With Means To Position Plural Light Sources Colinearly Patents (Class 362/219)
  • Patent number: 6022125
    Abstract: The present invention is a combination metal halide and auxiliary light bulb floor or table lamp which is suitable for home or office illumination. The lamp includes a lampholder module which provides a unitary housing for the bulb sockets and the electrical components required to operate the bulbs. The module also positions each bulb relative to the others to minimize shadowing which results when a bulb casts a shadow due to the light emanating from another bulb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2000
    Assignee: Advanced Lighting Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: William E. Bartasevich, John J. Andrisin, III, John J. McEllen
  • Patent number: 6019486
    Abstract: A lighting device for displaying addresses, advertising indicia and other information includes modular housing which may be connected together to form various shapes. An insulating board is mounted in each of the modular housing and has upper and lower surfaces carrying electrically conductive material, with the board providing an insulating layer therebetween. Clips carrying electrical conductors interconnect the conductive materials on the board of adjacent housings. Electricity is transmitted through a clip to the board of one of the housings to provide illumination to illuminate the devices mounted on the boards in each housings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2000
    Inventor: Clyde E. Stewart, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6012825
    Abstract: A luminaire to illuminate an article to be visually inspected for surface defects includes a housing having an opening in a forward face thereof. At least one elongate light source is accommodated by the housing. At least one linear reflector is also accommodated by the housing. The at least one linear reflector has at least one forwardly directed, angled reflective surface that directs light emitted by the at least one elongate light source such that the luminaire projects light onto a specular surface of an article being inspected resulting in a plurality of laterally, spaced images of the at least one elongate light source being reflected by the specular surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Assignee: Lighting Dimensions
    Inventors: Terrence V. Horner, Chas Latter
  • Patent number: 5997157
    Abstract: A lamp shade includes a pair of brackets each having a number of orifices, and a number of rods having two ends engaged with the orifices of the brackets for allowing the rods to be secured between the brackets. The orifices are intersected with each other for forming a slot and for engaging with the ends of one or more plates. The brackets each includes a number of cavities communicating with the orifices and each having a square cross section for engaging with the ends of a number of beams and for allowing the beams to be secured between the brackets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Inventor: Shu O Chen
  • Patent number: 5999686
    Abstract: A fiber optic lighting system with a light bar configuration includes a plurality of individual spot lights selectively spaced along the light bar housing. The light bar is hollow and houses a plurality of coiled fiber optic bundles. Individual spot lights are formed by a bundle of fibers collected in a casing fitted with a rotatable ball. A locking cage surrounds the rotating ball. To position a spot light, the locking cage is loosened and the light is rotated into position. Then, the locking cage is tightened so as to securely grip the rotating ball. The locking cage prevents unintended movement of the spot light from a preferred direction. In a preferred embodiment, the locking cage includes a cap which has a threaded fitting arrangement with a base affixed to the light bar housing, and the cap is freely translatable on the base simply by screwing and unscrewing. Wash lighting might be provided additional fibers which project through openings and are cut flush with the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: Lightly Expressed, Ltd.
