid has a higher relative density at room temperature and is immiscible with the other substance. Upon application of heat, which is supplied by a light bulb mounted within the base member, globules of the substance with the initially higher relative density become less dense, rise in the other substance and flow around the container. As the globules rise toward the top surface of the container they cool, become denser and drop back down toward the bottom surface of the container. Because the ferro fluid is a magnetic liquid, magnets can manipulate it, while it changes density and flows in the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Inventor: Kyle Haines
  • Patent number: 9595812
    Abstract: A crossed nanobeam structure for strain engineering in semiconductor devices is provided. For example, such a structure can be used for a low-threshold germanium laser. While the photonic crystal nanobeam enables light confinement in a subwavelength volume with small optical loss, another crossing nanobeam induces high tensile strain in the small region where the optical mode is tightly confined. As maintaining a small optical loss and a high tensile strain reduces the required pumping for achieving net optical gain beyond cavity losses, this technique can be used to develop an extremely low-threshold Ge laser source. Moreover, the structure can be easily integrated into electronic and photonic circuits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2017
    Assignee: The Board of Trustees of the Leland Stanford Junior University
    Inventors: Donguk Nam, Jan A. Petykiewicz, Devanand S. Sukhdeo, Shashank Gupta, Jelena Vuckovic, Krishna C. Saraswat
  • Patent number: 8727555
    Abstract: A lawn or patio umbrella with an integral lighting system that utilizes cold cathode ray tubes, light emitting diodes (LED's), or florescent lights, to provide relatively bright outdoor light for reading and other activities that require relatively high light intensities is provided. In one embodiment, a modular, electrically powered lawn or patio umbrella in which lighting systems, such as those utilizing cold cathode tubes, LED's, or florescent lights; cooling systems, such as those utilizing electric fans or misting systems; and motorized retraction systems; can be selectively interchanged is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: World Factory, Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory G. Kuelbs
  • Patent number: 8684553
    Abstract: A solar powered lighting fixture having a multi-paneled solar array that maximizes the generation of solar energy during the course of a day. The outdoor lighting fixture of the present invention includes a multi-paneled solar array housing positioned on an extension rod that includes a plurality of solar panels arranged in a slanted configuration about the periphery of the housing unit. The housing unit is positioned on the extension rod so as to be elevated above the ground but below the actual light fixture. Employing a housing unit separate from the light fixture permits a greater variety of shapes to be used for the light fixture. Moreover, it allows the individual solar panels to be positioned at an optimal angle for maximizing exposure to solar radiation. Each of the solar panels is independent of the others, charging the battery separately so as not interfere with the other solar panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: International Development LLC
    Inventor: Chi Gon Chen
  • Patent number: 8360589
    Abstract: A sealed, chemiluminescent novelty device includes a housing having side walls and a bottom wall to define a housing and a lid sealable to the housing. The lid has a flexible membrane with a depending plunger. A sealed charge having side walls and a top wall with a flexible membrane, is positioned in the housing. The charge has an activation post aligned with the membrane. A sealed, frangible ampoule is disposed in the charge. A first chemical is disposed in the charge, outside of the ampoule and a second chemical is disposed in the ampoule. Pressure applied to the housing lid urges contact with the charge top wall to urge the top wall to move the activation post into contact with the ampoule to break the ampoule allowing the first and second chemicals to mix.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Omniglow LLC
    Inventor: John M. Friedson
  • Patent number: 8246191
    Abstract: A wind-driven light-emitting device comprises a housing, a first shaft sleeving member, a second shaft sleeving member and a plurality of blades. The blades are coupled to a first shaft. The first shaft has a first speed-change gear driving a second speed-change gear of a rotating second shaft. The second shaft has a magnetic element. The second shaft sleeving member has a coil connected with a circuit. The circuit is connected to a plurality of light-emitting (or light-guiding) elements arranged on the blades. When the device is windward, wind propels the blades to rotate. Thus, the magnetic element of the second shaft is rotated to induce voltage on the coil. The circuit rectifies, boosts, stabilizes and regulates the power to drive the light-emitting (or light-guiding) elements. Thereby, the present invention provides a decorative lighting effect without using any external electric power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Inventor: Sun-Yuan Hu
