Illuminating Or Display Apparatus (e.g., Sign, Runway Light, Channel Marker) Patents (Class 362/559)
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Patent number: 8075408Abstract: In a first aspect there is provided a modular visual output component for a gaming machine, including a housing, at least one visual output device, an input connector electrically coupled to the visual output device, and an output connector electrically coupled to the input connector. The input and output connectors being arranged relative to the housing and shaped such that the output connector can be connected to an input connector of a further modular visual output component having the same configuration with the modular visual output components abutting one another, whereby two or more modular visual output components can be joined to one another and supplied from a common power source.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2008Date of Patent: December 13, 2011Assignee: Aristocrat Technologies Australia Pty.Inventor: John Shi Feng Hwang
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Publication number: 20110292673Abstract: A display and illumination system includes a light source section accommodating a light source; an optical fiber for transmitting light from the light source; a display illumination unit radiating light transmitted by the optical fiber; a light source module installed in the light source section, accommodating the light source, and optically connected to the optical fiber; a plug electrode installed in the light source module and supplying electric power to the light source; a convex portion on a first side of the light source module, engaging the optical fiber, and extracting light from the light source; and a concave portion located opposite the first side of the light source module and urging the convex portion toward the optical fiber with a constant force.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 11, 2011Publication date: December 1, 2011Applicant: MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC CORPORATIONInventors: Koji Aono, Akihiro Shima
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Publication number: 20110280040Abstract: An optical sight is provided and may include: a housing; at least one optic supported by the housing; an illumination device associated with the at least one optic and selectively supplying the at least one optic with light, the illumination device including a first fiber associated with a first light source; a coupler collecting light from the first fiber and supplying the at least one optic with light from the first light source; and an electroluminescent device associated with the at least one optic and selectively supplying the at least one optic with light separate from the coupler.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 26, 2011Publication date: November 17, 2011Applicant: TRIJICON, INC.Inventors: Darin W. Schick, Thomas K. Maciak, Kian Siong Lim
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Publication number: 20110255301Abstract: A direct-viewing type display device 100a includes a display panel 10 having a display region 31 and a frame region 30 formed outside the display region; and a light guide element 20 having an incident face 21, an outgoing face 22, and a plurality of light guide portions formed between the incident face 21 and the outgoing face 22. The plurality of light guide portions include a transparent portion; the transparent portion has a metal portion provided in at least a part of a side face thereof; the incident face 21 of the light guide element 20 is disposed to overlap a part 32 of a peripheral display region adjoining the frame region 30 of the display panel 10 along a first axis J1 and to be parallel to a surface of the display panel 10; and a distance between the outgoing face 22 and the incident face 21 of the light guide element 20 increases along the first axis J1 from the part 32 of the peripheral display region toward the frame region 30.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 13, 2009Publication date: October 20, 2011Applicant: SHARP KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Hisashi Watanabe
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Publication number: 20110255300Abstract: Certain embodiments may be set to reside in an optical display. The optical display includes a plurality of strands arranged in spaced apart relationship. Each strand has a plurality of waveguides, and each waveguide has an output at a different position along the length of the respective strand. Each waveguide has an input end. The optical display also includes a light driver for supplying light to the input end of each waveguide so light can propagate along the waveguide and exit at the outputs.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 27, 2011Publication date: October 20, 2011Applicant: Aristocrat Technologies Australia Pty LimitedInventors: Neal Anthony Porter, Zenja Solaja, Christian James Salmon
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Patent number: 8018551Abstract: A liquid crystal display module displays an image on a liquid crystal panel. The liquid crystal module includes a liquid crystal panel and a backlight assembly. The backlight assembly includes a reflecting sheet having a raised portion that receives a light source and supports a diffusing sheet and/or optical sheet positioned between the liquid crystal panel and the light source.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2006Date of Patent: September 13, 2011Assignee: LG Display Co. Ltd.Inventors: Dong-Im Huo, Jong-Kook Lee
