Laser Type Patents (Class 362/259)
-
Publication number: 20040130896Abstract: A laser flashlight employs an emitter disposed within a housing for emitting a coherent light beam having a gaussian spatial profile along an optical axis toward the exit face of the housing. An optical system disposed within the housing intermediate the emitter and the exit face of the housing includes a laser element pumped by the emitter, a frequency/wavelength converter, and a resonator, to form the coherent light into a laser beam. A beam expander receives the laser beam, disperses the laser beam, and transmits the dispersed laser beam from the light emitting end of the housing into the ambient environment.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 31, 2003Publication date: July 8, 2004Applicant: LE Systems, Inc.Inventors: David C. Brown, Richard J. Nelson, Titus A. Casazza, Jay Kehoe
-
Patent number: 6744960Abstract: A fluorescent structure comprising a plurality of quantum dots that radiate emission in response to optical pumping. These quantum dots are disposed in relation to a waveguide so as to be able to propagate this emission through the waveguide. Preferably, the fluorescent structure comprises a layer of quantum dots sandwiched between two layers, at least one layer being optically transmissive to the pump radiate and at least one of the layers being optically transmissive to emission from the quantum dots.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2001Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Teledyne Lighting and Display Products, Inc.Inventor: David G. Pelka
-
Patent number: 6735879Abstract: A self-contained line generating device uses a laser diode and a lens to project a fan-shaped beam of visible light. The lens is useful for receiving light and transmitting light in an asymmetrical planar beam. The light is useful for aligning objects in a vertical or a horizontal line. The generator also includes a substantially flat face and leveling devices for leveling and orienting the generator onto a flat surface. Retractable pins enable a user to easily mount the line generator onto a wall and align objects.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2002Date of Patent: May 18, 2004Assignee: Irwin Industrial Tool CompanyInventors: Fabrice J. Malard, Ryan K. Hopper, Daniel L. Poole, Robert N. Poole
-
Publication number: 20040090783Abstract: The invention provides a tunable light source module, which includes a semiconductor light-emitting device, a tunable Fabry-Perot device for filtering the light emitted from the semiconductor light-emitting device and a reflector. By means of the reflector, the light filtered by the Fabry-Perot device will pass through the Fabry-Perot device again and then return to the semiconductor light-emitting device.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 26, 2003Publication date: May 13, 2004Applicant: DELTA ELECTRONICS, INC.Inventors: Sean Chang, Ching-Yang Juan
-
Patent number: 6733153Abstract: A laser diode module attachment and mounting apparatus for adjustably mounting a laser diode module onto a fixed object, such as a pole, table edge, or refrigerator or the like, or an item of apparel, such as a cap, belt, pants, shirt or the like, thereby enhancing not only the practical applications for the Laser Diode, but also furthering its entertainment appeal. The laser diode module attachment and mounting apparatus allows for aiming, and hence projecting, a laser image on a desired target while the laser diode module is either attached to an item of apparel worn by the user or mounted onto an object. The apparatus generally comprises a first means for attaching a laser diode module onto an object, a second means for adjusting a laser diode module, and an attachment mechanism for securing the laser diode module onto the second adjusting means. The second adjusting means allows for rotation, and hence, aiming of the laser diode module around one rotational axis or around a plurality of rotational axes.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2002Date of Patent: May 11, 2004Assignee: Otto International, Inc.Inventor: Razgo Lee
-
Patent number: 6732668Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for indicating stitching position in a stitching machine. The apparatus includes a laser assembly which emits laser light. The laser assembly is mounted to an upper arm assembly of the stitching machine, and is operable to indicate a location of at least a portion of a pattern to be stitched using the stitching machine. The laser assembly is mounted such that the laser light is unobstructed prior to hitting fabric which is to be stitched. The stitching machine may include a user interface which can be used to activate the laser assembly. The stitching machine may also trace an outline of a pattern to be stitched while the laser assembly is activated in order to verify that the pattern does not overlap a hoop which holds the fabric.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2002Date of Patent: May 11, 2004Assignee: Melco Industries, Inc.Inventors: Manfred Zesch, Peter Kern, Michael E. Dickeson, Dean Gerald Pearson
-
