Curved Surface Patents (Class 362/361)
  • Patent number: 7066608
    Abstract: A lamp assembly having a reflector (102) holding a lamp element, or burner (104). The reflector (102) typically is an ellipse, with the burner arc positioned at one foci of the ellipse. A reflector extension (108) is designed to mate to the reflector (102). The reflector extension (108) has a first open end toward the reflector (102). The first open end typically is in contact with the reflector (102) to form a seal around the perimeter preventing glass shards from escaping between the reflector (102) and reflector extension (108). Preferably, the reflector extension (108) contacts the reflector (102) around the perimeter of the reflector (102). The second end of the reflector extension (108) also is open to allow the light from the arc to exit the reflector extension (108). A transparent plate (110) placed across this second open end prevents glass from leaving the reflector extension (108).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: Texas Instruments Incorporated
    Inventors: Michael T. Davis, Chris A. Triska, John T. McKinley
  • Patent number: 7052157
    Abstract: A multiple function lighting fixture that uses compact fluorescent lamps (CFL), and circular fluorescent lamps positioned in strategic locations inside a lampshade. A shield within the lampshade divides the area into a primary interior zone and a secondary interior zone. One of the respective lamps is located in each of the respective interior zones. One of the lamps provides for upwardly directed light and the other lamp provides downwardly directed light. The inner and outer surfaces of the shield may have reflective properties. The lampshade may have portions thereof having light transmitting properties. The inner surface of the lampshade may have reflective properties in some areas. LEDs may be mounted in various areas of the respective primary interior zone and secondary interior zones. The light fixture may also have dimmer control switches/sensors and there may be sensors for remote control operation for turning the respective lamps on and off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Inventor: Kenneth H. Lau
  • Patent number: 6997581
    Abstract: A decorative lamp display panel assembly for attachment to out door wall/post lanterns, or like structure, such assembly having a removable display panel having a decorative picture and/or indicia thereon. A top frame member is releasably secured to the top edge of the display panel and a bottom frame member is releasably secured to the bottom edge of the display panel. A support arm assembly is connected to the top frame member at a front end, and to a clamp member at the rear end. The clamp member has finger members that can be bent outwardly so that they can be attached to different diameter structure on an outdoor lantern. The support arm assembly can be extended and retracted, and it can be adjusted to different vertical angles to vary the height of the top frame member with respect to the clamp member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Inventors: Dairen Shelton, Shawn Xifo, Mark McKenzie
  • Patent number: 6883939
    Abstract: A detachable lampshade includes an upper ring and a lower ring parallel to each other. Multiple shades are made of a resilient material and are bent outside the upper ring and the lower ring. Each shade has two rods respectively provided at two sides thereof A plurality of tubes is provided between the upper ring and the lower ring. Each tube has a channel longitudinally defined through an outer periphery of the tube. An upper slot and a lower slot are transversally defined at a diametrically opposite side of the channel for respectively locating the upper ring and the lower ring. The adjacent rods are received in the respective tubes through the channels and positioned between the upper ring and the respective upper slots, and between the lower ring and the respective lower slots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Inventor: Chaur-Bing Chen
  • Patent number: 6866403
    Abstract: A lamp for use on a table or a floor comprises a base, an intermediate spacer coupled to the base and rotatable with respect thereto, a light source, and a shade disposed over and about the light source. The shade has a surface shaped to insinuate a lipstick and additionally has a partially translucent portion acting to diffuse light emanating from the lamp. The lamp operates such that rotation of the intermediate spacer causes the lamp shade to move along a linear axis. A method for adjusting the light pattern emanating from such a lamp further comprises energizing the light source, rotating the intermediate spacer, and moving the shade along the linear axis while maintaining the light source energized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Assignee: Adesso Inc.
