Patents Issued in November 1, 2007
  • Publication number: 20070253177
    Abstract: A bypass capacitor is arranged at an end of a main surface of a circuit board. More specifically, the bypass capacitor is arranged at the end of the main surface of the circuit board such that conductor pattern is located closer to the end of the circuit board than earth pattern. In this position, an earth pattern and a through hole electrode do not surround an outer side of a power supply line. Arrangement of the bypass capacitor in this position can particularly suppress radiation noises that may emerge from a resonance end surface of the board. Therefore, it is possible to provide a circuit unit, a power supply bias circuit, an LNB and a transmitter capable of suppressing oscillation at a certain frequency that cannot be sufficiently suppressed by a conventional bypass capacitor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventor: Masayuki Nibe
  • Publication number: 20070253178
    Abstract: [PROBLEMS] To provide a fixing structure capable of adjusting the dimensions in the vertical direction of a vibration generating device including a circuit board in combination with the circuit board without reducing the size or the diameter of the vibration generation device. [MEANS FOR SOLVING PROBLEMS] A fixing holder in a holder shape for holding or including at least a part of the outer circumference of a vibration generating device has an inner circumferential surface substantially identical to the external shape of the vibration generating device. Groove-like rail parts are provided partially in the outer circumferential surface of the holder at the opposite ends thereof in the same linear direction, and the side end part of a notched circuit board or a part on the housing side of the apparatus is inserted into each of the groove-like rail parts, thus holding and securing the vibration generating device at an arbitrary vertical position against the surface of the circuit board in the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2005
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventors: Hidehiro Uchiumi, Kazuo Morita
  • Publication number: 20070253179
    Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments of, and accompanying methods relating to, one or more weakened zones provided inside a surface mount device perimeter of a printed circuit board. The one or more weakened zones facilitate removal of a surface mount device from the printed circuit board after the surface mount device has been attached to the printed circuit board with an adhesive. The devices and methods disclosed herein may also be employed when the surface mount device has not only been attached to a printed circuit by an adhesive but also by solder connecting the contacts or leads of the surface mount device to corresponding pads located on the printed circuit board.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2006
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventor: Randall Briggs
  • Publication number: 20070253180
    Abstract: This invent is an improved drawing easily slice for the interface car mainly for pulling out the interface card from the chassis of the computer and the main board easily, insides: there are several expansion slots on the main board; there is a fixing base on the chassis of the computer, and a lateral side on one side of the fixing base; the interface card includes: An inserting slice, it is used to be inserted into the expansion slot; A lateral side, a tetragonal bolt hole in it for the bolt to go through; A pushing piece, set a hole, and is fixed with the lateral side in swinging style. Also there are a pushing part and a supporting part on the pushing piece. The supporting part extends to the top of the lateral side, and the exerting part extends to the outside of the fixing slice, so it can be exerted easily and the supporting part can be swung a certain angle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2006
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventor: Ming-Huang Chiang
  • Publication number: 20070253181
    Abstract: Power distribution apparatus include a rack mountable housing, an electrical power input assembly and an electrical power output assembly including a plurality of external circuits adapted for hardwired to remote equipment and a plurality of internal circuits each adapted to receive a plug of electrical equipment and to provide power thereto. The plurality of internal circuits may include differently configured receptacles adapted to receive differently configured plugs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Applicant: S & S Power Engineering
    Inventor: Shamel Bersiek
  • Publication number: 20070253182
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a device for illuminating a keyboard or other portion of a PC main body unit of a portable computer (e.g., a convertible PC that can be used as a notebook PC or a tablet PC) by utilizing a center latch mechanism. An embodiment of the invention includes a latch provided in the vicinity of an upper edge of the cover unit, and a latch receiving portion provided in the main-body unit. When the cover unit is closed, the latch receiving portion is engaged with the latch to secure the main-body unit and the cover unit in a position where the cover unit is closed. A light source is embedded in the cover unit in the vicinity of the latch, and a light-reflecting surface provided on a surface of the latch so that, when the cover unit is open, light from the light source can be reflected to the keyboard to illuminate the keyboard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventors: Seiji Motai, Seiichi Idei, Taketoshi Kohno, Noboru Aoyama