Publication number: 20040076008Abstract: The present invention provides an electrostatic drive type MEMS device and a manufacturing method thereof, in which flattening the surface of a driving side electrode, improving performance, and further the improvements of the degree of freedom of designing in the manufacturing process are implemented. In addition, the present invention provides a GLV device using this MEMS device, and further a laser display using this GLV device.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 25, 2003Publication date: April 22, 2004Inventor: Koichi Ikeda
-
Patent number: 6715904Abstract: A light handle of an illuminating light is provided which produces a directed beam of light in order to precisely orient and align the illuminating light on a work area. Preferably, a laser producing light source is incorporated within the handle housing, and the directed beam of laser light projects from the distal end of the light handle. The laser light source may be battery powered, or may be powered by a solar panel mounted to the light handle; the illuminating light providing sufficient light to power the solar panel. To maintain sterility in a surgical environment, a light handle cover may be mounted to the light handle. For non-sterile applications, the light handle may simply be attached to the illuminating light without the light handle cover.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2001Date of Patent: April 6, 2004Inventor: Michael L. Naughton
-
Patent number: 6714351Abstract: Illumination apparatus includes a light source which directs a polarized source beam in a downstream direction along an optical axis and desirably focuses the beam. A polarization-altering element downstream from the source alters the polarization in a portion or portions of the source beam, so that the altered beam includes portions having different polarization directions. The altered beam passes downstream through a polarization-selective filter. The output beam from the polarization-selective filter can include either portion depending on the orientation of the filter. The arrangement can be used to provide a spot of a given size and shape at the focal location in a scanner such as a bar code scanner. The size and depth of field of the spot can be varied dynamically during operation.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2000Date of Patent: March 30, 2004Assignee: Metrologic Instruments, Inc.Inventors: Patrick A. Giordano, Thomas Amundsen, Timothy A. Good
-
Patent number: 6709141Abstract: A warning illumination system adapted to be mounted on a motor vehicle (automobile, truck, motorcycle, etc.). In a preferred embodiment, the system is designed to project a single or a pair of light beams forwardly and angularly from the front of the vehicle. As contemplated the beam(s) is projected a distance of fifty to one hundred feet in front of the vehicle and at a horizontal angle across the vehicle which may range from forty-five to sixty degrees. For maximum effectiveness, it has been determined that the beam should be projected at a vertical angle so that it intersects the road at approximately a thirty degree angle. The thus projected beam reaches forward and across the lane of traffic, making the extreme end of the beam visible to an oncoming driver approaching from a hidden curve or blind corner. The beam is visible to the oncoming driver critical seconds before the approaching vehicle is visible.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2003Date of Patent: March 23, 2004Inventor: Sebastian Sisti
-
Patent number: 6701872Abstract: An apparatus for exercising a curious animal such as a housecat comprises a laser pointer mounted on a shaft driven by a geared motor mounted on a pedestal. The rotatable shaft is preferably generally vertically disposed and the direction of the pointer is preferably obliquely downward so that activation of the motor causes the spot beam of the laser to track around the pedestal with a vector of motion to attract a cat into interaction with the spot beam. In a further specific embodiment, the laser pointer may be mounted on the head of an oscillatory air circulation fan with a pedestal. The oscillation of the spot beam, together with the air movement of the oscillatory fan, further stimulates activity in a cat while conveniently inducing convective cooling.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Inventor: Keith H. Allen
-
Publication number: 20040027828Abstract: There is provided an indication apparatus of a safety facility that can make a clear distinction between a sidewalk and a driveway by using a beam going straight on, and that can make drivers certainly recognize the existence of a pedestrian crossing when it is used in the pedestrian crossing. The indication apparatus includes a light emitting system capable of emitting a beam that goes straight on, at all times or arbitrarily; and a support capable of fixing the light emitting system vertically or in an arbitrary position.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 19, 2002Publication date: February 12, 2004Applicant: Hokutech Co., LtdInventor: Yoshihiko Awa
-
Patent number: 6688755Abstract: A laser lighting system which employs employ visible and reflective laser beam lighting sources to provide illumination of airport runways and taxiways, preferred approach and departure routes, seaplane base landing areas, marine waterways, as well as to assist in search and rescue operations. The lighting system includes handheld laser lighting units or flares particularly useful for search and which have an optic which emits a laser beam for generating a laser line which is uniformly illuminated from end to end. The handheld laser lighting units may have a pistol grip housing or a cylindrical housing, and may feature either a trigger switch, a plunger switch, or a rotary switch. The handheld laser lighting units are battery powered, and include waterproofing seals for protection from the elements.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2001Date of Patent: February 10, 2004Inventor: James C. O'Meara