    Inventor: Amanda L. Schaak
  • Patent number: 6854871
    Abstract: A lighted ornamental device, kit and associated method of using the kit to illuminate the lighted ornamental device is disclosed. The device comprises a miniature light set attached to a plurality of interconnected adjoined cups. The miniature light set includes: an electrical plug; at least two electrical wires operatively connected to the electrical plug; and a plurality of lighting elements operatively connected to the electrical wires, in which each lighting element has: a base attached to the electrical wires; and a light emitter operatively connected to the two electrical wires. The plurality of interconnected adjoined cups is attached to the miniature light set forming a geometrical figure, such as a sphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Inventor: Serita S. Morton
  • Patent number: 6851836
    Abstract: A lamp shade which can be folded to reduce its size for shipping, display and storage, having an upper ring, a lower ring, and a number of supports interconnecting, separating and supporting the upper and lower rings. In one embodiment, the supports are separate trapezoid-shaped single piece supports which are disconnected from the rings for collapsing the lampshade. In another embodiment, the supports are separate U-shaped single piece supports which are disconnected from the rings for collapsing the lampshade. In another embodiment, the supports are U-shaped single piece supports loosely attached to the upper ring of the lampshade at the center of each support and which are disconnected from the lower ring for collapsing the lampshade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Inventor: Hsih Bin Chou
  • Publication number: 20040213010
    Abstract: An automotive headlamp assembly comprises a reflector positioned within a housing. The reflector defines a lamp cavity where a light source is positioned. The reflector includes a first portion designed to reflect light in a low beam pattern and a second portion designed to reflect light in a high beam pattern. An actuator is also positioned within the lamp cavity. The actuator is operable to move a light shield in a linear direction parallel to the optical axis of the reflector. In particular, the actuator is operable to move the light shield between a low beam position that exposes the light source to the first portion of the reflector and a high beam position that exposes the light source to both the first portion and the second portion of the reflector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2003
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Applicant: Guide Corporation
    Inventors: Paul D. Van Duyn, Tony E. Collins, James M. Mills
  • Publication number: 20040201996
    Abstract: A light fixture cover system and method is disclosed in which the selectively detachable cover is also a unitary structure including a body having a peripheral sealing lip that fits over any corresponding industry standard outside light fixture. From the outset, it should be noted that while the cover is illustrated generally as being of a round configuration, the cover may be of various other configurations such as rectangular, oval or square by way of non-limiting examples to fit all shapes of exterior light fixtures. The sealing lip of the cover has at least one laterally extending tab member to assist in removing the cover from the fixture. The cover portion is preferably made from a resilient polymeric material suitable for both winter and summer weather conditions in addition to being impervious to the heat generated by the electrical bulb or bulbs contained it the light fixture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2003
    Publication date: October 14, 2004
    Inventor: Martin Thomas Weber
  • Publication number: 20040202004
    Abstract: A bifunctional headlamp having a bulb shield operable to project a low beam light pattern or a high beam light pattern. A bulb shield surrounds a bulb inside a housing. The bulb shield is attached to an actuator, which rotates the bulb shield about the bulb. The bulb shield contains projections placed opposite one another on the bulb shield, which serve to selectively shield portions of emitted light from the bulb from reflecting out of the housing. The selective shielding of the light emitted from the housing allows the bifunctional headlamp to utilize one bulb for both a low beam pattern and a high beam pattern. The use of one bulb for two functions reduces complexity and electrical requirements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2003
    Publication date: October 14, 2004
    Applicant: Guide Corporation, A Delaware Corporation
    Inventor: Paul D. Van Duyn
  • Patent number: 6773145
    Abstract: A lampshade assembly comprises a lampshade and a connection mechanism. The lampshade has a plurality of lampshade pieces. The connection mechanism has a plurality of connecting rods each of which is respectively attached to the lampshade pieces. The connection mechanism further comprises an upper cap, a first fitting piece, a fitting set and a spring. When the spring is stretched outwardly to separate the upper cap from the first fitting piece and then stack the lampshade pieces. When the lampshade pieces are assembled, the connecting rods radiate around a circle. Since the space occupied by the lampshade assembly is reduced, the packing cost and the transport cost are reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Inventor: Pu-Ming Yang
