Pavement Patents (Class 362/153.1)
  • Patent number: 8186857
    Abstract: The current inventive technology relates to methods and apparatus for a providing an energy efficient and durable landscape lamp. The lamp can retract when not in use to prevent damage. The high efficiency retractable landscape lamp of this invention may be powered by conventional distributed low voltage or by a solar photovoltaic (PV) source. In some embodiments the lamp may be powered by low voltage, it may be individually interchangeable with a conventional low voltage landscape lamp or may be installed in a low voltage lighting complete system. This lamp may house the electrical components and gearmotor in an upper dry compartment making it reliable in outdoor installations, even in wet environments. This invention can also relate to operation without the need for unreliable limit switches for the raising and lowering of the lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Inventor: Robert M. Porter
  • Patent number: 8177386
    Abstract: A lighting apparatus having a base member and a directional member are shown and described. The base member includes a first surface having a plurality of reflective elements extending therefrom. The base member also including a plurality of openings arranged in a pattern. Each openings is configured to receive a respective light source. The directional member has a portion of a reflective surface positioned relative to at least one opening to reflect light radiating from a lighting source disposed within the opening towards a portion of at least one of the reflective elements extending from the base member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: LSI Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: John D. Boyer, James G. Vanden Eynden
  • Publication number: 20120106194
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a lighted tile system, comprises a first tile. The first tile comprises a tray that comprises a floor, one or more walls coupled to a perimeter of the floor, and a cavity defined at least in part by the floor and the one or more walls. The first tile also comprises a ceiling coupled to the tray and located substantially opposite the floor of the tray, and a substrate located between the floor of the tray and the ceiling. One or more light sources are coupled to the substrate to shine a light from the one or more light sources in a substantially uniform pattern towards the ceiling. The ceiling is at least partially translucent to permit at least part of the light from the one or more light sources to shine through the ceiling. Other embodiments and related methods are also disclosed herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2012
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Inventors: Richard d. Ashoff, James R. Zarian
  • Patent number: 8167459
    Abstract: An LED lighting fixture compatible with existing incandescent lamp lighting fixtures. The heat produced by the LED light source is dissipated through a heat pipe into a ground hole to maintain an optimum operation temperature of the LED light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignee: BWT Property, Inc.
    Inventor: Sean Xiaolu Wang
  • Patent number: 8152325
    Abstract: A reflective surface electric road flare designed to be positioned on a roadway and to emit light to alert oncoming drivers to a hazard on the roadway. The flare comprises a housing supporting a circuit. The circuit comprises an led light source, a power controller and a power supply. The power controller energizes the led light source with the power supply such that the led light source emits light according to its design specification. The emitted light is concentrated about the horizontal by a lens into a horizontal light beam visible throughout the azimuth. Concentrating the emitted light into a horizontal light beam increases its intensity as perceived by oncoming drivers located within the projected horizontal light beam. A portion of the horizontal light beam intersects a top surface of the road flare where it is reflected towards oncoming vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Inventor: Kevin F McDermott
  • Patent number: 8136969
    Abstract: A variable lighting system (“VLS”) for optimizing object visibility at night by setting a base level of lighting, adding a variable light to that base level of lighting, and a synchronizing the timing and sequence of the base level of lighting and the variable lighting. The VLS varies the illumination by intensity, color, direction, or a combination thereof and optionally includes a detector for detecting motion, noise, and other occurrences. The VLS can be implemented as a fixed lighting source, a movable lighting source, or a vehicle mounted lighting source. The VLS improves visibility at night for viewers or motorists thereby reducing accidents and damage costs, saves energy, and improves the environment and enhances quality of life by reducing light pollution and light trespass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Inventor: Karl A. Burkett
  • Patent number: 8128254
    Abstract: The invention relates to a flush-mounted flashing light for approach guidance of aircraft, having a housing which has a housing pot (10) which can be inserted below ground level (F) and a housing cover (12) which covers this approximately at ground level (F) and having an optical system, which is arranged in the housing for controlled production and directed emission of light flashes, which comprises a light source (20) for production of light flashes and a prism (40) for varying the direction of the beam direction of the light flashes, with at least one light outlet opening (13) being provided in the housing cover (12) for light flashes to emerge from in a predetermined emission direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: ADB BVBA
    Inventors: Guy Laenen, Michel Vanderen, Jean-Claude Vandevoorde, Louis Willems
  • Patent number: 8128270
