With Hermetic Seal Patents (Class 362/158)
  • Patent number: 5203624
    Abstract: A portable electric warning light comprises an elongated electrically conducting housing to which an end cap is connected at one end to provide an on/off switch function and to which a gas discharge flash tube is connected at the other end for emitting, through both end and side walls of a cover connected to the housing, bright flashes of light in response to the operation of batteries and an electronic circuit contained within the housing. The batteries are rechargeable, which can be accomplished in a particular implementation wherein external terminals provide access to the batteries without disassembling the light. The connection of one end of the batteries to the electronic circuit is made through the end cap assembly and the housing, and in one embodiment the connection of the other end of the batteries to the electronic circuit is made through the metallic housing of a flash capacitor forming part of the circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1993
    Assignee: G.A. Thompson Company, Inc.
    Inventors: J. Alan Schier, Karl G. Thompson, Gregg F. Thompson
  • Patent number: 5172031
    Abstract: A hermetically sealed type electronic flash device comprises an electric circuit device comprising a main capacitor storing light emitting energy therein prior to light emission, a light emission tube for emitting light by the light emitting energy stored in the main capacitor, and a trigger circuit for applying a trigger voltage to the light emission tube prior to the light emission of the light emission tube, a housing having therein a partition wall hermetically separating the interior of the housing to form a battery chamber and an electric circuit chamber there, the battery chamber being capable of being loaded with a battery for driving the electric circuit device, the electric circuit device being provided in the electric circuit chamber, a leak detecting device provided in the battery chamber for detecting the entry of water into the battery chamber and outputting a leak signal, and a control device provided in the electric circuit chamber and capable of receiving as an input the leak signal from the
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1992
    Assignee: Nikon Corporation
    Inventors: Hideki Matsui, Nobuyoshi Hagiuda, Hiroshi Sakamoto, Norikazu Yokonuma
  • Patent number: 5171086
    Abstract: In a first embodiment, a combination "ON", "OFF" and "DIRECTIONAL SWITCH" operates to turn the light the light on and off and operate a electric motor to drive the lamp longitudinally to facilitate a change of light beam focal length. In a second embodiment, a combination "ON", "OFF" and "DIRECTIONAL SWITCH" operates to turn the light on and off and to manually translate the light bulb longitudinally to facilitate a change of light beam focal length. In both of the embodiments the beam focal length is adjustable through an infinite number of positions between maximum and minimum translation limits and the flashlight maintains the selected light beam focal length until a different light beam focal length is selected. In each embodiment a replacement bulb is contained within the body of the flashlight and is external removable therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1992
    Inventor: Mohsen K. Baloochi
  • Patent number: 5136475
    Abstract: An improved marker light for temporary or emergency use in delineating the boundaries of safe aircraft landing areas and for other signalling purposes, the marker light having a cylindrical housing secured to the exterior of a ballast bag and provided with a lamp assembly and cover, the marker light being activated by rotation of the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1992
    Inventor: Kevin McDermott
  • Patent number: 5113326
    Abstract: A miniature flashlight having a barrel, a tail cap, a head assembly and means for holding a miniature lamp bulb and providing an interruptible coupling to dry cell batteries retained within the barrel. One way valves positoned at seal locations in association with passageways to allow venting of overpressure with the interior volume of the flashlight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1992
    Assignee: Mag Instrument, Inc.
