With Static Structure (e.g., Building Interior, Framework Of Tent, Wall, Ceiling) Patents (Class 362/576)
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Patent number: 7736014Abstract: The invention provides a lighting apparatus comprising: a) a frame spanning the roof and interior of a building, the frame having a first opening at the building roof and a second opening opposed to the first opening at the building ceiling; b) a skylight at the first opening; c) a reflective lining between the first and second openings; d) a light diffuser at the second opening; and e) at least one artificial light source located between the skylight and the diffuser; where the artificial light source is positioned at the frame periphery.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2008Date of Patent: June 15, 2010Inventor: Jerome O. Blomberg
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Patent number: 7722207Abstract: A baluster lighting assembly and method using illuminated intermediate baluster members in which balusters or pickets can be adjustably spaced along a power cord. A plurality of light sources mounted in each of a plurality of balusters or pickets are electrically connected to a power cable through connector housings mounted in each of the balusters or pickets. Each connector housing includes pierce connectors for penetrating the insulation of the power cable and coming into electrical, non-shorting contact with the power cable's live and ground wires along any selected location of the power cable.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2007Date of Patent: May 25, 2010Assignee: Creative Industries, LLCInventor: Richard G Bennette
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Patent number: 7686491Abstract: Modular panels can be attached to a substratum, e.g. a wall or ceiling, to display an actively lighted star field. Each panel displays a respective subarea of the star field, the panels being attached onto the substratum in edgewise juxtaposed relationship according to the star field. Each panel defines a set of apertures extending through the panel and distributed over the panel according to the panel's respective subarea. On a back face of each panel is a set of light pipes respectively corresponding to the panel's set of apertures, each light pipe being illuminated by a light emitting diode. Panels can include twinkling stars, constant stars, and/or shooting stars, and energization of the corresponding light emitting diodes is constant or varied accordingly.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2006Date of Patent: March 30, 2010Inventor: Chris Isaacson
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Patent number: 7654717Abstract: There is provided an illuminated surface mounted on a base surface. The illuminated surface includes a plurality of transmissive tiles configured to allow light to pass therethrough. Each of the transmissive tiles includes an exterior surface, an attaching surface and a plurality of lateral sides disposed between the exterior and attaching surfaces. The attaching surface is affixable to the base surface. The transmissive tiles are arranged in spaced relation to each other to define a cable channel. The cable channel is defined by opposing lateral sides of adjacent transmissive tiles. A fiber optic cable is in optical communication a light source and receives light therefrom. The fiber optic cable includes a longitudinal axis and a first segment disposed within the cable channel. The first segment is configured to radially radiate light along the longitudinal axis into the lateral sides of the adjacent transmissive tiles.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2007Date of Patent: February 2, 2010Inventor: Michael Trujillo
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Patent number: 7600895Abstract: A light display unit includes a display fixture and a light strand. The display fixture includes an elongated support and a plurality of receptacles coupled to the support. The support defines a chamber. Each of the receptacles defines an aperture. The light strand includes an electrical cord having an end configured to be coupled with an electrical power source. Each of a plurality of bulb groupings is in electrical communication with the electrical cord. The plurality of bulb groupings comprises at least two different combinations of light bulbs. The electrical cord is at least partially housed in the chamber of the support and extends into each of the plurality of receptacle of the display fixture through the apertures of the receptacles such that each of the plurality of bulb groupings is positioned within one of the plurality of receptacles of the support. Light strands, fixtures, and methods provide additional advantages.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2006Date of Patent: October 13, 2009Assignee: Target Brands, Inc.Inventors: Laura L. Hawkins, Donna L. Lein
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Publication number: 20090251919Abstract: Devices, apparatus, systems, and methods of installing LED (light emitting diodes) for glass tiles and glass blocks. The LEDs can be housed in flexible strips having flexible bendable transparent housing sleeves with ends that can interconnect by male and female ends to one another with various types of interconnectors. Each separate sleeve can house up to 33 LEDs in a transparent plastic sleeve. A transparent connector sleeve can be slid over the interconnected ends and heat shrunk in place. The glass tiles can be laid out to uniform joints spacings between the glass tiles of approximately 3/16 of an inch. The LED strips can be placed on a surface layer of transparent grout that has been laid in the joint spacing, followed by a top layer of transparent grout. The transparent grout can be removable grout and include clear Silicon. The LED strips can have peel and stick back layers with adhesive backing that allows mounting to the lower surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2009Publication date: October 8, 2009Applicant: New Horizon Designs, Inc.Inventor: Rachel Teeters
