Electromagnetic Actuator Patents (Class 362/286)
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Publication number: 20030107899Abstract: An electronically controlled retractable landing light (100) for use with aircraft. A controller (106) compares the commanded position of a lighthead (108) by means of a contactless absolute position sensor (212). Operation of a brake (111), motor (110), and lamp (112) is controlled by a control unit (210). Electrical power to the brake (111), motor (110), and lamp (112) is slowly applied and removed to reduce electromagnetic emissions and extend the service life of a power stage (208), brake (111), motor (110), and lamp (112). The lighthead (108) may be manually stowed in the event of a fault.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 23, 2002Publication date: June 12, 2003Inventors: Brian J. Barnhart, Craig E. Giffen, Scott E. Hamilton, Saed M. Mubaslat
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Patent number: 6567009Abstract: An object of the invention is to provide a LED lighting equipment which can be simply perform lighting control of the light by any body and can obtain wide variety of tones in wide range by easy operation. A light control type LED lighting equipment comprises a LED aggregate lamp portion, control input generating means for generating one series of control input signal, control output generating means and individual power control means. A color tone of said LED aggregate lamp portion being varied continuously depending on the value of said control input signal.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2000Date of Patent: May 20, 2003Assignees: Avix Inc., Central Japan Railway CompanyInventors: Masatoshi Ohishi, Toyotaro Tokimoto, Fumio Imai
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Publication number: 20030090895Abstract: A compact, battery-powered LED lighting device having manual and/or magnetically actuatable switches, a microprocessor and timer is used in a retaining system that includes a first retaining pouch for receiving the lighting device and a second retaining pouch for holding a magnet, the retainers being secured to opposing sidewalls of a container, such as a ladies handbag or a briefcase, so that when the container is opened a magnetic switch in the lighting device closes the circuit actuating the LED to illuminate the interior contents of the container for a predetermined period of time. The manual switch can be used to override the timed illumination and to turn the LED on or off at any time.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 25, 2002Publication date: May 15, 2003Inventor: Salvatore Guerrieri
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Patent number: 6561677Abstract: A night light having a base unit with a central cavity designed to house a light sensor, a printed circuit board, a light bulb, and a pair of electrical prongs. Attached to the front surface of the base unit is a fixed half-spherical lens. Disposed over the lens is a rotating, half-spherical cap having an approximately quarter-spherical sized opening that allows a portion of the lens to be exposed so that light from the light bulb located inside the lens may shine therethrough. Thus when the outer cap is selectively rotated around the base unit, the quarter-spherical sized opening is rotated therewith, and a dissipated broad beam of light may be selectively aimed in any 360 degree direction.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2001Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Inventor: Monte A. Leen
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Patent number: 6540385Abstract: A vehicular headlamp in which a light source and an actuator are connected to a power source using the minimum number of parts, lamp body waterproofing and dustproofing are assured, and each connector is firmly secured to the lamp body of the headlamp. The headlamp includes the actuator for operating a light distribution changing device that changes the distribution of light emitted from the light source. A hookup connector which is provided with a connection portion connected to a power side connector provided on a power cord connected to a vehicle power source at one end thereof and a connection portion connected to the light source side connector and the actuator side connector at the other end thereof is mounted in a hole formed in the lamp body. The hookup connector has a flange which covers the periphery of the opening.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2001Date of Patent: April 1, 2003Assignee: Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yoshimi Ikeda, Kazuhiro Hanamori
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Patent number: 6530677Abstract: A method and apparatus for instructing a procedure for manufacturing a wire harness are provided. A plurality of work positions is simultaneously illuminated with the visible light, and a procedure related to each work position is displayed with an optical image formed by scanning the work positions. Optical images may be consecutive numerical values formed of the visible light in correspondence to the order of works, or an outline drawing G of the wire harness WH may be displayed with an optical image formed of the visible light. Thereby, it is possible to display the order of stages without detecting the progress of an operator's work one by one. Further, utilization of the optical image allows the order of stages to be recognized easily and prevents errors from being made. Furthermore, a first holder pivotally holds a light source on a first axis. A light source-driving member for pivoting the light source on the first axis is provided on the first holder.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2000Date of Patent: March 11, 2003Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.Inventors: Hiroto Mori, Yoshikazu Taniguchi
