With Wearing Apparel Or Body Support Patents (Class 362/570)
  • Patent number: 11510469
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a storage a with lighting function, including an upper cover, a lamp panel, and a see-through bag body. A battery is movably disposed inside the upper cover, a rope is disposed on both sides of the upper cover, a first middle cover and a second middle cover are movably disposed on an outer side of the upper cover, a lower cover is fixedly disposed on a bottom of the upper cover, the lamp panel is fixedly disposed between the lower cover and the upper cover, the see-through bag body is disposed on a lower side of the lamp panel, one end of the see-through bag body is disposed in the first middle cove and the second middle cover, a see-through bag bottom is fixedly disposed on a bottom the see-through bag body, and a base is fixedly disposed on a bottom of the see-through bag bottom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2022
    Inventor: Hangzhou Tan
  • Patent number: 9702534
    Abstract: An illumination system comprises a single mounting bracket that fits across the front of a safety helmet and terminates on each end in a holding fixture that secures a flashlight in a removable arrangement. The mounting bracket is configured such that the pair of flashlights will be positioned on either side of, and against, the sides of the helmet. The mounting bracket includes one or more centrally-located apertures that accommodate pre-existing fasteners used, for example, to attach a shield to the front of the helmet (the shield carrying insignia identifying the emergency organization).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2017
    Assignee: Light Shield Products LLC
    Inventor: Stephen Lee Brion
  • Patent number: 9024774
    Abstract: An emergency lighting and evacuation guidance system includes an emergency lighting and evacuation guidance arrangement which is electrically connected to a commercial electricity supply, and a complementary green power assembly which is electrically connected to the emergency lighting and evacuation guidance arrangement. When the commercial electric supply is cut off during an emergency, the power generated by the complementary green power assembly is supplied to the emergency lighting and evacuation guidance arrangement, whereby the emergency lighting and evacuation guidance arrangement guides people to evacuate and escape during the emergency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: Shenzhen Guangan Fire-Fighting & Decoration Engineering Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shaobin Li, Wenguang Luo, Wenhui Hua
  • Patent number: 8992038
    Abstract: An illumination system is housed in a footwear, the footwear including a sole and an upper. A structure and a liner form inner layers connected to the upper. A plurality of illumination sources are electrically connected to a power source and positioned adjacent to the liner. The illumination sources are positioned between the liner and upper. A batting is designed to be light diffusing, while the upper has a light diffusing section. The light emitted from the plurality of illumination sources is diffused as it passes through the batting and light diffusing section. Aesthetic designs can be creating, either through the arrangement of the plurality of illumination sources or the provision of a light impermeable section on the upper. The light impermeable section, in combination with the light diffusion section, can be used to form or outline an aesthetic design. The result is an internally illuminated footwear with diffused light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Inventor: Roy Robert Smith, III
  • Publication number: 20150062959
    Abstract: The invention generally relates to an illuminated sports system. In certain embodiments, the system includes a device configured to be worn by a user that includes a first portion having a first illumination source and a second portion having first control circuitry configured to at least transmit or receive data associated with the device. The system also includes a movable piece of sports equipment including a second illumination source and second control circuitry configured to at least transmit or receive data associated with the movable piece of sports equipment. At least one of the first and second control circuitries is configured to sense when the user possesses the movable piece of sports equipment and modify an emission of at least one of the first and second illumination sources based on the user possessing the movable piece of sports equipment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2014
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Inventor: Daniel John Wilson
  • Patent number: 8926154
    Abstract: A flexible light transmitting device, comprising a printable layer, a backing layer, and a light-emitting diode strip disposed between the printable layer and the backing layer. The printable layer is translucent to permit transmission of light from the light-emitting diodes through the printable layer when the light-emitting diodes are activated; however, the LED strip remains hidden between the layers. The printable layer is adapted to receive printed indicia by way of thermal printing process. The backing layer is substantially opaque comprises a durable nylon webbing or polypropylene material. The embedded LED strip comprises an elongated flexible casing containing spaced apart light-emitting diodes, one or more light interrupting spacers, and at least one ribbon wire extending through the casing and electrically coupling said light-emitting diodes. A fastener is disposed through the printable layer, the strip, and the backing layer to secure the strip to prevent breakage or dislodgment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Dog-E-Glow, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory Brauser, Brandon Bal
