Plural, Relatively Movable Patents (Class 362/283)
  • Patent number: 8025430
    Abstract: A lighting device comprising a plurality of overlapping leaves hingedly attached to a base that can be manipulated to control the size of an opening through which light from a light source passes, and thereby the size and intensity of the light. In some embodiments the device includes an off-center lighting source whereby a light beam is emitted at an angle to an axis passing through the center of the opening formed by the leaves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Inventors: Avner Ben Natan, Yael Erel
  • Patent number: 8011807
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for enabling transmission of substantially equal amounts of energy from at least one light source (LS) comprising intensity variations in time to at least two light sensitive points (LSP), said transmission being controlled by means of at least one illumination arrangement (1), and said method comprising establishment of a correlation between said intensity variations and at least one feature of said illumination arrangement. The invention furthermore relates to an illumination arrangement (1) for controlling transmission of energy to at least two light sensitive points (LSP), wherein said controlling transmission enables transmission of substantially equal amounts of energy to each of said at least two light sensitive points (LSP).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: Sign-Tronic AG
    Inventors: Niels Borgbjerg Sejersen, Niels Holm Larsen, Henrik Glent-Madsen
  • Patent number: 8002435
    Abstract: A mounting surface for mounting a plurality of LEDs has a plurality of orientable lenses each individually affixed about a single LED. Each orientable lens has a primary reflector and a refracting lens that direct light emitted from a single LED to a reflective surface of the orientable lens that reflects the light off a primary LED light output axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Philips Electronics LTD Philips Electronique LTEE
    Inventor: Jean-Francois Laporte
  • Patent number: 7963683
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a lighting device that includes an array of LEDs arranged on a circuit board with a reflector that rotates relative to the LEDs to reflect the light in various directions. The reflector according to the present disclosure includes a compact construction that allows for effective light reflection. A related lighting system and method is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: Federal Signal Corporation
    Inventors: Robert A. Czajkowski, Myron F. Pavlacka, Jacek J. Jozwik, Charles P. Meyer
  • Patent number: 7959326
    Abstract: A mounting surface for mounting a plurality of LEDs has a plurality of orientable lenses each individually affixed about a single LED. Each orientable lens may have a primary reflector and a refracting lens that direct light emitted from a single LED to a reflective surface of the orientable lens that reflects the light off a primary LED light output axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: Philips Electronics Ltd
    Inventor: Jean-Francois Laporte
  • Patent number: 7926992
    Abstract: A headlamp assembly for providing various beam patterns for a vehicle is provided, which includes a lamp shield driving device. The device comprises a first shield including at least one shield projection formed on a circumference thereof, a second shield to shield at least a part of beam irradiation in a close range, and a shield driving unit to drive the first shield and the second shield in a sequential order to thereby generate a certain beam pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignees: SL Seobong, SL Lighting
    Inventors: Jong-Un Kim, Chang-Hwan Oh
  • Patent number: 7896525
    Abstract: A dichroic mixing flag for a multiparameter light is constructed that greatly improves the thermal shock tolerance of the flag and avoids having to use a more costly substrate material. The dichroic color mixing flag may be substantially circular in shape. The dichroic color mixing flag may be fixed to a mechanical component so that the flag cannot rotate with respect to the mechanical component. The dichroic color mixing flag may be fixed to the mechanical component so that the mechanical component can move the dichroic color mixing flag without moving any other dichroic color mixing flag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Barco Lighting Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard S. Belliveau, Keith Dennis Cannon
  • Patent number: 7871183
    Abstract: A light source for an atomizing device, specifically an atom absorption spectrometer comprising one, two, or more lamps, whose ray can be selected by means of at least one two-dimensionally moveable optical selection element, and which can be directed in the direction of atomizing device. Fine-tuning is thereby achieved quickly with little constructive expenditure and with low costs. A very high degree of accuracy is possible from the selector through a rotational and highly adjustable rotation spindle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Assignee: PerkinElmer Singapore Pte. Ltd.