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Patent number: 6527424Abstract: A headlight for a vehicle for producing a low beam and at least one light beam with a greater distance, the headlight comprising a light source, a reflector, the light source and the reflector together forming a headlight unit, an electrically adjusting device for changing a relative position between the light source and the reflector, a light width adjusting device for turning the headlight insert about an at least approximately horizontally extending axis, and a safety device operative for monitoring at least indirectly an operation of the adjusting device and in the case of an error when the adjusting device operates not in an orderly manner, the safety device reduces an electric power with which the light source is operated and/or reduces a distance of a light beam produced by the headlight unit.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2001Date of Patent: March 4, 2003Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Ernst-Olaf Rosenhahn, Michael Hamm, Walter Thieringer, Rainer Wuestenhagen, Doris Boebel
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Patent number: 6517216Abstract: The present invention includes an adjustable lighting fixture having a housing and light holders which are able to extend, pivot, spin, and slide with respect to the housing, a mounting arm, or each other. The lighting fixture may thus provide enhanced lighting during events, such as live performances, teleconferencing, filming, or videotaping. Each adjustable lighting fixture generally includes a light holder positioned on a mounting arm pivotally or otherwise movably connected to the housing. The lighting fixture uses fluorescent light sources. When enhanced lighting is not required, the light holders may be restored in the housing in an aesthetic manner.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2000Date of Patent: February 11, 2003Assignee: Brightline, L.P.Inventors: Samuel P. Cercone, Katherine Katz
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Publication number: 20020196627Abstract: A light includes a casing for securing to an object, such as the head light housing, a socket slidably received in the casing for supporting a light bulb, and a reflector disposed around the light bulb. The light bulb is a high intensity light bulb that may generate a strong light. A cable is coupled between the socket and a solenoid device, for moving the light bulb relative to the reflector to adjust a light beam of the light device when the solenoid device is energized. A spring may be engaged with the cable for recovering the light bulb relative to the reflector.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 22, 2001Publication date: December 26, 2002Inventor: Jen Hsieh Shin
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Publication number: 20020196626Abstract: An array of photo detectors or a ground glass is employed in concert with a beam-forming reflector to generate a positional error(s) as the light source is displaced from a reference location in the vertical plane. The beam is formed by means of a small hole through the reflector on its optical axis. These error signals are interpreted visually or introduced into electronic servo loops to mechanically drive the lamp assembly to an on-axis reference location. Provision is made to move the reflector along the optical axis to achieve co alignment of the reflected image of the arc source with its direct image.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 21, 2001Publication date: December 26, 2002Inventors: Bernard Petrillo, Bruno Israel, Theodore Joshua
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Patent number: 6494595Abstract: This invention relates to a rotary patterned lamp, which includes a supporting frame to connect with a rotator. The rotator has a downward link to connect with a patterned lamp having lighting string thereon. The frame is provided with two pins, each of which is contacted with a conductive ring around the rotator and a conductive rod between the frame and the rotator. The two pins are connected with the electrical wire extendedly to the power source to provide the power to light up the bulb of the patterned lamp that obtains a rotary decorative improved lighting effect.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2001Date of Patent: December 17, 2002Inventor: Fong-Shi Lin
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Publication number: 20020181244Abstract: A headlamp system for a motor vehicle for providing increased visibility to a driver of the vehicle when the vehicle is in a moisture-laden atmosphere. The system includes at least one headlamp adapted to produce a beam of illuminating light and a shield mounted for placement adjacent to said at least one headlamp. The headlamp is selectively movable between a first position in which it is recessed into the body of the vehicle and a second position in which it projects in front of the body of the vehicle to permit the shield to deflect at least a portion of the beam of illuminating light emitted.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 23, 2002Publication date: December 5, 2002Inventor: John T. Griffin