    Inventor: William Leaman
  • Patent number: 5984489
    Abstract: The lighting assembly uses fluorescent tubes arranged in a circular configuration around a tree, for illumination of the tree and an area around the tree with low power consumption. An outer protective tube is provided around the fluorescent lighting, and an adjustable bracket is provided for mounting the fluorescent lighting and protective tubing assembly to allow the lighting to be adjusted to accommodate a range of tree diameters. Each bracket includes a body with a base portion including a foot member adapted to rest on the tree, with the foot member being slidably attachable to the base portion, for slidably adjusting the lighting system to the diameter of the tree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventor: Adam Rubenstein
  • Patent number: 5964518
    Abstract: A flexible decorative lamp system including a plurality of lamp strips and a plurality of connectors adapted to connect each two lamp strips in series, wherein each connector includes a cylindrical connector body having a longitudinal center through hole of triangular cross section, two terminal elements connected together and mounted in the connector body, and two screw caps respectively fastened to two opposite ends of the connector body to hold two lamp strips in connection to the terminal elements at two opposite sides; the lamp strips have a triangular cross section fitting the longitudinal center through hole of the cylindrical connector body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1999
    Inventor: Ya-Kuang Shen
  • Patent number: 5957568
    Abstract: Improvements in components for mounting decorative light strings to various mounting sites include a plurality of track channels for holding light strings. Track channels may be attached to the mounting site with various fasteners or with snap buttons. The track channels may include an upper panel, legs extending downward from the upper panel and base panels parallel to the upper panel. The base panels may define a snap channel therebetween. The snap buttons may be received in the snap channels defined by the base panels to secure the track channel to the mounting site. A translucent cover for enclosing the string of lights and mounting the string of lights to the mounting site is also included. The cover provides an enclosed elongated space in which a string of lights may be disposed. The elongated translucent cover preferably has parallel side legs and an arcuately shaped top portion to cover the string of lights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Inventor: Thomas L. Byers
  • Patent number: 5924785
    Abstract: A light source arrangement includes at least a lighting cell which includes a cell body having a concave light projecting surface and a semi-spherical reflecting cavity surrounded by the concave light projecting surface, a luminary electronic diode cell having two electric terminals extended therefrom, an electrode supporter mounted on the cell body to support the luminary electronic diode cell positioning within reflecting cavity at a focus point of the concave light projecting surface for emitting light towards the concave light projecting surface upon energized, whereby all the emitting light from the luminary electronic diode cell is accumlatively collected and reflected by the concave light projecting surface to provide high intensity light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1999
    Inventors: Lu Xin Zhang, Long Bao Zhang
  • Patent number: 5922605
    Abstract: A polymerization apparatus includes a support plate for supporting a workpiece to be polymerized and a hood comprising a light source for guiding light to the workpiece such that the light impinges on at least two sides of the workpiece. The hood is liftable relative to the support plate so as to allow access to the workpiece when in a lifted position. A heat source for heating the workpiece is provided. A control device controls the function of the polymerization apparatus. A method for operating the polymerization apparatus includes the steps of heating the workpiece to a desired temperature after switching on the light source, maintaining the desired temperature for a desired polymerization cycle time period, and subsequently shutting down the light source and the heat source for a final polymerization cycle time period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Assignee: Ivoclar AG
    Inventors: Markus Feurstein, Jurgen Mertins
  • Patent number: 5914573
    Abstract: An electrical go-go light belt includes a sawtooth or step-wave generator. The sawtooth or step-wave is transmitted to a lamp section via a drive line, the voltage of the rising sawtooth or step-wave being supplied to a voltage divider to trigger silicon controlled rectifiers and turn on any bulbs that are connected in series with the rectifiers one by one. The rearmost bulb in a preceding lamp section is turned on to trigger the sawtooth or step-wave generator of the relay circuit of the next lamp section so as to turn on the bulbs of that section, the last bulb of which triggers the sawtooth or step-wave relay of a further section, and so forth. A control system regulates the frequency of the sawtooth or step-waves emitted by the sawtooth or step wave generator of the current lamp section, and the relay circuits, in order to control the rate at which bulbs are turned on.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1999
    Inventor: Yuan Lin
  • Patent number: 5908235
    Abstract: The present invention features an integrated, electronic fluorescent ballast fixture which includes an electronic ballast packaged with a set of fluorescent lamp connectors into an integral fixture. The fixture has a circuit board that selectably supports up to four fluorescent lamps. The housing of the fixture id configured to receive a number of lamp connectors. The connectors are electrically, connected to the circuit board use wire and poke-in type connectors. When used with conventional, straight fluorescent lamps, a second set of sockets at the far end of the lamps are also connected to the circuit board using wires received in poke-in connector on the circuit board. The integrated ballast package also works with U-shaped lamps. The housing of the fixture is shaped to accommodate projecting electronic ballast components attached to the circuit board. The transformers and transistors of the circuit board may be thermally sinked, so that their heat is carried to the housing by thermally conductive means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 1, 1999
    Assignee: JRS Technology Inc.
