Combined Patents (Class 362/234)
  • Patent number: 6113255
    Abstract: An illuminator system for the interior of buildings provides natural sunlight illumination. The system comprises a sunlight collector mounted on the building's roof, such as a large condenser lens or a reflector, to focus the sunlight at a focal point. A transparent end plate, at the focal point, transmits the condensed sunlight to the exterior end of a thin and flexible optical conductor, such as a polymer core fiber optic cable. The conductor extends through the roof to an exterior room and terminates in a light dispersing illuminator which illuminates the room.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Inventor: Hanoch Shalit
  • Patent number: 6082867
    Abstract: A lighting arrangement includes a three-dimensional electro-luminescent lighting element, the electro-luminescent lighting element being arranged to emit light in multiple directions without deforming the element, and including a center conductor and a coaxial outer conductor having wires that are stripped to form terminals of the lighting element, an electrical circuit connected to the terminals for supplying electrical power to the electro-luminescent lighting element at a frequency and voltage sufficient to cause the electro-luminescent lighting element to emit light, and an attachment structure for attaching the electro-luminescent lighting element to a main object in order to provide illumination for the main object over an arc angle of from 10.degree. to 360.degree..
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Inventor: Tseng-Lu Chien
  • Patent number: 6074074
    Abstract: A lighting strip is provided having a multicore conductor strip and LED elements which are arranged in a row one behind the other. The conductor strip is composed of a large number of conductor strip sections which are cut to length and are arranged in a row in the axial direction. A printed circuit board is in each case arranged between two axially adjacent conductor strip sections and is electrically conductively connected to them. Each printed circuit board is fitted with an LED element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2000
    Assignee: Happich Fahrzeug-und Industrieteile GmbH
    Inventor: Armin Marcus
  • Patent number: 6036334
    Abstract: An illuminating apparatus is formed with an ultraviolet lamp and at least one incandescent lamps that repeat a predetermined illumination pattern in which the lamps are turned on, gradually brightened within a predetermined period, gradually dimmed out within a predetermined period subsequent to a period for the maximum illumination thereof, and then turned off, to light a picture, which is supported on a frame to which the illuminating apparatus is attached, to be recognized as nighttime and daytime views with natural changes therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Assignee: Timely Elegance Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kazuo Nakano
  • Patent number: 6036331
    Abstract: A ceiling fan having illumination sources that are mounted to the fan blades is disclosed. Each fan blade has a lighting strip with a plurality of light sources along its length provided along the midline of each blade. Two sets of concentric races having rolling bodies therebetween provide the conductive connection between the rotating illumination sources and the stationary electrical power supply wires. Each set of concentric races includes an inner stationary race and an outer rotating race. The lights attached to the fan blades are connected in parallel to the outer rotating races. Separate switches control the fan and lighting functions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Inventor: Sam T. Acquisto
  • Patent number: 6030098
    Abstract: A combined modular table lamp and clock assembly includes a base adapted to be placed on a table top, a lamp unit, and a clock unit. The lamp unit includes a stand, a lamp device and a shade. The stand has a bottom section mounted removably on a top side of the base, a top section formed with a lamp base receiving groove, and a back side formed with a wire receiving groove. The lamp device includes a lamp base mounted removably in the lamp base receiving groove, a lamp bulb, an electrical plug, and an electrical wire which interconnects the lamp base and the electrical plug, and which is retained in the wire receiving groove. The shade is mounted removably on the top section of the stand to surround the lamp bulb. The clock unit includes a clock panel having a bottom end mounted removably on the top side of the base, and a front side which serves as a clock face and which is formed with an opening, and a clock hand mechanism having a housing retained in the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Inventor: I-Hwa Wang
  • Patent number: 6027224
    Abstract: A multipurpose pocket accessory includes handheld optical and mechanical implements. A laser pointer and a flashlight project separate beams from one end of an elongated housing, and have a common power supply within the housing. A set of pocketknife type tools can be extended from the other end of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Inventor: Tim Schnell
  • 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: 6017133
