With Rheostat Or Switch Patents (Class 362/295)
  • Patent number: 6517216
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2003
    Assignee: Brightline, L.P.
    Inventors: Samuel P. Cercone, Katherine Katz
  • Patent number: 6494590
    Abstract: Lighting devices are taught for machine tools. The lighting devices may include one or more light emitters controlled by an electric circuit, which can be connected via one or more conductors to the inner circuit of an electric machine tool. The electric circuit may comprise at least one photometer and a controller that automatically controls the illumination level of the light emitters in response to the ambient light intensity detected by the photometer. The present invention also relates to machine tools comprising such lighting devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Assignee: Makita Corporation
    Inventors: Mauro Paganini, Giorgio Paganini
  • Publication number: 20020186564
    Abstract: A light adjusting and controlling assembly has a light adjusting module, an illumination sensor, and a controller. The light adjusting module is connected to the illumination sensor. The illumination sensor is connected to the controller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2001
    Publication date: December 12, 2002
    Inventor: Tung-Liang Li
  • Publication number: 20020159254
    Abstract: A flashlight for improving the assembling of a switch by directly connecting respective parts to a printed circuit board in a switch is provided, in which the switch is fixed in the case by a screw and the screw comes into contact with a negative terminal which is protruded long in the traverse direction at an upper end of the switch for transmitting a negative current to a spring via the screw and the conductive metal case, and a bulb is applied with a fluorescent substance to a predetermined portion for the convenience when finding out the flashlight in the nighttime.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2002
    Publication date: October 31, 2002
    Inventor: Jeong-Kook Kwak
  • Publication number: 20020126475
    Abstract: The invention concerns a lighting system for furniture, in this case a bed fabricated of PVC pipe, which combines bedpost-mounted halogen illumination and under-bed electroluminescent illumination. The arrangement of the low-voltage lamps within the bed frame itself provides sufficient ambient lighting for the whole bedroom. This eliminates the need for other bedroom lighting such as table lamps or floor lamps, therefore conserving space. The touch switch feature makes turning on the lights extraordinarily convenient by allowing for operation while still in bed, by locating the touch pads on or near the headboard within easy reach. The dimmer feature adjusts the intensity of the lights for appropriate atmosphere and easy wake up lighting as opposed to typical harsh lighting first thing in the morning. Under lighting provides sufficient non-intrusive late-night visibility without interrupting sleep, in addition to the aesthetically pleasing “floating” appearance of the bed itself.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2001
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Inventor: Patrick Lem Washburn
  • Publication number: 20020126478
    Abstract: A back lighting system for illuminating a display device comprises a light-emitting panel (1) and a light source (6) for coupling light into the light-emitting panel (1). The light source comprises a low-pressure discharge lamp (6; 7). According to the invention, the light source additionally comprises a plurality of LEDs (8, 8′, . . . ; 9, 9′, . . . ) for selectively setting the color temperature of the light emitted by the light source. Preferably, the LEDs (8, 8′, . . . ; 9, 9′, . . . ) increase the color temperature of the light emitted by the light source. Preferably, the light emitted by the back lighting system ranges from 6,000 to 10,500 K. Preferably, the LEDs (8, 8′, . . . ; 9, 9′, . . . ) are blue light emitting LEDs, each preferably having a luminous flux of at least 5 lm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2002
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Inventors: Hugo Johan Cornelissen, Horst Greiner, John Alfred Clarke
  • Publication number: 20020118540
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling a string of miniature holiday lights in which the string of lights is provided with a miniature light switch. The light string has a plurality of miniature sockets electrically connected in series. The switch is mounted in one of the sockets and can turn on and off the lamps connected in series on that string of lights. The switch and lamps have substantially identical bases that are received in the sockets so that the switch is interchangeable with any of the lamps allowing the switch to be placed anywhere along the light string. This gives the user the ability to control a string of lights without unplugging the string of lights from the power source. It also allows the user to place the switch in a convenient location along the light string.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2001
    Publication date: August 29, 2002
    Inventor: Vito A. Ingrassia
  • Publication number: 20020105796
    Abstract: A tool light and method of using the same for illuminating a work area for a tool. The tool light includes a mounting mechanism to be mounted to a shaft of a tool, a housing carried by the mounting mechanism, at least one light source and at least one power source housed within the housing, and the at least one light source powered by the at least one power source to illuminate the work area for the tool. The method includes mounting the tool light to the shaft of the tool, and illuminating the work area with the at least one light source of the tool light. The at least one light source is preferably at least one Light Emitting Diode (“LED”).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2001
    Publication date: August 8, 2002
    Applicant: Technology Creations, Inc.