    Inventors: James R. Petrozello, Fletcher W. Chapin, David W. Dranchak, Robert M. Murcko, Scott W. Knauss, Robert H. Katyl, John R. Susko
  • Patent number: 5906427
    Abstract: A fluorescent light fixture that includes a lamp assembly having a circuit board therein where various components for the lamp's operation are provided; lamp fixing members for connecting the lamp by inserting them into both ends of the lamp assembly; an upper cover covering the top surface of the lamp assembly; a connector connected to the lamp fixing member through an installation groove at one end of the lamp assembly; and a coupler coupling a multiple connectors. Therefore, the lamp has an improved structure of the lamp assembly in order to allow the lamp itself to be replaced, and improved connections between the lamp assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1999
    Assignee: Boam R & D Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shi Youl Noh
  • Patent number: 5887963
    Abstract: This lighting apparatus consists of an elongated double bulb mounted to a flash unit and extending through two reflector devices. The first of these reflectors is conical and upwardly directed and the second of these reflectors is curved and forwardly directed. The extended bulb comprises a pair of short bulbs joined by a connector forming an electrical and mechanical connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1999
    Inventor: Johnny B. Baijan
  • Patent number: 5785411
    Abstract: An improved track lighting system wherein a plurality of lamps are mechanically connected to a flexible track by metal connectors which also serve as the electrical connection for the lamps. The connectors include a stem which mounts along a central groove in the flexible track and have resiliently opposed arcuate members to releasably mount a conical or cylindrical end of the lamp. The electrical connection is achieved by a leg member which extends from the top of one of the arcuate members to the side of the track, where a foot member contacts an electric wire disposed within the side of the track. Each side of the track has a wire extending longitudinally along its length. When alternating connectors contact the two wires, an electric current can be generated through the lamp. The connectors can be selectively located anywhere along the track to place the lamp in a desire position, and the connectors are easily removed and replaced in the central groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Assignee: Tivoli Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Neil M. Komai, Thomas T. Nagano
  • Patent number: 5775797
    Abstract: The line-illumination device has a carrier (1), a plurality of tubular lamps (2) and a screen (5). Mounting brackets (7), which may be mounted to the screen (5) in any area of its length, are coupled to the screen (5) and to suspension brackets (6), which are coupled to the carrier (1) in a free area thereof. The suspension brackets (6) have a first hole (60) which extends up to the circumference of the bracket, and which may have a narrowed portion adjacent said circumference. A first pin (73) of the mounting brackets (6) is supported in said hole (60) and may be unround so as to be able to pass through the narrowed portion of the hole (60) in a rotational position which is different from rotational positions in which the pin (73) is supported in the hole (60). The construction of the device allows for an easy and fast assembling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Assignee: U.S. Philips Corporation
    Inventor: Greald Henstra
  • Patent number: 5765939
    Abstract: Improved structures for housing assemblies for illuminated glass tubing are provided with this invention which comprises a housing assembly with a base section having wall portions forming an elongated channel having an open side; a central section having wall portions forming an elongated channel having an open side; and a light-transmitting cover section having wall portions forming an elongated channel having an open side; the central section secured to the cover section to form a light unit, the light unit being shorter than the base section; an elongated support plate for glass tubing, the wall portions of the central section including means adjacent the open side of the central section channel for supportably receiving the support plate in the channel; and the wall portions of the base section and the central section including means for securing the central section to the base section in snap-fit relation to close said open sides of said channels; whereby the longitudinal position of the light unit on t
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Assignee: Fallon Luminous Products Corporation
    Inventor: Walter Keisler Tanner, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5755507
    Abstract: An apparatus for providing lighting for store fronts or advertising signs without areas of dimming comprising a channel member, at least one transition section which overlaps the ends of two adjacent elongated tube lights, two end sections, and lamp receptacles disposed in the transition sections and end sections. The transition sections can alternatively interconnect channel light trays to form a continuous channel member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1998
    Assignee: GBM Supply, Inc.
