Shock Absorbing Patents (Class 362/390)
  • Patent number: 7452112
    Abstract: A headlight, in particular of the elliptical type for a motor vehicle, comprises a casing fixed on the vehicle; a protective cover glass closing off the casing; and an optical module which comprises a reflector, a lens and an intermediate fixed to the reflector and supporting the lens, the lens and intermediate constituting a rigid module. The invention provides a headlight of this type which also includes means for absorbing at least some of the energy produced during impact with a pedestrian, by displacing at least part of the optical module. The invention also provides a method of absorbing at least some of the energy arising from impact between a pedestrian and a vehicle headlight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Assignee: Valeo Vision
    Inventor: Philippe Arlon
  • Patent number: 7427155
    Abstract: A liquid crystal module provides for concave shaped recesses formed in an elastic member along the circumference of a linear light source that is arranged on the side of a light guide, and lamp holders attached to both ends of the linear light source, while ring-shaped hard members are engaged with the recesses. Thus, the hard members serve as a grip against an impact applied to the linear light source, and the linear light source is prevented from being damaged. Accordingly, a sidelight-type liquid crystal module with a liquid crystal panel is thereby obtained, in which the damage to the linear light source (when an impact, or the like, is applied to the liquid crystal panel) is prevented by simple means without affecting the quality of light that is emitted toward the liquid crystal panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2008
    Assignees: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd., Tottori Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Taiji Nakagawa, Seiji Morimoto, Yuki Muraoka
  • Publication number: 20080089070
    Abstract: An exemplary LED lamp module includes an LED lamp, a fixed base, and a plurality of elastic member. The LED lamp includes a base and an LED module. The base includes a plurality of connecting portions, and the fixed base includes a plate and a plurality of fixed poles corresponding to the connecting portions so as to form a space therebetween for accommodating the LED lamp. Each of the fixed poles includes a plurality of locating grooves. One end of each of the elastic member is connected to the connecting portions of the base, and the other end of each of the elastic member is adjustably fixed to the locating grooves of the fixed poles. The illuminating angle of the LED module may be conveniently adjusted according to different height of the lamp post and the different of the angles between the LED lamp modules relative to the ground.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2006
    Publication date: April 17, 2008
    Inventor: Chin-Wen Wang
  • Publication number: 20080080164
    Abstract: A shock absorbing mounting for a rotating warning light for a light bar is provided by the assembly of the rotator with a base member useful for mounting one or more rotators and other light producing array units. The light bar base member has longitudinal grooves and the mounting enables the rotator to be attached wherever desired along the grooves. The grooves are blind grooves. The rotator has its own base with a plurality of holes in which are provided resilient shock absorbing grommets with holes therethrough. The assembly of the rotator to the light bar base member is via self-threading screws which have heads, parts of which may be washers, which enlarge the diameter of the heads. The screws are of such length that when they engage and are stopped by the bottom of the grooves, the head compresses the grommet sufficiently to provide a resilient shock absorbing connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2006
    Publication date: April 3, 2008
    Inventor: Michael F. Mastin
  • Patent number: 7165870
    Abstract: A device for the dampening of the transfer of vibrations to a light fixture from a structure. The device which connects to a light fixture can connect to a structure at a place where a light fixture would otherwise connect. The dampening component of the device can be configured to dampen structural vibrations of many directional orientations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Inventor: Jerry D. McKenney
  • Patent number: 7159997
    Abstract: The present invention provides for a linear lighting apparatus. The apparatus includes a plurality of light emitting diodes, a primary optical assembly, and a secondary optical assembly. The light emitting diodes produce light towards the primary optical assembly. The primary optical assembly refracts this light towards the secondary optical assembly. The secondary optical assembly receives this light and refracts the light again so that the light emanates from the linear lighting apparatus. The present invention also provides a method for improving lighting efficiency from a linear lighting apparatus. The method includes emitting light from a plurality of light emitting diodes, refracting the light in a primary optical assembly, receiving this light refracted by the primary optical assembly, and refracting this light in a secondary optical assembly so as to direct the light from the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: lo Lighting
    Inventors: Ann Reo, Graeme Watt
  • Patent number: 7156545
    Abstract: The invention relates to a headlamp for a motor vehicle, comprising a housing enclosing a light source, fixed on a chassis, together with means for connecting the housing to the chassis, these means being deformable in a plastic way and capable of absorbing at least part of the energy of an impact on the headlamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: Valeo Vision
    Inventor: Philippe Arlon
  • Patent number: 7131763
    Abstract: A display comprises a panel, a light-guide plate, a lamp, and a back-bezel. The light-guide plate has a back-end, a front-end, an upper-surface, and a bottom-surface. The upper-surface faces the panel. The lamp is disposed at the back-end. The light generated from the lamp enters the light-guide plate through the back-end and leaves for the panel through the upper-surface. The back-bezel is used for housing the lamp, the light-guide plate and the panel, wherein an adhesive tape is disposed between the back-bezel and the front-end of the light-guide plate. Also, a cushion is disposed on the light-guide plate and the back-bezel, to carry the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Assignee: AU Optronics Corp.