-
Patent number: 6687283Abstract: A multi-beam source unit is disclosed wherein an arranged direction of light emitting points of a multi-beam laser diode relative to a horizontal scanning direction of a scanning optical system can be aligned with a predetermined standard design line.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2000Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: Ricoh Company, Ltd.Inventor: Yasuhiro Naoe
-
Patent number: 6685334Abstract: A solar powered light assembly having an integral power management system includes a means for collecting solar energy, and a plurality of energy storage devices. The device also includes a control means for selecting to charge one energy storage device and selecting to discharge one energy storage device to a predetermined level before selecting to recharge the selected discharging energy storage device. The device also includes a sensing means for sensing a predetermined charging condition and an energy charge switching means for selectively charging one of the energy storage devices. The device further includes a discharge sensing means and an energy discharge switching means for selectively discharging energy from the selected discharging energy storage device and a load switching means for delivering energy from the selected discharging energy storage device to the load for powering the solar powered device.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2002Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: G-5 ElectronicsInventors: Thomas A. Kenny, Raj Chawla, Robert Gilling, Thomas Marquardt, Ernest Pacsai, Carl Szasz
-
Publication number: 20040012962Abstract: A portable emergency light for long range detection by flight and marine search and rescue personnel which utilizes a battery-powered laser array mounted and sealed within a waterproof housing to increase the effective intensity of a specific class laser. The laser array includes a plurality of laser light generators mounted together to project substantially along a common optical axis producing a signaling light. The search and rescue light may include a rotatable head for directing the signaling lights along a 360° plane and a three-dimensional gimbal which maintains the light beams in a level horizontal position so that the signaling lights may be easily projected along the entire horizon relative to the user. Each laser light generator is within US Government safety standards for the specific class laser despite the increased power of the signal. The laser array can be used with optical alignment lenses to form a desired highly visible light pattern.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 18, 2002Publication date: January 22, 2004Inventor: Edward A. Wolf
-
Publication number: 20040008514Abstract: Vehicle measuring apparatus and method are disclosed to accurately measure height and width of a vehicle moving at a high speed. The vehicle measuring apparatus includes: a plurality of laser sensors separated from the road surface with a predetermined height and installed closely to each other corresponding to width of every roadway on the road, and receiving a reflection light of a laser light emitted onto the road from the plurality of the laser sensors and outputting a vehicle measurement signal; and a processor means electrically connected to the laser sensors and calculating height and width of the vehicle on the basis of the signal to measure the vehicle and previously stored installation information of the plurality of laser sensors.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 11, 2002Publication date: January 15, 2004Inventors: Sang-Jean Lee, In-June Song, Dae-Woon Lim, Joon-Suk Jun
-
Patent number: 6675069Abstract: An arm operation mechanism for an industrial robot includes a support, a first arm, a second arm, a link base, a parallel link and a conversion mechanism. The first arm has a base end pivotally connected to the support for rotation relative to the support. The second arm has a base end pivotally connected to a tip end of the first arm for rotation relative to the first arm. The link base is pivotally connected to the first arm for rotation relative to the first arm. The parallel link keeps a constant posture of the link base upon the rotation of the first arm. The conversion mechanism converts the rotation of the link base relative to the first arm into the rotation of the second arm relative to the link base.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2002Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: Daihen CorporationInventor: Takafumi Uratani
-
Patent number: 6672739Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method for illuminating a lithographic mask or an object in a microscope is presented, whereby the output of a laser beam homogenizer is imaged on to a field such as the object plane for lithographic application or on to the rear focal plane of an epi illuminating objective lens as a source for wide field illumination at an object plane in a microscope (for application to magnified imaging of weak phase objects).Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 1999Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: International Business Machines Corp.Inventors: Bernell Edwin Argyle, Jeffery Gregory McCord