    Inventor: Harold D. Hucks
  • Patent number: 5743626
    Abstract: The present invention is a unique lighting system. The lighting system includes a unique mount and mounting system, a unique lampholder and a unique power conditioning circuit arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1998
    Assignee: Grimes Aerospace Company
    Inventor: Richard Walker
  • Patent number: 5743625
    Abstract: A longitudinally curved, modular housing assembly for the protective support of illuminated glass tubing, such as neon lights, characterized by interconnected base, central, and cover sections which are all curved and have equal radii of curvature. The configuration of the housing assembly is such that it permits combination thereof with other, similar, housing assemblies to provide continuous lighting systems having various shapes and outlines. The housing assembly preferably contains a transformer and wiring for connection to a power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1998
    Assignee: Fallon Luminous Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Walter Keisler Tanner
  • Patent number: 5702176
    Abstract: A device for electrically connecting two modular light units respectively having free ends which include male and female double insulated connector plug means for electrically connecting the units together. The device includes an electrical cable having closed ends, male and female double insulated plug means respectively mounted on the opposite ends of the cable with the connector having a connector portion, a body portion rearward of the connector portion and being mounted on the cable end. The connector plug body includes a pair of laterally extending arms rearward of the connector portion. A removable cover is associated with each of the ends of the modular light units and at least two of the covers are associated with each of the connector plates. Those covers have removable knockout portions formed therein configured to define an opening in the cover generally complementary to the periphery of the body of the connector plug for receiving the body. The body is removably secured to its associated cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Assignee: JJI Lighting Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph D. Engle
  • Patent number: 5701050
    Abstract: An immersion lamp for a photochemical reactor with a discharge tube fitted in an outer bulb through which an inert gas flows having a lamp bulb with axially opposite mechanically stable electric terminals is held and contacted in a holder in the outer bulb, and the outer bulb is tubular and has at least one open end projecting into a hollow space in a connector head to provide electric contact and a secure mechanical support; the open end of the outer bulb is surrounded by at least one elastic seal which is surrounded axially by two inelastic metal plates laid on it having cut-outs for the passage of the end of the outer bulb and screws; the pressure exerted by said screws deforms the elastic seal radially to such an extent that it seals against both the outer wall at the end of the outer bulb and the inner wall of the hollow space and secures the outer bulb centrally in the connection head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 23, 1997
    Assignee: Heraeus Noblelight GmbH
    Inventors: Christoph Wolf, Manfred Daus
  • Patent number: 5688041
    Abstract: A demarcation lighting system for separating danger zones and work areas, includes a transparent lamp assembly accommodating a lamp and being made of tubular, flexible material. Each axial end of the lamp assembly is equipped with a coupling for allowing a detachable connection of a further lamp assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1997
    Assignee: Georg Robel GmbH & Co.
    Inventor: Dieter Arndt
  • Patent number: 5658066
    Abstract: Individual fixture sections of a continuous row lighting assembly are joined together with end panels of adjacent sections abutting one another. The abutting end panels include registered apertures which carry an L-shaped fastener. Each fastener includes a first leg which engages the inner face of one end panel and a second leg having a threaded aperture which carries a screw. The screw is tightened to bear against the inner face of the other end panel to secure the fixture sections together in a continuous row.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 19, 1997
    Assignee: Linear Lighting Corp.