  • Patent number: 8888346
    Abstract: An illuminating shoelace device includes an illuminating unit and a light guide fiber. The casing of the illuminating unit includes a first through hole and a first opening, and the illuminating unit includes the first light emitting element therein for emitting light to the first opening. One end of the light guide fiber passes through the first through hole and then is plugged in the first opening to receive the light emitted by the light emitting element. The first through hole and the fastening structure in the first opening can hold the light guide fiber to prevent it from falling out from the opening easily.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Inventor: Shen-Ko Tseng
  • Publication number: 20140218962
    Abstract: There is provided lighted headgear having a head-fitting fitting portion and a brim portion extending forwardly therefrom. A light source is received within a cavity in the brim portion so that the light source is spaced rearwardly from an outboard edge of the brim portion. A light transmissive portion is disposed forwardly of the light source for transmitting light from the light source therethrough and forwardly of the brim portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Waters
  • Patent number: 8789962
    Abstract: A surgical headlight that uses multiple LEDs to produce superior illumination. Heat sinks are used to help dissipate heat produced from the LEDs. The light from the LEDs is directed, using collimizers, into fiber optic cables. The fiber light from the optic cables, using an LED combiner, is then combined and focused on a working area. The LED combiner may include an adjustable lens so that the device's illumination may be focused at multiple focal distances and with varied areas of illumination. The LEDs may be powered by a battery and may comprise one or more red LEDs, one or more blue LEDs, and one or more green LEDs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Assignee: Vikon Surgical, LLC
    Inventor: Austin Crowder
  • Patent number: 8523377
    Abstract: An illuminating assembly for allowing hands free illumination of an area includes a panel which has a first end, a second end, a first lateral edge, a second lateral edge, a top surface and a bottom surface. A wrist coupler is attached to the first end. A finger sleeve is attached to the second end. The finger sleeve is positioned adjacent to the first lateral edge. A light emitter is attached to the wearable light mount. The light emitter is directed away from the first end of the panel. An actuator is operationally coupled to the light emitter. The light emitter is turned on or off when the actuator is actuated. The actuator is attached to the wearable light mount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Inventor: James D. York
  • Patent number: 8517556
    Abstract: Helmet mounted lighting apparatus and method of manufacture. May utilize LED light source and battery power unit designed for mounting for example on a fire-fighting helmet. May couple with helmet or to an ornamental leather shield typically mounted on the front of a fire-fighting helmet. Enables enhanced visual field at night for benefit of the user. Apparatus is made of material suitable for the harsh conditions encountered by fire suppression and emergency personnel and is mounted in such a fashion as to not conflict with the typical physical features of the helmet or shield. The apparatus includes at least one lamp provided at a front side of the casing, a switch part provided remote to or in one side of the casing, a battery or series of batteries provided remotely or in the interior of the casing and optional time-out, power level adjustment, voltage and/or current control circuitry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Inventor: Christian Boulan
  • Publication number: 20130121015
    Abstract: Various wearable bands capable of being illuminated are disclosed. A wearable band includes a band strip defining multiple openings therein, a light source, and multiple optical fibers. Each optical fiber has a first end and a second end, with the first end of each optical fiber operably coupled to the light source. Each optical fiber is configured to transmit light originating from the light source toward the second end. Light transmitted along each optical fiber is visible through a corresponding opening of the wearable band. The openings may be arranged to form at least one letter or symbol, may be arranged along an outline of a decoration on the band strip, may be arranged to fill a region within at least one letter or symbol located on the band strip, and/or may be arranged to enhance and be conformal with a graphical design located on the band strip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2012
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Applicant: Ennovation Studios, LLC
    Inventor: Ennovation Studios, LLC
  • Patent number: 8419204
