Guard Means Patents (Class 362/376)
  • Patent number: 6193382
    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: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Inventor: Jan C. Gilmer
  • Patent number: 6179450
    Abstract: A halogen lamp assembly comprising a housing, a halogen bulb installed in the housing, and a light exit shield removably mounted in the light exit opening of the housing, a support ring with a radially inward-projecting ring land, a first ring-shaped groove on inside radial surface of said support ring, a first O-ring mounted in said groove, said ring land being in front of the forward of the first O-ring, a first shield disk resting against the rear surface of the ring land, and a shield grid removably mounted in the support ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: Herbert Waldmarin GmbH & Co.
    Inventor: Gerhard Waldmann
  • Patent number: 6179435
    Abstract: A lighting assembly (10) which extends through the thickness of a wall (14) having a first side (16) and a second side (20) is described. The lighting assembly (10) comprises at least one light source (46) to illuminate an area on the first side (16) of said wall (14) and means being included to enable replacement of said light source from the second side (20) of said wall (14) wherein said means includes at least one duct (30) extending at least part of the way from the first side (16) of the wall (14) to the second side (20) of the wall (14); light source carrier means (50) on which said light source is mounted, said light source carrier means (50) and said light source (46) being movable through said at least one duct (30) from said second side (20) to said first side (16); moving means (80) to move said light source (46) and said carrier means (50) through said at least one duct (30); and, power supply means to said light source (46).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: British Nuclear Fuels PLC
    Inventor: Graham John Wilson
  • Patent number: 6179446
    Abstract: An arc lamp lightsource module comprises a removable lamp unit including an arc lamp attached to two radial electrode heatsinks that are in turn disposed in an insulating sleeve housing. A chassis has a catch and a clip to lock down the removable lamp unit. An igniter is included to power the arc lamp. A single fan and an air plenum are disposed in the chassis and provide for a cooling airflow that is split between the igniter and the two radial electrode heatsinks. A pair of machine screws provide electrical contact to each of the two radial electrode heatsinks and that have crowned heads for a smooth contact surface. A printed circuit board (PCB) has springboard cutouts and electrical pads providing for a spring-pressure electrical contact between the igniter and the arc lamp through the pair of machine screws.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: EG&G ILC Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Kamran Sarmadi
  • Patent number: 6170966
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a trouble light comprising a handle including a light bulb socket adapted to receive an electric light bulb, a cage mounted on the handle and adapted to enclose the light bulb, and a reflector located within the cage. The reflector is mounted on the handle so as to allow for the rotary movement of the reflector relative to the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Inventor: Frank Schwarzmann
  • Patent number: 6161947
    Abstract: A light fixture assembly includes a mounting plate, a ballast housing, and an adapter ring for attaching the ballast housing to the mounting plate. The adapter ring includes an annular body having opposite upper and lower annular portions and opposite exterior and interior sides. The upper annular portion has a continuous upper annular surface located between the opposite exterior and interior sides and adapted for sealably engaging the mounting plate. The lower annular portion has a continuous lower annular surface located between the opposite exterior and interior sides and adapted for sealably engaging the ballast housing. Upper and lower exterior fastening arrangements are provided on the adapter ring for removably securing the ballast housing to the mounting plate. The upper fastening arrangement is disposed on the upper annular portion of the annular body at the exterior side thereof and spaced outwardly from the continuous upper annular surface of the annular body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Michael J. Schinsky, Darrell F. Conrad, James J. Wojcicki
  • Patent number: 6146001
    Abstract: A helium or air filled latex balloon includes a lamp in its interior connected to an external power source by an electrically conductive cable passing through the balloon inlet port and neck. The cable comprises wires encapsulated with Kynar, a polyvinylidene fluoride, a semi-crystalline thermoplastic polymer that exhibits tacky surfaces and excellent properties for providing a weatherproof tight seal between the wire cable and the balloon. The neck is sealed with curling ribbon, by knotting or clips and the like. Air filled balloons may be supported by a stiff music wire or straw and helium filled balloons may be tethered by the cable. A power source illuminates the lamp via the cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Assignee: Patrick Alexander, Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Martin Cwiakala
