Plural Separate Reflectors Or Separate Sections Patents (Class 362/346)
  • Patent number: 7029156
    Abstract: An opposed reflecting mirror is provided so as to face a light source. The opposed reflecting mirror is configured to reflect light rays, emitted from the light source, so as to allow the reflected light rays to advance in a predetermined direction. A light guide body having a plurality of reflecting surfaces is provided to permit the incidence of light rays supplied from the opposed reflecting mirror and to reflect the incident light rays. The plurality of reflecting surfaces are located at different positions in a sliding split manner along the direction of light rays supplied from the opposed reflecting mirror. By virtue of this construction, a light emitting apparatus can be provided in which, while making the best use of a feature of LED, i.e., a small thickness, impressive illumination of an elongated shape by one light emitting device and high external emission efficiency can be realized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshinobu Suehiro, Akihiro Misawa, Osamu Yamanaka, Toshinori Takahashi, Hisatoshi Ota
  • Patent number: 7020368
    Abstract: An optical coupling element for use in large numerical aperture collecting and condensing systems. The optical coupling element includes a curved surface such as a lens at the output of a tapered light pipe (TLP). The TLP in combination with the curved surface alters the divergence angle and the area of the light exiting the curved surface. Electromagnetic radiation emitted by a source is collected and focused onto a target by positioning the source of electromagnetic radiation substantially at a first focal point of a primary reflector so that the primary reflector produces rays of radiation reflected from the primary reflector that converge at a second focal point of the secondary reflector. The optical coupling element is positioned so that its input end is substantially proximate with the second focal point of the secondary reflector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: Wavien, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth K. Li
  • Patent number: 7014341
    Abstract: Functional yet decorative luminaires intended to create distinctive environments within specific areas of a space in which one or more luminaires are used, the luminaires of the invention visually tie to architectural elements of the space by providing a customizable glow of color surrounding a typically white light that acts to illuminate the space functionally. A downlighting luminaire configured according to the invention as one example is typically configured to utilize two separate reflectors, usually reflectors having concave reflective surfaces and being mounted concentrically within a housing, an inner reflector directing light centrally through an aperture of the luminaire with the light so directed typically being white light useful for illumination intended to facilitate usual activities within the space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: Acuity Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Leslie Charles King, Carl T. Gould, Chester G. Vier
  • Patent number: 7011419
    Abstract: A technique for changing the cross-sectional profile of a beam of light from, for example, circular or elliptical to thin involves dividing the beam of light into cross-sectional portions, rotating the cross-sectional portions, and then concatenating the rotated cross-sectional portions to form a thin beam. The resulting thin beam has a long dimension that is formed by the concatenation of the cross-sectional portions of the original beam. A device for changing the cross-sectional profile of a beam of light may be fabricated with silicon optical bench technologies or other molding technologies. The device includes facets that divide a beam of light into cross-sectional portions, rotate the cross-sectional portions, and then concatenate the rotated cross-sectional portions to form a thin beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Inventors: Russell Wayne Gruhlke, Susan Hunter
  • Patent number: 7011434
    Abstract: A photon concentrator includes an imaging photon concentrator concentrating photons from a source to an image point and a non-imaging photon concentrator. The non-imaging photon concentrator (NIPC) has an entry aperture coupling to the imaging photon concentrator near the image point. The NIPC also includes an exit aperture wherein the entry aperture is larger than the exit aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventor: Michael A Pate
  • Patent number: 7008094
    Abstract: A vehicle light can include a light source, a major reflecting surface, a projection lens, and a shutter. A first reflecting surface of an ellipse group reflecting surface preferably has a first focus on the light source and a second focus, capable of being inserted in or removed from an optical path from the light source to a second fixed reflecting surface. A first fixed reflecting surface of a parabolic group reflecting surface can include a focus on the second focus of the first reflecting surface, and at least two second reflecting surface elements. The second fixed reflecting surface can include a first focus on the light source and at least two third reflecting surface elements for reflecting light rays that have traveled an optical path from the light source thereto without being reflected by the first reflecting surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Assignee: Stanley Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hitoshi Taniuchi