  • Patent number: 8089370
    Abstract: An illuminated wind indicator including a wind chime assembly with a moveable pendulum assembly. The pendulum assembly includes a suspension member to support moveable suspension of the pendulum assembly proximate the wind chime assembly and further includes a component configuration of components including power and control circuitry, at least one solar panel, at least one light source and a striker, wherein each of the components has a distance relationship to the suspension member, where the power and control circuitry, the at least one solar panel and the at least one light source is electrically connected to form an illumination circuit that is separate and spaced apart from the wind chime assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Inventor: Simon Nicholas Richmond
  • Patent number: 8077052
    Abstract: An illuminated wind indicator that provides visual indication of wind motion even at night. One or more chime members and a pendulum assembly are suspended from a support of housing, and arranged so that the chime members and the pendulum assembly may more relative to each other. In addition, a light source is situated such that a portion of the pendulum emits light. The light source is powered by a solar cell and a rechargeable battery. A light source may be used to detect ambient light and switch the battery from accumulating charge to powering the light source. The light source may include a luminescent material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Inventor: Simon Nicholas Richmond
  • Patent number: 8043847
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for providing light, which can be used to promote growth of biological material. The light includes a ceramic core, including a catalyst and a containment vessel. Light forms as fuel is ignited within the containment vessel. Use of the ceramic core increases the efficiency of the light are reduces undesired gas emissions from the light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignee: Arizona Public Service Company
    Inventors: Ray Hobbs, David Haberman
  • Publication number: 20110249428
    Abstract: The invention relates to a sighting device, containing an elongate light source (11) and an elongate body (15) made from a material which conducts light and/or collects light. The light source (11) and body (15) are disposed coaxially. A user looking into the device in the viewing direction (3) sees at least one luminous mark under all light conditions. In weak or failing ambient light, at least the light source (11) appears as a luminous dot and in strong ambient light, the face of the body (15) directed towards the user radiates collected light. In the transition range between weak and strong ambient light, both the light source (11) and the luminous face of the body (15) are visible to the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2009
    Publication date: October 13, 2011
    Applicant: MB-Microtec AG
    Inventor: Markus Profos
  • Publication number: 20100290217
    Abstract: Strain modulated nanostructures for optoelectronic devices and associated systems and methods are disclosed. A semiconductor laser in accordance with one embodiment of the disclosure, for example, comprises an active region having a nanowire structure formed from a semiconductor material. The nanowire structure of the semiconductor material has a bandgap that is indirect in a first strain state. The laser further includes a straining unit coupled to the active region. The straining unit is configured to modulate the nanowire structure such that the nanowire structure reaches a second strain state in which the bandgap becomes direct or substantially direct and, in operation, emits photons upon electron-hole recombination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2010
    Publication date: November 18, 2010
    Inventors: Manjeri P. Anantram, Daryoush Shiri
  • Patent number: 7798808
    Abstract: An upwardly extending sectional candle is provided. The candle includes adjacent upper and lower wax sections stacked vertically relative to each other, each wax section having a thickness. The candle also includes a spacer formed from a non-flammable material. The spacer has a first surface, a second surface, and a thickness, wherein the first and second surfaces have a non-flat shape. The spacer contacts the upper wax section at the first surface and the lower wax section at the second surface. Each adjacent upper and lower wax section has a wick embedded in, and extending vertically through each wax section. The adjacent upper and lower wax sections are configured to be separated into individual wax sections at the spacer, thus exposing a like-new clean wax surface of the at least one of the upper and lower individual wax sections after the candle is separated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Inventor: Robert Bruce Kleve