    Abstract: The device for recognizing the position of the terminals (A) of components (BE) whose optical unwanted structures proceed in two principal directions (X, Y) has an image transducer (BW) equipped with an objective (O); and at least one segmented ring light illumination (RB; RB1, RB2) whose rays (S; S1, S2) are incident onto the surface of the components (BE) from all sides upon exclusion of angular segments (WS) around the principal directions (X, Y). By suppressing the light directions incident perpendicular and parallel to the unwanted structures, the terminals (A) are presented with clearly higher contrast than the other structures of the components (BE). The device is particularly utilized in components vision systems of automatic equipping units. It enables a reliably recognition of the position of the spherical terminals even given flip chips, bare chips and ball grid arrays and, thus, an exact optoelectronic centering of these components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2000
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Hans Horst Grasmuller, Gunther Wittmann
  • Patent number: 6000807
    Abstract: A wall mounted cover plate conceals an electrical circuit capable of sensing the field provided by a covered switch or electrical socket circuit. When power is lost at the wall circuit the electrical circuit senses the loss of power and activates one or more LEDs to provide emergency illumination. The electrical circuit is self contained and does not require stand-by energy so that the batteries are long lasting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Inventor: Gregory B. Moreland
  • Patent number: 5980057
    Abstract: An integrated light-speaker assembly suitable for connection into conventional electrical sockets. The combination includes an FM wireless receiver operating within a local area wireless transmission system. The speaker is mounted behind the light bulb, and when mounted into a conventional electrical socket, the assembly provides both sound and light, with the sound being provided by the local area wireless FM transmission system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Assignee: Recoton Corporation
    Inventor: Cary Christie
  • Patent number: 5961200
    Abstract: A lamp for use in connection with an object storage system and intended for being connected to a current supply, the lamp including a lamp housing with at least one light source and a reflector member being at least partially included in a longitudinal extension of the lamp housing, the extension including a light opening. The at least one light source and the reflector member being so disposed as to illuminate, through the light opening, the exposed back sides of objects when stored in the storage system. An external width and height of the lamp housing is proportioned corresponding to the dimensions of such objects as are intended for being stored in the object storage system. Thereby a separate, removable lamp of the insertion type is objected. An illumination system including at least two such lamps, an object storage system as combined with at least one such lamp, and the use of the lamp for illuminating an object storage system is disclosed, too.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Inventor: Mogens Friis
  • Patent number: 5947583
    Abstract: An illuminating cue stick rack made up of a rack frame and a lighting system built into or attached onto the rack frame. The lighting system is electrically connectable to a power supply such as a wall outlet and includes provision for selective illumination by a customer to request customer assistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Inventor: Guillermo Castano
  • Patent number: 5947584
    Abstract: An illuminated trash receptacle having lighting devices that provide uniform illumination of an advertisement displayed on the side walls of the receptacle without occupying much more space within the side walls of the receptacle than the advertisement. The lighting device has a light emitting surface having a surface area corresponding to the advertising area of the advertisement. Preferably, the light emitting surface contacts the advertisement. The lighting device may be an electroluminescent flat lamp, or a substantially planar light guide that emits light over the entire surface area of the visible portion of the advertisement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Inventors: Caesar A. Passanante, Stephen J. Smith
  • Patent number: 5931557
    Abstract: A microwave powered ultraviolet and/or visible light producing system comprising a housing defining a microwave cavity having a volume Vo, an inlet and exhaust ports which communicate with the microwave cavity. Disposed within the microwave cavity and uniformly distributed therewithin are a number N of ultraviolet and/or visible light producing lamps, each of which has an inner diameter D, a length L, and a nominal power p. Communicating with the microwave cavity is a microwave magnetron generator having a microwave power P and producing microwaves having a wavelength .lambda.. Electrically connected to the generator is a power supply. The optimal operating condition for the system to maximize the ultraviolet and/or visible light output and longevity of the lamps and minimize system power consumption is governed by the relationships:Vo.gtoreq.V min 1 wherein V min 1=8 .pi..lambda..sup.3 /3;Vo.gtoreq.V min 2 wherein V min 2=.pi.(D+1).sup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1999