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Patent number: 8016441Abstract: An illuminated instrument cluster utilizes a single light emitting diode to backlight the entire dial surface. The LED is aligned with a light guide then directs light into a cavity of a light housing. The cavity includes a surface that reflects light upwardly onto a back surface of the dial face to provide the desired illumination.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2008Date of Patent: September 13, 2011Assignee: Continental Automotive Systems US, Inc.Inventors: Vyacheslav B. Birman, Christian Tanguy
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Patent number: 8016455Abstract: An optical device for creating an illumination window includes radiation sources and an optical element. The optical element is arranged to create a substantially collimated radiation beam from radiation generated by the radiation sources, in which the radiation generated by the respective sources is substantially unmixed. The optical device further includes a first lens plate having first sub-lenses, in which each first sub-lens projects a part of the radiation beam at an illumination window, such that the projections of each first sub-lens at least partially overlap.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2006Date of Patent: September 13, 2011Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.Inventor: Elvira Johanna Maria Paulussen
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Patent number: 7997746Abstract: An arrangement and method for displaying at least a first and a second image. The arrangement comprises at least one light source (120, 121, 220, 221, 320, 321) adapted to generate light having at least a first and a second light characteristic; and at least a first and a second image forming element (122, 123, 222, 223, 322, 323) arranged to display a first and a second image (128, 129, 230, 231), respectively. The first image forming element (122, 222, 322) is at least responsive to the light having the first light characteristic. The second image forming element (123, 223, 323) is at least responsive to the light having the second light characteristic.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2006Date of Patent: August 16, 2011Assignee: Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications ABInventors: Gunnar Klinghult, Mats Kleverman, Richard Nilsson, Kent Ådán, Torbjörn Karlelid
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Patent number: 7997783Abstract: The front light unit includes a light source and a light guide plate that guides light emitted from the light source. The light guide plate includes a rear surface through which the guided light is emitted and a front surface facing the rear surface, and a plurality of prism shape structures which are provided in one unit with the light guide plate and emits light totally reflected from the front surface of the light guide plate. The light guide plate and the prism shape structures are formed of a transparent elastic material.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2008Date of Patent: August 16, 2011Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hoon Song, Hong-seok Lee, Jun-bo Yoon, Joo-hyung Lee
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Patent number: 7988525Abstract: A method for incorporating optical fibers into sheet materials, such as fabrics, creates a structure which can be incorporated into items such as plush toys. Optical fibers are made to pass through the sheet material in a desired arrangements. Ends of the optical fibers are enlarged such that they will not readily pass back through the fabric. The ends are then covered with material that permits light to pass therethrough. The resulting structure can be readily incorporated into an item, such as a plush toy.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2007Date of Patent: August 2, 2011Assignee: Hallmark Cards, IncorporatedInventors: Jennifer R. Garbos, Nancy Lynn Short
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Patent number: 7985016Abstract: Fiber optic display systems and related methods are disclosed. According to one embodiment, a fiber optic display system can include a plurality of fiber optics. Output ends of the fiber optics can be spaced from one another and can be arranged in predetermined positions such that at least a portion of the output ends are positioned in a first plane and another portion of the output ends are positioned in a second plane. A light-transmissive material can contain the output ends. The output ends can terminate within the light-transmissive material and can be angled with respect to the light-transmissive material such that light transmitted within the fiber optics emits into the light-transmissive material. A light source can generate a plurality of light beams and selectively control input of the light beams into the input ends for transmission of light in the fiber optics such that an image is formed.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2008Date of Patent: July 26, 2011Inventor: Dorian Christine Webb Fritze
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Patent number: 7980739Abstract: An in-vehicle illuminating device 1 capable of efficiently guiding luminous flux emitted from a luminous source to a light guiding body. The in-vehicle illuminating device 1 is provided with a rod-shaped light guiding body 13 which reflects, on its inner surface, light rays incident from an optical incidence plane 16 provided at an end 13a to guide the light rays to the other end longitudinally provided, a lamp 19 which emits light to a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the rod-shaped light guiding body 13 and is arranged in the vicinity of the optical incidence plane 16, and an light introducing body 20 for introducing the luminous flux emitted from the lamp 19 to the optical incidence plane 16. The light introducing body 20 allows the optical incidence plane 16 to be set within a range of the luminous flux emitted from the lamp 19.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2009Date of Patent: July 19, 2011Assignee: Honda Access CorporationInventors: Shiro Iwai, Tomoki Kawamura, Hiroto Murabayashi
