With Mounting Or Holding Means (e.g., Clamp, Disengageable Mechanical Connector, Optical Fiber Holder) Patents (Class 362/581)
  • Publication number: 20030133312
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a positioning structure for lighting fibers of a decorative lamp, which is composed of a shell, a bulb, a control unit, and a rotated color plate. A transparent plate is provided and fixed in a joint of the shell and placed under the lower end of the lighting fiber for positioning and preventing the lighting fiber from touching the rotated plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2002
    Publication date: July 17, 2003
    Inventor: Fu-Shien Hsu
  • Publication number: 20030128552
    Abstract: The light generating module comprises a housing, a semiconductor light emitting device, a first mounting face, a second mounting face, and a lens. The housing comprises a base and an optical window. The base extends along a predetermined plane and is made from material exhibiting a first thermal conductivity. The semiconductor light emitting device is provided in the housing. The first mounting face is made from material exhibiting a thermal conductivity equal to or more than the first thermal conductivity. The second mounting face mounts the semiconductor light emitting device and is made from material exhibiting a thermal conductivity equal to or more than the first thermal conductivity. The lens is provided in the housing. The lens has an installation face mounted on the first mounting face. The lens is used to direct light from the semiconductor light emitting device toward the optical window.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Publication date: July 10, 2003
    Inventors: Toshio Takagi, Hisao Go
  • Patent number: 6585400
    Abstract: A multi-adjustable clamp work light comprising an elongated hollow grip handle, a light housing pivotally mounted to one end of the grip handle, an adjustable clamp member, and a two-way adjustable joint disposed between the clamp member and the grip handle. An optional hook may also be provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Inventor: Monte A. Leen
  • Patent number: 6577794
    Abstract: A compound optical and electrical conductor includes a fiberoptic light transmitting element (multiple fibers or single solid rod) with at least one electrical conductor therewith. The electrical conductor or conductors may be imbedded or otherwise secured within the optically conducting element or its surrounding jacket or sheath, or may be contained in a separate elongate retainer which may be provided to hold the optically conducting element in place as desired. The conductors may include a jacket or retainer which is optically open along one side thereof, allowing the optical conductor to emit light laterally therefrom subtending an angle defined by the optical gap in the jacket or retainer. One or more compound connectors may be provided, for linking two or more such compound conductors together as desired. The connectors provide for both the concentric alignment of the optical conductors, and also the electrical connection of the electrical conductors of the compound devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Inventors: Robert M. Currie, Jonas J. Robertson
  • Patent number: 6568823
    Abstract: The invention relates to a remote access system designed to make the task of positioning, manipulation and/or maintenance of devices, which are difficult to access or in hostile environments, a much easier operation. The system comprises remote manipulation whereby a device (420), such as a bulb, may be moved from a remote access position (200) along a guide (300) to an enclosure position (100). The enclosure position may, for instance, comprise an area formed in the side wall of a swimming pool, such that, a lens (120) of the enclosure sure (100) is arranged, in use, to have the device (420) to one side of it, and, sealed from the device on the other side of the lens (120), there may be water. By providing an arrangement whereby the device (420) can be remotely positioned, the need for draining a swimming pool for the simple replacement of blown bulbs etc. is avoided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Inventors: Allan Fielding, Douglas Peter Burnham
  • Patent number: 6561690
    Abstract: The invention relates to a luminaire comprising a housing (1) which defines an internal space containing at least one light source formed by a light-emitting diode (LED) (2) and optical means (4) for guiding the light emitted by the LED (2) to the exterior of the housing (1). The LED (2) is mounted to a support (3) connected to the housing (1), and the optical means (4) are held between a retaining element (10) connected to the housing (1) and the support (3) of the LED (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventors: Christophe Balestriero, Marc Olivier Flaissier
  • Patent number: 6540389
    Abstract: A lighting system for illumination of an observation space, especially an observation space in which a pressurized and/or hot medium is contained, comprises an optical-fiber cable, one end of which can be connected to a light source, and a lighting head, which is connected to the other end of the optical-fiber cable and whose distal end can be introduced into the observation space through an opening in a wall enclosing the observation space. The lighting head comprises a light guide rod made from a pressure and/or temperature-resistant material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Assignee: Storz Endoskop GmbH
    Inventors: Pavel Novak, Manfred Kuster, Harald Haan, Beat Krattiger
  • Patent number: 6533442
    Abstract: A beam light unit for vehicles, having a light module with a light source and a reflector, includes a downstream light output element to produce a predetermined light distribution. The light output element is mounted in a housing that leaves only a light outlet face of the light output element exposed, with sidewalls of the housing being in contact with jacket walls of the light output element immediately adjacent the light outlet face. Edge contours of the sidewalls correspond to a form of an edge of the light outlet face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Assignee: Hella KG Hueck & Co.
