Guard Means Patents (Class 362/376)
  • Patent number: 7278763
    Abstract: A method and system for deterring theft of a vehicle lamp component can include a flexible member that can be permanently or semi-permanently attached to a vehicle lamp such that valuable portions of the vehicle lamp are destroyed if/when unauthorized detachment of the lamp occurs. The vehicle lamp can include a light source, electronic circuitry such as a ballast, and electrical wiring interconnecting the light source and the ballast. The antitheft method and system can include connecting a cable at one end to a vehicle structural member, and forming a loop in the cable to encircle the electrical wiring interconnecting the light source and the ballast without allowing passage of at least one of the light source or the ballast through the loop in the cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2007
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jay A. Sizemore
  • Patent number: 7267450
    Abstract: A cooking apparatus having a lamp assembly. The lamp assembly includes a lamp casing having elastic tongues at both sides thereof and mounted with a lamp therein, and a transparent cover having locking depressions at both sides thereof and inserted into the lamp casing. The elastic tongues are formed by cutting the lamp casing and are provided with projections at free ends thereof to be caught by the locking depressions. The lamp casing is combined with a sidewall plate fastening a front flange of the lamp casing to the sidewall plate. The transparent cover is inserted into the lamp casing, and is provided with an inserted part on which the locking depressions are formed. A lamp protecting memberincluding holes having sizes to prevent microwaves from passing therethrough, is placed between the lamp casing and the transparent cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yu Jeub Ha
  • Patent number: 7237921
    Abstract: A hand-held illuminator apparatus comprising in combination, an elongated body including a hand held section, a main light source carried by the body in spaced relation to the hand held section, circuitry in the body to supply electrical current to the light source, and a miniature light source carried by said apparatus to direct auxiliary light independently of light projection by the main light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: National Electric Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventor: James M. Galvez
  • Patent number: 7204603
    Abstract: A lighting system includes a suspended light fixture, a skin, and a plurality of alignment sights. The suspended light fixture includes a supporting spine. The skin partially surrounds the spine. The skin is supported by the spine at at least three points including an adjustable point. The skin is substantially more flexible than the spine. The spine has a plurality of suspension points that define a longitudinal axis. The plurality of alignment sights are connected to the skin along an axis defining a leveling axis. The leveling axis is substantially parallel to and offset from the longitudinal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2007
    Assignee: Pent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Geza T. Lanczy, Rodney A. Williams, Gregg E. Laukhuf
  • Patent number: 7121688
    Abstract: A box light includes a housing having first and second clamshell-halves. Each clamshell-half has a lamp face and an opposite exterior surface. At least one lamp and its corresponding protective enclosure is mounted in each of the lamp faces. Each of the lamp faces has at least one lamp-receiving aperture. The clamshell-halves are rotatably mounted to one another by a first hinge for rotation relative to another about the first hinge between open and closed positions. The open position includes selectively positionable open positions exposing the lamp faces so that an included angle between the lamp faces may be opened to two hundred seventy degrees whereby the lamps on each lamp face shines outwardly and oppositely of the housing when electrically powered. In the closed position the lamp faces are in closely adjacent opposed facing relation and the exterior surfaces are oppositely disposed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Inventor: Lee W. Rempel
  • Patent number: 7073925
    Abstract: A protective grid of a work light located on a rear portion of a main body of a halogen work light. The protective grid is spaced apart from the rear portion of the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: All-Line Inc.
