Combined Patents (Class 362/253)
  • Patent number: 8132950
    Abstract: A light source device includes a xenon lamp, a rotary shutter, a main CPU for controlling drive of these components, and a sub CPU. The main CPU operates when receiving a reset cancel signal from a reset circuit. Between the sub CPU and the reset circuit, an AND circuit is provided. When the reset cancel signal from the reset circuit and a lighting completion signal indicating completion of lighting the xenon lamp are both input, the AND circuit outputs the reset cancel signal to the sub CPU. After the output of the lighting completion signal, the sub CPU operates to drive the rotary shutter. When high-frequency noise which occurs at the time of discharging the xenon lamp stops, the rotary shutter is activated and thereby generating pulses of illumination light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2012
    Assignee: Fujifilm Corporation
    Inventor: Satoshi Narita
  • Patent number: 8128250
    Abstract: The present invention is an articulating hand power tool which in one embodiment includes a head portion including a head housing configured to articulate with a main housing, a bit holder rotatably positioned within the head housing, and a lighting assembly configured to emit a first elongated beam pattern from the head portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Jon Parrinello
  • Patent number: 8113689
    Abstract: Projectile apparatus is provided employing light and sound that may be dispersed over a large area with high intensity to produce a non-lethal, visible and audible countermeasure to temporarily blind and/or disorient one or multiple potential adversaries. The apparatus is suitable for use in tactical scenarios by military, police, and special operations personnel. The apparatus is also suitable for use in training operations for military, police, and special operations personnel. For amusement or recreation, the apparatus may be used in simulated warfare or in games such as paintball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Nanohmics, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael W. Mayo, Daniel R. Mitchell, Michael K. McAleer, Byron G. Zollars, Michael G. Durrett, Keith D. Jamison
  • Publication number: 20120033427
    Abstract: A keyboard includes a housing, which includes a front surface, a rear surface, and a top surface. The top surface has a key zone. A number of keys formed on the key zone. An air inlet is defined in the rear surface. A number of air outlets are defined in the key zone. A fan is received in the housing adjacent to the air inlet. The fan is configured for forcing air to flow into the housing through the air inlet. A heating element is positioned in the housing and configured to heat up the air in the housing. A switch is configured to switch on or off the heating element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2010
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD .
    Inventor: QIANG CHEN
  • Patent number: 8109643
    Abstract: A perfume-dispensing, auto light-regulating and music-playing lamp system includes a body unit having a lamp mounted in a housing thereof, an aroma dispenser mounted in the body unit, a control panel mounted outside the body unit and having a function selector, a memory setting button and multiple display devices, and a speaker mounted in the body unit for sound/music output. By means of operating the function selector, a user can set on/off time of the lamp to simulate the lighting effect from dim to bright light of sun raise, to set alarm clock, to set on/off time of pre-recorded sound/music, and to set the aroma dispensing time of the aroma dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Inventor: Tsai-Ying Wu
  • Publication number: 20120026739
    Abstract: An electronic apparatus includes a cover unit, a touchpad unit and a contact member. The cover unit has a window through which an operation section is exposed and the window has an inwardly inclined peripheral surface as an inclined portion. The touchpad unit is arranged substantially in the window. The contact member is secured on the touchpad unit and is exposed through the window. The contact member has a joining part for the cover unit. The joining part of the contact member forms a contiguous inclined surface together with the inclined portion of the cover unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2011
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Applicant: FUJITSU LIMITED
    Inventors: Daisuke MIHARA, Motoki Yasuda, Kaigo Tanaka
  • Patent number: 8104925