    Inventor: William Hirsch
  • Patent number: 5658067
    Abstract: A modular light unit is disclosed which has a housing including an openable access panel with an electric lamp mounted in the housing. The housing has opposed ends which respectively mount male and female double insulated electrical connector plug means therein for electrically connecting the light unit to another light unit. The double insulated connector is formed with fully isolated terminals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 19, 1997
    Assignee: Munters Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph D. Engle, John R. Howard, Robert Machacek, George S. Boznos
  • Patent number: 5636919
    Abstract: The present invention is a unique lighting system. The lighting system includes a unique mount and mounting system, a unique lampholder and a unique power conditioning circuit arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 10, 1997
    Assignee: Grimes Aerospace Company
    Inventor: Richard Walker
  • Patent number: 5628557
    Abstract: An assembly tube light including at least two tube lights and at least one connector for connecting each two tube lights either in line or at right angles, each tube light having a first conductor, a second conductor, a plurality of bulbs respectively connected between the first conductor and the second conductor, and two coupling units at two opposite ends, each coupling unit including two diagonal pairs of plug holes arranged in a square and respectively connected to the first conductor and the second conductor, each connector having two pairs of parallel contact pins arranged in a square corresponding to the plug holes of each coupling unit for inserting into two plug hole on a first tube light and two plug hole on a second tube light for permitting them to be fastened together and electrically connected in series, the two contact pins of the same pair being electrically connected together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 13, 1997
    Assignee: Shining Blick Enterprises Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Peter K. L. Huang
  • Patent number: 5595432
    Abstract: A fighting fixture disclosed is designed for installation in a cove of a public transit vehicle providing ready access to a space behind it, without requiring a variety of specially designed fixtures for special access requirements. The fixture comprises a pair of battens extending generally vertically to support the fixture, a longitudinally extending card panel supported in movable relationship by the battens and having a groove adapted to mount an advertisement card, a socket connected to each of the battens cooperating to mount a fluorescent lamp, and a bezel supported by the battens and supporting a lens covering the mounted lamp. Access to the space is obtained by releasing a lower edge of the card panel and rotating it about pivot pins to an open position. Similarly, the bezel is pivoted to provide access to the mounted lamp. An advertisement car card placed on the card panel is retained at a lower edge by the card panel throughout the pivotal displacement of the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1997
    Assignee: Gulton Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Troy Vanderhoof
  • Patent number: 5564818
    Abstract: A modular cove lighting system is formed of low voltage, cold cathode light fixtures connected together in parallel. The modular system is capable of providing uniform illumination along its length. The modular system advantageously includes a plurality of straight lamps and at least one curved lamp. Through special matching of ballasts and appropriate lamps, the lamps will dim evenly with each other, regardless of the lengths and shapes of the lamps. A shield is provided for covering bright spots. Multicolor systems formed of one or more light fixtures are also disclosed. A recessed light fixture is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1996
    Assignee: Neon and Cathode Systems
    Inventors: Steven H. Grossman, Richard E. Grossman
  • Patent number: 5541823
    Abstract: A housing assembly for protective support of illuminated glass tubing of the neon tube type comprising a base section, a central section, and a transparent cover section, each having wall portions forming an open sided elongated channel, a support plate mounted in the central section, elongated glass tubing disposed in the cover section and supportably mounted on the support plate in fastening clips, the base, central, and cover sections being formed of resiliently deformable material, such as plastic, and being assembled in snap-fit relation with each other to enclose the open sides of the channels. End caps enclose ends of the cover and central channels and protect the glass tubing and an electrical transformer and wiring disposed therein against weather.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 30, 1996
    Assignee: Fallon Luminous Products Corp.
    Inventors: Timothy R. Fallon, Walter K. Tanner, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5521805
    Abstract: A fluorescent lamp has a simple construction that makes assembly convenient, improves productivity, and makes convenient connecting a plurality of fluorescent lamps. The fluorescent lamp has an elongated body, a pair of caps slidably coupled to opposite ends of the body, a pair of terminal members slidably coupled to the caps, a circuit board disposed over the body and connected at its opposite ends with the connecting terminal members, a pair of lead wires connected with the circuit board, a lamp adhering at its opposite ends to the caps, and a cover coupled to upper portions of the caps and body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1996
    Inventor: Young G. Lim
  • Patent number: 5493482
    Abstract: The subject invention is a portable, multiple lamp, fluorescent work light encased in a durable, light-weight tubular case employing resilient end caps. The tubular shell and the resilient end caps, when tied together with a single structural rod, form a strong, durable structure which can be opened by unscrewing just one external nut. The resilient end caps combine three different functions in one item such that weight, size and cost can be reduced. The invention is intended for work or construction sites where a considerable amount of temporary, rugged lighting needs to be deployed rapidly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1996
    Inventor: Donald A. Bowen
  • Patent number: 5473522
    Abstract: A modular luminaire consists of a rectangular housing having a top, first and second sides and first and second ends, with an open light-emitting bottom. Elongated reflector members are located in a side-by-side relationship in the housing for independently reflecting the light from a compact fluorescent lamp from each of the reflector members out of the open bottom of the housing. The reflector members may be made as a single unit or as separate, independent individual units. The edges of the separate, individual reflector members are made to releaseably interconnect with one another; so that any desired number of reflector members and corresponding compact fluorescent lamps may be mounted in a side-by-side relationship in housings of different widths to provide the desired amount of light. Fixtures are designed to replace HID lamps and conventional, low efficiency fluorescent lamp luminaires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 5, 1995
    Assignee: Sportlite, Inc.
