Patents by Inventor Steven R. Gerke

Steven R. Gerke 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: 5580158
    Abstract: A retrofit unit for replacing conventional incandescent light bulbs with fluorescent tubes. A retrofit ballast and a fluorescent tube receptable are adapted to be used in conjunction with conventional light fixtures, including surface mounted or recessed fixtures. The retrofit conversion from incandescent light sources to fluorescent tubes (or the like) is accomplished without removing or replacing the existing incandescent fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1996
    Inventors: Truman R. Aubrey, Steven R. Gerke
  • Patent number: 4956758
    Abstract: One end of an elongated beaded chain is secured in a screw base with a spring loaded connection. The chain extends downward through a central opening in a cover and in a reflector. The opening in the reflector includes a locking slot into which the chain can be placed. After the screw base is threaded into a conventional socket, the chain is passed through the opening as the reflector is drawn up into the opening for the existing recessed fixture. The fixture includes a trim ring which is placed against the ceiling which surrounds the recessed fixture. The chain is then pulled down against the spring in the screw base, pulled to the side into engagement with the slot portion of the opening, and released. The spring pulls upwardly on the chain and seats the new fixture snugly against the ceiling. The spring provides a small amount of flexibility to adjust for expansion and contraction due to temperature, normal structural vibrations, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 11, 1990
    Assignee: Janice Industries
    Inventors: Truman R. Aubrey, Steven R. Gerke