  • Patent number: 7008079
    Abstract: A composite reflecting surface for a linear LED array incorporates a truncated circular parabolic reflector surrounding each LED and a trough axially above the circular parabolic reflectors defined between parallel longitudinal reflecting surfaces. The short circular parabolic reflectors collimate wide angle light from the LED into a direction parallel to the LED optical axis. The longitudinal reflecting surfaces are linear parabolic surfaces altered to improve the vertical spread of the light radiation pattern. Longitudinal convex ribs project inwardly from the basic linear parabolic shape. The convex shape of the ribs “sprays” the light incident upon it in a vertically spread pattern. The composite reflecting surface makes use of light from a linear array of LEDs that would otherwise be wasted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Assignee: Whelen Engineering Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Todd J. Smith
  • Patent number: 7001039
    Abstract: A retrofit unit which is used for replacing conventional incandescent light bulbs with fluorescent light bulbs in existing lighting fixtures of the ceiling or wall mounted type.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Inventor: Truman Aubrey
  • Patent number: 7001048
    Abstract: A reflection-diffusion structure adopted for a light guide plate has a left wall, a right wall, and a bottom wall, which all are made of reflection materials. A top wall connects to the bottom wall, the left wall and the right wall, and a receiving cavity is formed by the left wall, the right wall, the top wall and the bottom wall. The top wall has a size-adjustable diffusion area made of a diffusion material. The left wall, the right wall, the top wall and the bottom wall are made integrally in one piece. The reflection material and the diffusion material are made integrally in one piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Inventor: Heng Sheng Kuo
  • Patent number: 6991359
    Abstract: A surface light source (3, 4, 5) includes a light guide plate (32, 42, 52), which defines an incident surface (321, 421, 521), an emitting surface and a bottom surface (323, 423, 523) opposite to the emitting surface; and a light source (31, 41, 51) adjacent to the incident surface of the light guide plate for radiating light beams into the light guide plate through the incident surface. A multiplicity of generally rectangular dots (328, 428, 528) and generally circular dots (329, 429, 529) is formed on the bottom surface of the light guide plate. The rectangular and circular dots reflect and scatter the light beams in directions toward the emitting surface. The rectangular dots are distributed on the bottom surface corresponding to lower luminance areas of the light guide plate, so that the luminance over the whole emitting surface of the light guide plate is uniform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Charles Leu, Ga-Lane Chen, Tai-Cheng Yu
  • Patent number: 6986593
    Abstract: An LED or incandescent light source is positioned in a reflector arranged to reflect light from the LED or incandescent light source which is radiated from the LED or incandescent light source in a peripheral forward solid angle as defined by the reflector. A lens is disposed longitudinally forward of the LED or incandescent light source for focusing light into a predetermined pattern which is radiated from the LED or incandescent light source in a central forward solid angle as defined by the lens. The apparatus comprised of the combination projects a beam of light comprised of the light radiated in the central forward solid angle and peripheral forward solid angles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Illumination Management Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Greg Rhoads, Ronald Garrison Holder
  • Patent number: 6966662
    Abstract: A reflector having light diffusibility for suppressing a reflected image within a wide viewing angle range and having a particular brightness at a specific viewing angle range, and a reflective liquid crystal display device using the reflector, are provided. The reflector 1 comprises a plurality of light-reflective concave portions 3, which are formed on a surface S of a substrate, wherein each of the concave portions 3 is formed with a first curved surface A1 located at one peripheral portion S1 of the concave portion 3 and a second curved surface B1 located at the other peripheral portion S2 thereof, the deepest point D1 is located on the first curved surface A1, and the maximum value ?b1 of the absolute value of the second curved surface B1 to the surface S of the substrate is larger than that of the maximum value ?a1 of the absolute value of the first curved surface A1 to the surface S of the substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Assignee: Alps Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Katsumasa Yoshii, Chie Chikira
  • Patent number: 6966675
    Abstract: The present invention is concerned with a lighting module for a vehicle headlight for giving a light beam of the cut-off type, particularly one which is adapted to use with light-emitting diodes. The module has a second reflector having a substantially elliptical surface for reflecting light rays and at least one light source arranged close to the first focus of the first reflector. The module also includes a second reflector for producing the cut-off or dipped output beam, the focus of this reflector being arranged close to the second focus of the first reflector. The module further includes a third reflector or bender, having a reflective top face and being situated between the first and second reflectors. This third reflector has a cut-off edge arranged close to the second focus of the first reflector, whereby to form the cut-off within the light beam. The light source is a light-emitting diode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Assignee: Valeo Vision