    Abstract: There is provided an illuminated surface mounted on a base surface. The illuminated surface includes a plurality of transmissive tiles configured to allow light to pass therethrough. Each of the transmissive tiles includes an exterior surface, an attaching surface and a plurality of lateral sides disposed between the exterior and attaching surfaces. The attaching surface is affixable to the base surface. The transmissive tiles are arranged in spaced relation to each other to define a cable channel. The cable channel is defined by opposing lateral sides of adjacent transmissive tiles. A fiber optic cable is in optical communication a light source and receives light therefrom. The fiber optic cable includes a longitudinal axis and a first segment disposed within the cable channel. The first segment is configured to radially radiate light along the longitudinal axis into the lateral sides of the adjacent transmissive tiles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Inventor: Michael Trujillo
  • Patent number: 8025419
    Abstract: A weather resistant road light comprises a top cover and a ballast mounting surface disposed on a top surface of the top cover. The ballast mounting surface defines a ballast compartment lower surface. At least one wire aperture seat is disposed on the ballast mounting surface. A ballast is mounted to the at least one wire aperture seat. Wires from the ballast pass through the wire aperture seat. A ballast compartment cover covers the ballast compartment. The ballast compartment cover fits over the top of the ballast mounting surface disposed on the top cover. At least one securing member secures the ballast to the ballast mounting surface. A bottom tray mates with the top cover, and the bottom tray has a lens opening. A reflector assembly has a socket for receiving a bulb. The reflector assembly is mounted on the bottom tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Inventor: Kevin Yang
  • Patent number: 8002431
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for reducing lumen depreciation caused by other than lamp lumen depreciation. In one aspect, manufacturing and assembly of the fixture uses clean-room light techniques. In another aspect of the invention, materials that have a propensity to outgas are shielded from direct exposure to light energy. Other aspects of the invention include other methodologies to eliminate causes for lumen depreciation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Musco Corporation
    Inventors: Myron Gordin, Timothy J. Boyle
  • Patent number: 8002427
    Abstract: A Christmas/Decorative light without wires. This is a solar rechargeable indoor/outdoor Christmas/Decorative light that is characterized by a bright long lasting LED and long lasting energy source. The rechargeable energy storage device is electrically coupled to a flexible solar array that powers the light. The light assembly is constructed with a small, flexible solar array that allows it to be used on a variety of light sizes including mini-light, C6, C7, and C9 bulb. The LED holder has a nearly unbreakable lens for illumination and allows for varying colors. The solar array is mounted on the casing and is maximized to collect the ambient/solar energy during the daylight hours. The light assembly is designed with a clip that allows it to be attached/mounted to a variety of indoor and outdoor structures including Christmas Trees and houses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Candew Scientific, LLC
    Inventor: Dawn Emily Marilyn Lavigne
  • Patent number: 8002428
    Abstract: A lighting apparatus having a base member and a directional member are shown and described. The base member includes a first surface having a plurality of reflective elements extending therefrom. The base member also including a plurality of openings arranged in a pattern. Each openings is configured to receive a respective light source. The directional member has a portion of a reflective surface positioned relative to at least one opening to reflect light radiating from a lighting source disposed within the opening towards a portion of at least one of the reflective elements extending from the base member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: LSI Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: John D. Boyer, James G. Vanden Eynden
  • Patent number: 7993040
    Abstract: A spike for outdoor lighting fixture includes a receptacle portion integrated into the body of the spike with an open section and a removable transparent window that is configured to enclose the receptacle portion. The transparent window is attached to the receptacle portion using one or more screws or other fasteners. The spike can include an internally threaded upper portion for receiving a post upon which a lighting fixture is mounted and/or a lamp socket can be attached to the top of the spike and a protective housing fitted around the outer edges of the top of the spike. In a preferred embodiment, the receptacle portion is divided into multiple compartments, e.g., for storing excess cable or spare parts, or for securing connection points of a wiring installation. The transparent window permits visual examination of the connection within the receptacle without removing the transparent window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: Hunter Industries Incorporated
    Inventor: Joshua Z. Beadle
  • Patent number: 7988316
    Abstract: An airport inset light adjustable alignment container set provides a light fixture and stainless steel support for airport runway, taxiway, or other aircraft ground traffic areas. A variable length extension means rotatably adjusts height and azimuth by a rotatable vertical displacement. In one aspect, a previously installed, airport inset light and stainless steel base of the present invention receives a variable length extension assembly for rotatably adjusting the height and azimuth alignment of an airport inset light. Rotation locking means are provided for securing the rotatable adjustment apparatus from further rotation. A novel stainless steel base is adapted to receive various different designs of inset lights and, in one aspect, to provide a stainless steel protection ring “mud dam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: MFPF, Inc.