    Inventors: Karsten Eichhorn, Detlef Korff, Roland Lachmayer, Burkhard Woerdenweber
  • Patent number: 6533435
    Abstract: A a portable light which has an enclosure, a battery, a light emitting diode and a mounting for the light. The light can be mounted in a variety of locations and the diode can be easily turned on and off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Inventor: Tracy Blair Brown
  • Patent number: 6530669
    Abstract: There is provided a spread illuminating apparatus ensuring excellent light utilization efficiency without deteriorating workability in assembling. A first extension plate and a second extension plate, which are bent so as to have a spring force working toward each other, are provided on an upper opposing plate of a frame. A spot-like light source and a light conductive member are pressed by means of the spring force of the above extension plates. A clearance between the spot-like light source and the first extension plate, and a clearance between the light conductive member and the second extension plate are eliminated, whereby generation of play can be prevented resulting in an improvement of workability in assembling. Also, the spot-like light source and the light conductive member contact tightly with each other eliminating a clearance therebetween so as to improve light utilization efficiency. The frame and further the whole apparatus can be compact while maintaining a high accuracy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2003
    Assignee: Minebea Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Koichi Toyoda
  • Patent number: 6529664
    Abstract: A method and apparatus mounts one or more optical fibers in a channel in a track along the periphery of a pool. The method and apparatus prevent slurry from entering the channel during the construction of a coping along the pool periphery. The track is mounted in the coping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Inventor: Ted E. Deason
  • Patent number: 6527403
    Abstract: A sewing machine with a light barrier used to detect the edge of a workpiece has an optical light guide (17) connected to the light source (15). The optical guide (17) is arranged in the thread guide hook (12). The thread guide hook (12) is fastened to the front side of the head (4) of the housing and is designed as a small tube for this purpose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Pfaff Industrie Maschinen AG
    Inventor: Karl-Ludwig Manuel
  • Patent number: 6523987
    Abstract: An assembly including a power source, a device for attaching the power source to a lower portion of a fishing rod, a length of fiber optic cable with a plurality of clips for securing the cable to the rod, and a light bulb. The light bulb which may have utility in other applications, includes a configured mass of plastic which encloses a region of reduced density which defines a first reflective region while the exterior of the bulb defines a second reflective region. The light bulb has a recess which receives a second end of the fiber optic cable so that the cable conducts a light beam to the bulb where it engages the first reflective surface and is bounced between the first reflective surface and the second reflective surface. Preferably, an electrical shrink tubing forms a sleeve over the first few inches adjacent the power source to focus the light beam along the cable. Color may be added to the bulb for alternate decorative uses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Inventor: Chester Roy Lee
  • Patent number: 6523984
    Abstract: A fiber optic lamp includes a lamp housing having a stem section with a passageway therein and a reflector section having a reflective surface. The lamp housing also has first and second circular ledges for receiving and holding in place at least one lens within the lamp housing. A fiber optic cable is provided having a first end for insertion into the passageway of the lamp housing for transmitting light. The second end of the fiber optic cable is connected to a light pump having a light source therein for generating and transmitting light through the fiber optic cable. The fiber optic cable is connected to a socket member of a fixture housing for mounting the stem section of the lamp housing in the fixture housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Inventor: Bruce D. Belfer
  • Patent number: 6502966
    Abstract: A ceiling lamp junction box double-constraint lighting rod mounting structure comprised of sockets installed through openings in the side of a junction box and plug-ended rods inserted into each socket. Each plug-ended rod has catch holes respectively formed in the top surface and two sides of its tip and, correspondingly, a spring and a retaining element are installed at the top ends and the lateral ends of each socket. When the retaining elements are their the normal state, the free ends of the retaining elements are pushed into the bores of the sockets by tensile components. After a plug-ended rod is inserted into the bore of a socket, the catch holes at its tip are respectively infixed by the engaging end of the spring and the free ends of the retaining elements projecting slightly into the bore such that the plug-ended rod is maintained in place by both the spring and the retaining elements and cannot be pulled out while mechanically constrained within the socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Inventor: Wen-Chang Wu