    Inventor: Pierre Albou
  • Patent number: 6964506
    Abstract: A light reflector having a row of light reflecting segments separated by fold lines, wherein one segment is located at a top of the row and another segment is located at a bottom of the row. A pair of wings is connected at the sides of the row, each one of the wings including a plurality of light reflecting segments separated by fold lines, wherein at least some of the light reflecting segments of the row and at least some of the light reflecting segments of the wings form a shell-shaped arrangement wherein at least some light reflecting segments of the row and at least some light reflecting segments of the pair of wings are bent at their respective fold lines whereby the arrangement is generally curved along an imaginary line connecting the one segment and the another segment and generally curved along an imaginary line perpendicular to the first mentioned line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Assignee: Allied Lighting Systems, INC
    Inventors: Peter C. Sara, Steven C. Donner, Henry M. Avila
  • Patent number: 6955452
    Abstract: An illumination system using filament lamps including a filament lamp, a reflector having a first and second focal points, the filament lamp disposed proximate to the first focal point of the reflector to emit rays of electromagnetic radiation that reflect from the reflector and converge substantially at the second focal point, wherein a portion of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the filament lamp impinges directly on the reflector and a portion of the electromagnetic radiation does not impinge directly on the reflector and wherein the system further includes an additional reflector constructed and arranged to reflect at least part of the portion of the electromagnetic radiation that does not impinge directly on the reflector toward the reflector through the first focal point of the reflector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Assignee: Wavien, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth K. Li
  • Patent number: 6953272
    Abstract: A vehicle headlamp having a projector-type lamp unit that enhances a luminous intensity of a hot zone at the time of high beam irradiation is described. A first additional reflector is provided obliquely left-upward of an optical axis Ax, and a second additional reflector is provided obliquely right-downward of the optical axis Ax, between a reflector and a projection lens. An additional light distribution pattern is formed in a center area of a high beam distribution pattern by reflecting direct light, which has entered the first additional reflector from a light source, obliquely right-downward and then forward by the second additional reflector, at the time of high beam irradiation. A reflective surface of the first additional reflector is formed like an ellipsoid spherical surface having the second focus on the right side with respect to the optical axis A (the second reflector side).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Assignee: Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Michihiko Hayakawa, Michio Tsukamoto
  • Patent number: 6948832
    Abstract: A luminaire including a lamp, reflector, collimator and optional waveguide. The waveguide can be solid or hollow or include several serially-arranged total internal reflection (TIR) components for redirecting light that has entered the waveguide. In one embodiment, the TIR components are prisms, but are provided without metallized coatings thereby significantly reducing manufacturing costs. In another embodiment, components are arranged in a vertical orientation such that light is directed downward through a collimator or upward, either directly from the lamp or as a result of reflection from the reflector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Assignee: Honeywell International, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert J. Saccomanno, Ivan B. Steiner
  • Patent number: 6945671
    Abstract: A compact portable fluorescent lighting unit provides concentrated even coverage illumination for many visual arts, theater, studio or location applications. Beam width is conveniently user-adjustable without tools, typically in three steps: 60, 70 and 90 degrees. A pair of identical lighting cells are stacked one above the other; each cell can utilize any one of a variety of fluorescent lamps providing powerful illumination. Each cell has an efficient reflector and provision for beam width selection by varying the spacing of the lamp from the rear of the reflector via easily adjustable socket/lamp support brackets. A welded aluminum mounting yoke, with arms swivel-attached to opposite ends of the housing, can be set to any desired orientation for beam-aiming and locked in place to the housing by a user knob. The yoke can be affixed directly to building structure or mounted via a pipe or stand adaptor, optionally swivelled to provide a second beam-aiming axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Inventors: Toni F. Swarens, Anatoly Kudishevich, Milton L. Hedberg Jr.