    Inventors: Dale Kriz, Jerold Tickner
  • Patent number: 5453917
    Abstract: A decorative tube with neon tube to be fixed to an installing base compises a transparent tubular body, a neon tube and a transformer. The neon tube and the transformer are provided within the transparent tubular body, and the transformer is for properly setting the neon tube into a luminous state. A decorative tube is fixed various installing bases, for example installing base made of steel pipe, section steel, wall, or scaffold set up at a construction site. A decorative tube is also made of hard tubular body with an opening on its circumferential wall according to the region wherein the neon tube is disposed. The decorative tube with neon enhances the appearance of construction sites or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 26, 1995
    Assignee: Kasyu International Corporation
    Inventor: Hiroaki Ogawa
  • Patent number: 5436813
    Abstract: A new and improved illumination apparatus and method of making and using it for illuminating large and small areas, such as the exterior and interior of a motor vehicle, building structure or the like. The apparatus includes an elongated neon tube for radiating bright glowing light both radially and axially, an elongated tube holder for holding the neon tube stationary relative to a mounting surface, an energy conversion device adapted to be coupled to a source of low voltage power for electrically energizing the neon tube, and a mounting arrangement to secure the energy conversion device within the tube holder without blocking the bright glowing light radiating axially from the neon tube. The preferred method of using the apparatus is mounting the apparatus to a surface in close proximity to an area to be illuminated and coupling the apparatus to a source of low voltage direct current electrical power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 25, 1995
    Assignee: U.S. Neon Corporation
    Inventor: Jaime D. Gonzalez
  • Patent number: 5436816
    Abstract: First and second light fixtures, each mounting a fluorescent lamp, are interconnected by a flexible conduit which conducts electrical interconnections between the lamps and a ballast located in one of the fixtures. The flexible conduit permits orienting the respective fixtures to accommodate positioning along a variety of curved paths at the installation site. A three-part lamp support structure featuring a pair of resiliently-biased receptacle arms for receiving a twin tube fluorescent lamp is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 25, 1995
    Assignee: Tivoli Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas T. Nagano
  • Patent number: 5434755
    Abstract: A system for illuminating a light emitting panel for backlighting a visual display positions the panel behind the visual display at a front wall of a processor cabinet. The light emitting panel has at least one layer of optical fibers which extend from the panel and are bundled and terminated in one or more receptors which are mounted in the cabinet remote from the panel and visual display. A cover is hinged to the cabinet and mounts a light source in operative alignment with the receptors when the cover is closed to illuminate the panel and display. The cover can be swung open to position the light source in a maintenance position in which light bulbs of the source can be removed and replaced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1995
    Assignee: Allen-Bradley Company, Inc.