  • Publication number: 20030002296
    Abstract: High luminance display devices, typically utilized in applications requiring sunlight readability, require unique design methodologies as the thickness approaches a maximum of one-inch. The present invention relates to a high-intensity light generation engine and associated light transmission apparatus for transmitting the light generated by the engine to a remote location. The invention is especially applicable for use in constructing a back lighted display, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), of minimal thickness, i.e., one-inch or less. A display of minimal thickness is achieved by separating a light source and other peripherals from the display device, using a remote enclosure. Such a display is most suited for use in high ambient lighting conditions where space is at a premium, such as in the cockpit of an aircraft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2002
    Publication date: January 2, 2003
    Inventors: Ivan B. Steiner, Robert J. Saccomanno
  • Patent number: 6494605
    Abstract: An elongate light source (1) having at least one elongate lamp (3) with two ends, which has a light-guiding element (2; 4; 5) at at least one end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Assignee: Patent-Treuhand-Gesellschaft fuer Elektrische Gluehlampen mbH
    Inventor: Gerhard Doell
  • Publication number: 20020181248
    Abstract: A lighting display toy includes a light source, a plurality of light guide wire members adapted to guide light from the light source, the light guide wire members each having a first end aimed at the light source and a top end adapted to produce a light spot upon emission of light from the light source, and holder means adapted to hold the bottom end of each of the light guide wire members and to receive light from the light source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2001
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventor: Hung-Yi Chen
  • Publication number: 20020136028
    Abstract: A lighting apparatus to provide concentrated illumination to an end of a fiber optic bundle to produce useable light includes a light source emitting visible light and heat, including infrared radiation and ultra-violet radiation. A reflector is positioned adjacent to the light source to direct light from the light source toward an end of the fiber optic bundle. A light and heat trap is positioned adjacent to the reflector for trapping heat and redirecting stray light in combination with the reflector toward the end of the fiber optic bundle. A hot mirror is positioned between the light and heat trap and the end of the fiber optic bundle to allow visible light to be transmitted through the mirror and to reflect infrared and ultra-violet radiation to prevent substantially all of the emitted infrared and ultra-violet radiation from reaching the fiber optic bundle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2001
    Publication date: September 26, 2002
    Applicant: Juno Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Eric A. Smith
  • Patent number: 6450677
    Abstract: A fiberoptic lighting system includes a remotely located light source with one or more fiberoptic cables extending therefrom. The cables may be linked with various coupler and splitter devices to link additional cables to the light source, and to provide a series of light emitting fixtures at the distal ends of the cable runs. The present system is particularly well suited for use in emergency situations, where a fuel, chemical, explosive, or other hazardous spill has occurred, as in a gasoline truck accident. The remotely located light source is placed well clear of the hazardous spill area, where it is immune to explosive, fire, and/or other hazards which might exist closer to the hazard area. The light source of the present system thus need not require fireproof and explosive proof certification and periodic recertification, thus saving considerable costs for the users of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Inventors: Robert M. Knauer, Kevin R. Reagan
  • Patent number: 6450678
    Abstract: An interior decorating item such as a seat for motor vehicles or aircraft, an instrument console, an inner cover for vehicle doors or the like comprises an optical wave guide (1) which emits visible light along at least part of its length and is held in a fastening device (2, 3). The optical wave guide (1) is positioned inside a strip of material (3) of the fastening device, which strip forms a transparent hollow part (2). In its cross section, the fastening device has a strip of material extending away from the hollow part (2) and serving as fastening lug (4) with which the optical wave guide (1) is held in the hollow part (2) and is attached to the interior decorating item. At least one end of the optical wave guide (1) has a light source for introducing light into the optical wave guide (1). The interior decorating item can also be an optical wave guide visibly held under a seam or sewn into the item.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: Lisa Draxlmaier GmbH