-
Patent number: 6664954Abstract: A cap covering a light-emitting element attached to the distal end of an indicator is held by a sliding member, and is slidably attached axially along the indicator. By pressing/separating the cap against/from a coordinate input surface, a tact switch operates interlockingly with the cap to switch driving control of the light-emitting element. For example, the light-emitting element is driven by pressing the cap, and driving of the light-emitting element is stopped by separating the cap. Since the cap covers the light-emitting element, the light-emitting element can be prevented from being worn and scratched. Driving control of the light-emitting element need not be additionally switched, resulting in high operability.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 1999Date of Patent: December 16, 2003Assignee: Canon Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Yuichiro Yoshimura, Masahide Hasegawa, Kiwamu Kobayashi, Masaaki Kanashiki, Atsushi Tanaka, Katsuyuki Kobayashi
-
Patent number: 6659639Abstract: Method and Apparatus are provided for visibly outlining the energy zone to be measured by a radiometer, the method comprises providing a laser sighting device on the radiometer adapted to emit more than two laser beams against a surface whose temperature is to be measured and positioning said laser beams about the energy zone to identify said energy zone. The apparatus comprises a laser sighting device adapted to emit more than two laser beams against the surface and means to position said laser beams about the energy zone and to identify said zone. A primary laser beam is passed through or over a beam splitter or a diffraction grating and formed into a plurality of secondary beams which produce on the target surface a pattern which identifies the zone investigated with the radiometer. Laser light may be directed axially to illuminate the central area of the zone.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2002Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Omega Engineering, Inc.Inventors: Milton Bernard Hollander, William Earl McKinley
-
Publication number: 20030210548Abstract: A cross-shaped beam laser ray device comprised of a housing containing a battery, a laser diode driver circuit, a laser diode, and a convex lens, and a transverse columnar faceted lens, respectively, with a cap having a aperture through its center fastened to the front extremity of the housing. The transverse columnar faceted lens is aligned vertically to the laser rays such that after laser rays are emitted by the laser diode and converged through the convex lens, the transverse columnar faceted lens refracts them into a cross-shaped beam. that is projected through the aperture and appears as cross hairs when directed onto the surface of a targeted object.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 13, 2002Publication date: November 13, 2003Inventor: Chih-Hsiung Lin
-
Publication number: 20030202351Abstract: In order to provide a wavelength variable light source apparatus capable of easily introducing a laser light outputted from a light source slot section, into a main control section, the wavelength variable light source apparatus comprises the light source slot section for generating the laser light and the main control section into which the light source slot section is inserted and which is connected to the light source slot section. The main control section optionally varies a wavelength and an output level of the laser light which is outputted from the light source slot section. An optical connecting mechanism is installed at a connecting section between the light source slot section and the main control section. The optical connecting mechanism supplies the main control section with a part of laser light which is outputted from the light source slot section.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 21, 2003Publication date: October 30, 2003Inventor: Hironori Takai
-
Publication number: 20030189825Abstract: A decorative electronic lighting apparatus is used to illuminate the interior of a Halloween pumpkin in place of the more traditional burning candle. This apparatus is comprised of an array of multi-color light emitting diodes (LED), micro-controller, and accompanying LED control software. This software sequences the LED devices at various intensity levels, on/off duration, and color combinations so as to produce a multitude of light effects.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 3, 2002Publication date: October 9, 2003Inventors: Eric D. Tauch, John K. Tauch
-
Patent number: 6625918Abstract: A repellent laser beam device for preventing pests, such as birds, from feeding on fruits in a field. The device is mounted on a tripod and housed in a weather-protected box. It is mounted so as to be adjustable in height and angle of the device. A control unit causes a laser beam to sweep a field in vertical and horizontal patterns, frightening birds and other pests away. The laser beam is of a wavelength seen by birds or other animals and merely frightens them away rather than blinding them. The patterns and speed of the scanning device is variable. The device is powered by a rechargeable gel pack battery. The range of wavelengths of the laser light beam is preferably from about 432 nanometers to about 633 nanometers. It is known that birds' eyes are sensitive to both ultraviolet light and human-visible light.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2001Date of Patent: September 30, 2003Inventor: Tarseam S. Bhullar