  • Publication number: 20070253183
    Abstract: A light source device includes at least one dot-like light source, a substrate where the dot-like light source is arranged, and a reflection member which is arrange to be in contact with a light-emitting surface of the dot-like light source and cover the light-emitting surface. The reflection member further includes an opening to pass therethrough a beam emitted from the dot-like light source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventors: Toshiki ISHINO, Toshiyuki Okuma, Takaaki Nakabayashi, Yoshihiro Saito
  • Publication number: 20070253184
    Abstract: An improved lighting device for outdoor use comprises a lamp body, made of a polymeric material or other synthetic resin, and including a plurality of light emitting or phosphorescent material inserts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2006
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventor: Ariberto Tamborini
  • Publication number: 20070253185
    Abstract: A method and system are provided to illuminate an indicator, including indicators for electronic systems, appliances, and motor vehicle settings such as a visible temperature setting. Lighting efficiency is maximized, while light leaks, bright spots, shadows, internal reflections, color bleeds, and other undesirable visual effects are avoided. A lightbox having a cavity contains emitted light and transmits the light to an indicator. The indicator displays a system setting and an encoder varies the system setting. In an aspect, a light block and ramp are formed in the lightbox to uniformly dispense light to the indicator. A light dividing ridge formed in the lightbox separates the light dispensed to separate sections of the indicator. Further improvements include a tight fit formed between the indicator and a control knob, and a maximized indicator base area adjacent to the lightbox. The lightbox can also be integrated as part of a switchpad, reducing costs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2006
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventor: Anibal Palacio
  • Publication number: 20070253186
    Abstract: An exemplary backlight module (20) includes a bottom tray (280), a light guide plate (250), and a light source assembly (270). The bottom tray includes a bottom plate (281) and a pair of opposite holding arms (282) extending from the bottom plate. The light guide plate is provided on the bottom plate, and includes a light incident surface (252). The light source assembly includes a light source (271) located adjacent the light incident surface of the light guide plate and a reflective shell (272) accommodating the light source. The reflective shell includes two fixing arms (275) extending from two opposite ends thereof. The light source assembly is fixed to the bottom tray by engagement of the holding arms of the bottom tray and the fixing arms of the light source assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventors: Chih-Chung Hsiao, Yi-Fu Lin
  • Publication number: 20070253187
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a light sensitive illuminated exhibitor that assists in providing illumination for reading and viewing objects in low-light situations, such as restaurants and any other places where low light conditions make it difficult to read printed matter without additional lighting. The light sensitive illuminated exhibitor includes at least one illuminatable panel as well as a light source and battery. A microprocessor and light sensor, such as a photocell, may be included to adjust the intensity of the light source based on the lighting conditions present. When the microprocessor and light sensor are included, the life of the battery is extended because the battery is not used when the exterior lighting is sufficient by which to read. The battery may also be rechargeable. One or more illuminatable panels may be provided. An audio circuit, static or programmable, may be provided to play an audio message under certain circumstances.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventors: Howard Cohan, Chrissa Paloni
  • Publication number: 20070253188
    Abstract: An LED spotlight is made with at least one light emitting diode and a lens placed forward of the light emitting diode to collimate the light from the light emitting diode into a beam. The light emitting diode is preferably a type with a nominal power of at least 1 watt, requiring heatsinking, and having a nominal radiation pattern width of 100 degrees or more. The lens is preferably concavo-convex. The lens can have a thickness less than the distance between the rear surface of the lens and the light emitting diode. The LED spotlight can be mounted on headwear that would be worn on a person's head. The LED spotlight can be in the form of a flashlight. The LED spotlight can be in the form of an inspection lamp suitable for causing visible fluorescence of fluorescent materials, such as leaks of fluids that have suitable fluorescent dyes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventors: Donald KLIPSTEIN, Jack Brass, Robert Whitfield
  • Publication number: 20070253189
    Abstract: A switch device for an electrical appliance securable to a rail structure, a preferred embodiment of the switch device including a remote switch including a resilient or flexible housing having resilient members adapted to grasp a longitudinal rail of the rail structure for retaining the housing to the rail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventor: Paul Kim