    Abstract: An apparatus, method, and system of aiming devices such as antennas, free-space optical communication transmitters and lighting fixtures. One aspect of the invention mounts a substantially collimated light source on a device or lighting fixture. The direction of the substantially collimated light source is fixed in a known relationship to the aiming direction of the fixture or device. By finding the substantially collimated light source either by direct viewing, in a mirror, or with a light sensor, the aiming direction of the fixture or device can be derived by using the known the relationship between the substantially collimated light source and the aiming direction of the fixture or device. Thus, the aiming direction of the fixture or device can be derived without operating the fixture or device and can be derived even at relatively remote locations from the fixture or device. The apparatus and method can be used on one fixture or a plurality of fixtures or devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Musco Corporation
    Inventor: Myron K. Gordin
  • Patent number: 8104924
    Abstract: An LED diaphragm structure includes an insulation base, a plurality of frames, and a plurality of LED chips, wherein the insulation base includes an upper surface on which a plurality of receiving recesses are provided. The plural frames include a plurality of positive-pole frames and a negative-pole frame, where the positive-pole frames do not contact with the negative-pole frame. The plural frames and the insulation base are formed together as an integral structure. The plural LED chips are correspondingly disposed in the plural receiving recesses of the insulation base, where each LED chip has its positive-pole terminal and negative-pole terminal electrically connected with contact portions of the plural positive-pole frames and of the negative-pole frame, respectively. Accordingly, the plural frames are combined with the insulation base as an integral structure, such that the LED diaphragm structure so assembled can be lightweight and compact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Forward Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Nai-Wen Chang
  • Patent number: 8104914
    Abstract: A light device and packaging assembly having packaging containing a product. The product may be a solar powered light device. The packaging includes a switch that is operable to activate the product while the product is still within the packaging so that a user may observe operation of the product without removing the product from the packaging.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventor: Simon N. Richmond
  • Patent number: 8096695
    Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments of a light guide and corresponding ambient light sensor, computing device and backlit display for use in a portable electronic device. The various embodiments of the light guide are configured to permit ambient light to be collected efficiently and accurately over wide angles of incidence, even under low-ambient-light conditions. The efficient and accurate collection of ambient light by the various embodiments of the light guide disclosed herein may be employed to more accurately control the amount and degree of backlighting provided to a backlit display, which in turn can be used to conserve valuable battery power in a portable electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Avago Technologies ECBU IP (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.
    Inventor: Chi Boon Ong
  • Patent number: 8096678
    Abstract: A backlit display for sink and vent hood assemblies is disclosed. The assembly has a body with an interior and an exterior with a front and sides. A frame is mounted to the front of the body and defines a window. A support panel is installed in the frame and has a light. A mounting bezel is mounted to the frame in front of the window. The mounting bezel defines a pocket between the mounting bezel and the frame. The assembly also comprises a decorative panel that is mounted in the pocket between the mounting bezel and the frame in front of the window. The light backlights and illuminates the decorative panel in front of and away from the body through the window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Texas Lightsmith, Inc
    Inventors: Harold Glenn Jones, III, John W. Worsham, III
  • Publication number: 20120008323
    Abstract: An illumination system for a speaker of a vehicle is provided. A speaker cone of the speaker has an opening defined by an outer perimeter of the speaker cone. The illumination system includes a housing configured to couple over the speaker cone. A first plurality of point light sources are mounted to the housing. The first plurality of point light sources are oriented towards the speaker cone when the housing is coupled over the speaker cone. A second plurality of point light sources are mounted to the housing. The second plurality of point light sources are oriented towards the speaker cone when the housing is coupled over the speaker cone. A control switch is in electrical communication with the first and second plurality of point light sources. The control switch is configured to selectively illuminate one of the first and second plurality of point light sources.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2011
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Applicant: J&M CORPORATION