    Inventors: David Naghi, Eric A. Hanscom
  • Publication number: 20020093812
    Abstract: Plural light sources are provided for directing ring patterns of light toward at least one reflective bump formed on and projecting from a first wafer surface of a semiconductor wafer. The intensity of light from the light sources may be varied and may be varied independently of one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2001
    Publication date: July 18, 2002
    Applicant: Electroglas, Inc.
    Inventors: Cary S. Kiest, William F. Lenzke
  • Patent number: 6394869
    Abstract: A method for making an overhead light fixture includes forming top and bottom housing members, the top member having a horizontal top wall with fastener-receptors therein and an inside surface, and the bottom member being engageable with the top member, placing the top member on a work support structure in inverted orientation, placing each of the power-related components on the top-wall inside surface, securing the power-related components to the inside surface by engagement of fasteners in a common direction with a set of the top-wall fastener-receptors, placing the bottom member on the top member in inverted orientation and securing them together securing the bottom member to the top member, and removing the fixture from the support structure. Unidirectional fastener attachment is used for the securing steps in assembly, including with respect to attachment of a socket mount, and with respect to attachment of the top and bottom housing members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Assignee: Ruud Lighting, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric Haugaard, Kurt Wilcox
  • Patent number: 6361189
    Abstract: An operating theater luminaire having at least two discharge lamps, which can be switched on and off, can be started and alternatively can be switched on by means of a starting device, and illuminate an operating area via optical means, in particular at least one reflector. A plurality of, in particular two discharge lamps, equipped with individual starting devices, of different powers are provided, as a result of which the intensity of illumination in the operating area can be varied when switching over from one discharge lamp to another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Assignee: Gebrueder Berchtold GmbH & Co.
    Inventor: Manfred Scholz
  • Patent number: 6352356
    Abstract: An electric heating element (4) designed for heating a fluorescent lamp (2) of an illuminating device for a display is arranged on a printed circuit board (5) at only a small spacing from the flourescent lamp (2). As a result, the fluorescent lamp (2) can be specifically heated in the predetermined regions, the production being simplified at the same time. At the same time, the mounting of the heating element (4) can be performed independently of the flourescent lamp (2), and an adaptation to fluorescent lamps (2) of arbitrary configuration can be undertaken without difficulty.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2002
    Assignee: Mannesmann VDO AG
    Inventor: Heinrich Noll
  • Patent number: 6341879
    Abstract: The present invention features a system for uniformly distributing luminance and a high degree of collimation from a back light module for a flat-panel, liquid crystal display (LCD). A constant and uniform luminance output of the back light module is obtained through appropriate selection of lamps, geometry and optical components. An appropriate balance of lamps, lamp spacing, reflective light back plane, and diffuser and collimating optics are chosen to produce a high brightness back light module with very high intensity output over very large surfaces. Variations in intensity over the illuminated area are minimized using light recycling in conjunction with the collimating optics. Optimum geometries are determined for the purpose of maximizing light output at high efficiencies, while minimizing luminance gradients across the display. Finally, a precise collimator eliminates light beyond a defined angle, as required in a tiled, flat-panel LCD.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2002
    Assignee: Rainbow Displays, Inc.
