Abstract: A solar powered lighting fixture having a multi-paneled solar array that maximizes the generation of solar energy during the course of a day. The outdoor lighting fixture of the present invention includes a multi-paneled solar array housing positioned on an extension rod that includes a plurality of solar panels arranged in a slanted configuration about the periphery of the housing unit. The housing unit is positioned on the extension rod so as to be elevated above the ground but below the actual light fixture. Employing a housing unit separate from the light fixture permits a greater variety of shapes to be used for the light fixture. Moreover, it allows the individual solar panels to be positioned at an optimal angle for maximizing exposure to solar radiation. Each of the solar panels is independent of the others, charging the battery separately so as not interfere with the other solar panels.

Abstract: The outdoor lighting fixture of the present invention provides a solar powered lighting fixture having one or more light emitting diodes whose luminance or brightness may be selectively adjusted by the user. The outdoor lighting system includes a dimmer switch mechanism in its electronic circuitry that allows a user to vary the luminance of the emitting diodes. In one embodiment, the dimmer switch mechanism modulates the pulse width of electricity provided to the one or more light emitting diodes. In another embodiment, the dimmer switch mechanism modulates the frequency of the one or more light emitting diodes. By adjusting the brightness of the light emitting diodes the operational time of the lighting fixture may also be modified.

Abstract: An LED bulb assembly device having thermal management features. The device and methods for its manufacture are provided. The device consists of a machined base element that accepts a circuit board, a divider element, a heatsink element, and an LED assembly. The LED assembly includes a plurality of LEDs, but typically nine or eighteen. A reflector element encloses the internal components by positively engaging the base element. External electrical contact pins provide for electrical engagement with a compatible decorative lighting fixture.

Abstract: A high-brightness LED lamp with battery conservation and solar charging features. The portable, self-contained lamp utilizes one or more high-brightness LEDs to provide area or decorative illumination. A solar cell charging device maintains the rechargeable batteries during the daytime with available ambient light. An electronic control circuit conserves battery power by limiting the period of time that the LEDs are energized during nighttime hours when ambient lighting conditions cannot support the recharging function. A photodetector device allows the control circuit to make this determination.

Abstract: An outdoor lighting fixture having a composite lens assembly that includes a transparent liner or sleeve having a translucent mosaic covering composed of a plurality of glass shards having a grout compound infused in the interstices between the plurality of glass shards. The transparent liner is a thin-walled cup having a shape that is symmetrical about its vertical axis and is open at its upper end. The transparent liner may have a frusto-conical, cylindrical, parabolic, hemi-spherical shape or any combination thereof. While the liner or sleeve is preferably transparent, other embodiments may be colored or frosted translucent to provide differing illumination effects. In addition, while the exterior and interior surfaces of the transparent liner are preferably smooth, in other embodiments they may be textured. A novel two-step process for manufacturing the composite lens assembly is also disclosed.