    Inventor: Gary L. Reinert, Sr.
  • Patent number: 7976180
    Abstract: A solar powered rechargeable street light, which can be networked to a system. The modular and tamper resistant street light and system can be used with individual street lights or a network of street lights. The system can be powered from a central controller, which can detect tampering by individuals or harsh weather conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: Solarcraft, Inc.
    Inventors: Darrell N. Haun, Donald N. Haun
  • Patent number: 7967473
    Abstract: An LED lamp (100) includes a plurality of LED modules (20) and a thermal module (30). Each of the LED modules has a plurality of LEDs (220). The thermal module is secured to a side of the LED modules. The thermal module includes a plurality of fins (320). The fins are stacked with one above another with a gap defined between two adjacent fins. Each of the fins defines two opening (325). The openings of the fins coincide with each other from top to bottom so as to form two channels (328). The channels are used for air to flow therein to exchange heat with the fins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignees: Fu Zhun Precision Industry (Shen Zhen) Co., Ltd., Foxconn Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chung-Yuan Huang, Jer-Haur Kuo, Xin-Xiang Zha, Ye-Fei Yu, Lin Yang
  • Patent number: 7942564
    Abstract: An overspeed prevention structure is disclosed herein. The overspeed prevention structure according to the present invention comprises a structural body having a curved convex upper surface; an external light source; and a plastic optical fiber embedded in the structural body and connected electrically to the external light source so as to emit the light outside the structural body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Kumho Electric, Inc.
    Inventors: Jong-Chan Lee, Gi-Seung Choi, In-Sung Her
  • Patent number: 7938565
    Abstract: A lighting assembly and apparatus having a light fixture mounted using a tube and stake assembly; the tube is configured with a male receptacle formed of a pronged plug positioned vertically with the upper end flush with the earth; and the stake for insertion into the earth, the stake is configured with a female receptacle containing electrical contacts adapted to receive the pronged plug of the male receptacle. The female receptacle is adapted to have an open end so as to clear debris to the bottom of said stake. The light assembly and apparatus can be constructed from low cost, low voltage outdoor lights so as to provide ground level illumination of pathways, steps, and landscaping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Inventor: James G. Richard
  • Patent number: 7926970
    Abstract: An in-grade light fixture has a lamp compartment having an open upper end with a lens cover covering the open upper end. The lens cover may have a joint connection to permit travel from an open configuration to a closed configuration. A junction box is adjacent to the lens cover along an upper portion of the compartment. If a ballast is utilized for proper supply of power to the lamp, a ballast compartment is adjacent an open lower end of the lamp compartment. A hydraulic isolation chamber extends vertically downward from the junction box to the sealed ballast compartment. The hydraulic isolation chamber is filled with a potting material and prevents wicking of moisture into the ballast compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: Genlyte Thomas Group LLC
    Inventors: Matthew Pressel, Lew Waltz
  • Patent number: 7918579
    Abstract: A floor assembly including a top having at least one transparent or translucent light emitting portion for emitting light is provided. At least one light source is provided for supplying light. The light source is optically connected to the light emitting portion. The assembly may include a light guide for guiding light therethrough. Also, a light refracting portion may be included for directing light emanating from the light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Inventors: Douglas J. Hamar, Jerry Milatz
  • Patent number: 7905327