    Inventor: Anthony Maglica
  • Patent number: 5103383
    Abstract: An all-weather, stable emergency signal lamp comprising a two-piece case, a rechargeable battery, a strobe light assembly and a dome lens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1992
    Inventor: Donald M. Mayhew
  • Patent number: 5070437
    Abstract: A submersible light includes a generally cylindrical housing body having a closed end and an open end. A light emitting diode and a plurality of batteries are provided in the body, and an end cap for the open end actuates the light by flexing a lead of the light emitting diode into engagement with the batteries. A clamp ring is provided on the outside of the cylindrical housing body under which a line can slip for snap-on attachment of the light to a fishing line and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1991
    Inventor: Joseph M. Roberts, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5021934
    Abstract: An easy turning on/off flash light and in particular to one by pressing the flashlight head downwardly, to turn the flashlight on/off and no needs to use finger to press switch. This particular flashlight comprises a bulbholder section, a restoring spring, a housing which mainly has a linking section and an engaging section and with the general parts, a lens, a flashlight head, a housing, a battery and a battery cover that this invention can perform its best performance which by pressing the flashlight head down, the linking section will bring the engaging section to spin to an angle where the engaging section will slide through a guide-rail and catched by a catch trough. Each time the flashlight head is pressed down, the engaging section will move to the next catch trough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 4, 1991
    Inventor: Hsisn-Der Hou
  • Patent number: 5016151
    Abstract: An underwater light source includes a sealed beam arc lamp within a wrought and machined, generally cylindrical aluminum housing. The watertight housing has an enlarged diameter at one end to receive the lamp and tapers to a smaller diameter at the other end, which receives the ignitor for the lamp. The larger end is covered with a heat resistant cover glass, and the smaller end is closed. A cylindrical accessory mounting ring is attached to the front end of the housing, and the ring has ventilation openings therein to release heat generated by the lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 14, 1991
    Assignee: Hydroimage
    Inventor: Richard Mula
  • Patent number: 5003440
    Abstract: The flashlight having a conductive barrel and a tailcap insert which provides for enhanced mechanical and electrical contact between the barrel and the batteries, provides for retaining a tailcap spring to the tailcap upon removal of the tailcap from the barrel, provides retainers to prevent the tailcap insert contacts from over radial extension and/or provides a one-way flow seal to permit outflow of gases produced during flashlight operation but to prevent ingress of material from ambient to within the battery housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1991
    Assignee: Mag Instrument, Inc.
    Inventor: Anthony Maglica
  • Patent number: 4996635
    Abstract: A generally funnel-shaped main light body has a socket assembly mounted therein for supporting a lamp inside a rear neck portion thereof. A dome-shaped lens extends across a front flared portion of the main light body. A water-tight seal is provided between a periphery of the lens and the flared portion of the main light body. A reflector is mounted inside the flared portion of the main light body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 26, 1991
    Assignee: Deepsea Power & Light, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark S. Olsson, Samuel B. Parker, Douglas G. Rimer
  • Patent number: 4985812
    Abstract: A compact battery-powered flashlight adapted for underwater use which includes a casing, an illumination unit, a sealant device, a connection device and a switch element. The casing is hollow and substantially oval in cross-section while having a closed rear end and a head receiving forward end. The head receiving forward end of the casing has a hollow outwardly protruding cylindrical neck. The casing further is adapted to receive at least two parallel adjacent rows of batteries with at least one battery per row. The casing neck is axially aligned with one of the rows of received batteries. The illumination unit is mounted upon the neck and generates light upon electrical connection to the batteries. The sealant device is disposed between the illumination unit and the neck for providing a watertight seal therebetween. The connection device is used to electrically connect the illumination device to the batteries received within the casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 15, 1991
    Inventor: Alan K. Uke
  • Patent number: 4924362