    Abstract: A ring has a sphere on a band and is worn on the finger of a sports fan. An electrical circuit includes a power source and two LEDs. An antenna allows the ring circuit to receive signals sent wirelessly. A three position switch changes the settings of the circuit. When the switch is in a middle position, the ring is disconnected from its power source. When the switch is in one or the other of the other two positions, the wireless receiver components can receive signals from a transmitting unit. The ring is preferably worn by a sports fan at a sporting event, and upon switching the switch to the position associated with the team the fan supports, the ring can receive signals. Signals will be transmitted from the transmitting unit, and will cause the ring to flash the LED. Rings worn by fans flash in support of the fans' team.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Inventor: Grover M. Hermann, II
  • Patent number: 8322876
    Abstract: The invention discloses an electric power generating device applied on a wearable object. The electric power generating device comprises a transmission unit, a magnetic permeable member, a magnetic member, a core, and a coil. The transmission unit transfers an external force received by the wearable object to a driving force. The core is configured in the wearable object and has a first end. The coil is coupled to the core. The magnetic permeable member is configured in the wearable object to receive the driving force and move by the driving force. The magnetic member is configured on the magnetic permeable member and near the first end. When the magnetic permeable member pushes the magnetic member to move relatively to the first end through the driving force, the magnetic flux in the core varies to lead the coil to induce an induced electromotive force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Inventors: Shen-Ko Tseng, Juinne-Ching Liao
  • Patent number: 8282235
    Abstract: A lighted workbag or backpack having a positionable light source configured so as to provide significant illumination into the interior portion of the workbag or an external work area or the path in front of the backpack. The light source having a gooseneck configuration is mounted in a column or pouch positioned in the back of the backpack that allows the light to extend over the shoulder of a user wearing the backpack so as to illuminate the area in front of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Inventor: James Gilligan
  • Patent number: 8177384
    Abstract: Helmet mounted lighting apparatus and method of manufacture. May utilize LED light source and battery power unit designed for mounting for example on a fire fighting helmet. May couple with helmet or to an ornamental leather shield typically mounted on the front of a fire fighting helmet. Enables enhanced visual field at night for benefit of the user. Apparatus is made of material suitable for the harsh conditions encountered by fire suppression and emergency personnel and is mounted in such a fashion as to not conflict with the typical physical features of the helmet or shield. The apparatus includes at least one lamp provided at a front side of the casing, a switch part provided remote to or in one side of the casing, a battery or series of batteries provided remotely or in the interior of the casing and optional time-out, power level adjustment, voltage and/or current control circuitry. May be secured using any method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Inventor: Christian Boulan
  • Patent number: 8070307
    Abstract: A light-emitting warning device of a safety helmet, including a helmet main body, a light guide element and a light source control mechanism. An annular locating groove and a receiving cavity are formed on an outer face of the helmet main body. Two end sections of the locating groove communicate with the receiving cavity via two through holes formed in the helmet main body. An elongated flexible strip body is received in the locating groove. Two end sections of the light guide element extend through the through holes into the receiving cavity to connect with the light source control mechanism. The light source control mechanism projects light into the light guide element, and emits as a lighting ring along the periphery of the helmet main body. The light guide element communicates with an interior of the helmet main body to avoid dropping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Inventor: Chang-Hsien Ho
  • Patent number: 7942543
    Abstract: A light emitting head accessory includes an array of light emission devices positioned on a front surface of a strip of flexible material, a logic circuit, a power source, and an input device. The logic circuit is connected to the array of light emission devices and programmed to create arrangements on the array of light emission devices by illuminating a plurality of light emission devices in the array of light emission devices. The power source provides power to the array of light emission devices and the logic circuit. The input device is connected to and instructs the logic circuit to display various arrangements on the array of light emission devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Inventor: Michael Larry Ritter
  • Patent number: 7905620