  • Patent number: 6942367
    Abstract: A UV curing lamp is provided which includes a curved, reflective surface which redirects incident light toward a band-pass filter while bypassing the lamp. A heat sink is provided for the band-pass filter, the heat sink containing a woolen material such as aluminum wool. A portion of the light is reflected by the curved reflective surface and is transmitted through the band-pass filter and into the heat sink, the remainder of the light being reflected by the band-pass filter. The heat sink absorbs the light transmitted through the band-pass filter and dissipates the heat associated therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Tausch, Charles Alexander
  • Patent number: 6921188
    Abstract: A vehicle lamp emitting light to a lateral direction can include a simple construction to reduce design limitations, and can achieve desired light distribution characteristics by controlling the direction and intensity of light illuminated in a range covering the front and the side of the vehicle. The vehicle lamp preferably includes: a second reflecting surface for reflecting incident light from a light source to a predetermined direction; a third reflecting surface, arranged forward of the light source and backward of a projection lens and out of a main optical path, for reflecting light from the second reflecting surface toward front; and a fourth reflecting surface, arranged forward of the third reflecting surface and out of the main optical path, for reflecting light from the third reflecting surface to a lateral direction relative at least to a region of light emitted from the projection lens along the main optical path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Assignee: Stanley Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hitoshi Taniuchi
  • Patent number: 6918693
    Abstract: A light source device for an endoscope is provided. The light source device comprises a light source unit that supplies illumination light to an incident end face of a light guide member, which is laid inside an endoscope. The light source unit comprises a plurality of reflecting board members. Each reflecting board member has at least one light emitting diode. The plurality of reflecting board members are assembled into a concaved open polyhedron, so that the light emitted from the light emitting diodes are concentrated onto the incident end face of the light guide member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2005
    Assignee: PENTAX Corporation
    Inventors: Noriko Ota, Takashi Sato
  • Patent number: 6913378
    Abstract: A direct-lighting type back light unit includes a plurality of light sources for emitting light outward; a reflecting plate defining a plurality of curved reflecting recesses in which the light sources are respectively arranged. Each recess forms a first convex reflecting surface at a center of the recess, a second inclined reflecting surface formed at an edge of the recess and a third inclined reflecting surface formed at the edge and extending from the second reflecting surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Assignee: Quanta Display Incorporation
    Inventor: Yi-Chun Ho
  • Patent number: 6910792
    Abstract: A vehicular headlamp which radiates a beam forward in a predetermined low-beam light distribution pattern using a projection-type lamp unit and with which visibility to the sides of a vehicle is improved without having a significant effect on the formation of the low-beam light distribution pattern. A first additional reflector for reflecting light from a discharge light source of a discharge bulb forward is disposed below a discharge bulb of the projection-type lamp unit. A second additional reflector for reflecting reflected light from the first additional reflector to one side is provided in front of the first additional reflector. An additional light distribution pattern that partially overlaps a side portion of the low-beam light distribution pattern is formed, thereby providing improved illumination of road zones to the sides of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2005
    Assignee: Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kenichi Takada, Koji Okawa
  • Patent number: 6910791
    Abstract: A headlight having an ellipse group reflecting surface as a main reflecting surface and a projection lens further includes a second reflecting surface, a third reflecting surface, and a ring-shaped lens. Direct light from a light source reaching to a space between the main reflecting surface and the projection lens is reflected by the second reflecting surface backward. The reflected light from the second reflecting surface is further reflected by the third reflecting surface, and then is adjusted with the ring-shaped lens. Light directly emitted from the light source and being ineffective in the conventional headlight can be collected using the second and third reflecting surfaces, and forwarded in an illumination direction by passing through the ring-shape lens such that the shape of the light is controlled to provide an appropriate shape, thereby contributing to the formation of light distribution characteristics and increase in the light intensity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2005
    Assignee: Stanley Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Takashi Futami
  • Patent number: 6908212