    Inventors: David A. Corathers, Peter A. Morell, Oral G. Lyons, Mark J. Duewiger
  • Patent number: 5422800
    Abstract: A mounting member for a line illumination comprises single ended compact fluorescent lamp and a plurality of double ended tubular fluorescent lamps arranged in line and mounted in pairs and with its cap located. The mounting member is a T-shaped, light transmitting body, in which respective parts of two pairs of lamp holders are mounted, back to back, remote from each other, so as to allow the compact fluorescent lamp to be accommodated there between.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 6, 1995
    Assignee: U.S. Philips Corporation
    Inventors: Jean Paul Entrop, Gerrit J. Van Den Beld
  • Patent number: 5410458
    Abstract: An illuminated landscape edging composed of a planar member which is structured to be implanted into the ground and by a tubular member which is structured to be located above ground. In the preferred form of the invention, the tubular member is light passable and is provided with a slit running its length. Both the planar and tubular members are integrally constructed of plastic. The illuminated landscape edging is elongated and is provided in long rolls which may be cut into sections to suit the length needs of a particular landscaping job. Sections of the illuminated landscape edging are joined by a slotted tubular connector inserting into open ends of adjoining tubular members. A lighting string, such as miniature Christmas lights, is inserted into the tubular member via passage through the slit in the tubular member progressively therealong. A slot in the slotted tubular connector enables the lighting string to be passed therethrough, as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 25, 1995
    Inventor: Terence Bell
  • Patent number: 5390094
    Abstract: An all-weather cold-cathode lighting assembly comprising a series of elongated cold cathode lamp sections electrically interconnected and arrayed in a predetermined geometric configuration having a first end, at least one intermediate bend, and a second end; a series of spaced lampholders including single-socketed endmost feed lampholders supporting the first and second ends of the array and intermediate double-socketed lampholders supporting and electrically connecting adjacent intermediate end portions of the intermediate lamp sections; a weather-proof lens assembly comprising a plurality of elongated transparent or translucent thermoplastic housing sections having walls of generally inverted U-shaped cross section, said housing sections being arrayed congruently with and substantially enclosing said series of lamp sections; said lens housing sections being butted and adhesively joined with clear cement to establish an effectively unitary lens having said predetermined geometric configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 14, 1995
    Assignee: National Cathode Corp.
    Inventor: Jim Evanisko
  • Patent number: 5386357
    Abstract: The invention relates to a light box including (a) a plurality of elongated L-shaped top sections abutted length-wise end-to-end, each of the top sections having a top flange substantially horizontally oriented and an integral back flange substantially vertically oriented; and (b) a plurality of bottom sections where the bottom sections are attached to the top sections; and (c) a single elongated translucent lens slidably secured between the outer edges of the top and bottom sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 31, 1995
    Assignee: Shell Oil Company
    Inventors: John F. Tryon, Jennings M. Ledbetter
  • Patent number: 5371661
    Abstract: A lighting fixture retrofitting apparatus for retrofitting old technology lighting tube fixtures, with smaller high efficiency lighting tubes, and having a lamp socket housing attachable to the existing ballast cover plate of an existing lighting fixture, a lamp socket opening in the housing, a high efficiency electrical lamp socket supported on the housing, and, fastenings for attaching the housing to the ballast cover of the existing lighting fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 6, 1994
    Inventor: Alexander L. Simpson
  • Patent number: 5357412
    Abstract: A device for line illumination comprises a carrier and a plurality of double ended tubular fluorescent lamps arranged in line and mounted in pairs of lamp holders. Between each two lamps a capped, single ended compact fluorescent lamp is present and with its cap proximate the carrier. The device may also comprise a screen having a side facing the carrier. The tubular and the compact fluorescent lamps are then located at the side facing the carrier. A T-shaped, light transmitting mounting member is provided in which respective parts of two pairs of lamp holders are mounted, back to back, remote from each other, so as to allow a compact fluorescent lamp to be accommodated therebetween. The device provides a light line of homogeneous brightness giving an even illumination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 18, 1994
    Assignee: U.S. Philips Corporation
    Inventors: Jean Paul Entrop, Gerrit J. Van Den Beld
  • Patent number: 5353786