    Inventors: Dean W. Skinner, Lawrence T. Guzowski
  • Publication number: 20020001190
    Abstract: A lighting apparatus for use with a microphone and a sound mixing system wherein each microphone has an associated channel located in the sound mixing system. Each microphone has a lighting means that assigns a particular color to that particular microphone and each channel has the same color associated with it as the color identifying the microphone. The color coding of the microphone and the channel allow for both to be visually identified. The apparatus has an audio connector for connecting the lighting apparatus to the microphone; a light source connected to the audio connector; a holder means for holding the light source; a power conductor for providing a pathway for power to the apparatus; and a strain relief connector for preventing the power conductor from being strained when the microphone is in use. The apparatus allows the microphone to be identified visually by the color it emits.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2001
    Publication date: January 3, 2002
    Inventor: Samuel Steven Everett
  • Patent number: 6325526
    Abstract: Automotive internal lights have a molded housing defining an elongate recess and bus bars which integrally include lamp holders secured within the molded housing and adapted to hold a lamp therebetween. The lamp holders have a base exposed to irradiate heat from said lamp. Connector terminals and an earth terminal are secured within said molded housing. The bus bars also integrally have spaced-apart fixed contacts secured within the molded housing so as to establish respective surfaces flush with the housing but exposed to said elongate recess. A slide switch is moveable longitudinally within the recess between at least first and second positions, and carries a generally U-shaped movable contact member which is adapted to contact the exposed surfaces of the fixed contacts so as to turn the lamp held by the lamp holder on and off, respectively. The housing includes notches formed in the recess opposite to the exposed surfaces of the fixed contacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha T AN T
    Inventors: Hiroshi Yabata, Kouji Mikami
  • Patent number: 6318880
    Abstract: A double lamp table or floor lamp lighting system has a pair of compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) arranged vertically with a reflective septum in between. By selectively turning on one or both of the CFLs, down lighting, up lighting, or both up and down lighting is produced. The control system can also vary the light intensity from each CFL. The reflective septum insures that almost all the light produced by each lamp will be directed into the desired light distribution pattern which is selected and easily changed by the user. Planar compact fluorescent lamps, e.g. circular CFLs, particularly oriented horizontally, are preferable. CFLs provide energy efficiency. The lighting system may be designed for the home, hospitality, office or other environments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Michael J. Siminovitch, Erik R. Page
  • Publication number: 20010040805
    Abstract: A plurality of spaced ceiling mounted fixtures or other controllable electrical appliances have radiation detectors mounted within each fixture and wired internally of the fixture to a dimming circuit or to a ballast. The radiation detectors have sensitivity over a wide angle and have elongated plastic radiation conduction rods which extend to or beyond the plane of the lens of the fixture to be located free of shadow effects of reflections of the fixture lens. A flexible end light fiber optics can be used in place of the acrylic rods. A narrow beam radiation transmitter selectively illuminates one of the rods or end light fiber optics without illuminating the others. The dimming circuits or ballasts within the fixtures can be further controlled by external dimmers, occupancy sensors, timeclocks, photosensors and other types of input devices. The radiation detector and ballast can occupy a common housing and share the same power supply and circuit board.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Applicant: Lutron Electronics, Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Adam T. Lansing, Russell L. MacAdam, Noel Mayo, Scott C. Miller, Robert A. Reiss, Ian Rowbottom, Joel S. Spira
  • Patent number: 6308444
    Abstract: A light illuminated display board and a lampshade using a light refraction and reflection effect in laminated transparent acrylic plastic plates is disclosed. The plastic plates are precisely cut at their four edge surfaces to form specifically angled and segmented edge surfaces individually having two to five surface segments. At least one of opposite surfaces of each plastic plate is inscribed with desired letters, symbols, figures or a combination of them. The display board or the lampshade of this invention thus clearly displays the desired letters, symbols, figures or the combination of them on its display surface while illuminating them using a variety of color light beams.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Inventor: Kil Woong Ki
  • Publication number: 20010028565
    Abstract: A head light system for controlling a distribution pattern based on a vehicle condition, includes: alight set having a variable irradiation intensity; a lamp body accommodating the light unit; and a control unit for controlling, based on the condition of the vehicle, the irradiation intensity of the light set while the control unit keeps on the light set in a turn-on status.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2001
    Publication date: October 11, 2001
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Ishida
  • Patent number: 6270239
    Abstract: A fader wheel assembly for a lighting control console includes a fader wheel having a single hub mounted at an acute angle to the top wall of the console. The inclined orientation positions approximately half of smooth, rounded outer wall and rim surfaces above the console top wall in an arrangement that is comfortable for the user. A single bearing locates the wheel as well as a transducer that is supported essentially only by its attachment to the fader wheel. Resilient arms lightly hold the transducer in position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Assignee: Electronic Theatre Controls, Inc.