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Publication number: 20020181235Abstract: An illuminated decorative globe has an outer translucent cover 10 forming an enclosure to an inner globe 11. The inner globe is supported on a rotatable frame 13 and a light bulb 15 is mounted inside the globe. A surface of the globe carries an image, such as a world map, that is projected onto the surface of the cover and visible from outside the cover. The image is swept around the cover as the frame is rotated by an electric motor 16.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 4, 2001Publication date: December 5, 2002Applicant: Green Logic Associates limitedInventor: Wing Leung
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Publication number: 20020163817Abstract: A bicycle lighting system has a lighting mechanism attached to a wheel of the bicycle. As the wheel revolves, an actuator activates the light at a predetermined point. The actuation may be physical or electromagnetic in nature. The actuation triggers the lighting of light contained in the lighting mechanism. The light beams may emanate parallel to the path defined by the spokes, or perpendicular to the emanating spokes. To an observer from the front, the light travels downward over the effective wheel height, transforming the light into an elongated light source equal to the wheel height. The rate at which the light source travels downward gives rotational information. The lighting may be for a predetermined time. Or, either of the lights may be strobed. A timing circuitry sensitive to rotational information allows the lights to be switched on and off at predetermined times and/or points in the revolution of the wheel. Delays may be introduced, and strobing effects may be also introduced.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 7, 2001Publication date: November 7, 2002Inventor: Clifton R. Bukowsky
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Publication number: 20020149940Abstract: A light is mounted on each one of a plurality of movable light supporting carts. The carts are moved along a predefined path. The lights can be energized to produce light beams as the carts move. Alternatively, the lights may remain off as the carts are controllably moved along the path to position each cart at a selected location along the path, and the lights energized after the carts are position. The carts, or selected carts, can be controllably moved at a selectably variable speed or speeds and/or in a selectably variable direction or directions while the lights are energized to produce the light beams. The lights themselves can be controllably moved with respect to their respective support carts, to controllably pan, tilt, swivel, etc. each light as the carts move, thereby facilitating production of a wide range of illumination effects.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 12, 2001Publication date: October 17, 2002Inventors: Hermann Fruhm, Francois Eugene Charron
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Patent number: 6461009Abstract: A modular rotatable warning light incorporates a standardized shaft, rotatable sub-assembly, motor and worm gear to form the mechanical core of the assembly. The rotatable sub-assembly includes a rotatable reflector mount supported by two axially spaced bearings for rotation around a hub. The axially spaced bearings significantly improve the function and service life of the rotatable warning light. The standardized parts are combined with a selected base plate, lamp holder, lamp and reflector to produce a modular rotatable warning light having a specified overall configuration. The efficiency of production and maintenance of various rotatable warning light configurations is improved by reducing engineering, production, maintenance and inventory costs.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2001Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Whelen Engineering Company, IncorporatedInventor: Kevin M. Smith
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Patent number: 6450671Abstract: The invention relates to a medical lighting unit for clinical use comprising a lighting unit body containing at least one lamp and having at least one light outlet side, with the lighting unit body being vertically adjustably mounted on at least one flexible, coilable tensile carrying element supported on a room wall, in particular on the room ceiling. The tensile carrying element is connected at one end to the lighting unit body and at the other end to a drive unit secured to the room wall and containing a drive motor for extending and retracting the tensile carrying element, with the tensile carrying element extending vertically between the drive unit and the lighting unit body. The invention lies in the fact that the carrying element is a single chain with measures being taken, or means being provided, in order to be able to set the lighting unit body in a desired illuminating position despite the single chain suspension.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 1999Date of Patent: September 17, 2002Assignee: Gebrueder Berchtold GmbH & Co.Inventors: Manfred Scholz, Martin Braig