    Abstract: An illuminated article in the form of a garment or article of wearing apparel includes an electrically conductive harness mounted at predetermined locations on the outer surface of the garment. The harness includes a housing which waterproofingly encloses an illumination device, such as a light emitting diode. A pair of electrical conductors mounted in an elongated strip are connectable to the leads of the light emitting diodes. An electrical power source including a battery and an on/off switch is mounted in a waterproof housing and receives one end of the electrical conductors to connect the illumination devices to the battery for selectively illuminating the illumination devices. A plurality of harnesses may be mounted on the article and interconnected by a waterproof connector which connects the electrical conductors in each harness together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 8, 1990
    Assignee: Alliko Unlimited Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Janko, Matthew McAllister
  • Patent number: 4905129
    Abstract: A flashlight having a tail cap switch is disclosed. The tail cap is formed to fit in one end of the flashlight barrel for retaining one or more power cells therein. It is easily removable for replacement of the flashlight power cells. The tail cap has an integral switch for connecting and disconnecting the flashlight bulb to and from the power cells. A flexible boot is provided for enclosing an exposed portion of the switch when the tail cap is installed in the flashlight barrel. The flexible boot, which is formed of a resilient, water-resistant material, has a peripheral sealing portion which is formed to fit between the switch body and the barrel so as to form a watertight seal therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 27, 1990
    Inventor: Raymond L. Sharrah
  • Patent number: 4870550
    Abstract: A compact battery-powered flashlight adapted for underwater use which includes a casing, an illumination unit, a sealant device and a connection device. The casing is hollow and substantially oval in cross section while having a closed rear end and a head receiving forward end. The head receiving forward end of the casing has a hollow outwardly protruding cylindrical neck. The casing further is adapted to receive at least two parallel adjacent rows of batteries with at least one battery per row. The casing neck is axially aligned with one of the rows of received batteries. The illumination unit is mounted upon the neck and generates light upon electrical connection to the batteries. The sealant device is disposed between the illumination unit and the neck for providing a watertight seal therebetween. The connection device is used to electrically connect the illumination device to the batteries received within the casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1988
    Date of Patent: September 26, 1989
    Inventor: Alan K. Uke
  • Patent number: 4850669
    Abstract: The optical inspection apparatus consists of an explosion-proof light projector and a viewing periscope. In one embodiment, an external power source connects to an explosion-proof housing protectively enclosing a lamp. In another embodiment, the lamp, batteries, and a circuit are included within the explosion-proof housing, providing a fully portable, self-contained and explosion-proof light projector. A viewing periscope is provided for examination of meter tubes, tanks vessels and other enclosed machinery. An explosion-proof connector is also disclosed providing an explosion-proof and thermally resistant interface between a light source and a fiberoptic light guide. A timing circuit is also disclosed prolonging the operation time of the light projector on one charge of the battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 25, 1989
    Assignee: Welker Engineering Company
    Inventors: Robert H. Welker, Ken Smith
  • Patent number: 4800472
    Abstract: A battery powered lamp includes a two-part rigid casing comprising a hollow body with an end cap removably attached to the body and a water impermeable sock of flexible resilient material designed to fully enclose the body and partially enclose the end cap. The sock includes an annular rib trapped between the body and its attached cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 24, 1989
    Assignee: Ever Ready Limited
    Inventors: Colin R. Burton, Philip Davies
  • Patent number: 4796167
    Abstract: A water activated locus identifying device for attachment to articles apt to be lost in a body of water wherein the water activation serves to operate an electric light thereby making the locus of the article more easily identified.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 3, 1989
    Assignee: Kat Electronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas A. Brown, Kirk A. Martin
  • Patent number: 4789922
    Abstract: A light suitable to be mounted upon the wall of a building or a room thereof wherein the light contains an apparatus comprising a weighted object which will be displaced at the existence of an earthquake of a given, preset magnitude and upon being displaced will close a circuit activating an emergency light in such manner that occupants in the area may see the light and be guided by it. The light is battery activated and may be of the type which is continually charged by normal household current and may include a low drain test light to indicate battery condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1987
    Date of Patent: December 6, 1988
    Assignees: Thomas Cheshire, Douglas A. Stanek
    Inventor: Thomas Cheshire
  • Patent number: 4779174
