With Or Including Transparent Or Translucent Member Patents (Class 362/223)
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Patent number: 7213936Abstract: A structure of direct type backlight module with high uniform emitting light explores a design of lenticular lens of diffusing plate. The lenticular lens is against the central location of light source, where the light of lamp is scattered and the curvature of said lenticular lens far away light source is enlarged, then to reduce the scatter effect and achieve uniformity. The other lenticular lens also can be designed for light location and distance. Each lenticular lens is against light location, and incident light can be reflected through the angle of microstructure surface at the entrance facet, but farther location can be resulted in total refraction due to large inclined angle, and diminishing the transmission light of light source then influencing the uniformity, finally reducing total reflection of wide angle.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2005Date of Patent: May 8, 2007Assignee: Entire Technology Co., Ltd.Inventors: Jyh Horng Wang, Jen-Huai Chang, Kai-Hsin Li
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Patent number: 7213952Abstract: To provide an interior illuminator for an automobile that can produce a decorative effect by illumination in addition to illuminating the interior of the automobile and has a simple structure and a small size. A secondary light emitting unit is provided around primary light emitting units 5 and 6 for illuminating the interior of the automobile. A housing 2 that holds the primary light emitting units 5, 6 and the secondary light emitting unit is provided. The secondary light emitting unit has a U-shaped light guide body 21, light emitting elements 8 and 9 for launching light into the light guide body at the ends thereof, and a light emitting element control unit 11 for controlling the light emitting elements 8 and 9.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2005Date of Patent: May 8, 2007Assignee: Honda Access CorporationInventor: Shiro Iwai
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Patent number: 7213937Abstract: A backlight module. The backlight module comprises a housing, a light source disposed on the housing, a diffuser positioned over the light source and a spacer disposed between the housing and the diffuser to maintain a distance therebetween. The spacer comprises a supporting portion to support the diffuser to maintain the separation and a base connected to the supporting portion and fixed on the housing. The base comprises a hook engaging the housing and a connecting portion connecting the supporting portion and the hook. A reflective layer is formed on the supporting portion to reflect the light from the light source.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2004Date of Patent: May 8, 2007Assignee: AU Optronics Corp.Inventor: Yi-Shiuan Tsai
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Patent number: 7204603Abstract: A lighting system includes a suspended light fixture, a skin, and a plurality of alignment sights. The suspended light fixture includes a supporting spine. The skin partially surrounds the spine. The skin is supported by the spine at at least three points including an adjustable point. The skin is substantially more flexible than the spine. The spine has a plurality of suspension points that define a longitudinal axis. The plurality of alignment sights are connected to the skin along an axis defining a leveling axis. The leveling axis is substantially parallel to and offset from the longitudinal axis.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2005Date of Patent: April 17, 2007Assignee: Pent Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Geza T. Lanczy, Rodney A. Williams, Gregg E. Laukhuf
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Patent number: 7192158Abstract: A linearly extensible modular luminaire comprised of mounting tracks (100,180) and translationally offset overlapping channels (211,212), with incorporated luminous means, alone or along with hangers (331,332,731) that provide support for cover brackets (431,731) that are attached to light modifying coverings (400,900), and wherein linearly radiated light is distributed directly, or in combination with coverings indirectly or modified, when connected with a source of power and energized. Also, the modular luminaire that is not extensible but otherwise comprised of same components not translationally offset, permitting the construction of a wide variety of luminaires, such as the one in FIG. 11, that incorporates a canopy (150) for mounting over lighting outlet boxes.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2004Date of Patent: March 20, 2007Inventor: Ross Robert Eppler