  • Patent number: 6138319
    Abstract: A device for externally covering a rear vehicle light for protection from obscuring snow or dirt is provided. The device comprises a support structure to position a transparent cylindrical cover over a rear vehicle light. The cover is rotated by an electric motor. Also affixed to the support structure are upper and lower wiper blades in contact with the surface of the cover. While the cover is rotating light diminishing dirt and slush is scraped off the cover surface by the wiper blades.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Inventor: Robert J. Benoit
  • Patent number: 6135613
    Abstract: A lighting fixture assembly includes a lighting fixture having a mounting member, a pair of end plates, an elongated lamp and an elongated lens, and a pair of dust covers fittable over opposite ends of the lighting fixture. Each end plate is mounted to one of the opposite end of the mounting member and is substantially comprised of a first material having a first coefficient of thermal expansion. The lamp is mounted adjacent to the mounting member and extends between the end plates and has opposite ends disposed adjacent to the end plates. The lens is mounted adjacent to the mounting member and extends between the end plates and has opposite ends disposed adjacent to the end plates. The lens together with the mounting member and end plates substantially encloses the lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Steven W. Bodell, Stephen M. Stafford
  • Patent number: 6116759
    Abstract: A armored light fixture which comprises an armored housing which defines an upper passageway through which light may pass, at least one lamp disposed within the armored housing, at least one reflector structure which is adjustable in position and which is disposed above the armored housing to enable the adjustable reflection of light which passes through the upper passageway of the armored housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Assignee: Scientific Operating Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles C. Smith
  • Patent number: 6109760
    Abstract: An illuminated power outlet assembly for a motor vehicle having an insulator and an illumination device. The illumination device includes a light emitting diode and a resistor electrically coupled in series. The illumination device is positioned within a power outlet, specifically between the casing and the insulator, such that when the illumination device illuminates, the light passes through the insulator to light the power outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler Corporation
    Inventors: Ronald L. Salatrik, James A. Watson
  • Patent number: 6070989
    Abstract: There is provided a globe supporting structure that supports a globe of a gas lantern which burns combustible gas discharged from a gas cartridge containing the combustible gas by means of a burner head located inside the globe, including a ventilator positioned above the globe, a plurality of wires rotatably arranged on the ventilator, each of which rotates about the ventilator, and is shaped so as to be capable of reaching a bottom surface of the globe, and a globe supporting plate that supports the globe, and is provided with first arrangement which is detachably engagable with a portion of the wires reaching the bottom surface of the globe. In accordance with the globe supporting structure, the globe can be removed easily from the globe supporting plate without breaking the globe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Assignee: Snow Peak, Inc.
    Inventors: Hiroaki Yokoyama, Toshikazu Ikarashi
  • Patent number: 6065853
    Abstract: A driveway, walkway and landscape lighting assembly. The assembly has an elongated main tube body formed form PVC with hollow parallel support tubes underneath the body for allowing water in the body to seep into the ground. The main body can be up to approximately 30 feet in length. A hollow box with outwardly flared sides sits on top of the main body. A lens cover such as but not limited to a glass brick or plastic brick sits on top of the box. A bulb inside a protected cage can be fished from a remote site down the main elongated body to be positioned under the glass/plastic brick. A 2/1 reducer coupler and a plug can seal the outer open end of the main tube body. A first hose clamp can seal the reducer coupler to the elongated body, and a second hose clamp can seal the other end of the reducer coupler to the plug and lead wires that pass out of the coupler. The coupler allows for changing the bulbs from remote locations(i.e. up to approximately 30 feet away).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2000
    Inventor: Kirk D. Crevier
  • Patent number: 6050710
    Abstract: The invention is a portable worklight that includes a housing, bulb, support base and a translucent lens covering a light emitting opening defined by the housing. Use of the translucent lens eliminates glare and shadowing by diffusing or randomly scattering light emitted from the bulb. In addition, the housing and support base may be configured such that the housing is rotatably mounted to the support base and the support base is further configured to allow the housing to be folded within the support base. This reduces the overall size of the light when it is placed in a stored position. The light may further include a male electrical jack that is used to provided power to the device by coupling an electrical cord to the jack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Assignee: Regent Lighting Corporation
