Abstract: A compact electrodeless fluorescent lamp has an A-line configuration including a globular upper portion which becomes narrower toward a lower portion, terminating in a narrow end. The narrow end of the A-line envelope is connected to a base. The alternating current energy source is electrically connected through the base, via a ballast, to the excitation coil. The ballast is integral with the lamp and is contained substantially within the re-entrant cavity.

Abstract: An integrated starting and running amalgam assembly for an electrodeless SEF fluorescent lamp includes a wire mesh amalgam support constructed to jointly optimize positions of a starting amalgam and a running amalgam in the lamp, thereby optimizing mercury vapor pressure in the lamp during both starting and steady-state operation in order to rapidly achieve and maintain high light output. The wire mesh amalgam support is constructed to support the starting amalgam toward one end thereof and the running amalgam toward the other end thereof, and the wire mesh is rolled for friction-fitting within the exhaust tube of the lamp. The positions of the starting and running amalgams on the wire mesh are jointly optimized such that high light output is achieved quickly and maintained, while avoiding any significant reduction in light output between starting and running operation.

Abstract: At least one amalgam, which is disposed within the lamp envelope of an electrodeless fluorescent lamp to control mercury vapor pressure, is mechanically supported by an amalgam support arrangement in a manner non-invasive to the lamp envelope. The amalgam support arrangement supports one or more amalgams in a "flag" configuration and includes a support member, one end of which is configured for friction-fitting within the exhaust tube opening. The flag may be configured as a wire mesh or spiral-shaped wire, for example. Exemplary configurations for this end of the support member include a U-shape, spiral, zig-zag, or tubular configuration.

Abstract: An electrodeless fluorescent reflector lamp has a discharge vessel containing a fill, a solenoid in a reentrant and indium on the inner wall of the vessel acting as a primary amalgam. A secondary amalgam of indium may be provided on the reentrant.The primary amalgam is preferably under an insulative skirt. The vessel has a light reflective coating on the inner wall under the skirt.The exhaust tube is tipped off at the proximal end of the reentrant or is omitted, the vessel being tipped off at the distal end of the reentrant.

Abstract: For a given lamp size and lumen power, an electrodeless fluorescent lamp is configured with a split excitation coil and a baffle structure to provide multiple discharges, resulting in a higher light output and higher luminous efficacy.