    Abstract: Cart securing structures are provided for securing shopping carts. In one embodiment, the structures include a body having a pair of spaced stops with an intermediate trough. In use, the wheels of the cart are rolled along an upwardly extending face of one of the stops, over the stop and into the trough between the stops. In one embodiment, advertising is located on the surfaces of one or more of the stops. In one embodiment, an electronic display is located on one of the faces of the structure and a control system is provided for presenting advertising and other information using the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Inventor: Ronald Scheffer
  • Patent number: 7905621
    Abstract: An in-grade light fixture has a lamp compartment having an open upper end with a lens cover covering the open upper end. The lens cover may have a joint connection to permit travel from an open configuration to a closed configuration. A junction box is adjacent to the lens cover along an upper portion of the compartment. If a ballast is utilized for proper supply of power to the lamp, a ballast compartment is adjacent an open lower end of the lamp compartment. A hydraulic isolation chamber extends vertically downward from the junction box to the sealed ballast compartment. The hydraulic isolation chamber is filled with a potting material and prevents wicking of moisture into the ballast compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: Genlyte Thomas Group, LLC
    Inventors: James Hickman, Matthew Pressel, Michael Riebling, David Smith, Lew Waltz
  • Patent number: 7891832
    Abstract: A solar powered lighting system provides a lighting element assembly having a lighting element and a diffuser that secures near the upper end of a support. A collector unit contains a solar cell and a coupler such as a clip-on clamp which allows the collector unit to be selectively attached to a desired support. The lighting system includes a battery electrically coupled to the solar cell of the collector unit and to the lighting element assembly using a wire such that the portion of the wire that extends from the collector unit to the lighting element assembly is of sufficient length to allow the collector unit to be selectively positioned on or remotely from the support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Allsop, Inc.
    Inventors: James D. Allsop, Eivind Clausen, Jamey J. Allsop
  • Patent number: 7883234
    Abstract: A modular in-road lighting system is easily installed in the road and is convenient for repair, replacement and maintenance. The lighting system includes at least one modular light, at least one modular cable and a control unit. The top surface of the modular light is flush with a road surface so as to avoid abrasion by passing items. The modular light includes an illumination source and a control circuitry. The illumination source and the control circuitry are configured to emit light in selected direction(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: Spot Devices, Inc
    Inventors: Chester Allen Burns, Denver Patrick Hinds, Jonathon George Folsom, Ryan Christopher Oddo
  • Patent number: 7878691
    Abstract: An LED road lamp includes a heat dissipater module containing circuit boards, LED chips, and a cooling fin seat; and a completely sealed power supply. By directly using the cooling fin seat as an outer cover of a road lamp to contact with atmosphere for cooling, and directly transmitting heat from the LED chips and the circuit boards to a stand pipe, a dual cooling effect is achieved. Heat of the power supply is dissipated from the stand pipe through its sealed outer casing, to largely increase cooling area, lower temperature, and increase a cooling efficiency, preventing the power supply from being affected by ambient weather. Therefore, lifetimes of usage of the LED circuit boards, the LED chips, and the power supply are prolonged, the circuit boards are quickly assembled on and disassembled from a cooling base, and convenience in assembling and disassembling the circuit boards is improved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Aeon Lighting Technology Inc.
    Inventor: Chien-Kuo Liang
  • Patent number: 7841734
    Abstract: An LED lighting fixture includes a support structure having a horizontal cross-dimension and a top structure attached to the support structure and extending outwardly beyond the support structure. The top structure has a bottom surface with peripheral portion surrounding a non-peripheral portion. A plurality of LED emitters are positioned on the peripheral portion for emitting light in downward direction substantially outside of the horizontal cross-dimension of the support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: Ruud Lighting, Inc.