    Abstract: A fluorescent light fixture is provided for retrofitting light fixtures utilizing conventional fluorescent lamps into light fixtures utilizing energy efficient fluorescent lamps. The fluorescent light fixture is a single unit comprising a reflector, socket plates at each end, lamp sockets, ballast, ballast cover and wiring. The reflector may be slidably mounted onto the socket plates to allow the retrofit to expand and contract. The fluorescent light fixture may include a attachment which temporarily secures the fluorescent light fixture within a light fixture shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Inventor: Michael Schultz
  • Patent number: 6898353
    Abstract: An optical coupling element for use in large numerical aperture collecting and condensing systems. The optical coupling element includes a curved surface such as a lens at the output of a tapered light pipe (TLP). The TLP in combination with the curved surface alters the divergence angle and the area of the light exiting the curved surface. Electromagnetic radiation emitted by a source is collected and focused onto a target by positioning the source of electromagnetic radiation substantially at a first focal point of a primary reflector so that the primary reflector produces rays of radiation reflected from the primary reflector that converge at a second focal point of the secondary reflector. The optical coupling element is positioned so that its input end is substantially proximate with the second focal point of the secondary reflector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Wavien, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth K. Li
  • Patent number: 6893148
    Abstract: A motor vehicle headlight has a light source cooperating with optical means to produce a beam which is generally spread widthwise. The optical means, such as a reflector, are adapted to produce in the beam two separate zones of maximum light intensity. The headlight gives two alternative functions, such as a short range lighting function for negotiating bends, and a foglight function, without the need for any movable optical components. The disclosure is also directed to a pair of vehicle lights so adapted, one on the right and one on the left of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Assignee: Valeo Vision
    Inventors: Eric Blusseau, Antoine De Lamberterie
  • Patent number: 6893140
    Abstract: A flashlight is disclosed which includes a housing adapted to receive one or more battery cells and having a transparent lens on a forward end thereof. An LED light source connected to the cell is utilized in conjunction with collimating optics positioned adjacent the LED to refract rays of light from the LED forwardly. A first paraboloid reflector having a concave reflective surface is positioned within said housing to receive rays of light from the collimating optics and to reflect the rays rearwardly and a second paraboloid reflector having a concave reflective surface is positioned within said housing to receive rays of light reflected rearwardly from the first paraboloid reflector and to further reflect the rays forwardly through the transparent lens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Assignee: W. T. Storey, Inc.
    Inventors: William T. Storey, Brian E. Probst, Joseph E. Gorrie
  • Patent number: 6883935
    Abstract: A reflector holder retains a reflector that has a hole in one of its ends. The holder includes a base with a quick-connect connector extending from the base. In one version, the quick-connect connector includes a semi-arcuate flange member that extends from the base. The member has a pair of edges extending between the base and the outward end of the flange member and a mid-portion between the edges. The member also has a concave side and a convex side. A connection post extends from the mid-portion of the concave side of the end of the member away from the base, and terminates in an outward end. A pair of lock ears extend from the outward end of the connection post, with one ear extending toward each of the edges of the flange member. Each lock ear terminates in a locking end that is spaced from one of the edges so as to define a gap between the locking end and edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Inventor: Leon Lassovsky
  • Patent number: 6871991
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a dipped headlight for a motor vehicle, comprising a light source cooperating with a mirror in order to form an illuminating beam with a V-shaped cut-off, the mirror comprising four regions arranged side by side, a first region giving the beam its width, a second region giving the beam its range under the horizontal part of the cut-off, a third region giving the beam its range under the inclined part of the cut-off, and a fourth part giving the beam its range along the longitudinal axis of the vehicle. According to the invention, each region is joined to the adjacent region without a step, the first region of the mirror has a reflecting surface which strongly spreads the light in the lateral direction, and the second and third regions are located on the same side of the light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Assignee: Valeo Vision
    Inventor: Hervé Perrin
  • Patent number: 6866408
    Abstract: A motor vehicle headlamp comprises a light source, a reflector possessing first and second focal regions, and a converging lens. The source is located in the first focal region and the lens possesses a focus situated in the second focal region. The reflector and the lens have axes which are essentially coincident defining the optical axis of the headlamp. The headlamp is intended to generate a light beam exhibiting high intensity along the optical axis and a limited extension below the optical axis. A first area of the reflector extending in the vicinity of an axial vertical plane generates, in a focal plane of the lens, images of the source the center which is substantially offset with respect to the focus of the lens, while two second areas of the reflector located on either side of said first area generate, in the same focal plane, images of the source the centers of which pass close to or onto the focus of the lens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Assignee: Valeo Vision