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Patent number: 7559680Abstract: The present invention includes decorative, architectural, and building materials and methods of making these materials, using them or both. The present invention relates to an article of manufacture that includes a light source and a substrate with a plurality of volumes of material, where each volume is capable of transmitting light from one location to a second location on a surface of the substrate. The present invention also relates to an article of manufacture having a substrate with a first surface, and a volume of material contained within the substrate and adapted to transmit light from a first location on the first surface to at least a second location. The present invention also relates to methods of making the articles and to methods of transmitting information.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2007Date of Patent: July 14, 2009Assignee: SensiTile Systems LLCInventor: Abhinand Lath
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Patent number: 7549784Abstract: Devices, apparatus, systems, and methods of installing LED (light emitting diodes) for glass tiles and glass blocks. The LEDs can be housed in flexible strips having flexible bendable transparent housing sleeves with ends that can interconnect by male and female ends to one another with various types of interconnectors. Each separate sleeve can house up to 33 LEDs in a transparent plastic sleeve. A transparent connector sleeve can be slid over the interconnected ends and heat shrunk in place. The glass tiles can be laid out to uniform joints spacings between the glass tiles of approximately 3/16 of an inch. The LED strips can be placed on a surface layer of transparent grout that has been laid in the joint spacing, followed by a top layer of transparent grout. The transparent grout can be removable grout and include clear Silicon. The LED strips can have peel and stick back layers with adhesive backing that allows mounting to the lower surface.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2007Date of Patent: June 23, 2009Assignee: New Horizon Designs, Inc.Inventor: Rachel Teeters
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Patent number: 7547128Abstract: The present invention relates to an article of manufacture for detecting motion that includes a substrate with a plurality of volumes of material, where each volume is capable of transmitting light from one location on a surface of the substrate to a second location. The present invention also relates to an article of manufacture having a motion detector with a substrate with a first surface, and a volume of material contained within the substrate and adapted to transmit light from a first location on the first surface to at least a second location. The present invention also relates to methods of making the articles and to methods of transmitting information and detecting motion.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2007Date of Patent: June 16, 2009Assignee: SensiTile Systems, LLCInventor: Abhinand Lath
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Patent number: 7520651Abstract: The present invention relates to an article of manufacture for detecting motion that includes a substrate with a plurality of volumes of material, where each volume is capable of transmitting light from one location on a surface of the substrate to a second location. The present invention also relates to an article of manufacture having a motion detector with a substrate with a first surface, and a volume of material contained within the substrate and adapted to transmit light from a first location on the first surface to at least a second location. The present invention also relates to methods of making the articles and to methods of transmitting information and detecting motion.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2007Date of Patent: April 21, 2009Inventor: Abhinand Lath
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Publication number: 20090003013Abstract: An overspeed prevention structure is disclosed herein. The overspeed prevention structure according to the present invention comprises a structural body having a curved convex upper surface; an external light source; and a plastic optical fiber embedded in the structural body and connected electrically to the external light source so as to emit the light outside the structural body.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 26, 2008Publication date: January 1, 2009Applicant: KUMHO ELECTRIC, INC.Inventors: Jong-Chan Lee, Gi-Seung Choi, In-Sung Her
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Patent number: 7458708Abstract: A lighting fixture is disclosed to include a light guide bar, a connector holding a LED at a first end of the light guide bar, and a first reflector and a second reflector respectively covered on a part of the periphery and a second end of the light guide bar to reflect light from the LED out of the light guide bar. The connector has a barrel at the first end thereof that accommodates one end of the light guide bar and the LED, an accommodation space at the second end that accommodates electronic components, and a detoured wire path that guides electric wires of the LED out of the connector and prevents disconnection of the electric wires from the LED. A second LED may be attached to the second end of the light guide bar to substitute for the second reflector.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2006Date of Patent: December 2, 2008Inventor: Chen Keng Sheng