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Patent number: 6447150Abstract: A support pole for raising and lowering a supported object between a lower position and an elevated position is disclosed. The support pole includes an elongate pole having a top, a bottom, and a channel extending at least partly between the top and bottom. A threaded rod is rotationally mounted within the channel, and is connected to a detachable coupling for engaging a drive tool to rotationally drive the threaded rod. A carriage engages the threaded rod, such that rotation of the rod imparts translational movement upon the carriage through the channel. The carriage includes a mounting bracket for attachment of the supported object thereto. A cable connecting the supported object and an external device or power source has a detachable coupling, and is carried along a pulley at the top of the elongate pole when the carriage is raised and lowered.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2000Date of Patent: September 10, 2002Assignee: Videolarm, Inc.Inventors: Chung-Hua Jen, Peter G. Schneider, Kevin Seitz, Raymond V. Pagano, Gregory Lalier, Robert N. Nelson, James L. Pfaffenberger, II
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Patent number: 6435698Abstract: The invention relates to a rotary device for use for lighting systems which ensure flexible and, if required, even mobile illumination of a room, for example of a television studio. The rotary device according to the invention is mounted at intersections of a transport rail system for conveying transport units, for example lamps. It has two components which can be rotated relative to one another and of which one is in the form of a pivot bearing, serving for fastening at the intersection, for the other, while the other is a rail support containing at least one rail section. According to the invention, each rail section of the rail support is provided with contact tracks so that the transport unit present on the rail section and having current collectors can obtain energy.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2000Date of Patent: August 20, 2002Inventor: Enrico Schneider
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Patent number: 6428187Abstract: An adjustable vehicle light device for a vehicle includes a housing secured to the vehicle, a reflector disposed in front of the housing, a light bulb slidably engaged through the bore of the reflector. A solenoid device is received in the housing and coupled to the light bulb for moving the light bulb relative to the reflector and the housing and for adjusting the light beam of the vehicle. The solenoid device includes a core slidably received in a coil and coupled to a socket of the light bulb for moving the socket and the light relative to the housing and the reflector.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2001Date of Patent: August 6, 2002Inventor: Jen Hsieh Shin
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Publication number: 20020075693Abstract: A headlight for a vehicle for producing a low beam and at least one light beam with a greater distance, the headlight comprising a light source, a reflector, the light source and the reflector together forming a headlight unit, an electrically adjusting device for changing a relative position between the light source and the reflector, a light width adjusting device for turning the headlight insert about an at least approximately horizontally extending axis, and a safety device operative for monitoring at least indirectly an operation of the adjusting device and in the case of an error when the adjusting device operates not in an orderly manner, the safety device reduces an electric power with which the light source is operated and/or reduces a distance of a light beam produced by the headlight unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 13, 2001Publication date: June 20, 2002Inventors: Ernst-Olaf Rosenhahn, Michael Hamm, Walter Thieringer, Rainer Wuestenhagen, Doris Boebel
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Publication number: 20020067619Abstract: A vehicular headlamp in which a light source and an actuator are connected to a power source using the minimum number of parts, lamp body waterproofing and dustproofing are assured, and each connector is firmly secured to the lamp body of the headlamp. The headlamp includes the actuator for operating a light distribution changing device that changes the distribution of light emitted from the light source. A hookup connector which is provided with a connection portion connected to a power side connector provided on a power cord connected to a vehicle power source at one end thereof and a connection portion connected to the light source side connector and the actuator side connector at the other end thereof is mounted in a hole formed in the lamp body. The hookup connector has a flange which covers the periphery of the opening.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 28, 2001Publication date: June 6, 2002Applicant: KOITO MANUFACTURING CO., LTD.Inventors: Yoshimi Ikeda, Kazuhiro Hanamori
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Publication number: 20020064045Abstract: A vehicle lamp includes a drive portion having a drive source, and a lamp body that has a light source and that is supported by a rotary shaft operable to be rotated by the drive portion. A rotary contact is provided around the rotary shaft and rotates together with the lamp body. A fixed contact is provided for the drive portion. The rotary contact and the light source are electrically connected through a power supply cord and electric power is supplied to the fixed contact.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2001Publication date: May 30, 2002Inventors: Atsushi Sugimoto, Keiichi Tajima, Kazuma Mochizuki, Masanori Nishigaya