    Inventors: John J. Lazzeroni, Melinda K. Carevich, Keith E. Overby, James D. Vertz
  • Patent number: 8092305
    Abstract: A reel device for a gaming machine comprising a chassis configured to support the reel device and a reel structure attached to the chassis. The reel structure has a hub, a frame, and a spoke attached to the hub and the frame. The frame may define the periphery of the reel structure. The periphery of the reel structure may have media adapted to display a symbol to a game player. The reel may further have a board attached to the chassis and a plurality of light-emitting diodes positioned on the board, wherein the plurality of light-emitting diodes may be adapted to transmit light to at least a portion of the media. The light-emitting diodes may have a plurality of beam angles and output power levels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Atlantic City Coin & Slot Service Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Jerald C. Seelig, Lawrence M. Henshaw
  • Publication number: 20120003728
    Abstract: The invention relates to the field of algae biofuel production, in particular to methods and means of physical action on biological structures of photosynthesing microorganisms, phototrophic algae in particular. The invention can be used for obtaining biofuel from algae, as well as for the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and foodstuff industries. In the process of the method implementation radiation of cultivated solution of photosynthesizing microorganisms/phototrophical algae is carried out by the action of electromagnetic waves of a selected intensity. Stimulation of increasing photosynthesizing microorganisms/phototrophical algae biomass is obtained by the interaction of electromagnetic wave and biological cell. Irradiation of cultivated solution of photosynthesizing microorganisms/phototrophical algae is performed by electromagnetic waves originating from specified sensor mechanisms mounted about the acrylic or plastic-based stackable tubular bioreactor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2010
    Publication date: January 5, 2012
    Inventors: Mark Allen Lanoue, Janek Kaliczak
  • Patent number: 8087806
    Abstract: An electronic device includes a main body, an illuminator received within the main body, a transparent rear cover attaches to the main body, a color tape, a key and a reflective film. The main body and the rear cover cooperatively define a compartment for receiving a battery therein. The color tape attaches to the inner surface of the rear cover. The illuminator is configured for illuminating the color tape on the inner surface of the rear cover. The key is arranged on the main body and connected to the illuminator for switching on/off the illuminator. The reflective film is adhered to the rear cover. The rear cover includes a covered portion with the reflective film attached thereon and an exposed portion free of the reflective film attached thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jen-Tsorng Chang
  • Publication number: 20110317426
    Abstract: With a configuration for adhering and fixing a laser diode holder to a holding portion, sufficient supporting strength of the laser diode holder is given without unnecessarily increasing an amount of an adhesive agent and a solidification time of the adhesive agent. The adhesive agent is applied so as to couple an outer circumferential surface of the laser diode holder and a wall surface of an opening provided in a housing. Here, one or both of the outer circumferential surface of the laser diode holder and the wall surface of the opening of the housing has a recess at a portion to which the adhesive agent is applied. The recess has such a shape that an inner side of an outer edge is concaved, and the outer edge at least partially has a shape extending toward a coupling portion between the laser diode holder and the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2011
    Publication date: December 29, 2011
    Inventor: Ayumu ODA
  • Patent number: 8083373
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an LED assembly designed to supplant fluorescent tubes, comprising: an array of standardized LED modules affixed to a lightweight frame resulting in a uniform two dimensional array of LEDs casting their light directly onto a translucent sign panel or, alternatively, a light defusing panel for area lighting. When the application is to retrofit a fixture with fluorescent tubes, the assembly is provided with adapters that attach to the fluorescent tube receptacles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Inventors: James William Zimmerman, Jimmy Myer, William Raymond Sanford
  • Patent number: 8084963
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure provide methods, systems, and apparatuses related to managing a rechargeable battery in an enclosed lighting module. Other embodiments may be described and claimed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: Innovative Engineering & Product Development, Inc.