    Inventors: Gary M. Grossman, Michael Ballone, Thomas Van Dyk, John Kiely
  • Patent number: 6039460
    Abstract: An improved mounting arrangement is provided for supporting a tubular lamp, particularly such as a lamp used in fluid treatment processes, within a protective jacket such as a transparent sleeve of quartz glass or the like. The protective jacket is mounted by a compression nut to a threaded socket adapted for slide-fit reception of the lamp through the socket and into the protective jacket. The lamp comprises an elongated tubular glass lamp body having distal and proximal ends thereof supported by distal and proximal end caps each including spacers for centering the lamp body in spaced relation to the protective jacket. The proximal end cap comprises a lamp base with conductive terminal pins for connection to an electrical power source, and further includes outwardly projecting lock tabs for engagement, preferably with a quarter-turn rotation, with the compression nut to releasibly lock the lamp in position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Assignee: Aquafine Corporation
    Inventors: Tony Ng, Mike Murphy
  • Patent number: 6027232
    Abstract: A protective screen structure adapted for use on floor lamps having a light source orienting upwardly, in particular a protective screen mounted above a lampshade to avoid contact of flammable objects with the light bulb inside the lampshade. A protective screen is provided with a retaining plate at one end of an edge thereof the retaining plate having an oval connecting hole. The protective screen further has a reed disposed at the other end of the edge. Both ends of the reed are bent to form respective positioning hooks that pass through through holes in an inner furled edge of the lampshade to pivotally connect the protective screen to the lampshade. Therefore, by pulling the retaining plate, the protective screen can be lifted pivotally from the lampshade to allow cleaning or replacement of light bulbs. The oval connecting hole of the retaining plate enables the protective screen to adapt to lampshades of different specifications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Inventor: Shih-Ming Lin
  • Patent number: 6012826
    Abstract: An illuminating balloon with an inflatable envelope and a control unit integrated in the envelope includes an electropneumatic blowing device having an intake orifice to suck air in from the outside, and a discharge orifice to send the air into the internal space of the balloon, an electronic circuit for power supply of the electropneumatic device and of the bulb, and a cover for support of the bulb and of a protective grid preventing the envelope from coming into contact with the bulb, said grid being extended up to near the top of the envelope from coming into contact with the bulb, said grid being extended up to near the top of the envelope to give the balloon rigidity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Assignee: Airstar of Zone Artisanale de Champ Fila
    Inventor: Pierre Chabert
  • Patent number: 6004002
    Abstract: An improved solar lighting system can be applied to a number of temporary signs and is particularly adapted for use on a real estate sign. The system includes three parts: a solar generating unit containing a repositionable array or photovoltaic cells, electronic circuitry and storage batteries; an illumination unit containing electric lamps and reflectors and attachment devices for connection to a variety of signs; and a connecting cable for safely conducting electric energy between the units and for providing device security to discourage theft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Inventor: Darrell G. Giannone
  • Patent number: 6000819
    Abstract: A wide area lamp for use in hazardous locations includes a metal halide lamp excited by a ballast. The lamp is mounted within an explosion-proof transparent globe and metal lamp guard secured to a metal vault. The vault is divided into two compartments. One compartment houses a ballast for the lamp. That compartment is filled with a potting compound to eliminate any arcing in the high voltage excitation circuit. The other compartment is enclosed, but accessible for making necessary electrical connectors to a power feed cord.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Assignee: Woodhead Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Warren S. Graber, Horacio A. Baggio
  • Patent number: 5997160
    Abstract: A stand alone electric lamp for illumination which includes a tungsten-halogen bulb as the illuminating member. The lamp includes a support member, an upwardly directed open pan affixed to the support member in which the tungsten-halogen light bulb is disposed, a protector member disposed over the open pan to prevent foreign objects from coming into contact with the tungsten-halogen light bulb and a thermally activated switch. The protector member is substantially transparent to light from the tungsten-halogen bulb to allow light therefrom to pass through the protector member in a substantially unobstructed fashion. The thermally activated switch is disposed within the open pan for interruption of the application of electrical energy to the tungsten-halogen light bulb when temperatures at the protector member reaches a predetermined level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: Lamps Plus, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis K. Swanson