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Patent number: 6371621Abstract: An improved flush-mount emergency light fixture (10) is provided having a housing (12) adapted for placement in a wall or ceiling aperture (20), an internal illumination assembly (16) and a selectively movable cover (14), in order to provide illumination during an emergency condition. The fixture (10) includes a servo-motor (74) and an operator (78) for controlled movement of the cover (14) between a closed position and a deployed illumination position. A floating hinge (54) couples the cover (14) to housing (12) and allows the cover to both pivot and translate relative to the housing (12) during cover movement.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2000Date of Patent: April 16, 2002Assignee: SPX CorporationInventor: Vincent Victor Le Bel
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Patent number: 6354721Abstract: Headlamp for motor vehicles, which can generate selectively a full light beam and a dipped/fog light beam, including a reflector which is subdivided into an upper reflective area, and a lower reflective area, and has an optical axis, along which there is disposed a single fixed light source consisting of a bulb with a single filament, a lens, which is disposed in a front position and at right-angles relative to the optical axis, and can converge the dipped/fog light beam, intermediate screens which are partially mobile, and can assume selectively a first position, in which they can intercept part of the said full light beam, in order to convert the latter into the said dipped/fog light beam, and a second position, in which the said full beam is not intercepted, and movement means in order to displace the said intermediate screens between the said first and second positions, which means are disposed on the exterior of a casing, which contains the reflector, the light source, the lens and the intermediate screeType: GrantFiled: February 7, 2000Date of Patent: March 12, 2002Assignee: Automotive Lighting Italia S.p.A.Inventor: Sergio Zattoni
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Patent number: 6312139Abstract: An apparatus used to deliver light from overhead to stimulate plant growth in a controlled environment. The distance between tops of the plants and the lights can be adjusted to correlate with plant growth by a motorized assembly for raising and lowering a bar suspended from an upper support and upon which are mounted growth lights. Horizontal sway of the bar upon which the growth lights are mounted is minimized by a guiding structure for one end of the bar. When florescent growth lights are used, bulk and heat produced by their ballasts are eliminated by locating all ballasts remotely from the apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 1999Date of Patent: November 6, 2001Assignee: Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc.Inventors: Britt W. Baker, Michael A. O'Brien, Dick Gosselink, Carla Peterman
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Patent number: 6283603Abstract: A lighting device is composed of a case, a driving device, a power source contacting device, a power source rotary device, an actuating arm, and at least a light ball. When the power source is turned on to light up the lighting device, the motor of the driving device starts to rotate the rotary device and the actuating arm synchronously. Accordingly, the lighting ball is rotated horizontally. In addition, a gear disk of the light ball rolls along a gear ring on the case such that the light ball can rotate vertically as well.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2000Date of Patent: September 4, 2001Assignee: Superstar Lighting Company LimitedInventor: Yu-Chuan Lin
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Patent number: 6254253Abstract: The invention is a device for deflecting a light beam. A system includes a memory unit for memorizing the data of a symbol to be read into the system, a laser beam deflection unit, a laser, and a power source. All parts are integrated in a housing which can be held by the human hand. The light beam is deflected using piezo-responsive elements.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 1999Date of Patent: July 3, 2001Assignee: Viewpoint Technology, Inc.Inventors: Wolfgang Daum, Wieland Hingst
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Patent number: 6247835Abstract: A vehicle headlight includes a driving unit capable of repeatedly switching the headlight's light distribution pattern between a by-passing mode and a traveling mode by moving an element committed to the formation of the light distribution patterns. The driving unit includes a first spring for biasing a positioning element in a by-passing mode, a meshing gear for moving the positioning element to a traveling mode position against the bias of the first spring, a motor which supplies power to drive the meshing gear, a second spring biased in an engaging direction of the meshing gear, a solenoid for releasing the engagement of the meshing gear with a second gear against the pulling power of the second spring. The disclosed headlight enables size reduction of the driving unit, and provides improved reliability if the motor malfunctions.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 1999Date of Patent: June 19, 2001Assignee: Stanley Electric Co., Ltd.Inventor: Hitoshi Taniuchi
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Patent number: 6206555Abstract: A headlight for a low beam and a high beam in a vehicle has a reflector, a light source, an adjusting device operative for displacing the light source relative to the reflector between a position for a low beam and a position for a high beam, the adjusting device including holding means which produce a holding force for fixing the light source in one of the two positions.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 1999Date of Patent: March 27, 2001Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Kirsten Redzinsky, Heinz Grimm
