Patents by Inventor Thomas A. Waltz

Thomas A. Waltz 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).

  • Publication number: 20060203491
    Abstract: This light modifier assembly is a continuous light source for still and video imagemakers. More specifically, the continuous light source provides a constant light source for still, digital, video or high definition image capture. In a preferred embodiment, the light source comprises a multiplicity of lamps with a control configured to run multiple combinations of lamps together with no shift in color temperature and to set up multiple lighting ratios.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2006
    Publication date: September 14, 2006
    Inventors: Thomas Waltz, Kelly Mondora
  • Patent number: 6808295
    Abstract: A light modifier mounting assembly includes an outer frame which is rotatably connected to an interchangeable adapter ring. The adapter rings have different sizes of light openings. One of the adapter rings is mounted on the lighting fixture. A soft tent modifier includes a plurality of rods which define the shape of the tent. The ends of the rods are connected to the rotatable outer frame. The image maker may also rotate the light modifier during use without disassembly of the mounting assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2004
    Assignee: F. J. Westcott Company
    Inventors: Thomas A. Waltz, Kelly Mondora
  • Publication number: 20030086272
    Abstract: A light modifier mounting assembly includes an outer frame which is rotatably connected to an interchangeable adapter ring. The adapter rings have different sizes of light openings. One of the adapter rings is mounted on the lighting fixture. A soft tent modifier includes a plurality of rods which define the shape of the tent. The ends of the rods are connected to the rotatable outer frame. The image maker may also rotate the light modifier during use without disassembly of the mounting assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Applicant: F. J. Westcott Company
    Inventors: Thomas A. Waltz, Kelly Mondora
  • Patent number: 6513955
    Abstract: A light modifier for use with a light source has a frame defining a plane that is spaced apart from a face of the light source. The frame has at least one side member extending from the frame in a direction toward the light source. A locking mechanism is operably attached to the side member for releasably locking the frame into an open position. The frame is collapsible to a closed position inside a cover. The cover has at least one pocket for receiving a light diffusion member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: F. J. Westcott Company
    Inventor: Thomas A. Waltz
  • Patent number: 4855874
    Abstract: A light modifier is disclosed that is intended to be used primarily for photographic purposes. The light modifier is used in conjunction with a light source to provide various types of diffused light for photographic purposes. The light modifier includes an inflatable structure having a translucent panel and a reflective panel. A passageway is connected to the inflatable structure and the passageway is in communication with the interior of the inflatable structure. The passageway is disposed for supplying a fluid under pressure to the interior of the inflatable structure. At least one closeable opening is positioned in the inflatable structure to provide access to the interior of the light modifier. A light source can be mounted in the interior of the light modifier. The light source can be aimed directly at the translucent panel or first reflected off the reflective panel to diffuse the light even more before it passes through the translucent panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 8, 1989
    Assignee: The F. J. Westcott Company
    Inventor: Thomas A. Waltz
  • Patent number: 4757425
    Abstract: A photographic light diffuser is disclosed having a support rod and collapsible frame with a plurality of ribs and stretchers. The frame in the open position defines an opening that is substantially square or rectangular. The frame is covered by a reflective panel and a translucent panel is connected to the reflective panel and positioned over the opening defined by the frame to define an enclosed chamber for receiving a light source. Access to the interior of the enclosed chamber is provided by one or more closeable openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1985
    Date of Patent: July 12, 1988
    Assignee: The F. J. Westcott Co.
    Inventor: Thomas A. Waltz
  • Patent number: 4633374
    Abstract: A photographic light diffuser is disclosed having a support rod and collapsible frame with a plurality of ribs and stretchers. The frame and support rod are covered by a translucent panel at one end and a reflective panel at the other end which together define an interior chamber for receiving a light source. Access to the interior is provided by one or more closeable openings in the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 1985
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1986
    Assignee: The F. J. Westcott Co.
    Inventors: Thomas A. Waltz, John E. Shirilla
  • Patent number: D509954
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Assignee: F.J. Westcott Company
    Inventor: Thomas A. Waltz