    Inventors: Lance Chandler, Jim Scalf, Thomas L. Downer, Laurence G. Teeter, Jr., Thomas T. Teeter
  • Patent number: 8083389
    Abstract: A medical examination apparatus is provided. The examination apparatus includes an examination area in which an examinee is examined using an imaging device. The examination apparatus includes at least one planar lighting device emitting homogeneous light via its light radiating surface. The lighting device includes at least one light source by which at least part of the examination area and/or of the area peripheral to the examination area can be illuminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Gerhard Helmreich, Martin Ramsauer, Michael Richenberger
  • Publication number: 20110310611
    Abstract: A backlight unit includes a first substrate including an anode electrode; and a second substrate including a cathode electrode and an electron emission element, wherein the cathode electrode includes a terminal portion and at least one electrode strip extending from the terminal portion, and the electrode strip includes an electron emission portion on which the electron emission element is mounted and a junction portion which is disposed between the terminal portion and the electron emission portion, and wherein the closer the junction portion is to the terminal portion the greater the width of the junction portion is.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2011
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yu-jeong CHO, Hun-su KIM, Bok-chun YUN
  • Publication number: 20110310610
    Abstract: A lighting system for a vehicle comprises a headlamp light source. A trim piece is mounted adjacent the light source having an inner surface illuminated by light from the light source and an outer surface visible from outside the vehicle. The trim piece comprises a light transmitting plastic body, wherein a signature image is formed on the body having a foreground region and a background region. The foreground region has a corresponding surface characteristic on the inner and outer surfaces within the foreground region different from a corresponding surface characteristic on the inner and outer surfaces within the background region so that more light from the light source is transmitted through the foreground region than through the background region. The outer surface may be fully metalized to provide a pleasing appearance under ambient light conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2010
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: David A. Brown, Arun Kumar
  • Publication number: 20110305042
    Abstract: A microcrystalline wax fragrance emitting light comprises (1) a light body with a light source creating heat and (2) a microcrystalline wax which acts as an emission media, emits fragrance, is mounted on said light body, detachable, and replaceable from said light body. The microcrystalline wax acts as a fragrance emission media which emits fragrance and is supplemented on the decorative lighting, enables the lighting to illuminate, decorate, and release fragrance continuously. The microcrystalline wax used in the present invention mainly utilizes the heat of the light source to facilitate the release of fragrance, whereby provides stronger fragrance emission. In addition, the microcrystalline wax which acts as an emission media is detachable and replaceable from the decorative lighting, allows a user to replace it freely with an emission media according to the user's favored shape and fragrance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2011
    Publication date: December 15, 2011
    Applicant: Liwei (Hong Kong) Candle Limited
    Inventor: Huang Liwei
  • Publication number: 20110302838
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method and an apparatus for nurturing phalaenopsis orchid seedlings with stalk with a high performance of land use, and comprises a nurture room having an air conditioning equipment for a temperature control; a multi-layer planting bed rack installed in the nurture room for placing the phalaenopsis orchid seedlings; and an illumination rack fixed above each planting bed, and having an artificial light source installed thereon for illuminating the phalaenopsis orchid seedlings in the planting beds. With the aforementioned arrangement, the large quantity of phalaenopsis orchid seedlings placed on each planting bed are grown under the conditions controlled at a temperature at 17° C. ˜25° C. and a light intensity of 100˜11000 Lux, so as to achieve the effects of improving the production efficiency, lowering the cost and providing a stable shipping time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2011
    Publication date: December 15, 2011
    Inventors: Yao-Huang Chen, Shyh-Shyan Wang, Doung-Liang Lin, Jung-Jui Cheng
  • Patent number: 8075160
    Abstract: A product display system is disclosed. The product display system provides various means for illuminating products displayed. External and internal illumination means are disclosed, as well as internal and external power sources. In some embodiments, the displayed product switches from an external power source to an internal power source when the product is removed, allowing the product to remain illuminated for a considerable length of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: JRZ Associates, LLC
    Inventor: James R. Zarian
  • Publication number: 20110299282
    Abstract: Embodiments of a window assembly are provided herein. In some embodiments, a window assembly for use in a substrate processing system comprising a first window at least partially transparent to light energy; a second window transparent to light energy and substantially parallel to the first window; and a separator disposed proximate the peripheral edges of the first and second windows and defining a sealed gap between the first and second windows, wherein the separator has an inlet and outlet to flow a gas through the sealed gap. In some embodiments, one or more support elements are disposed in the sealed gap to maintain a substantially uniform gap distance between the first and second windows. In some embodiments, a plurality of light adjusting elements are disposed in the gap to adjust one or more properties of light energy that passes through the light adjusting element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2011
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Applicant: APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.