    Abstract: An electrical power system is described, including a distribution system configured to supply electrical power to a bicycle helmet system and a power source configured to supply power to one or more elements associated with the bicycle helmet system using the distribution system, the power source being housed within a protective element of a bicycle helmet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: Shabaka, LLC
    Inventor: Kerry Harris
  • Patent number: 7874693
    Abstract: An illuminated cap in one embodiment includes a crown having a visor and a nonrigid arc member around a bottom edge of an inner surface of the crown. A light source assembly includes a circuit board, light emitting members connected to the circuit board, a switch connected to the circuit board, and at least one cell on the circuit board. A transparent member on a rear strap of the crown has a groove, with the light emitting members mounted therein. The transparent member is lit when the light emitting members are activated. A translucent member on an outer surface of the transparent member includes openings arranged as a predetermined shape. Emitted light is adapted to pass through the transparent member and to further pass through the openings to show the predetermined shape as a warning to rear incoming vehicles in the night.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: Chuan Cheng Hat Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Sung-Yie Liao
  • Publication number: 20100277945
    Abstract: An article forming pet gear appointed to be worn by a pet, including pet coats, jackets, shirts or sweaters, has a plurality of interchangeable attachments appointed to modify the article's look, feel and function. The article comprises a proximal end, distal end and a central section having at least one connection means appointed to receive the interchangeable attachment. The interchangeable attachment includes a top wall having a show surface and a back wall having a securing member adapted to engage with the connection means of the article for removably attaching the interchangeable attachment to the article. The interchangeable attachments have a plethora of designs and may include LED, fiber optic and/or reflective properties to provide aesthetic appeal, the ability to design one's own accessory, enhanced visibility, and/or increased safety of the pet during nighttime or dusk hours.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2010
    Publication date: November 4, 2010
    Inventor: Marni Markell Hurwitz
  • Publication number: 20100277944
    Abstract: An interchangeable attachment modifies the look and feel of an article, such as a hair accessory (head bands, barrettes), hand bag and clutch, belt, and cap. The article comprises a proximal end, distal end and a central section having at least one connection means appointed to receive the interchangeable attachment. The interchangeable attachment includes a top wall having a show surface and a back wall having a securing member adapted to engage with the connection means of the article for removably attaching the interchangeable attachment to the article. In one embodiment the interchangeable attachment is provided as a plurality of appliqué, swatch or patch attachments. In another embodiment, the interchangeable attachment is provided as an elongated attachment portion appointed to substantially cover the central section of the article. The interchangeable attachments have a plethora of designs and may include LED, fiber optic and/or reflective properties.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2009
    Publication date: November 4, 2010
    Inventor: Marni Markell Hurwitz
  • Publication number: 20100277943
    Abstract: An article, including pet collars and leashes, belts, bags and backpacks, has an interchangeable attachment. The article comprises a proximal end, distal end and a central section having at least one connection means appointed to receive the interchangeable attachment. The interchangeable attachment includes a top wall having a show surface and a back wall having a securing member adapted to engage with the connection means of the article for removably attaching the interchangeable attachment to the article. In one embodiment the interchangeable attachments are provided as button-type attachments. In another embodiment, the interchangeable attachment is provided as an elongated attachment portion appointed to substantially cover the central section of the article. The interchangeable attachments have a plethora of designs and may include LED, fiber optic and/or reflective properties to provide aesthetic appeal, enhanced visibility, and increased safety for pedestrians during nighttime or dusk hours.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2009
    Publication date: November 4, 2010
    Inventor: Marni Markell Hurwitz
  • Patent number: 7810944
    Abstract: An illuminated cap includes a crown having a visor, with a folding member on an inner surface of the crown proximate an ear portion thereof. A light source assembly includes a circuit board, two light emitting members connected to the circuit board, a switch on the circuit board, and at least one cell mounted on the circuit board. A receiving assembly, with the circuit board mounted therein, is fastened on the crown by the folding member which is adapted to separate the head of a wearer from the receiving assembly. A flexible optical fiber strand is disposed on the visor and/or along at least one stitch of the crown and has both ends electrically connected to the light emitting members respectively. The light emitting members (e.g., LEDs) are adapted to light or flash for warning surrounding persons or vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Chuan Cheng Hat Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Sung-Yie Liao