    Inventor: David C. Sund
  • Patent number: 6260992
    Abstract: A vehicle headlamp device is designed to provide the feeling that sufficient light quantity exists in the high beam (H-beam) mode despite the use of a single discharge light source. The headlamp can be produced at low cost and by simple construction without the need for installing an auxiliary reflective part on the reflective member. The vehicle headlamp device can include a discharge lamp light source, a switching device for switching between the high beam and low beam, and a lighting device which supplies electric power to the discharge lamp. The lighting device can be controlled such that the electric power supplied to the discharge lamp is increased only when the beam is switched to the H-beam mode by the switching device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Assignee: Stanley Electric Co., LTD
    Inventors: Toru Tanabe, Shinji Fukuwa
  • Patent number: 6238061
    Abstract: Emergency survival apparatus of a self-contained, portable, remote controlled, combination television receiver (TV), AM/FM radio receiver, clock, and electric lamp. The combination is powered by either a source of ordinary household alternating current or by a direct current source, such as a battery pack or motor vehicle battery. The lamp is provided with a dimmer switch, and the clock is provided with an alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Inventors: Roy L. McKenzie, Anthony Haynes
  • Patent number: 6238054
    Abstract: The invention relates to a lighting apparatus having a translucent, light-diffusing panel (1), with at least one aperture lamp (2,3) arranged along one edge, extending in a straight line, of the light-diffusing panel (1) and mounted to rotate about its cylindrical axis in a mounting (6,7) and having a screen (4,5) for the at least one aperture lamp (2,3). By rotating the at least one aperture lamp (2,3) about its axis, the light input into the translucent, light-diffusing panel (1) is influenced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: Patent-Treuhand-Gesellschaft fuer elektrishe Gluehlampen mbH
    Inventor: Gerhard Doell
  • Patent number: 6213615
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for adjusting the colour temperature in a liquid crystal display with background lighting. According to the invention, the liquid crystal display is lit by two or more background light lamps with different colour temperatures (LAMP 1, 2, 3, 4, 5), the colour temperature range of the background light is extended and better opportunities for adjusting the colour temperature by changing the pass rate of the light are provided. In a more advanced solution, background light lamps with different colour temperatures (LAMP 1, 2, 3, 4, 5) are switched on (S1) separately for setting the colour temperature of the display, and furthermore, the brightness of the background light lamps (LAMP 1, 2, 3, 4, 5) with different colour temperatures can be adjusted separately for setting the colour temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Assignee: Nokia Display Products Oy
    Inventor: Kimmo Siitari
  • Patent number: 6190025
    Abstract: An illumination device includes a housing and a multi-position switch for selecting various modes of operation. A security block is mounted to the housing adjacent the switch. The security block may be attached to the housing in at least two different orientations. In a first orientation, the security block prevents the switch from being in a position corresponding to certain modes (e.g., those which create a high intensity light beam). When positioned in a second orientation, the security block is attached to the housing but permits the switch to be in other or all positions, thereby permitting various modes of operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: Insight Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth S. Solinsky
  • Patent number: 6179446
    Abstract: An arc lamp lightsource module comprises a removable lamp unit including an arc lamp attached to two radial electrode heatsinks that are in turn disposed in an insulating sleeve housing. A chassis has a catch and a clip to lock down the removable lamp unit. An igniter is included to power the arc lamp. A single fan and an air plenum are disposed in the chassis and provide for a cooling airflow that is split between the igniter and the two radial electrode heatsinks. A pair of machine screws provide electrical contact to each of the two radial electrode heatsinks and that have crowned heads for a smooth contact surface. A printed circuit board (PCB) has springboard cutouts and electrical pads providing for a spring-pressure electrical contact between the igniter and the arc lamp through the pair of machine screws.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: EG&G ILC Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Kamran Sarmadi