    Abstract: This invention is concerned with a submersible illuminating device useful as a point of orientation for underwater swimmers, lighting means for swimming pool and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1986
    Date of Patent: October 18, 1988
    Inventors: Carlton F. Staten, Remelle Staten
  • Patent number: 4751621
    Abstract: A knife is provided with a light in its handle portion, with the light being actuated by a compression or threaded movement of a cap attached to an end of the handle. In a separate embodiment, the light may be actuated by a threaded movement of the handle end itself, while a protective cap may be positioned over the handle end and its associated light lens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1986
    Date of Patent: June 14, 1988
    Inventor: Edward L. Jenkins
  • Patent number: 4734832
    Abstract: A hand held spotlight includes a sealed beam enclosure together with one or more detachable handles. The detachable handles each include a latching mechanism capable of translating a magnet between a first position and a second position. A magnetically-actuated switch within the enclosure is used to turn off and on the light circuit. The handle is detachably mounted on the enclosure in a particular position so that the magnetically-actuated switch within the enclosure may be opened and closed by the magnet in the handle. In the preferred embodiments, a single enclosure may be utilized with either a pistol-style grip or a lantern-style grip. The ability to form the beam enclosure without penetrations is particularly useful in providing watertight and explosion-proof spotlights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1986
    Date of Patent: March 29, 1988
    Assignee: Tekna
    Inventors: Roger A. Moriano, Ralph F. Osterhout
  • Patent number: 4694822
    Abstract: A laryngoscope, has a blade and a hollow body including a handle and a cap, and also includes:(a) the handle adapted to receive a dry cell or cells, the handle having an open end,(b) the cap telescopically and removably interfitting the handle to close its open end, and a seal sealing off between the cap and handle,(c) a sealed window carried by the cap to pass light from a light source within the body to a predetermined zone at the cap exterior, whereby such light may be transmitted along the blade removably attached to the cap,(d) a flexible barrier carried by the cap to be deflected by the blade upon its attachment to the cap, the barrier sealing off between the cap interior and exterior,(e) and circuitry including a motion transmitting element to be deflected within the hollow body in response to barrier deflection to establish an ON condition of the circuitry for transmitting current from the dry cell to the light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1986
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1987
    Inventor: Jack Bauman
  • Patent number: 4683523
    Abstract: An elongate metal cylindrical body has a plurality of internal annular grooves for adjustable positioning of a lamp socket. A cylindrical metal sleeve screws over the forward end of the metal body. A quartz-halogen lamp extends through the forward end of the sleeve and tube and its contacts are received in corresponding receptacles in the socket. A cylindrical heat sink is screwed inside the metal sleeve and surrounds the base of the lamp, closely spaced therefrom. A relatively small protective glass envelope fits over the lamp and heat sink. The tapered rearward end of the glass envelope is held within a cavity in the forward end of the metal sleeve by a special radial seal, including an O-ring and a spiral retaining ring. The special seal also minimizes cracking of the envelope while providing a barrier to the entry of water under high pressure. A readily removable reflector assembly fits over the forward ends of the cylindrical metal body and sleeve and includes a perforated dome-shape protective cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1986
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1987
    Inventors: Mark S. Olsson, William H. Hagey, Brock J. Rosenthal
  • Patent number: 4680682
    Abstract: A waterproof flashlight in which there is utilized a lens housing movably mounted on a tubular barrel. Within the tubular barrel is located one or more batteries and also a light bulb with the light bulb to emit light through the lens housing. An elastomeric seal is to be located between the lens housing and the tubular barrel to prevent entry of water within the tubular barrel. A switch assembly is to be mounted on the tubular barrel which when moved will activate and deactivate the light bulb. The switch assembly includes a magnetically sensitive reed switch assembly mounted within the tubular barrel. This reed switch assembly is to be activated by a movable magnet mounted on the exterior surface of the tubular barrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1986
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1987
    Inventor: David H. Parker
  • Patent number: 4678290