    Inventor: Bernhard Bayersdorfer
  • Publication number: 20020122313
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a fiber optic arrangement for Christmas light having a socket mounted on the Christmas light bulb. A plurality of fiber optic elements are mounted on the socket, thereby increasing the decorating effect of the Christmas light. In addition, a socket is hollow-shaped inside thereof. One end thereof is provided with a mounting opening for receiving a Christmas light bulb while the other end thereof includes a plurality of connecting holes for receiving fiber optic bundles. The connecting holes communicate with the hollow part inside of the socket so that the fiber optic bundles receive the light source of the Christmas light bulb, thereby creating a radial lighting effect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2001
    Publication date: September 5, 2002
    Inventor: Jack Chang
  • Patent number: 6398398
    Abstract: A lighting device for an operational field of the “cast shadow” type, which is particularly useful for but not limited to field of dental surgery, includes a lighting head which is fed with light by at least one cord of optical fibers for directing the light produced by a light generator placed at a distance from the lighting head. The light generator is provided with a mechanical system for moving an inlet end piece of the cord away from or closer to a lamp which serves as the light generator. The lighting head is further configured to project the approximately rectangular light spot which is required for illuminating the operational field onto the work zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Assignee: JPM
    Inventor: Jean-Pierre Moschkowitz
  • Patent number: 6394625
    Abstract: The invention relates to a combination of a light-emitting tubular device (25) and a support pillar (15) for retaining and electrically connecting the device, the light emitting device comprising a translucent outer sheath comprising braided filaments (8) and a light emitter (2) arranged within the tubular hollow body (1), the combination comprising retaining hooks (20, 36, 41) for retaining the device in the pillar, and power connectors (19, 26, 38, 43) for connecting the device and the pillar and providing power to the light emitter. The invention also relates to a light emitting device and a pillar for mounting the device with purposes of delimiting pedestrians walking areas, performing towing functions, rescuing activities, signaling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Inventor: Edgardo Dante Demaria
  • Publication number: 20020048178
    Abstract: A remote light source device for generating light which is transmitted to a light emitting device of an illumination system by a fiberoptic cable coupled between the light source device and the light emitting device. The light source device includes a light source and a cover or housing containing the light source, the cover or housing having a light orifice aligned with the light source. A fiberoptic cable coupler assembly is mounted to an exterior surface of the cover or housing adjacent the light orifice. The coupler assembly permits removable coupling of a fiberoptic cable to the device, the coupler assembly also being operative for aligning an end of the cable with the light orifice of the cover or housing so that light generated by the light source is received at the end of the cable for transmission thereby. Structures are provided for preventing the fiberoptic cable coupler assembly from becoming substantially heated by the light source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 1999
    Publication date: April 25, 2002
    Inventors: RICHARD E. FEINBLOOM, AMY SUE GRUMET-AVALLONE, HIL SIM YEE
  • Publication number: 20020044437
    Abstract: A back light assembly for a liquid crystal display device includes at least one or more diffusion plate supporting members disposed between a reflection sheet and a diffusion plate, and having a complex structure including an elastic material in contact with the diffusion plate, the diffusion plate supporting member preventing the diffusion plate from dropping down.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2001
    Publication date: April 18, 2002
    Inventor: Joung Jae Lee
  • Patent number: 6371628
    Abstract: A post-installation adjustable lighting fixture comprises an eyeball captured between a flange and retention means which are rotatably coupled so that the eyeball is swivelably received by the flange and retention means. The eyeball is constructed so that it can be removably attached to an open-ended adjusting tool which provides easy adjustment of the eyeball position after the fixture is installed on a mounting surface. The tool may be left in place to act as a glare reduction device, baffle, or projection device. The tool may alternatively be separated from the eyeball to provide a conventional appearance for the fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: Lucifer Lighting Company