  • Patent number: 5984490
    Abstract: A portable, double-bulb halogen work light/floodlight (11) is disclosed. The portable, double-bulb halogen work light/floodlight includes an open-sided housing (17). Mounted in the housing is an undulating reflector (19) that includes at least two valleys in which halogen bulbs (21 and 23) are mounted. The open side of the housing is enclosed by a glass plate (25). Located on the outer face of the glass plate (25) is a grill (29). The base (15) includes a U-shaped base bracket (91) in which the housing (71) is mounted. Lock knobs (95) are used to lock the elevational position of the portable, double-bulb halogen work light/floodlight. Extending outwardly and downwardly from the cross-member (98) of the U-shaped bracket (91) are a plurality of feet (97). Affixed to the top of the housing (17) is a handle (81) surrounded by an insulating sleeve (83).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventor: Monte A. Leen
  • Patent number: 5961207
    Abstract: A trouble light apparatus including a cage in which low voltage (e.g. 12 volt) light(s) are housed, a handle connected to the cage which manual switches are mounted and in which a transformer is secured is disclosed. The handle has a primary cord running from it to a plug that may be fitted into a mating plug. Additionally, a number of secondary cord and mating plugs are provided, one of which can be received in a 12-volt dc cigarette lighter socket, another of which can be received into the conventional ac power (e.g. 120/240 volt ac) receptacle and another of which may have alligator clips for attachment to a battery (e.g. 12 volt automobile battery). The secondary cords contain two electrical lines and the primary cord has three lines. The plugs allow connection to two of the three lines with different pairs of lines connected for the high voltage ac source and the low voltage source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Inventor: Peter M. Petkovic
  • Patent number: 5951153
    Abstract: A convertible safety torchiere uses a glass-enclosed vertical halogen bulb with a Type A screwthreaded base. The base is screwed into a socket positioned in a frustoconical cup which extends downwardly from the bowl, and a transparent protective dome is mounted on the cup so as to surround the bulb in spaced relationship thereto. A protective funnel spaced from the cup and socket surrounds the cup and socket under the bowl. The Type A socket allows substitution of a standard incandescent bulb for the halogen bulb if desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Inventor: Manuel Favela
  • Patent number: 5944409
    Abstract: This invention is concerned of the structure of Light Hood Assembly. It consists of an outer hood, reflection hood, glass tube and fixed chips. The reflection hood and the glass tube are placed inside of the positioning slot of the outer slop. The reflection hood is positioned upon its own tension. The fixed chips are screwed to the outer hood to press the reflection hood and the glass tube unto their positions, in which the assembly is completed; by following above structure, it will reach the effects of quick assembly simple component and easy production.This invention concerns to a Structure of Light Hood Assembly. It provides for quickness of assembly and simplicity of component which leads to cost decreasing of its manufacture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Inventor: Frank Chen
  • Patent number: 5909953
    Abstract: The fluorescent lighting fixture includes a protective tube having a roulette configuration dented portions of which extend longitudinally and a rib having a long hole in which a wire is inserted. The roulette configuration appears as a stripe pattern on the protective tube and the wire inserted in the hole becomes less noticeable. When the fluorescent lamp is set alight, the light reflects, the entire protective tube becomes luminous uniformly, and the wire becomes hard to be seen. The wire can be invisible without an extra part such as a screening plate, and sufficient luminous intensity can be obtained from the entire protective tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 8, 1999
    Assignee: Jefcom Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kensuke Shima
  • Patent number: 5902037
    Abstract: A lamp with improved safety features to avoid fire and burn hazards. The lamp includes an electrical circuit having a thermostat connected in series with the bulb of the lamp. The thermostat is mounted in close proximity to the lamp's bulb and, upon the ambient air temperature in the vicinity of the thermostat reaching a predetermined temperature, the thermostat effectively opens the electrical circuit, shutting the lamp off. Once power is turned off for a period of time, the thermostat resets and the lamp may be operated again. A protective guard is positioned over at least a portion of the bulb of the lamp to prevent accidental burning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1999
    Assignee: Holmes Products Corp.