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Publication number: 20110170020Abstract: A backlight unit 12 includes a light guide plate 18, an LED 16, an LED board 17, a light exit portion 31, a board mounting portion 36, a clip 23 and a plate spring 47. The light guide plate 18 and the LED 16 extend in the front-to-rear direction. The rear part of the light guide plate 18 is fixed to the LED board 17 with a front part of the light guide plate 18 separating from the LED board 17. The light exit portion 31 is provided at a front part of the light guide plate 18. The light exit portion 31 has a light exit surface 36 from which light from the LED 16 exits and travel toward an optical member 15. The board-mounting portion 30 is provided at a rear part of the light guide plate 18 and mounted to the LED board 17. The clip 23 fixes the board-mounting portion 30 to the LED board 17. The plate spring 47 pushes a rear part of the board-mounting portion 30 located more to the rear than the clip 23 such that the rear part separates from the LED board 17.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 2, 2009Publication date: July 14, 2011Applicant: SHARP KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Nobuhiro Kasai
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Patent number: 7973877Abstract: An object of the invention is to provide an illumination device that can make it easy to detect a disorder of a light emitting element, and a liquid crystal display apparatus including the illumination device. Each light emitting element array (S) is constituted by light emitting elements (T) which are connected in series. To the light emitting elements (T) are individually connected in parallel current bypass elements (U) that are changed from a disconnected state where no current flows to a connected state where current flows when a predetermined voltage higher than that applied to the light emitting elements in an lighting state is applied thereto. Each power source unit (P) is connected to each light emitting element array (S) in series, and supplies constant current to each light emitting element (T). Terminal units for voltage detection (11) are connected to an anode (A) of each light emitting element (T).Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2007Date of Patent: July 5, 2011Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Daisuke Takeda, Tomotoshi Sato, Akira Ohnishi
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Patent number: 7972050Abstract: The invention relates to a display apparatus with a display unit, having means for background lighting at the back of the display apparatus. According to the invention, the means for background lighting comprise two illumination units being provided at the right-hand and left-hand of the display apparatus, said illumination units being formed as substantially vertically positioned, longitudinal light guides comprising means for coupling out light, each of the light guides being provided on at least one of its ends with a light source. The light sources preferably comprise coloured LEDs.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2004Date of Patent: July 5, 2011Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.Inventors: Theodorus Franciscus Emilius Maria Overes, Johannes Petrus Cornelis Maria Verhagen
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Publication number: 20110157911Abstract: A light pipe for illuminating a vehicle display having an arcuate tubular member made of an optically transmissive material with a first surface portion having a first radius of curvature diametrically opposite and a second surface portion having a second radius greater than the first radius. A first surface portion having a first series of notches spaced along the length of the first surface portion defines first regions of smooth surface between the notches. A second series of notches spaced along the length of the second surface portion defines second regions of smooth surface between the notches. The first and second series of notches are offset such that a notch in the first series lies diametrically opposite to a second region of smooth surface, so that light conveyed by the light pipe is deflected by each notch through said smooth surfaces and out of the light pipe.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 1, 2010Publication date: June 30, 2011Applicant: VISTEON GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventor: SAMIR MEZOUARI
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Publication number: 20110141761Abstract: An illuminating device is provided for an adjusting mechanism adapted to adjust an operating parameter in a vehicle, with a light-transmitting material that extends along the direction of extension and emits light visible to the user in a first and a second section. In order to realize the transition area between the two light-emitting sections concise and such that it can be easily recognized by the user, it is proposed that the light-transmitting material features a light-transmitting transition area with reduced material thickness between the first and the second section referred to the direction of extension.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 10, 2010Publication date: June 16, 2011Applicant: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventor: Sandra Trujillo Linke
