Abstract: In this invention, pulse generating means is adapted to emit a high-frequency pulse signal of a fixed duty ratio and a discharge tube is lighted by means of this pulse signal. The frequency of the pusle emitted by the pulse generating means is adjustable by adjusting means. Thus, one discharge tube lighting device of this invention can be used interchangeably for lighting discharge tubes varying in capacity. The lighting device is further capable of effecting adjustment of light in a wide range. Further, sequential potential forming means is adapted to allow a plurality of discharge tubes to be sequentially lighted with intervals. When a plurality of discharge tubes are to be lighted, therefore, the rectifying means necessary for the lighting is allowed to have only a small capacity. The high-voltage applying means for applying high voltage to the discharge tubes are connected to the electrodes disposed at the opposite terminals of the discharge tubes with connecting wires joined one each to the electrodes.

Abstract: For a starting device to acquire an ability to start a discharge tube efficiently, allow the light from the discharge tube to be regulated effectively over a wide range, and fit versatile use with discharge tubes of a varying kind, this invention causes the frequency of pulses of a fixed duty ratio issued by pulse generating means to be freely adjusted by adjusting means and consequently enables high-voltage applying means to apply a high voltage of a frequency proper for the pulses to the discharge tube and effect efficient and stable start of the discharge tube. Since the frequency of high voltage for application to the discharge tube is adjusted by the adjusting means, the regulation of light is attained over a wide range and the starting device itself is enabled to fit versatile use with discharge tubes of a varying kind.

Abstract: A combustion apparatus including a housing formed with an opening, a combustion tube provided in the opening, a reflector disposed rearwardly of the combustion tube, and at least one heat shielding plate disposed between the combustion tube and a top plate of the housing such that at least one gap for allowing convected air to flow therethrough is defined between the heat shielding plate and the top plate. Furthermore, a front end of the heat shielding plate is projected forwardly of the top plate.

Abstract: This invention provides a wick type burner equipped with a manual fire extinguishing means for pushing up a lever (37) through an intermediary of a pin (43) by the operation of a manual fire extinguisher (41), thereby disengaging it from the first locking part (33a), to permit the wick (24) to go down until it engages with the second locking part (33b) and a quake fire extinguishing means for pushing up the lever (37) by means of the flange (39a) as the weight (39) has fallen down, causing the wick (24) to go down deeper without encountering the first locking part (33a) and the second locking part (33b), so that while the safety is assured by effecting fire extinguishment in short time in an emergency as when an earthquake occurs, etc.