    Inventor: Kurt S. Wilcox
  • Patent number: 7828463
    Abstract: A method and apparatus to control a lighting source such as a streetlight and modulate the output of the lighting source so that artificial illumination is reduced when moonlight is available to illuminate the area. The apparatus includes a sensor assembly for detecting moonlight in the night sky, an electronic circuit for processing the sensor signals in combination with moonrise and moonset data, and modulating the power applied to the lighting source in response to the intensity of the incident moonlight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Inventor: Anton Michael Willis
  • Patent number: 7828456
    Abstract: A lighting apparatus having a base member and a directional member are shown and described. The base member includes a first surface having a plurality of reflective elements extending therefrom. The base member also including a plurality of openings arranged in a pattern. Each openings is configured to receive a respective light source. The directional member has a portion of a reflective surface positioned relative to at least one opening to reflect light radiating from a lighting source disposed within the opening towards a portion of at least one of the reflective elements extending from the base member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: LSI Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: John D. Boyer, James G. Vanden Eynden
  • Patent number: 7810277
    Abstract: A lawn edging strip includes imbedded conductors which can be used to conduct low voltage electricity to allow the lawn edging to double as a lighting strip. The lawn edging product enables solderless connection of one or more low voltage lights at points along the length of the edging using a light socket body with a plug adapted for insertion into holes formed in the strip to expose embedded conductors. Adjacent sections of lawn edging may be connected together physically and electrically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Alf Operating Partners, Ltd.
    Inventor: John Fakhari
  • Patent number: 7806550
    Abstract: A lighting system has a sealable housing with a lamp cavity, a junction box and a partition wall there between with the junction box being laterally from beneath a lens opening. The system further includes a closure to close an access port in the partition wall which includes a conical wall with a circular plate truncating the wall. The plate extends across the bottom of the housing and a vertically extending sealing flange receives the closure. A ballast assembly is also located from beneath the lens opening. A formed seal is positioned about a lens which extends inwardly to capture optic components beneath the lens. A locking ring is restrained from compressing against the mounting flange of the lens. A lighting system employing an LED board array and LED power control includes a heat sink beneath the board array extending downwardly to a radiator for transfer of heat from the array downwardly to the lamp cavity for dissipation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: ABL IP Holding LLC
    Inventors: Glenn M. Tyson, Richard M. Schuler, Michael P. Leonhardt
  • Patent number: 7794103
    Abstract: A solar-powered parking space barrier block is configured as a one-piece molded housing of a high strength, transparent plastic material in which a photovoltaic solar panel and a DC energy storage module are inclosed. A pair of white light LED lamps provide end panel marker illumination, two yellow light LED lamps provide hazard warning illumination and a rechargeable supercapacitor storage module provides operating power. A power control circuit enables use of the solar panel as a photosensor to automatically energize the LED lamps when ambient skylight falls below a predetermined safe visibility level, and removes operating power from the LED lamps when ambient skylight rises above a predetermined safe visibility level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Inventor: Scott C. Hoover
  • Patent number: 7775691
    Abstract: A retractable light is provided with a light to extend and retract in a housing. A motor for driving a sprocket is mounted in the housing or light assembly and a gear rack is mounted in the other. The gear rack has a series of apertures so that debris is conveyed into the apertures. Another embodiment provides a housing with a first guide member, connected to a light assembly by a second guide member. A motor and a gear are mounted in one of the housing and light assembly. A gear rack is mounted in the other of the housing and the light assembly. In another embodiment, a rechargeable battery is powered by a solar cell with a first circuit for powering the motor with a first voltage and a second circuit for powering the light source with a second voltage that is less than the first voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Innovative Solar Lighting LLC
    Inventors: James William Burgei, Jr., Martin Barnaby, Asaf Itzhak Salama
  • Patent number: 7775674