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Patent number: 7192159Abstract: A backlight module having a truss type structure comprises a plurality of truss type members, a reflector and at least a light source. The truss members and the light source positioned on the truss type structure. In a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, the truss type structure disclosed in this invention is used as a main structure of such backlight module. Compared to those of the prior art, backlight modules that utilize the truss type structure of this invention have the advantages of reduced weight and better bending strength.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2005Date of Patent: March 20, 2007Assignee: Hannstar Display CorporationInventor: Chi-Jen Huang
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Patent number: 7185995Abstract: A light dimming dot pattern is provided for an LCD in which the diameter of dots is changed in a range from approximately 0.16 mm to approximately 0.65 mm depending on the distance of the dots from a fluorescent tube (13) in such a manner that the volume of the shielded light is increased and decreased at a location close to a position overlying the fluorescent tube (13) and at a location remote from the fluorescent tube (13), respectively. In this manner, a light dimming dot pattern with a transmittance for all light rays of approximately 62% (roughly in the vicinity of 62%), higher than the transmittance for all light rays in the conventional technique not higher than 50%, is produced. Consequently, the light of uniform high luminance may be produced without raising the luminance of the fluorescent tube (13), and hence an LCD of high luminance may be realized.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2004Date of Patent: March 6, 2007Assignee: Sony CorporationInventors: Masato Hatanaka, Kazuhiro Yokota, Takashi Oku, Shinsuke Kito, Yuichiro Maruyama, Sinobu Yamada, Kouji Iida, Seiji Miyamura
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Patent number: 7163310Abstract: An under-cabinet lighting fixture includes xenon bulbs and/or halogen bulbs of less than about 35 watts contained within a housing that is devoid of any dedicated heat dissipation back vents on the back or top of the lighting unit. A top cover is connected to a wire-containing channel of the unit, with such cover being removable during wiring and mounting operations by removing screws locking the cover into place. The unit is further devoid of any dedicated reflectors and instead relies upon the reflective coating applied to the interior of the housing unit itself, which acts as a mirrored surface to reflect the bulb's illumination. A single glass lens is supported by a metal frame that runs around the periphery of such lens and the lens cover itself is connected to the housing by pivoting hinges and is snap locked into place by flexible metal/plastic elements that are configured to lock into apertures within the housing.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2004Date of Patent: January 16, 2007Assignee: American Lighting, Inc.Inventors: Theodore R. Sanborn, Frank Tsao
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Patent number: 7156537Abstract: An after-market shade for a strip light, typically containing several bare bulbs, either clear or frosted. The shade is a molded mainly one-piece translucent shade, or a translucent shade with two end caps for mounting. The shade is not attached to the fixture but to the wall, or possibly ceiling, on which the strip light is mounted. The shade is typically curved or half cylindrical. Translucent sheets with decorative patterns or colors may be mounted on the inside or outside of the shade to produce decorative effects and coordinate with room decor.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Inventor: Marie Laverne Cohrs
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Patent number: 7150117Abstract: A post assembly with illuminated information includes a hollow tube extending upwardly from a ground surface, the tube having a sidewall with textual or graphical information cut therethrough. A lighting assembly is disposed within the hollow tube, and a transparent or translucent sleeve positioned over the tube such that when the lighting assembly is activated, the textual or graphical information is visible through the transparent or translucent sleeve. The lighting assembly may include a flashing light. In the preferred embodiment the hollow tube is metal, and the transparent or translucent sleeve is constructed of plastic. The lighting assembly preferably comprises one or more fluorescent tubes. The textual or graphical information may be traffic-related, or it may concern other directives. The post preferably has a circular cross-section in the range of 2 to 10 inches, and an optional base may be provided for mounting to a ground surface.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2005Date of Patent: December 19, 2006Inventor: Frank Venegas, Jr.