    Inventors: Thomas M. Turner, Robert J. Livergood, David Lo
  • Patent number: 5897199
    Abstract: A device for positioning a trouble light to cast light on a desired work area utilizing an adjustable rotational friction mechanism, and a support plate having a flat surface on its periphery and a hook rigidly attached to the support plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1999
    Inventor: Kenneth Edward Norris
  • Patent number: 5879073
    Abstract: A vehicle lamp having a discharge bulb which prevents radiation of electromagnetic waves toward the forward positions of the lamp. Radiation into the other directions is prevented by shielding members disposed around the lamp. A shade disposed in front of a discharge bulb attached to a reflector is made of metal and a stem of the shade is secured to the reflector in a state where the stem is electrically connected to a socket fixture. The shade is placed at ground potential through the fixture. Thus, the front portion of the discharge bulb is shielded and prevents radiation of the electromagnetic waves to positions in front of the lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1999
    Assignee: Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takashi Hori, Akiyoshi Ozaki, Shigeyuki Watanabe, Masahiro Kusagaya, Masatoshi Yoneyama
  • Patent number: 5865532
    Abstract: A device for fixing the screen of a ceiling light fixture to the base of the ceiling light fixture, wherein a seat is formed in the peripheral region of the base and is adapted to receive and retain an end of an elastic hook-shaped element, the opposite end whereof is adapted to engage, with a snap action, an undercut formed in the peripheral region of the screen, so as to clamp the rim of the screen against the rim of the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1999
    Assignee: 3F Filippi S.r.l.
    Inventor: Romano Bonazzi
  • Patent number: 5848836
    Abstract: A fluorescent tube lighting fixture includes a tubular main frame member which also acts as a conduit for routing wires between the ballast and the lamp holders. A frame extension the form of a Tee is threaded onto one end of the main frame member; and another portion of the Tee receives an adapter which secures the end cap to the fixture. Wire is routed through the adapter, and through the Tee into the main tubular frame member, all of which portions cooperate to act as a protective conduit for the power cord, with a single opening in the end cap. By removing a single compression nut, the end cap and lamp guard can be moved to gain access to the interior of the lamp for maintenance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1998
    Assignee: Woodhead Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Warren S. Graber, Horacio A. Baggio
  • Patent number: 5845989
    Abstract: A halogen work light (11) with an integral spare bulb container (31) is disclosed. The spare bulb container (31) is attached to the support frame (15) of the halogen work light (11) by welding, for example. The spare bulb container includes a tubular housing (33) and a pair of end pieces (35) that friction fit into the ends of the housing (33). The end pieces include longitudinal holes (43) for receiving the ends of a halogen bulb (45). The end pieces are formed of a soft, resilient material, such as rubber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1998
    Inventor: Monte A. Leen
  • Patent number: 5845988
    Abstract: An armored housing has resiliently supported therein the combined weight of a reflector structure, a lamp in the reflector structure and an electrical component, such as a ballast, mounted on the reflector structure. The reflector structure preferably comprises an extruded aluminum reflector support and a sheet metal reflector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1998
    Inventor: Michael C. Mandall
  • Patent number: 5833357
    Abstract: The present invention improves upon existing trouble lights by providing a multi-purpose trouble light having a handle upon which are positioned two electrical receptacles suitable for engagement with standard electrical plugs of the type having two flat male blades and a cylindrical male pin positioned in a standard triangular configuration. The electrical plugs are inserted into the receptacles in the handle inverted with respect to each other. A first and second female terminals and a ground terminal are positioned within the trouble light. The first and second female terminals, each having two channels, are positioned within the handle so that each male blade of the two electrical plugs is received within one of the channels. The third terminal provides a ground connection for the cylindrical male pins of the electrical plugs. This efficient and compact terminal configuration enables two electrical receptacles to be provided in a compact and conveniently-sized handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1998
    Inventor: Lin Chien Ting
  • Patent number: 5823665
