Abstract: In an example embodiment, there is disclosed herein an airfield lighting system that employs an IR emitter. The IR emitter can be located within an airfield lighting fixture or external to the lighting fixture. Activating the IR emitter can enable an Enhanced Flight Vision System (“EFVS”) to determine the location of lighting fixtures which may be undetectable by the EFVS, such as Light Emitting Diode (“LED”) fixtures.
Abstract: A system and method that contemplates operating an LED at its characterized current (e.g. 400 mA) for any luminous intensity. A Direct Current Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) signal is employed, wherein the pulse width of the pulse width modulated signal is used to control the luminous intensity of the LED. Optionally, the LED can be biased to reduce the intensity of the pulses used to operate the LED.
Abstract: Described in an example embodiment is an airfield light where the optical system can be easily removed, e.g., no tools. This allows maintenance of the optical system to be performed elsewhere, reducing the amount of time that airfield maintenance crews have to be spend on the field.
Abstract: A system and method that contemplates operating an LED at its characterized current (e.g. 400 mA) for any luminous intensity. A Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) is employed, wherein the pulse width of the pulse width modulated signal is used to control the luminous intensity of the LED. Optionally, the LED can be biased to reduce the intensity of the pulses used to operate the LED.
Abstract: A system and method for producing a flash of a desired intensity and duration utilizing devices of a lower intensity, such as light emitting diodes (LED's). The on period of the LED is lengthened so that the product of the LED's intensity and the on period is approximately equal to the product of the desired intensity and duration of the flash. A parameter for determining intensity, such as operating current or voltage, can be measured and the on period can be adjusted accordingly. The device can be turned on responsive to an external trigger signal, and a timer can be utilized to turn the device on if the external trigger signal is not received within a predetermined time.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
May 2, 2007
Date of Patent:
December 8, 2009
Assignee:
ADB Airfield Solutions, LLC
Inventors:
Alan Glenn Glassner, Richard Hansler, Edward Carome, Richard Schweder