Fluorescent Type Patents (Class 362/260)
  • Patent number: 5171085
    Abstract: The lighting fixture recessible into an opening formed in a ceiling and including a housing defining a recessible pan mount for mounting electrical lamp sockets. Such housing then projects downwardly through the opening and mounts on the opposite ends thereof respective end caps. The end caps project downwardly from the opening and flare laterally outwardly to the opposed sides to form wings which mount stub pins in longitudinally axial alignment. Such pins are adapted for being engaged by grooves formed in the opposite lateral sides of a channel shaped diffuser such that the diffuser may be detachably mounted from the end caps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1992
    Assignee: Thin-Lite Corporation
    Inventor: Milenko Jaksich
  • Patent number: 5169227
    Abstract: There is provided a fluorescent lamp having a fluorescent tube and a connecting element for connection to a source of current. The connecting element includes a mains plug having a contact plugs electrically connected to the fluorescent tube and projecting on one side of the mains plug. The area of the connecting element facing the contact plugs is in the shape of a housing for the fluorescent tube having an oblong shape with the mains plug located on the longitudinal side thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1992
    Assignee: Korte-Licht Inh. Heinrich Korte
    Inventors: Heinrich Korte, Theo Spix
  • Patent number: 5167445
    Abstract: A fluorescent illuminating device that mounts on a vertical side portion of an aquarium having a water resistant, rigid, vinyl housing with a vinyl woodgrain laminate 20 adhering to the back surface of the housing. The fixture can be mounted to any aquarium vertical side portion with a width of 12" or more. The fixture is mounted utilizing L-shaped securing hangers 12 that wedge between aquarium top frame element 10 and aquarium transparent surface 34. In addition, the securing hangers 12 wedge between channels 14A and rubber strips 14B positioned on the top surface of the housing. The L-shaped adhering braces 30A attach to the aquarium transparent surface 34 and attach to the bottom surface of the housing with screws 30C. This mounting configuration allows for the removal of the device by removing the screws 30C and pulling fixture out, perpendicular to aquarium transparent surface 34. The interior of the fixture has a reflecting surface 28C that primarily directs light diagonally into the aquarium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1992
    Inventors: Steven R. Linnenkamp, Daren K. Daniels
  • Patent number: 5150965
    Abstract: A radiation-emitting panel such as for back lighting a display has three transparent glass plates sealed together around their edges to form two gas-discharge volumes. The plates are supported within their edges by two identical arrays of pillars formed integrally from the plates. The lower surface of the lower plate is profiled with inverted frusto-pyramids and coated with a reflecting layer. Electrodes normally cause discharge within the upper volume, and the emission of light. Electrodes can be used to excite the lower volume, such as on failure of the upper volume, the reflector acting to reflect light preferentially into the pillars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1992
    Assignee: Smiths Industries Public Limited Company
    Inventor: Neil A. Fox
  • Patent number: 5149184
    Abstract: A combined work station and phototherapy unit in which the fixture containing the light source is mounted on a vertical support to be placed on the base of the open area for work to be performed, the fixture being at an angle, preferably in the range of 30.degree.-60.degree., so that the user will not be staring directly into the light from the fixture. There will be light both impringing upon the eyes of the user for photobiological effect and also light will be directed to the work area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1992
    Inventors: Philip Hughes, Michael Terman
  • Patent number: 5147127
    Abstract: A liquid crystal display apparatus comprises a liquid crystal display panel, a fluorescent lamp for illuminating the liquid crystal display panel, the fluorescent lamp being provided with a glass bulb in which at least a pair of electrodes are disposed and mercury and rare gas fill, the glass bulb having an inner surface on which a fluorescent material is applied, the fluorescent lamp being further provided with a pair of receiving terminals, a lighting unit for lighting the fluorescent lamp, the lighting unit being electrically connected to a pair of supply terminals, and a holding unit for holding the liquid crystal display panel detachably, the fluorescent lamp and the lighting unit in an assembled state in which the paired receiving terminals are supported by the paired supply terminals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1992
    Assignee: Toshiba Lighting & Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Hisashi Honda, Yoji Yuge
  • Patent number: 5146393
    Abstract: A fluorescent light fixture is provided to illuminate a rearwardly adjacent wall. An upper reflector reflects light from a forwardly offset fluorescent light bulb in a downwardly and rearwardly oblique direction to illuminate lower areas of the rearwardly adjacent wall. A lower reflector with an upper edge directed substantially toward a central portion of the fluorescent light bulb reflects light substantially horizontally to illuminate uppermost area of the rearwardly adjacent wall where the wall abuts the ceiling. A throttle plate controls the amount of lamp exposed to the lower reflector for intensity control. A glossy white series of reflective surfaces approximating an involute curve gathers output from the fluorescent light bulb for redirection from the specular portion of the upper reflector without hot spots or striping on the wall. The lamp is rotationally positioned to maximize the amount of output controlled by the optic system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1992
    Assignee: Genlyte, Inc.