    Inventor: Vladimir A. Danilychev
  • Patent number: 5924784
    Abstract: Electronic lighting devices that simulate a realistic flame are disclosed. The preferred embodiment has a plurality of lighting elements in a plurality of colors which are modulated in intensity by a control circuit with a stored program. The control program includes stored amplitude waveforms for the generation of a realistic flame simulation. The program further contains random elements to keep the flame constantly changing. The control circuit has built in power management functions that can control the mean intensity of the simulated flame based on some power management budget with the ability to measure the charge/discharge duration of the power source, when used with a rechargeable power source. The currents to the individual lighting elements are selectable from a set of discrete quantization values. Tables of amplitude modulated time waveforms are stored in the microprocessor memory, from which the real time control data streams for the individual lighting elements are synthesized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1999
    Inventors: Alex Chliwnyj, Tanya D. Chliwnyj
  • Patent number: 5921653
    Abstract: An illumination arrangement for a small moving object of the type which includes a main object arranged to be moved when an outside force is applied to the object and a moving base arranged to permit the main object to move when the outside force is applied to the main object by overcoming a resistance to movement of the main object which would otherwise be present, includes an illumination arrangement mounted between the moving base and the main object. The moving object can for example take the form of a skate, skate board, or a toy such as a toy car.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Inventor: Tseng-Lu Chien
  • Patent number: 5913596
    Abstract: A multifunctional screwdriver is composed of a handle, a shank, a lighting fixture base, and a tip retaining seat. The handle is provided in the rear end thereof with a battery seat for mounting batteries and is fastened in the front end thereof with the shank which is provided therein with an expandable rod having a magnet fastened with one end thereof and a ratchet wheel fastened with another end thereof for controlling the rotational direction of the shank. The lighting fixture base is fastened with the front end of the handle such that the lighting fixture base is connected with the battery seat. The tip retaining seat is provided with a plurality of slots for holding a plurality of tips of various specification. The multifunctional screwdriver can be used as a screwdriver, a lighting device, and a handy device for picking up metal pieces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1999
    Inventor: Wan-Chang Lin
  • Patent number: 5877852
    Abstract: The invention concerned is a money tray with casing whose lid contains an illuminated area, illuminable by at least one light medium which is located within the casing, and which has at one end of the casing a testing device for banknotes and/or credit cards. This design firstly offers the advantage of eye-catching advertising. At the same time it is possible to test the banknotes placed on it for their authenticity. The light sources required for this can have a shared electricity supply, so that only one electric cable is necessary and space on the counter is not unnecessarily restricted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1999
    Assignee: MGC Manfred Gaus Creative Medien Marketing GmbH
    Inventors: Peter Schilbach, Britta Stolle
  • Patent number: 5873647
    Abstract: A lamp for a nozzle includes an annular housing having an outer peripheral wall and an inner peripheral wall, the inner peripheral wall defining a central cavity extending through the housing. The central cavity lies along a central axis and enables the housing to be mounted circumferentially around the nozzle. A securing device is connected to the housing for securing the housing to the nozzle. A lighting unit is positioned within the housing and encircles the central cavity. An annular shaped first lens is positioned over the lighting unit. A retaining member secures and seals the first lens to the outer and inner peripheral walls of the housing for hermetically sealing the lighting unit within the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1999
    Inventors: Rodney Kurtz, Gilbert B. Guerin
  • Patent number: 5868487
    Abstract: A computer keyboard light comprises, in a first embodiment, at least one small upright lamp unit mounted to a flat plate that is secured to the underside of the computer keyboard or PC monitor. The lamp arms are telescopeable and are rotatable by rachet connections to allow for adjustment of the lights. The arms could also be formed of an internal structure that allows them to be twisted or adjusted into different shapes and positions. In another embodiment, the computer keyboard light further comprises a small lamp unit mounted to a small rectangular plate that is adhered to the side of the PC monitor in order to illuminate either the keyboard, the monitor screen or a copy holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1999
    Assignee: Catalina Lighting, Inc.