    Inventor: Albert Stekelenburg
  • Patent number: 7063443
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an outdoor lamp with an improved watertight mechanism. Its peculiar watertight structure is formed by a lower-cap and an upper-cap, wherein a slope shaped on an anti-water rim of the upper-cap to facilitate rainwater slipping, out of the slope and gravity, directly to the ground. A convex bottom is further formed on the anti-water rim of the upper-cap causing rainwater, being unable to flow inwards cross the convex, to fall directly to the ground, thereby preventing rainwater from streaming to the lower-cap. Combining the slope and convex thereof, rainwater flowing into a joint surface thereby being reduced significantly. Additionally, the joint surface is formed with a two-step structure to curtail capillarity, thereby minimizing rainwater permeating inside to damage the lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2006
    Inventor: Nien-Fu Hsu
  • Patent number: 7036958
    Abstract: A lighting balloon is filled with a buoyant gas, such as helium, and carries a light source. To enable the balloon to withstand the rigours of field application and to be rapidly deployable, the light source may be installed in a cage and/or the ballon may be aerodynamically shaped or provided with stabilising fins; this may enable external lighting to be provided by a lighting a balloon for practical application where static lighting was previously required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Assignee: Leelium Balloons Limited
    Inventors: Rawdon John Hayne, Robert William Jeffs
  • Patent number: 7018075
    Abstract: A protective overhead light fixture kit is provided for use on an overhead light fixture having an electrical housing and a dome-shaped reflector. The kit includes a grid member, a band, two or more extension springs and a lanyard member. The grid member is situated generally across the open end of the reflector. The band member is placed generally around the outer perimeter of the light fixture reflector. The extension springs include two connection means where one of the connection means is capable of attachment to and outer portion of the grid member and the other of the connection means is capable of attachment to the band. The lanyard member also includes two ends where one end is capable of attachment to the outer portion of the grid member and the other end is capable of attachment to the band. This kit when installed can convert an unprotected overhead light fixture to a protected overhead light fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: Rodgers Holdings
    Inventors: Frank J. Rodgers, John P. Malinski
  • Patent number: 6974237
    Abstract: A protective structure for a portable work light includes a work light located on a rack. The rack consists of a pedestal, a front rack and a holding part. At least one protective grid is located on the rack. The at least one protective grid shields a front of the lighting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Inventor: Albert Stekelenburg
  • Patent number: 6964495
    Abstract: A reduced emissions work light includes a bulb with an elongated bulb tube. A handle is provided adjacent the bulb, and is adapted for being gripped by a user to manipulate the work light. An emissions containment housing is located within the handle. A ballast is located within the housing, and is operatively connected to the bulb. An emissions filter is located within the housing, and is operatively connected to the ballast. The filter and housing cooperate to reduce emissions generated by the work light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Assignee: MacLean Jameson, LLC
    Inventors: David M. Schnaufer, Thomas S. Crates
  • Patent number: 6943486
    Abstract: The invention relates to an illumination unit having an electric lamp which has a lamp vessel having a sealed-off end in the form of a glass base, and having an envelope which at least partially surrounds the lamp vessel and rests on the lamp vessel such that the glass base protrudes from the envelope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Osram Sylvania Inc.
    Inventors: Andreas Nittke, Roland Stark
  • Patent number: 6923553
    Abstract: An electrical handlamp includes a casing molded in two sections which are secured together and cooperate to define a handle for housing a lamp socket and wire connections from a supply cord to the socket. One handle section is integrally molded to provide a closed half shell for partially surrounding and housing a lamp. A protective cage is mounted for rotation about an axis between a closed position protecting the lamp and an open position for replacing the lamp. A hook at the top of the half shell rotatably mounts the top of the protective cage, and the bottom of the cage is rotatably received on the socket. A clasp releaseably latches the cage to the half shell in the closed position of the cage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Assignee: Woodhead Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael P. Mackin
  • Patent number: 6921184
    Abstract: An elongated illumination device, which in one illustrative embodiment, includes an elongated member that receives an elongated light source, where the elongated member is received by an elongated carrier. Preferably, the elongated member includes a cavity for receiving the elongated light source, and further includes a slit through the elongated member and into the cavity where the elongated light source can be inserted through the slit and into the cavity. The elongated carrier may include a slot for receiving the elongated member, and in some embodiments, the slot may provide a closing force to the slit of the elongated member. A latching mechanism may also be provided to help keep the slit in a closed or substantially closed position, if desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Inventor: Brian N. Tufte