    Inventor: Roy B. Crane
  • Patent number: 5142466
    Abstract: An assembly for supporting a neon tubing comprises a length of extrusion and at least first and second lenses supported in the extrusion. Preferably, the extrusion includes an angled bottom member having first and second legs. First and second wall members extend transversely to the first and second legs, respectively, of the angled bottom member, with each of the first and second wall members having a medial portion and an end. The extrusion further includes a service rail extending at an obtuse angle from the end of each of the first and second wall members, and the service rail includes a tapered medial portion and a retaining flange. Each of the first and second lenses are supported in a receving channel of the extrusion and has a predetermined length less than the predetermined length of the extrusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1992
    Inventors: Ronald A. Foster, Ruben A. Reyes, Donald W. Murray
  • Patent number: 5138539
    Abstract: A fluorescent lamp device comprises an oblate section type fluorescent lamp having an oblate cross section and provided with a luminous surface illuminating in one direction and with a back plate and a lighting circuit means attached to the back plate and adapted to light the fluorescent lamp. The fluorescent lamp is electrically connected to and integrally assembled with the lighting means including the lighting circuit board by the bendable leads and the terminal pieces capable of having various shapes. In addition, a fluorescent lamp device comprises a fluorescent lamp body which includes a front plate, a back plate and a spacer which is provided between the front plate and the back plate and which defines the oblate sectioned bulb of the fluorescent lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1992
    Assignee: Toshiba Lighting & Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Hisashi Honda, Katsuhide Misono
  • Patent number: 5132886
    Abstract: A strip lighting fixture having a hollow base structure and a cover for closing an open face of the structure. At least one bracket member is mounted in the base structure, and a hinge arm is rotatably attached to the bracket member so that the cover can be rotated away from the base structure. In addition, at least one pin is provided for maintaining the cover in a substantially 90.degree. relation to the plane of the base structure when the cover is rotated from the base structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1992
    Assignee: ML Systems
    Inventors: William E. Hoag, Raymond G. Falci
  • Patent number: 5132884
    Abstract: A high efficiency illumination system having lighting fixtures in spaced apart relation, light reflector panels in the lighting fixtures having two side by side central curved portions and two curved side portions on respective sides of the central portions, and the central and side curved portions being angled to one another, lighting tube receptacles in the lighting fixtures to support at least one lighting tube, ballasts for supplying power at the appropriate voltage to the lighting tubes, ballast boxes for containing ballasts separate from the lighting fixtures, heavy duty wiring for supplying power at a first line voltage to the ballast box from a power supply, and, light duty power supply for transmitting power from the ballast box to the lighting fixtures at a second voltage lower than the line voltage, there being a plurality of lighting fixtures connected by respective light duty wiring to a single common ballast box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1992
    Inventor: Thomas B. Totten
  • Patent number: 5130910
    Abstract: A fluorescent light fixture assembly that provides unidirectional lighting having an intensity which is comparable to that provided by incandescent bulbs within parabolic reflective housings. The light fixture assembly comprises a fluorescent bulb, having an axis of extension, which is connected to an adaptor and a socket member. The fluorescent bulb is situated within a parabolic reflective housing having a longitudinal axis. The reflective housing is affixed to the adaptor so that the axis of extension of the fluorescent bulb is conspicuously angled with respect to the longitudinal axis of the reflective housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1992
    Assignee: Tek Tron Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: H. Joseph Engel
  • Patent number: 5128590