    Inventors: David H. Tracy, Bernhard H. Radziuk, Klaus Fischer
  • Patent number: 7862208
    Abstract: A dimming device for a searchlight for adjusting the brightness of a light field generated by a searchlight is provided. The dimming device comprising a plurality of different screening elements, which are formed and provided to partly or completely screen the light emitted by the searchlight. The screening elements are formed by different structured masks at least partly screening the light emitted by the searchlight, which include regularly arranged opaque or partly transparent regions and transparent regions. Means each are provided for incremental adjustment of the brightness of the generated light field of the searchlight either to bring the screening elements into the region of the light emitted by the searchlight, in order to reduce the brightness of the light field generated by one brightness level, or to remove the same from the region of the light emitted by the searchlight, in order to increase the brightness of the light field generated by one brightness level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Arnold & Richter Cine Technik GmbH & Co. Betriebs KG
    Inventor: Erwin Melzner
  • Patent number: 7832902
    Abstract: A dichroic color mixing flag for a multiparameter light is constructed that greatly improves the thermal shock tolerance of the flag and avoids having to use a more costly quartz substrate material. The dichroic color mixing flag may be substantially circular in shape. The dichroic color mixing flag may be fixed to a mechanical component so that the flag cannot rotate with respect to the mechanical component. The dichroic color mixing flag may be fixed to the mechanical component so that the mechanical component can move the dichroic color mixing flag without moving any other dichroic color mixing flag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Barco Lighting Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard S. Belliveau, Keith Dennis Cannon
  • Patent number: 7832907
    Abstract: A variety of lighting apparatuses are described that utilize reflection as a basis for lighting a desired area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Inventors: Irwin Kotovsky, Serge Cornelissen, Robert Cornelissen
  • Patent number: 7766509
    Abstract: A mounting surface for mounting a plurality of LEDs has a plurality of orientable lenses each individually affixed about a single LED. Each orientable lens has a primary reflector and a refracting lens that direct light emitted from a single LED to a reflective surface of the orientable lens that reflects the light off a primary LED light output axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Lumec Inc.
    Inventor: Jean-Francois Laporte
  • Patent number: 7758202
    Abstract: A step stool with positionable lights and a rechargeable battery is carried upon retractable casters for suitable positioning and utility. A motion and timer switch is interposed between the battery and the positionable lights to allow the positionable lights to be illuminated only for a fixed period of time following movement of the step stool. The lights may be positionable as by adjustable brackets or by a cord reel assembly. The step stool has contact bands thereabout that are adapted for engagement with contacts in a charging station that is specifically configured to receive the step stool. Receipt of the step stool by the charging station activates a battery charger that serves to charge the battery of the step stool thereafter. A solenoid switch disconnects the lights of the step stool upon commencement of the charging operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Inventor: John M. Krieger
  • Patent number: 7736022
    Abstract: For lighting equipment for illumination of theatre and show stages and platforms there is designed an equipment for change of rotary gobos comprising a carrier disc supporting interchangeable segments with the gobos. The individual segments (2) are attached at the carrier disc (1) by central holding means, each segment (2) being provided with means for setting the segment (2) on the carrier disc (1). Each segment (2) is provided with a lamella (3) for attachment by the magnetic holding means. The magnetic holding means comprise a magnet (24) in attracted to a ferrous plate (23) attached to the carrier disc (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Inventor: Pavel Jurik
  • Patent number: 7736023
    Abstract: A multiparameter lighting apparatus is disclosed that allows an operator of a central controller to remotely choose a first rotation of a selected gobo of the multiparameter lighting apparatus. The first rotation is typically a substantially smooth rotation. A second rotation can also be chosen, wherein the second rotation causes an animation of the selected gobo.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: BARCO Lightning Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard S. Belliveau, David K. Peck
  • Patent number: 7736037
    Abstract: A projector assembly having a light source and a reflector body positioned proximately to the light source for reflecting light forward along an axis of the projector assembly. Mounted to the reflector body is a lens. The lens is in front of and at a distance from the light source to focus the light into a beam pattern. An actuator is mounted to the reflector body and includes a pair of rotatable shafts extending from opposing ends along an axis that is perpendicular to and below the axis of the projector assembly. A light shield is mounted onto the rotatable shafts of the actuator and is rotatable between a first position, wherein substantially all of the light below the axis of the projector assembly is blocked, and a second position, wherein at least a portion of the light below the axis of the projector assembly is allowed to project forward through the lens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Libor Losak, Vladimir Dobrus, Jiri Kopenec
  • Patent number: 7712934
    Abstract: A vehicle headlamp. The headlamp comprises a light source and a reflector to direct light received from the light source out of the headlamp. A movable shade is positionable to control the light received by the reflector. A shade driver is coupled to the movable shade to position the shade. A first shade position configures the headlamp for high beam lighting. A second shade position configures the headlamp for low beam lighting. A third shade position configures the headlamp for daytime running lights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Steven Kovach
  • Patent number: 7677764