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Patent number: 7422354Abstract: The present invention relates to a light scrambling system that includes a substrate and a plurality of light pipes. The substrate includes a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface. Each of the plurality of light pipes includes a first end on the first surface of the substrate, a second end on the second surface of the substrate, and at least one inside surface formed by a refractive index boundary. The light input is received by the first end at a plurality of input angles, and the light output is transmitted at the second end at a plurality of output angles. At least a portion of the input angles are different from at least a portion of the output angles, thereby scrambling the light received by the first ends of the light pipes and transmitted by the second ends of the light pipes.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2007Date of Patent: September 9, 2008Assignee: SensiTile Systems LLCInventor: Abhinand Lath
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Patent number: 7421184Abstract: A light pipe assembly is provided for use with small form factor style connectors of a dual row, stacked configuration. The assembly includes two pairs of light pipes, each of which is provided with integrated support members. The support members include members that engage opening disposed on the face of the connector, and the pairs of pipes are arranged so that one pair is supported within the other pair of pipes in a nested type of arrangement.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2005Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Molex IncorporatedInventor: Jerry A. Long
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Patent number: 7393127Abstract: A light-guiding structure including a plurality of light pipes, a plurality of connecting portions and a fixing socket is provided. The light pipes are disposed on the fixing socket, and the light pipes are connected together by the connecting portions. At least one to-be-destroyed portion is formed between the connecting portions. In addition, the fixing socket has at least one destructive structure for disconnecting the connecting portions from each other by destroying the to-be-destroyed portion. Therefore, the interference caused by the light wave passing through the connecting piece is avoided.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2007Date of Patent: July 1, 2008Assignee: Inventec CorporationInventor: Chia-Ju Ho
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Patent number: 7367699Abstract: The invention relates to an aeroplane comprising several decks which are arranged above each other, for passengers, freight and/or crew members, also comprising at least one staircase connected to the decks. Said aeroplane is characterized in that the staircase is provided with photoluminescent markings which enable the staircase to be recognized easily, even in poor lighting conditions, whereby orientation of passengers and crew members to exit is made easier in the event of an emergency.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2004Date of Patent: May 6, 2008Assignee: Lufthansa Technik AGInventor: Hans-Christian Lierow
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Patent number: 7330632Abstract: Fiberoptic luminaire with scattering and specular side-light extractor patterns comprises a fiberoptic light pipe with elongated side-fight emitting portion. Such portion illuminates a target area with a scattering, and a specular, light extractor pattern. The extractor patterns are arranged to extract light from the side-light emitting portion over a radial angle, orthogonal to said main axis, of less than 180°. The scattering extractor pattern atone may provide greater than 50% of light on the target area, and light extracted by the specular extractor pattern alone may produce an illuminance on a selected portion of the target area that is greater than 5% of the maximum illuminance produced on the target area by the scattering extractor pattern. Furthermore, the scattering extractor pattern may comprise a Lambertian type of extractor pattern. Each specular extractor pattern may comprise a notch having main faces parallel to within 10° of each other.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2006Date of Patent: February 12, 2008Assignees: Energy Focus, Inc., Optical Research AssociatesInventors: Roger F. Buelow, II, William J. Cassarly, Thomas L. R. Davenport, John M. Davenport, Chris H. Jenson
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Patent number: 7327930Abstract: A modular light system for a spa where replacement of a light emitter, such as but not limited to a LED and/or a cable is accomplished without needing access an area around a tub in the spa. Furthermore, replacing the cable and light emitter can be accomplished individually. The system comprises a light emitter, a power source, a controller, and a plurality of cables. When the light emitter fails, it is disconnected from the cable and replaced with a working light emitter. When the cable fails it may be disconnected from the light emitter and replaced with a working cable.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2005Date of Patent: February 5, 2008Assignee: Nexxus Lighting, Inc.Inventors: Pinhas P. Koren, Stephen Faber, Cristoffer Kvist
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Patent number: 7270459Abstract: A light guide is configured to direct light from a light source. The light guide has an outer guide member and an inner guide member located in the outer guide member. A light passage is defined through the light guide between the inner and outer guide members. When a first end of the light guide is positioned adjacent a light source, light is permitted to pass from the light source through only the light passage in the light guide. The configuration of the light guide reduces passage of light off-angle to the length of the light passage through the guide, such that light is directed substantially parallel to the light passage. The light guide is thus effective in eliminating light dispersion and associated light banding and in focusing light upon a particular object or area.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2006Date of Patent: September 18, 2007Inventor: Patrick S. Waring