    Abstract: A compact fluorescent lamp including one lamp with one or more tubular lamp members, and an electronic ballast constructed as a unit separate from the foregoing, which constituting an adapter, is electrically and mechanically connectable with the lamp by means of a plug-in connection. In order to achieve the smallest possible length of the compact fluorescent lamp, the plug-in connection between the lamp and the ballast, extends in the direction of the lamp at least partially into the space surrounded by the lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1992
    Inventor: Walter Holzer
  • Patent number: 5128846
    Abstract: A fluorescent dyed polymer member and a light source are structurally arranged in a manner to efficiently gather light from the light source and then transmit the gathered light to a light utilization device. Light from the light source is gathered over a large area that is occupied by the polymer member. This gathered light is transmitted through the polymer member to an edge portion thereof having a relatively small light emitting area. Light is then emitted as an external beam having a cross section that corresponds to the physical shape of the edge of the polymer member, for example a straight of linear footprint of light. The area brightness of this external beam is greater than the area brightness of the initial light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1992
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Ross N. Mills, Cynthia F. Reeves-Janzen, Michael D. Ries, John C. Scott
  • Patent number: 5117342
    Abstract: An improved louver assembly to be used in conjunction with a strip lighting fixture is disclosed. Louver assemblies can be used in series with rows of strip lighting fixtures to form an improved louvered lighting system. The louver assembly is comprised of two longerons which are parallel to and adjacent the lighting fixture. Two brackets mounted over the lighting fixture support the longerons and align them with longerons of adjacent assemblies. A set of louvers is attached to and between opposite longerons. The set of louvers has a stringer fin running transversely through the louver centers and two side baffles running transversely along the louvers' inside corners. The assembly can be swung open easily for access to the lighting fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1992
    Inventor: John A. Vlah
  • Patent number: 5113328
    Abstract: A neon tube lighting system, support apparatus and extrusion therefor is described for use in supporting neon tubing along a corner of a support surface. The support assembly preferably comprises an extrusion, a reflector and an elongate lens member. The extrusion has first and second wall members, and an angled base member interconnecting the first and second wall members and including a support, wherein the wall members and the base member form an enclosure having an opening therein between the first and second wall members. Each of said first and second wall members of the extrusion includes an angular member extending into the enclosure towards the angled base member to form a bearing or support surface. The reflector has first and second angular wall members and an intermediate member interconnecting the first and second angular wall members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1992
    Inventors: Ronald A. Foster, Ruben A. Reyes
  • Patent number: 5111370
    Abstract: A device and method for converting a fluorescent down-light into an up-light or combined up-down-light involves suspending a luminaire body from a ceiling below a pre-existing down-light. Ballast lead extenders connect lamp holders in the luminaire body to the lamp holders in the pre-existing down-light. A reflective panel is inserted above the luminaire body serving the dual purposes of hiding the down-light and downwardly reflecting the light which emanantes from the luminaire body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1992
    Inventor: Walter B. Clark
  • Patent number: 5109323
    Abstract: A socket arrangement for a light fixture holding a tubular lamp having contacts on opposite ends, providing a fixed socket opposite a spring loaded socket with a lamp maneuvering cavity adjacent to the fixed socket, allowing a tubular lamp to be installed nearly straight-in to the sockets, and preventing electrical shock. By providing the maneuvering cavity opposite the spring loaded socket, a first end of a tubular lamp can be maneuvered into the cavity to allow an opposite end of the tubular lamp to insert into the spring loaded contact, and further insertion causes compression of the spring loaded contact, which retracts the first end out of the maneuvering cavity a sufficient distance to swing the first end through a slot formed in a side of the fixed socket and into the fixed socket, whereupon the spring loaded socket expands to resiliently hold the tubular lamp between the two sockets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1992
    Assignees: Thomas Industries, Inc., Day-Brite Lighting, Inc.