  • Patent number: 6176605
    Abstract: The headlight unit has at least one low beam headlight and at least one high beam headlight. The headlight unit is constructed so that it fulfills the different sets of legal regulations for the high beam in both the U.S.A. and Europe. According to the regulations in the U.S.A. the high beam produced by the high beam headlight must have a maximum light intensity in the center of the high beam and at least one required light intensity on the opposing traffic side. The at least one required light intensity on the same traffic side is provided by the low beam propagated from the at least one low beam headlight. This low beam has an asymmetric light-dark boundary that is higher on the same traffic side than on the side of the opposing traffic. According to the European regulations a comparatively higher maximum light intensity is permitted in the center of the high beam and a comparatively lower light intensity is required in the lateral regions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2001
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Esref Altunay, Friedemann Schlienz
  • Patent number: 6145998
    Abstract: A demonstration display for light controls supports a number of lamps mounted behind translucent light transmitting panels each with a lighting control coupled thereto whereby the amount of light produced by the associated lamp is controlled by the setting of the controls. By operating the control, the user can vary the amount of light produced and appreciate the manner in which the control operates. The user can, by comparing various controls, select the one which meets his needs for installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Assignee: Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Carol Lynch, Kurt L. Haverkost
  • Patent number: 6139172
    Abstract: Interior vehicle intense local illumination of a target location of a vehicle interior is provided by an interior rearview mirror assembly incorporating a solid-state light source which emits light generally downwardly from the bottom of the assembly. Preferably, the solid-state light source consists of a grouping of multiple light emitting diodes. At least one light emitting diode preferably has a luminous intensity of at least 500 mcd when operated at a forward current of 20 mA, emits light with a dominant wavelength within the range of about 530 nm to about 680 nm, emits light having a color selected from green, orange, yellow, amber, reddish-orange, red and blue, is formed from a material including at least one of aluminum, indium, gallium arsenic and phosphorous, and may be connected by a series resistor to the vehicle ignition/battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Assignee: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventors: Brent J. Bos, Stephen J. Forbes, Roger L. Veldman
  • Patent number: 6129446
    Abstract: A light (1) for vehicles having a switch (2) and a pivotably mounted window (25) for illumination whose pivoting causes operation of the switch (2), is characterized in that the switch (2) has a contact lever (4) mounted in a pivotable fashion about an axis of rotation (3), with the contact lever (4) having an operation arm (5) extending in a first direction away from the axis of rotation (3) as well as a contact arm (6) extending in a second direction away from the axis of rotation (3), wherein the operation arm (5) has an operation region (7) having a first separation with respect to the axis of rotation (3) and the contact arm (6) has a contact region (8) having a second separation with respect to the axis of rotation (3), wherein the second separation is larger than the first separation and, by means of a directed motion of the operation arm (5) in the operation region (7), the contact lever (4) pivots about the axis of rotation (3) and the contact region (8) moves in such a fashion as to operate the swit
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Assignee: Sidler GmbH & Co.