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Patent number: 6164788Abstract: A drop down concealed emergency lighting unit includes a box-like housing for substantially flush mounting in a recess and a pivotally mounted door for closing the opening in the housing and upon which is mounted a lamp unit. A drive assembly moves the door between the open and closed positions and includes a DC motor on the housing with a drive gear which is operatively engageable with a driven gear on the door to move the door to the closed position. An electrical control circuit senses the absence of alternating current and effects disengagement of the gears to allow the door to move from the closed position to the open position, and senses the restoration of alternating current to effect reengagement of the gears to actuate the motor to move the door to the closed position.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 1998Date of Patent: December 26, 2000Inventors: Thomas Gemmell, Abi Madadi
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Patent number: 6116756Abstract: A micro-machined movable light emitting assembly is formed on or from an undoped or pure III-V substrate or formed on or from a doped III-V substrate. The movable light emitting assemblies are to be actuated using force generators, to generate the various mechanical degrees of freedom depending on the type of stage suspension and actuation.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 1998Date of Patent: September 12, 2000Assignee: Xerox CorporationInventors: Eric Peeters, Decai Sun, G. A. Neville Connell, Ross D. Bringans, Raj B. Apte, Thomas L. Paoli, Patrick Y. Maeda, David K. Fork, Joel A. Kubby, Philip D. Floyd
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Patent number: 6033099Abstract: An add-on flip-up headlight winking system which controls the flip-up headlights of the vehicle to give the appearance that a headlight has winked. Moreover, the add-on flip-up headlight winking system may be provided with a optional headlight flasher module which causes the headlights to flash during the winking mode of operation.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 1998Date of Patent: March 7, 2000Inventor: Philip Kulis
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Patent number: 5975726Abstract: A high mast lighting system is disclosed in which an elongated vertical mast having upper and lower ends is surrounded by an annular support ring. The support ring has a plurality of lamps removably mounted thereon. Drive means is provided for raising and lowering the ring along the mast between its upper and lower ends. A plurality of guide rollers are mounted on the upper end of the mast with a plurality of flexible cables operatively connected at one end to the ring and guided over the rollers on the mast. The opposite ends of the cables extend downwardly from the rollers into the mast where they are operatively connected to the drive means which selectively moves the cables upwardly and downwardly in the mast to raise and lower the ring. The system includes a rigid hollow latching arm associated with at least one of the cables and pivotally connected to the ring above the connection of its associated cable to the ring with the cable passing through the arm.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 1997Date of Patent: November 2, 1999Assignee: Quality LightingInventor: Michael Latimer
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Patent number: 5971574Abstract: An automobile headlight including a single movable light source which does not change the angle of its optical axis relative to the optical axis of the reflector. The light source is coupled to an apparatus capable of changing the position of the light source depending on the driving state of the automobile. The headlight has sufficient light distribution patterns for multiple driving conditions, such as when the automobile is traveling straight ahead, by-passing another vehicle, or carrying a heavy load, without changing the angle of the optical axis of the light source relative to the optical axis of the reflector. This allows the driver to maintain good visibility while prolonging the life of the headlight and reducing its overall size.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 1997Date of Patent: October 26, 1999Assignee: Stanley Electric Co., LtdInventors: Hitoshi Taniuchi, Hiroshi Iwasaki, Takashi Futami
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Patent number: 5957562Abstract: A lighting apparatus for a model lighthouse provides a lighting effect similar to that of a commercial lighthouse. In one embodiment a lamp is rotationally driven. In another embodiment a lighting means for extending a stationary lamp is taught so as to accommodate various size lighthouse models. In a still further embodiment, a combination of rotational and extension features are provided.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 1998Date of Patent: September 28, 1999Inventor: Raymond Hill
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Patent number: 5921659Abstract: 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 coordinates 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: GrantFiled: December 18, 1997Date of Patent: July 13, 1999Assignee: Light & Sound Design, Ltd.Inventors: Mark A. Hunt, Keith J. Owen, Michael D. Hughes