  • Patent number: 6764200
    Abstract: A decorative lantern includes a plurality of constituent pieces made of a light-transmissible, heat-resisting, and flexible plastic material. Each of the constituent pieces has a radially inner zone at a first side thereof, and a radially outer zone at a second side thereof, and is formed at a radially inner edge with at least one recess portion. The constituent pieces are sequentially connected together by bonding the radially inner zone at the first side of a first constituent piece to a second constituent piece adjacent to the first side of the first constituent piece, and bonding the radially outer zone at the second side of the first constituent piece to a third constituent piece adjacent to the second side of the first constituent piece; and the recess portions of all the constituent pieces together define a receiving space in the decorative lantern for accommodating an electrically conductive light source therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventor: Hsiang Lan Wu Liu
  • Patent number: 6746137
    Abstract: A lampshade adapted to be interconvertible between an assembled configuration having a first volume and a knockdown configuration having a second, smaller volume comprises lampshade segments connected to rotational elements. Slotting means on preselected rotational elements position the connecting members to assume predetermined positions with respect to the common axis, where the rotational elements are locked in place. Methods for use of the lampshade in knockdown shipping, and kits containing the lampshade and instructional materials are also taught.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2004
    Inventor: John Yeh
  • Patent number: 6729747
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a combination lampshade assembly. The assembly consists of a base lampshade with a closed outer surface, with an upper opening and lower opening and a generally uniform closed surface area between them. The base lampshade assembly has no visible connecting devices or means which would differentiate it from the outward appearance of a standard lampshade. The base lampshade may be of opaque, transparent or translucent material. A rigid outer lampshade assembly is configured to fit over the standard lampshade base assembly and is held in place gravitationally by contact between the base assembly and the outer assembly. The outer assembly may be in two interchangeable pieces, with an inner sheath, and an outer cover with cut-out designs on its surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Inventor: Lalu Wirayani
  • Publication number: 20040070980
    Abstract: A lampshade assembly comprises a lampshade and a connection mechanism. The lampshade has a plurality of lampshade pieces. The connection mechanism has a plurality of connecting rods each of which is respectively attached to the lampshade pieces. The connection mechanism further comprises an upper cap, a first fitting piece, a fitting set and a spring. When the spring is stretched outwardly to separate the upper cap from the first fitting piece and then stack the lampshade pieces. When the lampshade pieces are assembled, the connecting rods radiate around a circle. Since the space occupied by the lampshade assembly is reduced, the packing cost and the transport cost are reduced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2002
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventor: Pu-Ming Yang
  • Patent number: 6685344
    Abstract: A lamp shade assembly includes a foldable shade having an upper edge and a lower edge to define an inner cavity therebetween, a top frame mounted at the upper edge of the foldable shade, a bottom frame mounted at the lower edge of the foldable shade, and a supporting frame detachably mounted between the top frame and the bottom frame within the inner cavity of the foldable shade for applying a stretching force on the foldable shade. The stretching force of the supporting frame is greater than a weight of the foldable shade, so that the foldable shade is stretched to provide a tension surface extending between the upper edge and the lower edge thereof, so as to form a collapsible lamp shade which is facilitated to be disassembled into a compact unit for storage and carriage and quickly assembled to tensely support a foldable shade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Inventor: William K. Lin
  • Patent number: 6676274
    Abstract: A nightlight having an outlet housing, a plurality of outlet housing prongs positioned adjacent to the outlet housing, a socket positioned adjacent to the outlet housing, the socket electrically connected to the plurality of outlet housing prongs, a bulb shade positioned adjacent to the outlet housing, the bulb shade having a width of approximately one or more inches, and a support arm removably connected to the outlet housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Inventor: Rick A. Rafferty