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Patent number: 7147346Abstract: The invention relates to a multifunctional lighting fixture having at least one fluorescent lamp mounted inside a flat lighting fixture housing comprised of two rectangular frames. Each frame consists of preferably only one lateral wing running parallel to the fluorescent lamp, and front wings situated therebetween, whereby spacer elements and edged spacer edge connectors hold the lateral wings and front wings of both frames at a predetermined distance. The lighting fixture can be combined in many ways both during initial assembly as well as for a subsequent conversion and can be assembled in the form of a built-on lamp or suspended lamp, a vertically or horizontally mounted wall lamp, floor lamp standing lamp or cable lighting fixture without modifying the base body of the lighting fixture. In addition, different light distributing elements can be used in an exchangeable manner so that the light is both directly oriented onto a useful surface as well as deflected in an indirect and preferably colored manner.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2003Date of Patent: December 12, 2006Assignee: Grimmeisen Vertriebs GmbHInventor: Gerhard Grimmeisen
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Patent number: 7144129Abstract: A light fixture includes an extruded metal housing having open ends, and a wall defining an elongated opening extending between opposing wall edges. First and second slots extend along opposing edges of the wall to receive at least one panel. A pair of end plates is attached to the open ends of the housing. A lamp assembly is mounted within the housing for transmitting light through the elongated opening. More than one lamp assembly may be slid into the extruded housing, with spacer plates inserted between lamp assemblies to present a closed, finished look. The extruded housing may by cut to size and end caps inserted with screws to finish the fixture.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2004Date of Patent: December 5, 2006Assignee: Woodhead Industries, Inc.Inventor: Michael P. Mackin
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Patent number: 7134776Abstract: A direct backlight includes a plastic spacer pin. The spacer pin is formed of a semispherical portion and a conical frustum portion. The spacer pin is disposed such that the thicker end of the conical frustum portion is coupled to the bottom surface of the chassis, with the semispherical portion placed to face a diffuser plate. The radius of curvature of the tip of the semispherical portion is 0.3 mm to 1 mm. The diameter of the end of the conical frustum portion on the semispherical portion side is 1.1 mm to 2 mm. The ratio (L/B) is less than 5 where L is the length of the spacer pin and B is the diameter of the thicker end of the conical frustum portion.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2005Date of Patent: November 14, 2006Assignee: NEC LCD CorporationInventor: Tsutomu Kanatsu
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Patent number: 7129625Abstract: A protected lamp assembly includes a tubular lamp enclosed within a tubular protective housing. The lamp is supported by grommets or bushings of a resilient material that are retained within the housing. An end cap assembly may include the bushing for the lamp and also support the protective housing. Conductors through the end caps communicate with the lamp electrodes. In alternate embodiments the conductors may emerge from one of the end caps or the end caps may include a conductive coating with a connection to the lamp electrodes.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2003Date of Patent: October 31, 2006Assignee: BJI Energy Solutions LLCInventor: Brent Marsh
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Patent number: 7121698Abstract: A portable hanging light includes a portable housing that has a plurality of integral walls defining a plurality of partitions formed therein and an adjustably positionable lens. The light further includes a plurality of light-emitting sources housed within one partition and a plurality of control switches spaced along the housing. A plurality of hook members are secured to selected portions of the housing to assist in maintaining the light at a substantially stable position. One of the hook members is disposed along the axis and another of the hook members is resiliently connected to one of the housing walls along a rear portion thereof. At least one power cord adapter is electrically coupled to the switches for allowing a user to electrically connect the light to alternate ones of the external power sources.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2004Date of Patent: October 17, 2006Inventor: Jerry P. Johnson
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Patent number: 7121682Abstract: The present invention provides a scanning device including a lamp, an object, and a transparency (or a reflector). The present invention changes the optical path by varying the shape of tube wall of lamp, the transparency or the reflector to compensate the light in the boundary regions of the lamp. Moreover, the present invention is capable of reducing the dimension of the scanning device.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2003Date of Patent: October 17, 2006Assignee: Lite-On Technology CorporationInventor: Hsin-Tang Chien