    Inventor: Heinz Hornung
  • Patent number: 6129444
    Abstract: A backlight for a flat panel display includes a light-combining wedge which combines light from multiple light sources before sending it through the flat panel display, with the light-combining wedge receiving light from two lamps, with each of the lamps producing a different color of light. A control element is used to vary the luminance of one of the lamps relative to the other to allow for an adjustable mixing of colors and thus provides an adjustable white balance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Assignee: L-3 Communications Corporation
    Inventor: Keith Tognoni
  • Patent number: 6079843
    Abstract: A lighting apparatus for a barbecue grill including a common gas supply, a grill pit, a grilling surface, and grill control means for regulating a flow of gas from the gas supply, the lighting apparatus including: a lighting enclosure including: a mounting bracket secured within the grill pit and extending outwardly therefrom, and, substantially transparent front closure means for sufficiently sealing a front of the lighting enclosure; and, lighting means positioned within the lighting enclosure and being responsive to the grill control means for illuminating the grilling surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Inventors: Demetrio Latella, Nicholas Vila
  • Patent number: 6076937
    Abstract: An improved tool tray apparatus having an interior tool storage area, an upper peripheral edge portion, and a light emitting mechanism disposed around at-least a part of the upper peripheral edge portion. The light emitting mechanism improves the lighting conditions when working in poorly lighted environments. More particulary, the improved tool tray apparatus selectively illuminates the interior tool storage area of the tool tray, and the area around the upper peripheral edge portion of the tool tray to provide for a safer work environment. The light emitted by the illuminated tool tray apparatus of the invention may be controllably switched between different colors at a controllably varied intensity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Inventors: Keith Bernard Wood, Kevin Alan Nordberg
  • Patent number: 6076944
    Abstract: A horticulture lighting system with at least two light tubes mounted in opposite directions within a hollow column to produce a 360-degree field of substantially parallel radiant energy. The column is adapted with a cooling air flow across the light tubes and a protective lens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Inventor: David Nelosn Maranon
  • Patent number: 6076947
    Abstract: A visor with an illuminated vanity assembly comprising a base with a closable cover. A dimmer switch is provided on the base for controlling the light output of the illuminated vanity assembly. The dimmer switch comprises a slidable switch electrically coupling a light source contact and a resistor whereby the sliding of the switch relative to the resistor changes the resistance in the circuit to control the light output from the light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Assignee: Lear Donnelly Overhead Systems, LLC
    Inventor: Douglas C. Miller
  • Patent number: 6062706
    Abstract: Three primary colored flourescent bulbs are selectively dimmed according to a ratio which produces a desired color, and at a brightness as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Assignee: Light & Sound Design, Ltd.
    Inventor: Keith Owen
  • Patent number: 6027234
    Abstract: A light fixture with an actuator retained switch particularly adapted for surface mounting to a variety of supporting surfaces, e.g., the interior of a recreational vehicle, includes a housing, lens and mounting structure for suspending the switch within the housing. The mounting structure consists of a pair of mutually spaced internal walls which contain slots adapted to receive the edges of the switch. The switch is positioned between the two internal walls such that the operating member of the switch is in position to readily engage the switch actuator. Engagement of the switch operator and actuator serves to lock them together and retain both upon the housing. To operate the switch, the user manipulates the actuator, which is locked to the operating member of the switch, by sliding the actuator from side-to-side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Assignee: Tekonsha Engineering Company
    Inventor: Barry G. Austin
  • Patent number: 5980058
    Abstract: A modular lighting assembly is provided for a refrigerator which has a molded base plate carrying a light bulb, a light switch and electrical connectors between the light switch and light bulb. The light switch may be either a plunger type switch or other types of switch such as a magnetic switch. The light is positioned adjacent to the switch so as to avoid the necessity of having a wire harness extend within the refrigerator cabinet between those two components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Ronald W. Guess, Rex P. Mowery, Stoney Q. McGowan
  • Patent number: 5961201
    Abstract: A polychrome lighting device, including at least one light source for each one of the three primary colors and elements for adjusting the light sources, the adjustment elements being adapted to independently control the adjustment of the luminous intensity of the light sources in order to combine the light beams emitted by the sources into a light beam having the desired shade of color, remote control elements being also provided for setting, storing, and retrieving desired luminous intensity values of the light sources and therefore desired light colors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Assignee: Artemide S.p.A.