    Inventors: Kent S. Polley, Robert M. Fontaine
  • Patent number: 5855426
    Abstract: A novel safety device comprises a flashlight and a pyrotechnic signalling device launcher in a single unit. The device comprises an elongated body comprising two compartments; a first compartment is suitable for carrying batteries for powering the flashlight, while a second compartment is suitable for carrying pyrotechnic signalling means. In a preferred embodiment, the device further comprises a water resistant flashlight switch and a firing mechanism which includes an internal cocking mechanism which is cocked by rotating one segment of the device with respect to a second segment of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1999
    Inventor: Robert Lee Burns
  • Patent number: 5836675
    Abstract: A closet organizer adapted to be secured to a closet rod or rack having a switch actuated rotatable belt. A plurality of said hooks are mounted on the belt for holding ties or belts. A translucent lighting panel extends about substantially the entire outer periphery of the organizer. Lights are disposed in the organizer for illuminating the panel and providing light below the switch when the belt is rotated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Assignee: Barbara D. Arner
    Inventor: Cooper C. Woodring
  • Patent number: 5820243
    Abstract: The present invention provides an air suspended luminary that includes balloons and luminaries. By means of floating balloons, the present invention is to suspend an end of a string of luminaries on the bottom of the balloon, the another end of the string of luminary is fixed on the ground to control the suspending height. Said balloon can connect with the string of luminaries through a hollow transparent connecting object. The present invention can be combined with many balloons and strings of the luminaries to create varied shapes and used in varied field especially in an expense of open field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Inventor: Chih-Chen Chang
  • Patent number: 5816696
    Abstract: A display hook includes a light at its free end to call attention to the merchandise attached to the hook. The hook includes a base for attachment to a perforated board, a shaft attached to the base, a light located near the free end of the shaft and an energy source for providing power to the light. A pair of studs in the base are selectively engageable in the apertures of the board. Batteries, or an electrical power source, located near the base or at the end of the hook or remote from the hook provide power to the light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Inventor: Edward J. Beisler
  • Patent number: 5813748
    Abstract: A transaction tray comprises a tray portion and a hinged lid portion. The tray portion has a transaction compartment and a storage compartment, and lighting means associated with the transaction compartment. The lid portion has a flat outer surface and a parallel inner surface. A first transparent window is provided in the outer surface of the lid and a second transparent window in the inner surface. A first translucent advertising substrate is displayed in the first window and a second translucent advertising substrate is displayed in the second window. A lighting means is provided between the first and second translucent substrates whereby the transaction tray will be lit by the lighting means and the translucent advertising substrates will be displayed and backlit from both sides of the hinged lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1998
    Inventor: Peter Nicholas Maxymych
  • Patent number: 5810466
    Abstract: A walking cane includes an elongated leg with a foot at a lower end and a transversely extending handle at an upper end for manipulating the cane and directionally controlling a flashlight in the handle to illuminate a travel path forwardly of the cane. An elongated, gas filled tube light is provided in the leg of the cane between the foot and handle for general illumination around the area. Each light source is selectively controlled and powered by batteries self-contained in the handle body of the walking cane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1998
    Inventor: Michael D. Young
  • Patent number: 5810463
    Abstract: An illumination device for an image input device includes a cylindrical light guiding unit, a board having a plurality of light emitting diode elements, a connection member connecting the light guiding unit with the board and a terminal reflection member formed at one end of the light guiding unit. A surface of the light guiding unit has a scattering reflection member extending linearly along the axial direction of the light guiding unit. A cylindrical reflection member is spaced around the light guiding unit and a linear space is provided in the reflection member along the axial direction of the guiding unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1998
    Assignee: Nikon Corporation
    Inventors: Atsushi Kawahara, Osamu Inoue
  • Patent number: 5806959
    Abstract: A roller for a roller skate is made of a light transmitting material. The roller includes an electrical circuit for emitting a light from within the roller. The entire roller is thereby illuminated by the circuit and appears, itself, to be a light source. A flat peripheral edge of the roller is particularly brightly illuminated. The light source or the roller, or both may be colored to produce a color or color combination of choice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Inventors: Marvin Adams, Scott Ganaja
  • Patent number: 5803586
    Abstract: An illuminated tool caddy (10) is provided for the carrying of tools and parts, and for illumination of work detail related thereto. The primary components of the illuminated tool caddy (10) are a tool carrier (12) and a lamp (14). The lamp (14) is situated within the tool carrier (12) and is of a height such that a bulb housing (44) extends above the side walls (18) of the tool carrier (12). Within the bulb housing (44) are five individual lighting compartments (48), each of which contains a light bulb (54). Reflector facets (56) within each lighting compartment (48) assist in reflecting and directing the light from the light bulbs (54) to give the lamp (14) a hands-free, multidirectional lighting ability. The lamp (14) is capable of simultaneously casting light in any direction, including not only to any side and upwardly, but to the ground and into the interior of the tool carrier (12) as well. The lamp (14) is also removable from the tool carrier for hand-held applications where that is desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Inventors: Salvador A. Velez, Filiberto Rodriguez, Carlos A. Ruiz