  • Publication number: 20030223239
    Abstract: An apparatus for diffusing light. In representative embodiments, an apparatus is disclosed that comprises a semi-transparent material piece having a particulate distributed within the piece, wherein the particulate is capable of diffusing light passing through the piece. In a preselected direction, the thickness of the piece varies with position. When light enters the piece in the preselected direction, the piece diffuses the light more in regions of greater thickness than in regions of lesser thickness. In other representative embodiments, another apparatus is disclosed that comprises a light source, a reflector, and a semi-transparent material piece. The reflector is capable of redirecting light from the light source onto a surface of the piece. A particulate is distributed within the piece, wherein the particulate is capable of diffusing light passing through the piece. In a preselected direction, the thickness of the piece varies with position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventors: Jacklyn M. Dowdy, Jesse M. Gerrard
  • Patent number: 6629770
    Abstract: Disclosed is a decorative novelty illuminated sparkling pumpkin device having a main body shell made of pelletized ethylene vinyl acetate copolymers bonded in a molding process, and a light source providing illumination within the hollow interior space of the main body shell whereby the pelletized ethylene vinyl acetate copolymers impart an enhanced sparkling/glowing effect upon illumination from the light source. A method of manufacturing such an illuminated sparkling pumpkin device is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2003
    Assignee: Seasons HK Limited
    Inventor: Brian Blatherwick
  • Patent number: 6616307
    Abstract: The luminaire has a lamp housing (1) in which lamps L1, L2 of different color aspect can be accommodated, surrounded by a reflector (11) and a non-transparent, light-transmitting window (10). The window (10) gives access to a reflector housing (3) which is provided with means (31, 32; 33) for screening and directing light. In the lamp housing, light of different color or color temperature is efficiently and effectively mixed. The luminaire may have a compact shape and is suitable for illuminating rooms efficiently with light of a chosen color aspect through dimming of the lamps in relation to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventors: Ludovicus Johannes Lambertus Haenen, Franciscus Guillaume Peter Sools
  • Patent number: 6609813
    Abstract: A housing and mounting system for a strip lighting device, particularly a lighting device of the kind in which multiple light emitting diode (LED) light sources are arranged at spaced intervals within an elongate tubular housing that is translucent and arranged to diffuse, disperse or scatter the light from the LED light sources. The tubular housing has two longitudinally extending keys integrally formed on the exterior of the tube. The interior of the tube has longitudinally extending formations for supporting mounted LED light sources within the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Assignee: Lumileds Lighting, U.S. LLC
    Inventors: David Field Showers, James Barry Quantrell
  • Patent number: 6611082
    Abstract: An integral lamp for producing a spectral light distribution substantially identical in uniformity to the spectral light distribution of a desired daylight with a color temperature of from about 3250 to about 10,000 degrees Kelvin throughout the entire visible light spectrum from about 380 to about 780 nanometers. The lamp contains a enclosed lamp envelope having an interior surface and an exterior surface, a light producing element which emits radiant energy throughout the entire visible spectrum with wavelengths from about 200 to about 2,000 nanometers at non-uniform levels of radiant energy across the visible spectrum, and at least one coating on at least one of said surfaces and having a transmittance level in substantial accordance with the formula D(L)=[O(L)−F(L)×S(L)]/[S(L)×{1−F(L)}], wherein: 1.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Assignee: Tailored Lighting Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin P. McGuire
  • Publication number: 20030142498
    Abstract: A structure of a foldable lampshade is disclosed. The foldable lampshade comprises an upper and a lower securing ring, an outer shade for connecting the upper and the lower securing ring, and one or more supporting frame, characterized in that the supporting frame is detachable and/or mountable with the securing rings such that the outer shade can be folded or stacked to a minimum size. A connection end of the upper securing ring is provided with a snap slot for connection with the snap plate provided on the upper securing ring. One end of the supporting frame is mounted to the lower securing ring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2002
    Publication date: July 31, 2003
    Inventor: Chin Lung Lu
  • Patent number: 6595665
