Bulb Engaging Patents (Class 362/377)
  • Patent number: 9028116
    Abstract: A removable birdstop closure for preventing the entry of birds and other small animals into the headcasing of a roadway luminaire through the opening at the rear of the luminaire that can be installed around standardized 1.25? or 2.00? headpoles. Retaining means on the birdstop closure permits easy installation and removal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Inventor: Joseph Roy LaForge
  • Publication number: 20150078016
    Abstract: An anti-theft collar for preventing removal of a light-emitting diode (LED) bulb having cooling fins when the LED bulb is installed in a socket housing of a light fixture. The anti-theft collar includes a wall portion configured to enclose at least a portion of the LED bulb and at least a portion of the socket housing. The anti-theft collar also includes a pair of ribs configured to engage with the cooling fins to inhibit rotation of the LED bulb with respect to the anti-theft collar when the anti-theft collar is installed. The anti-theft collar also includes one or more features configured to inhibit movement of the anti-theft collar with respect to the socket housing of the light fixture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2013
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Applicant: SWITCH BULB COMPANY, INC.
    Inventors: Andrew WEBB, Roget RATCHFORD, Vanvisa ATTASET
  • Publication number: 20150078015
    Abstract: An anti-theft system for preventing removal of a light bulb when installed in a socket housing of a light fixture. The anti-theft system includes an anti-theft collar configured to mechanically engage with the light bulb and the socket housing. The anti-theft collar includes a wall portion configured to enclose at least a portion of the light bulb and at least a portion of the socket housing. The anti-theft collar also includes one or more features configured to inhibit rotation of the light bulb with respect to the anti-theft collar when the anti-theft collar is installed. The anti-theft collar also includes one or more features configured to inhibit movement of the anti-theft collar with respect to the socket housing of the light fixture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2013
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Applicant: SWITCH BULB COMPANY, INC.
    Inventors: Andrew WEBB, Roget RATCHFORD, Vanvisa ATTASET
  • Patent number: 8820984
    Abstract: A programmable lighting effect device and system includes a main body having a plug secured to the first end, a socket secured to the second end, and a controller secured within a middle portion. The controller utilizes the alternating current frequency of the supplied electricity as a common clock and further instructs a light bulb installed within the socket to perform a predetermined illumination effect based on stored operating instructions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Inventor: Lee Gillio
  • Patent number: 8757851
    Abstract: An illumination device includes a telescoping mast with a stern navigation light source, a first rear facing illumination source, a second rear facing illumination source, a front-facing inboard light source stationed between the first and second light sources, a weather receiver which receives location-based weather information, and a geo-location receiver in communication with the weather receiver. The mast automatically telescopes and retracts, and the stern navigation light source automatically turns on and off, based at least in part on the information. The illumination device can be provided in an outboard marine motor, or as a system for retrofitting existing outboard marine motors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Inventor: Charles Edward Clemons
  • Patent number: 7828469
    Abstract: A light source module adapted to a projecting device including a light bulb, a fan, and an air tunnel structure is provided. The fan is located by the light bulb for cooling the light bulb. The air tunnel structure is located respective to the location of the light bulb, for removing the heat generated by the light bulb. The air tunnel structure has a curved inner wall, a plurality of fins, and a tank. The curved inner wall is located inside the air tunnel structure respective to the location of the light bulb. The fins are formed on the curved inner wall for blocking the fragments generated by the explosion of the light bulb. The tank is located by a side of the curved inner wall for carrying the fragments clashing the fins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Coretronic Corporation
    Inventors: I-Hsien Liu, Tzu-Tse Huang
  • Patent number: 7819548
    Abstract: A safety sleeve apparatus comprises a safety sleeve encapsulating a fluorescent tube for protecting the fluorescent tube from physical damage and for preventing the tube from sliding out of the sleeve and breaking if the sleeve is tilted from the horizontal during installation of the tube into a pair of lamp sockets. The sleeve protects the tube from damage if the sleeve is struck by a hard object, and creates an airspace around the tube to protect the tube from cold and prevent the escape of fragments from a broken tube. The sleeve has a greater inside diameter than the outside diameter of the tube. An end cap is mounted on each end of the sleeve, and the end cap includes a cylindrical ring extending upright from the edges of a flat end wall. Projections are included in the cylindrical ring and the projections attach to the slots in the ends of the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: Light Lines, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Schultz, Anthony Kasmar
  • Patent number: 7748886
    Abstract: An irreversible electrical base for irreversibly converting an incandescent lighting product to a low-power lighting product is provided. Various methods of converting an incandescent lighting product to a low-power lighting product and converting a low-power lighting product to an incandescent lighting product, are provided. Various non-threaded incandescent light bulbs, non-threaded halogen incandescent light bulbs, and non-threaded LED-based light bulbs are provided. A keyless lighting fixture having an insert and twist connector is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: The L.D. Kichler Co.