  • Patent number: 7658608
    Abstract: An application for a method of making a candle includes providing a candle core and adding a base layer of wax to the candle core. Next, an image area is cut out of the base layer large enough to contain an image and the base layer is peeled away from the candle core in the image area. An adhesion layer of wax is added to the candle core. An image is installed in the image area. A clear layer of wax is added to the candle core, also covering the image. An outer layer of wax is added to the candle core, also covering the image area then the image area is cut out of the outer layer and the outer layer is peeled away from the candle core in the image area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Inventor: Nicolas A. Weathersbee
  • Publication number: 20090268437
    Abstract: An illumination device that can simultaneously supply visible light, heat, and electricity, or visible light and heat, or visible light and electricity. A reflector plate, which has properties of reflecting visible rays and transmitting or absorbing heat rays, and a translucent panel, which has properties of transmitting visible rays and reflecting heat rays, efficiently split combustion light generated by high-brightness catalytic combustion fueled with combustible gaseous substance such as city gas, and a thermoelectric element converts heat into electricity. Thereby, effective energy use is realized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2006
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventor: Toshihiko Mabuchi
  • Publication number: 20090207596
    Abstract: An illuminated wind indicator that provides visual indication of wind motion even at night. One or more chime members and a pendulum assembly are suspended from a support of housing, and arranged so that the chime members and the pendulum assembly may more relative to each other. In addition, a light source is situated such that a portion of the pendulum emits light. The light source is powered by a solar cell and a rechargeable battery. A light source may be used to detect ambient light and switch the battery from accumulating charge to powering the light source. The light source may include a luminescent material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 2, 2008
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Inventor: Simon Nicholas Richmond
  • Patent number: 7226182
    Abstract: A lighting block using solar cells. A case covers an outer surface of the lighting block and includes a light transmission section, light being emitted and received through the light transmission section. A light emitting assembly is mounted within the case next to an inner surface of the light transmission. The light emitting assembly allows the transmission of sunlight therethrough. A solar cell assembly is mounted within the case next to the light emitting assembly. The solar cell assembly receives sunlight passing through the light transmission section and the light emitting assembly, and generates electric power. A capacitor is installed within the case and stores the electric power generated by the solar cell assembly. A controller installed within the case controls the supply of the stored electric power to the light emitting assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Assignee: Samsung SDI Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Dae-Won Kim
  • Patent number: 7186000
    Abstract: Improved method and apparatus for hand-held portable LED illumination. The illumination source includes a plurality of LEDs, and an electrical circuit that selectively applies power from the DC voltage source to the LED units, wherein the illumination source is suitable for handheld portable operation. In some embodiments, the electrical circuit further includes a control circuit for changing a proportion of light output having the first characteristic color spectrum output to that having the second characteristic color spectrum output, and that drives the LEDs with electrical pulses at a frequency high enough that light produced has an appearance to a human user of being continuous rather than pulsed. Still another aspect provides an illumination source including a housing including one or more LEDs; and a control circuit that selectively applies power from a source of electric power to the LEDs, thus controlling a light output color spectrum of the LEDs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Inventors: Gary A. Lebens, Charles T. Bourn, Charles A. Lemaire
  • Patent number: 7125145
    Abstract: Multi-purpose equipment 10 is disclosed having a modular housing 12, a multi-function module 14 for containing electronic or mechanical devices, a tool pod 16 having multiple tools 106 pivotally attached thereto, an accessory compartment 18 for removably containing, for example, a disposable lighter 32. Module 14 is preferably removable and is adapted contain an electronic or mechanical device, such as a mechanical compass 172, an electronic compass 215, or other electronic devices. Tool pod 16 includes a plurality of pivotally attached tools 106. A lanyard 34 may also be provided to tether module 14 to housing 12.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Assignee: Taylor Cutlery LLC