    Abstract: The present invention relates to lamp shades which may be formed from similar components in a wide variety of configurations such as cylindrical, box, tapered, and frusto-conical lamp shades, with the assembled lamp shade, after a covering is applied to a frame, has substantially the same aesthetic appeal as a conventional factory assembled lamp shade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Inventor: Hong Ku Park
  • Patent number: 6578984
    Abstract: A circuit board indicator comprises a plurality of lamps with cut and bent terminals, an outer plastic holder and an inner plastic holder. The outer plastic holder contains an accommodating chamber, which has a plurality of rounded holes on a lateral side thereof. The inner plastic holder has a plurality of positioning recesses and each of the positioning recesses has a guiding slot on topside thereof. The terminals of the lamps are guided by the guiding slot and inserted into corresponding positioning recesses. The inner plastic holder further has a plurality of clamping dents to clamp corresponding lamps. The inner plastic holder has barbs on two lateral sides thereof and corresponding to rectangular grooves on the outer plastic holder. The barbs are engaged into corresponding rectangular grooves when the inner plastic holder is assembled to the outer plastic holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Assignee: Lite-On Electronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Chien Chung Chu, Wen Ching Wu, Chun Jen Chen, Long Kuan Lee, Yu Chin Yu
  • Publication number: 20030067777
    Abstract: The present invention is “an improved structure design for lampshade assembly” including a frame, several covers and few individual parts. The cover is in an arc shape structured by metal frame along the edge, which is wrapped with paper or fabric. The frame contains three crimp con rods in a triangular shape. The characteristics are that each individual cover contains two locks which situates on both top and bottom end at one side of the cover. Each of the locks contains a “C” shape notch which allow the metal stick to be embedded in. There is a joint attached to the notch, the joint is cleaved the metal stick, hence to allow assembling and demounting covers more effectively and efficiently.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2001
    Publication date: April 10, 2003
    Inventor: Mei-Ju Juang
  • Patent number: 6505961
    Abstract: There are provided a method of evaluating a basic curved surface for a reflecting mirror, an evaluation system for evaluating a basic curved surface for a reflecting mirror, and a computer-readable storage medium on which a program is recorded. There are provided a step (105a) of entering light source information on a light source and design information representative of a basic curved surface, and a step (105e) of displaying closed curved lines on a display device. The closed curved line data represents one or more closed curved lines which are included in one or more planes intersecting an axis Ax as well as in the basic curved surface. The axis Ax is determined to extend in a direction in which light from a light source is to be reflected by a reflecting mirror and to pass through a light source position defined by the light source information. The closed curved line data can be generated by obtaining lines of intersections of the plains and the basic curved surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Assignee: Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kazunori Natsume
  • Publication number: 20020196632
    Abstract: A fitter for a lighting fixture is provided that is made primarily from glass, plastic, or a similar material. The novel fitter design is affixed to the lighting fixture near a socket, and is used to hold in place a removable shade. The shade may rest in the novel fitter, or may be removably attached to it using mechanical attachment means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2001
    Publication date: December 26, 2002
    Inventor: Arch. Riccardo Luchi
  • Patent number: 6471378
    Abstract: An orientation illumination for motor vehicles is provided which, for illuminating a center console, is integrated in an area of a vehicle ceiling. Correspondingly mounted shields are located and shaped such that the vehicle occupants can have no direct viewing contact with the light source, whereby the light source is blocked for the vehicle occupants without blinding them.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Assignee: Ing. h.c.F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Michael Ziegerer, Stefan Eberhardt
  • Publication number: 20020145870
    Abstract: A parabolic reflector lighting fixture for use as an in-the-wall or in-the-floor or in-the-ceiling light has its lamp shiftable in a lumen plane perpendicular to the axis of symmetry of the parabolic reflector through the focal point. The parabolic reflector is limited to reflect light only between the intersection of this lumen plane and the reflector and between this intersection and the apex of the reflector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2002
    Publication date: October 10, 2002
    Applicant: ERCO Leuchten GmbH
    Inventor: Leonard Klose
  • Patent number: 6450667