  • Publication number: 20070253190
    Abstract: A light energy collection hand tool comprises a handle; a driving portion at one end of the handle; and an energy collection plate installed on the handle. The energy collection plate includes a solar energy plate on a surface of the handle, an energy storage unit; and a conductive unit connected to the energy storage unit. A light emitting unit is connected to the conductive unit; and thus electric power flows through the conductive unit will flow through the lighting emitting unit to light up the lighting emitting unit. The light emitting unit is one of a halogens bulb and a light emitting diode device. A slideable cover covers upon the electric power storage area. The metal conductive unit is arranged to be around an inner periphery of the handle; not only transferring electric energy, the conductive unit also generate heat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2006
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventor: Chih-Ching Hsieh
  • Publication number: 20070253191
    Abstract: This invention relates to a revolving, collapsible Christmas tree wherein the branches of the tree are arranged such that they can be folded for storage and returned to a outstretched position for display. This invention also relates to a revolving Christmas tree that incorporates at least two safety devices to prevent the possibility of the drive motor from over heating. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a Christmas tree that incorporates an audio system and a light projection system for the acoustic and visual pleasure of onlookers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2006
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventors: Sye Chin, John Chin, Frank Chin
  • Publication number: 20070253192
    Abstract: A rear trim ring for a vandal resistant luminaire having a round front and rear opening, the rear opening mounts flush to the surface onto which the luminaire is installed eliminating pry points between the luminaire and mounting surface, and an annular space between the rear trim ring and a luminaire housing provides room for the rear trim ring to deform upon the application of physical shock absorbing a portion of the shock applied thereto.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Applicant: GENLYTE THOMAS GROUP LLC
    Inventors: David S. Monteiro, Kenneth W. Biello, Dylan A. Akinrele, Thomas Russello
  • Publication number: 20070253193
    Abstract: An improved ceiling light fixture reflector is presented where the reflector is completely sealed to prevent any heated air from escaping through the fixture or its surrounds. The reflector also prevents cooled air from air conditioning from escaping through the fixture apertures. This improved insulation of ceiling lighting fixtures helps to eliminate the conversion of snow into ice on the surface of roofs due to the escape of moist, heated air through the ceiling and then to the roof, where it freezes into ice and expands thereby cracking the roof. During warmer months, this improved airtight lighting fixture also reduces cooled air losses and improves the air conditioning efficiency of buildings and saves energy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventor: Kenneth Lau
  • Publication number: 20070253194
    Abstract: A rechargeable flashlight is also provided. The flashlight includes a housing having a battery compartment and a light source adjacent a first end of the housing. A rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides power for the flashlight. A controller circuit serially connected with the battery is operable to control the flow of electricity to and from the battery. Specifically, the controller circuit is operable to disconnect the lithium-ion battery cell from the light source in response to the charge in the lithium-ion battery depleting below a pre-determined lower threshold. The control circuit is further operable to disconnect the lithium-ion battery cell from electrical connection with the first charging contact when the lithium-ion battery is connected with a battery charger and the charge in the lithium-ion battery reaches a pre-determined upper threshold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventors: Raymond Sharrah, Peter Ziegenfuss
  • Publication number: 20070253195
    Abstract: A flashlight and method for coupling the flashlight are disclosed. In an embodiment, the flashlight comprise a magnet, a battery, and an insulator. The flashlight further includes a housing in which the magnet, the battery, and the insulator are disposed. In addition, the flashlight includes a switch and a light. Moreover, the flashlight includes an electrical circuit between the battery, the switch, the light, and the magnet. The insulator prevents conduction of electricity from the electrical circuit to the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventor: Dan Dietz
  • Publication number: 20070253196
    Abstract: An aquarium lighting system includes an LED array that includes multiple white light LEDs and multiple blue light LEDs. A control system separately controls a) the intensity of white light output by the white LEDs, and b) the intensity of blue light output by the blue LEDs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2006
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Applicant: PFO Lighting
    Inventor: Patrick F. Ormiston
  • Publication number: 20070253197