    Inventor: Brad Waycaster
  • Patent number: 5105345
    Abstract: An illumination device comprising a reflecting plate, a single or a plural number of linear light source(s) arranged over said reflecting plate and a diffusing plate arranged over said light source(s), a light quantity adjusting means being arranged on the surface of the linear light source on between said light source(s) and said diffusing plate, and said illumination device being so adapted as to uniformalize luminance distribution on the diffusing plate by selecting shape and size of light-transmitting portions of the light quantity adjusting means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1992
    Assignee: Dai-Ichi Seiko Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hideaki Katoh, Nobuhisa Noguchi, Yutaka Kikuchi, Isamu Kaneko
  • Patent number: 5101330
    Abstract: An illumination device comprising a reflecting plate, a single or a plural number of linear light source(s) arranged over said reflecting plate and a diffusing plate arranged over said light source(s), a light quantity adjusting means being arranged on the surface of the linear light source on between said light source(s) and said diffusing plate, and said illumination device being so adapted as to uniformalize luminance distribution on the diffusing plate by selecting shape and size of light-transmitting portions of the light quantity adjusting means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1992
    Assignee: Dai-Ichi Seiko Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Minoru Suzuki
  • Patent number: 5089943
    Abstract: An illuminating device has two lamps developed as discharge tubes which have a serpentine course and are nested in each other by, in each case, a narrow U-shaped region and a wide U-shaped region. In this way both lamps can be of identical development and permit uniform illumination of a rectangular liquid crystal cell even upon failure of one lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1992
    Assignee: VDO Adolf Schindling AG
    Inventor: Lothar Wolfelschneider
  • Patent number: 5088015
    Abstract: A portable fluorescent lamp fixture adapted for use with a plurality of fluorescent lamps includes an elongated center channel extending substantially the entire length of the fixture and disposed intermediate a pair of fluorescent lamps for providing a high strength, rugged structure. With a rubber end cap attached to each end of the center channel and a transparent protective tube comprised of polycarbonate or butyrate extending between the end caps and disposed about the center channel and fluorescent lamps, the lamp fixture is provided with a liquid-tight seal. The center channel includes an open lower portion along its length, having an inverted generally U-shaped cross-section, and is adapted to receive a removable snap-on cover along its entire length for enclosing lamp circuitry such as a ballast, a terminal block and wire leads. The removable cover facilitates access to lamp circuitry for maintenance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1992
    Assignee: Woodhead Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Horacio A. Baggio, Mark D. Burrows
  • Patent number: 5079682
    Abstract: A method of reducing the resistance of a sleeping mammal to arising at a preselected wake up time by exposing the mammal to at least one source of artificial light for a period of exposure of at least about 0.5 hour and no longer than about 8 hours before the preselected wake up time. The intensity of the artificial light may increase during the period of exposure. An apparatus for carrying out the method comprises a normally deactuated source of artificial light capable of illuminating a mammal, comprising a plurality of electric lamps, a control device, such as a timer, for signalling the commencement of a period of exposure preceding the mammal's preselected wake up time and an increase in illumination intensity during the period of exposure, after its commencement. The apparatus further features circuitry and a power supply, responsive to the control device, for actuating one lamp in response to the commencement signal, and for actuating additional lamps later during the period of exposure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1992
    Inventor: Seth D. Roberts
  • Patent number: 5079681
    Abstract: An illuminating apparatus including a casing having an open side, a light reflective surface formed on the interior of the casing, a light diffusive transmission member on the casing and covering the open side, a discharge lamp mounted in the casing underneath the light diffusive transmission member, a first heating element disposed between the discharge lamp and the light reflective surface and a second heating element disposed between the discharge lamp and the light diffusive transmission member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1990
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1992
    Assignee: Toshiba Lighting and Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Masaharu Baba, Yasuhiro Nieda, Akihiko Komatsuzaki, Takao Mizukami
  • Patent number: 5073845
    Abstract: A retrofit unit for replacing conventional incandescent light bulbs with fluorescent, high pressure sodium, metal halide or similar light bulbs, tubes or sources. A hardwire ballast is used in conjunction with conventional light fixtures, including recessed fixtures, to permit the retrofit conversion from incandescent light sources.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1991
    Assignee: Janice Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Truman R. Aubrey
  • Patent number: 5072344
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a lighting fixture which is supported by inverted T-shaped rails of a grid-type ceiling. The lighting fixture is provided with a clamp at least partially excised from the housing of the lighting fixture. This clamp is folded 180.degree. and fastened so as to engage the T-rail and inhibit any relative lateral or longitudinal movement between the T-rail and the lighting fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1991
    Assignee: Genlyte, Inc.