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Patent number: 7940457Abstract: In an aspect, described herein is a dynamically controllable optoelectronic smart window which utilizes a diffraction grating for selective transmission or rejection of a specific region of the electromagnetic spectrum, for example the infrared, near-infrared and/or visible regions. Window embodiments described herein may further utilize a selectively controlled and/or patterned total internal reflection layer to assist with the selective rejection of a specific spectral region while allowing for transmission of another specific spectral region. In another aspect, the present invention provides methods for dynamically controlling the transmission or rejection of solar near-infrared and/or visible radiation.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2008Date of Patent: May 10, 2011Assignee: The Board of Trustees of the University of IllinoisInventors: Kanti Jain, Linus Jang, Yoon Soo Han
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Patent number: 7866866Abstract: A key system includes a display surface, a light source, and a plurality of optical fibers having first and second ends and a longitudinal sheath. The plurality of optical fibers are connected to the light source at the first ends thereof and configured to transmit light from the light source to the display surface.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2005Date of Patent: January 11, 2011Assignee: Sony Ericsson Mible Communications ABInventor: Per Magnus Orjan Wahlstrom
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Patent number: 7845103Abstract: There is provided an illuminated sign mounting system and methods for mounting an illuminated sign to a mounting surface.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2007Date of Patent: December 7, 2010Assignee: Acuity Brands, Inc.Inventors: Mark Logan, Paul Pickard, Mark Wedell
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Publication number: 20100299982Abstract: A billboard illuminated by optical fibers is realized by including a framework (1) having plurality outer surfaces (11) for display purpose, multiples optical fibers (2) provided within the framework (1) for guiding light from one surface (11A) to another (11B), and said optical fibers (2) are arranged in a matrix fashion with each optical fiber is spaced by a predetermined space (h) to form a figure or characters, a projecting device (3) placed away from the framework (1) by a predetermined distance (W) as light source, and a cladding (4) applied onto outer surfaces (11) for reinforcing the junction portion where the optical fiber (2) exposed from the outer surfaces (11).Type: ApplicationFiled: February 12, 2010Publication date: December 2, 2010Inventor: Chu-Yih Yu
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Publication number: 20100265735Abstract: A display assembly includes a light pipe that has a front face adapted for emitting light to illuminate a display. The light pipe defines a compartment for receiving a light source. A light shield is disposed overlying the compartment. Channel segments are formed in the rear face and are symmetrical about the compartment. Light from the light source is extracted through the front face to create glow regions about the light shield, over the channel segments, and adjacent the edges of the light pipe. This results in symmetrically uniform illumination of the display while utilizing a single central light source.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 15, 2009Publication date: October 21, 2010Applicant: Delphi Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Gail M. Sylvester, Raymond Lippmann, Martin L. Adams
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Patent number: 7806535Abstract: Described herein are devices that provide projection-type video output in a portable design. The projection-type display devices include a battery that stores electrical energy. The battery increases display device portability and flexible usage by permitting display device operation in locations not serviceable by a fixed power supply. For example, inclusion of a battery extends projector-type display device usage into a car, library, remote environment, or any other setting where fixed power outlets are not readily available or within power cord reach. To increase device endurance from a finite battery power supply, the present invention may also implement one or more hardware designs that reduce power consumption.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2007Date of Patent: October 5, 2010Inventor: William J. Plut
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Patent number: 7802913Abstract: An LED lamp includes a positioning frame base, LED bars, a light guide plate, a reflection sheet, an optical film, a power supply unit and a protective cover. The LED bars and the light guide plate are disposed at the inner side of the positioning frame base; the reflection sheet is stuck on one side of the light guide plate; the optical film is disposed on the other side of the light guide plate, and the protective cover is disposed over the optical film. The power supply unit is installed at the rear side of the positioning frame base for converting and supplying steady DC power for the LED bars. Different types of optical films can be selected for adjusting the lighting angles of the LED bars.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2008Date of Patent: September 28, 2010Assignee: Teamwin Opto-Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventor: Tzung-Shiun Tsai