    Inventors: Walter A. Gardiner, Joseph A. Hufnagel, James O. Quinn, Peter F. Lynch, Scott W. Osiecki, Robert S. Englert, Nicholas P. Hayduke
  • Patent number: 7104669
    Abstract: Apparatus for a decorative ornamental structure for canned fuels 30, including solid and liquid fuels that is provided in a plurality of sizes. The decorative ornamental structure is composed of spaced apart sconce-like elements 14, 16 having a backing 20 positioned therebetween. The sconce-like elements 14, 16 can be formed in shapes comprising curved surfaces, such as a quarter sphere or polygonal surfaces, such as triangular, quadrilateral or trapezoidal shaped and can be provided in various colors. The sconce-like element 14, 16 cavities face each other with a planar back plate 20 forming an integral part therewith, whereby the decorative ornamental structure can be wall 12 mounted. The base sconce-like element 16 forms the container for the canned fuel 30 and is of such dimension as to receive additional decorative articles 24, such as stones giving the appearance of flames emanating from a rock bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Inventor: Olga Mogilevsky Piankov
  • Patent number: 6860625
    Abstract: A reflective fishing-light-and-heater bracket has a base plate (1) that is designedly rectangular and made to rest on a gunwale of a boat for supporting a gas light (4) and a reflector (5). The base plate includes a gunwale attachment on an attachment end, a light attachment on an attachment end and the reflector on top of the attachment end. The gunwale attachment is adaptable for attachment to all foreseeable gunwales, docks and piers. The base plate includes leg-rod apertures (13) that receive leg rods (14) for being positioned on surfaces (15) or that receive lines for being hung from a hanger. The light attachment includes a cannister basket (12) and a light holder. The reflector includes back-light apertures (38) for selective back lighting. The base plate can be positioned for facing the reflector outwardly or inwardly at variable angles from a boat, pier, a marine structure (21) or water-side surface (15).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Inventor: Steven M. Bronchak
  • Patent number: 6846091
    Abstract: A lantern having a compact configuration. The lantern has a generally cylindrical shape with a lower housing containing a fuel tank, a shut-off valve and a regulator. A cap at the base of the lower housing can be removed, providing access to the fuel tank. The fuel tank is refillable via a fuel fill valve arranged at the base of the tank. A burner tube is coupled to the regulator and extends upwards beyond the housing. A mantle, which when lit provides illumination, is removably coupled to the upper end of the burner tube. A generally conical reflector is arranged around the burner tube below the mantle and above the regulator. A glass globe is arranged around the burner tube/mantle assembly and a ventilator cap is arranged above the globe. The ventilator cap attaches to rails which extend up from opposite sides of the lower housing and can be readily removed to access the mantle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Assignee: The Coleman Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Norris Richard Long
  • Patent number: 6827474
    Abstract: A candle, lantern, or the like, having one or more light pipes. Reception faces of the light pipes gather light from the flame arena, and emission faces of the light pipes emit the gathered light at another location. The other location may be an exterior surface of the candle, or a decorative fixture. Multiple sets of light pipes may come into play at various times during the life of the candle. The reception faces may move as the candle burns, to stay in the flame arena.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Inventor: Edward Owen Clapper
  • Patent number: 6808287
    Abstract: Improved method and apparatus for hand-held portable illumination. A flashlight and corresponding method are described. The flashlight includes a housing, a plurality of LEDs, and an electrical circuit that selectively applies power from the DC voltage source to the LED units, wherein the flashlight is suitable for handheld portable operation by a user. In one embodiment, the first electrical circuit further includes a control circuit for maintaining a predetermined light output level of the LED units as a charge on a battery varies. In another embodiment, the control circuit maintains an average predetermined light output level of the LED units as the charge on the battery cell varies by changing a pulse width or frequency as the charge on the battery cell varies to maintain a given average light output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2004