    Inventor: Shue-Liang Lin
  • Patent number: 7077548
    Abstract: An assembly for a projector include a lamp having a base portion, a lamp mount coupled to the lamp, and a unitary compliant member. The unitary compliant member may be coupled between the lamp mount and the lamp with substantially evenly spaced points of contact about the base portion of the lamp. The unitary compliant member supplies an axial force through a center of mass of the lamp to couple the lamp to the lamp mount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: Infocus Corporation
    Inventor: Gary Dennis Basey
  • Patent number: 7073921
    Abstract: An anti-shock flashlight comprising a body, where there is an empty compartment inside. There is a male component on the top of the body. There is an anti-shock system comprising a holder, a headpiece and a spring. The holder slides onto the body, the headpiece is suspended on the top of the body; and the spring is fixed between the holder and the headpiece. There is also a light head device comprising a head screw and a light head. There is a female component, which is screwed onto the male component on the front of the body, on the head screw. The light head comprising a light bulb and a base is placed on the top of the interior of the headpiece. The base is suspended on the top of the interior of the body, in order to reduce recoil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: Pentagon Scientific Corporation
    Inventor: Joy Chen
  • Patent number: 7040793
    Abstract: An automobile lamp assembly that exhibits improved energy absorption characteristics as compared with known automobile lamp assemblies having a resiliently deformable flexure member positioned between a lens member and a housing member includes a flexure member that is configured to dynamically change its energy absorption characteristics during impact. More specifically, various geometries and/or materials are utilized to dynamically control deformation during impact and reduce damage and/or injury during an impact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: Lacks Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Lee A. Chase
  • Patent number: 7040787
    Abstract: The invention provides a signaling device for a motor vehicle, the signaling device being constituted by a skin of translucent material presenting an outside face to be seen from outside the vehicle when said device is mounted on the vehicle, and an inside face opposite the outside face. Projecting from its inside face, translucent skin has at least one rib made integrally with the skin and out of the same translucent material as the skin. The thickness of the rib is greater than the thickness of the translucent skin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: Compagnie Plastic Omnium
    Inventors: Maelig Pommeret, Fabien Delwal
  • Patent number: 7029154
    Abstract: The invention relates to a motor vehicle headlight, which comprises a casing enclosing a light source and fixed on a chassis, as well as frangible means of linking the casing to the chassis, which are able to absorb in the course of their rupture at least part of the energy of an impact suffered by the headlight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Valeo Vision
    Inventors: Philippe Arlon, Laurence Marechal, Pascal Harand, Jean-Paul Ravier
  • Patent number: 7018080
    Abstract: Shaped neon light spark plug connectors which include a continuous length of neon tubing fitted with electrodes at each end and configured to extend between and connect to the spark plug and coil of a motorcycle engine. The spark plug connectors are each characterized by a continuous, shaped neon tube light source that pulsates and flickers with operation of the engine at low engine speeds and displays a substantially continuous glow of a selected color at higher engine speeds. A specially designed jig is provided for bending the heated neon tubing into the desired configuration and fitting it between the spark plug and the coil locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Inventor: Kevin L. Alexander
  • Patent number: 7004605
    Abstract: An illumination device comprising, in combination an elongated housing, an elongated lamp or lamps extending in the housing, a magnetic ballast or ballasts carried in the housing to selectively energize the lamp or lamps, and switch means carried by the housing to control energization of said ballast or ballasts, the housing having a forward illumination portion, a rearward grip portion and an intermediate portion. A cushioning cover is receivable over two of said housing portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: National Electric Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventor: James M. Galvez
  • Patent number: 6976762