    Abstract: A light-emitting diode light source system includes a plurality of light-emitting diode modules for providing light beams; a light-combining unit including a plurality of light incident sides and a light emerging side, the light beams from the light-emitting diode modules entering the light-combining unit via the light incident sides, respectively, and emerging out of the light-combining unit via the light emerging side; a plurality of primary lens units disposed between the light-emitting diode modules and the light incident sides, respectively; a secondary lens unit disposed to confront the light emerging side; and a focusing lens disposed adjacent to the secondary lens unit, the secondary lens unit being disposed between the light-combining unit and the focusing lens, the light beams from the light-emitting diode modules passing through the primary lens units, the light-combining unit, the secondary lens unit and the focusing lens to be projected onto a light valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventors: Chien-Ping Kung, Tzeng-Ke Shiau
  • Publication number: 20070253198
    Abstract: A system and method for illuminating is disclosed. The disclosed invention is fittable and usable in many conventional street lighting structures. The system includes a circuit board which includes a plurality of LEDs. Each end of the circuit board is insertable into a receiving structural member on each side. Each of the structural members are installable on an existing lens in the predisposed structure. Also included with the system is an Edison connector which electrically communicates with the circuit board so that the LEDs can be illuminated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventor: Steven John Pelegrin
  • Publication number: 20070253199
    Abstract: A vandal resistant luminaire having an electrical component housing with an outwardly extending rim separating a front portion from a rear portion; the front portion has a gasket ring about a front edge, at least one lamp socket, wiring, and associated electrical components contained therein; a shock absorbing gasket is mounted on the gasket ring and a lens with a rear edge removeably sealed against the gasket by means of a front trim ring that surrounds an outer portion of the lens and an outer portion of the front portion of the electrical component housing. Optionally, the vandal resistant luminaire has a rear trim ring surrounding a rear portion of the electrical component housing having a shock absorbing configuration and a substantially flat rear mating surface eliminating pry points between the vandal resistant luminaire and a surface too which it is mounted. Additionally, the front trim ring may depend about the lens forming a pattern thereon such as a grid pattern or a graphical display area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Applicant: GENLYTE THOMAS GROUP LLC
    Inventors: Kenneth W. Biello, Dylan A. Akinrele, David S. Monteiro, Thomas Russello
  • Publication number: 20070253200
    Abstract: A gasket for a vandal resistant luminaire, the gasket is constructed to be disposed between an electrical component housing and a lens wherein the lens is held to the electrical component housing with a front trim ring surrounding an outer portion thereof. The gasket is designed to form a seal between the lens and electrical component housing and absorb physical shock placed on the lens and/or the electrical component housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Applicant: GENLYTE THOMAS GROUP LLC
    Inventors: Thomas Russello, Kenneth W. Biello, Dylan A. Akinrele, David S. Monteiro
  • Publication number: 20070253201
    Abstract: A lighting fixture and method such as, for example, an induction lighting fixture and method, is described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2006
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Applicant: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventors: Patrick Blincoe, Clifford Helmer
  • Publication number: 20070253202
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a LED lamp and the heat-dissipating structure thereof. The heat-dissipating structure is used to dissipate the heat generated by the LED and comprises a first heat-dissipating body and a second heat-dissipating body. The first heat-dissipating body has a casing with an opening formed thereon. The second heat-dissipating body is connected on the first heat-dissipating body and comprises at least one heat pipe and a plurality of heat-dissipating fins connected to the heat pipe. With this arrangement, the LED continuously operates under a suitable working temperature and the life of the LED can thus be prolonged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2006
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventors: Chung Wu, Meng-Cheng Huang, Zu-Chao Hsu
  • Publication number: 20070253203
    Abstract: A discharge lamp has a discharge vessel for generating an arc discharge between two electrodes. The discharge vessel contains an inert gas, and metal halides. The lamp further comprises an outer envelope surrounding the discharge vessel. The outer envelope is made of transparent material containing Potassium in a maximum concentration of 10 ppm by relation to the weight. The metal halides are contained in the discharge vessel in an amount of 3-6 ?g/?l of the inner volume of the vessel, preferably 5±0.5 ?g/?l. The lamp exhibits an improved long term lumen maintenance and may have a physical lifetime exceeding 4000 h net burning time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2005
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS, N.V.