    Inventor: Ernesto Gismondi
  • Patent number: 5961204
    Abstract: A compact dimmable fluorescent lamp includes a dimming control ballast within a base which installs directly on an existing incandescent or other lighting fixture. The lamp mounts a fluorescent illumination element and includes an accessible dimmer control member connected to the dimming control ballast.In the preferred embodiment, a rotatable lamp globe both covers the fluorescent lamp and is coupled to the control element. The globe thus provides the dual functions of decoratively covering the fluorescent lamp tubes and serving as the dimmer control by rotating the globe to vary the amount of power that is supplied to the lamp. In other embodiments, a rotatable external annular ring extends substantially around the circumference of the lamp base and is connected to the dimming ballast control to serve as the dimmer control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Assignee: Pacific Scientific Company
    Inventors: Mark E. Martich, Thomas E. Beling, John M. Ossenmacher, Stephen C. McLeod
  • Patent number: 5951155
    Abstract: A light assembly comprises a fixed mounting plate on which there is positioned a variable resistor, a rotatable member including an arm engaging the variable resistor and a lamp subassembly pivotally mounted to the rotatable member and keyed to the rotatable member such when the lamp subassembly is rotated in a plane generally parallel to a lens associated with the lamp subassembly, the rotatable member moves with respect to the fixed mounting plate, thereby varying the resistance, which is coupled in series with a lamp contained within the lamp subassembly for varying the intensity of the illumination therefrom. In a preferred embodiment also, the lamp subassembly includes a lens having a knob associated therewith such that the lamp subassembly can be tilted and rotated for directing and varying the intensity of the illumination therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Assignee: Prince Corporation
    Inventor: Michael L. Lanser
  • Patent number: 5938321
    Abstract: Interior vehicle instrumentation and/or console lighting is provided by an interior rearview mirror assembly or interior lamp assembly incorporating a non-incandescent, directed, low level, low power, non-glare producing light emitting source. The source illuminates portions of the vehicle interior such as the instrumentation or controls in the instrument panel or console area. One or more of such light emitting sources is optionally mounted on or within the mirror case or mirror support separate from any conventional incandescent lamp or lamps which may be mounted in the mirror assembly to provide general interior lighting. Alternately, the light emitting source can be mounted on or within an interior vehicle lamp assembly such as a dome lamp, rail lamp, or the like. Preferably, the light emitting source is a solid state lamp such as a light emitting diode, is controlled via the ignition switch and/or a rheostat/dimmer switch, and most preferably provides a maximum illumination of about 0.2 to 4.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Assignee: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventors: Brent J. Bos, Stephen J. Forbes, Roger L. Veldman
  • Patent number: 5868491
    Abstract: A lamp especially adapted for use in or on a vehicle, and having an "on-off" switch actuable by movement of the lamp housing to eliminate the necessity of a separate switch component in the illuminating circuit or lamp structure for operating the lamp. The movement of the lamp housing insures that the contacts through which the lamp is illuminated do not become permanently joined, and are cleaned to enhance the operational reliability of the lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1999
    Inventor: Dennis G. Moore
  • Patent number: 5863111
    Abstract: A lamp with improved safety features to avoid fire and burn hazards. The lamp includes an electrical circuit having a thermostat connected in series with the bulb of the lamp. The thermostat is mounted in close proximity to the lamp's bulb and, upon the ambient air temperature in the vicinity of the thermostat reaching a predetermined temperature, the thermostat effectively opens the electrical circuit, shutting the lamp off. Once power is turned off for a period of time, the thermostat resets and the lamp may be operated again. A protective guard is positioned over at least a portion of the bulb of the lamp to prevent accidental burning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1999
    Assignee: Holmes Products Corp.