    Inventor: William C. Fabbri
  • Patent number: 5065292
    Abstract: An apparatus which is used to convert a conventional table lamp from use of ordinary incandescent light bulbs to use of energy saving fluorescent bulbs. The apparatus includes an adapted which securely receives a fluorescent bulb, is substantially tamper proof with regard to the light fixture, is security oriented to inhibit theft from the light fixture and is an easy to install, permanent retrofit apparatus. Also, an easily installed secure, theft-resistance ballast is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1991
    Inventor: Truman R. Aubrey
  • Patent number: 5062030
    Abstract: A light reflector for specific use in combination with a lighting fixture having one or more elongate light source such as fluorescent lamp is disclosed. It has a plurality of angled planar light reflecting surfaces disposed behind and symmetrically of the light source and includes a central reflecting surface. The light reflector is so dimensioned and substantially configured such that it could readily be assembled and/or fitted about in all existing fixtures. For instance, one or two reflectors could readily fit to two or four-bulb lighting fixtures, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1991
    Inventor: Luisito A. Figueroa
  • Patent number: 5055985
    Abstract: The apparatus is a nestable fluorescent fixture housing of a truncated pyramid shape with "knock-out" apertures provided on the sloping walls thereof to engage the ends of fluorescent bulbs. A wedge-shaped separate ballast/socket assembly is provided for each fluorescent bulb, preferably a "biax" bulb. The slope of the wedge shape of the ballast/socket assembly is complementary to the slope of the walls of the fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1991
    Assignee: Keene Corporation
    Inventor: William Fabbri
  • Patent number: 5053933
    Abstract: The fluorescent lamp consists of a discharge space outwardly limited by a glass tube and of discharge electrodes as well as of an elongated inner element that limits inwardly the discharge space. The entire inner wall of the glass tube and the outer wall of the inner element are covered with a layer of fluorescent material and inside of the inner element, at least along a part of its entire length, an electrically conductive material is placed that is connected with a discharge electrode. In order to improve the lamp efficiency and also to reduce the cost of manufacture of such a lamp, the lamp according to the invention is so designed that the inner element is a support for the capacitor elements which are placed in the inner space of the inner element. The capacitor elements extend at least along a part of the entire length of the inner element. An electrical potential emitting from the said capacitor elements acts perpendicular against the known discharge current of the lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1991
    Inventor: Pavel Imris
  • Patent number: 5038256
    Abstract: A fixture for a fluorescent lamp includes a diffuser panel. The diffuser panel has a frame and longitudinal elements supported by the frame and spaced apart from one another. At least some of the elements are constructed of a material to allow diffusion of impinging light. Preferred materials are translucent or transparent, such as glass or plastic. The diffuser panel also functions as an air diffuser. Provision of a nozzle in the base of the fixture allows air to flow through the panel by a sucking effect created by high velocity forced air flowing through the nozzle. This results in fixture cleaning and temperature equalization. The fixture is particularly adapted to be mounted in a moving vehicle. For this purpose, the panel is designed to be tamper-resistant and to provide easy maintenance. The diffuser panel, when a latch is opened, may be lowered by rotation to provide access to the lamp and ballast.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1991
    Assignee: Gulton Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Jack Burkarth
  • Patent number: 5036436
    Abstract: A task light including an aperture fluorescent lamp, a housing surrounding the lamp and having an opening aligned with the lamp aperture, and a reflector on one side of the housing opening for redirecting light back to the plane of illumination of the lamp to create a longer, more uniform illumination field for evenly illuminating a subject and acting as a direct-glare preventing visor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 30, 1991