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Patent number: 7229203Abstract: The present invention relates to an article of manufacture for detecting motion that includes a substrate with a plurality of volumes of material, where each volume is capable of transmitting light from one location on a surface of the substrate to a second location. The present invention also relates to an article of manufacture having a motion detector with a substrate with a first surface, and a volume of material contained within the substrate and adapted to transmit light from a first location on the first surface to at least a second location. The present invention also relates to methods of making the articles and to methods of transmitting information and detecting motion.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2003Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: SensiTile Systems LLCInventor: Abhinand Lath
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Patent number: 7217023Abstract: The invention is directed to a linear luminous body comprising: a light source; a light source accommodating portion in which the light source is accommodated; and a light guide held by the light source accommodating portion so as to extend from the light source accommodating portion; wherein a light emitted from the light source is introduced into said light guide through an end surface of said light guide.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2006Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tadanobu Iwasa, Shinji Takano
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Patent number: 7217021Abstract: A three-dimensional decorative lighting particularly structured to include a plurality of light emitting tubes enclosing bundles of optical fibers, and parallel arranged in a circle to form a cylindrical decorative lighting that can be transformationally shaped. The light emitting tubes can hang straight under their own weight, and each are fabricated from a transparent protective sleeve, within which a plurality of the plastic optical fibers are disposed. A plurality of light spot generating windows are distributed on a circumferential surface of each of the optical fibers. A manually manipulable binding connector affixes each of the light emitting tubes to a base plate, thereby enabling the light emitting tubes to hang down, and further facilitates manually transforming structural form of the decorative lighting. Ends of the light emitting tubes are prevented from being contaminated, thus avoiding influencing or obstructing light transmission, and realizing an integrated luminescent display.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2005Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Inventor: Jean-Hway Lee
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Patent number: 7213952Abstract: To provide an interior illuminator for an automobile that can produce a decorative effect by illumination in addition to illuminating the interior of the automobile and has a simple structure and a small size. A secondary light emitting unit is provided around primary light emitting units 5 and 6 for illuminating the interior of the automobile. A housing 2 that holds the primary light emitting units 5, 6 and the secondary light emitting unit is provided. The secondary light emitting unit has a U-shaped light guide body 21, light emitting elements 8 and 9 for launching light into the light guide body at the ends thereof, and a light emitting element control unit 11 for controlling the light emitting elements 8 and 9.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2005Date of Patent: May 8, 2007Assignee: Honda Access CorporationInventor: Shiro Iwai
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Patent number: 7198398Abstract: An adjustable-aim light pipe fixture, comprising a generally spherical eyeball for receiving an end of a light pipe is disclosed. The eyeball has a longitudinal axis coincident with a longitudinal axis of that portion of the light pipe that is received in the eyeball. A socket holds the eyeball. The socket comprises a first retainer ring and a second retainer ring. Each retainer ring has an interior surface with contact points to an outer surface of the eyeball. The first and second retainer rings are oriented with respect to each other so as to hold the eyeball in a fixed position when the first and second rings are pressed towards each other. Clamping structure clamps the first and second rings against each other in such manner as to hold the eyeball in fixed relation to the first retainer ring.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2005Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Fiberstars, Inc.Inventors: Roger F. Buelow, II, John M. Davenport, Gregory P. Frankiewicz, Dave Bina
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Patent number: 7197218Abstract: A method of manufacturing a light-conductive pipe is described comprising the steps of: forming a light pipe mold having an elongated cavity with two optical end faces and an opening for injecting molten material into the cavity distant from either optical end face; providing molten material from a supply of molten material; injecting the molten material through the opening; and cooling and solidifying the molten material to form a light-conductive pipe having an input optical face and an output optical face connected by an elongated body of light-conductive material. Also described are injection molded light-pipes formed by the method, and integrated linear arrays of injection molded light-conductive pipes formed by the method.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2004Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Eastman Kodak CompanyInventors: Ronald S. Cok, John N. Border