-
Patent number: 6616301Abstract: A laser flashlight employs an emitter disposed within a housing for emitting a coherent light beam having a gaussian spatial profile along an optical axis toward the exit face of the housing. An optical system disposed within the housing intermediate the emitter and the exit face of the housing includes a laser element pumped by the emitter, a frequency/wavelength converter, and a resonator, to form the coherent light into a laser beam. A beam expander receives the laser beam, disperses the laser beam, and transmits the dispersed laser beam from the light emitting end of the housing into the ambient environment. The dispersion of the laser beam is such that the laser beam is safe for the human eye.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2002Date of Patent: September 9, 2003Assignee: LE Systems Inc.Inventors: David C. Brown, Richard J. Nelson, Titus A. Casazza, Jay Kehoe
-
Patent number: 6614126Abstract: A data communication apparatus comprising includes multiple white light emitting diodes or other sources of light which generate environmental lighting for a user of the data communication apparatus. The data communication apparatus also includes a data transmitting device positioned adjacent the white light emitting diodes, the data transmitting device configured to wirelessly transmit data signals to electronic devices used by the user. The data communication apparatus can also include a data receiving device for receiving wirelessly transmitted data signals from the electronic devices used by the user. The data communication device can be used, for example, in an aircraft cabin lighting system.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2001Date of Patent: September 2, 2003Assignee: Rockwell Collins, Inc.Inventor: James P. Mitchell
-
Patent number: 6609812Abstract: A dual mode visible and infrared lighthead (100) for use as a landing light or searchlight. The dual mode lighthead incorporates a modular design wherein at least one visible light source (200) and at least one infrared diode (302) are mounted into the rear sector (128) of a housing (102). Visible or infrared light is emitted out of the front sector (122) of the housing (102). Lenses (308) are installed onto the front sector (122) of housing (102) and sealed to protect the interior of the lighthead (100) from the elements.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2001Date of Patent: August 26, 2003Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Nicolo F. Machi, Michael D. Burton
-
Patent number: 6609815Abstract: A laser arrangement for use in a multi-beam laser sighting mechanism, which comprises a light source for producing at least one primary laser beam bundle and an optical beam divider with reflecting surfaces, by which at least one primary laser beam bundle can be split into at least two partial beam bundles, which extend perpendicularly to one another. The light source comprises two semiconductor lasers including light-emitting surfaces which have a longitudinal extent and a transverse extent, which are in a ratio of about 2.5:1 to about 4:1 to one another. The light-emitting surfaces of the semiconductor lasers are disposed so that the longitudinal extents of the light-emitting surfaces are rotated at an angle of 90° to one another and the primary beam bundles, which are produced by the two semiconductor lasers, can be superimposed before or at the beam divider.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2000Date of Patent: August 26, 2003Assignee: Hilti AktiengesellschaftInventors: Reinhard Waibel, Wilfried Piske, Erwin Bünter
-
Patent number: 6607287Abstract: A black-light display creates dynamic and animated imagery by employing a UV laser system (14, 16, 18) configured to scan a luminescent material (12) to produce a UV-excited static or dynamic image.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2000Date of Patent: August 19, 2003Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Alfredo M. Ayala, Jr., Eric C. Haseltine, Kathleen L. Nelson
-
Publication number: 20030147247Abstract: A beam radiator that radiates visible light beams having a predetermined wavelength onto a road surface to inform drivers of other vehicles of the existence of a self-owned vehicle or to let a driver of the self-owned vehicle confirm a traveling path thereof is disposed in a front portion of a body of the self-owned vehicle. An optical filter is disposed substantially all over a windshield in front of a driver seat. The filter is designed to have a characteristic of being more permeable to light having wavelengths close to a wavelength of visible light beams radiated from the beam radiator 24 than to light having a wavelength different from those wavelengths. In this construction, the driver is prevented from finding it difficult to visually recognize a visible light pattern resulting from visible light beams radiated from the self-owned vehicle or another vehicle owing to sunlight or the like, and visual recognizability of the visible light pattern is enhanced.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 24, 2003Publication date: August 7, 2003Applicant: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Shin Koike