    Abstract: An exemplary illuminating apparatus comprises a light source holder, a linear light source and two elongated reflecting plates. The linear light source is mounted on the light source holder. The elongated reflecting plates are mounted on opposite sides of the light source holder. Each of the elongated reflecting plates is rotatable about a rotation axis relative to the light source holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tsung-Yu Lin
  • Publication number: 20090303723
    Abstract: A stage projector extends along a first axis and is provided with a first optical system having a first focus and designed substantially to generate and concentrate a light beam in the first focus, and a second optical system set downstream of the first focus and having a second focus, the second optical system having a first optical assembly, set in a given position along the first axis so that the second focus coincides with the first focus, and a second optical assembly, selectively mobile between an operative position, in which the second optical assembly intercepts the light beam between the first focus and the first optical assembly, and a position of rest, in which the second optical assembly does not intercept the light beam, the first and the second optical assemblies being mobile along the first axis in order to modify the form of the light beam and obtain a homogeneous distribution of the light within the light beam, when the second optical assembly is set in the operative position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2007
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Inventors: Angelo Cavenati, Pasquale Quadri
  • Publication number: 20090231854
    Abstract: The present invention provides a drive system for an optical light modulation system employing multiple light modulation element pairs. The each pair is driven by a single motor which drives one axis around which one element of the first pair rotates while the other element of the first pair free floats and rotates about a second axis. While the second axis drives the rotation of the first element of the second pair and the first axis provides a rotation pivot for the second element of the second pair. Thus the two pairs share the two axises providing a more compact drive system that can be used more flexibly in an optical train of an automated multiparameter lighting system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2008
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Inventor: Paved Jurik
  • Patent number: 7540617
    Abstract: An illumination optical apparatus and a projection type display apparatus capable of preventing an image on boundary lines of a fly-eye lens from deviating from a designed position and preventing unevenness of brightness is provided: wherein a first lens holding member holding said first fly-eye lens; a second lens holding member joined to said first lens holding member, and holding said second fly-eye lens; and a third lens holding member joined to said second lens holding member, and holding an optical lens are provided; and said first lens holding member and said second lens holding member are joined to be relatively rotatable about an optical axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Assignees: Kyocera Corporation, NEC Display Solutions, Ltd.
    Inventors: Ryuuji Yamada, Hiroshi Gouda, Katsuyuki Takeuchi
  • Patent number: 7473002
    Abstract: A lamp includes a base, a lamp socket fixedly mounted on the base, a rotation disk rotatably mounted on the base, a housing fixedly mounted on the rotation disk and having a plurality of patterns, and a plurality of light emitting members mounted on the lamp socket and hidden in the housing. Thus, the housing is rotatable relative to the light emitting members, and the patterns of the housing are rotatable and movable relative to the light emitting members, so that the light beams of the light emitting members are projected outwardly through the patterns of the housing to produce rotatable and movable images by rotation of the housing, thereby enhancing the aesthetic quality of the lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Inventor: Yang-Chung Chen
  • Publication number: 20080316746
    Abstract: A method and/or apparatus is provided for constructing a dichroic color mixing flag for a multiparameter light that greatly improves the thermal shock tolerance of the flag and avoids having to use a more costly quartz substrate material as in the prior art.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2007
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Inventors: Richard S. Belliveau, Keith Dennis Cannon
  • Patent number: 7429918
    Abstract: A vehicle lighting system for illuminating ahead of a vehicle is provided with a plurality of light sources each adapted to illuminate a different illumination area to thereby form a predetermined light distribution pattern as a whole and a control unit for determining a traffic scene in which the vehicle is running and independently changing at least either an orientations or the light quantities of the plurality of light sources so as to form a target light distribution pattern which has been set in advance for the traffic scene.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2008
    Assignee: Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Takao Watanabe
  • Publication number: 20080123338
    Abstract: A lighting device according to this invention includes: a discharge lamp having an arc length of 3 mm or less; a reflector reflecting light emitted from the discharge lamp in a predetermined direction; and a reflecting device having a reflecting plate for reflecting the light reflected by the reflector toward a subject to be illuminated, the reflecting device being placed apart from the discharge lamp, the reflecting plate has an antifouling layer including a photocatalyst.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2007
    Publication date: May 29, 2008
    Inventor: Haruo Kokado
  • Patent number: 7344278
    Abstract: Luminaire with reflector of adjustable rotation comprises a luminaire housing, a reflector received in the housing and an assembled component at ends of reflector. Each longitudinal end of the luminaire has a recess and a projection on internal surface, the recess defining a circular arc, with center as longitudinal axis of a fluorescent lamp. Each assembled component has first and second axially outwardly protruding parts, cooperating with an associated recess and projection, respectively. The first part is received in the recess for guiding rotation of the reflector. The second part has a circular arced, toothed surface concentric with its associated recess, and cooperating with an associated projection that engages a respective one of a plurality of cavities of the toothed surface, to secure the reflector in a respective one of a plurality of rotational positions. Locations of recess and projection can be interchanged with locations of first and second parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Assignee: Pilux & Danpex A.G.