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Patent number: 7163329Abstract: A light pipe fixture with adjustable beam spreads comprises a bayonet assembly having a generally tubular coupling for receiving a light-dispensing end of a light pipe, and a receiver assembly. The receiver assembly has a generally tubular coupling for receiving therewithin the bayonet assembly coupling at adjustable levels of penetration of the bayonet assembly coupling within the receiver assembly coupling. The receiver assembly further comprises an optical lens and a hollow portion for focusing a light beam from the end of the light pipe through the lens. The radial interior surface of the receiver assembly coupling and the radial exterior surface of the bayonet assembly coupling may be configured so the receiver assembly coupling slidably and lockingly receives the bayonet assembly coupling in any of a plurality of positions along the length of the receiver assembly coupling.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2004Date of Patent: January 16, 2007Assignee: Fiberstars, Inc.Inventors: Dave Bina, John M. Davenport, Roger F. Buelow, II, Gregory P. Frankiewicz
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Patent number: 7163326Abstract: A luminaire with directional side-light extraction comprises a light pipe with a light-carrying core. The light pipe has light-extraction structure along a first longitudinal side of the luminaire, which is confined to a radial swath of the luminaire, along the longitudinal axis of the luminaire, of substantially less than 180°. For efficiency, the second end has light-saving structure for directing saved light from the second end towards the first end, at redirection angles other than an excluded range of redirection angles, so long as the photon content of light at so-called alpha redirection angles is at least 10 percent of the photon content of light at so-called beta redirection angles, where the excluded range of redirection angles is defined by: |?r|<=20° and |?r|<|?r|/10, where ?r is the beta redirection angle and ?r is the alpha redirection angle.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2005Date of Patent: January 16, 2007Assignee: Fiberstars, Inc.Inventors: William J. Cassarly, Thomas L. R. Davenport, John M. Davenport, Chris H. Jenson
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Patent number: 7131761Abstract: Self-illuminating fabricated solids, e.g., a pavers, driveway stones, building blocks, or statuary having an assembly, of optical fibers having second ends contained within a first end of a receptacle, embedded within the solid object so that the first end of the fibers visually terminate at the object's surface. The second end of the receptacle is exposed at the object's surface to reversibly receive and position a reversibly powered light source in operative contact with the fiber's second ends guiding light from the source through the fibers to the surface of the fabricated object providing for self-illuminating seasonal designs, informational text, or advertising. A plurality of designs in various colors may exist on a single object. These durable objects have a long life as surface exposed fibers wear with the surface of the object and worn-out light sources are easily and rapidly replaced.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2003Date of Patent: November 7, 2006Inventors: Walter E. Pipo, Daniel Seely
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Patent number: 7125147Abstract: A light guide is configured to direct light from a light source. The light guide has an outer guide member and an inner guide member located in the outer guide member. A light passage is defined through the light guide between the inner and outer guide members. When a first end of the light guide is positioned adjacent a light source, light is permitted to pass from the light source through only the light passage in the light guide. The configuration of the light guide reduces passage of light off-angle to the length of the light passage through the guide, such that light is directed substantially parallel to the light passage. The light guide is thus effective in eliminating light dispersion and associated light banding and in focusing light upon a particular object or area.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2004Date of Patent: October 24, 2006Inventor: Patrick S. Waring
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Patent number: 7114826Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus for providing indirect illumination to a building interior or exterior using crown molding with specialized grooves for holding light ropes or other types of light sources. The invention generally consists of modular pieces of crown molding with an elongated groove in a top surface running parallel to the front surface. A light rope or other types of illumination are installed in the groove and provide indirect light on the wall, ceiling or other objects above the crown molding. Molding may also be used as picture frame and shelving accent lighting. Clips hold the light rope or other source of illumination inside the groove.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2004Date of Patent: October 3, 2006Inventor: Donald W. Lilly
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Patent number: 7093961Abstract: A decorative lantern evocative of enclosing a candle or other open flame type light source includes an imitation candle and a super bright light emitting diode hidden with the lantern to illuminate the imitation candle from outside. A wick having a polished tip produces a hot spot of reflected light to heighten the illusion of an open flame being present.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2004Date of Patent: August 22, 2006Assignee: Jenesis International, Inc.Inventors: Roger D. Bentley, Bradford B. Jensen, Kim I. McCavit