-
Patent number: 6592245Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for optically marking an elongated indication path. This method is comprised of supporting an optic sieve (1) along an exposed indication path, and aligning an end (4) of the optic sieve (1) (or networks of sections of optic sieves) with a light source (2) (or light socket harnessing the collective outputs of a plurality of light sources). The optic sieve (1) in the context of the present invention is characterised by having at least one side emitting optic fiber within a flexible semi opaque holographically grooved sleeve. The present invention also relates to devices having optically marked elongated indication paths according to the method of the present invention.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 1999Date of Patent: July 15, 2003Inventors: Zamir Tribelsky, Michael Ende
-
Publication number: 20030128543Abstract: Apparatus for projecting a line of light includes a linear array of diode-lasers arranged in a diode-laser bar. An optical system focuses fast axis diverging rays from diode-lasers in the array into a fast-axis focal plane of the optical system. The optical system forms slow axis rays from the diode-lasers into bundles of parallel rays that intersect in the fast axis focal plane. The focused fast-axis rays and the intersecting bundles of parallel rays form the line of light in the fast axis focal plane. The optical system includes two arrays of cylindrical microlens surfaces. The microlens surfaces contribute to providing a uniform intensity of light along the line of light.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 7, 2002Publication date: July 10, 2003Inventor: Mathew N. Rekow
-
Patent number: 6588115Abstract: A combination laser level line and plumb line generation device that utilizes a single laser generator module to create perpendicular lines, a level line and a plumb line. In line with the laser generator module is a first optical unit that generates a vertical line. The first optical unit has a central aperture which allows a portion of non-refracted light to pass through. The non-refracted light then passes through a second optical unit, the second optical unit creating a horizontal line. With this configuration, the single laser generator module can be used to create a pair of orthogonal lines. This allows the elements to be manufactured into a simple and inexpensive combination laser level line and plumb line generation device.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2002Date of Patent: July 8, 2003Inventor: Dawei Dong
-
Publication number: 20030123254Abstract: An LED inspection lamp has a plurality of LED sources, each source for emitting electromagnetic radiation at a different peak wavelength, each different peak wavelength for causing visible fluorescence in a different leak detection dye. A lens may be associated with each LED so that radiation passing through all lenses from their associated LEDs is superimposed in a target area at a target distance from the lenses. Another LED inspection lamp has a plurality of LEDs emitting electromagnetic radiation at a peak wavelength for causing visible fluorescence in a leak detection dye, and a lens associated with each LED so that the electromagnetic radiation passing through all lenses from their associated LEDs is superimposed in a target area at a target distance from the lenses.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 31, 2001Publication date: July 3, 2003Inventors: Jack Brass, Richard J. Doran, Donald L. Klipstein, Thomas M. Lemons
-
Patent number: 6585409Abstract: A device for temperature measurement uses an optical system to image the heat radiation emanating from a measurement spot on an object of measurement onto a detector. A sighting arrangement is also provided which has a diffractive optical system by which a light intensity distribution is produced which corresponds to the position and size of the measurement spot on the object of measurement.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2001Date of Patent: July 1, 2003Assignee: Raytek CorporationInventors: Volker Schmidt, William Menchine, Hans-Jurgen Rostalski, Frank Wyrowski
-
Patent number: 6575597Abstract: A non-lethal method and devices for dispersing nuisance birds from a preselected area. Such nuisance birds disrupt many activities such as the steady flow of safely moving aircraft on runways and adjacent thereto, growing crops on farm land, playing golf and the use of the interior of large open buildings. The present method utilizes a series of bright light sources which are positioned adjacent the area from which the birds are to be dispersed. The light sources are activated to produce one or more beams of bright light which are moved in such a manner to produce a pattern of bright light in the vicinity of the birds to be dispersed. This action causes the birds to become sufficiently startled and disoriented so as to disperse these nuisance birds from the area to be cleared.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2001Date of Patent: June 10, 2003Assignee: Science & Engineering Associates, Inc.Inventors: Eric J. Cramer, Michael D. Tocci
-