    Inventor: Antonios Paravantsos
  • Patent number: 7329028
    Abstract: A uniform light generating system for adjusting output brightness, including a light-generating unit, a light-transmitting unit, a hollow spheroid unit, a light-sensing unit, and a control unit. The light-generating unit has a light-emitting element for generating light beams and a brightness control element for adjusting the luminous flux of the light beam. The hollow spheroid unit is communicated with the other side of the light-transmitting unit for guiding the light beams into an external casing of the hollow spheroid unit. The light-sensing unit detects electric power values in the external casing. The control unit is electrically connected to the light-generating unit and the light-sensing unit. Thereby a user can obtain a real illumination value via adjusting the illumination values of the light beams that are projected from the hollow spheroid unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Assignee: Youngtek Electronics Corporation
    Inventors: Bily Wang, Chih-Ming Wang, Kuei-Pao Chen
  • Patent number: 7303314
    Abstract: A two piece adjustable trim for a sloped ceiling recessed downlight wherein the two piece trim has an upper element and a lower element hingedly connected to each other. A standard frame in housing may be utilized to receive the two piece rotatable trim, the trim and a lower element affixed to the mounting frame and pivotable relative to an upper trim element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: Genlyte Thomas Group, LLC
    Inventor: Mark Owen Jones
  • Patent number: 7290907
    Abstract: A vehicle headlamp. The headlamp comprises a light source and a reflector to direct light received from the light source out of the headlamp. A movable shade is positionable to control the light received by the reflector. A shade driver is coupled to the movable shade to position the shade. A first shade position configures the headlamp for high beam lighting. A second shade position configures the headlamp for low beam lighting. A third shade position configures the headlamp for daytime running lights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Steven Kovach
  • Patent number: 7287878
    Abstract: A cover for a LED sign is manufactured from a stainless steel sheet that is dimensionally larger than the array of light emitting diodes comprising the LED sign. The stainless steel sheet is laser cut and then bent to simultaneously form a plurality of apertures and a corresponding plurality of louvers each extending adjacent one of the apertures. The apertures facilitate viewing of the LED sign and the louvers shield the light emitting diodes comprising the LED sign from excessive light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Assignee: Digital Recorders, Inc.
    Inventor: William H. Miller
  • Patent number: 7270444
    Abstract: A stage lighting lamp unit includes a processor for receiving control data from a remote console. Beam orientation data for the lamp unit is passed to the lamp in the form of the x, y and z co-ordinates of a point in space through which the beam is to pass. The processor divides the required lamp travel into a number of stages dependent on execution duration data sent with the position data, and calculates, for each stage, a new value for pan and tilt angles for the lamp. These values are passed to pan and tilt controlling co-processors which control servo-motors for pan and tilt operation. The lamp unit also incorporates a rotatable shutter for interrupting the lamp beam when required. The shutters of all the lamps in a system can be instructed from the remote console to open and close in synchronism, thereby providing a stroboscopic effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Assignee: Production Resource Group, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Mark A. Hunt, Keith J. Owen, Michael D. Hughes
  • Patent number: 7235047
    Abstract: Endoscopes and other viewing devices that control the light that contacts a sample and/or that is detected emanating from a sample. The viewing devices are particularly well suited for in vivo imaging, although other uses are also included. The viewing devices, and methods related thereto, comprise a spatial light modulator in the illumination and/or detection light path so that light transmitted to the target via a bundle of light guides or optical system is transmitted substantially only into the cores of the light guide bundle and not into the cladding surrounding the light guides, filler between the light guides in the bundle, or undesired light guides. Also, methods and apparatus for mapping the pixels of the spatial light modulator to the cores of the light guides in the bundle (preferably at least 3 pixels (e.g., at least 3 mirrors for a digital micromirror device) for each core), as well as for mapping the light guides of one light guide bundle to another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Assignee: Motic China Group, Ltd.