  • Patent number: 6910787
    Abstract: A light guard of the present invention protects a light source mounted to a fixed surface. The light guard includes a base flange that is removably mountable to the fixed surface and a body portion that extends from the base flange for extending about and alongside the light source to prevent destruction of the light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2005
    Assignee: Protective Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Maxine C. Thome, Scott P. Thome
  • Patent number: 6905233
    Abstract: The present invention 10 discloses a protective screen safety guard 12 that attaches to lamps, heat lamps, or the like 18 which provides means for both light and heat for living creatures 20 contained in an aquarium and/or terrarium habitat 22. The present invention is a protective screen guard having a screen element 12 with spaced apart flanged fasteners 14 for engaging the lip 16 of a lamp, heat lamp, or the like 18. There are three flange members 14 provided, two of which are permanently affixed to the screen guard 12 and the third, a removable flange 26 having a captive (pem-type) fastener 28 for the securing and removal of the screen guard 12 from the lip 16 of a heat lamp 18. In a preferred additional embodiment, an opaque deflector plate 36 is secured between the light bulb 30 and the screen 12. The opaque deflector plate 36 redirects heat produced by the light bulb 30 providing improved means to protect an animal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2005
    Inventor: William P Blumenfeld-Kesler
  • Patent number: 6902303
    Abstract: A halogen worklight of the type having a peripheral frame or bezel that is completely removable to provide access to the bulb chamber for re-lamping. The peripheral frame is provided with a handle secured directly to the bezel for use in removing the bezel and for positioning the bezel when re-mounting it to the worklight body. The handle may be changed from one side of the bezel to the other to convert the worklight between right and left-handed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: EML Technologies LLC
    Inventor: Wade Lee
  • Patent number: 6899446
    Abstract: A grill for protecting light fixtures in a dome-type sports arena from being hit by balls. The grill comprises cross members mountable on a light fixture, upright members connected to the cross members, and a plurality of bows which surround the light on both ends, front, top, and bottom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Inventor: Paul Francis King
  • Patent number: 6851830
    Abstract: An electric connecting structure serves for assembling a lamp rod to a wire connecting box. The electric connecting structure comprises: a plurality of wire connecting boxes; a plurality of retaining seats; a receptacle at rear sides of retaining seats; a plurality of braking pieces; and a plurality of connectors. Each connector is embedded into a connecting hole of the retaining seat; and the braking pieces are buckled to a bottom of the braking inclined surface so that the connector is positioned firmly. Therefore, the ceiling lamp is formed by above components and assembly way. Furthermore, in assembly, the lamp rod is inserted into the wire connecting box so that the connector and the retaining seat are connected correctly. Thus, the main rod and wire connecting boxes of the ceiling lamp are engaged correctly by an automatic calibration function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Inventor: Wen-Chang Wu
  • Patent number: 6817733
    Abstract: A light for an industrial stringlight includes a cap having wire channels receiving insulated conductors. Non-interchangeable contact elements are placed in a screw-shell adapted to hold a lamp, and the cap and screw-shell are forced together. The cap is secured to the screw-shell, and insulation-piercing points on the contact elements establish electrical continuity with their associated conductors. The assembly is then overmolded for protection and sealing. A lamp guard is assembled to the overmold and has a bottom section hinged about a horizontal axis to permit replacing the lamp from beneath.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Assignee: Woodhead Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Rob A. Frei, Scott A. Hagen, Michael P. Mackin, Sheena Kantharia, Yih-Chyuan Chiou, Servando Cedillo
  • Publication number: 20040184267
    Abstract: A lighting system is provided including an illumination member, a housing and a resilient element. The illumination member has an electricity conductive portion and a light-emitting portion. The housing defines a chamber for receiving therein the illumination member and includes a socket portion adapted for engaging the electricity conductive portion of the illumination member. The resilient element establishes a contact between the illumination member and the housing for biasing the electricity conductive portion against the socket portion. In a variant, the housing has a light receiving portion defining the chamber and a passageway to the chamber. The housing includes a cap adapted to be removably connected to the light receiving portion for sealing the passageway. In this variant, the illumination member includes a handle portion enabling the removal of the illumination member from the chamber through the passageway.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2003
    Publication date: September 23, 2004