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Patent number: 7036970Abstract: An optical fiber layout of light decorative object, in that the layout is for simulating illuminating accumulated snow in a decorative object, includes a house, a separate roof covering a top portion of the house, and an optical fiber strip formed by a plurality of optical fiber threads and clamped between the house and the roof. The invention is characterized that, a light curtain is exposed at a bent end portion of the optical fiber strip for simulating glittering effects of an icicle screen of the decorative object.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2003Date of Patent: May 2, 2006Inventor: I-Tsung Shen
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Patent number: 7021808Abstract: Numerous embodiments of an illuminated rope include various principles of illuminating translucent objects and wrapping or enclosing the objects with a translucent rope or the like to create attractive illuminated displays. Some embodiments comprise one or more flexible or rigid strands or lengths of radially emitting solid fiberoptic material which is lighted at one or both ends, with a sleeve or wrap of translucent rope or the like surrounding the fiberoptic material. Other embodiments comprise flexible or rigid hollow translucent tubes containing a string of lights therein, with translucent rope material surrounding the hollow illuminated tube. A series of illumination and control modules allows the color output of the devices to be varied as desired, and a series of modular connectors enables two, three, or more of the illuminated ropes to be connected together. Further embodiments comprise hollow, translucent, internally lighted three-dimensional shells or sculptures wrapped with translucent rope.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2003Date of Patent: April 4, 2006Inventors: Robert M. Currie, Jonas J. Robertson
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Patent number: 7018084Abstract: The present invention concerns a lighting display system. The system includes at least one non-transparent cable for transmitting light, at least one light emitting diode disposed at a first end of at least a portion of the non-transparent cables, a light emitting controller to control the intensity of light emanating from the light emitting diodes and receiving structure for receiving a second end of at least a portion of the non-transparent cables. At least a portion of the second ends of the non-transparent cables emit light from the light emitting diodes. The receiving structure is incorporated into infrastructure, and the system displays at least one design. In one arrangement, the design can be an advertisement or can simulate a floor covering, and the floor covering to be simulated can be carpeting. The infrastructure can be a travelway that supports at least one of vehicular traffic and pedestrian traffic.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2003Date of Patent: March 28, 2006Inventor: Bradley L. Gotfried
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Patent number: 6997594Abstract: A portable vehicle inspection system including a series of mats into which two lengths of flexible, polymeric side light transmitting optical fiber extend along channels placed near the edges of the mats, and at a distance to be within the tracks of wheels of a vehicle passing thereover, with the polymeric fiber optic including notches and a reflector directed to provide a steady, uniform flood of light up to the underside of a vehicle to be inspected, and between the inspection zone, and the light source, the polymeric optical fiber is covered by an opaque jacket to prevent light from radiating outward.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2003Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Inventors: William J. Grothe, Jianli Ren, Paul E. Robbins, Peter McNicol
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Patent number: 6971781Abstract: A system and method for providing light generated at a location that is easily accessible by a person on the ground and channeling the light to a remote, difficult to access location where the light is directed toward an area desired to be illuminated. The lighting system includes an illumination device adapted to direct light toward the area to be illuminated and a light source located remotely from the illumination device. The light source is located such that it is easily accessible by a person standing on the ground. A light guide channels the light generated by the light source to the illumination device. Additionally, the light guide is adapted to be a structural component of the system for supporting the illumination device.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2004Date of Patent: December 6, 2005Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventor: James K. Guy
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Patent number: 6966673Abstract: A light distribution control device including a substantially plate-like or film-like light diffusion structure which transmits or reflects light and at least one surface of which has a number of ridges arranged parallel to each other. The section of each ridge taken in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction substantially constitutes a part of a circle, the surface of each ridge being smooth enough not to cause significant irregular diffusion of light. The ratio of diffraction light quantity to incidence light quantity is adjusted through selection of the angle of circumference and maximum diameter of the section of each ridge. The projection of diffusion distribution onto a plane perpendicular to both the longitudinal direction of the ridges and the surface of the structure is substantially symmetrical with respect to the normal at the point of incidence independently of the angle of incidence of the light.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2001Date of Patent: November 22, 2005Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha S.T.I. JapanInventor: Nobuo Oyama