    Abstract: For use in inspecting the interior pipelines and other machinery subjected to risk of explosive gasses, an improved explosive proof apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus includes a periscope assembly having an optical system and lamp sealed therein for viewing a specified area subject to illumination by the lamp. Moreover, a separate battery pack is included. A flow of nitrogen gas is delivered to the battery pack and periscope to surround the electrical components to thereby prevent explosion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1985
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1987
    Assignee: Welker Engineering Company
    Inventor: Robert H. Welker
  • Patent number: 4613931
    Abstract: A portable fiberoptic light source for use in hazardous environments includes such safety features as an aluminum housing with flame paths and cooling fins, explosion proof input connector, cable and cable plug, a shock-mounted lamp housing, a tempered heat absorbing filter, a pyrex shield and a heat shield.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1984
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1986
    Assignee: 501 Olympus Corporation
    Inventor: Elmar K. Messinger
  • Patent number: 4531178
    Abstract: A diver's flashlight having a unitary case with a closed end and with a battery pack in said case seated against a spring. A connector strip is positioned in the case and provides spaced-apart contactor portions at opposite ends of the case. A removable barrel is in watertight threaded engagement with the case and is positioned over a reflector block with a halogen lamp mounted in a reflector in the reflector block. Threading the barrel onto the case overcomes the spring pressure and completes the circuit between the bulb and the battery pack through the connector strip to switch the flashlight on and off. A battery charging unit incorporates a removable charging head which replaces the reflector block and barrel for in-place charging of the battery pack of the flashlight. In a second embodiment the lamp is adjustably mounted in the reflector block permitting selective positioning of the lamp with respect to the reflector to focus the flashlight beam in conjunction with the switch operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1984
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1985
    Inventor: Alan K. Uke
  • Patent number: 4530039
    Abstract: A multi-section multi-purpose hand light incorporates a shade casing, a head cover, a refraction hood, red filter lens and a body comprised of a number of cylindrical sections. The red filter lens can be releasably fastened to the retractable refraction hood. The light being emitted thereby will be a focused red light beam surrounded by an aureole of white light. This hand light may serve as a striking signal for help where needed to facilitate search and rescue efforts by a tracing team. The intensity of illumination can be increased by an increased number of the cylindrical sections. Spare bulbs or replacement parts can be stored in the bottom section of the body. The hand light also serves as a regular hand light by removing the red filter lens from the hood and coupling it to the bottom section of the hand light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1983
    Date of Patent: July 16, 1985
    Inventor: Steve S. Shin-Shi
  • Patent number: 4528619
    Abstract: A replaceable lamp unit (10) removably oriented within a glass or plastic reflector (13) of an automobile headlight. The unit includes a plastic cylindrical shaped holder (19) which is directly inserted within a rear opening (11) in the reflector. The holder includes a pair of spaced cavities (21, 23) separated by a common wall member (25) in which are located a plurality of electrically conductive eyelets (27). Fixedly positioned within each eyelet is a support wire (43) to which is connected a respective one of the lead-in wires (31) of the electric lamp (39) which forms part of the lamp unit. Connection between the eyelets and support wires is attained by soldering (45) and a quantity of sealant material (65) is thereafter added within the holder to provide a secondary seal. An automobile headlight utilizing the replaceable lamp unit is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1983
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1985
    Assignee: GTE Products Corporation
    Inventors: Richard J. Dolan, Frank Cangiano, John Van der Linde
  • Patent number: 4527223
    Abstract: An improved flashlight is disclosed which includes an improved mechanism for selectively varying the light beam intensity and area of illumination, an improved switch means, an improved light bulb and light bulb holder, and an improved manner of retaining dry cell batteries within said flashlight. The mechanism includes a double cam notch in a reflector support and abutting cam follower rotates cooperatively attached to a bulb holder to enable movement of the bulb forwardly and rearwardly relative to the light reflector through rotation of the head of the flashlight. The light bulb is configured to have a double pin electrical connection which plugs into a double socket thereby enabling the bulb and holder to have a smaller diameter encapable of passing through a smaller hole formed within the reflector. The switch is of the rotary type which wipes the contacts clean on rotation to enhance electrical conductivity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1984
    Date of Patent: July 2, 1985
    Assignee: Mag Instrument, Inc.