    Inventors: Francois Metayer, Benoit Laflamme
  • Publication number: 20040114374
    Abstract: The lens guard retaining device for retaining a cover over a lens mounted to a light housing, includes a criss-cross array or web of at least two, that is, first and second flexible straps. Each flexible strap has oppositely disposed cover mounts mounted at opposite ends thereof. The cover mounts are adapted to releasably engage with edges of the cover when adjacent the lens and when the array or web is wrapped around a back of the housing opposite the lens. Each flexible strap includes a strap tensioning means mounted or positioned along the strap for releasable tensioning of each flexible strap once the cover mounts are engaged with the cover. The array or web is thereby selectively and releasably tensionable onto and over the back of the housing to evenly tension the cover onto the lens.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2002
    Publication date: June 17, 2004
    Inventor: Patrick Wilfred Gaumont
  • Patent number: 6713971
    Abstract: A lamp string with an open-circuit-proof structure, which comprises a socket, a bulb receptacle, a bulb and a fuse assembly; the center hole of the socket is furnished with a rectangular cavity for receiving a fuse assembly, and an outer rectangular cavity for mounting bulb receptacle plugged with a bulb; the center of the socket is furnished with a fuse assembly; in case of the tungsten filament of a bulb being burned out, or a bulb receptacle of a socket being lost, the power-supply circuit can still be maintained in a closed circuit condition through the fuse assembly, i.e., the whole lamp string can be always in lighting-up condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Inventor: Pi-Chu Wong
  • Patent number: 6703786
    Abstract: There is disclosed an in-line free-form sensor for controlling power flow to a utilization device. The in-line sensor is contained within a housing attached along a power cord and the housing contains no externally-visible moving parts. The sensor can be trained to respond to certain stimuli, such as light, sound, temperature, human presence, and/or motion. The sensor can control the power directly by operation of a switch or can provide signals for use by a device external to said housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: Union Beach, L.P.
    Inventor: David H. Tannenbaum
  • Patent number: 6682209
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a worklight that is easily and safety transportable. The worklight of the present invention includes a stand which defines an interior cavity. An extendable support or telescopic pole may be attached to the stand. The invention further includes at least one light fixture. The light fixture is sized to be stored within the cavity of the stand. The light fixture also includes a clamp. The clamp is adapted to releasably secure the fixture to the extendable support or telescopic pole. The stand further creates two points of contact with the support surface with the first point of contact being larger in size than the second point of contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventors: George Michael Drake, Raymond Joseph Hiller, Kenneth Earl Ramsey, Ross Alfred Horton
  • Patent number: 6652127
    Abstract: Described is a protective device for protecting a light unit that leaves the light output either unaffected or slightly to moderately attenuated. Further, the protective device of the present invention may increase the protection and containment of shattering glass components resulting from internal malfunction explosion or object impact strike. Additionally, the protective device of the present invention increases protection against direct contact with extremely hot glass surfaces during normal operation of a quartz type lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Inventor: Michael A. Tarabula
  • Publication number: 20030210552
    Abstract: Indicating light for optical display, comprising a housing including electrically conducting components, a light-emitting diode, a light rod and a round cap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2003
    Publication date: November 13, 2003
    Inventors: Reinhold Barlian, Karl-Heinz Lux
  • Publication number: 20030156419
    Abstract: Described is a protective device for protecting a light unit that leaves the light output either unaffected or slightly to moderately attenuated. Further, the protective device of the present invention may increase the protection and containment of shattering glass components resulting from internal malfunction explosion or object impact strike. Additionally, the protective device of the present invention increases protection against direct contact with extremely hot glass surfaces during normal operation of a quartz type lamp.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2002
    Publication date: August 21, 2003
    Inventor: Michael A. Tarabula
  • Patent number: 6601814
    Abstract: A rotatable hook mount apparatus for suspending a utility light includes a first locking member attached to a light guard of the utility light and a second locking member attached to a shaft portion of a hook. The shaft portion is rotatably received in a bore formed in the first locking member. Adjacent faces of the locking members have cooperating teeth for preventing relative rotation. A spring biases the teeth into engagement and the second locking member with the attached hook can be moved against the spring bias to disengage the teeth for rotation of the hook relative to the light guard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Assignee: Alert Safety Lite Products Co., Inc.