    Abstract: A lighting system comprising a reflector and an arc lamp designed for illuminating a wide area with an even light distribution. The reflector has a cap that is generally parabolic in shape except perhaps at its top where it supports an arc lamp. The arc lamp is preferably a high intensity sodium or mercury vapor lamp with a vertical arc tube mounted so that the lowermost part of the arc tube is positioned to be even with the lowermost edge of the cap. The glass bulb housing the arc tube may extend below the lowermost edge. In an alternative embodiment, the lowermost edge of the cap has an extended portion and a short portion. In this embodiment, the lowermost part of the arc tube is even with the short portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: Earth Lighting Corporation
    Inventor: Theodore Wade Thompson
  • Patent number: 6439748
    Abstract: An overhead lamp includes a base, a support post assembly, a bowl-shaped lamp shade, and a lamp unit. The support post assembly has an upper end, and a lower end that is fixed on the base. The bowl-shaped lamp shade includes an annular opaque peripheral shade member that is attached to the upper end of the support post assembly and that has an inner periphery and an outer periphery, and a light-permeable central shade member. The central shade member has an outer periphery that is attached to the inner periphery of the peripheral shade member. The outer periphery of the peripheral shade member defines an upper end opening of the lamp shade. The lamp unit is disposed within the lamp shade, and can illuminate surroundings of the overhead lamp via the upper end opening and the central shade member of the shade upon activation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Assignee: Habitek Corporation
    Inventor: Duan-Cheng Hsieh
  • Patent number: 6361186
    Abstract: A neon light is simulated using light emitting diodes as a light source. An elongated, translucent diffuser of circular cross-sections is mated with an elongated opaque tubular housing of constant cross-section with a lengthwise slot. The diffuser is held in longitudinally aligned abutment against the edges of the housing slot to form a chamber between the housing and the diffuser from which light may only be emitted through the diffuser. A plurality of light emitting diodes is aligned in a linear array in the chamber. The reflection and refraction of light by the tubular diffuser produces a neon-like glow or glare along the exposed surface of the diffuser. The housing has a maximum width not greater than the diameter of the diffuser, so that the housing is hidden behind the diffuser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Assignee: Lektron Industrial Supply, Inc.
    Inventor: James C. Slayden
  • Publication number: 20020012246
    Abstract: The invention provides a lighting apparatus comprising a hollow elastomeric body in which are encased a means for receiving electrical power such as battery terminals, and at least one light-emitting means such as an LED. One or more parts of the hollow elastomeric body are translucent, and light from the light-emitting means is transmitted through the translucent parts of the body in use to produce an attractive diffuse lighting effect. The light emitting means are actuable by means of a latch switch embedded within the hollow elastomeric body. In use a user squeezes the exterior surface to latch the switch to cause the apparatus to light, and may then safely handle the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2001
    Publication date: January 31, 2002
    Inventors: Aaron Nathan Rincover, Jonathan Richard Coles, Simon Christopher Maidment
  • Patent number: 6332696
    Abstract: A lens cover for covering the lens of a traffic signal when the signal is not in service. The lens cover is made of a black polyethylene flat tubing which is cut and sealed on one end and has an open end to fit over traffic light lens shields. The lens cover is completely opaque and thus prevents light from the lens passing through. Thus, motorists are not confused with respect to the traffic light being in an operating state. The lens cover also has an observation hole at the bottom which allows one to check the operation of the traffic light from ground level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2001
    Inventor: Clyde R. Schepens
  • Publication number: 20010008462
    Abstract: A microscope having a device for selectable illumination for observation of a specimen by ultraviolet light, DUV light, or by visible light, and which can keep ultraviolet light and visible light separate. The microscope includes a visible light illuminating system to illuminate a specimen with visible light, an ultraviolet light illuminating system to illuminate the specimen with ultraviolet light, a visible light observation system to observe the specimen illuminated by the visible light illuminating system, and an ultraviolet light observation system to observe the specimen by the ultraviolet light illuminating system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventor: Atsushi Takeuchi
  • Patent number: 6238072