  • Patent number: 5797673
    Abstract: An emergency lighting fixture combining the functions of an illuminated sign such as an exit sign and an emergency lighting unit integrated into one housing onto which one or more emergency light can be mounted at predetermined locations of the housing, the combined emergency lighting structure providing both exit location information and ambient emergency lighting in a single cooperatively operating device. The present device replaces bulky prior combinations of discrete exit signs and emergency lighting units which have been assembled together essentially as individual devices without integration into a single housing or without substantial integration of operational features, the housing of the present device being only slightly larger than standard exit signage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1998
    Assignee: NSI Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Campbell Logan, Andrew Edward Masters, Edwin Lewis Hull
  • Patent number: 5795051
    Abstract: A lighting system for use with trucks having an open bed or one covered by a shell include a U-shaped channel support member on which is mounted quartz halogen lamps. The support member is mounted on the side walls of the truck and across the front wall of the bed such that the lights are below the top surface of the side walls. In this way the lights are positioned to illuminate the open or covered bed while not shining above the top of the side walls or closed tail gate. The on/off control of the lights is by a switch located in the cab of the truck. The lighting system is easy to install, attractive in appearance and operated to protect the front wall of the bed from damage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Inventor: Norman D. Galanski
  • Patent number: 5779344
    Abstract: A light emitting roller for roller skates, including a roller body having a center axle hole for mounting on a wheel axle, an annular groove around said center axle hole at an outer side, a battery chamber and two opposite through holes at said annular groove; an annular circuit board mounted within the annular groove on the roller, having a plurality of light emitting elements controlled to emit light through the through holes on the roller body, an automatic switch, an opening, two metal contact plates at two opposite sides of the opening, and a battery cell connected between the metal contact plates and mounted within the battery chamber on the roller to provide electric power supply to the light emitting elements through the automatic switch; and an annular cap mounted within the annular groove on the roller to hold down the annular.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1998
    Inventor: Shen-Ko Tseng
  • Patent number: 5765934
    Abstract: In a light source apparatus for use with a projection type display, at least one light source is provided for emitting light. A reflector is provided correspondingly to the light source in order to gather the light emitted from the light source into a small area to form a converged luminous flux. A light guide has at least one light input section into which the luminous flux is coupled. The light input section is provided correspondingly to the light source. The light guide combines the luminous flux received through the light input sections into a single beam of luminous flux. The light-guide has at least one light output section from which said luminous flux is output. The light source apparatus may also include light-refracting element provided between the reflector and the light-guide. The light-refracting element receives the converged luminous flux from the reflector to refract the converged luminous flux so as to couple the converged luminous flux, as a uniform luminous flux, into the light-guide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Shinji Okamori, Akira Daijogo, Hiroshi Kida, Shinsuke Shikama, Eiichi Toide
  • Patent number: 5765936
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a portable neon lighting system (10) connectable to a vehicle. The portable neon lighting system (10) comprises a first plastic encased neon light (12A) which comprises a first plastic encased neon light electrical connection (12AA), at least one first plastic encased neon light first strap (12ABA), and at least one first plastic encased neon light second strap (12ABB). The portable neon lighting system (10) further comprises a rechargeable battery/transformer (14) electrically connected to the first plastic encased neon light electrical connection (12AA). The rechargeable battery/transformer (14) comprises a rechargeable battery/transformer ON/OFF switch (14A) electrically connected between the battery and the transformer, the rechargeable battery/transformer (14) is connectable to a frame member by a rechargeable battery/transformer first strap (14BA) and a rechargeable battery/transformer second strap (14BB).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Inventors: Judy T. Walton, Clark Todd Driver
  • Patent number: 5755508
    Abstract: A new Lighted Display Board which provides an illuminated surface on which figures and other forms of ornaments may be placed upon. The inventive device includes a display board, a plurality of apertures in the board, a plurality of aperture covers, a plurality of sockets, a plurality of socket fixtures, a corresponding number of light bulbs, a plurality of electric wires, and a male plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1998
    Inventor: Richard F. Wheaton
  • Patent number: 5746499
    Abstract: A device for use in footwear for producing pulsed light can be disposed in the sole of a shoe. The device includes a circuit having a switch responsive to pressure from the wearer's foot that activates a lighting circuit for a predetermined period of time or until the switch is operated again. The lighting circuit produces a pulsed light visible exteriorly of the sole of the shoe. The circuit can be controlled to operate either when the wearer's foot is brought into contact with, or when it is removed from, the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1998
    Assignee: L.A. Gear, Inc.