    Abstract: A protective lens shield (12) with a torsion adjustment system (3) and simple one-bolt mounting bracket clamp (1) for use with outdoor lighting fixtures. The protective lens shield is constructed of dual layers and thicknesses of polycarbonate sheets (12) which have ballistic containment properties. The bracket clamp (1), clamp bolt assembly (2), adjustment carriage bolt (3), threaded adjustment housing (4), and arm-shield adjustment arm (5) are constructed of steel with a galvanized coating for a corrosion resistant longer life. The hook-and-cable assembly (FIG. 2) is comprised of a hook (8), cable (9), and a cable assembly bolt (10) which is stainless steel corrosion resistant materials. The torsion flex system is enhanced by the adjustable torsion carriage bolt (3). This adjustment allows for a flex in the polycarbonate sheets allowing it to absorb the energy from objects attempting to penetrate the shield (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1998
    Inventor: Steven G. Braun
  • Patent number: 5813751
    Abstract: A device for permanent installation of exterior Christmas lighting. The device includes an elongated channel having top and bottom walls joined by a rear wall, and a front wall that depends from the top wall, and a flexible, rectangular screen cover for insertion and retention between the front wall and the bottom wall. The device, in conjunction with one or more additional devices, can be custom fit and mounted by fasteners to a building exterior, such as along principal architectural features--e.g., attached to the eaves or outlining a pitched roof. With the cover screen removed, a string of decorative Christmas lights can be positioned within and stretched from one end of the channel to an opposite end thereof, electrically connected to similar strings within additional such devices, and connected to a source of electrical power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1998
    Inventor: Robert G. Shaffer
  • Patent number: 5800052
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a safety shield or protective cover for halogen lamps, particularly halogen floor lamps, whereby the protective safety shield is mounted over the enlarged opening of the inverted shade device so that flammable objects are prevented from coming in contact with a very hot lighted halogen bulb. The safety shield comprises a plurality of ring members that are equally spaced apart, one above the other, and a fixedly attached to strut members, and wherein the halogen lamp is provided with a safety switch that is arranged to allow for an operative active mode as long as the lamppost is in a vertical position, and conversely placed in an operative mode when the lamp is tilted to at least 10.degree. in any direction about the vertical axis of the lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1998
    Inventor: John Yeh
  • Patent number: 5785408
    Abstract: An illuminating device for a tool includes a light bulb secured in a housing and one or more batteries. The housing has a damper device for attaching to the tool. A switch is disposed between the battery and the light bulb and the housing has a blade for actuating the switch. The blade includes a projection for engaging with the tool and for allowing the blade to actuate the switch by the tool. The damper device has two openings for engaging with the tool and for allowing the tool to be disengaged from the projection when the tool is engaged in an outer opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Inventor: Kuo Hwa Tseng
  • Patent number: 5782554
    Abstract: A decorative lamp assembly including a base, a lamp holder holding a lamp socket on the inside and a bulb in the lamp socket, a basket fastened between the lamp holder and the base by plugging to hold a lamp shade around the bulb, and a top cap covered on the lamp holder and fastened to the lamp socket by hooks to hold down an electrical wire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1998
    Inventor: Shun-Feng Huang
  • Patent number: 5725303
    Abstract: A guard netting for protecting the top opening of a lampshade that directs light upwards to prevent objects falling against the light bulb within the lampshade. The guard netting is designed to be inserted into different sized lampshades. The guard netting has multiple mounting holes for the attachment of locating plates with a screw and nut. Each locating plate will extend beyond the edge of the guard netting to hold the guard netting in place within a lampshade at a position below the flange at the top of the lampshade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1998
    Inventor: Shih-Ming Lin
  • Patent number: 5720549