    Inventors: Bruce Raymond Pazula, Joseph John Janos, George J. Uhler, Jeffrey Richard Dross
  • Patent number: 7722242
    Abstract: A lamp fixing structure is arranged with a lamp which has an electrode and a wire electrically connected to the electrode. The lamp fixing structure includes a lamp holder and at least one lamp protecting member. The lamp holder has at least one pressing part. The lamp protecting member has a first hole. The lamp is inserted into the lamp protecting member. The wire passes through the lamp protecting member from the first hole. The pressing part presses the lamp protecting member so that the first hole is fitted to the wire tightly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Chi Mei Optoelectronics Corp.
    Inventors: Cheng-Hsiang Chen, Chih-Hung Hsu
  • Publication number: 20100118553
    Abstract: A linkage member to link lamps; said lamps being of the kind which comprise electrical contact points located at their first end and no external electrical contact points at their second end; said linkage member comprises a first portion configured to attach to the electrical contact points of a first lamp and to cover at least in part said electrical contact points; and a second portion configured to connect to a second lamp at an end which has no external electrical contact points.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Inventor: David Charles Payne
  • Patent number: 7691304
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a thermoplastic composition comprising a combination of 10 to 80 wt. % of a polyester, more than 0 to 50 wt. % of a polycarbonate, and 10 to 90 wt. % of at least one polyester-polycarbonate copolymer comprising, based on the total weight of the copolymer, 15 to 95 wt. % of arylate ester units, and 5 to 85 wt. % of aromatic carbonate units. Also disclosed is a method of forming the compositions, and articles prepared therefrom, for example transparent covers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Sabic Innovative Plastics IP B.V.
    Inventors: Parminder Agarwal, Shreyas Chakravarti, Bernard Schrauwen, Robert van de Grampel
  • Patent number: 7692369
    Abstract: Discoloration and deformation of a resin case triggered by heat generation from a failed circuit component at the end of the life of an arc tube are prevented without increasing the cost and size. A lighting unit that lights a light source with an inverter while receiving electric power from an AC power supply, and that contains a lighting circuit that includes a plurality of circuit components inclusive of capacitors. Among the capacitors, all capacitors with an applied voltage of 50V or greater (C4, C5, C6, C7, C8, CD1 and CD2) are foil type film capacitors with exceptions of smoothing electrolytic capacitors (CD1 and CD2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Etsuji Morimoto, Kazuhiko Itou, Shougo Takahashi
  • Patent number: 7686998
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a thermoplastic composition comprising a combination of 10 to 80 wt. % of a polyester and 10 to 90 wt. % of at least one two polyester-polycarbonate copolymers comprising, based on the total weight of the copolymer, 10 to 95 wt. % of arylate ester units, and 5 to 85 wt. % of aromatic carbonate units. Also disclosed is a method of forming the compositions, and articles prepared therefrom, for example transparent covers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Sabic Innovative Plastics IP B.V.
    Inventors: Shreyas Chakravarti, Rodney W. Fonseca, Bernard Schrauwen, Robert van de Grampel
  • Patent number: 7686997
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a thermoplastic composition comprising a combination of 10 to 80 weight percent of a polyester, 5 to 50 weight percent of a polycarbonate, and 10 to 90 weight percent of a polyester-polycarbonate copolymer comprising, based on the total weight of the copolymer, 15 to 95 weight percent of arylate ester units, and 5 to 85 weight percent of aromatic carbonate units. Also disclosed is a method of forming the compositions, and articles prepared therefrom, for example transparent covers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: SABIC Innovative Plastics IP B.V.