  • Patent number: 7794101
    Abstract: An apparatus and system for incorporating a resilient source of high-visibility illumination into an article of footwear. A biomechanically-sound and hermetically-sealed electronics module contains a microprocessor, power source, and at least one light source, such as a light emitting diode, or LED. The LEDs are not externally visible, but rather illuminate a diffusive substrate that is incorporated into the construction of the footwear, allowing for visibility from substantially every angle above the bottom of the sole. A control panel enables the wearer to turn the power on and off, change colors, rotate through transition effects, and the like. A charging pad allows for the wireless and contact-less recharging of the onboard power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Inventors: Matthias Joseph Galica, Elliott Temkin
  • Patent number: 7758200
    Abstract: A responsive light emitting diode (LED) module unit includes a control unit (1), a light emitting device (2), and a pouch (5) for enclosing said control unit (1) and said light emitting device (2) therein. Said control unit (1) has rigid plastic housing (15) encloses a printed circuit board (PCB) (11), a battery (12), a ball-rolling switch (14), and an integrated circuit (IC) processor (16). Said light emitting device (2) has a membrane circuit (3), and a plurality of LEDs (4) to emit light. Said pouch (5) is composed of a soft polycarbonate or polyvinyl chloride base (51) and a soft polycarbonate or polyvinyl chloride cover (52) with surface decoration patterns as their perimeters sealed by high frequency wave for receiving said control unit (1) and said LEDs (4), further the pouch is coupled to an upper surface of an object (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Inventor: Wei-Jei Tuan
  • Patent number: 7731404
    Abstract: An illuminator (10) for a plurality of optical fibers (12). The illuminator (10) comprises a housing (14) that can be formed of two housing halves, (14a) and (14b) of a suitable material such as an opaque ABS plastic. First and second compartments (16, 18) are provided in the housing. A suitable battery (20) is contained within the first compartment (16) and a light source (22) is contained in the second compartment (18). The light source (22) is preferably a LED. The light source (22) is mounted upon a printed circuit board (24), which, in turn, can be mounted upon a heatsink (24a), for example, a black, anodized aluminum. An optical coupler (26) is associated with the light source (22) and comprises a central body (28) arrayed along a light source axis (30) and has a proximal end (32) with a lens (34) adjacent the light source (22) and a distal end (36). At least one lateral projection (38) (preferably, two) is formed on the central body (28), the lateral projection (38) including mounting means (40).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: Osram Sylvania Inc
    Inventor: Charles M. Coushaine
  • Patent number: 7717583
    Abstract: A responsive luminous pad includes a luminous module (10), and a pad (20) encloses the module (10) to a middle portion inside the pad (20). The module (10) includes a harden plastics (15) further encloses a printed circuit board (PCB) (11), a battery (12), light emitting diode (LED) (13), rolling ball switch (14), and integrated circuit (IC) processor (16) inside the plastics. Said pad (20) includes a waterproof first sheet (22B), and a waterproof second sheet (22A) printed with patterns. Rims of both first, second sheets (22B, 22A) are heat weld to form a cavity in between for receiving the luminous module (10) a widened middle portion inside the pad, and the rims further coupled to a surface of a textile (30).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Inventor: Wei-Jei Tuan
  • Patent number: 7717584
    Abstract: A waterproof vibrating and twinkling LED backlighting device includes: a main body (1), said main body (1) comprises a light-tight, hollow and polymorphous frame (11), and a transparent cover plate (12) installed on top of said frame (11); a circuit element (3), said circuit element (3) comprises a circuit board (31) and a circuit-control element (32) electrically connects with the circuit board (31); at least one light emitting device (4) which electrically connects with the circuit board (31), and its light emitting angle is parallel with the circuit board (31), said light emitting device (4) comprises: at least one Light-Emitting Diode (LED) (41) mounted on the side of the surface of said circuit board (31) and connected electrically with which; a power supply (5); a ball-rolling switch (6) electrically connects with the circuit element (3); and a transparent encapsulation body (2) filled inside the main body (1) to cover the circuit element (3), power supply (5) and ball-rolling switch (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Inventor: Wei-Jei Tuan
  • Patent number: 7667586