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Patent number: 7108398Abstract: A luminaire has a plurality of reflecting lamellae between side reflectors. The lamellae each have an outer edge, an inner surface facing away from the outer edge, and a plane of symmetry through the outer edge and the inner surface. The lamellae have a resin body and a recess in the inner surface, in the plane of symmetry. The recess has a bottom surface transverse to the plane of symmetry and substantially parallel walls along said plane. The recess may widen stepwise from the bottom plane towards the inner surface. The lamellae, as compared with metal lamellae, provide a greater freedom to choose their shape and are less expensive. They nevertheless avoid the occurrence of reflections on the side reflectors, which cause unpleasant bright spots within the cut-off angle of the luminaire. A lamellae grid suitable for the luminaire has strips interconnecting, and integral with, the lamellae.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2002Date of Patent: September 19, 2006Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics, N.V.Inventor: Petrus Adrianus Josephus Holten
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Patent number: 7093955Abstract: The invention relates to a light comprising a light source or connection means for a light source, and a transparent panel which extends crosswise to a direction of light emission. An object of the invention is to improve the light in terms of glare suppression. To this end, the transparent panel is provided with a microstructure and light homogenization means are provided. The latter ensure that the brightness of the light entering the panel is approximately equal in all parts of the panel.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2003Date of Patent: August 22, 2006Assignee: Zumtobel Staff GmbHInventors: Günther Sejkora, Markus Bohle
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Patent number: 7090379Abstract: A bi-material, anti-dazzle raster for tubular light sources includes, for example, at least two side pieces and a plurality of transverse partitions that extend between the pieces. The side pieces are made of a relatively rigid and resistant material and the partitions are grouped into modular units. Each unit includes a selected number of partitions connected to one another by at least two generally parallel connection bars and to the side pieces by a snap fit. The modular units are formed of a selected plastic material using injection molding.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2003Date of Patent: August 15, 2006Assignee: Targetti Sankey S.p.A.Inventor: Paolo Targetti
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Patent number: 7077536Abstract: The double-sided edge lighting-type display sign of the present invention comprises at least two illuminating light sources: two or one display signages; and a light-directing panel. Preferably, a display sign housing accommodates and supports the other elements of the present invention. Namely, the light box housing supports at least two light sources, the display signages and the light-directing panel. The light-directing panel of the present invention is at least partially light reflective and at least partially light passing. The light directing panel directs and redirects light from the included at least two edge lighting-type light source to the included display signages. The light ultimately incident on the display signages is greater than it would normally be without the light-directing panel.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2001Date of Patent: July 18, 2006Inventor: Apostol Konomi
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Patent number: 7011427Abstract: A safety light tube has a light string within the tube and is powered by a battery within a control assembly on the tube. The control assembly has controls such as an on-off switch and a flasher unit. The tube has, at both ends, a clip hook and a hook-and-loop fastener strap, providing dual means for attaching the ends to items such as dog leashes and to parts of the body, such as an arm.Type: GrantFiled: January 2, 2004Date of Patent: March 14, 2006Inventor: Gilbert Baez
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Patent number: 7004613Abstract: A display structure. The display structure has a substrate, a panel, a lamp disposed on the panel, a lead wire connected to the lamp, and an intermediate disposed between the lead wire and the substrate. The substrate has a first sliding portion and a first positioning portion. The intermediate has a clamping portion, a second sliding portion and a second positioning portion. When the lead wire is placed in the clamping portion, the intermediate is moved to an engaging position on the substrate by sliding the second sliding portion on the first sliding portion. Thus, the second positioning portion is engaged to the first positioning portion, and the intermediate is elastically deformed so that the lead wire is wedged by the clamping portion.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2003Date of Patent: February 28, 2006Assignee: AU Optronics Corp.Inventors: Ming-Shen Martin Sun, Kuo-Chung Lee
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Patent number: 6997576Abstract: An LED lamp has a substantially planar circuit board having two opposed sides, and a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) grouped to form two LED arrays. The LEDs of one of the two LED arrays are mounted along opposite edges of one of the sides of the circuit board. The LEDs of the other LED array are mounted along opposite edges of the other side of the circuit board.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 2003Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Ledtronics, Inc.Inventors: Pervaiz Lodhie, Lei U. Vinoya
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Patent number: 6994462Abstract: There is described a light extractor (8) for a light guide lamp (1) whose useful surface, that is to say, the surface that, in use, faces the emission surface (5) of the light guide lamp (1), comprises a predetermined distribution of diffusing points (10) and a complementary distribution of reflecting points (9). The light extractor (8) allows obtaining an illumination having preselected features. There are also described methods for determining such a distribution of points so as to obtain a highly uniform illumination.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2003Date of Patent: February 7, 2006Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties CompanyInventor: Marcella M. Pesenti