    Assignee: Paul M. Rattigan
    Inventors: Paul M. Rattigan, Thomas M. Lemons
  • Patent number: 5029059
    Abstract: A screen light comprises a substantially box-shaped housing having a light outlet opening, a fluorescent lamp arranged in the housing centrally in its upper region, and elements for subdividing the light outlet opening into substantially three fields including a central field and two lateral fields, so that a part of a light flux produced by the fluorescent lamp exits primarily directly in the central field, while two parts of the light flux exit from the lateral fields secondarily by reflection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 2, 1991
    Assignee: Firma Thorn Licht GmbH
    Inventor: Manfred Grimm
  • Patent number: 5020252
    Abstract: An illuminated sign system, e.g., an illuminated canopy or roof ridge for petrol stations and the like, comprising a trough with one or more electrical fluorescent tubes partially covered by a light shield having areas of differing light transmissivity, e.g., filters or translucent areas, with reflecting screens in oblique position in the rear, optionally colored to reflect light of one or more selected colors, and a front side of transparent weather-proof material covered with translucent colored indicia.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1987
    Date of Patent: June 4, 1991
    Inventor: Johannes A. G. De Boef
  • Patent number: 5015917
    Abstract: An adaptor for fluorescent tubes having contact pins, the adaptor having a fluorescent tube-compatible plug-in socket and an incandescent lamp-compatible screw cap. The adaptor having an external casing. The external casing having the incandescent screw cap. A printed circuit board and an inner casing are both secured to the incandescent lamp-compatible screw cap. The inner casing part having a fluorescent tube compatible plug-in socket and the inner casing having a socket area which has a plurality of contact members. The contact members are electrically connected by bridges on the printed circuit board. A flexible connection of the inner casing to the light fittings is created. The fluorescent tube-compatible plug-in socket receives different shaped caps of the light fittings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 14, 1991
    Inventor: Juerg Nigg
  • Patent number: 5014170
    Abstract: A fluorescent luminaire lens frame is described wherein the frame is formed from a U shaped element, and a cross bar. Each of the two elements are formed from single piece sheet metal blanks. The frame includes hinge elements on the free ends of the U extending beyond the cross bar that may be coupled to a luminaire housing. The frame joints are also structured with abutting and capturing structures to prevent rotation of the sides away from about a right angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 1989
    Date of Patent: May 7, 1991
    Assignee: GTE Products Corporation
    Inventors: Mahmoud A. Gawad, John Graudins
  • Patent number: 5012396
    Abstract: A method of generating a light source suitable for television studios or video production facilities with high speed flourescent lighting devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1991
    Inventor: Paul D. Costa
  • Patent number: 5008789
    Abstract: A fluorescent lamp of this invention includes an ultraviolet reflecting layer of a nonemission material essentially consisting of .alpha.-alumina, and a light-emitting layer. The nonemission material is a white powder having an average grain size of 0.05 .mu.m to 2 .mu.m. The light-emitting layer is formed on the discharge generation region side of the ultraviolet reflecting layer. According to this invention, ultraviolet ray having passed through the light-emitting layer without being absorbed therein are reflected by the ultraviolet reflecting layer and are radiated onto the light-emitting layer again. For this reason, the light-emitting layer is more frequently excited with the ultraviolet rays to increase a luminous flux.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 16, 1991
    Assignee: Nichia Kagaku Kogyo K.K.