    Inventor: Patrick H. Ward
  • Patent number: 6350050
    Abstract: An efficient downlight system for directing light includes a light source and a generally tubular, hollow coupling device with an interior light-reflective surface for receiving light from the source at an inlet and transmitting it as a generally diverging light beam through an outlet. The coupling device is shaped in accordance with non-imaging optics and increases in cross sectional area from inlet to outlet in such manner as to reduce the angle of light reflected from the surface as it passes through the device. A thermal-isolating region has an inlet positioned in proximity to an outlet of the coupling device and has an outlet for passing light to an optical member. An arrangement for splitting the light from the outlet of the thermal-isolating region comprises a plurality of light guides. Each light guide includes an inlet end for receiving light from the thermal-isolating region and an outlet end for directing light to a remote location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Assignee: Fiberstars Incorporated
    Inventors: Roger F. Buelow, II, John M. Davenport, Juris Sulcs
  • Publication number: 20020003706
    Abstract: A lighting system for preferentially illuminating the seating area of a mass-transit vehicle includes a light fixture with a lamp housing longitudinally disposed above the seating area. An electrically energized light source is mounted at least one end of the light fixture. At least one solid-core semi-rigid light pipe extends from and is optically coupled to the light source. The light pipe receives light from the light source, transmits the light along its length, and emits the light laterally into the passenger compartment. The light pipe runs parallel to and is suspended from the lamp housing between the lamp housing and the seating area so that the lamp housing can direct laterally emitted light from the pipe into the seating area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2001
    Publication date: January 10, 2002
    Applicant: Transmatic, Inc.
    Inventors: Onward K. Dealey, Ben V. Domas, Alvin D. McCauley
  • Patent number: 6328464
    Abstract: Disclosed is a luminaire including a housing for receiving light axially and having at lest one optical surface for emitting light. A lens is mounted in the housing and has a light input portion and a light output portion. A prismatic film is mounted in the housing onto which light output from the output portion of the lens is incident thereon wherein light is reflected by the prismatic film radially outwardly therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Assignee: Litton Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Allen J. Bernardini
  • Patent number: 6325550
    Abstract: A light directing, load bearing, thermally protective coupling for connecting a light conduit, such as a light pipe, to a light source includes a body member having a first end connected with the light source and a second end connected with the light pipe. The body member contains a longitudinal channel which extends from the first end to the second end and includes an inner surface defining the channel which directs light from the light source, through the coupling, to the light pipe. To reduce light loss, the inner surface is provided with a highly reflective finish. The coupling is formed of a thermally conductive metal which dissipates heat from the light source and has a length sufficient to produce a temperature drop which allows the light pipe to be connected with the coupling without damaging the light pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Joseph A. Hoffman, Duwayne C. Radke, Stephen J. Pojar
  • Patent number: 6304702
    Abstract: A fiber optic pool lighting system includes a light adaptor cup having an open mouth adapted to be positioned over a pool wall light source. A flexible fiber optic cable bundle having an end mounted in an opening in the cup is provided so that the end is in substantial alignment with the light source. A rail adaptor attaches the cable bundle to the top rail of a swimming pool and the cable is branched from the adaptor and extends along a top rail of the pool. The branches comprise a tube having a longitudinal tail. The tail is provided with a barb which cooperates with a slot in the rail to hold the cable in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Assignee: Pac-Fab, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin L. Potucek, Dennis C. Dunn
  • Patent number: 6302571