    Inventor: Anthony Maglica
  • Patent number: 4506314
    Abstract: A submersible lamp having a standardized air impervious housing with a lens formed therein in optical alignment with a bulb carried within the housing. The housing defines a predetermined quantity of air and has an opening at the lower end thereof such that upon submersion in water a limited amount of water is allowed to enter the housing, trapping the air within the housing and preventing the water from rising above a predetermined level. A channel is formed on the rear wall of the lamp housing to receive a bulb and bulb socket support bracket for the selective mounting and positioning of the bulb within the housing in accordance with the function which the lamp is to perform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1983
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1985
    Inventor: Dennis G. Moore
  • Patent number: 4503563
    Abstract: An electrical device in a buoyant, watertight housing, with electrical circuitry, including a battery, to illuminate an incandescent lamp to project either dispersed light or a beam through the translucent bottom of the housing, and to power a radio, as well as a water temperature thermometer. A handle is provided so that the device may be used as a portable lantern and/or radio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1983
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1985
    Assignee: Jandy Industries
    Inventor: Bruce R. Johnson
  • Patent number: 4472766
    Abstract: The present invention relates to torches. The torch described herein has two components which together define a case containing battery means and a bulb, with a seal located between the two components. The torch is operated by causing relative movement between the two components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1982
    Date of Patent: September 18, 1984
    Assignee: Freezinhot Bottle Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Kung C. Hung
  • Patent number: 4460941
    Abstract: A fishing lure light for use with fishing lines and a separate lure or bait. The light is comprised of a housing adapted to be tied to a fish line next to a fish lure. The housing is constructed of plastic and is water tight. It houses a battery and light bulb which is switched on and off by pressing a plastic cover against the housing or pulling it away to make and break switch contacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1982
    Date of Patent: July 17, 1984
    Assignee: LeBron, Inc.
    Inventor: David A. Miller
  • Patent number: 4458299
    Abstract: The magnetic switch is a plastic unit which is made up of a housing containing three pieces, a slideable magnet holder, a bracket, and a plastic leaf spring. The magnet holder and the bracket include keys and notches to provide positive "on" and "off" positions. The housing is aligned with a mercury wetted switch which is capable of handling large current surges without being damaged, whereby the magnet holder is depressed against the spring bias and slid into either the "on" or the "off" position.A hermetically sealed flashlight which includes the magnetic switch is also described. The flashlight comprises a case which is houses dry cells. A screw-on cap which includes a lens forms a hermetic seal when an O-ring is compressed as the cap is engaged.A reflector mount is aligned with the case using a notch and key system which insures the alignment of the mercury wetted magnetic switch and the housing for the magnet holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1981
    Date of Patent: July 3, 1984
    Assignee: Princeton Tectonics
    Inventors: Arthur W. Stephens, John J. Penrose
  • Patent number: 4441142
    Abstract: The battery assembly is housed in the casing of the flashlight so as to be axially slidable therein, whereby the displacement of said assembly in one direction closes the electrical circuit comprising the bulb, and the displacement in the opposite direction opens said circuit. A pushbutton radially extends from the flashlight casing. The said pushbutton is provided with a cam-shaped portion cooperating with an axially slidable cam follower to transmit the axial displacement to the battery assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1982
    Date of Patent: April 3, 1984
    Assignee: AMF Inc.