    Assignee: PPT Vision, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary A. Lebens, Charles T. Bourn, Charles A. Lemaire
  • Patent number: 6784357
    Abstract: A solar energy-operated street-lamp device is disclosed. The solar energy-operated street-lamp device is characterized in that the solar energy-operated device includes a solar energy-operated absorption board, a circuit board and a storage battery that is mounted within a post seat of the lamp-post. The power stored in the storage battery will be delivered to an LED via circuit board to provide illumination. The solar energy absorption board and the transparent protective hood are of arc-shape so that the sunlight can be converged onto the solar energy absorption board and at the same time, dust particles and birds' excrement or fallen leaves will not be collected on the surface of the hood surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Inventor: Chao Hsiang Wang
  • Patent number: 6764197
    Abstract: An ornamental spotlight essentially comprised of a cylindrical protective housing with a light source assembly mounted at one end and a removable cap, for inserting rechargeable batteries in the hollow cylinder, located at the other end. The light source has a lamp, a reflector for collecting and reflecting a maximum amount light from the lamp, and a projection type lens for projecting a spot of light on to the display. Either dc or ac powered lamps can be used in the spotlight. Zoom capability can be added for adjusting the size of the spot on to the display. Rechargeable batteries are used to supply power to the spotlight at nighttime with a solar panel and battery charger being used to charge the batteries during the daytime. A light-sensor switch or timer circuit is wired into the power line to automatically turn the spotlight on at dusk and off in the daybreak.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventor: Raymond A. Zemar
  • Publication number: 20040105256
    Abstract: A device powered by solar or wind energy that produces multicolored lighting effects by virtue rotation or movement caused by air currents or the wind. Solar cells or a electromechanical generator produce electrical energy that stored through a control circuit for use at nighttime to power a number of light emitters. Air currents induce movement of the light emitters, or movement of the entire energy storage system, with the resulting visual effect of intermixing and changing colors as the rotation or movement varies in response to the force of the air currents.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2003
    Publication date: June 3, 2004
    Inventor: Timothy R. Jones
  • Patent number: 6686534
    Abstract: The present invention provides a small-scaled portable electrical power generator comprising a base, which includes an assembly surface, a fuel chamber, and at least one fuel delivery channels connected to the fuel chamber and placed under the assembly surface; a power generation means which includes at least one solar battery packs placed on the assembly surface of the base, a solar battery pack contains two opposing solar batteries which face each other with their light-collecting surfaces and their power outputs being connected; a light generation means placed on the assembly surface of the base, which includes at least one hollow tube that is placed in-between the solar batteries of the solar battery packs and includes at least one hollow tube capable of capillarity that is connected to the at least one fuel delivery channels so that fuel can always be filled into them; and an igniting means which includes at least one operative igniters placed nearby the at least one hollow tubes, and can be manipulated
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Inventor: I-Ming Chen
  • Publication number: 20040008509
    Abstract: An oil lamp for providing a unique flame formation usable in a variety of decorative applications. The lamp includes a body that has an open upper end and that defines a chamber for carrying a combustible liquid. The lamp further includes a planar wick having a lower end located in the chamber of the body, for contacting the combustible liquid, and an upper end projecting upwardly from the open upper end. The wick may be positioned between first and second plates arranged in a spaced, confronting relationship to enhance capillary action or may be wrapped about a rigid plate. When lit, the lamp provides a unique flame formation. Optionally, the lamp may include scented oil and a conductive element to promote the release of fragrance upon heating, and the wick can be configured free of material having a high heat conductivity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2002
    Publication date: January 15, 2004
    Inventors: DayNa Decker, Steven Dodson
  • Patent number: 6663258
    Abstract: This invention relates to a portable illumination device (1) for the production of light effects, with a carrier (3) and a light-emitting device (2) operated with an open flame and connectable to this carrier. Carrier (3) comprises a handle (4) essentially designed as a hollow cylinder, which carries a shield-type flame protector (5) at one end. The light-emitting device is a gas lighter (2) arranged inside handle (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Inventor: Hartmut Kanter