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Patent number: 6984055Abstract: A modular, linear-type lighting fixture may include an elongate housing having lengthwise ends, and a pair of endplates adapted for sealing attachment to either lengthwise end of the housing, each of the endplates having respective perimeter surfaces adapted for attachment to any one of a bridge adapted for angularly-directable extension of the housing, a bridge adapted for linear extension of the housing, and an endcap. A modular lighting fixture may include first and second elongate housings each having ends, pairs of endplates for being respectively mated with the first and second ends of the first and second elongate housings, the endplates each having a rim, and a bridge adapted for joining one of the endplates of the first elongate housing with one of the endplates of the second elongate housing by sealing cooperation with the respective rims thereof. A lighting fixture may have one or more isolated raceways therein.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2004Date of Patent: January 10, 2006Assignee: Kenall Manufacturing CompanyInventors: Charles A. McCarthy, James P. Kelly
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Patent number: 6979483Abstract: A cylindrical ornamental body can protect a reflective member from being damaged and reducing production cost. The cylindrical ornamental body comprises a transparent cylindrical main body made of synthetic resin and a reflective member having a reflective face inserted into said cylindrical main body. An air layer is provided between the reflective face of the reflective member and an inner wall of the cylindrical main body. The reflective member is composed of a belt-like member having the reflective face on at least one face thereof and has a fixing portion which is fixed to the inner wall of the cylindrical main body at least along a side edge in the length direction thereof. A attaching portion may be provided integrally on part of an outer side face of the cylindrical main body along a longitudinal direction of the cylindrical main body.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2001Date of Patent: December 27, 2005Assignee: YKK CorporationInventors: Hideyuki Matsushima, Shozo Goto
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Patent number: 6976777Abstract: A simulated neon-light tube assembly (10) that is comprised of four major elements: a transparent tube (12) having a closed front end (16) and an open rear edge (18), a light-diffusing material (24), a light source (50) and a power source (60). The light-diffusing material (24) consists of stacks of thin acetate, or a like material, which are rolled and inserted into the tube (12) through the tube's open rear edge (18). The light source (50) can consist of a single LED (52) or an LED cluster. In either case, the LED(s) are located within a light-power assembly (70) that encloses the LED (52). The power source (60) for the LED can consist of an internal battery located within the assembly (70) or the assembly (70) can include a cable that is connected to an external battery. In either design, when the LED (52) illuminates, the light travels through the light emitting material (28) to cause the simulation of a neon-light.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2004Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Herold Design Group, LLCInventor: Michael A. Herold
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Patent number: 6969179Abstract: An elongated perimeter light is disclosed, which comprises a linear array of light sources (LEDs) that are electrically illuminated. The array of light sources is disposed within an elongated transparent tube, with the tube transmitting and dispersing the light from the array giving the appearance that said array of light sources is a continuous light source. The array of light sources is capable of being cut at intervals down its length to shorten it. The light sources that remain in the array continue to emit light and the tube can be cut to match the length of said array. The present invention also discloses systems for lighting structural features, with one system according to the present invention comprising a plurality of elongated perimeter lights. The perimeter lights are electrically coupled in a daisy chain with the electrical power at each of the perimeter lights being transmitted to the successive light.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2004Date of Patent: November 29, 2005Assignee: Sloanled, Inc.Inventors: Thomas C. Sloan, James J. Sloan
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Patent number: 6962425Abstract: A light fixture including a housing formed by a pan having parallel side walls terminating in mounting phalanges formed with O-ring rungs and further including retainer rails which engage the opposite side of a flexible lens to hold the lens against an O-ring in the O-ring runs to maintain a moisture resistant seal.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2003Date of Patent: November 8, 2005Assignee: Thin-Lite CorporationInventor: Shin W. Rhee
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Patent number: 6955456Abstract: To enable legal twenty-four hour national flag display, to permit night display of vehicle-mounted school and team flags, and to do either with minimal increase in night sky light pollution, I mount a light source immediately adjacent a flag and direct the light essentially directly toward the flag, rather than upwardly into the sky. Preferably, the light source is provided within a transparent portion of the flag-mounting pole, and is ideally focused directly toward the flag by a reflector which is adapted to shift positions with changes in flag positions due to directional changes of air flow across the flag.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2003Date of Patent: October 18, 2005Inventor: Karl S. Schroeder