    Abstract: A tubular Electro-Luminescent panel(s) light device offers superior bending characteristics with super brightness by integrating a predetermined width of panel with a proper circuit system. The panel(s) have narrow width to fit within tube means while enabling the panel(s) to be bent in any direction and angle because the panel(s) may freely move within the tube. The said panel(s) can be twisted within the tube means, and the tube means may have a desired colored, transparency, coil number, density, wall thickness, diameter, shape, and length, and be designed so that the light beam can be visible 0-360 degrees around the tube. The device may be incorporated with non-elastic means, magnetic means, a tube holder, inner tube(s) ,outer tube(s), conductive bus means, sensor means, and integrated circuitry to add a lot of desired features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2005
    Inventor: Tseng-Lu Chien
  • Patent number: 6939028
    Abstract: A rear lighting device for a motorcycle is disclosed. The rear lighting device is mounted on a rear fender that covers a rear wheel of the motorcycle. The rear lighting device includes a flasher stay that is mounted on the rear fender through a stay bracket, and flashers mounted on right and left mounting end sections of the flasher stay. The flasher stay includes a mounting plane surface section provided in a generally central area of the flasher stay along its length direction and right and left end sections on both sides of the mounting plane surface section. The mounting plane surface section is defined by a plate like section that is generally flat in a direction perpendicular to the length direction of the flasher stay, and the mounting plane section extends generally horizontally as the flasher stay is mounted on the stay bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Takehiro Miyamoto
  • Patent number: 6929379
    Abstract: A lantern is provided that comprises a case having a plurality of walls defining a case interior. The plurality of walls includes opposing front and rear walls. A lighting port is formed through the front wall and a faceplate assembly is disposed in the case interior in substantial registration with the lighting port. The faceplate assembly is disposed so that it engages a portion of the front wall surrounding the lighting port to seal the lighting port. A solid-state illuminator assembly is disposed in the case interior in substantial registration with the faceplate assembly and in contact with the faceplate assembly. A bracing arrangement is disposed intermediate the solid-state illuminator assembly and the rear wall. The bracing arrangement is in contact with the solid-state illuminator assembly and is configured to restrict rearward movement of the solid-state illuminator assembly and the faceplate assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Assignee: Northrop Grumman Corporation
    Inventors: Kurt J. Clemente, John M. Vrooman
  • Patent number: 6902300
    Abstract: A back light assembly for a liquid crystal display device includes at least one or more diffusion plate supporting members disposed between a reflection sheet and a diffusion plate, and having a complex structure including an elastic material in contact with the diffusion plate, the diffusion plate supporting member preventing the diffusion plate from dropping down.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: LG. Philips LCD Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Joung Jae Lee
  • Patent number: 6902295
    Abstract: An illumination device comprising, in combination an elongated housing, at least two elongated lamps extending in the housing, one or two magnetic ballasts carried in the housing to selectively energize the lamp or lamps, and switch means carried by the housing to control energization of said one or two ballasts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: National Electric Manufacturing
    Inventor: James M. Galvez
  • Publication number: 20040228125
    Abstract: An illumination device comprising, in combination an elongated housing, at least two elongated lamps extending in the housing, one or two magnetic ballasts carried in the housing to selectively energize the lamp or lamps, and switch means carried by the housing to control energization of said one or two ballasts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2003
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Inventor: James M. Galvez
  • Patent number: 6776512
    Abstract: To replace an old lamp unit, first, resilient projections are pushed outward through engaging holes of a resin frame with some tool and the lamp unit is pulled out through a lamp unit guide hole. Then, a new lamp unit is inserted with the resilient projections deformed to the lamp side by utilizing their resiliency. When the lamp unit is inserted to the regular position, the projections are opposed to the respective engaging holes of the resin frame and return to their original shapes because of their resiliency to go into the respective holes. As a result, the lamp unit is positioned with respect to the resin frame and fixed to the latter. Even when external impact acts on the liquid crystal display device, the lamp unit does not fall off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2004
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Advanced Display
    Inventors: Akihiro Mori, Seiji Sakai
  • Publication number: 20040136195