    Inventors: James D. Kovacik, Paul S. Blanch, Joseph J. Smith
  • Patent number: 6595663
    Abstract: A work light cage attachment system which includes a cage that securely attaches over the glass opening on a work light. The cage includes opposite top and bottom frame members and opposite side frame members. Attached to the comers of the top and bottom frame members are rearward extending legs. Each extending leg includes a perpendicularly aligned foot that, during assembly, is placed inside the gap between the edge of the faceplate and the glass and extends outward to prevent disengagement of the cage from the faceplate. Attached to each foot on the top and bottom frame members is a C-shaped clip which engages a raised lip formed on the inside surface of the faceplate. The lips prevent the cage from being removed from the work light without a tool, thus meeting United Laboratories code.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Inventor: Frank Tsao
  • Publication number: 20030035300
    Abstract: A theft resistant lamp assembly for a vehicle includes a lamp unit and a mounting bracket. The mounting bracket supports the lamp unit. An outer flange extends from the mounting bracket and an inner flange extends inwardly from the mounting bracket so as to form a lens opening. The inner flange supports the lamp unit. One or more lock tabs are adapted to resiliently deform to secure the mounting bracket to the vehicle. One or more lamp unit legs are adapted to resiliently deform to secure the lamp unit to the mounting bracket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventor: Cary D. Branstetter
  • Publication number: 20030035292
    Abstract: A light guard of the present invention protects a light source mounted to a fixed surface. The light guard includes a base flange that is removably mountable to the fixed surface and a body portion that extends from the base flange for extending about and alongside the light source to prevent destruction of the light source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventors: Maxine C. Thome, Scott P. Thome
  • Patent number: 6502975
    Abstract: A theft resistant lamp assembly for a vehicle includes a lamp unit and a lens. The lamp unit is adapted to generate light and is enclosed in the lens. The lens has a body portion adapted to transmit light from the lamp and one or more lock tabs. A flange extends from the body portion. Each lock tab is constructed and arranged to resiliently deflect in order to secure the lens to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: Grote Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Cary D. Branstetter
  • Patent number: 6491415
    Abstract: A globe lighting assembly comprises a metal cage, a plastic globe at least partially surrounded by the metal cage, a reflector reflecting light from a light source throughout the globe, and a socket clip disposable into the reflector. The socket clip includes legs having at least one position along each of the legs corresponding to settings for the light source in the reflector. The metal cage has lower and upper rings, and prongs which all surround and give structural support for at least one of an upper portion and a lower door of the globe. The upper portion is hingedly connected to the lower door. The lower door has a circular rim that fits into an inner surface of the lower ring when the globe is in the closed position. As a result, the circular rim of the lower portion is not viewable from the outside of the globe. The lower ring of the cage has an inner circular lip that aids in preventing moisture from entering an interior of the globe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: U.S. Pole Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Angel M. Orellana
  • Publication number: 20020172049
    Abstract: A protective grill for use of the working light, wherein at least one end of an aligning rod is installed with a U-shaped hook portion, and the free end of such U-shaped hook portion is located on the front side; thus the present invention, with the design of the U-shaped hook portion, enables manufacturers to produce protective grills without considering the degree of precision, also the protective grills of the present invention can be installed easily and hard to be loosened from the working lights the protective grills attach to.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2002
    Publication date: November 21, 2002
    Applicant: TEST-RITE INTERNATIONAL COMPANY, LTD.
    Inventor: Ching Yueh
  • Patent number: 6474831
    Abstract: A light fitting intended to be fitted on a false ceiling board and comprising a socket part (1), to which a light sources (2) is fastended, and a reflector (3), which directs beams from the light source to the desired object. The reflector center comprises a domed projection (4) for the light source, the reflector (3) and the socket part (1) forming a closed space, in which the light source (2) is located.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Inventors: Jari Ruuttu, Filip Törnroos
  • Patent number: 6457843
    Abstract: An outlet covering system for restricting access to an outlet mounted on a wall surface. The outlet covering system includes an enclosure mountable to a wall surface for covering an outlet. The enclosure comprises a plate member that includes an opening for receiving the outlet and a cover member pivotally coupled to the plate member for selectively blocking access to the outlet. The cover member includes a front wall, a top wall, a bottom wall, and a pair of side walls. A securing member is provided for releasably securing the cover member to the plate member. A locking means is provided for selectively locking said cover member in a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Inventors: Billie-Jo M. Kester, Ronald D. Kester
  • Publication number: 20020109995
    Abstract: A work light cage attachment system which includes a cage that securely attaches over the glass opening on a work light. The cage includes opposite top and bottom frame members and opposite side frame members. Attached to the corners of the top and bottom frame members are rearward extending legs. Each extending leg includes a perpendicularly aligned foot that, during assembly, is placed inside the gap between the edge of the faceplate and the glass and extends outward to prevent disengagement of the cage from the faceplate. Attached to each foot on the top and bottom frame members is a C-shaped clip which engages a raised lip formed on the inside surface of the faceplate. The lips prevent the cage from being removed from the work light without a tool, thus meeting United Laboratories code.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2002
    Publication date: August 15, 2002
    Inventor: Frank Tsao
  • Patent number: 6425682
    Abstract: A lighting apparatus includes a first portion and a second portion which form an enclosure for a light source. The first portion extends from a first end to a second end, where the first end has a collar adapted to couple with an electrical socket with a snap fit connection. The electrical socket receives a light source therein. The second end of the first portion is hingedly coupled with the second portion, thereby allowing removal of the light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2002
    Assignee: Engineered Products Co.