    Inventors: Tom Turner, Robert J. Livergood
  • Patent number: 5791767
    Abstract: A semiconductor exposure device having excellent throughput using a mercury lamp as an exposure light source. The mercury lamp is capable of providing an efficient i-ray output, with a small i-ray half width value, allowing correction of chromatic aberration. The semiconductor exposure device is further provided with an illumination optical system for illuminating a target surface and a projection optical system for projecting the image on the target surface. The illumination optical system is provided with the mercury lamp, an optical integrator, an optical system for guiding a flux of light emitted from the mercury lamp to the optical integrator and a condenser lens for converging the light from the optical integrator. The semiconductor exposure device is provided with a power source and an associated control circuit for supplying an electric current to the mercury lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Assignee: Nikon Corporation
    Inventors: Osamu Inoue, Kiyotada Nakamura, Takashi Mori, Tetsuo Kikuchi
  • Patent number: 5775800
    Abstract: An illuminating device comprises a base dimensioned to fit into the receiving cavity of an article. The base is provided therein with a threaded portion, a battery compartment, a lighting compartment, a first circular surface located between the threaded portion and the battery compartment, and a second circular surface located between the battery compartment and the lighting compartment. A light-emitting body is located in the lighting compartment and is provided with a first pin in contact with a battery set located in the battery compartment, and a second pin extending to locate on the first circular surface. A rotary switch is engaged with the threaded portion of the base and is provided with a conduction piece and an elastic conduction body located between the conduction piece and the battery set. The rotary switch is rotated to cause the conduction piece to remain in contact with the second pin so as to bring about the illuminating effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Inventor: Frank Hsieh
  • Patent number: 5758942
    Abstract: An illumination subsystem which is used in conjunction with a mechanical vision system and which has a plurality of intensity adjustable monochromatic light sources, at least two of which are of different wavelength illumination. An oblique illumination assembly is positioned off to the side of the video camera and is pointed at the subject to be viewed. A direct illumination assembly is positioned within the light path of the lens of the camera to facilitate direct illumination of the subject. The intensity of the emitters as well as there colors can be adjusted to provided optimum recognition for the mechanical vision system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1998
    Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Rich Fogal, Michael B. Ball, Mike Bettinger
  • Patent number: 5722755
    Abstract: This invention provides an improved illumination device (10) which provides light fluxes with continuously variable spectral content and luminosity. The illumination device (10) includes a power supply (20) which is contained in a housing (24) which has a front face (28). Light sources (30a, 30b & 30c) are mounted on the front face (28) of the housing (24) and are connected to the power supply (20). The light sources (30a, 30b & 30c) are disposed to emit light fluxes substantially in the direction (38) of a selected object in front of the illumination device (10). The illumination device (10) also includes a color screen (40a, 40b and 40c) associated with each light source (30a, 30b and 30c).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1998
    Inventor: Dennis R. Slape
  • Patent number: 5697693
    Abstract: A switch mounting system includes a switch and housing structure and a method of assembling one to another. The housing has at least one keyed aperture for receiving a post of a switch body which is inserted into the keyed aperture and subsequently shifted into a final, aligned position during installation. The switch includes a switch actuator which is aligned with an aperture in the housing once shifted to the installed position. A switch actuating button is then extended through the aperture from the side opposite the housing from the switch body and locks onto the actuator member for locking the switch in the installed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1997
    Assignee: Prince Corporation
    Inventors: Michael H. Wittkopp, Jr., Christopher T. Nelson
  • Patent number: 5676459
    Abstract: A door-mounted vibration-tolerant lamp assembly comprising: a brace for mounting the lamp assembly to an exterior surface of a door, the door mounting brace having a body section and at least one mounting bracket disposed outwardly from the body section; an elastic mount having a first and second mounting bracket, wherein the first mounting bracket is affixed to the mounting bracket of the door mounting brace and the second mounting bracket is capable of supporting a lamp thereon; at least one first resilient pad disposed between the first mounting bracket of the elastic mount and the mounting bracket of the door mounting brace such that the resilient pad absorbs a substantial amount of the vibration that is generated when the door is moved to a closed position; and at least one second resilient pad disposed on the elastic mount in closer proximity to the second mounting bracket than to the first mounting bracket such that the second resilient pad acts to dampen movement of the lamp and the elastic mount when
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1997
    Assignee: Cleveland Range, Inc.
    Inventors: James P. Bedford, David Stuart Schwerzler