Patent number: 6575596Abstract: A combination stylus and laser pointer for use in connection with a personal digital assistant (PDA), the combination having a thin slimline housing enabling the apparatus to be stored in a groove or channel located on the PDA. A laser module assembly for generating a laser beam is secured within the housing on one end thereof. The device further includes an interchangeable stylus and pen tip that is secured within the housing at the opposite end thereof.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2000Date of Patent: June 10, 2003Assignee: ComCon, Inc.Inventor: Aamir M. Butt
-
Publication number: 20030086251Abstract: A multi-mode visible and infrared lighthead (100) for use as a landing light or searchlight. The multi-mode lighthead incorporates a modular design wherein at least one visible light source (200) and at least one infrared diode (302) are mounted into the rear sector (128) of a housing (102). Visible or infrared light is emitted out of the front sector (122) of the housing (102). Lenses (308) are installed onto the front sector (122) of the housing (102) and sealed to protect the interior of the lighthead (100) from the elements. Alternatively, and in combination, an imaging module (1), and infrared laser (400) and/or a fixed-position searchlight with rangefinder and positioning capability is provided in the multi-mode lighthead(100).Type: ApplicationFiled: August 30, 2002Publication date: May 8, 2003Inventors: Scott E. Hamilton, Craig E. Giffen, Nicolo F. Machi, Scott R. Mangum, Saed M. Mubaslat, Charles A. Roudeski
-
Patent number: 6557495Abstract: An improved laser pet toy that entertains pets, especially cats. The pet toy comprises a housing containing a laser source which projects a laser beam into a mirror. In turn, the mirror forecasts the beam through a transparent window set in the housing and projects the beam onto an opaque surface. The random movement of the beam is provided by the motion of the pivoting mirrors which is driven by a motor and a plurality of arm members.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2001Date of Patent: May 6, 2003Inventor: Eileen Lisa Lorenz
-
Patent number: 6554464Abstract: A light tunnel (24) comprising a hollow light tunnel body (30) or a solid light tunnel body (80) having a central axis (A1 or A2), a reflective surface (42 or 84) facing the axis, and an output end (54 or 94) having an edge (60 or 106) with a chamfered surface (120 or 130) formed on the edge. The chamfered surface is designed to alter the reflective properties of the reflective surfaces of the light tunnel body near the output end so as to reduce or eliminate edge ringing from the light tunnel body edge. In the case of a knife-edge (340) placed at the output end of the light tunnel body, knife-edge ringing is eliminated by providing a light source (310) in the form of a laser with a large number of spatial modes (M2>30). The present invention is expected to be most useful in cases where time-averaging or other interference-eliminating means prove impossible or impractical, such as with applications requiring only one or a few high-irradiance light pulses that need to uniformly irradiate a workpiece.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2000Date of Patent: April 29, 2003Assignee: Ultratech Stepper, Inc.Inventors: Andrew M. Hawryluk, Yu Chue Fong, David G. Stites, Weijian Wang
-
Patent number: 6543907Abstract: A laser beam emitting unit includes a laser diode, a collimating lens upon which a laser beam emitted by the laser diode is incident, a base plate to which the laser diode is fixed, a lens holder which holds the collimating lens, and a holder support plate via which the lens holder is fixed to the base plate. The holder support plate includes a flat portion which faces the base plate with a gap between the flat portion and the base plate, and at least two leg portions which extend from the flat portion to the base plate in a direction substantially perpendicular to the flat portion. Each of the at least two leg portions includes a claw portion which is deformed to be fixed to the base plate, wherein the gap is maintained between the flat portion and the base plate.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2001Date of Patent: April 8, 2003Assignee: Pentax CorporationInventors: Masataka Nishiyama, Taminori Odano
-
Patent number: 6540391Abstract: An optical system is provided for use with a target site and includes a laser source producing an output beam and a reflector. A beam splitter is positioned to receive the output beam and splits the output beam into a first beam incident on the reflector and a second beam incident on at least one point of the target site. The reflector is adjustably positioned and movable along the reference optical path moveable along the reference optical path to change a length of the reference optical path.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2001Date of Patent: April 1, 2003Assignee: Iridex CorporationInventors: Paolo Lanzetta, Giorgio Dorin
-