    Abstract: A light delivery system includes a light source. A first generally tubular, hollow coupling device with an interior light-reflective surface receives light from the source at an inlet and transmits it to an outlet. The coupling device increases in cross sectional area from inlet to outlet in such manner as to reduce the angle of light reflected from the surface as it passes through the device. A thermal-isolating region has an inlet positioned in proximity to an outlet of the coupling device and has an outlet for passing light to an optical member, the thermal-isolating region comprising one or more members. A waterproof container for the light source and coupling device has an aperture allowing light to pass out of the container. The aperture is sealed in part by a portion of a member of the thermal-isolating region. Advantageously, the system can be buried beneath the surface of the ground. This avoids the problem of people or equipment colliding with the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Assignee: Fiberstars Incorporated
    Inventors: John M. Davenport, Roger F. Buelow, II, Eric J. Haugaard, Juris Sulcs, Craig D. Raleigh, Raymond A. Buchina, Alan J. Ruud
  • Patent number: 6302570
    Abstract: An illuminating device includes an electronic assembly, a light source, a switch, a housing and a bundle of optical fibers. The electronic assembly is coupled to a power source. The light source is coupled to the electronic assembly to emit light. The switch is coupled to the electronic assembly to activate the power source for controlling an illumination from the light source. The housing has a base and a cover. The base provides a rib guide to secure the light source and an area for holding the electronic assembly. The cover and the base, when coupled together via a coupling post, provide an aperture at one end of the housing. The bundle of optical fibers has a proximal end, a distal end and a longitudinal length. The proximal end is formed by the first ends of the optical fibers. The distal end is formed by the second ends of the optical fibers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Assignee: Fiber Optic Design, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael C. Petell, Anthony Roberts
  • Patent number: 6296383
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and an apparatus for controlling light from a light source (1) to a lighting location. A preferred embodiment of the invention comprises precisely one central light source (1) which is connected to a plurality of light guides (4) via a control unit (3), each of said light guides being terminated at a remote point. The control unit comprises a plurality of electrically controlled microshutters (14, 15), each of which has at least two states, an open state and a closed state, from which the light is conducted further on to the light location or locations via optical guides in the open state of the diaphragms. The light may thus be distributed by means of the control unit (3) to the individual light guides (4) in response to control signals supplied to the control unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2001
    Assignee: Dicon A/S
    Inventor: Henning Henningsen
  • Publication number: 20010019488
    Abstract: An optical waveguide structure for distributing light from a light source includes a cylindrical sleeve configured to accommodate and receive light from the light source. The sleeve includes a central axis. A waveguide collar is formed from a solid, planar block of material. The block of material has a central portion configured to accommodate and surround the sleeve. The first and second output arms extend in a plane away from the central portion. The plane is substantially perpendicular to the central axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2001
    Publication date: September 6, 2001
    Inventors: George R. Hulse, James Burr Anderson
  • Patent number: 6267492
    Abstract: Side emitting light guides are provided in connection with illumination devices, light guide systems, and tasklight illumination kits. The side emitting light guides may be provide bright directional light, or they may be provide diffuse light. The side emitting light guides may be flexible to allow for insertion into tortuous passageways. The light guides may also have a relatively small profile and/or a solid core. The light guides may also include shades that allow an operator to convert the light guides from side emitting to end emitting in order to provide brighter, more focused illumination in a particular area to perform some tasks. When completed, the user has the option of re-configuring the light guides for side emission to provide general area illumination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2001
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Thomas J. Reid, David J. Lundin
  • Patent number: 6244734
    Abstract: An illuminated step-up for a vehicle includes a step-up plate mounted on the door sill of a vehicle. A slot extends along a portion of the length of the step-up plate. An optical waveguide formed from a solid piece of material is positioned to release light through the slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Assignee: Cooper Automotive Products, Inc.