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Patent number: 6953261Abstract: A tubular reflector for reflecting light emanating from a tubular light source. The tubular reflector may be semi-circular or elliptical in shape and positioned around the tubular light source. Furthermore, the inner reflective surface of the tubular reflector may be smooth or multi-faceted. The reflector may reflect light from the tubular light source and redirect the light to achieve a desired distribution pattern.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2000Date of Patent: October 11, 2005Assignee: North American Lighting, Inc.Inventors: Jianzhong Jiao, Matthew A. Lekson
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Patent number: 6945668Abstract: A multidirectional interior illumination lighting assembly is configured for mounting beneath a ceiling. The assembly includes a generally transparent planar acrylic panel and a hollow stringer which retains a panel edge and supports the panel in a horizontal position. The stringer carries a linear illumination source in registration with the panel edge. Additional stringers may be employed if additional edges of the panel are to be illuminated. To increase the direct and indirect illumination emanating from the panel, arrays of dots may be provided on the upper and lower faces of the panel.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2002Date of Patent: September 20, 2005Assignee: Linear Lighting Corp.Inventors: Arkady Orlov, Richard Erik Feus
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Patent number: 6945669Abstract: A method and apparatus providing improved Christmas tree lights. A strand of Christmas tree lights is encapsulated in a thin translucent film of polymer.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2003Date of Patent: September 20, 2005Inventor: Randy D. Jester
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Patent number: 6923554Abstract: A light source module for a backlight module has a shield surrounding a linear light source above a casing below a diffuser, The shield has a diffusing portion and two light guide portions substantially perpendicularly connected between the diffusing portion and the casing. The diffusing portion is disposed parallel to the linear light source and has a grooved diffusion surface facing the linear light source adapted to reflect light from the linear light source toward the light guide portions. Each light guide portion has a grooved light guide surface disposed on an outer side away from the linear light source and adapted to refract and diffuse light rays toward a reflector on the casing.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2003Date of Patent: August 2, 2005Inventor: Heng Sheng Kuo
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Patent number: 6921184Abstract: An elongated illumination device, which in one illustrative embodiment, includes an elongated member that receives an elongated light source, where the elongated member is received by an elongated carrier. Preferably, the elongated member includes a cavity for receiving the elongated light source, and further includes a slit through the elongated member and into the cavity where the elongated light source can be inserted through the slit and into the cavity. The elongated carrier may include a slot for receiving the elongated member, and in some embodiments, the slot may provide a closing force to the slit of the elongated member. A latching mechanism may also be provided to help keep the slit in a closed or substantially closed position, if desired.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2002Date of Patent: July 26, 2005Inventor: Brian N. Tufte
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Patent number: 6913372Abstract: The assembly has two lamps, such as fluorescent tubes. A cover is a co-extrusion having a baffle between the lamps and shroud portions outermost of the cover. The baffle blocks at least some of the light output of the lamps from crossing the region between the lamps. This helps reduce glare, which is further reduced by the configuration of the shrouds.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2001Date of Patent: July 5, 2005Assignee: F.W. Thorpe PlcInventors: Michael Allcock, Stuart Wilson
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Patent number: 6908205Abstract: A lighting device is described with an optical waveguide plate that has a light emission surface and a plurality of channels each with at least one substantially linear light source. The device is suitable in particular for use as a backlight in a liquid crystal display, such as an LCD picture screen, or for use as a planar light source. The channels are provided with a reflecting first layer at their upper sides facing the light emission surface. The coupling of light into the optical waveguide plate takes place through side walls of the channels.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2004Date of Patent: June 21, 2005Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.Inventor: Horst Greiner