    Inventors: Calum E. MacAulay, Andrew L. P. Dlugan, Pierre M. Lane
  • Patent number: 7217002
    Abstract: In a room lighting system (1; 27), e.g. an architectural lighting system, including two alignedly arranged refractive elements (9, 10) whose centers are substantially located in the beam axis (11) of a light source (7) and one (10) of which is mounted to be rotatable about said beam axis (11), also the other refractive element (9) is mounted to be rotatable about said beam axis (11), wherein drive means (18, 19; 13 to 17) plus control means (20) are associated with to the two refractive elements (9, 10) for selective rotation in the same sense or in opposite senses, and both of the refractive elements (9, 10) are prism elements, wherein at least the two refractive prism elements (9, 10) are arranged in a common housing (2; 28).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Inventors: Johannes Jungel-Schmid, Dimitre Tochev, Ivan Tochev
  • Patent number: 7182470
    Abstract: A light amount control apparatus includes a pair of light amount control plates arranged at side edge portions of a light path, a driving device having a drive rotating shaft, and a transmitting member for transmitting rotation of the drive rotating shaft to the light amount control plates. The light amount control plates are supported by the rotating support shafts at two side edges of the light path to pivot in an advancing direction of the light path. The drive rotating shaft is arranged substantially parallel to the rotating support shafts. A transmitting member includes a first gear assembly connected to the drive rotating shaft, and a second gear assembly rotated in a direction reverse thereto. One light amount control plate is fixedly supported by the first gear assembly, and the other light amount control plate is fixedly supported by the second gear assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Assignee: Nisca Corporation
    Inventors: Kenitiro Hashimoto, Yukihiko Hayakawa
  • Patent number: 7163317
    Abstract: Color-changing apparatus, and an associated method, for a lighting assembly. One or more dichroic filters are selectably positioned in the path of a light beam generated by a light source. A positioner supportively positions the dichroic filter and effectuates its translation into and out of the path of the light beam. A set of dichroic filters, each separately supported by a separate actuating positioner permits a combination of dichroic filters to be combined to cause the light color of the light beam to be of any desired color.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Assignee: Wybron, Inc.
    Inventors: Russell A. Warnecke, Kenneth R. Fasen
  • Patent number: 7156539
    Abstract: A reflector device for a luminaire, said reflector device comprising a pair of resilient sheets positioned one to either side of a spine in the manner of the pages of a book, said sheets when in an unbiased condition lying substantially in two planes intersecting at an obtuse angle and when flexed and retained against the bias of their normal resilience having a doubly arched configuration which forms a reflective surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Inventor: Paul Andrew Cronk
  • Patent number: 7144134
    Abstract: A light projector is provided which includes an elliptical reflector, a first spherical retro-reflector, the first retro-reflector having an first aperture formed therein, the first aperture having a first diameter and a first center-point, a second spherical retro-reflector located between the elliptical reflector and the first retro-reflector, the second retro-reflector having a second aperture formed therein, the second aperture having a second diameter and a second center-point, the second diameter smaller than the first diameter, the first and second center-points lying along a common axis, and a light source, the light source located at a foci of the elliptical reflector, the light source lying along the common axis, the elliptical reflector reflecting light emitted by the light source, the reflected light passing through the first and second apertures, the first and second retro-reflectors being positioned so as to reflect light emitted by the light source back towards the light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: Morpheus Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Richard Romano, Robert Fry, Wallace Daniels
  • Patent number: 7128443
    Abstract: A light-collimating system for collimating light from a light source has a plurality of elements (2, 2?, . . . ), each element including at least a first wall (3, 3?, . . . ) and at least a second wall (4, 4?, . . . ). The first (3) and second wall (4?) of adjacent elements are spaced with respect to each other at a side of the light-collimating system facing the light source, the spacing defining an aperture window (5, 5?, . . . ) for admitting light into the light-collimating system. The first and second wall of said adjacent elements form a wedge-shaped structure widening in a direction facing away from the light source. The first and the second wall are provided with a specular reflecting surface at a side facing the wedge-shaped structure. According to the invention, the wedge angle (w of the first and second wall with respect to the normal on the aperture window are adjustable for enabling adjustable collimation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics, N.V.