    Inventors: Parminder Agarwal, Rodney W. Fonseca
  • Patent number: 7559674
    Abstract: A LED lighting arrangement includes a support body having mounted thereon one or more LED lighting sources and a driver or feeding the LED lighting sources. The support body includes a high-voltage section carrying the driver and a low-voltage section carrying, mounted on a heat sink, the light sources. An insulation barrier is provided between the high voltage section and the low-voltage section of the board with a twisted pair forming a wiring that traverses the insulation barrier to connect the driver and the LED lighting sources.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: Osram Gesellschaft mit beschraenkter Haftung
    Inventors: Xi Yuan He, Rui Ma, Giovanni Scilla
  • Patent number: 7429119
    Abstract: A protective device for a lamp, especially a high-pressure xenon discharge lamp or high-pressure mercury vapor discharge lamp, includes a pressurized lamp vessel and a protective envelope which surrounds the lamps in at least some sections, can be fixed to the lamp by two closures that engage around lamp shafts, and is made of a gas-permeable fleece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2008
    Assignee: Patent-Treuhand-Gesellschaft für elektrische Glühlampen mbH
    Inventors: Horst Gedack, Thomas Mehr
  • Patent number: 7407308
    Abstract: A luminaire (1) comprises a luminaire housing (2) having at least one light exit opening (3), and further comprises an explosion-proof illuminant (4) consisting of at least a lamp (5), a base (6) and a lamp envelope (7), and housing contacts (8) in the luminaire housing (2) for supplying the illuminant with electric energy. In order to facilitate the production of such a luminaire and in order to design said luminaire also in such a way that it is variable and suitable for use with essentially all kinds of lamps, and at least partially reusable, the lamp (5) and the base (6) are arranged in the lamp envelope (7) which is implemented in the pressure-resistant-encapsulation or increased-safety ignition protection mode and which is provided with envelope contacts (9) that are accessible from outside, said envelope contacts (9) being used for connection to the housing contacts (8) and being electrically connected to the base (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: Cooper Crouse-Hinds GmbH
    Inventor: Friedhelm Harnischmacher
  • Publication number: 20080055916
    Abstract: A lamp fixing structure is arranged with a lamp which has an electrode and a wire electrically connected to the electrode. The lamp fixing structure includes a lamp holder and at least one lamp protecting member. The lamp holder has at least one pressing part. The lamp protecting member has a first hole. The lamp is inserted into the lamp protecting member. The wire passes through the lamp protecting member from the first hole. The pressing part presses the lamp protecting member so that the first hole is fitted to the wire tightly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2007
    Publication date: March 6, 2008
    Applicant: CHI MEI OPTOELECTRONICS CORP.
    Inventors: Cheng-Hsiang CHEN, Chih-Hung HSU
  • Patent number: 7316499
    Abstract: A method of converting an incandescent lighting product to a fluorescent lighting product is provided. Exemplary method steps include: providing an incandescent lighting product having a frame carrying at least one electrical lighting base, the at least one electrical lighting base removably receiving a removable incandescent bulb socket, the at least one electrical lighting base also capable of removably receiving a removable ballast for a fluorescent light bulb in place of the removable incandescent bulb socket, and the at least one base having an associated removable incandescent bulb socket; removing the at least one removable incandescent bulb socket from the at least one electrical lighting base; and coupling at least one ballast and at least one fluorescent light bulb to the at least one electrical lighting base carried by the frame in place of a removed incandescent bulb socket to permit the lighting product to be used as a fluorescent lighting product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Assignee: The L.D. Kichler Co.
    Inventor: Bruce Raymond Pazula
  • Publication number: 20070223226
    Abstract: Embodiments of a light emitting diode (LED) illuminating apparatus and a method of manufacturing the same are provided. An LED illuminating apparatus can include a substrate, at least one LED mounted on the substrate, and a moisture-proof coating layer formed around the at least one LED. A method of manufacturing an LED illuminating apparatus can include mounting at least one LED on a substrate and forming a moisture-proof coating layer around the at least one LED.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2007
    Publication date: September 27, 2007
    Inventor: Dong Wook Park
  • Patent number: 7129625
    Abstract: A protected lamp assembly includes a tubular lamp enclosed within a tubular protective housing. The lamp is supported by grommets or bushings of a resilient material that are retained within the housing. An end cap assembly may include the bushing for the lamp and also support the protective housing. Conductors through the end caps communicate with the lamp electrodes. In alternate embodiments the conductors may emerge from one of the end caps or the end caps may include a conductive coating with a connection to the lamp electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: BJI Energy Solutions LLC
    Inventor: Brent Marsh
  • Patent number: 7090390
    Abstract: A removable incandescent light bulb socket having: (a) a housing having at least first and second ends and an axis, having at least one opening at the first end, and the housing made at least in part of a heat-resistant material resistant to a temperature of about 90° C.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: The L.D. Kichler Co.