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Patent number: 6893146Abstract: A luminaire for installing in the cover cap of an exterior rearview mirror for motor vehicles, has a luminaire housing and an electrical lamp arranged therein. The housing is entirely or partly of transparent design, such that in the installed state light exit surfaces of the housing are arranged both on the front side and on the rear side of the exterior rearview mirror. The lamp has a tubular, sealed lamp vessel, at least a portion of the lateral surface of the lamp vessel and an end face of the lamp vessel being of transparent design. Light directing elements for focusing the light emerging from the lateral surface and for deflecting the light emerging from the end face are provided such that the light emerging from the end face is directed toward a light exit surface arranged opposing the light emerging from the lateral surface.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2003Date of Patent: May 17, 2005Assignee: Patent-Treuhand-Gesellschaft für Electrische Glühlampen mbHInventors: Matthias Fiegler, Thomas Reiners
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Patent number: 6883931Abstract: An elongated illumination device for receiving an elongated light source. In one illustrative embodiment, the elongated illumination device includes an elongated member that has a cavity for receiving the elongated light source. The cavity is preferably at least partially defined by a first material that is at least partially transparent and extends from the cavity to an outer surface of the elongated member and a second material that is substantially non-transparent. In some embodiments, the elongated member includes one or more legs that are adapted to secure the elongated member to a substrate.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2002Date of Patent: April 26, 2005Inventor: Brian N. Tufte
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Patent number: 6880959Abstract: The invention is a vehicle illumination assembly that provides a vertically extending guide member connected to the bumper of a vehicle. The guide member includes a longitudinal opening and a top opening that each provide entry into the hollow interior of the guide member. The longitudinal opening encompasses a first light source that is bright enough to shine light from one end of the vehicle all the way past a second end of a vehicle. The top opening encompasses a marker light that visibly alerts a driver to the width of the vehicle. The vehicle illumination assembly of this invention may include a guide member that connects to a base member attached to a vehicle bumper. The separate guide member rotates around its longitudinal axis to direct light into a variety of directions, selectable by the driver from within the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2003Date of Patent: April 19, 2005Inventor: Timothy K. Houston
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Patent number: 6880952Abstract: A compact, energy-efficient extensible illumination source combines the reliability advantages of light emitting diodes (LEDs) with the brightness of conventional lighting. High reliability of the LEDs provides trouble-free operation over a long hour lifetime. This high-output light source can be used in direct lighting applications or for backlighting for translucent materials. The illumination source includes LED printed wire board segments that may be configured to form a light line of any length. The segments are mounted on a inner mounting base which also serves as a first stage heat sink for the LEDs. The illumination source includes a linear mirror for reflecting radiant energy away from the LEDs to produce a uniform linear illumination pattern. A window provides mechanical protection for the LEDs and may be used for diffusing or filtering light from the LEDs. An integral base in contact with the inner mounting base also serves as a heat sink and provides structural support for the illumination source.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2003Date of Patent: April 19, 2005Assignee: Wintriss Engineering CorporationInventors: Chris Kiraly, Gene Henke
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Patent number: 6866403Abstract: A lamp for use on a table or a floor comprises a base, an intermediate spacer coupled to the base and rotatable with respect thereto, a light source, and a shade disposed over and about the light source. The shade has a surface shaped to insinuate a lipstick and additionally has a partially translucent portion acting to diffuse light emanating from the lamp. The lamp operates such that rotation of the intermediate spacer causes the lamp shade to move along a linear axis. A method for adjusting the light pattern emanating from such a lamp further comprises energizing the light source, rotating the intermediate spacer, and moving the shade along the linear axis while maintaining the light source energized.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2003Date of Patent: March 15, 2005Assignee: Adesso Inc.Inventor: Amanda L. Schaak
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Patent number: 6860628Abstract: The present invention provides several embodiments of an elongate hollow tubular or solid rod lighting device including a plurality of LEDs therewith and appropriate electrical componentry, and serving as a direct replacement for a conventional fluorescent light tube in a conventional fluorescent lighting fixture. The present lighting device includes appropriate connector pins extending from each end thereof, enabling the device to be installed in a conventional fluorescent lighting fixture with no modification to the fixture. The light may include appropriate electrical componentry such as a step-down transformer to provide the required voltage for the LEDs, either integrally within the light, incorporated in an end cap thereof, or installed separately therefrom in the fixture, as desired. The light may be colored or tinted as desired by the use of LEDs providing the desired color output, and/or by installing a tinted sleeve over the tube or rod as desired.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2002Date of Patent: March 1, 2005Inventors: Jonas J. Robertson, Robert M. Currie