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Patent number: 5921670Abstract: A lighting system for passenger cabins, particularly aircraft passenger cabins, is equipped with at least one central light source cooperating with hollow light guides for distributing light in the passenger cabin. The light sources may be positioned in fixed locations within the aircraft or in fixed locations in the ceiling or in mobile locations within the hollow light guides. Light extractors are positioned where needed. The light guides are hollow preferably tubular light guides which may cooperate with optical light conductor fibers, and with lenses and mirrors where needed.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 1997Date of Patent: July 13, 1999Assignee: Daimler-Benz Aerospace Airbus GmbHInventors: Markus Schumacher, Andrew Muin, Michael Lau
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Patent number: 5911502Abstract: The present invention provides a a headlight operable as a running light of a vehicle and, in particular, as a headlight of the vehicle for selectively projecting a low and a high beam. The headlight includes a reflector having a light source disposed therein. A beam position adjusting device operates to move the light source between its low beam position and its high beam position. The beam position adjusting device includes an electric powered drive motor and a displaceable interconnecting element interconnecting the beam position adjusting device and the light source. The device also includes a motion translation element for translating the drive output of the drive motor to displacement of the displaceable interconnecting element, the beam position adjusting device being operable to dispose the light source in its high beam position. A return movement device automatically biases the light source to move to its low beam disposition when the drive motor is not powered.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 1998Date of Patent: June 15, 1999Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Ulrich Zillgitt, Stefan Hammerstingl, Werner Schulze, Thilo Wagner, Andreas Hammele, Elefterios Konto
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Patent number: 5842768Abstract: An oscillating signal light mechanism is comprised of at least one signal light assembly mounted on a base for rotation of the light assembly relative to the base, a source of motive power including an output shaft selectively rotated in opposite directions of rotation, and a mechanism mechanically connecting the output shaft to the signal light assembly for converting the rotation of the output shaft in opposite directions of rotation to cycling movements of the signal light assembly through two different arc segment oscillations.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 1996Date of Patent: December 1, 1998Assignee: The Fire Products CompanyInventor: W. Kenneth Menke
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Patent number: 5833343Abstract: The present invention is a light-source switching and driving unit where an accurate stop operation and a strong holding force are obtained and which is capable of reducing a noise and preventing an impact to light-source lamps. In this unit, a plurality of light-source lamps for being switched and used are disposed. When a burnout sensor detects the burnout of a lamp being currently used, a spare light-source lamp is moved to a predetermined position by a stepping motor. In switching one lamp to another lamp, a pulse generating circuit generates a drive pulse which gradually increases when the stepping motor is started and a drive pulse which gradually decreases when the stepping motor is stopped. The stepping motor is driven by these drive pulses. With this, in switching one lamp to another lamp, a slow operation can be realized when the motor is started and when the motor is stopped.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 1996Date of Patent: November 10, 1998Assignee: Fuji Photo Optical Co., Ltd.Inventors: Etuo Nakano, Suwao Satoh
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Patent number: 5816678Abstract: An airport beacon for use with a source of electrical energy is provided. The airport beacon comprises a stationary housing, a rotatable assembly rotatably mounted to the stationary housing, and a motor rigidly attached to the stationary housing and connected to the rotatable assembly for rotating the rotatable assembly. A conductive liquid-filled rotary coupling is used to connect the source of electrical energy to the rotatable assembly. The rotatable assembly includes a lamp housing having first and second lamp holders and a ballast assembly. The ballast assembly includes a first ballast which electrically connects the conductive liquid-filled rotary coupling to the first lamp holder and a second ballast which electrically connects the conductive liquid-filled rotary coupling to the second lamp holder.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 1997Date of Patent: October 6, 1998Assignee: Hali-Brite IncorporatedInventor: Gary B. Woehler
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Patent number: 5806956Abstract: A searchlight which comprises a cover mounted on a rotating support shaft and defining an axis of rotation, first means for rotating the support shaft containing the cover around the axis of rotation, a reflector pivotally mounted within the cover, and second means for rotating the reflector in a different direction relative to the direction of rotation of the cover.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 1996Date of Patent: September 15, 1998Inventor: Lee Hyun-Jo