    Inventor: Bruce Raymond Pazula
  • Patent number: 7086775
    Abstract: A backlight module for a liquid crystal display device is disclosed. The backlight module includes a bottom housing having at least one side frame that has a terminal installation part; a lamp bracket having a pair of opposing lamp supporters and a pair of opposing side shafts, wherein the lamp bracket is mounted on at least one side frame and can be moved relatively to at least one side frame; at least one first terminal mounted on the lamp supporters for conducting electrical signals; at least one lamp having a pair of electrodes engaging with at least one first terminal, wherein the electrode is at an end of the lamp; and at least one second terminal mounted on the terminal installation part, wherein at least one second terminal connects with an external driving device and has at least one electrical connecting surface for electrical connecting with the first terminal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Assignee: Quanta Display Inc.
    Inventors: Hsin Tao Huang, Chun Chien Chu
  • Patent number: 7070307
    Abstract: A replaceable lamp assembly includes a lamp coupled to a lamp header; and a cap coupled to the lamp header that at least partially covers the lamp. The cap minimizes contamination of the lamp and is configured to allow selective exposure of the lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventor: John M. Koegler
  • 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: 6916112
    Abstract: A light emitter is disclosed herein. An embodiment of the light emitter comprises a tube, a first aperture, a second aperture, a lens, a base mechanism, and a light path. The tube has a first end and a second end. The first aperture is located proximate the tube first end and the second aperture is located proximate the tube second end. The lens is located within the tube. The base mechanism is attached to the tube first end and has a cavity formed therein. The light path extends between the cavity and the second aperture and passes through the first aperture and through the lens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Thomas W Holmquist, Ron L. King, Dean J. Geilenkirchen, John T. Meredith, Walter M. Wang, David W Boyd
  • 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: 6837900
    Abstract: The invention relates to a tanning module with optimized guidance of the cooling air, having a housing, a three-dimensional reflector, and at least one windowpane-shaped radiation filter. The housing has on the side of the housing opposite the radiation filter the shape of a gable roof, a hip roof, or a false hip roof, the roof ridge being flattened and facing away from the radiation filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: Heraeus Noblelight GmbH
    Inventors: Bernd Ullrich, Ulrich Berger
  • Patent number: 6793381
    Abstract: Cold cathode fluorescent lamps (CCFLs), associated devices and methods of use, and more specifically, exit signs, traffic signals, informational and other signage and lighting devices utilizing CCFL-type devices are provided with novel connectors, mounting brackets, housings, associated electronics and other accessories to provide new and unique lighting devices and methods of using them, all of which offer significant savings in cost, operating expense, power consumption and retrofit convenience.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: BJI Energy Solutions, LLC
    Inventor: Brent Marsh
  • Patent number: 6776511
    Abstract: There are three different embodiments of lamp assemblies according to this invention that can be exposed to forms of moisture and still be protected against a potentiality of short-circuiting. The first embodiment has the lamp shade oriented below a horizontal plane. The lamp shade is secured to a base with an o-ring mounted there between, and this secured connection-is covered by a base cap. The base cap and o-ring prevent water from entering the lamp shade at the connection with the base, and the orientation of the entire assembly below the horizontal plane prevents water from entering the open end of the lamp shade. The second embodiment has the lamp shade resting in a base cap and the socket and base of the electrical components are arranged in the fixture such that the top of the socket and base rise above the top edge of the base cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2004
    Inventor: Lance Trimble Lindsay
  • Patent number: 6769794
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a decorative garden lamp, which includes a holding rod connecting with a bulb holder and a bulb, wherein a soft cover is provided around the bulb and the bulb holder. The characteristic of the invention is that a shell is provided in the soft cover around the bulb to avoid the soft cover contacting with the bulb directly when air leakage is happened. So the soft cover is avoided from being burned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2004
    Inventor: Ming-Hsien Huang
  • Publication number: 20040105270
    Abstract: A shunt element contacting structure for decorative lamp holder mainly includes two contacting plates correspondingly fixed to an inner wall surface of a decorative lamp holder and each having an inward projected elastic portion, and a holding member radially inward extended from the inner wall surface of the lamp holder to hold a shunt element thereto. When a decorative lamp is inserted into the lamp holder with two leads in contact with the two contacting plates, the two elastic portions are also radially outward pushed by a lower portion of the decorative lamp to disengage from two ends of the shunt element on the holding member. And, when the decorative lamp is removed from the lamp holder, the elastic portions of the contacting plates resume to their radially inward projected positions to contact with two ends of the shunt element to thereby provide a shunt path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2002