    Inventor: Pierre Albou
  • Patent number: 6863418
    Abstract: Provided is a projector light source which can effectively project a light beam having a sufficient volume from a lamp as a light source, and which is highly accurate and is excellent in workability. The projector light source comprising an arc tube for emitting a light beam; and a concave reflector including a hold part for holding the arc tube, and having a concave reflection surface for reflecting the light beam from the arc tube so that the light beam outgoes through an opening of the reflector, the concave reflector comprising a first reflector located in the vicinity of the hold part for holding the light emitting tube, and second reflector located in a part other than the hold part, and made of a material different from that of the first reflector. Further, the first reflector is made of heat-resistant glass, and the second reflector is made a material containing a heat-resistant organic material having a thermal deformation temperature which is lower than that of the heat-resistant glass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Nobuo Masuoka, Koji Hirata, Ryuji Kurihara, Yoshie Kodera
  • Patent number: 6863427
    Abstract: A motor vehicle headlamp comprises a source, a mirror possessing first and second focal regions, and a converging lens. The source is located in the first focal region and the lens possesses a focus situated in the second focal region. The mirror and the lens have axes which are essentially coincident defining an optical axis of the headlamp, and the headlamp further includes a mask located in the region of the focus of the lens, in order to project a beam an upper cut-off of which is defined by said mask. Finally, the mirror concentrates the light, in the vertical direction, towards a vertical focusing baseline extending substantially horizontally and transversely to the optical axis and passing close to the focus of the lens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: Valeo Vision
    Inventor: Pierre Albou
  • Patent number: 6854864
    Abstract: An optical device for increasing the brightness of electromagnetic radiation emitted by a source by folding the electromagnetic radiation back on itself. The source of electromagnetic radiation has a first width, a first input end of a first light pipe has a second width, and a second input end of a second light pipe has a third width. An output end of the first light pipe may be reflective; while an output end of the second light pipe may be transmissive. The source is located substantially proximate to a first focal point of a reflector to produce rays of radiation that reflect from the reflector and substantially converge at a second focal point; and the input ends of the first and second light pipes are located proximate to the second focal point to collect the electromagnetic radiation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: Cogent Light Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth K. Li
  • Patent number: 6851835
    Abstract: A light assembly is configured to produce a large area of light emission from an LED light source. The LED light source is mounted within a concave reflector and oriented to face the rear of the reflector. A compound reflecting surface diverts axial light from the LED away from the axis of the reflector to avoid blockage by the LED support structure. A peripheral reflecting surface redirects the diverted light. The LED light source may be a linear array of LEDs aligned with a linear focal axis of the reflector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: Whelen Engineering Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Todd J. Smith, Jon H. Lyons
  • Patent number: 6851839
    Abstract: A lamp assembly comprising a transparent body having a front surface and a back surface, the back surface having at least one convex curved portion, each such convex curved portion having at least one axis perpendicular to the front surface, and an internally reflective curved surface facing the front surface of the transparent body, a cavity in each convex curved portion, having sidewalls and a bottom, adapted to receive a light emitting source, and a reflective surface at the bottom of each cavity oriented so that light emitted by the light emitting source is reflected by the reflective surface onto the internally reflective curved surface of the convex curved portion. In some embodiments, the internally reflective curved surface also provides one or more electrical circuits for one or more light emitting sources.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: Meridian Automotive Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian J. Malone, Todd M. Nykerk, Timothy J. Kelly
  • Patent number: 6846101
    Abstract: LED lamp assembly particularly adapted for automotive applications that utilizes one or more standard replaceable LED bulbs with changeable optics to make multiple beam patterns. Preferably the optic is molded and easily replaced. An electric module is mounted directly under the LED to facilitate the electrical connection and provide good thermal contact. The LED light source(s) and interchangeable optic are positioned and sealed in the base of a main reflector or the vehicle hull by means well known to those skilled in the art.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Assignee: Osram Sylvania Inc.