    Inventor: DAVID K. CARLSON
  • Patent number: 8072346
    Abstract: Various approaches for activating a traffic control preemption system. A light bar includes a support structure and a plurality of LED modules individually mounted on the support structure. Each LED module includes a plurality of LED groups, and in at least one of the plurality of LED modules, at least one LED group in the module is an infrared (IR) LED group, and at least one LED group in the module is a visible light LED group. A controller is coupled to each module. The controller is configured to trigger an IR light pulse pattern at a first level of IR radiant power from the at least one IR LED group. The pulse pattern and first level of IR radiant power activate preemption in a traffic control preemption system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Assignee: Global Traffic Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Timothy Hall, Mark Schwartz
  • Publication number: 20110292013
    Abstract: An electronic book includes a main body and an attached flexible hose lamp.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2010
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD.
    Inventors: YU-HUA WU, MING-CHANG LEE
  • Publication number: 20110292650
    Abstract: The invention provides a carpet back lighting system comprising a carpet back lighting unit having a lighting unit front face and a unit back face, wherein the lighting unit front face comprises a light source, arranged to generate light, and an anti-slip coating. The back lighting system is suitable as back lighting at a carpet unit back side of a light transmissive carpet unit selected from the group consisting a light transmissive carpet and a light transmissive carpet tile.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2010
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventors: Maarten Marinus Johannes Wilhelmus Van Herpen, Markus Cornelius Vermeulen
  • Patent number: 8066802
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and a device for providing a zone (2) of clean air at an operation area (3) wherein an air treatment device (1) having a lighting device (25) is brought to a functional position such that the air treatment device (1) and the lighting device (25) are located above an operation area (3) and between the operation area (3) and a ceiling (32) in the operation premises (4). Air is taken into the air treatment device (1) from upper portions of the operation premises (4) and subsequently filtered in the air treatment device (1). The air is cooled in the air treatment device (1) to achieve a lower temperature than impure air (8) surrounding the zone (2) of clean air and subsequently discharged from the air treatment device (1) as a laminar air flow descending slowly downwards towards the operation area (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: Airsonett AB
    Inventors: Dan Kristensson, Jan Kristensson, PÃ¥l Svensson
  • Publication number: 20110283627
    Abstract: A smoke-barrier device for under-door gaps is taught. A basic barrier comprises a unit of expandable/compressible material covered by one end of a length of fire-resistant and smoke and gas impermeable material, and is sized to completely seal the mandated gap beneath doors in the event of a fire. Another style includes magnetic material on the other end of the length of fire-resistant, moisture and gas impermeable material to further adhere the barrier to a metal door. Intumescent material may be fixed on the central part of the length of fire-resistant, moisture and gas impermeable material. The device is sized to fit commercial and private doors spaces and is offered in a kit including tape to place about top and sides openings of a door, luminescent tape to be placed on a window in the room, and a flashlight of various styles. The fire-resistant material may also be water impermeable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2011
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Applicant: BUTTERFLY SAFETY PRODUCTS LLC
    Inventor: Alan Shaw
  • Publication number: 20110286213
    Abstract: The invention provides a light transmissive multi-layer carpet tile having a carpet tile top face and a carpet tile bottom face. The multi-layer carpet tile comprises a tufted primary backing layer, a pre-coat layer, and a tile backing. The multi-layer carpet tile comprises a light transmissive carpet tile section having a carpet tile light transmission in the range of 0.5-15% for light propagating in a direction from the tile backing to the carpet tile top face and having a wavelength in the visible range.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2010
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventors: Maarten Marinus Johannes Wilhelmus Van Herpen, Markus Cornelius Vermeulen
  • Publication number: 20110286217
    Abstract: A twist tie device has an elongated piece of shape-retaining deformable material. A cover covers the shape-retaining deformable material along the length of the elongated piece. The cover has a bond between the elongated piece and the cover. The bond between the cover and the elongated piece is along the entire interior surface of the cover. An outer cover may be bonded to the cover. The outer cover may have a gripping surface and a non-gripping surface. The gripping surface will provide more grip for the twist tie device when it is wrapped around itself, and the gripping surface will provide more grip when it is wrapped around objects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2011