    Abstract: A multi-functional alert safety helmet assembly, comprises a safety helmet having a base plate, the base plate being installed with a wireless receiving module and a control unit; the safety helmet further installed with a display panel and indication lamps which are at the base plate; and the display panel is formed by light emitting elements; two sides of the display panel having the indication lamps; the light emitting elements flashing sequentially to present textures or patterns. The base plate is connected to the display panel and indication lamps for displaying signals from the wireless transmitting module; the flash of the indication lamps are controlled by the control unit; and display of the light emitting lights of the display panel; when turning right, right indication lamps will flash and when turning left, the left indication lamps will flash.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Inventor: Wen-Lung Cheng
  • Patent number: 7645050
    Abstract: A user-wearable illumination assembly comprises a mounting fixture that is adapted to be coupled to a user-wearable device, such as eyeglasses, goggles, face masks, helmets, or other devices. A light guide has a first end that can be coupled to a light source, and a second end coupled to a lens housing that is in turn coupled to the mounting fixture. An optical lens in the lens housing cooperates with the light guide to project light from the light source through the lens. In one embodiment, the lens has a substantially spherical surface facing the second end of the light guide and an aspheric surface facing away from the second end of the light guide. In another embodiment, the mounting fixture comprises articulating portions to permit independent or simultaneous adjustment of the lens housing to direct projected light in a desired direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignee: Kerr Corporation
    Inventors: Brian L. Wilt, Patrick Shipley, Frederick N. Bushroe, Kevin Garcia
  • Publication number: 20090193689
    Abstract: An apparatus and system for incorporating a resilient source of high-visibility illumination into an article of footwear. A biomechanically-sound and hermetically-sealed electronics module contains a microprocessor, power source, and at least one light source, such as a light emitting diode, or LED. The LEDs are not externally visible, but rather illuminate a diffusive substrate that is incorporated into the construction of the footwear, allowing for visibility from substantially every angle above the bottom of the sole. A control panel enables the wearer to turn the power on and off, change colors, rotate through transition effects, and the like. A charging pad allows for the wireless and contact-less recharging of the onboard power source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2008
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Inventors: Matthias Galica, Elliott Temkin
  • Patent number: 7556412
    Abstract: A lighting device is provided that includes a housing containing a light emitting portion of a light emitting diode and a terminus of a fiber optic bundle such that light emission from the light emitting diode is communicated along the optical fibers. The fiber optic bundle has a flattened distal portion with a cross-sectional array of layers of optical fibers. A diffusing layer is attached to the fiber optic bundle overlying the flattened distal portion. The lighting device, upon being overlaid with a graphic and surrounded by a frame through which the graphic is visible, provides a vehicle lighting assembly securable to a vehicle substrate. The vehicle light assembly is particularly well suited for vehicle exterior badging, kick plates and vanity lighting within the vehicle passenger compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Inventor: Vernon Guillermo
  • Patent number: 7473003
    Abstract: Emergency lighting for an aircraft employs a photoluminescent substrate that is activated by exposure to light wherein the substrate has portions with different light emitting characteristics whereby, in the absence of activating light, a first substrate portion provides a higher light output than a second substrate portion for an initial period after which the second substrate portion provides a higher light output than the first substrate portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Assignee: Saf-T-Glo Limited
    Inventors: Peter David Stokes, Sean Patrick O'Kell
  • Patent number: 7314300
    Abstract: A kit, or family, of interchangeable headlamp parts for a headlight system is provided that enables illuminated light spots of different sizes and/or different light distribution styles to be produced. The headlight system includes a headband, a headlamp mounted on the headband, a light source, and a fiber optic cable having one end connected to the light source and an opposite end tip connected to the headlamp. According to one embodiment, an upper assembly of the headlamp includes a cable mounting module that is moveable relative to a core module and that permits the distance between the end tip of the fiber optic cable and a convergent lens to be adjusted to permit spots with different light distributions to be produced. A method of adjusting the light projected by a headlight system is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2008
    Assignee: Sunoptic Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Justin Dorr, Johannes M. Blum, James D. Hunter
  • Patent number: 7278758
    Abstract: A garment is illuminated with flashing lights in response to movement by a wearer and is protected against water damage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2007
    Assignee: E.S. Originals, Inc.