    Abstract: A vehicle headlamp having a clear front lens, a light bulb and a shade that covers a forward portion of the light bulb. The shade is provided with a radiation opening and a shading portion; and the shading portion is formed so as to prevent the light rays emitted from the light bulb from radiating to the front of the light bulb through the radiation opening, thus preventing a glare light and decreasing the temperature of an area around the light bulb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Toyozo Eto
  • Patent number: 6227687
    Abstract: The invention relates to an interleaved illumination support. The support includes a base and a wire coupled to the base. The wire includes beads attached to the wire along the length of the wire. A first leaf is coupled between the base and a bead that is the second bead above the base so as to maintain the wire in tension. A second leaf is coupled between a first bead and a fourth bead so as to maintain the wire in tension. A light source is coupled to the wire. Other features are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventor: Michael A. Kahwaji
  • Patent number: 6170970
    Abstract: A vehicle headlamp having a clear front lens, light bulb and a shade that covers a front portion of the light bulb, in which the shade has an octagonal cylindrical portion, and slits extending in the axial direction of the cylindrical portion are formed in the ridges formed by adjacent flat surfaces that constitute the octagonal cylindrical shape of the cylindrical portion, thus allowing heat generated by the light bulb to be released out of the shade, preventing a glare light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Assignee: Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Toyozo Eto
  • Patent number: 6152573
    Abstract: A light assembly has a translucent lens which is flexibly mounted to a mounting bracket containing a light source. The lens has a series of spaced-apart members located near its upper and lower edges. The members are mounted in holes in the lens and extend through both sides of the lens to form rigid protrusions. The mounting bracket is an extruded metal member with a retention joint on each end. Each retention joint has a pair of fingers which define a narrow recess with an internal lip. The width of the lens is greater than the distance between the retention joints so that the lens may be flexed into a bowed configuration. The light assembly is designed to be mounted as a sign which extends circumferencially around a structure or building. The mounting bracket is secured to the building. The lens is installed by first inserting its lower edge into the recess on the lower retention joint of the mounting bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Inventor: Cary L. Mitchell
  • Patent number: 6142651
    Abstract: A lighting system comprising a reflector and an arc lamp designed for illuminating a wide area with an even light distribution. The reflector has a cap portion integrally joined to a visor portion. The cap portion is generally parabolic in shape except perhaps at its center. The visor flares outwardly at a low angle and is about three to six inches long, dropping approximately one-half inch so that it is no higher than the bottom of the arc tube of the lamp. The arc lamp is preferably a high intensity sodium or mercury vapor lamp with a vertical arc tube mounted so that about one-half inch of arc tube extends below the juncture of the visor and the cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Inventor: Wade Thompson
  • Patent number: 6129447
    Abstract: An automobile lamp comprising a light source, a shade covering the light source, a reflector having an aperture, an outer lens covering the aperture, and an inner lens arranged vertically between the shade and the outer lens, wherein the reflector has a central reflecting surface, which directs light emitted from the light source to the inner lens, a left reflecting surface, a right reflecting surface, and at least one non-reflecting surface which is at least one step between the central reflecting surface and the left or right reflecting surface, and the inner lens covers the central reflecting surface of the reflector. Light distribution patterns are formed by the inner lens, the left reflecting surface, and the right reflecting surface. Light distribution patterns of the automobile lamps are horizontally wide and have high uniformity of luminous flux density distribution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Assignee: Stanley Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Takashi Futami
  • Patent number: 6032432
    Abstract: A modular panel and method for constructing light fixtures. The modular panel includes an elongated main panel with a curved cross section. The panel is preferably manufactured using an extrusion process. The side edges of the panel feature a pair of spaced-apart lips defining an elongated slot or receiving area for mateably accommodating a cooperating side edge of an adjacent part or panel for a tongue-in-groove connection. The panel has evenly spaced fins along the surface to provide structural integrity as well as to scatter light passing through the panel. Multiple panels being assembled with adjacent intermediate adjoining panels forming a housing having a closed cross section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Assignee: Genlyte Thomas Group LLC