  • Publication number: 20030223241
    Abstract: A reflective fishing-light-and-heater bracket has a base plate (1) that is designedly rectangular and made to rest on a gunwale of a boat for supporting a gas light (4) and a reflector (5). The base plate includes a gunwale attachment on an attachment end, a light attachment on an attachment end and the reflector on top of the attachment end. The gunwale attachment is adaptable for attachment to all foreseeable gunwales, docks and piers. The base plate includes leg-rod apertures (13) that receive leg rods (14) for being positioned on surfaces (15) or that receive lines for being hung from a hanger. The light attachment includes a cannister basket (12) and a light holder. The reflector includes back-light apertures (38) for selective back lighting. The base plate can be positioned for facing the reflector outwardly or inwardly at variable angles from a boat, pier, a marine structure (21) or water-side surface (15).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Steven M. Bronchak
  • Publication number: 20020176248
    Abstract: Solar lamp for outdoor use, in particular a garden lamp, road or street lamp or such, consisting of one or more solar module, and a housing with a storage means for electric energy (battery), which is electrically connected to the solar module, and one or more luminous body, whereby between the battery and the luminous body a circuit is provided, which reacts to signals from a light sensor attached to the solar lamp, and which enables or disables the electrical connection between the battery and the luminous body depending on the degree of brightness/darkness, whereby the housing is provided with two or more walls of different orientation which do not converge parallel to each other, and whereby one or more solar modules are arranged on each wall, or that the walls are formed by solar modules.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2002
    Publication date: November 28, 2002
    Inventors: Wolfgang Wismeth, Gerhard Lutz, Werner Kohlmann
  • Patent number: 6447144
    Abstract: A spark generating lighting mechanism includes a quantity of spark material; a grinding wheel; a spark material retaining structure secured relative to the grinding wheel and containing the spark material; a biasing mechanism for biasing the spark material against grinding wheel; a grinding wheel rotation mechanism drivably connected to the grinding wheel; and a translucent spark shield secured relative to the grinding wheel for deflecting and containing within the mechanism burning particles of the spark material causing sparks while passing rays of light out of the mechanism. A flashlight embodiment and a lighted shoe embodiment containing the mechanism are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Inventor: John G. Maxim
  • Publication number: 20020069814
    Abstract: A self powered spherical marker is mounted on a power line by extending the line though opposite openings in the marker. There are two sets of opposite openings to allow the marker to be oriented so that solar cells mounted on the exterior of the marker face a southernly direction. A battery inside the marker is maintained in a charged condition by the solar cells and power led lights that flash intermittently so as to draw attention to the marker. Two halves of the marker are secured together by pin-latch fasteners that are placed around shoulders extending around the periphery of the marker.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2000
    Publication date: June 13, 2002
    Inventor: Robert Hawk
  • Patent number: 6347879
    Abstract: A votive cap converter kit for converting a votive candle cup into an oil burning candle. The votive cap converter kit includes an elongate tubular sheath with a wick extending through the sheath such that an upper end of the wick outwardly extends from a top end of the sheath and a lower end of the wick outwardly extends from a bottom end of the sheath. A support plate is also included with a wick hole therethrough through which the sheath may be inserted. The support plate is designed for insertion into a container has lamp oil fluid therein such that the bottom end of the sheath is submerged in the lamp oil fluid and the support plate and the top end of the sheath are positioned in the container above the lamp oil fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Inventor: Heidi A. Prado
  • Patent number: 6257734