    Inventor: Ezra Esses
  • Patent number: 7270456
    Abstract: An illuminated hair ornament with fiber optics emitting lines of light and increased points of light is provided, where the illuminated ornament has a housing, a power supply coupled to the housing, a light source electrically coupled to the power supply, at least one fiber optic positioned to receive light from the light source, and includes one end protruding out and away from the housing. In one embodiment a reflective coating may be applied to the end of the fiber optic protruding from the housing, and in another embodiment, the one end protruding out and away from the hosing is cut at an angle to maximize observed brightness of the light. A sealant material may be applied to the fiber optics near the light source to prevent light from escaping from between the fiber optics. Also disclosed is a method for creating patterns of light across a user's hair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Inventors: Christopher C. Bonang, Nancy A. Booher
  • Patent number: 7270438
    Abstract: A backpack with compartments are accessible by fasteners and includes a front panel having padded areas, a middle panel extending in parallel with the front panel and having top and side extensions for joining with the front panel via a first reclosable fastener, a side panel joined with the middle panel at its lower edges, a back panel joined at its top and side edges to the middle panel via a second reclosable fastener, and a bottom panel for joining bottom edges of the front and rear panels along a borderline. A pair of shoulder straps adjustably connects between the top and bottom edges of the front panel. The borderline extends along a curved bottom end of the back panel and carries a glowing cable along the length thereof. The cable is optically connected with an LED, which is energized by a driver/controller through wires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Inventor: Jimmy Chen
  • Patent number: 7255468
    Abstract: An apparatus for illuminating shoes and fashion accessories includes a fiber optic cable, a clasp and a control circuit. The fiber optic cable has a first coupling point and a second coupling point. The clasp has a housing, a retention mechanism, a first connector and a second connector. The first connector is configured to couple to the first coupling point and the second connector is configured to couple to the second coupling point of the fiber optic cable. The control circuit is disposed within the housing and has a power source and at least one illuminating device. The illuminating device is optically coupled to one or both of the first and second connectors in order to illuminate at least a portion of the fiber optic cable with light. At least one of the clasp and the illuminating device is removable to permit interchangeable selectivity of the color of the illuminating light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Inventor: Jonathan Capriola
  • Patent number: 7244045
    Abstract: An illuminated novelty device includes a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs). An elongated light bar can be mounted to each of the LEDs. The light bars have a light receiving end and a light emitting end and are mounted to respective LEDs at the light receiving end. The light bars are formed from a light transmissive material. Conductors extend between and connect the LEDs. The LEDs are spaced from one another along the length of the conductors. The LEDs, the elongated light bars and the conductors define an LED assembly. A power source is operably connected to the LED assembly and a switch is operably connected between the power source and the LED assembly. The power source and switch are maintained in a housing. A light transmissive sheath has the LED assembly fitted, at least in part, within it. The sheath has a first end mounted to the housing and a second free end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2007
    Assignee: Chemical Light, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael L. Schrimmer, Ronald E. Gilley, Ching-Hui Lee
  • Patent number: 7234853
    Abstract: Textile product comprising light guiding fibres (2) consisting of a central core capable of transmitting the light and of an external sheath, in which at least a length portion of said external sheath presents, in respect to the internal core, a refraction index allowing the transmitted light to partially escape from the fibre; cloth article made from the textile product; and a manufacturing method of the textile product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Assignee: Luminex S.p.A.
    Inventor: Marcello Givoletti
  • Patent number: 7220037
    Abstract: The present invention provides an article of clothing with a backlit display that emits light through a mask that allows signage to be placed on the garment. The garment has attached to its surface by clips or snaps a display module having a substantially flat envelope enclosing an electro-luminescent lamp and a mask. The electro-luminescent lamp layer is energized by an electrical signal from an control electronic circuit that passes its signal through the clips or snaps. The electro-luminescent layer may be divided into segments where each segment functions as an independent electro-luminescent layer receiving a potential having a pattern of illumination that is determined by the control electronic circuit. The invention can be used in safety apparel where the resulting pattern is a bright surface having the shape of a caution warning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Assignee: Lightsport Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen J. Petre
  • Patent number: 7213935