    Inventor: Anthony G. Patti
  • Patent number: 6000817
    Abstract: A lamp having a coiled lamp shade disposed within and extending upwardly out of a frame assembly. The lamp shade is made of a translucent sheet, arranged in a loop or coil which bulges outwardly to form a wall which surrounds a lamp bulb assembly. The lamp shades can be of varying heights and shapes and is easily interchangeable with other lamp shades of the same type. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the frame assembly is a modular kit, having vertical and horizontal parts, which can be assembled to form a rectangular frame. Alternately, other types of frame assemblies, such as round shaped or preassembled frames, can be used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Inventor: Michael L. F. Chan
  • Patent number: 5977694
    Abstract: A lamp for producing a spectral light distribution which is substantially identical in uniformity to the spectral light distribution of a desired daylight throughout the entire visible light spectrum from about 380 to about 780 nanometers. The lamp contains a lamp envelope comprised of an exterior surface, a light-producing element substantially centrally disposed within said lamp envelope, a reflector around the light-producing element, and an aperture assembly in front of the light-producing element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Assignee: Tailored Lighting Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin P. McGuire
  • Patent number: 5975724
    Abstract: A lighting fixture includes a convertible shade which is supported relative to the light source to intercept light rays emitted by the light source in a selected direction or directions. The wall of the convertible shade has one or more wall inserts which can be selectively and easily secured to or detached from the convertible shade to alter the effect of the convertible shade on light rays from the light source which are directed at the location or locations of the wall insert(s) in the convertible shade without detaching the convertible shade from the shade supporting means. Preferably, the convertible shade is made of an opaque material while the insert(s) may be made of opaque, translucent or clear materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Inventor: James J. Pallanes
  • Patent number: 5861990
    Abstract: A combined optical diffuser and light concentrator uses a layer of optically transmissive material having a first surface to receive light at a range of angles of incidence and a second surface from which the light emerges at a range of angles of emergence, the second surface including a relief pattern featuring a multiplicity of minute projections, the shape and distribution of the projections resulting in diffused light at a range of angles of emergence narrower than the range of angles of incidence. The projections may be produced in accordance with various techniques, including the processing of a photoresist layer exposed to a random speckle pattern or microlithography, including e-beam/x-ray sources.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1999
    Assignee: Kaiser Optical Systems
    Inventor: James M. Tedesco
  • Patent number: 5858488
    Abstract: A lampshade includes a self-supporting backing member constituted of an extruded oriented polystyrene and an additive including a light-reflecting powdered filler, especially titanium dioxide, co-extruded with the oriented polystyrene and weighing in the range of 1%-10% of the total weight of the polystyrene. A fire-retarding filler, for example, antimony oxide, is also coextruded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1999
    Inventor: Richard Cohon
  • Patent number: 5825637
    Abstract: A desk lamp which includes a lamp stand, a supporting base revolvably supported on the lamp stand, two support arms symmetrically fastened to the supporting base at two opposite sides, two coupling members respectively connected to top ends of the support arms remote from the supporting base, two lamp shade holder frames respectively pivoted to the coupling members, a lamp holder holding a lamp bulb, two connecting rods bilaterally coupled between the lamp holder and the lamp shade holder frames, a reflector mounted on the connecting rods around the lamp holder, and a lamp shade supported on the lamp shade holder frames around the lamp holder, the lamp bulb and the reflector, the lamp shade having an inside wall coated with a layer of light reflecting substance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1998
    Inventor: Meiric Chen
  • Patent number: 5791773
    Abstract: A light fixture for photography. A spherical lantern having a semi-transparent light-diffusing surface membrane is secured to a frame that includes a wand of inverted U-shape design. A crosspiece that spans the width of the wand includes a junction box upon which a socket is provided for receiving a light globe. The spherical surface of the surrounding lantern creates a light diffusing surface that softens and lessens the size of shadows cast by illuminated objects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Inventor: James Babineaux