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Applicant: Nite Ize, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel J. Martinson, Richard N. Case, Bowden Ormsbee
  • Patent number: 8061864
    Abstract: Furniture components, such as office furniture components, that are configured to include electronic components that transfer electrical power to peripheral electronic devices via wireless technologies, including conductive and inductive technologies. The articles of furniture may include grommet devices received within work surfaces, the grommet devices incorporating or housing the electronics of wireless power systems. The articles of furniture may also include the electronics of wireless power systems physically embedded or integrated within work surfaces in a manner in which the continuous surfaces of the work surfaces are maintained, and the work surfaces may optionally further include lighting or other indication features to indicate the locations of the electronics to a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Kimball International, Inc.
    Inventors: Keith E. Metcalf, Terry Carroll, Jay M. Henriott, Samial Keith Johnson, Donald Woods
  • Publication number: 20110280008
    Abstract: A light emitting system has a base portion and a removable portion. The base portion has a coupling for receiving the removable portion. The removable portion has a light emitter, such as a wick, candle, or light emitting diode. The base portion has at least some wax. The light emitting system is shaped to resemble an object, such as a flower or butterfly. The light emitting system is configured to float in a liquid and can further contain electrical components, such as an audio speaker, microphone, receiver, or control unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2010
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Inventor: Mehrdad Bakian
  • Publication number: 20110279064
    Abstract: An apparatus for routing data and power cables under raised floors and through other structures is disclosed herein. In one embodiment, such an apparatus includes an illuminated attachment comprising a connection mechanism to removably connect the illuminated attachment to an end of a cable. The illuminated attachment adds weight to the end of the cable to aid in tossing the end from one location to another. A corresponding method is also disclosed herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2010
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Matthew E. Brooks, David F. DeHaan
  • Patent number: 8057063
    Abstract: A solar-powered illumination device includes a solar-thermal-electric power system transforming solar power into electric energy, an illumination module electrically connecting with the solar-thermal-electric power system, a heat dissipation device dissipating heat generated by the illumination module and a heat-collection box receiving at least a part of the heat dissipation device therein. The solar-thermal-electric power system drives the illumination module to illuminate. The heat dissipated by the at least a part of the heat dissipation device is collected by the heat-collection box and transferred into the solar-thermal-electric power system. The solar-thermal-electric power system transforms the heat dissipated by the at least a part of the heat dissipation device into electric energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hsiang-Hung Chen
  • Patent number: 8057078
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an environmentally friendly beacon or light for illuminating a pole-mounted flag, banner, pennant or the like that has a luminous source located in a laterally extending cover, is mounted on top of the pole, and is capable of continuously directing an umbrella shaped illumination toward the flag, banner, pennant or the like as the wind blows the same to rotate about the flagpole. The flagpole light of the present invention is designed to be installed as a retrofit in existing flagpoles having a shaft supported knob or sphere located a short distance above a rotatable cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Inventor: Gordon Ko
  • Patent number: 8052299
    Abstract: A light source module includes a base, a supporter, and a light source fixed by the supporter. The base includes a top surface, a first side surface connected with the top surface, a second side surface connected with the top surface, a protrusion projecting from the first side surface, and a recess defined in the second side surface. The protrusion is for inserting into a recess of another light source module. The recess is configured for coupling with a protrusion of still another light source module. The supporter is mounted on the top surface of the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hou-Yao Lin
  • Patent number: 8052293
    Abstract: An illuminated sport board/skateboard emits light from both the top and bottom of the board to yield a significant quantum of light for optimal visibility and safety. A base panel is provided having an underside surface with at least one transparent segment aligned with an inlay cavity within the base's interior core. A battery powered lighting source containing a plurality of light emitting diodes or an electroluminescent lighting strip is housed within the inlay cavity. A top shell having at least one transparent display is attached to the base panel in a manner that aligns the transparent display with the LED emitted or electroluminescent lighting. Light is emitted from both the top and bottom of the board owing emission through the transparent display of the top shell and the transparent segment of the base panel. The illuminated sport board may be constructed as a skateboard, snowboard, or skis to provide safety from vehicles and other recreational participants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: Nite Glow Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Marni Markell Hurwitz