    Inventor: Dale A. Klaus
  • Patent number: 6416205
    Abstract: A lighting fixture mounting device comprises a U shape channel having a bottom plate, side walls, extruding portions extruding sideward from both sides of the bottom plate and a wiring hole bored through the bottom plate. The lighting fixture is attached to the extruding portions, a wiring of the lighting fixture passes through the wiring hole and inside of the U shape channel to be connected to an external electric source, and the side walls are fixed to an object to which the lighting fixture is to be fixed. A lamp protecting device for a lighting fixture embedded in a built-in hole formed in a ceiling and having a flange formed on a lower end of a case of the lighting fixture and exposed out of the ceiling, comprises a guard fixing attachment made of a rectangular plate having a cutout through which the case can be passed through and outer ends folded to form steps corresponding to the thickness of the flange, and a guard made of circular members and rod like members connecting the circular members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Assignee: Japan Servo Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yoshikazu Uedono
  • Patent number: 6406167
    Abstract: A fluorescent lamp assembly and method of making the same for enclosing a lamp with a protective cover guard and attaching the cover guard to a base of the lamp. The cover guard is placed over and encloses the lamp and extends partially over the lamp base. A rigid metal or plastic ring is placed over the cover guard at a location where the guard extends over the lamp base and has a smaller diameter than the base. In this manner, the ring exerts a compressive force on the cover guard and base when assembled. The cover guard is subsequently sealed to the lamp base. Another variation of the invention uses a plastic or metal ring that is positioned over the lamp base. The ring has an annular cavity that accepts an end of the cover guard. The end of the cover guard is then secured in the annular cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: John J. Bock
  • Patent number: 6392541
    Abstract: A theft-deterrent outdoor lighting fixture having an auger that is connected to the lowermost end of the lighting fixture by means of a one-way clutch mechanism. The one-way clutch mechanist engages or locks the auger relative to the fixture when turned in the same direction of the thread of the auger but free-wheels in the reverse direction to preclude removal of fixture. In another embodiment, the theft-deterrent outdoor lighting includes an electronic design that detects movement representative of theft and sounds an alarm to draw attention to the theft while in progress. In still another embodiment, the theft-deterrent outdoor lighting includes a wiring harness that is destructively severed should the lighting fixture be pulled from the ground, thereby rendering the lighting inoperable in the case of theft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Assignee: King of Fans, Inc.