    Inventors: William R. Ratcliffe, Don C. Lawrence
  • Patent number: 5727866
    Abstract: An illuminated control panel typically for an audio device used in an automobile. The control panel includes a front panel made of a light conducting material through which push buttons and switches extend. A light conducting diffuser extends over a substantial portion of the rear surface of the front panel. The light conducting diffuser contains a plurality of sources of light which produce a generally uniform distribution of light throughout the light conducting diffuser. The illuminated light conducting diffuser back lights the entire area of the front panel, thereby increasing the general illumination of the control panel and facilitating the location and identity of the push buttons and switches. The front panel is preferably colored to improve its general appeal and appearance. In an alternative embodiment, the control panel includes one or more trim plates that are attachable to the front panel and may be used and exchanged at the choice of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1998
    Assignee: Kraco Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Bradley A. Kraines, James R. Kingsbury
  • Patent number: 5722754
    Abstract: Auxiliary lighting for a computer monitor display screen that consists of simulated natural daylight, as provided by commercially available full spectrum bulbs. Using to advantage the usual sitting position of a user which places the upper edge of the display screen at his/her eye level, the full spectrum light source is mounted on the display screen upper edge to maximize the impingement on the user's eyes of full spectrum light to ease the eye strain caused by partial full spectrum light of computer-generated illumination on the display screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1998
    Inventor: Eli Langner
  • Patent number: 5718499
    Abstract: A new Roller Blade Wheel Lighting System for increasing the visibility of the user when roller blading in darkness, without requiring an external power source. The inventive device includes a transparent cylindrical plastic rim rotatably secured to a conventional blade support member of a roller blade, an illuminating means positioned within the transparent cylindrical plastic rim, and a hard rubber rim secured around the transparent cylindrical plastic rim juxtaposed to the blading surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 17, 1998
    Inventor: Frank De Caro
  • Patent number: 5716120
    Abstract: A protective elbow or knee pad with a warning lamp signal device includes a tubular pad, an upper lid and a warning lamp signal device. The upper lid is fixed on the tubular pad, containing the lamp signal device deposited in a hollow space defined by angle posts fixed on an inner surface of the upper lid, which has holes for for plural lamps and a switch to fit therein so as to be seen from outside when the lamps are lit and flash by pressing the switch with a pointed thing, and forming a warning signal during the night.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 10, 1998
    Inventor: Tien-Mou Hung
  • Patent number: 5692965
    Abstract: A golf swing training device includes a golf club including a head coupled to a shaft. At least one laser device detachably coupled to the shaft of the golf club and produces at least one laser beam. A power source is coupled to the laser device. An attachment mechanism detachably secures the laser device to the golf club shaft in a manner such that the laser beam provides a feedback signal to the golfer that is indicative of a position and a motion of the head during the top of a backswing of the golf club by the golfer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1997
    Inventors: William L. Nighan, Jr., Steven Arkley
  • Patent number: 5688039
    Abstract: A safety helmet has a battery operated, flashing rear light for wide angle visibility and a battery operated front light with a narrow projected forward beam to light the path being traversed. The front light pivots about a horizontal axis with manual control to adjust the attitude or inclination of the beam to enhance its utility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1997
    Inventor: Lyndon F. Johnson
  • Patent number: 5688038
    Abstract: A protective device made up of a padding material is arranged to include an EL strip and power pack to provide illumination for the device in addition to cushioning of impacts. The device can be worn as a calf, knee, or elbow pad, in which case a textile backpad and partially transparent or cutout relatively rigid front plastic cover are used, or the device can be wrapped around the metal parts of a bicycle or other vehicle, in which case the plastic cover is replaced by a partially transparent or cutout soft cover sheet. The inclusion of an EL light offers an eye-catching warning to motorists of children playing in the dark by the side of the road.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1997
    Inventor: Tseng Lu Chien
  • Patent number: 5683168