    Publication date: June 3, 2004
    Inventor: Whiter Shieh
  • 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: 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
  • Patent number: 6616310
    Abstract: Cold cathode fluorescent lamps (CCFLs), associated devices and methods of use, and more specifically, exit signs, traffic signals, informational and other signage and lighting devices utilizing CCFL-type devices are provided with novel connectors, mounting brackets, housings, associated electronics and other accessories to provide new and unique lighting devices and methods of using them, all of which offer significant savings in cost, operating expense, power consumption and retrofit convenience.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: BJI Energy Solutions, LLC
    Inventor: Brent Marsh
  • Patent number: 6515433
    Abstract: Sputtering of the cathodes of a cold cathode fluorescent lamp is reduced or eliminated by removing electrodes altogether from the sealed envelope containing the gaseous medium. Electric field is then applied by means of electrically conductive members outside the tube. Alternatively, the current passing between electrodes can be spread over multiple sub-electrodes so that the current flow and sputtering experienced by each individual sub-electrode will be reduced. Different designs are employed to facilitate heat dissipation for high power and high intensity cold cathode fluorescent lamp applications. Thus, a container for the fluorescent lamp tube may be omitted altogether and adjacent rounds of a spiral-shaped lamp may be attached together by an adhesive material. Alternatively, the container may be open at one end to facilitate heat dissipation. Or the container for the lamp and the housing from the driver may each contain a hole to allow air circulation to carry away heat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: Coollite International Holding Limited
    Inventors: Shichao Ge, Xi Huang, Ivan Chan
  • Patent number: 6481875
    Abstract: A light socket cover system that is used by persons decorating with lights, including strings of lights, that provides an electrically nonconductive cover for providing a moisture tight covering for one or more empty light sockets and/or one or more light sockets with light bulbs installed therein. The light socket cover system includes a two-part sealable housing and in some options a socket filling structure to prevent access into the socket by fingers, water and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Inventor: Alan R. Bryant
  • Patent number: 6422721
    Abstract: A tube guard system is provided for use in a flourescent light fixture and comprises at least one lamp assembly. The lamp assembly further comprises a lamp having two ends and having at least one terminal at each end, a sleeve having two ends and surrounding the lamp, and an end cap having a concentric opening formed thereupon affixed to each end of the sleeve whereby the terminals protrude through the openings in the end caps. A pair of lampholders affixed to the fixture receive each lamp used in the fixture whereby the terminals are placed in contacting relation with the lampholders. A preferred lampholder has a lamp center line of at least ⅝″, thereby allowing the use of low-profile lampholders having a lamp center line of ⅝″, or standard lampholders having a lamp center line of ⅞″. Preferred sleeves and end caps are of polycarbonate materials in order to provide heat and ultra violet resistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Assignee: Genlyte Thomas Group LLC
    Inventors: Carlton Plunk, Mike Miller
  • Patent number: 6382812
    Abstract: A decorative light s string is disclosed, including a power cord, a plurality of electric connectors respectively installed in the power cord, a plurality of lamp assemblies respectively connected to the electric connectors to obtain the necessary working voltage, and a plurality of electric extension wires respectively connected between the electric connectors and the lamp assemblies to transmit electricity from the power connectors and the lamp assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Inventor: Min Hsun Hsu
  • Patent number: 6367179
    Abstract: An optical chassis utilizes optical couplers to convert the radial optical distribution of tube-shaped lamps into a more uniform optical distribution on planar illuminated surfaces. An optical chassis designed as an illumination source for emergency exit signs has two lamps and two optical couplers spaced apart on the optical chassis with a voltage converter disposed between the optical couplers. Illumination efficiency and uniformity is improved so that the optical chassis satisfies Underwriter's Laboratory standards for emergency exit sign retrofit kits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignee: BJI Energy Solutions, LLC
    Inventor: Brent Marsh
  • Publication number: 20020008971