    Abstract: A flashlight apparatus includes a quantity of tritium within a transparent capsule for emitting light independently of any power source for helping a person locate the apparatus in the absence of substantial external light. The tritium glows in the dark for many years without any external power source. The apparatus also includes the conventional elements of a power source, a primary light source, a power circuit for electrical communication between the power source and the primary light source, a switch, and a housing containing the power source, the primary light source. The light source is preferably a light emitting diode, and may alternatively be an incandescent bulb. The light emitting diode is preferably a high intensity, low power consuming light emitting diode. The transparent capsule includes a vial containing the tritium, which capsule provides a virtually unbreakable enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Inventor: Joseph Tchira
  • Patent number: 6231218
    Abstract: An apparatus for connecting a lantern and a fuel source for a lantern to a boat for attracting fish to the boat, the apparatus including an elongated pipe for conveying fuel from a fuel reservoir to a fuel-burning lantern, the elongated pipe having a first end and a second end, first end of pipe being adapted to receive a lantern, the second end of the elongated pipe being adapted to receive fuel from a fuel reservoir, and a pipe holder connected to boat for holding the elongated pipe and lantern, the pipe holder being adapted to position the lantern at a distance away from the side of the boat over the water in which the boat may be floating to attract fish to the area beneath said lantern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2001
    Inventor: Lee O. Esprit
  • Patent number: 6227845
    Abstract: A torch holder includes a supporting portion, a receiving portion and a engaging portion. The supporting portion includes an L-shaped upper portion and a lower portion with one end connected to the upper portion and the other end inserted into the ground. The engaging portion is also an L-shape and so positioned that both L-shaped structures are in the same plane to keep the holder from rotating and fixed in the vertical position. The receiving portion is mounted on the upper portion of the supporting portion, which includes a cylindrical holding portion mounted on the supporting portion with a screw or the like for securing the torch in a cylindrical holding portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventors: Thomas M. Pillow, Richard F. Pillow
  • Patent number: 6176596
    Abstract: A combination flashlight and electrical power source assembly includes an emitter and fuel system module, a fuel cartridge module fixed to the emitter and fuel system module, a photovoltaic conversion module attachable to a selected one of the emitter and fuel system module and the fuel cartridge module, and a flashlight lens module attachable to the other of the emitter and fuel system module and the fuel cartridge module. When the photovoltaic conversion module is attached to the emitter and fuel system module and the flashlight lens module is attached to the fuel cartridge module, the photovoltaic conversion module is active, the flashlight lens module functions as an end cap, and the assembly functions as an electrical power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2001
    Assignee: Thermo Power Corporation
    Inventors: Kailash C. Shukla, Edward F. Doyle, Frederick E. Becker, Ann S. Buck, Andrew E. Masters, Maurice Nunes
  • Patent number: 6161949
    Abstract: A replica flame for simulating a flame on a wick extending from a top of a candle positioned in a candlestick. The replica flame includes a three-dimensional flame body and a rigid pin connected to extend from a base side of the three-dimensional flame body. The rigid pin includes a pointed end opposite the connection with the three-dimensional flame body, the rigid pin being able to pierce the top of the candle for releasably connecting the three-dimensional flame body to the top end of the candle at the wick. When releasably secured to the top of the candle, the replica flame creates an illusion of a flame burning on the wick of the candle thereby producing the appearance that the candle is lit. The three-dimensional flame body may include a vertical groove on one side thereof for receiving the wick of the candle and is preferably a pear shaped member having realistic colors of a natural flame duplicated thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Inventor: Jac Nolan Johnson
  • Patent number: 6095661
    Abstract: Improved method and apparatus for hand-held portable illumination. A flashlight and corresponding method are described. The flashlight includes a housing, a plurality of LEDs, and an electrical circuit that selectively applies power from the DC voltage source to the LED units, wherein the flashlight is suitable for handheld portable operation by a user. In one embodiment, the first electrical circuit further includes a control circuit for maintaining a predetermined light output level of the LED units as a charge on a battery varies. In another embodiment, the control circuit maintains an average predetermined light output level of the LED units as the charge on the battery cell varies by changing a pulse width or frequency as the charge on the battery cell varies to maintain a given average light output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Assignee: PPT Vision, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary A. Lebens, Charles T. Bourn, Charles A. Lemaire