    Abstract: A light emitting system to illuminate ice and a method for illuminating ice are disclosed herein. The system includes multiple light emitting modules that each includes a light source having at least one light emitting element and a cover having a base. The base substantially surrounds the light source. The light emitting modules may then be electrically connected to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Barco, Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew E. Ward
  • Publication number: 20100188842
    Abstract: An illumination device for illuminating a paved floor comprising a container, which comprises a box creating a cavity therein and a first frame, integrally connected to the upper rim of the box; an illumination set comprising at least one light source (e.g. LED), where the illumination set is installed inside the container, where at least one light source enables illumination of the illumination device; a cover, which is adapted to be seated within the first frame, where the cover enables light from the illumination set to be transferred therethrough; a second frame, enabling to hold the cover between the first and the second frame; and at least two fastening means enabling to fasten the second frame to the first frame to hold the cover therebetween. The illumination device may be configured to be installed in the paved floor as one of the floor's tiles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2009
    Publication date: July 29, 2010
    Applicant: UBOX LTD
    Inventor: Binyamin YOHANANOFF
  • Patent number: 7703939
    Abstract: In an embodiment of a light fixture support assembly for securing a light fixture to a fixed surface, the assembly includes a fixture-support member and a surface-attachment member. The fixture-support member has proximal and distal ends and also includes walls defining a compartment and further defining a first opening at the proximal end of the fixture-support member for communication with the surface-attachment member. The walls further define a second opening for communication with the light fixture. The fixture-support assembly also has a neck portion extending from the proximal end and the neck portion has a flange portion extending from it. The surface-attachment member includes a proximal end attached to the fixed surface and a distal end configured to engage the neck portion, whereby the fixture-support member is supported by the surface-attachment member when the neck portion is inserted into the fixture-support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Ruud Lighting, Inc.
    Inventors: Kurt S. Wilcox, Brian L. Kinnune, Russell S. Schultz, Steven R. Walczak
  • Patent number: 7699507
    Abstract: An optical signaling apparatus for use in highways or roadways (2), particularly in low visibility conditions, wherein a roadway (2) comprises at least one traffic bearing surface (S) with at least one edgeline (3). The apparatus comprises light-emitting means (4) for emitting at least one laser beam (5) and support means (6) designed to be arranged along the roadway (2) for supporting the light-emitting means (4). The apparatus also includes optical means (7) arranged along the roadway (2) for interacting with the beam (5) in such a manner as to selectively conform and project it either in a first direction (D1) which is incident on at least one edgeline (3) to interact therewith, or in a second direction (D2) substantially parallel to the traffic bearing surface (S) to define a substantially continuous optical path that can be viewed by the users, or even in both such directions (D1, D2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: Astron Fiamm Safety S.p.A.
    Inventors: Thomas Bleiner, Bruno Dussert-Vidalet
  • Patent number: 7699489
    Abstract: An in-grade light fixture comprises a light fixture housing arranged to be buried substantially below grade level. The light fixture housing has a light opening substantially at grade level and an optical chamber having a light source arranged within the optical chamber and the optical chamber arranged within the housing with light from the light source passing through the light opening. The fixture further comprises a plurality of housing openings and one or more enclosures, each of which is removably mounted to a respective one of the housing openings. The enclosures accept external power and generate power to energize the light source causing it to emit light. The optical chamber can also comprise an anti-condensation valve and an air passageway between the optical chamber and one of the enclosures form a vacuum in the optical chamber and vacuum during operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Inventor: Douglas W. Hagen
  • Patent number: 7686485
    Abstract: A lighting assembly designed to fit within a rail post. The lamp post assembly focuses light toward the ground to prevent sending light into the night sky or into the eyes of users. The lamp assembly fits within a post to provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance. The lamp assembly can be installed in existing post configurations or installed with a new post. The lamp assembly also hides the wiring necessary for the lamp from view, thus providing a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: The Crane Group Companies Limited
    Inventors: Steve E. Pever, Timothy C. Rothwell
  • Publication number: 20100008073