    Inventor: Giovanni Garofalo
  • Patent number: 4433366
    Abstract: A structure for providing a light in the side of a swimming pool beneath the water. The structure primarily is constructed from sheet metal and includes a bulb shield and receptacle, a front lens, a front mounting ring and a sealing ring. The sealing ring forces portions of the shield and the mounting ring into sealing arrangement with a ring seal mounted about the lens. The seal and the adjacent sealing structure allow steam which may be generated by heat from the enclosed bulb to escape into the water but prevent the water from entering the structure. The structure can be used in traditional concrete or Gunite pools and with an additional component, it can be installed in vinyl lined pools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1982
    Date of Patent: February 21, 1984
    Inventor: Charles E. Wade
  • Patent number: 4432046
    Abstract: A protective casing (20) for a lamp holder (10) for outdoor use comprises a cylindrical part (21) and a bowl-shaped base part (22) which are made of a relatively soft, elastic material and can be clamped axially together around an ordinary lamp holder (10). The engagement faces between the two parts are formed with radial recesses (27), which together form a hole for the lead-in of a cable and are dimensioned so that the cable is fixed upon the clamping. This provides a seal for the cable lead-in and also tension relief of the cable. Due to the clamping, a sealing ring (25) for the lamp (14, 15) is fixed between an end edge of the holder (10) and a rim flange (26) of the cylindrical part (21).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1982
    Date of Patent: February 14, 1984
    Inventor: Johannes S. Palsson
  • Patent number: 4429350
    Abstract: A subsurface light comprising an illumination source and an elongate handle attached to and extending from the illumination source. The length of the handle is adjustable. The light further includes a buoyant body having generally planar inboard and outboard services connected to the handle inboard of the illumination source. At least one plate secured to the buoyant body is mounted to the handle by an integral flap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1982
    Date of Patent: January 31, 1984
    Inventor: Gaylord N. Guthrie
  • Patent number: 4425607
    Abstract: An adhesively sealed beam lamp unit including a lens and reflector having substantially rectangular peripheries and cooperating and opposing step-shaped sealing surfaces located approximately about the lens and reflector peripheries. Contact between the lens and reflector sealing surfaces is limited to one or more portions along the long sides of a pair of opposing steps. Additionally reservoirs, located on either side of the sealing surfaces, restrict excess adhesive from spreading onto areas affecting lamp unit optical performance or outer dimensions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1982
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1984
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Bruce E. Shanks
  • Patent number: 4423472
    Abstract: A portable navigation light system for barges in which the legally required three lights are provided by a set of three, self-contained units. Each unit contains its own power supply, light activating mechanism, light source so configured as to show over the required arc of the horizon with the required range of visibility, and means for affixing the unit to the barge. Each unit incorporates an integral carrying handle and is configured so that the three units nest one inside of the other with their respective handles coinciding as one, thereby permitting the carrying of the nested units as one.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1982
    Date of Patent: December 27, 1983
    Inventor: Raymond H. Duthu
  • Patent number: 4420796
    Abstract: A simple compact robust device for dispersing light rays issuing from a light guide. The device has an elongated body of a rigid transparent material, an end of the body being tapered to define an inclined nearly conical peripheral surface, so that those light rays, entering into the body at a small angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the elongated body, are reflected back into the body by the internal boundary of the inclined surface and are directed to propagate at a larger angle, whereby collimated light rays, issuing from the light guide, are dispersed. The device is particularly useful in lighting systems utilizing solar radiation as a light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 1982
    Date of Patent: December 13, 1983
    Inventor: Kei Mori
  • Patent number: 4419716
    Abstract: A sealed vapor proof housing assembly in combination with a system for isolating an electrical device from the ambient atmosphere comprising a casing having a removable door to provide access to the interior of the casing, a first multiple number of heat exchange fins projecting from the casing into the atmosphere, a second multiple number of heat exchange fins projecting from the casing within the interior thereof for transferring heat from the interior to the ambient atmosphere, a sleeve liner disposed within the casing contiguous to the interior fins for forming a compartment with the liner having open ends spaced from the door and rear end of the casing. A fan is mounted on the liner for circulating air in a closed circulating pattern in intimate contact with the interior fins. Air is pumped into the casing through a one way valve and a pressure switch is electrically coupled to the fan and a power source for disabling the fan in response to a leak in the casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 1983