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Patent number: 6950599Abstract: Turf comprising artificial or natural turf fibers and fiber optic filaments extending between the turf fibers. The present invention also provides a method of marking a surface comprising the steps of providing a light source, providing a surface to be marked, providing an optical material capable of illumination by the light source, configuring and arranging the optical material, the surface, and the light source such that illumination of the optical material is visible on the surface, and illuminating the optical material. The present invention also provides a method of manufacturing turf comprising the steps of providing a turf surface, providing optical material capable of illumination by a light source, and threading the turf surface with the optical material whereby illumination of the optical material is visible on the surface.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2003Date of Patent: September 27, 2005Assignee: Triexe Management Group Inc.Inventors: Mark H. Nicholls, Sidney O. Nicholls, Douglas L. Pullin
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Patent number: 6945668Abstract: A multidirectional interior illumination lighting assembly is configured for mounting beneath a ceiling. The assembly includes a generally transparent planar acrylic panel and a hollow stringer which retains a panel edge and supports the panel in a horizontal position. The stringer carries a linear illumination source in registration with the panel edge. Additional stringers may be employed if additional edges of the panel are to be illuminated. To increase the direct and indirect illumination emanating from the panel, arrays of dots may be provided on the upper and lower faces of the panel.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2002Date of Patent: September 20, 2005Assignee: Linear Lighting Corp.Inventors: Arkady Orlov, Richard Erik Feus
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Patent number: 6908204Abstract: A flat panel luminaire includes a light source, which can be remote, an optical light pipe, and a light-emitting panel. The light-emitting panel includes a tapered light-injection zone joined to a light-emitting zone having the embedded irregular tetrahedrally-shaped light guides. The surface and cross-sectional areas of the light guides gradually increase as the light guides extend away from the tapered zone. Methods of illuminating an area using such light guides are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2003Date of Patent: June 21, 2005Inventor: Edward R. Kraft
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Patent number: 6840662Abstract: A decorative dome with controlled light enhancement consisting of a substantially concave structure having opposed front and rear faces and a plurality of apertures extending therethrough, for receipt of a plurality of optical fibers, extending between the interior surface of the concave structure, to a plurality of light emitting diodes (“LEDs”) mounted in a junction box mounted on the outer periphery of the rear face of the concave structure. The junction box also contains a control circuit for varying the duration and intensity of the plurality of LEDs, with the junction box constructed so as to dissipate heat generated by the LEDs. The LED's direct light into the receiving end of each said optical fibers such that light from the respective LEDs are directed through the optical fibers and from the emitting ends of the optical fibers at the front face of the concave structure. The plurality of apertures on the front face of the concave structure are arranged in a selected patent discernable by a viewer.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2002Date of Patent: January 11, 2005Inventors: Chris Isaacson, Lisa Isaacson
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Publication number: 20040213020Abstract: The present invention concerns a lighting display system. The system includes at least one non-transparent cable for transmitting light, at least one light emitting diode disposed at a first end of at least a portion of the non-transparent cables, a light emitting controller to control the intensity of light emanating from the light emitting diodes and receiving structure for receiving a second end of at least a portion of the non-transparent cables. At least a portion of the second ends of the non-transparent cables emit light from the light emitting diodes. The receiving structure is incorporated into infrastructure, and the system displays at least one design. In one arrangement, the design can be an advertisement or can simulate a floor covering, and the floor covering to be simulated can be carpeting. The infrastructure can be a travelway that supports at least one of vehicular traffic and pedestrian traffic.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 28, 2003Publication date: October 28, 2004Inventor: Bradley L. Gotfried
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Patent number: 6802635Abstract: A series of different embodiments of illuminated translucent devices, each include lighting at at least one end thereof and a channel or passage therethrough or therealong for installing connecting electrical wiring therein. An opaque sleeve or the like is provided about the passage to conceal the passage and any wiring or other element(s) installed therein. The lighting elements may be any suitable type, but LEDs are preferred. The external cross sectional shape of the device may be round, or any other shape as desired for use as a free standing column or support, or as a wall mounted sconce or the like. Some embodiments include a structural member therein or opaque structural sleeve therearound, with the outer sleeve having a series of light passages formed therethrough. The devices may be used as floor lamp or ceiling fan columns, guard or bannister rails, vehicle guards and racks, etc., as desired.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2002Date of Patent: October 12, 2004Assignee: Plastic Inventions & Patents, Inc.Inventors: Jonas J. Robertson, Robert M. Currie, Problems Y. Currie, Joseph E. Currie