    Inventors: Marcus Kubon, Gerald Scholak
  • Publication number: 20070253204
    Abstract: A trim ring for a vandal resistant luminaire, the trim ring is disposed about an electrical component housing and a lens and holds the lens to the electrical component housing. The trim ring is designed to protect the luminaire by absorbing physical shock exerted on the luminaire and provide an aesthetic pleasing design. Twist locks depend from an inner annular surface of the trim ring which cooperate with retaining legs on the electrical component housing providing for access to the internal components of the vandal resistant luminaire.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Applicant: Genlyte Thomas Group LLC
    Inventors: Dylan A. Akinrele, Kenneth W. Biello, David S. Monteiro, Thomas Russello
  • Publication number: 20070253205
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to the field of lighting. More particularly, the present invention relates to decorative, reconfigurable or energy and maintenance efficient fluorescent light fixtures that use energy efficient lamps and ballasts, and to an apparatus for new fluorescent light fixtures and for replacing an existing fluorescent light fixture for energy efficient use. Further, the present invention relates to a system that integrates light fixtures with a suspended grid ceiling or a solid ceiling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventor: Mark Welker
  • Publication number: 20070253206
    Abstract: A lamp device with rotatable legs comprises a lamp body having at least one stand rod; a light emitting unit combined to one end of the stand rod, and a lampshade; a lamp frame connected to one end of the lamp body; the lamp frame having a plurality of leg elements, a rotary unit and one positioning unit; the rotary unit having a plurality of axial rings; the number of the axial rings being identical to that of the legs; each axial ring being combined with a respective leg; the axial rings being connected one by one and then being combined to a lower end of the stand rod; and each of the axial rings having a respective positioning portion so that the axial rings being detachably combined one by one.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2006
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventor: Meiric Chen
  • Publication number: 20070253207
    Abstract: A rail mounting assembly for coupling a flashlight or other instrument to a fixed point on a person's body, clothing, equipment or accessories allows a user to direct or otherwise fix light upon a person or area of interest.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventors: Christopher E. Coombs, Alan T. Howe
  • Publication number: 20070253208
    Abstract: A lighting unit adapted to be mounted to a vertical member, preferably a pole for use at a checkout counter in a retail service location. The lighting unit includes a substantially polygonal housing secured to the pole. The housing typically includes at least three sides, a top, and a base; the top may have slots to promote ventilation. An opening is formed in the first side of the housing and defines a receiving location for the pole, situated between the top and base of the housing. A clamp plate is releasably engageable with the first side of the housing spans the opening adjacent to the pole, and releasably engages the pole to provide for easy vertical adjustment of the housing relative to the pole. Each flange can advantageously include at least one set of teeth for enhancing the gripping strength of the clamp plates and penetrating the vertical member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2006
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventors: Carol Howard, Daniel Marconi
  • Publication number: 20070253209
    Abstract: A submount for a solid state lighting package includes a support member having upper and lower surfaces, a first side surface, and a second side surface opposite the first side surface, a first electrical bondpad on the upper surface of the support member and having a first bonding region proximate the first side surface of the support member and a second bonding region extending toward the second side surface of the support member, and a second electrical bondpad on the upper surface of the support member having a die mounting region proximate the first side surface of the support member and an extension region extending toward the second side surface of the support member. The die mounting region of the second electrical bondpad may be configured to receive an electronic device. The submount further includes a third electrical bondpad on the upper surface of the support member and positioned between the second side surface of the support member and the die mounting region of the second electrical bondpad.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2006
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventors: Ban Loh, Nicholas Medendorp, Bernd Keller
  • Publication number: 20070253210
    Abstract: A vehicle headlamp device that includes a forward vehicle detecting device and a projection state changing device for switching a projection state of the headlamp between a first and second projection state. The device also includes a specific state determining device that determines whether a specific state exists in which switching between the first and second projection states should be prohibited. The projection state changing device maintains the headlamp in a current state of projection when the specific state determining device determines that the specific state exists.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Applicant: DENSO Corporation
    Inventor: Junichi Hasegawa
  • Publication number: 20070253211
    Abstract: A lamp structure comprises a top fixture having a light-emitting device attached thereon; a frame body having a notch formed thereon; and a transparent cover, wherein the top fixture, the frame body, and the transparent cover are assembled together. As a result, a control wire of a video camera can be mounted easily by utilizing a wiring route of the light-emitting device via the notch of the frame body without damaging the original structure of the conventional lamp structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2006
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventor: Cheng-Chung Chang
  • Publication number: 20070253212