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Patent number: 7802908Abstract: A light guide module and a display device with the light guide module are disclosed. The light guide module includes a rigid light guide film and a soft light guide film. The soft light guide film is pasted on the rigid light guide film. The soft light guide film has a first surface, and a pattern is formed on the first surface. The area of the first surface without the pattern is pasted on the rigid light guide film. The pattern is positioned between the soft light guide film and the rigid light guide film. The display device includes at least one light guide module and a light source located at one side of the light guide module. When the light source is on, the pattern is lit and visible.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2008Date of Patent: September 28, 2010Assignees: Silitek Electronic (Guangzhou) Co., Ltd., Lite-On Technology CorporationInventors: Hui-Ling Lin, Chang-Hung Pan
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Patent number: 7797866Abstract: An illuminable sign (20) has a base (22); a trough (24) having a configuration C formed in the base (22); a light dispensing medium (26) having the configuration C fitted in the trough (24) and including a pair of light-entering ports (28, 30); a light generator (32) fixed in operative relation between the pair of light-entering ports (28, 30), the light generator (32) including at least one light source (34); and a cover (36) fitted to the base.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2009Date of Patent: September 21, 2010Assignee: OSRAM SYLVANIA Inc.Inventors: Michael J. Swantner, Douglas G. Seymour
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Patent number: 7800515Abstract: A warning system for barriers of highways comprises a plurality of barrier plates erected on two sides of roads in a different distance arrangement, and each including an optical fiber and a power line for network connection and communication connected therewith, and including a plurality of LED warning lights and LED illumination lights attached thereon; a number of electric control boxes affixed onto the barrier plates in a different distance arrangement, and each electrically connecting with the optical fiber and the power line for controllably changing warning and illuminating signs of the LED warning lights and the LED illumination lights; a plurality of solar energy devices matching with the electrical control boxes for absorbing and storing solar energy to supply power in the night or in electricity shortage; multiple monitor stations severing to monitor the electrical control boxes for controlling the LED warning lights of the barrier plates to change warning signs.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2007Date of Patent: September 21, 2010Inventor: Chih-Hung Chen
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Patent number: 7794093Abstract: A projection display apparatus includes a light source, a light intensity equalizing element, a reflective light valve, a relay optical system, and a projecting optical system; the light intensity equalizing element being an optical device in which a cross-sectional shape in a direction orthogonal to a central axis of the light has four corners; the cross-sectional shape of the light intensity equalizing element being determined in accordance with a rectangular ideal illumination area determined so as to include the image forming area on the reflective light valve, an illumination area on the reflective light valve when a reference light intensity equalizing element is assumed to be used, the reference light intensity equalizing element being rectangular in a cross-sectional shape in a direction orthogonal to the central light ray, and the cross-sectional shape of the reference light intensity equalizing element.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2007Date of Patent: September 14, 2010Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric CorporationInventors: Kuniko Kojima, Tomohiro Sasagawa
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Publication number: 20100226145Abstract: A backlighting optical fiber consists essentially of an optical fiber with an axially recess disposed along the inner wall; a reflector set into said axially recess, said reflector includes a reflecting surface disposed on the inner side of said reflector, to reflect the incident light toward the opposite direction of said reflector and emitting outwardly. A backlight module formed therefrom comprises a plurality of said optical fibers parallel arranged on a plane surface of a substrate and a LCD display device includes said backlight module and a LCD display.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2009Publication date: September 9, 2010Inventor: Chu-Yih Yu
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Patent number: 7789547Abstract: An improvement in LED lighting simulative of neon lighting comprises a light cable (3). A clamp (2) coupled to the cable (3) holds an end of the cable (3) in a predetermined bend, and an LED (14) is optically coupled to the cable (3). A support (11) is coupled to the clamp and includes a surface (34) adjacent to the cable (3) to reflect light incident on its surface, which is a diffuse reflector. A clip (4) retains the cable (3) on the support (11). The clamp (2) is at least partially opaque and shields an end of the cable (3) to simulate a neon tube. The LED light source (14) comprises a housing (12) to which the clamp (2) is coupled, and comprises an LED emitter and a reflector. The clamp (2) is mounted on a substrate (21) and at least one additional sign element mounted to the substrate, such as an LED backlit sign element.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2006Date of Patent: September 7, 2010Assignee: Cooper Technologies CompanyInventors: Ronald G. Holder, Greg Rhoads