    Inventor: George R. Hulse
  • Patent number: 6239421
    Abstract: A rod lens array, used in an image sensor, is configured by sandwiching a plurality of rod lenses with two side plates. Among the two side plates, the one which is on the side of the illumination device is made thinner than the other side plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Kenji Nagata, Tatsundo Kawai, Masami Tabata
  • Patent number: 6238074
    Abstract: An optical waveguide structure for distributing light from a light source includes a cylindrical sleeve configured to accommodate and receive light from the light source. The sleeve includes a central axis. A waveguide collar is formed from a solid, planar block of material. The block of material has a central portion configured to accommodate and surround the sleeve. The first and second output arms extend in a plane away from the central portion. The plane is substantially perpendicular to the central axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: Cooper Automotive Products, Inc.
    Inventors: George R. Hulse, James Burr Anderson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6234657
    Abstract: A light source structure for optical fiber decoration, including a display member, optical fibers and light emitting diodes, wherein display ends of the optical fibers are arranged into various pictures of bright points or into a solid pattern. Root ends of the optical fibers are binded and disposed beside the light emitting diodes, whereby the light from the diodes is conducted by the optical fibers to the display member to provide decorative effect in bright point pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2001
    Inventor: Shan Wei Shih
  • Patent number: 6217201
    Abstract: An optical waveguide assembly for distributing light within a vehicle door panel includes a light source that outputs light to an optical waveguide. A trunk waveguide that propagates light through internal reflection has output branches and a trunk input portion connected to the light source. Branch waveguides that propagate light through internal reflection extend from the output branches of the trunk waveguide to lighting outputs of the vehicle door panel. Support arms extend between the branch waveguides and support the branch waveguides within the vehicle door panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Assignee: Cooper Automotive Products, Inc.
    Inventor: George R. Hulse
  • Patent number: 6217205
    Abstract: A cold coupling apparatus for receiving light from a source of illumination and transmission to the ends of one or more light-guiding fibers comprises a coupler body having one or more lenses are typically disposed within the coupler body; a compression fitting is engaged with the retention means; a collet is typically disposed within the compression fitting, as are one or more ferrules, and one or more rods, or a slug. The coupler body may be actively cooled, or may have heat sink fins attached to its exterior. A method of cooling a plurality of light-guiding fibers comprises the steps of inserting a plurality of fibers and a corresponding plurality of ferrules, along with a plurality of rods, into a thermally conductive coupler body. Each ferrule is placed over the end of a corresponding fiber, so as to expose the fiber end, and partially cover the fiber jacket. The ferrules are also placed in physical contact with the rods, which are in parallel alignment with the longitudinal axes of the fibers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Assignee: Lucifer Lighting Co.