    Abstract: A vehicular lamp unit including a flat-surfaced light source module and a projection lens that projects the image of light emitted from the light source module to the front as an inverted image. The light source module is comprised of a substrate and a light-emitting diode element disposed on the substrate and is formed therein with a subwavelength grating that reduces the reflection of light; and the formation density of the subwavelength grating is varied from position to position so as to vary the distribution of light emission intensity in the inverted image projected to the front.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Ishida
  • Publication number: 20070253213
    Abstract: A vehicle headlamp. The headlamp comprises a light source and a reflector to direct light received from the light source out of the headlamp. A movable shade is positionable to control the light received by the reflector. A shade driver is coupled to the movable shade to position the shade. A first shade position configures the headlamp for high beam lighting. A second shade position configures the headlamp for low beam lighting. A third shade position configures the headlamp for daytime running lights.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: STEVEN KOVACH
  • Publication number: 20070253214
    Abstract: This invention relates generally to lighting devices, and more specifically, to systems and methods for providing lighting articles. In one embodiment, the invention includes a lighting device, the lighting device including an article of manufacture; and a light source, the light source being a light emitting diode (LED); wherein the light source is embedded within the article of manufacture and configured to project light through the article of manufacture. In one particular embodiment, the article of manufacture is a flower branch defining a length, the flower branch presenting a plurality of flowers disposed along the length, the plurality of flowers being constructed from any of silk, fabric, and plastic. In yet another particular embodiment, the LED is embedded within at least one of the plurality of flowers. In a further embodiment, the LED is coupled to a wire for carrying current, the wire being embedded within the flower branch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventor: Mary Beth Kaiser
  • Publication number: 20070253215
    Abstract: A light source apparatus for an endoscope system comprises a light source, a light reduction unit, and a light guide. The light reduction unit has a light-passing area that is exposed to light from the light source. The light-passing area has a transmittance that is variable. The light guide illuminates an incident light through the light reduction unit, to a photographing subject. The transmittance is set based on a quantity of light emitted from the light source that varies with respect to a time of use of the light source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Applicant: PENTAX Corporation
    Inventors: Tadashi TAKAHASHI, Nobuhiro TANI
  • Publication number: 20070253216
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to improve the color reproduction capability of a liquid crystal display backlight using white LEDs. A backlight of the present invention includes: a light guide plate 6; a light diffusing optical waveguide 3 disposed adjacent the light guide plate 6; a plurality of white LEDs 1 disposed on the light diffusing optical waveguide 3; and single color LEDs (red LEDs) 2 disposed on respective opposite sides of the light diffusing optical waveguide 3; wherein light from the white LEDs 1 passes through the light diffusing optical waveguide 3 and enters the light guide plate 6 through a side thereof, whereas light from the single color LEDs 2 is diffused by the light diffusing optical waveguide 3 before entering the light guide plate 6 through the same side thereof. Thus, the light diffusing optical waveguide 3 mixes light from the white LEDs 1 and single color LEDs 2, resulting in improved color reproduction capability of the backlight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventor: Saburo Watanabe
  • Publication number: 20070253217
    Abstract: A backlight module and a light diffusing module disposed therein are provided. The light diffusing module includes a diffuser plate and an optical structure layer. The diffuser plate has a light entrance surface and a light output surface. The light entrance surface is corresponding to a light emitting surface of a light source. The light output surface of the diffuser plate includes a prickleless surface. The diffuser plate has a transmittance between 50% and 65%. The optical structure layer is disposed on the diffuser plate and includes an upper surface and a lower surface. The upper surface includes a plurality of optical structures. The lower surface of the optical structure layer directly contacts the light output surface of the diffuser plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Applicant: AU OPTRONICS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Chih-Chieh Su, Chih-Kang Wu, Chung-Chuan Chen
  • Publication number: 20070253218
    Abstract: A backlight apparatus of a sidelight type includes a light guide plate having an incident face on a lateral face and a light source unit having a plurality of substrates. The plurality of the substrates are respectively disposed on the incident face side of the light guide plate such that each of substrate faces of the substrates is parallel with a light exit face of the light guide plate, and the substrates are adjacent to one another in a thickness direction of the light guide plate. A plurality of light emitting devices that emit light along the substrate faces are mounted in columns on each of the substrate faces of the plurality of the substrates such that emitting directions of the light emitting devices are directed to the incident face.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2005
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Applicant: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Takayoshi Tanabe
  • Publication number: 20070253219
    Abstract: A backlight assembly and a liquid crystal display device having the same backlight assembly are provided. The backlight assembly includes a bottom case, a plurality of printed circuit boards (PCBs) disposed on the bottom case, wherein substantially all of the PCBs have predetermined inclinations with respect to a front surface of the bottom case, and a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) mounted on the PCBs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2006