    Abstract: A lighting device for a surgical operating room comprises a light source for generating visible electromagnetic radiation, at least one light output operatively connected to the light source for emitting and directing the electromagnetic radiation, and an attachment component connected to the light output for removably attaching the light output to a patient. The light output or outlets are mounted to a surgical retractor or, alternatively, to a flexible tube with an adhesive layer for temporarily binding the tube to a skin surface of the patient. The tube is also provided with a form retention element for enabling the tube to be bent to conform to a surgical site. A disposable transparent sheath surrounds the tube or the retractor. Other forms of the lighting device include goosenecks and a frame disposable on the operating table over the patient. In every case, the light source is a cold light source, i.e. spaced from the light output or outlets by an optical fiber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 11, 1994
    Inventor: Peter J. Wilk
  • Patent number: 5272607
    Abstract: A lighting fixture suspendable from a ceiling above a working area for illuminating a workplace includes two fixture parts spaced from each other in longitudinal direction and each radiating light generated by at least one fluorescent lamp exclusively toward the top side thereof. Arranged above and at a distance to the first and second fixture parts is a reflector by which a fraction of upwardly radiated incident light rays is downwardly reflected in direction of the workplace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1993
    Assignee: Thorn Licht GmbH
    Inventor: Manfred Grimm
  • Patent number: 5260859
    Abstract: An elongated strip light for use with low voltage, tubular lamps having conical end contacts. The lighting unit has an angle strip made of an insulating material to which a pair of electrically conductive tracks are mounted on the outside of the strip. A series of U-shaped, spaced-apart lamp holders are riveted to the inside of the angle strip. The rivets and the holders are arranged so that the holders are alternatingly electrically connected to one or the other electrically conductive track so that each pair of proximate holders mounted to the angle strip is of a different polarity. The holders further define resilient arms, each provided with a hole for receiving, holding and electrically connecting conical contact ends of the lamps with the holders to thereby energize the lamps when the conductive strips are connected to a source of electric power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1989
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1993
    Inventor: Horst Lettenmayer
  • Patent number: 5226724
    Abstract: A modular, fluorescent, indirect lighting system which may be easily mounted to most surfaces by the user, without any technical knowledge or experience, using just a screwdriver and measuring tape. The system is comprised of a family of plug-in modules, each of which contain an integral power bus (84 and 86), that provides power continuity to the adjacent module, and a gender conversion plug (42) that allows the installer to configure each module so that power is supplied only from female connectors. The system includes a power source module (110) and three sizes of illumination modules (156, 158 and 52), which house single 20, 30 or 40 watt lamps, as well as inside and outside corner modules (118 and 122) and both straight and corner adjustable-length modules (128 and 148). Modules selected from this family can be plugged together to create a cove lighting system for a room of almost any size or shape. The complete installation is powered by a neat line cord (116) plugged into a standard wall outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1993
    Inventor: Shepard S. Kanarek
  • Patent number: 5221139
    Abstract: A fluorescent lighting fixture provides shadowless linear lighting. A support member is provided for supporting a plurality of lamp supports. The lamp supports support the fluorescent lamps on an angle, so that the non-socket end of the fluorescent lamp overlaps the socket of an adjacent lamp so as to provide shadowless linear lighting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1993
    Assignee: Lighting World Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce D. Belfer
  • Patent number: 5221138
    Abstract: A light fixture has opposed ends terminating in end panels, the housing having top and bottom walls and sides defining a light-emitting area, the top wall being provided with a rail. A pair of spaced lamp holders for supporting a fluorescent lamp is supported by insertable support means which are secured to the undersurface of the top wall. An elongated reflector extends between the ends of the housing and is positioned in the light-emitting area and fastened to the support means. A conduit-receiving opening is provided in each panel and is covered by a dome plug, each panel also having an opening for removably supporting a circuit plug. In a support system for adjustably supporting several light fixtures in an end-to-end relationship, each fixture having a top provided with a coupling member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1993
    Assignee: Ready Metal Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Paul Bostjancic, Len Laskowski
  • Patent number: 5207503
    Abstract: A festoon style lamp containing xenon gas. The xenon lamp (22) has cylindrical, conical tipped end caps (36a) and (36b), a tungsten filament (34), and a cylindrical bulb (32). The end caps (36a) and (36b) are made of conductive material such as aluminum or nickel-plated brass, and are designed to adapt the lamp to fit into spade shaped contacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1993
    Assignee: Lucifer Lighting Company
    Inventor: Donald D. McLaughlin