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Patent number: 7748863Abstract: A sign light to illuminate a sign such as a real estate sale sign. The sign light is configured to suspend between the crossarm of a sign post and the sign. The sign light includes a housing, a light source, and sign mounting hardware. The housing allows the sign light to suspend from a crossarm of a sign post. The housing includes an internal compartment. The light source is located within the internal compartment of the housing. The sign mounting hardware is directly coupled to the housing to provide a mounting location for a sign to hang from the mounting hardware. The housing and mounting hardware facilitate suspending the sign light between the crossarm of the sign post and the sign.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2006Date of Patent: July 6, 2010Inventors: Jeffrey T. Holman, W. Shane Willard
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Patent number: 7751664Abstract: A door handle apparatus for a vehicle, opening and closing a vehicle door, the door handle apparatus includes an informing portion for visually informing a state of the vehicle door, including a locking/unlocking state thereof, to a user by a decorative light, which is a visible light, an operation detecting portion for optically detecting an active-direct operation to the door handle apparatus by the user based on changes in an detection light, and an optical waveguide for transmitting the decorative light and the detection light, which is inputted from a first end portion of the optical waveguide, to a second end portion of the optical waveguide, the optical waveguide functioning as the informing portion by leaking the decorative light on a transmission path so as to be outwardly emitted and as the operation detecting portion by outputting the detection light from the second end portion of the optical waveguide.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2009Date of Patent: July 6, 2010Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Kiyokazu Ieda, Yuichi Murakami, Hiroki Okada
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Patent number: 7722237Abstract: A self-contained illuminating device for mounting on or in a closed container for illuminating both the enclosed space of the container and an area of the device which has an insignia or graphic imposed thereon, e.g. for advertising purposes. The device has a shell made of a translucent material and a miniature light source. The shell is adapted to function as an optical waveguide for propagating light emitted by the light source down the shell while simultaneously illuminating surfaces of the shell bearing the advertisement. Additionally, the shell may include a light scattering element for distributing light at a periphery of the shell. The illuminating device comprises a circuitry, including a position-sensitive switch, e.g. a tilt switch, for activating the light source dependent on the position of the device.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2006Date of Patent: May 25, 2010Assignee: Lumincity Inc.Inventors: David Alan Watson, Linda Lee Pond, Rhonda Renee Puckett
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Publication number: 20100118284Abstract: A light integrator for a display device is provided. The light integrator may include a first light tunnel configured to receive a light beam, increase the uniformity of the light distribution in the light beam, and output the light beam, the first light tunnel having a first optical axis. The light integrator may further include a redirection component configured to receive the light beam from the first light tunnel and redirect the light beam to a second light tunnel configured to further increase the uniformity of the light distribution in the light beam and transmit the light beam to downstream optical components, the second light tunnel having a second optical axis forming an angle less than 180 degrees and non-perpendicular with the first optical axis.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 13, 2009Publication date: May 13, 2010Inventors: Ronald Ferguson, David Kerry Kiser
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Publication number: 20100118561Abstract: A transformer is disclosed. The transformer includes a first pin, a second pin, a first side winding, a second side winding, and a jump pin. The second side winding is coupled to the first pin and the second pin. The first pin is between the jump pin and the second pin. The jump pin is coupled to the second pin inside the transformer.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 3, 2009Publication date: May 13, 2010Inventors: Ming-Yen Wu, Ching-Chang Hsieh, Ming-Feng Liu
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Patent number: 7703960Abstract: A light for motor vehicles includes a rod-shaped optical waveguide having at least two optical waveguide arms arranged behind one another in their longitudinal direction, and between which at least one light source is arranged whose light can be coupled on a front side of the light into the optical waveguide arms and can be emitted transversely to their longitudinal direction by way of a light exit surface situated opposite a reflecting surface. In a central area between the optical waveguide arms, a row of more than two light sources is aligned in the longitudinal direction of the optical waveguide arrangement. The light of two outer light sources can be coupled into the respective front sides of the adjacent optical waveguide arms, and the light of at least one light source situated in-between the two outer light sources can be emitted directly in the direction of the light exit surface.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2008Date of Patent: April 27, 2010Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke AktiengesellschaftInventors: Carsten Befelein, Martin Enders