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventors: Hyung Dong Kim, Wook Jeon
  • Publication number: 20070253220
    Abstract: A light source device includes a discharge tube, a reflector for reflecting a light radiated from the discharge tube, and support members for supporting the discharge tube to the reflector. The support member or the discharge tube is formed of a heat insulating structure so as to prevent a temperature drop of a portion of the discharge tube near electrodes thereof. By this arrangement, it is possible to prolong the operational life of the discharge tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Applicant: FUJITSU LIMITED
    Inventors: Akio Sotokawa, Seiji Hachisuka
  • Publication number: 20070253221
    Abstract: An exemplary backlight module (20) includes an optical film assembly (22) having at least two optical films, each optical film having at least one ear (221) attached together; a frame (24) having at least one concave groove (243) receiving the at least one ear.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventors: Cheng-Feng Tsai, Cheng-Hsien Yu
  • Publication number: 20070253222
    Abstract: A nightlight according to the invention may comprise a base; a lighting device on the base; and a power source in the base for the lighting device; an outer housing mounted on the base and surrounding the lighting device, having a window through which light can project from the lighting device; an image support within the outer housing for holding at least one image between the lighting device and the window, whereby the image is illuminated by the lighting device and visible through the window. The image support may be rotatably mounted within the outer housing, and capable of supporting a plurality of images and of being selectively rotated into a position for displaying a selected one of the images through the window. The image support may be a cylindrical drum. The image support may be rotatable by a ring which is accessible by a user for manually rotating the drum. The image may be a pictorial image or may be formed by perforations formed in the image support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2006
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventors: John Driska, Gary Schwartz, Thomas Choi
  • Publication number: 20070253223
    Abstract: A system and method for power conversion synchronizes multiple phases at a desired phase angle difference. The power conversion involves variable frequency switching, fixed on-time and provides power factor correction. A relative measure of a phase angle difference between two phases permits each phase to be controlled to obtain the desired phase angle difference. The power conversion involves transition mode switching to help reduce switching losses. A phase angle difference detector may be provided for each phase. The various phases may have different inherent frequencies that vary with switching frequency, and are synchronized to an average frequency. Current measures can be taken with a single component, such as a resistor. A maximum frequency control limits period width to avoid high frequency switching. An added switch on time improves input voltage crossover distortion. One or more phases can be deactivated in light load conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventors: Robert Alan Neidorff, Isaac Cohen, Richard L. Valley
  • Publication number: 20070253224
    Abstract: A system and method for power conversion synchronizes multiple phases at a desired phase angle difference. The power conversion involves variable frequency switching, fixed on-time and provides power factor correction. A relative measure of a phase angle difference between two phases permits each phase to be controlled to obtain the desired phase angle difference. The power conversion involves transition mode switching to help reduce switching losses. A phase angle difference detector may be provided for each phase. The various phases may have different inherent frequencies that vary with switching frequency, and are synchronized to an average frequency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventors: Isaac Cohen, Robert A. Neidorff, Richard L. Valley
  • Publication number: 20070253225
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed to provide transformerless safety isolation in a power supply. One example regulated power converter includes input terminals included in a primary circuit of the power converter. Output terminals are included in a secondary circuit of the power converter. A plurality of safety capacitors including first and second safety capacitors are also included. Each of the plurality of safety capacitors includes a respective first terminal coupled to the primary circuit and a respective second terminal coupled to the secondary circuit. The plurality of safety capacitors galvanically isolates the primary circuit from the secondary circuit. A power switch is included in the primary circuit. The power switch is coupled such that switching of the power switch causes energy to transfer between the primary and secondary circuits through the plurality of safety capacitors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2006
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventors: Stefan Baurle, David Matthews, Roland Saint-Pierre
  • Publication number: 20070253226
    Abstract: Primary and secondary regions are electrically insulated from each other. The first and second pulse transformers are provided to the respective transistors in the switching circuit. Secondary windings of the first and second pulse transformers are connected to control terminals of the transistors. The control circuit supplies switching voltages to primary windings of the pulse transformers based on a feedback signal fed back through a feedback line. A primary winding of a transformer, the switching circuit, and the secondary windings are disposed on the primary region. A secondary winding of the transformer, the primary windings, the feedback line, and the control circuit are disposed on the secondary region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2007
    Publication date: November 1, 2007
    Inventor: Kenichi Fukumoto