  • Patent number: 6092912
    Abstract: Portable, small, and light-weight radiant and/or electrical power generating sources, constructed according to the principles of this invention, comprise an air/fuel delivery device that houses a fuel canister of pressurized hydrocarbon fuel therein. The fuel canister includes a check valve that is selectively activated to release the pressurized hydrocarbon fuel to a pressure regulator and then through a venturi disposed within the delivery device. The delivery device includes an ignitor that is also activated when the fuel is released. A radiant head is attached to the delivery device and includes a luminous mantle in gas flow communication with the venturi and formed from a fibrous rare earth oxide. The head includes a lens and reflector system adjacent the mantle. Alternatively, or in addition to the radiant head, a thermophotovoltaic head can be attached to the delivery system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2000
    Assignee: Quantum Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert E. Nelson
  • Patent number: 6042366
    Abstract: A lantern includes a housing, a fuel inlet, and a flame guard surrounding the region in which the fuel is burned. A shield is hingedly connected to the housing to allow movement between a closed position in which the shield protects the flame guard and blocks access to the fuel inlet, and an open position. The shield may be made of two parts, and a crenulated bail may be used to hang the lantern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Assignee: The Coleman Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Norris R. Long, Randall L. May, Thomas Mark Benton, Scott Wayne Luty, Robert J. Gross, Paul King, Mike Joss
  • Patent number: 6039464
    Abstract: An apparatus for connecting a lantern and a fuel source for a lantern to a boat for attracting fish to the boat, the apparatus including an elongated pipe for conveying fuel from a fuel reservoir to a fuel-burning lantern, the elongated pipe having a first end and a second end, first end of pipe being adapted to receive a lantern, the second end of the elongated pipe being adapted to receive fuel from a fuel reservoir, and a pipe holder connected to boat for holding the elongated pipe and lantern, the pipe holder being adapted to position the lantern at a distance away from the side of the boat over the water in which the boat may be floating to attract fish to the area beneath said lantern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Inventor: Lee O. Esprit
  • Patent number: 5989016
    Abstract: A photographic flash lamp having an envelope defining a chamber, at least a portion of the envelope being transparent. A support mesh is positioned within the chamber and has a first portion out of contact with the remainder of the lamp. Suitable combustible material to produce the flash, is adhered to the first portion of the mesh to generate a flash upon ignition. An ignitor ignites the combustible material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventor: Warren Green
  • Patent number: 5673988
    Abstract: A chemical luminescence apparatus comprises a tube container, having an open top, which contains a first chemical luminous liquid and an ampul which in turn contains a second chemical luminous liquid, chemically reactive with the first chemical luminous liquid for producing a luminescent reaction product, wherein the open top of the tube container is hermetically sealed by a cap at a lower portion of such cap. At the upper surface of the cap is formed a groove to which upstanding walls of a mount member, a stand member, or a coupler are detachably mounted, thereby enabling not only wide range uses of the apparatus, but also enabling maintenance operation, such as exchange of parts, to be easily performed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 7, 1997
    Assignee: Nihon Kagaku Hakko K.K.
    Inventor: Masahiko Fujita
  • Patent number: 5671997
    Abstract: A tamper-resistant fixture encloses a self-luminous radioactive light in order to prevent removal of the light. The fixture is secured to a mounting surface using tamper-resistant screws and anchors and allows the light to illuminate the immediate surroundings to mark an exit route without the necessity of power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 30, 1997
    Inventor: J. Barry Potts
  • Patent number: 5430622
    Abstract: A light emitting torch comprises a transparent tube. The tube defines a space by the inner wall and an opening thereof. A partition is removably attached to the inner wall of the tube and defines a first chamber and a second chamber therein. A first and a second chemical substance are loaded into the first and the second chambers. A cap is attached to the opening of the tube to seal the chemical substance therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 4, 1995
    Inventor: Ming-Shish Kuo