    Abstract: A lamp assembly for providing a safer means for handling of cold cathode fluorescent lamps wherein said lamp assembly comprises: (i) a cold cathode fluorescent lamp; (ii) a housing into which said cold cathode fluorescent lamp is placed; (iii) at least one end cap. In particular the present invention provides a lamp assembly for use with “EXIT” signage manufactured in accordance with recognized international codes or standards.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2001
    Publication date: January 24, 2002
    Inventor: John McKenna
  • Patent number: 6262311
    Abstract: Process for the preparation of 2,3,5-trimethyl-p-benzoquinone by oxidizing 2,3,5-trimethylphenol or 2,3,6-trimethylphenol with oxygen or an oxygen-containing gas mixture in the presence of a catalyst system which can be a copper halide and a transition metal halide; for example iron, chromium, manganese, cobalt, nickel, zinc or a rare earth halide, in a two-phase reaction medium, at elevated temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Assignee: Degussa AG
    Inventors: Ralf Maassen, Steffen Krill, Barbara Jäger, Klaus Huthmacher
  • Patent number: 6238062
    Abstract: The present invention proposes a modified lamp series. The lamp series is a power cable with a plurality of bulb sets installed thereon. Each bulb set comprises a bulb seat, a fixing outer lid, and a bearing soft core. An accommodation groove is disposed in the bulb seal. An outer thread is formed on the upper periphery of the bulb seat. An inner thread is formed in the fixing outer lid. A retaining ring is installed on the top of the fixing outer lid. A bulb base of the light bulb penetrates an opening at the center of the retaining ring. The inner thread of the fixing outer lid can be matched exactly with the outer thread of the bulb seat such that the fixing outer lid can be screwed firmly on the bulb seat. The bearing soft core can be lapped exactly in the accommodation groove. Two opposite holes are disposed at proper positions of the bottom of the bearing soft core. The bulb base of the light bulb penetrates the opening of the fixing outer lib and is placed in the bearing soft core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Inventor: Min-Hsun Hsu
  • 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: 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: 6155695
    Abstract: A light cover is provided for direct attachment to a light bulb of a decorative light. The light cover is made of a flexible material which is dyed to a desired color. The light cover because of its flexible material is adaptable for use with different sized light bulbs. The light cover does not substantially change the diffusion of the light projected, but achieves a desired color change. In a first embodiment, the light cover is cylindrical in shape with an integral cone-shaped cap. In a second embodiment, the cap is eliminated and the light cover is simply cylindrical in shape. The invention in one aspect is a light cover. In another aspect, the invention is a light cover in combination with a standard decorative light. In another aspect, the invention is an artificial Christmas tree of the type having improved decorative lighting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Assignee: St. Nick Co.
    Inventor: Ira A. Sealy
  • Patent number: 6135620
    Abstract: Cold cathode fluorescent lamps (CCFLs), associated devices and methods of use, and more specifically, exit signs, traffic signals, informational and other signage and lighting devices utilizing CCFL-type devices in conjunction with novel connectors, mounting brackets, housings, associated electronics and other accessories to provide new and unique lighting devices and methods of using them, all of which offer significant savings in cost, operating expense, power consumption and retrofit convenience.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: Re-Energy, Inc.
    Inventor: Brent Marsh
  • Patent number: 6113246
    Abstract: A novel neon lighting protective mounting device comprised of a transparent elongated elastomeric tubing or sleeve having two parallel interior channels which are able to seat both the central light emitting portion of a neon border light as well as the terminal blackened bent portions of a neon border light. The protective tube further has a flat surface extending its length which allows maximum illumination of the central light emitting portion of the neon border light through the transparent tube and which also allows the protective tubing to be removably mounted to the interior surface of a store window by using Velcro strips, screw and eyelet mounts or other type of attachment device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Inventor: Anthony Ruh
  • 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: 5908230
    Abstract: A bulb mounting for air handling equipment indicator bulbs that include at least a lamp base having a top flange. The mounting includes an air handling equipment support member having a hole, and retaining surface disposed a predetermined distance above an equipment support wall, that slidably receives the lamp base so that the flange rests on the retaining surface. The mounting further includes a top cover having an opening large enough to receive the bulb, and a tube shape that presses the flange against the retaining surface. The cover top side is disposed a predetermined distance above the flange, so that the bulb is positioned and secured a precise distance relative to the top of the cover and the equipment support wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 1, 1999
    Assignee: Carrier Corporation
    Inventors: Richard J. Duell, Stephen Stopyra, Theodore S. Bolton