    Abstract: An automobile lamp assembly that exhibits improved energy absorption characteristics as compared with known automobile lamp assemblies having a resiliently deformable flexure member positioned between a lens member and a housing member includes a flexure member that is configured to dynamically change its energy absorption characteristics during impact. More specifically, various geometries and/or materials are utilized to dynamically control deformation during impact and reduce damage and/or injury during an impact.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Lee A. Chase
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20040105269
    Abstract: The invention is an improvement of the light-source mechanism for an optical scanner. Its comprising structure mainly includes a chassis, a lamp, and a lamp holder. A buffering device is provided between the chassis and the lamp holder. When the buffering device is subjected to an external force of impact and vibration, it may effectively absorb the influence of the external force, such that the lamp will not be damaged and the completeness of the lamp may be maintained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2002
    Publication date: June 3, 2004
    Inventors: Yin-Chun Huang, Po-Hua Fang, Shu-Ya Chiang
  • Publication number: 20040080954
    Abstract: A track mount for securing an electronic circuit board has an elongated base with two stepped sides extending in opposition therefrom. Each stepped side forms a ledge and a vertical extension. A plurality of periodic catches exists along the vertical extension and are spaced from the ledge to a width at least as great as the width of a circuit board. A circuit board is retained between a catch and the ledge thereby mounted to the track mount. Since the catches are not continuous, a circuit board can be removed without placing undue stress on the track mount structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2003
    Publication date: April 29, 2004
    Inventor: Kenneth D. Eisenbruan
  • Publication number: 20040052081
    Abstract: A light source steadying assembly which fixes the relative distance between the lighting device and the transparent device by the elastic structure, such that all deformations induced by assembly and operation are absorbed. The elastic structure could be located in the gap between the chassis and the lighting device or in the gap between the lighting device and the transparent device. Further, the connecting structure is optional to be located in the gap without the elastic structure such that the angle between the transparent device and the lighting device is further fixed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2002
    Publication date: March 18, 2004
    Inventors: Chun-I Hsiao, Chen-Ho Lee
  • Publication number: 20040042219
    Abstract: A vehicle-mounted light has a vibration isolator configured to support a reflector within an interior of a light housing. The vibration isolator is formed from a resilient, vibration-absorbing material and includes generally annular front and rear sections spaced apart and interconnected by a generally cylindrical central section. The vibration isolator may be snugly fitted over a radially extending rim of the reflector such that when the reflector and vibration isolator are inserted within the housing, the vibration isolator forms a vibration absorbing interface between the housing and the reflector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2002
    Publication date: March 4, 2004
    Applicant: Let's Roll, Inc.
    Inventor: Lawrence Hatfield
  • Patent number: 6695463
    Abstract: A vehicle-mounted light has a vibration isolator configured to support a reflector within an interior of a light housing. The vibration isolator is formed from a resilient, vibration-absorbing material and includes generally annular front and rear sections spaced apart and interconnected by a generally cylindrical central section. The vibration isolator may be snugly fitted over a radially extending rim of the reflector such that when the reflector and vibration isolator are inserted within the housing, the vibration isolator forms a vibration absorbing interface between the housing and the reflector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: Let's Roll, Inc.
    Inventor: Lawrence Hatfield, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20040012971
    Abstract: An illuminating device mainly includes a tube-like lamp disposed in a main body. The tube-like lamp has two terminal portions adapted for electrically connecting to a power source and a bending portion between the terminal portions. The main body is provided with a support having two hooked portions configured to support the tube-like lamp. The present invention further provides another tube-like lamp characterized by having a buffer part securely attached on the bending portion for lessening or absorbing the shock of an impact on the tube-like lamp. The support may has a gap between the hooked portions such that the tube-like lamp fit with sufficient tightness into the gap between the hooked portions thereby immobilizing the tube-like lamp more efficiently and absorbing the shock.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2002
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Applicant: Chi Mei Optoelectronics Corp.