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Patent number: 5798911Abstract: The invention relates to an automatic light system (ALS) for motor vehicles of all types. According to the invention the headlamp system is operated in such a manner that at every instant of the journey the minimum beam range does not drop below the instantaneous stopping distance (=braking distance+reaction distance) of the vehicle and the particular light intensity required is determined and set. This can be done for example by vertical pivoting of the headlamps or reflectors. Furthermore, the beam direction is adapted to the instantaneous steering angle.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 1995Date of Patent: August 25, 1998Assignee: Ante JosicInventor: Ante Josic
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Patent number: 5785405Abstract: In a device for adjusting a presettable lighting level of a headlight in motor vehicles, the headlight is provided with a control device for adjusting a tilt angle of the headlight, and a control device assigns a corresponding tilt angle to each presettable lighting level.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 1996Date of Patent: July 28, 1998Assignee: Bayerische Motoren WerkeInventor: Wolfgang Huhn
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Patent number: 5769531Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 24, 1995Date of Patent: June 23, 1998Assignee: Light & Sound Design, Ltd.Inventors: Mark Alistair Hunt, Keith James Owen, Michael Derek Hughes
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Patent number: 5697691Abstract: An oscillating signal light mechanism is comprised of at least one signal light assembly mounted on a base for rotation of the light assembly relative to the base, a source of motive power including an output shaft selectively rotated in opposite directions of rotation, and a mechanism mechanically connecting the output shaft to the signal light assembly for converting the rotation of the output shaft in opposite directions of rotation to cycling movements of the signal light assembly through two different arc segment oscillations.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 1996Date of Patent: December 16, 1997Assignee: The Fire Products CompanyInventor: W. Kenneth Menke
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Patent number: 5688064Abstract: An inexpensive and reliable method and apparatus for selectively coupling the bulb stem of an electrodeless lamp to a rotatable drive shaft does not require side access to a set screw or an RF sealing arrangement. The coupler accommodates angular and eccentric misalignment of threadedly engageable members at relatively low manufacturing costs. A cylindrical coupler connected to the bulb stem is provided with a cylindrical cross-hole extending diametrically through and exposing the proximal end of the bulb stem in the longitudinal bore. A seating lock nut of generally rectangular configuration, and having a pair of opposite compressible turned out comers or "wings", is insertable through the cross-hole and is loosely retained at the intersection of the bore and cross-hole. The seating lock nut is sized, relative to the cross-hole and longitudinal bore, such that, upon being released within the cross-hole, the lock nut is loosely retained.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 1996Date of Patent: November 18, 1997Assignee: Fusion Lighting, Inc.Inventor: Bruce Shanks
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Patent number: 5673991Abstract: A manual and an electromotive actuatable adjusting apparatus for a reflector of a motor-vehicle headlight (1) are arranged together in a common housing. An adjusting pin (4), which is attachable to the reflector, can be moved along its length axis by both the manual and the electromotor adjusting apparatus. An end portion (6) of the adjusting pin, directed away from the reflector, slidably engages in a blind hole (7) of a gear (9) to be rotatable therewith. The gear is sealingly seated in a hollow cylinder (10) of a cover (2) and its hub (8) rotatably engages, while being axially fixed, in a bearing opening (13) in an end wall (12) closing off the hollow cylinder to the outside. There are a plurality of openings (14) in the hollow cylinder which allow a rod-shaped auxiliary tool (11) to be inserted therethrough so that when the tool is rotated about its length axis tooth-like protrusions (15) thereof engage in teeth (16) of the gear.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 1995Date of Patent: October 7, 1997Assignee: Hella KG Hueck & Co.Inventors: Willi Eickhoff, Gerhard Stumpe
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Patent number: 5673989Abstract: A portable searchlight is described which includes an upper lamp housing, a lower base support unit and a releasable attachment device to releasably attach the base support unit to another surface, such as, the roof of a motor vehicle. The lamp housing can be tilted or rotated by wireless remote control either from the interior of the vehicle or from a location away from the vehicle. The releasable attachment device is such that the apparatus can be secured by a suction cup or by placing the base support unit in a shoe which is anchored to another surface.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 1994Date of Patent: October 7, 1997Inventors: Gerald Lee Gohl, Albert W. Gebhard