    Date of Patent: December 6, 1983
    Inventor: Stephen Koo
  • Patent number: 4394716
    Abstract: An underwater light assembly for internal illumination of swimming pools and the like which operates on batteries and does not require any externally-provided current. A partitioned compartment is detachably engaged within and against a transparent dome. The compartment houses weights to keep the assembly submerged in a pool of water. The compartment also houses the batteries and a power assembly for providing current to a lamp socket. The lamp socket is suspended within the compartment. A detachable seal is provided to seal the compartment within and against the transparent dome. A metal contact plate is provided on the detachable seal such that, when the seal is inserted and seals the compartment within and against the transparent dome, an electrical connection is completed and the power assembly supplies current to the lamp socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1981
    Date of Patent: July 19, 1983
    Assignee: Aqualume, Incorporated
    Inventors: Thomas G. Campagna, Alfred A. D'Andrea, Sr., Frank Campagna
  • Patent number: 4345305
    Abstract: A portable electronic safety flare including an elongate hollow tube, at least a portion of which is transparent; electronic strobe light circuit means in the tube; a strobe light mounted in the transparent portion of the tube and driven by the strobe light circuit means; a power supply disposed in the tube and interconnected with the strobe light circuit means; a push switch interconnected with the strobe light circuit means for actuating the strobe light; mounting means for supporting the push switch at a first end of the tube; first cap means for closing the first end of the tube; the first cap means having a flexible portion for permitting pressure to be applied through it to actuate the push switch; and second cap means for closing the second end of the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1980
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1982
    Assignee: Flik, Inc.
    Inventors: Henry H. Kolm, Eric A. Kolm
  • Patent number: 4342071
    Abstract: A lamp capable of underwater use comprises a rectangular acrylic body with elongate V-shaped recesses in a major surface each receiving an elongate Beta-light. An acrylic cover plate is sealed to the major surface and the body is secured to a steel backing plate with a neoprene layer between to help dissipate shock loadings. The sides of the recesses include an angle of 78.degree. to enhance reflection and may be formed by a reflective lining. The Beta-lights can be received in the grooves by shock absorbent O-rings grouped in pairs with adhesive in between. In a modification a disc-shaped Beta-light is encapsulated and received in a body formed by pour molding which is closed by a cap which is ultrasonically welded into place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1980
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1982
    Assignee: Challenger Diving Limited
    Inventor: William B. Chamberlain
  • Patent number: 4285031
    Abstract: A portable searchlight that can have a plurality of batteries and yet be conveniently held by one hand. The casing is shaped so as to be closely adapted to the shape of the batteries and is constructed from relatively soft materials, at least in the regions between the batteries, so as to provide deformable hand holding areas at those points. Further, the switch for controlling operation of the light is positioned internally of the casing and is operable therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 1978
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1981
    Inventor: Hans-Jurgen Reiss
  • Patent number: 4268894
    Abstract: A portable waterproof fluorescent lantern having a case impervious to the entry of water, a fluorescent lamp within the case, a self-contained power source within the case for powering the lamp and means for activating the power source which is waterproof and operatively associated with the case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1979
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1981
    Assignee: Duracell International Inc.
    Inventors: William Bartunek, Henry R. Mallory
  • Patent number: 4242724
    Abstract: A disposable, floating electric flashlight that glows in the dark and is illuminated by merely squeezing the flashlight casing. Any external switch actuator passing through the flashlight casing is thereby eliminated facilitating buoyancy. When the flashlight is illuminated, phosphorescent material within the internal walls of the flashlight casing is regenerated to cause the flashlight to glow in the dark. If the flashlight is accidentally dropped into water, the lamp is balanced to float the flashlight in a predetermined orientation to enable the glowing light to be quickly retrieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1979
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1980
    Inventor: Wilfred S. Stone