    Inventors: John C. Bucher, Charles E. Bucher, Tien S. Lowe, Chad J. Ricker
  • Patent number: 6379027
    Abstract: A light-generating and beam-establishing device including a cage having first and second cage members, having a wall defining a light opening surrounded by an annular washer-engaging surface, a pair of light-gathering/directing elements in end-to-end relationship at inlet ends and having outlet ends each of which is aligned with one of the washer-engaging surfaces, a lamp between the inlet ends, and a spring washer between and engaging the outlet end of each of the light-gathering/directing elements and the corresponding washer-engaging surfaces. The cage members are secured together with the light-gathering/directing elements and spring washers sandwiched therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Assignee: Ruud Lighting, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric J. Haugaard, Craig Raleigh
  • Publication number: 20020008975
    Abstract: A lighting fixture mounting device comprises a U shape channel having a bottom plate, side walls, extruding portions extruding sideward from both sides of the bottom plate and a wiring hole bored through the bottom plate. The lighting fixture is attached to the extruding portions, a wiring of the lighting fixture passes through the wiring hole and inside of the U shape channel to be connected to an external electric source, and the side walls are fixed to an object to which the lighting fixture is to be fixed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2001
    Publication date: January 24, 2002
    Applicant: Japan Servo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshikazu Uedono, Mariko Tanaka
  • 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: 20010001259
    Abstract: A lighting device for momentarily providing light to an appliance to which it is mounted. The lighting device has a nonconductive base structure adapted to be mounted onto the appliance or to be incorporated into the appliance or other appliance engaging structure. The base structure has a cavity, a retaining slot and apertures into which a battery, a light bulb and a conductive connector structure are placed. The conductive connector structure has a switch which extends from the base structure and through the exterior cover. The cover is constructed to receive the base structure and has a forwardly extending hood which is adapted to direct light to the appliance. Various mounting structures are provided for attaching the lighting device to an appliance or other objects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2000
    Publication date: May 17, 2001
    Inventor: Jan C. Gilmer
  • Patent number: 6227680
    Abstract: An institutional lamp includes several features to enhance lamp longevity and safety in an institutional setting. A diffuser/guard assembly fully surrounds the lamp bulbs to prevent casual disassembly or inadvertent contact with the bulbs. An auxiliary socket is provided that can be conveniently used to power other devices. A night light bulb is included and is also located within the diffuser/guard assembly. When so located, the lamp continues to provide a natural appearing illumination when the night light feature is used. An easy to use rocker switch is provided to enhance user operating convenience, and a durable, plastic lampshade avoids the types of damages frequently suffered by cloth shades. Preferably, the lamp is constructed of heavy, durable materials to improve durability. However, the lamp is styled and decorated to have the type of inviting appearance commonly associated with lamps intended for use in the home.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Schumaker Lighting, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael A Arndt
  • Patent number: 6217200
    Abstract: A safety light apparatus is provided for a trailered boat including an inboard or outboard propellered motor. The apparatus designed to be detachably mountable on a hub of the propellered motor. The apparatus preferably comprises a housing with a mounting recess, which is adapted to receive the hub, formed in a rear side thereof and a light assembly disposed on a front side of the housing. The light assembly preferably comprises a tail/brake light, which may include a back-up light, and an electrical connection assembly for electrically connecting the light assembly to a vehicle towing the trailered boat. The tail/brake light may be arranged to emit light pulses in response to application of the brake pedal of the vehicle. The safety light assembly may also comprise a back-up sensor installed on the housing which emits a warning signal upon detection of an obstruction. Preferably, the warning signal has an intensity which is dependent upon the distance between the obstruction and the back-up sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Inventor: Jared D. Huffman
  • Patent number: 6217195
    Abstract: A lamp with improved safety features, to avoid fire and burn hazards, includes an electrical circuit having a thermostat connected in series with the bulb of the lamp. The thermostat is mounted in close proximity to the lamp's bulb and, upon the ambient air temperature in the vicinity of the thermostat reaching a predetermined temperature, the thermostat effectively opens the electrical circuit, shutting the lamp off. Once power is turned off for a period of time, the thermostat resets and the lamp may be operated again. A protective guard is positioned over at least a portion of the bulb of the lamp to prevent accidental burning. Alternatively, the electrical circuit further includes a detector for sensing an object being placed within the lamp shade and generating a signal in response thereto. The detector is electrically connected to a switching device which terminates power to the lamp in response to the detector signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Assignee: The Holmes Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas M. Turner, Michael A. Gariepy
  • Patent number: 6196703
    Abstract: A control system is provided for use in conjunction with a lighting fixture which will provide additional safety by avoiding the risk of fire. The safety system provides a number of sensors which are capable of detecting the presence of objects in close proximity to the lighting element and appropriately switching power off when such objects are detected. The actual detection is accomplished by use of a plurality of infrared sensors which create an infrared shield around the bulb of the lighting fixture and insure no objects intrude upon the shielded space while the lighting system is in operation. A second safety benefit is provided by the use of a tilt switch. The tilt switch cuts off power to the lamp if the lamp is tipped or knocked over.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Assignee: Holtkotter International, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul W. Eusterbrock, Francis W. Camps