    Inventors: Yi Te Tsai, Hung Ching Lee, Chou Yu Kang, Han Ping Lin
  • Publication number: 20040012970
    Abstract: A lamp protection device of an optical image scanner is disclosed. The lamp protection device comprises a chassis having a lamp holder and a lamp therein and buffer means for absorbing shock on lamp. The chassis moves under a transparent sheet of the optical image scanner and scan a document places on the transparent sheet. The buffer means for absorbing shock on lamp contact and provides the lamp with damping when said chassis end scanning and is locked.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2002
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Applicant: UMAX DATA SYSTEMS INC.
    Inventors: Yin-Chun Huang, Shu-Ya Chiang, Po-Hua Fang
  • Patent number: 6666566
    Abstract: An emergency device includes a housing having a lamp end and a rear distal end, with a gripping area therebetween. A mounting area is provided on the housing at the distal end, with the mounting area being generally perpendicular to a length direction of the housing. A glass breaking spike is mounted on the mounting area. In use, the flashlight is propelled towards a glass pane so that the glass breaking spike strikes the glass pane at an impact point. Since inertial energy of the flashlight and flashlight batteries is also concentrated in the glass breaking spike, inertial forces are transferred to the glass breaker and assist in propelling the glass breaker into the pane of glass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Assignee: Underwater Kinetics
    Inventor: Alan K. Uke
  • Patent number: 6652131
    Abstract: A motor vehicle having a lamp unit which is arranged on the outwardly facing end of a supporting structure of the vehicle, the arrangement of the lamp unit including an energy-absorbing deformation element which surrounds the circumference of an associated reflector and as a consequence of being supported axially on an opposite surface of the supporting structure collapses, with a reduction in length, when subjected to excessive impact stress, and the reflector forming a constructional unit together with a transparent lens and a lamp housing. The lamp housing itself is designed as an energy-absorbing deformation element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AG
    Inventors: Karl-Heinz Baumann, Ulrich Bruhnke
  • Patent number: 6641276
    Abstract: A lighting device which is arranged on motor vehicles and/or in interiors of motor vehicles is proposed. It includes an electroluminescent layer assembly comprising at least one first electrode layer, a dielectric layer, an electroluminescent luminous layer and a transparent second electrode layer, wherein the electroluminescent layer assembly is arranged on a support and/or in a frame and the electrode layers are connected to an a.c. voltage control device. Preferably the electroluminescent layer assembly with the support and/or frame as well as the a.c. voltage control device with components and wiring arranged on a printed circuit board which is connected to the support and/or simultaneously constructed as a support for the electroluminescent layer assembly, and if necessary a transparent cover covering the electroluminescent layer assembly, form a compact structural unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Assignee: Magna Reflex Holding GmbH
    Inventors: David Macher, Heinz Ziorn, Johann Stark, Raimund Fritzl
  • Publication number: 20030151925
    Abstract: The present invention provides a solution to where many types of vehicle lamps used on and off roads is subject to considerable vibration and impact, which the lamps shifts, rotates, come loose or pop out of the mounting fixture, flange or application where they are secured to. With the use of the Lamp Alignment-Locking Assembly features will secure the lamps to the fixture or direct to the application and can also secure to the fixture to the application if a fixture is used, which will solve the many problems when vehicle lamps are subject to vibration or impact in vehicle or non-vehicle applications used on and off the roadways.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Paul D. Crunk
  • Patent number: 6558033
    Abstract: The invention relates to a novel vibration proof lamp unit meant especially for demanding operating conditions. The invention relates also to a method for manufacturing the vibration proof lamp unit. The lamp unit embodiment according to the present invention can be utilized on vehicles, such as cars, busses, trucks, farm tractors, aeroplanes or on other mobile devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Inventors: Jari Ruuttu, Filip Törnroos
  • Patent number: 6547427
    Abstract: The invention relates to a lighting system for a motor vehicle, said lighting system comprising a frame (20) suitable for supporting at least one lighting lamp (4, 5), a housing containing the frame and its lamp, and a structural piece (3) of the vehicle, which piece is suitable internally for supporting parts of the vehicle, and externally for supporting elements of the bodywork of the vehicle. The housing is an integral part of the structural piece (3), which, for this purpose, is provided with a bowl-shaped recess that can receive the frame and its lamp directly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Compagnie Plastic Omnium
    Inventors: Hugues Cheron, Arnold Fayt, Fabien Delwal
  • Publication number: 20030043569