    Abstract: An airport inset light for an airport runway light system comprises a light fixture incorporating a light source that is covered with a lens. A flow path can be provided in the light fixture such that air can pass unrestrictedly between an exterior environment and an interior space of the light fixture. The flow path can be covered or filled with a hydrophobic filter material, which allows for the light fixture interior to exchange air with its exterior environment. Such a flow path can create pressure equalization between the exterior environment and the light fixture interior to prevent the formation of a vacuum in the light fixture interior. Hence, it can eliminate the possibility of water entering the interior of the light source due to pressure differential between the environment and the light source interior.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2008
    Publication date: January 14, 2010
    Inventors: Russell Lewis Tartock, Anthony W. Wilson, Richard Mula, Albert Boyd Cable, Todd Hanson, Aziz Rahman
  • Publication number: 20090323320
    Abstract: In a method of dynamically guiding an aircraft the intended path of the aircraft may be broadcast along at least one of a runway and a taxiway. The broadcasted intended path of the aircraft along the at least one runway and taxiway may be received. The lighting characteristics of an airport lighting device along the at least one runway and taxiway may be dynamically changed to dynamically guide the aircraft along the broadcasted and received intended path of the at least one runway and taxiway.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2008
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Applicant: THE BOEING COMPANY
    Inventors: WILLIAM L. GOODMAN, SYED TAJI SHAFAAT
  • Publication number: 20090279287
    Abstract: An elevated light apparatus for an airport runway light system comprises a mast mounted to a base plate, which is attached to a base-cup. The mast can be designed with a hollow configuration to allow internal electrical connection between a light source in a light assembly and an isolation transformer in the base-cup. The mast can include a frangible break joint that cleanly separates the mast from the base plate. A safety power cut-off switch can be fixed into the base plate on the base-cup. The power cut-off switch can be positioned in the frangible break joint so that a switch button can be held closed by a breakaway portion of the frangible break joint. In the event of mast breakage, the switch button can be released to open electrical circuits for quick disconnection of the electrical connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2008
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Inventor: Russell Lewis Tartock
  • Patent number: 7614143
    Abstract: The present invention provides methods of manufacturing a bollard light assembly that provides a choice of light output by being size-adaptable depending on the choice of light output. The methods comprise, in pertinent part, selecting an elongated light and interposing a number of lens rings and light deflectors which correspond to the length of the selected elongated light. Also provided is a lighting bollard assembly manufactured according to the methods of the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Paul D. Seff, Alston G. Brooks, Gregory S. Nailler
  • Patent number: 7607793
    Abstract: A decorative light tile includes a base, a light source adjacent to the perimeter of the base positioned to illuminate at least a slanted light reflecting area of the base, and a cover mounted on the base adapted to be illuminated by light from the light source reflected off the slanted light reflecting area. Additionally, the light tile includes a bus bar system. The bus bar system includes positioned along a perimeter of the light tile. The bus bar system is electrically connected to the light source and provides a circuit for supplying power to the light source. A light tile system includes a plurality of light tiles, a decorative sheet positioned adjacent to each light tile and illuminated by the light source within the light tile, and a power supply. Each light tile includes a bus bar system connected to a light source within the light tile and the light tiles may be positioned contiguous to each other so that the bus bar systems are in electrical contact with each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Assignee: OSRAM SYLVANIA Inc.
    Inventors: Charles Coushaine, Frank St. Onge, Thomas Tessnow
  • Publication number: 20090262522
    Abstract: A modular in-road lighting system is easily installed in the road and is convenient for repair, replacement and maintenance. The lighting system includes at least one modular light, at least one modular cable and a control unit. The top surface of the modular light is flush with a road surface so as to avoid abrasion by passing items. The modular light includes an illumination source and a control circuitry. The illumination source and the control circuitry are configured to emit light in selected direction(s).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2008
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Applicant: SPOT DEVICES, INC.