    Abstract: A shining personal adornment includes a hollow body pervious to light, a glowing unit, a power supplying unit and two connecting members. The shining unit is held in the hollow body, and it includes a control element and several light emitting elements electrically connected to the control circuit element. The power supplying unit has a switch for controlling the flow of electricity therefrom. The connecting members are joined to respective ones of two ends of the hollow main body. Further, the connecting members are joined to respective ones of the two ends of the power supplying unit such that the glowing unit is electrically connected to the power supplying unit, wherein the whole shining personal adornment has a substantially circular shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Inventor: Ching-Hui Lee
  • Patent number: 7128442
    Abstract: An illumination unit includes a thin and flexible substrate and flexible electrical tracks formed on the flexible substrate. A number of solid-state light generating sources are arranged on the flexible substrate along the electrical tracks and are electrically connected to the electrical tracks. A flexible and optically transparent encapsulant is provided to encapsulate the light generating sources on the substrate such that the illumination unit is both thin and flexible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Inventors: Kian Shin Lee, Janet Bee Yin Chua, Wen Ya Ou, Yew Cheong Kuan
  • Patent number: 7104668
    Abstract: A shining personal adornment includes a hollow body, a shining unit held in the hollow body, a power supplying unit, a first connecting part joined to one end of the hollow body, a second connecting part joined to other end of the hollow body for separable connection with one end of the power supplying unit; the first connecting part has a threaded portion, and holds a conducting element therein, which is connected to the shining unit; the power supplying unit contains batteries therein, and has a threaded portion; the threaded portion of the first connecting part is threadedly engaged with the threaded portion of the power supplying unit; the conducting element will not be connected to the batteries, and the shining unit will not be powered if the threaded portions are loosely connected; the conducting element will be electrically connected to the batteries when both the threaded portions are tightly connected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Inventor: Ching-Hui Lee
  • Patent number: 7063429
    Abstract: An electronic apparatus has a light-emitting element and a light-emitting portion. An output light from the light-emitting element is guided by a frame-like member having serrations and radiated toward the light-emitting portion. This causes the light-emitting portion to emit light reliably, and improves the decorativeness of the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2006
    Assignee: Casio Computer Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tadao Hirano, Masato Ueno, Shinichi Tanaka
  • Patent number: 6970090
    Abstract: A pet tracking collar comprises a length of clear flexible tubing having a fastener adapted to fasten around the pet. Hermetically sealed within the tubing is an electrical ribbon cable extending through the length thereof. A plurality of light-emitting diodes, visible through the clear tubing, are wirelessly connected at spaced intervals to the cable. The tracking collar also includes an antenna within the electrical ribbon cable, and a radio transmitter secured to the cable adapted to transmit a radio frequency signal. The cable is secured within the flexible tubing such that strain along the length of the tubing is not transmitted to the cable therein. The collar's battery compartment has sufficient clearance between the battery and walls of the battery compartment to shed water after the collar is wetted. A radio frequency signal receiver determines direction or distance of the collar with respect to the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Inventor: Michael Sciarra
  • Patent number: 6908206
    Abstract: Illuminated items including a chemiluminescent article. The present invention is directed to various clothing, ornamental and useful items lighted by a chemiluminescent article, preferably a light stick that is activated. Clothing items illuminated by the chemiluminescent article include a hat, cap, shirt, pants, collar, cuff, sleeve, pocket, trim, scarf, boa, sandal and shoe. Ornamental and useful items illuminated by the chemiluminescent article include a holiday ornament, jewelry, greeting card, aquarium figure, lighter, egg, basket, flag, umbrella, guitar pick, drumstick, slide viewer, bottle topper and candy wrapper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Inventor: Fred J. Pinciaro
  • Patent number: 6902290
    Abstract: A finger-mounted light system includes an (LED) mounted in a casing adapted for strapping to one hand and operated by a light output control knob. A housing that includes a power source (e.g., battery) is strapped to the wrist and the LED casing is strapped to a finger, such that light emitted from the LED may be adjusted. A display is included on the housing for displaying the battery level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: R & H Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Harry L. Watts, Ronald E. Lisec
  • Patent number: 6902289
    Abstract: An illuminated hand cover assembly (100) is provided. The assembly includes a hand cover (102) including an index finger portion (112a), the index finger portion adapted to cover at least a portion of a user's index finger (132). A first light source (114) having a first light emission area (118) coupled to a lateral side of the index finger portion such that the first light emission area is disposed adjacent a lateral side of a middle phalanx bone (138) of the index finger. The hand cover may include a thumb portion (112b) adapted to cover at least a portion of the user's thumb (142). A second light source (116) having a second light emission area (120) may be coupled to the thumb portion such that the second light emission area is disposed adjacent a lateral side of a proximal phalanx bone (148) of the thumb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: 4th Day Enterprises, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Paul N. Smith