    Abstract: To replace an old lamp unit, first, resilient projections are pushed outward through engaging holes of a resin frame with some tool and the lamp unit is pulled out through a lamp unit guide hole. Then, a new lamp unit is inserted with the resilient projections deformed to the lamp side by utilizing their resiliency. When the lamp unit is inserted to the regular position, the projections are opposed to the respective engaging holes of the resin frame and return to their original shapes because of their resiliency to go into the respective holes. As a result, the lamp unit is positioned with respect to the resin frame and fixed to the latter. Even when external impact acts on the liquid crystal display device, the lamp unit does not fall off.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Applicant: Kabushiki Kaisha Advanced Display
    Inventors: Akihiro Mori, Seiji Sakai
  • Publication number: 20030039118
    Abstract: The portable lighting device of the present invention includes a casing defining a battery compartment. The battery compartment may be lined with a shock absorbing material and may be configured to receive a plurality of batteries arranged in at least two rows that are offset with respect to one another. The casing may define two support surfaces with one inclined with respect to the other. A battery cartridge may be used in the lighting device that has a pivoting handle to aid in removal of the cartridge from the battery compartment. A reflector isolator may also be employed to reduce mechanical shock transferred to the lamp. A lantern so constructed can withstand drops of up to 15 feet or more.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2001
    Publication date: February 27, 2003
    Inventors: Scott W. Osiecki, Mark A. Ferguson, David A. Furth, Ronald J Kingston
  • Publication number: 20030016541
    Abstract: An aircraft landing light assembly having a resilient vibration dampening mounting system for absorbing propeller and engine induced fuselage vibrations and the like for preventing premature vibrational induced lamp failure. Light assembly includes forward and rear rings that engage opposite faces of the rim of a sealed beam lamp located between the two rings. A resilient O-ring sits in the forward ring. Four cylindrically-shaped shock damper mounts sit in tapered wells on the back of the rear ring for protecting the sealed beam lamp from premature vibrational lamp failure, as well as for fastening the light assembly together and to the aircraft mounting bracket. Shock damper mounts include an enlarged cylindrically-shaped resilient damper material having a threaded headless screw located on each end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2001
    Publication date: January 23, 2003
    Inventor: Henry J. Kisiel
  • Patent number: 6502973
    Abstract: A headlamp assembly for mounting a headlamp structure on a vehicle frame in a manner to minimize the vibration transmitted to the headlamp. The assembly includes an annular base member that is mounted to the vehicle frame with an opening sufficiently large to receive and surround the base of the headlamp structure without touching the base of the headlamp structure. A plurality of flat metal springs are attached by one end to the annular base at regular spaced intervals and the headlamp structure is attached to the other end of the shaped, flat springs. The springs hold the headlamp structure within the annular base substantially isolated from vibrations that would injure the filaments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: Chic H. Lam
  • Patent number: 6502974
    Abstract: A lamp assembly provides an integrated flexure member/bezel extending between a lamp lens and a housing for the lamp reflector. The flexure member has forward and rearward peripheral edges shaped to conform to the mating shapes of the lens and housing, respectively, for holding the elements together. The flexural member has internal surfaces which extend rearwardly toward the reflector surrounding the edges of the reflector such that no gaps are visually present and which can be metalized such that the overall lamp assembly has a shiny appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: Lacks Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Lee A. Chase, Jason A. Gilliam
  • Publication number: 20020191414
    Abstract: A headlamp assembly for mounting a headlamp structure on a vehicle frame in a manner to minimize the vibration transmitted to the headlamp. The assembly includes an annular base member that is mounted to the vehicle frame with an opening sufficiently large to receive and surround the base of the headlamp structure without touching the base of the headlamp structure. A plurality of flat metal springs are attached by one end to the annular base at regular spaced intervals and the headlamp structure is attached to the other end of the shaped, flat springs. The springs hold the headlamp structure within the annular base substantially isolated from vibrations that would injure the filaments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2001
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Inventor: Chic H. Lam
  • Publication number: 20020172037
    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: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2001
    Publication date: November 21, 2002
    Inventors: David M. Schnaufer, Thomas B. Crates
  • Patent number: 6478456
    Abstract: Headlamp, in particular for motor vehicles, with a headlamp housing that can be inserted into a housing receiver from the front, whereby—in the event of a defined impact in a longitudinal direction that exceeds a specific force opposite to the driving direction—the headlamp housing is displaced within the housing receiver a predetermined energy-absorption path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Assignee: Hella KG Hueck & Co.
