Abstract: Interior light for vehicles with a reading mode in which the beam can be directed toward either the driver or the front-seat passenger as desired. The light has an opaque screen (13) in the path of the rays of light between the bulb (6) and the reflector (1). The screen has a cutout (15). The reflector (1) consists of at least two paraboloid reflecting surfaces (8 and 9) with optical axes (10 and 11) that meet at an angle .alpha.. The mask (13) is adjusted so that the cutout (15) directs the light against one or the other of the reflecting surfaces (8 or 9).

Abstract: A task lighting system is disclosed including a reflector which supports a light source such as a fluorescent light tube. An at least translucent, member covers the light source and extends along its entire length. A variable light transmission pattern is carried by the elongated tube. The light transmission pattern has a density which is directly proportional to the brightness levels of the light source, both longitudinally and circumferentially thereof. The variable light transmission pattern is defined by a plurality of opaque markings and is positionable within the reflector so that the light source has an apparent uniform brightness. The variable light transmission pattern controls veiling reflections which can occur when an observer views a task having a given specularity. The member is movable with respect to the light source to vary the brightness of the luminaire.

Abstract: A frustoconical reflector and socket assembly for halide and like lights especially adapted for promoting growth of plants in a greenhouse environment and the like, the light reflecting surface of the reflector cone being at an angle from about 76.degree. to about 64.degree. and preferably about 68.degree. with respect to the center axis of the cone, and preferably being adjustable as by means of selective interconnection of holes along one radial edge of the cone and selected holes along the other radial edge thereof, and with adjustable counterweight means being provided generally opposite the radially cut edges of the cone to counterbalance the weight of the overlapping segment of the cone for any given selected cone angle.

Abstract: Two nested downwardly diverging frustoconical lamp shades are supported at their upper ends by a base which also supports a lamp bulb. The shades have openings therein which, when aligned by adjustment of one of the shades, passes a beam of light from the bulb to a reading or like area. The intensity of illumination can be controlled by changing the extent of overlapping of the openings. Shade elements extend across the lower ends of the shades and have openings therein. One of the shade elements is adjustable relative to the other to move the openings therein in and out of register with the openings in the other element whereby to vary the intensity of illumination of light projected downwardly by the lamp bulb.

Abstract: A device for adjusting the angular disposition of a first object with respect to a plane. The first object is adjustably attached to a second object resting on said plane. The adjustment occurs when there is a change in the angular disposition between the second object and the plane. Two freely rotatable members are attached to the first object adjacent each other. Both members are rotatable in a direction parallel to the angle to be adjusted between the first object and the plane, and each member has a rotary rest position determined by its respective center of gravity. During the change in the angular disposition between the second object and the plane, one of the two members is rotationally fixed with respect to the second object and is rotated from its rest position according to the change in the angular disposition between the second object and the plane. The other of the two members remains in its rest position during the change in the angular disposition between the second member and the plane.

Abstract: A photographic flash device comprising a first mechanism for varying the angle of divergence of a flashed light and a second mechanism for varying the direction of the flashed light. The first variable mechanism is provided with a first body having a light source, a second body, a first slidable molding which has an optical panel to cover the front of the light source, a second slidable molding which surrounds the first slidable molding, and detent means which control slide movement of the first slidable molding and connects the first slidable molding with the first body. The second variable mechanism changes the direction of the flashed light from the light source by rotatably connecting the moldings to an additional body.