    Inventor: Charles M. Coushaine
  • Patent number: 6846100
    Abstract: A lighting fixture is configured such that it comprises at least one light source, a first reflecting surface which reflects light from the light source or sources to change it into parallel light, one intermediate reflecting surface which reflects parallel light from the first reflecting surface toward the second reflecting surface, a second reflecting surface which reflects light reflected by the intermediate reflecting surface forward and one lens provided forwardly of the second reflecting surface and such that the light source is provided outside the lens in relation to the direction of the optical axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Inventors: Norifumi Imazeki, Takashi Nakanishi, Takeaki Okamura, Nobuyuki Suzuki, Hirokuni Osugi, Kentaro Hayashi
  • Patent number: 6834984
    Abstract: A UV curing lamp is provided which includes a curved and reflective surface which may be a cold mirror and may redirect incident UV light toward a band-pass filter. The UV light may be reflected by the curved, reflective surface and transmitted through the band-pass filter whereas the IR and visible light may pass through the curved, reflective surface. The UV, IR, and visible light reflected by shutters and direct UV, IR, and visible light from the lamp are separated by the band-pass filter which transmits the UV light and reflects the IR and visible light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Assignee: Delaware Captial Formation, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Tausch, Charles Alexander
  • Patent number: 6832843
    Abstract: An illumination system including at least one reflector subtending an angle with respect to a location on a surface of an article, and first and second light sources, the first and second light sources each providing a light output, the light outputs from both of the first and second light sources being directed to impinge on the location on the surface of an article within the angle, at least one of the light outputs being reflected by the reflector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2004
    Assignee: Orbotech, Ltd.
    Inventors: Avraham Adler, Moshe Ben Shlomo
  • Patent number: 6829412
    Abstract: An optical coupling element for use in large numerical aperture collecting and condensing systems. The optical coupling element includes a curved surface such as a lens at the output of a tapered light pipe (TLP). The TLP in combination with the curved surface alters the divergence angle and the area of the light exiting the curved surface. Electromagnetic radiation emitted by a source is collected and focused onto a target by positioning the source of electromagnetic radiation substantially at a first focal point of a primary reflector so that the primary reflector produces rays of radiation reflected from the primary reflector that converge at a second focal point of the secondary reflector. The optical coupling element is positioned so that its input end is substantially proximate with the second focal point of the secondary reflector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: Wavien, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth K. Li
  • Publication number: 20040240223
    Abstract: Headlight for a motor vehicle comprising a reflector and a light source (S) running transversely to the optical axis (Y-Y) of the reflector and placed near the focal point of the reflector. The transverse light source (S) is placed near the internal focal point (Fi) of an ellipsoidal reflector (R1). The wall of the ellipsoidal reflector has a cutout (1) situated on one side of the plane passing through the geometric axis of the light source (S) and parallel to the optical axis (Y-Y) of the ellipsoidal reflector. A lens (2) with an optical axis parallel to or coincident with that of the ellipsoidal reflector (R1) is placed in front of this reflector, the focal point (3) of the lens being close to the external focal point (Fe) of the ellipsoidal reflector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 24, 2003
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventors: Norbert Brun, Jean-Luc Meyrenaud, Kamislav Fadel, Xavier Helme-Guizon
  • Patent number: 6824301
    Abstract: A vehicular headlamp which provides a low-beam light distribution pattern having a horizontal cut-off line and an oblique cut-off line and which enhances distant visibility in the traveling line by assuring a sufficient amount of light in a hot zone, even if the height of a reflector is small. The reflecting surface of the reflector is configured to have first reflecting zones which reflect light so as to form a horizontal cut-off line, and second reflecting zones which reflect light so as to form an oblique cut-off line. The second reflecting zones Z2 are provided at two positions on right and left sides of the lamp optical axis Ax which are arranged diagonally with respect to the lamp optical axis Ax. The amount of light in a hot zone HZ is increased by superimposing light distribution patterns produced by the light reflected from each of the second reflecting zones.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Assignee: Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Toshiyuki Kinouchi
  • Patent number: 6811277