    Inventor: Patrick H. Ward
  • Patent number: 6203208
    Abstract: A fiber optic cable connector coupling medium disposable in an axial bore of a connector sleeve member for coupling a fiber optic cable end portion to a light transmitting conductor member. The coupling medium has a resilient generally disk shaped portion having first and second convex end portions engageable with a corresponding one of the fiber optic cable end portion and conductor member in the axial bore of a sleeve member. The coupling medium has good optical clarity, low hardness and tackiness to provide an improved light transmission coupling. The coupling medium is also relatively thin and has substantially the same refractive index as a fiber optic cable end portion and a conductor member between which the coupling medium is disposed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey M. Stupar
  • Patent number: 6174065
    Abstract: A modular display rack comprises a plurality of removable, translucent panels that can be edge-illuminated by a captivated fiber optic lighting system. In the best mode, the system forms a single rack, although two or more racks can be combined side by side. The translucent, etched glass panels are maintained in a selected three-dimensional orientation, for colorfully displaying selected written or pictorial indicia or artwork, by rail assemblies between which they extend. The rail assemblies comprise stacked, modular parts that may be snap-fitted together by the user. In the best mode a decorative trim piece having a convex or profiled top mounts upon a lower rail. In another alternative embodiment, wherein layers of panels are deployed, a stack of rails is used instead of a single rail. Each rail is secured to a lower shoe, that is fastened to a baseplate or a supporting surface. Pins projecting from the shoes lock within rail keys, and pins projecting from the rails lock within trim piece keys.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2001
    Inventor: Paul Schurch
  • Patent number: 6169839
    Abstract: Illumination devices and light distribution systems utilizing overlapping joints, connector rings, end caps, assemblies for mounting light tubes to a ceiling or wall, and protective tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2001
    Inventor: Walter A. Johanson
  • Patent number: 6168304
    Abstract: A lamp box with a color variable light source comprises a metal halide lamp, a bowl-like reflector, a power source, a filter and a drive motor in its body. The body of the lamp box is connected with optical fibers through a fiber optic plug. The fiber optic plug comprises a fiber optic internal sleeve, a fiber optic position sleeve, a position pole, a holder and a rear base seal sleeve. The fiber optic internal sleeve is settled inside the fiber optic position sleeve. The holder, the fiber optic position sleeve and the fiber optic internal sleeve are fastened by the position pole. Even if the fiber optic position sleeve and the optical fibers in the fiber optic internal sleeve rotate, the fiber optic plug will not depart from the body of the light source lamp box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2001
    Assignee: Optic-Tech International
    Inventor: Jack Caruso
  • Patent number: 6152586
    Abstract: A lighting system using piped light is provided for a compartment such as the cargo space of a truck. An electrically energized light source is mounted adjacent the compartment. A side-fire light pipe is optically coupled to the light source. An elongated light pipe enclosure is disposed around and supports the light pipe. The enclosure comprises an elongated mounting flange adapted to fasten the enclosure to a compartment inner surface, an elongated face panel that extends integrally from along the length of the mounting flange, and a longitudinal elongated channel that is recessed into the face panel. The channel includes parallel opposing channel edges that define a longitudinal gap in the face panel. The channel is configured to receive the light pipe in frictional engagement through the gap. The light pipe can be inserted into the channel after the enclosure has been installed and protects the light pipe from damage during such operations as cargo loading into and cargo unloading from the compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Assignee: Transmatic, Inc.
    Inventors: Onward K. Dealey, Jr., Ben V. Domas, Alvin D. McCauley
  • Patent number: 6139194
    Abstract: A fiber optic lighting system connector for coupling a fiber optic cable to another fiber optic cable, or a light source, or a light fixture. The connector includes a sleeve member having an axial bore for receiving a fiber optic cable, and a cap having an axial bore for receiving the fiber optic cable. The cap is rotatably coupled to the sleeve member, and a first ramped surface of the sleeve member is engagable with a plurality of fingers extending flexibly into the axial bore of the cap to move the plurality of fingers radially inwardly toward the fiber optic cable upon rotation of the cap. One or more teeth protruding from one or more of the plurality of fingers are engagable with the fiber optic cable to axially bias the fiber optic cable into the axial bore of the sleeve member toward another fiber optic cable, or toward a light source or light fixture conductor member retained in the axial bore of the sleeve member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph J. Bella, Donald J. Broomfield, William J. Olson
  • Patent number: 6139176
    Abstract: An optical waveguide structure (1000) is configured to receive light from a light source (1020) and distribute the light to output ports. The structure includes a central portion having top and bottom surfaces, peripheral edges and an opening (1070) for receiving the light source (1020). A first waveguide (1010) extends above the top surface of the central portion. The first waveguide (1010) has an input face (1030) at an end nearest the opening (1070). The first waveguide (1010) extends from the opening (1070) toward a peripheral edge of the central portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Assignee: Federal-Mogul World Wide, Inc.
    Inventors: George R. Hulse, Ronald O. Woodward, Joe P. Young