    Abstract: A lamp head incorporated with an anti-combustion arrangement, which includes an upwardly directed pan and a reflector member disposed internally of the pan. The reflector member has a planar lip for supporting a reflecting disc and a holding means for electrically receiving a halogen light source. The reflecting disc has an inner concave reflecting surface positioned below the halogen light source. A shielding lens is mounted on the planar lip for closely covering the halogen light source, wherein a high temperature burning zone is formed above the concave reflecting surface and around the halogen light source. The anti-combustion arrangement includes a transparent protective shelter and a supporting means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 24, 1998
    Inventor: Danny Lavy
  • Patent number: 5718506
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a safety shield or protective cover for halogen lamps particularly halogen floor lamps, whereby the protective safety shield is mounted within an inverted shade device so that flammable objects are prevented from coming in contact with a very hot lighted halogen bulb. The safety shield comprises a substantially rectangular wire framework defined by an arcuate wire support base member that is fixedly attached to a halogen lamp fixture, and wherein the wire support base member includes at least two arcuate rod members transversely affixed thereto so as to cover the halogen lamp fixture, thereby preventing any foreign material from coming in contact with the halogen lamp bulb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 17, 1998
    Inventor: John Yeh
  • Patent number: 5716127
    Abstract: A signal light housing is comprised of three basic component parts; a back plate, a mounting plate and a lens cover. The back plate is provided with a substantially flat exterior surface to enable the signal light housing to be mounted flush against the exterior surface of a vehicle. The lens cover encloses an interior volume of the housing and can be removed from the housing without removing the housing from the vehicle surface. The mounting plate is removably attached to the back plate and provides a sufficient area to support a variety of different types of signal light assemblies thereon within the interior volume of the housing. The mounting plate is easily removed from the back plate to remove a defective signal light assembly from the housing, and enable its replacement with an operative signal light assembly attached on a like mounting plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 10, 1998
    Assignee: The Fire Products Company
    Inventors: W. Kenneth Menke, W. Kenneth Menke, III
  • Patent number: 5704710
    Abstract: A lighting fixture with a safety hook allows easier wiring of a lighting fixture, allows easier and accurate alignment and attachment of the fixture's housing and cover during installation and prevents the fixture from dropping down during servicing. A safety hook with two stages or hook elements is installed in the cover of the lighting fixture. An eye flange with a slot is installed in the housing so that the slot can slide over the safety hook in the cover. As the slot is guided over the safety hook, the slot will engage the first stage or hook element which allows the housing to hang from the cover without any assistance from the installer while the necessary wiring connections are made. Then, the slot is guided further onto the safety hook until the slot engages the second stage or hook element which allows the housing and cover to be easily aligned and connected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 6, 1998
    Assignee: The Genlyte Group, Incorporated
    Inventors: Ann Greene, Richard Sangiamo
  • Patent number: 5695278
    Abstract: A portable halogen bulb worklight fixture is formed with a housing forming a bulb containing cavity and a light emitting opening. A peripheral frame, a frame handle extending outwardly from one side of the frame. A top handle is located above the frame and a bulb storage compartment is located in the top handle. A base structure is arranged to minimize exposure of the user to heat generated by the fixture when replacing a bulb and when being transported from one site to another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 9, 1997
    Assignee: Regent Lighting Corporation
    Inventors: M. Gary Grossman, Edward H. Meisner, Michael P. Ballone, John E. Kiely
  • Patent number: 5690425
    Abstract: Protective guard assemblies for light fixtures are designed especially for use in industrial environments, such as underground mining operations. Each assembly includes a reinforced cap and a base to which the light fixture is secured. The cap is installed over the fixture and secured to opposing sides of the base by hinges formed of mating sleeves. The base includes a cable support flange at one end. The support flange has two semi-circular notches on which the electrical cables are cradled to protect them from being damaged by outside impact. The cap includes a rear end plate with mating inverted semi-circular notches. With the cap installed on the base, the mating notches in the cap and base form circular apertures that firmly engage the two cables. The cap also includes a C-shaped hood extending from the rear end plate and over the cables and support flange to provide additional protection from outside impact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 25, 1997