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Patent number: 7703941Abstract: An expandable LED module for arbitrary display assembly, comprises: a print circuit board, used to carry the following devices; at least a light emitting diode, disposed on said print circuit board; a first connecting device, disposed on one side of said print circuit board and coupled to said light emitting diode; and a second connecting device, disposed on the other side of said print circuit board, coupled to said light emitting diode, and capable of interconnecting with said first connecting device, wherein said first connecting device and second connecting device can be utilized to expand said LED modules to accomplish any assembly indicating figures, words, numbers, or symbols.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2008Date of Patent: April 27, 2010Inventor: Ching Chuan Lee
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Patent number: 7699507Abstract: An optical signaling apparatus for use in highways or roadways (2), particularly in low visibility conditions, wherein a roadway (2) comprises at least one traffic bearing surface (S) with at least one edgeline (3). The apparatus comprises light-emitting means (4) for emitting at least one laser beam (5) and support means (6) designed to be arranged along the roadway (2) for supporting the light-emitting means (4). The apparatus also includes optical means (7) arranged along the roadway (2) for interacting with the beam (5) in such a manner as to selectively conform and project it either in a first direction (D1) which is incident on at least one edgeline (3) to interact therewith, or in a second direction (D2) substantially parallel to the traffic bearing surface (S) to define a substantially continuous optical path that can be viewed by the users, or even in both such directions (D1, D2).Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2005Date of Patent: April 20, 2010Assignee: Astron Fiamm Safety S.p.A.Inventors: Thomas Bleiner, Bruno Dussert-Vidalet
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Patent number: 7690828Abstract: An illumination device comprising an LED (14) mounted on a rear of a PCB (12), and a light pipe (16) to direct light from the LED through an aperture (18) in the PCB to illuminate a legend (10) on the front of the PCB, the light pipe diffusing the light so as to prevent uneven illumination of the legend.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2008Date of Patent: April 6, 2010Assignee: Pace PLCInventors: Lyndon Smith, Colin Fuller
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Publication number: 20100066254Abstract: One embodiment of the invention proposes a light-emitting device comprising a radiation source for the emission of a radiation having at least a first wavelength, and an elongated, curved light-guiding body, into which the radiation emitted by the radiation source is coupled and which couples out light at an angle with respect to its longitudinal axis on account of the coupled-in radiation having the first wavelength.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 14, 2007Publication date: March 18, 2010Inventors: Hubert Ott, Alfred Lell, Uwe Strauss, Volker Haerle, Norbert Stath
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Patent number: 7672550Abstract: A coherent light source includes a plurality of light emitting points arranged in one-dimensional array. A beam shaping unit shapes a light beam so that a diameter of a light emitted from the coherent light source in a direction perpendicular to a direction of the light emitting point array is larger than a diameter in the direction of the light emitting point array, and an intensity distribution of the light emitted from each of the light emitting points is uniform. A magnification of a focusing optical system is set such that a light emitted from the beam shaping unit is coupled to an optical fiber based on a maximum diameter of the light emitted from the beam shaping unit.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2008Date of Patent: March 2, 2010Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric CorporationInventors: Rena Murase, Yoko Inoue, Tomohiro Sasagawa
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Patent number: 7670022Abstract: A floor mat system that includes a mat having a decoratively shaped first portion that allows light to transmit therethrough and is surrounded by a second portion that does not allow light to transmit therethrough. A light source is positioned beneath at least the first portion of the mat. When activated, the light source shines through the first portion and thereby illuminates and draws attention to the decorative image. The light source is coated in a polycarbonate resin film to protect and strengthen the same against damage as people walk over the mat. A non-transparent coating may be applied to selective regions of the protective film to create the same decorative transparent image therein and to thereby allow light to only be emitted from a particular region of the light source. The mat may be made from a flow-through material, a non-flow-through material with a gripping upper surface and wells; or a combination of flow-through and non-flow-through material.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2006Date of Patent: March 2, 2010Assignee: R&L Marketing & Sales, Inc.Inventors: Ronald N. Kessler, Daniel A Kessler, David M. Neill