    Abstract: An improved spray canister light comprising a lens cap threadably secured to a light head cap, the light head cap threadably secured to a battery body containing batteries therein. The spray canister light further comprising a canister body threadably secured to the battery body and environmentally sealed therefrom, the canister body including a replaceable canister and a depressible spray nozzle therein. An on/off push action switch contained within the body may be depressed so as to activate the light whereas the depressible spray nozzle within the canister portion may be depressed so as to discharge from the spray canister light the contents of the canister. In the preferred embodiment, the on/off switch and the depressible spray nozzle are recessed with respect to an outer surface of the device thereby ensuring the switch and the nozzle may not inadvertently be activated or broken.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 4, 1997
    Inventors: Willard H. Teig, Randy S. Teig
  • Patent number: 5676250
    Abstract: A system for storing a light string and removably coupling the light string to a building. The inventive device includes a hollow tube about which a light string can be wound for storage. Hook and loop fasteners secure the light string to an exterior of the tube and permit a removable coupling of the light string to a building during a holiday season.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1997
    Inventor: Darryl Kurt Walters
  • Patent number: 5675931
    Abstract: A plant tender delivers light to the foliage and water and nutrients to the roots of a plant growing in a container and embedded in an anchoring medium contained in the container. The plant tender has an armature positioned adjacent to the plant and formed with a conduit for electrical power. A reservoir is provided in physical contact with the container, armature or anchoring medium. The reservoir supplies water and nutrients to the roots. An artificial light source is supported by the armature and irradiates the foliage. A controller establishes a duty cycle of the light source and controls both the duty cycle and the delivery of water and nutrients. In certain embodiments, the positions of the plants and lights can be adjusted, and fish are grown in symbiotic relation to the plants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1997
    Inventor: Kurt J. Wasserman
  • Patent number: 5669702
    Abstract: An inflatable article includes a rounded wall that encloses a first space. An illuminating device is mounted inside the rounded wall and occupies a portion of the first space. The device includes a base bonded sealingly and integrally to the rounded wall. The base confines a second space hermetically sealed from a remaining portion of the first space, and has a part exposed from the rounded wall and an opening for access to the second space. A light emitting element is disposed interiorly of the opening. A power source has a negative electrode proximate to the opening and a positive electrode connected to a first terminal of the light emitting element. A conductive member extends axially and outwardly of the power source and is connected to a second terminal of the light emitting element. A conductive cap closes the opening and is movable between a conducting position and a non-conducting position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1997
    Inventor: Wen-Ching Wang
  • Patent number: 5669698
    Abstract: A modular rearview mirror assembly for vehicles incorporates one or more integrated subassembly modules or carrier members to which are connected separate electrical components such as lamps, reflectors, switches, plug receptacles and the like to simplify mirror assembly and provide integral support, electrical connections, and an electrical distribution network for the mirror assembly having added, electrically operated features. The carrier member includes a circuit member secured to and/or at least partially encased or encapsulated within a support body such that electrical connections extend therefrom. An improved mirror assembly method using such a carrier member is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1997
    Inventors: Roger L. Veldman, Brent J. Bos
  • Patent number: 5669694
    Abstract: Two embodiments for an illumination system are described as a lighting system for computer keyboards and copy text holders and any related printed materials. The first embodiment, a novel keyboard lighting fixture, which is the principal device and includes a base for securing to the underside of keyboards or directly onto a work station, fixed or movable, thereby stabilizing the light fixture to allow pivoting of the housing. The pivoting of the housing to a desired operational position energizes the system which is powered by a plug-in transformer. The second embodiment, the copy text illuminator, is half the size of the keyboard light and is powered by a cord that connects the two light fixtures, making it an auxiliary fixture, to the keyboard light. The cord allows total flexibility and the employment of Velcro pads on each end together with a Velcro strap, enables placement of this light fixture on horizontal or vertical work surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1997
    Inventor: Ronald N. Morton, Sr.