    Inventors: Chester Allen Burns, Denver Patrick Hinds, Jonathon George Folsom, Ryan Christopher Oddo
  • Patent number: 7578597
    Abstract: An outdoor lighting fixture that is capable of being mounted flush with a mounting surface is provided. In one embodiment, the outdoor lighting fixture contains a housing having an upper and lower portion. A light source is in operable communication with the housing and can provide light in a direction that is substantially parallel to the mounting surface. It has been discovered that the outdoor lighting fixture of the present invention can be mounted substantially flush with a mounting surface so that it remains relatively hidden from view during use. Furthermore, the outdoor lighting fixture can also provide light in a linear direction, thereby enabling it to illuminate paths, sidewalks, driveways and the like, without having to provide light in all directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Brandon C. Hoover, James E. Decker
  • Publication number: 20090210082
    Abstract: A method and apparatus thereof for providing a material for use in forming a product fixture assembly. One or more flaws of a currently utilized material can be analyzed for use in meeting a particular requirement of a product fixture assembly in order to identify one or more alternate materials for use in meeting the particular requirement of the product fixture assembly. The alternate material(s) are then analyzed with regard to all requirements of the product fixture assembly, in response to identifying the alternate material(s). An offering of the alternate material(s) can be developed that meets the particular requirement of the product fixture assembly and overcomes the flaws(s) associated with the currently utilized material. The alternate material(s) can be then selected in order to develop the product fixture assembly. A new material may also be developed, which meets the particular requirement of the product fixture assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2008
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Inventors: Russell Lewis Tartock, Tony Wilson
  • Patent number: 7556394
    Abstract: A paver light having a masonry structure with an aperture and a lighting fixture positioned within the aperture of the masonry structure. The lighting fixture includes a support member with an internal cavity and a first locking member, an electrical socket removably received within the cavity of the support member, and a modular light assembly having a light source and a second locking member that is releasably enagable with the first locking member in response to the relative rotation of the first and second locking members. The modular light assembly is removably mounted to the support member by the first and second locking members, and is releasably connected to the socket such that the socket is removed from the cavity of the support member as the modular light assembly is removed from the support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Inventor: Anthony Patti
  • Patent number: 7553042
    Abstract: An in-grade light fixture comprises a light fixture housing arranged to be buried substantially below grade level. The light fixture housing has a light opening substantially at grade level and an optical chamber having a light source arranged within the optical chamber and the optical chamber arranged within the housing with light from the light source passing through the light opening. The fixture further comprises a plurality of housing openings and one or more enclosures, each of which is removably mounted to a respective one of the housing openings. The enclosures accept external power and generate power to energize the light source causing it to emit light. The optical chamber can also comprise an anti-condensation valve and an air passageway between the optical chamber and one of the enclosures form a vacuum in the optical chamber and vacuum during operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Inventor: Douglas W. Hagen
  • Publication number: 20090154146
    Abstract: An exemplary streetlight system for illuminating a road surface comprises an illuminating device, an infrared detection device and a controlling device. The illuminating device includes a light source. The infrared detection device is configured for detecting whether there are vehicles or passersby on the road surface and generating a detection signal. The controlling device is configured for receiving the detection signal, generating a controlling signal according to the detection signal and sending the controlling signal to the light source, thereby modulating the brightness of the light source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2008
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Applicant: FOXSEMICON INTEGRATED TECHNOLOGY, INC.
    Inventors: CHUN-WEI WANG, WEN-JANG JIANG
  • Patent number: RE40934
    Abstract: The improved bollard luminaire has an upwardly directed, elliptical main reflector and a lamp “nested” within such reflector and positioned at or near its lower focal point. An upper cone-shaped reflector receives light from the main reflector and directs it laterally through a transparent lens element. Such element provides a 360° lateral light opening unobstructed by wiring, support posts or the like. Light reflected through such opening is relatively sharply focused along an axis about 70° from vertical. Unreflected light from the lamp which “misses” both reflectors also provides a degree of “uplighting,” often found useful for aesthetic purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Assignee: Ruud Lighting, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan J. Ruud, Eric J. Haugaard