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Patent number: 6758584Abstract: A slide lock assembly is provided. The slide lock assembly is primarily for a grab handle assembly having a mounting assembly comprising a cap with a tab and a base with an aperture for receiving the tab. However, the slide lock assembly of the present invention may be used with any mounting or similar assembly comprising a base and cap.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2002Date of Patent: July 6, 2004Assignee: Fleming Sales Company, Inc.Inventors: Kent Bach, Peter Valentino
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Patent number: 6739745Abstract: Internally illuminated holiday garland are icicle lights used for holiday decorating on the exterior of a home. The internally illuminated holiday garland is similar to conventional icicle lights with the exception of a white garland covering that is provided over the center fiber optic strand. The internally illuminated holiday garland is applied to the building or home in the same manner as conventional icicle lights, and provides a unique look both at night and during the day as well. During the day, the white garland forms a unique trim item that mimics the general appearance of snow and helps to hide the wiring. At night, the garland provides a reflective material from which the light from the lamps will reflect to provide a shimmering effect. The use of the internally illuminated holiday garland allows for exterior holiday decorating in a manner, which is unique and eye catching both at night and during the day as well.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2002Date of Patent: May 25, 2004Inventor: JoAnn M. Valdes
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Patent number: 6736534Abstract: Entry doors having transparent insert panels such as etched glass and/or stained glass with tube lights such as 12 mm neon tube lights imbedded in framing along the outer edges of the panels inside the doors. Photo cells can be used to turn on the lights in the dark. Relays can turn on power when the door is closed and spring loaded switches can provide contact between the neon tubes and a transformer before power is supplied.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2002Date of Patent: May 18, 2004Inventor: Robin L. Fite
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Publication number: 20040057251Abstract: A decorative dome with controlled light enhancement consisting of a substantially concave structure having opposed front and rear faces and a plurality of apertures extending therethrough, for receipt of a plurality of optical fibers, extending between the interior surface of the concave structure, to a plurality of light emitting diodes (“LEDs”) mounted in a junction box mounted on the outer periphery of the rear face of the concave structure. The junction box also contains a control circuit for varying the duration and intensity of the plurality of LEDs, with the junction box constructed so as to dissipate heat generated by the LEDs. The LED's direct light into the receiving end of each said optical fibers such that light from the respective LEDs are directed through the optical fibers and from the emitting ends of the optical fibers at the front face of the concave structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 8, 2002Publication date: March 25, 2004Inventors: Chris Isaacson, Lisa Isaacson
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Publication number: 20040047142Abstract: An architectural mesh including a plurality of wires, where the wires are woven to form a mesh, and at least one light element interwoven with the plurality of wires in the mesh. The at least one light element includes an electroluminescent wire, plastic optical fiber, or similar device.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 9, 2002Publication date: March 11, 2004Inventor: Daniel Lee Goslee
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Patent number: 6663273Abstract: A storage and/or retrieval system such as a horizontal carousel has a common light source array consisting of LED's and the like inside the system's rotating or movable carrier loop at a picking or storage access area behind the shelves of a selected carrier. When that carrier is at the desired access position, the common light source transmits light through light transmitting devices to an access face of the carrier at the picking or storing location in relative proximity to the actual compartment's position. The light transmitting devices can be flexible light pipes arranged in patterns dictated by the type of storage required.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2002Date of Patent: December 16, 2003Assignee: Bellheimer Metallwerk GmbHInventor: Timothy Robey
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Patent number: 6648496Abstract: A series of light emitting diodes (LEDs) are mounted within a housing (10) and operate as the light source for a nightlight. One LED (26) is positioned at each of the four corners of the housing forming an array of LEDs which generates an LED emitted light. The LEDs are all interconnected through printed wiring (40) mounted within the housing. Power is provided to each of the LED's through the printed wiring which is coupled to a power source. The power source can be a battery assembly (160), an electrical outlet or an energy storage device. An adjustable switch (50) is disposed on an exterior surface of the wall plate and is coupled to a variable resistor enclosed by the housing. The switch permits control over the optical output.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2000Date of Patent: November 18, 2003Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Hesham M. Elghoroury, Edward J. Thomas, Wordell Nelson