Patent number: 6540398Abstract: Method and apparatus are provided for visibly outlining the energy zone to be measured by a radiometer. The method comprises the steps of providing a laser sighting device on the radiometer adapted to emit more than two laser beams against a surface whose temperature is to be measured and positioning said laser beams about the energy zone to outline said energy zone. The apparatus comprises a laser sighting device adapted to emit more than two laser beams against the surface and means to position said laser beams about the energy zone to outline said energy zone. The laser beams may be rotated about the periphery of the energy zone. In another embodiment, a pair of laser beams are projected on opposite sides of the energy zone. The laser beams may be further pulsed on and off in a synchronised manner so as to cause a series of intermittent lines to outline the energy zone. Such an embodiment improves the efficiency of the laser and results in brighter laser beams being projected.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2001Date of Patent: April 1, 2003Assignee: Omega Engineering, Inc.Inventors: Milton Bernard Hollander, William Earl McKinley
-
Publication number: 20030043582Abstract: A laser diode array light source includes a plurality of semiconductor diodes attached to a first substrate, with each diode having an aperture for emitting an output of light positioned on a side of the diode, the side being generally perpendicular to the first substrate. A second substrate is positioned adjacent to the first substrate and includes a plurality of reflective surfaces for redirecting each of the outputs of light. In this way, the light from the plurality of diodes can be commonly directed to provide a directional light source.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 29, 2001Publication date: March 6, 2003Applicant: Ball Semiconductor, Inc.Inventors: Kin Foong Chan, Wenhui Mei, Takashi Kanatake, Akira Ishikawa, Toshio Matsushita
-
Patent number: 6527416Abstract: A beam from a laser is light which is much more efficiently produced and which much more efficiently projects over distance than light from an incandescent source. However, because of its concentrated nature laser light has generally been of no use in viewing objects. A laser indicator which uniformly disperses a laser beam so that it may be used to view objects and particulates in the air comprises: a laser generator for generating a parallel beam; a first lens positioned in front of the laser generator having a rounded curvature, so that as the beam of light projects through the lens, the parallel beam of light is uniformly diverged; and, a housing maintaining the laser generator and the first lens in alignment. For some applications the above laser indicator further provides for a power switch and a power source being a battery. The housing carries the power switch and further comprises a cavity to house the battery.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2000Date of Patent: March 4, 2003Inventors: Richard E. Reason, Christina L. Reason
-
Patent number: 6523977Abstract: An illuminating apparatus includes a plurality of light sources that generate a plurality of primary color light components, a reflector unit for receiving the primary color light components from the light sources, and an integrator having an input side to receive the primary color light components reflected by the reflector unit.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2001Date of Patent: February 25, 2003Assignee: Prokia Technology Co., Ltd.Inventors: Fu-Ming Chuang, Shih-Ping Lee, Sheng-Hsiung Chan, Han-Wen Tsai
-
Publication number: 20030035282Abstract: A light emitting device having a lamp for producing light when supplied with electric current, and an elongated optical material having a portion disposed within the lamp and one end located outside the lamp and serving as an outlet of emitted light. The optical material may be (a) a light transmissive, fluorescent or phosphorescent adapted to emit fluorescent or phosphorescent light upon being excited by irradiation with the light of the lamp so that the fluorescent or phosphorescent light is transmitted to the outlet, (b) a rod transparent to the light of the lamp so that the light from the lamp entering the rod is transmitted to the outlet, or (c) a light transmissive, laser generating optical material adapted to emit a laser beam upon being excited with the light of the lamp so that the laser beam is transmitted to the outlet.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 20, 2000Publication date: February 20, 2003Applicant: SECRETARY OF AGENCY OF INDUSTRIAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGYInventors: Hiroaki Tao, Tetsuya Nakazato
-
Patent number: 6517221Abstract: A heat sink module consistent with the present invention includes a heat pipe for efficient heat transfer heat away from a semiconductor pump laser. The heat pipe heat sink occupies less space than a conventional heat sink, and the condenser portion of the heat pipe heat sink can be easily manufactured using an extrusion process.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2000Date of Patent: February 11, 2003Assignee: Ciena CorporationInventor: Bo Ping Xie
-
Patent number: 6502960Abstract: A light source device for use in an image forming apparatus and using a semiconductor laser is disclosed. The device needs a minimum of constituent parts and frees the individual part from dislocation in the event of assembly. A collimator lens included in the device is fixed in place by photo-curable adhesive. The device is low cost and highly accurate.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2001Date of Patent: January 7, 2003Assignee: Ricoh Company, Ltd.Inventors: Yasuhiro Naoe, Akio Yashiba, Hideyasu Yamanaka