    Inventors: Johannes Marra, Harald Glaeser
  • Patent number: 7108401
    Abstract: A specialized lighting fixture, such as a framing projector provided with a plurality of adjustable framing shutters, is modified to incorporate a pair of locking rings, surrounding the body of the lighting fixture and positioned on opposite sides of outwardly projecting portions of the framing shutters. After initial adjustment of the framing shutters has been completed, the locking rings are tightly compressed together, as by locking screws positioned between adjacent pairs of framing shutters, to lock the shutters in position against unintended dislodgment. For lighting fixtures of non-uniform shape, the locking rings may be made in two parts, preferably hinged together, which are secured together after being positioned on the housing of the lighting fixture. The locking rings are particularly adapted for retrofit installation on lighting fixtures of existing design.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: Lighting Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth M. Kane, Frank Cogliano
  • Patent number: 7077531
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a reflector apparatus for reflecting light upon a film set. The reflector apparatus comprises a fire retardant frame formed of a twin wall board made with a block-copolymer polypropylene resin with flame inhibiting properties. A flexible fire retardant sheet is detachably attached with the frame. The fire retardant sheet is constructed of a fire retardant material such as ripstop, ultra bounce, and nugget cloth. Through use of the reflector apparatus, a user can direct the light from a lamp onto the frame and/or flexible fire retardant sheet to be reflected onto the film set, allowing the user to control lighting conditions of the film set. The present invention also relates to a method for reflecting light upon a set using the reflector apparatus described herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Inventors: Chris Reid, Calese Russell, Wendell Harris, Earl Harris, Charles Sorenson
  • Patent number: 7077547
    Abstract: An ultraviolet lamp assembly includes an elongate lamp bulb, a central reflector mounted above the bulb and side reflector panels mounted on opposite sides of the central reflector panel. A first air gap is located between the first side reflector panel and the central reflector panel when the first and second side reflector panels are in the open position. A second air gap is located between the second side reflector panel and the central reflector panel when the first and second side reflector panels are in the open position. An air moving device is configured to direct cooling air downwardly through the perforations at the upper portion of the bulb and downwardly through the first and second air gaps at the lower portion of the bulb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: Nordson Corporation
    Inventors: James W. Schmitkons, Jan L. Shanaberger
  • Patent number: 7033047
    Abstract: A shutter section includes a stack of circular plates independently rotatable in a nest formed as a laminar formation of rings. The plates have central openings defining a light path. Four central plates in the stack are shutter guide plates with radial guide slots slideably holding shutter blades. Two outer pairs of plates are shutter drive plates connected by cams to the shutter blades. Simultaneous rotation of a shutter guide plate and associated shutter drive plate causes rotation of an associated shutter blade around the light path. Rotation of a shutter drive plate while the associated shutter guide plate is stationary causes the cam to move the associated shutter blade radially. The nest is enclosed by end plates. A motor section has motors driving pinions to rotate the circular plates. The circular plates, rings pinions and shutter blades are made of sheet metal. Shutters may be provided as interleaved pairs each driven by a pair of rotatable drive plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: Electronic Theatre Controls, Inc.
    Inventors: David J. Gennrich, Sheldon Roberts
  • Patent number: 7008094
    Abstract: A vehicle light can include a light source, a major reflecting surface, a projection lens, and a shutter. A first reflecting surface of an ellipse group reflecting surface preferably has a first focus on the light source and a second focus, capable of being inserted in or removed from an optical path from the light source to a second fixed reflecting surface. A first fixed reflecting surface of a parabolic group reflecting surface can include a focus on the second focus of the first reflecting surface, and at least two second reflecting surface elements. The second fixed reflecting surface can include a first focus on the light source and at least two third reflecting surface elements for reflecting light rays that have traveled an optical path from the light source thereto without being reflected by the first reflecting surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Assignee: Stanley Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hitoshi Taniuchi
  • Patent number: 6988817
    Abstract: An illumination obscurement device for controlling the obscurement of illumination from a light source which is optimized for use with a rectangular, arrayed, selective reflection device. In a preferred embodiment, a rotatable shutter with three positions is placed between a light source and a DMD. The first position of the shutter is a mask, preferably an out of focus circle. This out of focus circle creates a circular mask and changes any unwanted dim reflection to a circular shape. The second position of the shutter is completely open, allowing substantially all the light to pass. The third position of the shutter is completely closed, blocking substantially all the light from passing. By controlling the penumbra illumination surrounding the desired illumination, DMDs can be used in illumination devices without creating undesirable rectangular penumbras.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Assignee: Production Resource Group L.L.C.