    Abstract: A vehicle lamp is constructed such that light exiting from an LED light source is converted into collimated light and such that the collimated light is reflected forward of the lamp by means of a reflector. At that time, the reflector portion has a stepwise reflection surface in which there are alternately formed a plurality of light incidence sections into which the collimated light enter and a plurality of intermediate sections into which no collimated light enters. Further, each of the intermediate sections is formed from an irregular surface formed so as to recess rearward of the lamp with respect to a plane parallel to the direction of radiation of the collimated light. By means of the irregular surface, stray light or the like included in the collimated light exiting from the optical member is reflected forward of the lamp. As a result, when the lamp is viewed from the front, the light incidence sections appear to glare, resembling spread spots, and the intermediate sections also appear to glare.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yasuyuki Amano
  • Patent number: 6796695
    Abstract: A vehicular lamp utilizing an indirect lighting technique employing a plurality of LED light sources and which has a slim profile and improved appearance when lit. A reflector is provided which is composed of a plurality of small reflectors having a serrated shape and arranged in a linear array extending in the lateral direction. A LED light source is provided in a space to the side of each of the small reflectors, and light is radiated onto the reflecting surface of the adjacent small reflector. With this configuration, there is no need of providing a special cover member to hide the LED light sources when viewed from the front of the lamp. The small reflectors may also be arranged in a rectilinear array to achieve a uniformly illuminated generally planar surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kazunori Natsume
  • Patent number: 6796694
    Abstract: A vehicular signal lamp providing a uniformly bright appearance even when the lamp is observed in a lateral direction. A reflecting surface of a reflector is composed of a plurality of reflecting elements for diffusing and reflecting in right and left directions the light from a light source bulb. A left direction maximum diffusion angle of the respective reflecting elements is set to a smaller value the nearer the reflecting element is located to the left end portion of the reflecting surface, and a right direction maximum diffusion angle R of the respective reflecting elements is set to a smaller value the nearer the reflecting element is located to the right end portion of the reflecting surface. Thereby, when the light is observed in a lateral direction by moving the viewing position from the light front direction to the right or left, the entire reflecting surface appears bright within a certain light viewing angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kazunori Natsume
  • Publication number: 20040184269
    Abstract: The present invention comprises a method of enhancing illumination by a variety of lamp types through the use of reflective technologies, for example, replacement of expensive high intensity density or mercury vapor lamps with low wattage flourescent tubes having at least one and in some cases, up to three reflective surfaces for focusing otherwise lost light toward a target illumination area. Further, the placement of light sources at the focal point of said reflective surfaces aids in optimizing the amount of light focused in a desired direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2003
    Publication date: September 23, 2004
    Inventor: Randal D. Walton
  • Patent number: 6793368
    Abstract: A luminaire (1) has means for holding and for electrically connecting a tube-like lamp (2) and a back reflector (4), extending over the length of the lamp (2), which is provided for the purpose of reflecting a part of the light emitted from the lamp (1) counter to a certain emission direction. In the back reflector there are provided through-openings (5) which are provided for the purpose of allowing a part of the light emitted from the lamp (2) to pass through in the emission direction, whereby pot reflectors (6) adjoin onto the through-openings (5) in the back reflector (4) in the emission direction. The luminaire distinguishes itself through the variety of the illumination effects which can be achieved therewith, which however have no effect on the functionality of the luminaire for room illumination or for the illumination of workplaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: Zumtobel Staff GmbH
    Inventor: Gerald Ladstätter
  • Patent number: 6793375
    Abstract: A surface mountable strobe incorporates an elongated light source and a multi-element reflector. The reflector includes a first generally circular partial parabolic reflector element with an axis of rotation which corresponds to an axis of symmetry of the source. The first reflector element produces a spike of on-axis radiant energy which substantially exceeds the off-axis output profile. A plurality of spaced apart arcuate reflector elements provides output light profiles in horizontal and vertical planes which intersect at or near the axis of the source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: Honeywell International, Inc.
    Inventor: Douglas J. Anderson
  • Patent number: 6793372
    Abstract: The present invention comprises a light assembly with LESDs mounted opposite to the reflective side of a reflector. A plurality of reflectors are arranged in an overlapping fashion such that the light emitted from the LESD of one reflector is directed to the reflective surface of an underlying reflector. In this fashion, a number of LESDs may be incorporated into a lighting device in a variety of patterns while maintaining the LESDs and their mountings hidden from view.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: Guide Corporation
    Inventors: Kathryn M. Wehner, David L. Rhorer