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Publication number: 20100046249Abstract: An optic film includes a body and a condensation layer. The body is formed by stacking a plurality of substrates made of different materials. By means of the different physical characteristics of the different materials, the optic film realizes excellent optic performance. Also provided is a backlight module using the optic film.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 19, 2008Publication date: February 25, 2010Inventors: Chien-Chin Mai, Jui-Tang Yin, Yeong-Feng Wang
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Patent number: 7665237Abstract: An illuminable sign (20) has a base (22); a trough (24) having a configuration C formed in the base (22); a light dispensing medium (26) having the configuration C fitted in the trough (24) and including a pair of light-entering ports (28, 30); a light generator (32) fixed in operative relation between the pair of light-entering ports (28, 30), the light generator (32) including at least one light source (34); and a cover (36) fitted to the base.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2008Date of Patent: February 23, 2010Assignee: Osram Sylvania Inc.Inventors: Michael J. Swantner, Douglas G. Seymour
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Patent number: 7665874Abstract: An information display device illuminates a light pipe, and includes a controller to regulate the power levels delivered to a light source, thereby regulating the amount of light delivered to the light pipe. Alternatively, the information display device delivers visual data, including alpha-numeric characters, predetermined images, or a controlled phasing. The information display device may be utilized to illuminate information associated with the structure. The illumination system provides the ability to phase between different colors, as well as blended colors. Accordingly, an information display device phases between varying colors, and may blend colors to create color schemes. The illumination system includes a control module disposed within the structure to control device parameters.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2007Date of Patent: February 23, 2010Inventors: Thomas J. Chadwell, Michael T. Romanyszyn, John Vira
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Patent number: 7661862Abstract: A backlight apparatus for directing light toward a display panel and the resulting display device comprises an elongated illuminator that is disposed to direct light towards the display panel and a light diffusing element for uniformizing the light redirected from the two or more elongated illuminators to provide backlight illumination. Such an apparatus provides a more even light distribution to the display.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2007Date of Patent: February 16, 2010Assignee: SKC Haas Display Films Co., Ltd.Inventors: Junwon Lee, Marek W. Kowarz, Peter T. Aylward, Qi Hong, Randall H. Wilson
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Patent number: 7658519Abstract: A display device includes a first light source for emitting first light in blue, a second light source for emitting second light, and a color filter. The filter has a translucent sheet, a first printed area part for passing the first light to provide a first display excluding an overlapped portion of the first display and a second display and preventing the second light from passing therethrough, a second printed area part for passing the second light to provide the second display excluding the overlapped portion and preventing the first light from passing therethrough, a third printed area part for dimming and passing the first and second lights to provide the overlapped portion, a background printed area part for preventing the first and second lights from passing therethrough, and a white light converting part for the first light passing therethrough into white light.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2007Date of Patent: February 9, 2010Assignee: Calsonic Kansei CorporationInventors: Chikara Mita, Shigeru Egami
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Patent number: 7658529Abstract: A surface light source device which illuminates a transmission-type liquid crystal display unit from the back surface includes P×Q surface light source units with individually controlled light sources. Each of the light sources includes a plurality of light-emitting element units. Each of the light-emitting element units includes at least one red light-emitting element that emits red light, at least one green light-emitting element that emits green light, and at least one blue light-emitting element that emits blue light. The center of mass of a luminance profile based on each of a plurality of red light-emitting elements, a plurality of green light-emitting elements, and a plurality of blue light-emitting elements in each surface light source unit substantially coincides with the center of mass of the surface light source unit.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2007Date of Patent: February 9, 2010Assignee: Sony CorporationInventors: Tomio Aoki, Masatake Hayashi, Shozo Masuda, Tadashi Morimoto
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Patent number: 7659675Abstract: The light sources for illuminating the stope support at a longwall face are operated at low voltage, connected to the control network device, for low voltage supply of the system controllers. LEDs are particularly suitable as light sources. Measures for avoiding an impairment of the function of the system controllers are disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2004Date of Patent: February 9, 2010Assignee: Tiefenbach Control Systems GmbHInventor: Willi Kussel