  • Patent number: 8052306
    Abstract: An electronic apparatus includes: a cover having an optically-transparent base and a shielding film for making an inside invisible; and a substrate disposed inside and covered by the cover, the substrate being mounted with a light emitting element for emitting light toward the cover and a touch sensor disposed at a position surrounding the light emitting element to detect a touch of an outer surface of the cover by a finger. The electronic apparatus further includes an icon board disposed at a position between the substrate and the cover and having a light transmitting section formed to define an outline of light emitted by the light emitting element toward the cover. The shielding film shows light emitted by the light emitting element and passing through the icon board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventors: Hideyuki Fujikawa, Hirokatsu Kato
  • Patent number: 8052321
    Abstract: Provides are a light emitting apparatus and a light unit having the same. The light emitting apparatus comprises a light emitting device comprising a light emitting element and a plurality of external leads, and a plurality of electrode pads under the light emitting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: LG Innotek Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kyong Jun Kim
  • Patent number: 8052305
    Abstract: An exemplary sound-activated light source system includes a light source device and a sound-activated controlling device. The sound-activated controlling device includes an acoustoelectric transforming member and a controlling circuit. The acoustoelectric transforming member includes electroactive polymer artificial muscle for converting an acoustic signal into an electrical signal. The controlling circuit is electrically coupled to the acoustoelectric transforming member and the light source device, and is configured for controlling at least one of brightness and color of light emitting from the light source device based on the electrical signal received from the acoustoelectric transforming member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Bor-Yuan Hsiao
  • Patent number: 8047683
    Abstract: A lighting device mounting system for a dishwasher, and an associated apparatus and method, are provided, comprising a lighting device having a first portion disposed within a dishwasher tub portion and configured to emit light therefrom. The first portion has a larger lateral area than a receiving aperture defined by a tub wall of the tub portion. The lighting device includes a second portion engaged with the first portion, and adapted to extend through the receiving aperture. The second portion includes at least one laterally-extending flange extending laterally outward therefrom. A securing device having a medial hinge portion and an engageable locking mechanism associated with free opposing ends, is configured to interact with the second portion, opposite the tub wall from the first portion, and between the at least one laterally extending flange and the tub wall, so as to secure the lighting device to the tub wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Electrolux Home Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Jerry Olesen, Gregory Van Vooren
  • Patent number: 8047672
    Abstract: The invention relates to a mosaic floor (20) consisting of layers and comprising at least one mosaic section (26) comprising illuminating elements (3) that are integrated into the mosaic floor (20) and the structure comprises at least the following layers: a mosaic layer (13) that has a plurality of individual mosaic elements (2) and a plurality of individual illuminating elements (3), said illuminating elements (3) being connected to an electric cable or to a light conductor (4), in particular glass fibres, that are introduced from below, a channel layer (14) that comprises at least one rigid plate (7) having a channel system (15) that is open to the top or to the bottom in which the electric cable or the light conductor (4) are laid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Inventor: Carmen Kotulla
  • Patent number: 8047671
    Abstract: A clamp with lamp, particularly useful for attaching to an automobile battery, or similar rechargeable battery, when charging or otherwise working with the battery, is disclosed. The clamp with lamp is configured to provide a convenient source of light during nighttime or other low-light conditions and to provide an automated means for turning the light on and off during use. The clamp with lamp includes an LED lamp disposed on the upper jaw of the clamp, a battery disposed in a battery case inside the handle and a switching mechanism. A switching mechanism is actuated when the jaws of the clamp open, thereby providing power to the LED lamp. When the clamp is engaged with the automobile battery, and when the jaws are closed, the switching mechanism turns off the LED lamp to save electricity. The clamp is small, handy, elegant, and durable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Shanghai Greatway Electric & Tools, Ltd.