    Inventors: Henning Eichhorn, Christian Huether, Dirk Kersting, Roland Lachmayer, Bernd Mennen
  • Patent number: 6464380
    Abstract: A blade guide adapted to be attached to a snow plow blade comprising a mounting bracket for attachment to a snow plow blade, a member extending upwardly from the mounting bracket relative to the snow plow blade, and a light source operatively attached to the member for illuminating the blade guide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Inventor: Roy R. Young, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20020122312
    Abstract: Optical unit for an automotive vehicle, comprising a housing (5) suitable for being integral with a structural or bodywork element (2) of a vehicle, said housing (5) defining an interior and a main opening (13) facing the vehicle exterior, and a glass (15) suitable for being fixed to the housing (5) such as to close off at least partially said main opening (13) by means of fastening members (21, 22, 31, 32). The fastening members (21, 22, 31, 32) join the glass (15) together with the housing (5) with a substantially axial play relative to the vehicle axis, the play being defined between a normal working position and a retracted position of the glass (15).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2002
    Publication date: September 5, 2002
    Inventors: Sebastien Berne, Caroline Riviere
  • Publication number: 20020109986
    Abstract: A Compliant flexible connector for connecting together two members. The flexible connector is an elongate metal rod or wire made of a material having a relatively low melting point. The metal rod is capable of deforming to a desired shape such that it does not work harden as a result of the deformation. Because the flexible connector does not work harden, the connector will not fracture after successive plastic deformations. The flexible connector is made of sufficient stiffness so that the connector will maintain the desired shape after it is deformed. To achieve a desired stiffness the connector can be made of varying diameters or a plurality of connectors may be bundled together. The flexible connector may be formed of an electrically conductive material to form an electrical connection between two electrical components. The flexible connector may also be formed of hollow rods to permit passage of gas and fluids. A fiber optic core may also be disposed within the hollow rods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2001
    Publication date: August 15, 2002
    Inventor: Martin J. Siegel
  • Patent number: 6398393
    Abstract: An illuminated, folding, foot peg having electronic circuitry for controlling the illumination of the foot peg and an electrical connection arrangement adapted to prevent fraying of the electrical connection during repeated folding of the foot peg. The foot peg having a top for placement of a foot, a bottom and front and rear sides; a foot peg mount for pivotally mounting the foot pet to the vehicle so that the foot peg is foldable from an operational position to a folded position; an illumination device located on at least one of the front and rear sides of the foot peg; vibration damping material supporting the illumination device at the foot peg; and electrical wiring for connecting the illumination device to an electrical system of the vehicle, the electrical wiring having an insulating coating. Sheathing surrounds the electrical wiring at least at the foot peg mount, for preventing fraying of the coating on the wiring to protect against short circuiting of the wiring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Inventor: Joey Lynn Perse
  • Patent number: 6371631
    Abstract: The radiation source is provided with the lamps 3 for irradiating the inner walls 2 of the long hollow cavities 1 with continuous movement of the radiation along the axis 4 of the cavity 1, in particular for curing radiation-curable synthetic-resin laminates in conjunction with the restoration of pipes and sewer ducts by means of UV-radiation, comprising a chassis having a plurality of lamps 3 arranged on its circumference, whereby the chassis has a central support extending in the direction of the axis, the support being supported by means of the guide wheels 5, 6 on the inner wall 2 of the cavity 1 on the shock-absorbing struts 7. The chassis has an axial, centrally arranged threaded spindle 8, and the guide wheel 5, 6 are mounted with a lamp 33 and the temperature sensors 9 on a chassis frame, whereby the one end of the shock-absorbing strut 7 is pivot-mounted on the guide wheel 5, 6, and the other end on a receiving block 11 running on the threaded spindle 8.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: UV Reline.Tec GmbH & Co.
    Inventor: Thomas Reutemann