Patents by Inventor Ryan J. Rand

Ryan J. Rand has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 6521879
    Abstract: A system and method for controlling light emitted by a group of independent strings of LEDs in an LED backlight for a flat panel LCD display, in which optical feedback is used to increase a light output of remaining strings of LEDs when a string fails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2003
    Assignee: Rockwell Collins, Inc.
    Inventors: Ryan J. Rand, Gary D. Bishop
  • Patent number: 6392358
    Abstract: The present invention is a system and method for directing the flow of current supplied for a collection of light emitting diodes to provide for rapid flashing of the light emitting diodes and a wide dimming range. A fixed amount of current may be available to the collection of light emitting diodes where the flow of the current may be controlled by an alternating periodic signal such that current passes through the light emitting diodes for predefined and discrete periods. During periods of time that current is not flowing through light emitting diodes, the current may be directed to flow in another area of the circuit. The duty cycle of the signal may be adjusted in order to vary the dimming capability of the backlight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Assignee: Rockwell Collins, Inc.
    Inventors: Albert L. Runau, Ryan J. Rand
  • Patent number: 6366350
    Abstract: A light reflector for use with a light source and a light detection mechanism is disclosed. The light source and the light detection mechanism are mounted on a substrate. The light reflector includes a generally hollow portion having a first end and a second end. A reflective surface is disposed upon the first end of the generally hollow portion. The second end is attached to the substrate such that the substrate and the light reflector define a substantially airtight enclosure that is of sufficient size to accommodate therein the light source and the light detection mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Assignee: Rockwell Collins, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas J. Thornburg, Ryan J. Rand