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Patent number: 6861789Abstract: A backlight unit is disposed beneath a display panel. The backlight unit includes an illumination means, which is used to provide a light source, and a diffuser positioned between the illumination means and the display panel, which is used to scatter the light generated by the illumination means. The diffuser, which is composed of liquid crystal particles and polymer, has a plurality of regions. The region thatis closer to the illumination means has greater scattering effect. In addition, the region with the greatest scattering effect has a shape corresponding to the illumination means.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2002Date of Patent: March 1, 2005Assignee: Chi Mei Optoelectronics CorporationInventor: Chung-Kuang Wei
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Patent number: 6857759Abstract: Disclosed is a backlight assembly and an LCD apparatus having uniform brightness and low power consumption. The backlight assembly has a plurality of lamps for providing light to the LCD panel. Each of the plurality of lamps has two or more sub-lamps connected to each other in series. The backlight assembly has a brightness control unit disposed between the sub-lamps to reduce a brightness difference.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2003Date of Patent: February 22, 2005Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tae-Jin Lee, Jong-Dae Park, Jeong-Hwan Lee, Keun-Woo Lee, Jae-Sang Lee, Yong-Seok Choi, Chang-Young Bang
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Patent number: 6848810Abstract: A light source for a flat panel display or a luminare includes a tubular enclosure having a linear slit in which is positioned a lens structure which may be a cylindrical rod lens or a plurality of ball lenses. The lens, whether a rod or ball structure, has an opaque white reflective strip or coating facing inward of the tubular enclosure, thereby defining two narrow slit openings through which the light can be projected into the lens structure and into an associated waveguide.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2003Date of Patent: February 1, 2005Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Ivan B. Steiner, Robert J. Saccomanno
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Patent number: 6834974Abstract: A lamp assembly, a backlight assembly and a LCD apparatus having the same are provided. The lamp assembly includes a lamp for emitting a light and a lamp holder for receiving one end of the lamp and for emitting a portion of the light emitted from the end of the lamp. The lamp holder has a transparent or semi-transparent material. The backlight assembly includes a light guiding plate for guiding the light emitted from the lamp and the lamp holder and for emitting the guided light and a receiving container for receiving the lamp assembly and the light guiding plate. Accordingly, the dark portion corresponding to the electrodes of the lamp may be reduced and brightness of the backlight assembly may be enhanced.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2003Date of Patent: December 28, 2004Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Sang-Duk Lee, Kyu-Seok Kim, Jin-Ho Ha
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Publication number: 20040257803Abstract: A backlit display system including a main body which is formed from a single sheet of flexible light-transmissive material. The display system can be shifted from a compact, substantially flat collapsed position to an assembled position with minimal effort by simply folding the main body along predetermined bend lines. Once the main body is assembled, hooks can be attached to the ends of the main body, and the hooks used to couple the display system to a suspended ceiling under a light source. Graphical and/or textual information on or in the main body is illuminated by light emitted from the light source for easy viewing by persons traveling under the display system.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 23, 2003Publication date: December 23, 2004Applicant: BRILLIANT IDEAS AND DESIGN, LLCInventor: David N. Kermoade
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Publication number: 20040257802Abstract: An apparatus includes a light source and a support rod comprising a cavity in which at least a part of the light source is enclosed and at least one opening through which the light source emits light. The support rod supports the light source and provides support for a load, which may include clothing disposed on hangers and/or other items that may be supported by the support rod.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 18, 2003Publication date: December 23, 2004Inventor: Jacek Helenowski
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Publication number: 20040240202Abstract: A bent fluorescent lamp for backlighting a display providing uniform illumination. A fluorescent lamp is made from a tubular glass envelope having right angles formed therein. The right angles provide improved illumination of a plane surface for backlighting a liquid crystal display. The right angles eliminate dark regions in the illuminated surface. A right-angled bend is also formed at the ends of the fluorescent lamp. An electrode is positioned sufficiently far from a central portion of the lamp so that any dark spaces in the gas discharge of the fluorescent lamp, such as the Faraday dark space associated with a cathode of a lamp are not formed within the central portion. As a result, the central portion of the fluorescent lamp has a uniform brightness or intensity providing improved illumination for backlighting a liquid crystal display. The resulting more uniform illumination with less dark regions results in a more legible display and more accurate information being displayed.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 7, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: Christian Sauska, Arpad Pirovic