    Inventors: William Hewlett, Nigel Evans
  • Patent number: 6971770
    Abstract: Lighting apparatus includes an effect wheel which is mounted on a rotation mechanism. The rotation mechanism is mounted on a mechanism which moves the effect wheel from a position outside of the light path to a position in which the effect wheel intersects the light path to provide a continuous wheel effect. The translation mechanism can move the effect wheel between positions in which the effect wheel crosses the light path in a horizontal direction and in a vertical direction, respectively. The apparatus allows a continuous wheel effect to be added to a multi-purpose luminaire and also allows the direction of travel of the continuous wheel effect across the illuminated field to be continuously varied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Assignee: Martin Professional A/S
    Inventors: Niels Jorgen Rasmussen, Mads Glavind
  • Patent number: 6969183
    Abstract: A digital lighting apparatus for a vehicle, which employs a reflection digital light deflector, includes a storage unit that stores digital data of a plurality of light distribution patterns and a controller. The controller selects digital data corresponding to a predetermined light distribution pattern from among the digital data stored in the storage unit and controls the reflection digital light deflector, and illuminates a road surface and the like with the predetermined light distribution pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Assignee: Ichikoh Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Okubo, Seiji Hayashi
  • Patent number: 6966683
    Abstract: The proposed device uses a plastic of any color with a cavity introduced in it and preferably with a polished inner surface, instead of a reflector or a light guide, to utilize increased reflection with grazing incidence (large angle of incidence versus the normal to the surface). The light from a light source is transported to the symbol by reflection in this cavity and on the inner surface. The light source is preferably of a flat structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Assignee: Preh-Werke GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Haiko Glienicke
  • Patent number: 6939026
    Abstract: A shutter section includes a stack of circular plates independently rotatable in a nest formed as a laminar formation of rings. The plates have central openings defining a light path. Four central plates in the stack are shutter guide plates with radial guide slots slideably holding shutter blades. Two outer pairs of plates are shutter drive plates connected by cams to the shutter blades. Simultaneous rotation of a shutter guide plate and associated shutter drive plate causes rotation of an associated shutter blade around the light path. Rotation of a shutter drive plate while the associated shutter guide plate is stationary causes the cam to move the associated shutter blade radially. The nest is enclosed by end plates. A motor section has motors driving pinions to rotate the circular plates. The circular plates, rings pinions and shutter blades are made of sheet metal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: Electronic Theatre Controls, Inc.
    Inventors: David James Gennrich, Sheldon Roberts
  • Patent number: 6891686
    Abstract: A flexible medium for a scrolling color changer and method of making thereof. The medium is made by applying an ink using a Meyer Rod which has varying cell lengths along its length. This leaves varying size cells of ink at different locations along the length of the medium. The ink has special characteristics whereby its evaporation rate and viscosity are carefully controlled. The viscosity is such that an amount of levelling will occur will be equal to the distance between any cells, but that cell to cell levelling will not, in general, occur.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: Production Resource Group, L.L.C.
    Inventor: William E. Hewlett
  • Patent number: 6883935
    Abstract: A reflector holder retains a reflector that has a hole in one of its ends. The holder includes a base with a quick-connect connector extending from the base. In one version, the quick-connect connector includes a semi-arcuate flange member that extends from the base. The member has a pair of edges extending between the base and the outward end of the flange member and a mid-portion between the edges. The member also has a concave side and a convex side. A connection post extends from the mid-portion of the concave side of the end of the member away from the base, and terminates in an outward end. A pair of lock ears extend from the outward end of the connection post, with one ear extending toward each of the edges of the flange member. Each lock ear terminates in a locking end that is spaced from one of the edges so as to define a gap between the locking end and edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Inventor: Leon Lassovsky