    Inventors: Kiyotaka Arai, Hirofumi Sumoto, Keizi Ichinomiya
  • Patent number: 5006970
    Abstract: In a fluorescent light fixture having a panel for supporting thereon an electrical socket assembly for holding a fluorescent tube, a simple, mechanical, manually-effected interlock for securing the socket assembly in a tube-receiving and supporting mode on the panel. The panel itself is formed with a non-rectangular cut-out zone for receiving an upwardly extending wall of the socket assembly inserted upwardly through the cut-out zone, and a base of the socket assembly being then shiftable arcuately to effect interengaging intercoupling between a laterally-opening slot in the base of the socket assembly and a projecting edge of the panel bounding the cut-out zone formed therein. A dimple-like deformation formed in the panel on an underside thereof defines a detent to deter inadvertent mechanical separation of the socket assembly from the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1991
    Assignee: Kenall Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Edward T. Mackiewicz
  • Patent number: 5005110
    Abstract: An electrostatic display device having a plurality of particles moving back and forth in a chamber illuminated by light. The chamber has oppositely charged top and bottom plates whereby the particles are alternately electrostatically attracted to and repelled from the plates while illuminated by the light, thus creating a constantly moving decorative light display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1991
    Inventor: Gregory R. Brotz
  • Patent number: 5001613
    Abstract: A neon tube lighting system, support apparatus and extrusion therefor is described for use in overcoming the problems associated with prior art free-standing neon tube lighting systems. The support assembly preferably comprises an extrusion, a reflector and an elongate lens member. The extrusion has first and second wall members located in substantially parallel aligned relation, and a bottom wall member interconnecting the first and second wall members and including a support, wherein the wall members form an enclosure having an opening therein between the first and second side wall members. Each of said first and second wall members of the extrusion includes an angular member extending into the enclosure towards the bottom wall member to form a bearing surface. The reflector has first and second angular wall members and a bottom wall member interconnecting the first and second angular wall members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1991
    Inventors: Ronald A. Foster, Ruben A. Reyes
  • Patent number: 5001614
    Abstract: A floor lamp apparatus is provided in which an elongated lightbulb, preferably a fluorescent lightbulb, is supported above the floor. The apparatus is preferably triangular, the first and second sides of the triangle forming a support structure, and the elongated lightbulb being fixed along the third side. The elongated lightbulb can thereby be supported above the surface by either of the first and second sides, and at different angles relative to the surface. The invention is particularly useful to detachably support fluorescent light units of the type having at least one elongated fluorescent lightbulb fixed to an elongated channel housing. a cradle can be formed in the third side to receive and retain the channel housing. Adjacent sides are preferably detachable, or pivotally connected, to permit convenient folding and storage of the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1991
    Inventor: John Buss
  • Patent number: 4998189
    Abstract: A collapsible reflector unit (70) is disclosed in its preferred form for use in quick-erect portable display structures particularly adapted for temporary tradeshow booths. Unit (70) generally includes a reflector enclosure (74) formed of vinyl coated, fire retardant, flexible fabric attached to the display structure frame (9) around its periphery by a two-part fastening tape (124). The reflector enclosure (74) is supported in a tent-like manner away from the frame (9) by a support frame (72) including flexible rods (78, 80) removably anchored to the frame (9) and extending arcuately from the frame (9). The central segments (84) of the rods (78, 80) are held rearwardly of the frame (9) by interposing rods (92) therebetween, with the rods (92) having extensions (98, 100) extending contiguously therefrom and having their free ends removably anchored to the frame (9) intermediate the anchor locations of the flexible rods (78, 80). A light system (76) is removably attached to the rods (92 ) by clips (104).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1991
    Inventor: Giles Guggemos
  • Patent number: 4976514
    Abstract: A liquid crystal display device includes a light-responsive fluorescent screen that luminenesces at least one kind of visible light when activated by a U.V. light impinging on the screen. The device further includes a liquid crystal cell disposed in front of the luminous surface of the fluorescent screen and an irradiating device for impinging the active light onto the fluorescent screen so as to enable the display device to display a two dimensional image at a high speed with a high quality even though it uses a simple matrix address driving system for the liquid crystal cell. The display device incorporates an intercepting layer composed of glass plate or plastic film which intercepts black light discharged from the fluorescent screen to prevent the leakage of harmful U.V. rays to the outside of the display device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 11, 1990
    Assignee: Pioneer Electronic Corporation
    Inventors: Yasushi Murata, Satoru Tanaka
  • Patent number: 4977490
    Abstract: A fluorescent light fitting (1) comprises an elongate metal casing (2) of hollow cross-section with spaced-apart fluorescent tube holders (6) projecting from at least one wall (5) of the casing (2) and with another wall (4) of the casing provided with a removable or releasable baseplate (14) on which internal electrical components (13) are mounted, with means (18, 19, 20) to fasten the baseplate (14) to the fitting (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 11, 1990
    Assignee: Fifth Generation Technology (Manufacturing) Ltd.