    Inventors: YePing Fan, Yong Wu
  • Patent number: 8042961
    Abstract: In one embodiment, this invention discloses a device that is a lamp on the one hand, and also a speaker on the other, comprising a light-emitting element, a surface that acts as a sound-emitting element, and a base socket that can fit to an ordinary household lamp socket. The surface can be translucent and act as a lamp cover at the same time. There is also an electronic assembly in the lamp that controls both the light-emitting and sound-emitting elements, as well as communicates with an external host or other devices. In another embodiment, the lamp cover can also couple with an acoustic-wave transducer unit so that the audio lamp device becomes a light and a microphone. Various sensors can also be equipped within the audio lamp, and the results can be sent to the external host through the electronic assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Inventors: Andrew Massara, Jaron Rothkop
  • Publication number: 20110255289
    Abstract: A computing device is disclosed. The computing device includes a data capture device such as a camera. In one aspect, the data capture device may integrated with the housing of the computing device and further detachable therefrom. In another aspect, the data capture device may swivel and/or translate relative to the housing of the computing device. In another aspect, the computing device may include a positioning device for controlling the movement of the data capture device relative to the housing. In yet another aspect, the computing device may include a latch that is automatically positioned in a home position when a housing component of the computing device is positioned in first position, and is automatically positioned in a lock position when the housing component of the computing device is positioned in a closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Applicant: Apple Inc.
    Inventor: Christoph H. KRAH
  • Publication number: 20110253319
    Abstract: A shade or blind comprises a header and a photovoltaically active area. The photovoltaically active area is suspended from the header. The shade or blind further comprises a light and conductors coupling the photovoltaically active area to the light.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2011
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Inventor: John F. Schaupp
  • Patent number: 8038309
    Abstract: A stereopsis aqua-lamp photo frame assembly includes a base inside which a light-emitting element that generates heat is mounted. The base supports thereon an aqua-lamp photo frame that has front and rear surfaces respectively forming front-side and rear-side recessed chambers. One of the recessed chambers receives and holds therein a photo or a picture. The aqua-lamp photo frame forms therein a flow channel at a portion thereof corresponding to the two recessed chambers, whereby the heat generated by the light-emitting element causes a low boiling point flowable medium contained in the aqua-lamp photo frame to flow and spangles contained in the flowable medium entrain the flowing medium to pass through the flow channel, serving as embellishment of the photo or picture, thereby enhancing a stereopsis effect of the photo frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Inventor: Chin-Sheng Yang
  • Patent number: 8038325
    Abstract: An auxiliary reflecting mirror is manufactured by heating the central portion of a quartz glass tube and compressing the central portion by pushing two end portions of the quartz glass tube so that the wall thickness of the central portion thickens, accommodating the quartz glass tube after thickening the wall thickness of the central portion in a mold having inner surfaces formed to the reflecting surface shape, which is to be formed in an auxiliary reflecting mirror, and forming an expanded portion by expanding the central portion, of which the wall thickness was thickened, by introducing a gas from the two ends of the quartz glass tube, cutting the quartz glass tube in at least the central portion of the expanded portion, evaporating a reflecting film on the outer surface of the expanded portion and forming a reflecting surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: Hirotaka Yanagisawa, Kazuhiro Nishida