    Inventor: D. Robert Knoll, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5664874
    Abstract: In a barricade warning light, a first casing formed from two (2) mated halves provides a detachable enclosure, inaccessible (except by a special key) before detachment of a second casing holding batteries replaceable with the casings detached. A mounting rod assembly extends from the first casing for attachment to a barricade. An electronic module holds a photocell, an LED and circuitry energizing the LED when the photocell detects darkness. The first casing has a (a) first opening for coupling the key to a switch controlling the warning light operation, (b) second opening for key insertion to couple (decouple) the first casing to (from) the mounting rod assembly and (c) third opening for key insertion to couple (decouple) the casings. With the casings decoupled, (a) the electronic module may be assembled (disassembled) to (from) the first casing and (b) a base plate is attachable (separable) to (from) the bottom of the first casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 9, 1997
    Inventor: Allen G. Winterer
  • Patent number: 5660464
    Abstract: A halogen lamp comprises a lamp casing, a lamp disposed in the lamp casing, a halogen tube disposed in the lamp, and a halogen lamp protection net covering the lamp. A protection plate covers the halogen tube. A first press plate has a first proximal end and a first distal end. A first through hole is formed on a middle portion of the first press plate. A first threaded hole is formed on the first distal end. A second press plate has a second proximal end and a second distal end. A second through hole is formed on a middle portion of the second press plate. A second threaded hole is formed on the second distal end. The first distal end is inserted in the lamp. The first proximal end presses a first end of the protection plate. The lamp and the first end of the protection plate are fastened together. The second distal end is inserted in the lamp. The second proximal end presses a second end of the protection plate. The lamp and the second end of the protection plate are fastened together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 26, 1997
    Inventor: Shih-Ming Lin
  • Patent number: 5651612
    Abstract: A flat tear drop shaped protective lens shield (12) with a torsion adjustment system (3) and simple one bolt mounting bracket clamp (1). The protective lens shield is constructed of dual layers and thicknesses of polycarbonate sheets (12) which have ballistic containment properties. The bracket clamp (1), clamp bolt assembly (2), adjustment carriage bolt (3), threaded adjustment housing (4), and arm-shield adjustment arm (5) are constructed of steel with a galvanized coating for a corrosion resistant longer life. The hook and cable assembly (FIG. 2) is comprised of a hook (8), cable (9), and a cable assembly bolt (10) which is stainless steel corrosion resistant materials. The torsion flex system is enhanced by the adjustable torsion carriage bolt (3). This adjustment allows for a flex in the polycarbonate sheets allowing it to absorb the energy from objects attempting to penetrate the shield (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 29, 1997
    Inventor: Steven G. Braun
  • Patent number: 5615947
    Abstract: A shield is provided for a luminaire or street lamp of the type which includes an open-bottom housing for a light source and a lens-bearing door movably mounted on the housing for closing the bottom thereof and mounting a lens below the light source. The shield is formed of an overlapping pair of substantially rigid but slightly flexible transparent planar panels separated by an air gap, with a first plurality of resilient spacers disposed intermediate the panels and providing the air gap. The shield is easily and rapidly mounted on the bottom of the housing to protect the lens and the light source, with a second plurality of resilient spacers disposed intermediate the door and an adjacent one of said panels and providing an air gap therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 1, 1997
    Assignee: Florida Power & Light Co.
    Inventors: George Shambo, Robert B. Hodson, Robert C. Blackburn
  • Patent number: 5607228
    Abstract: An automotive headlamp capable of effectively shielding the electromagnetic waves generated by the discharge lamp of a light source and peripheral portions. A conductive layer for shielding electromagnetic waves, which is composed of a durable metallic plating layer, is provided on the surface of the lamp body of the headlamp. With such a shielding layer, a good electromagnetic shielding effect is obtained a long period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 4, 1997
    Assignee: Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Akiyosi Ozaki, Toichiro Shiozawa, Kazuyoshi Suzuki