    Inventor: John H. Davies
  • Patent number: 4975812
    Abstract: An indirect fluorescent luminaire with planar specular reflectors arranged in such a manner as to project its maximum intensity approximately at 130.degree. above nadir to optimize the uniformity of ceiling luminance. The lamps are stacked vertically to further minimize the vertical projection of intensity and enhance the lateral projection. The fixture may be suspended at distances of 12 inches or less from the ceiling without causing excessive luminance on the ceiling above the luminaire or excessive luminance ratios between the brightest area directly over the fixture and a point midway between them.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 4, 1990
    Assignee: Litecontrol
    Inventor: John M. Cole, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4974122
    Abstract: A compact backlighting luminaire is provided for liquid crystal displays (LCDs). The body of the luminaire is formed of optically clear glass or acrylic resins. The body comprises a mesa extending from a base comprising a flange extending around the periphery of the mesa. The top of the mesa comprises at least two non-parallel sloped surfaces. The base of the luminaire body may form a wedge with the flange being thicker at one edge than at an opposite edge. The bottom surface and edges of the body may be coated with a reflective film. A fluorescent lamp extends around the periphery of the mesa and is supported by the flange. A cover may be provided to extend over the mesa and around the periphery of the flange to secure the lamp, to reduce illumination losses, and to provide a mounting surface for an LCD.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1989
    Date of Patent: November 27, 1990
    Assignee: Rockwell International Corporation
    Inventor: James E. Shaw
  • Patent number: 4969070
    Abstract: A fluorescent fixture housing is preferably molded of a thermoplastic material, and includes a base portion, a pair of longitudinal sides and a pair of opposite ends. A pair of lamp holders are mounted to the housing on opposite ends so as to receive and hold a lamp therebetween. A pair of electrical connectors are mounted to the housing and lamp holders, and are electrically connected to the lamp holders to supply power to a lamp mounted between the lamp holders. Electrical conductors are mounted to the fixture housing and are connected between the lamp holders and a wiring harness, the wiring harness being removably connected to a ballast. The wiring harness is mounted to the base of the fixture and the ballast is slidably interconnected with the wiring harness to affix it in position. In a second embodiment, the wiring harness remains free from the fixture, and the ballast is removably mounted in the desired location on th base portion of the fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1989
    Date of Patent: November 6, 1990
    Assignee: Valmont Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Larry J. Costa
  • Patent number: 4965875
    Abstract: There is provided a fluorescent lamp having a fluorescent tube and a connecting element for connection to a source of current. The connecting element includes a mains plug having contact plugs electrically connected to the fluorescent tube and projecting on one side of the mains plug. The area of the connecting element facing the contact plugs is in the shape of a housing for the fluorescent tube having an oblong shape with the mains plug located on the longitudinal side thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1988
    Date of Patent: October 23, 1990
    Assignee: Korte-Licht
    Inventors: Heinrich Korte, Theo Spix
  • Patent number: 4958267
    Abstract: A portable electric lamp of explosion-proof construction including an elongated hand grip, an elongated flourescent bulb having a U-shaped joint light-generating portion supported at one end of the hand grip and a transparent tube positioned about the light-generating portion of the bulb utilizes an elongated tubular protector element positioned about the transparent tube and which cooperates with the hand grip to maintain the transparent tube in position about the light-generating portion of the bulb. The lamp further includes a power cord routed through the end of the hand grip opposite the light-generating portion and the lamp includes an amount of magnesite base cement positioned in the hand grip and interposed between the light-generating portion and a section of the power cord entering the hand grip. The lamp further includes a ballast assembly having a ballast interconnected in the power cord at a location remote of the hand grip and wherein the ballast is encased in magnesite base cement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 18, 1990
    Assignee: K & H Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Karl A. Baake