Quick Disconnect-type Light Unit Patents (Class 362/640)
  • Patent number: 7611270
    Abstract: A lighthead mounting structure provides both precise alignment of a lighthead and an effective heat transfer path away from heat generating components of the lighthead. Cooperating aluminum brackets are configured to lock together and overlap to provide an effective heat transfer path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Whelen Engineering Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Jon H. Lyons, Richard H. Morrow
  • Patent number: 7597458
    Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for replacing an incandescent lamp with a ceramic metal halide (“CMH”) lamp in a framing projector. A CMH base is connected to a framing projector body at a connection for an incandescent lamp base for an incandescent lamp. The CMH base positions a CMH lamp relative to a focal point of a reflector within the framing projector body. The CMH lamp is plugged into a CMH socket on the CMH base and the framing projector body includes an opening and connection for an incandescent base holding an incandescent lamp relative to the focal point. A CMH ballast for the CMH lamp is included and is connected to the CMH base and to an electrical connection of the incandescent lamp base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: Mountain Springs Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: Glenn M. Johnson, Ed Heater, Troy Seaton
  • Patent number: 7585187
    Abstract: A connector for mounting an LED to a printed circuit board (PCB) includes a hollow cylindrical body portion with an interior sidewall that defines a hollow cavity at one end to receive the LED threaded base section. The second end has a plurality of conductive contact elements with which to electrically contact the LED. A first electrical contact element includes at least one prong extending partially into the cavity. The prong is flexible for the threaded portion to pass the prong for insertion, and partially return to electrically engage the threaded portion to maintain the threaded portion inside the cavity. The prong also permits removal of the LED rotationally with respect to the cavity. The contact elements are in electrical communication with the LED and the threaded base section when the threaded base section is inserted within the body portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: Tyco Electronics Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher George Daily, Sheldon Lynn Horst
  • Patent number: 7575341
    Abstract: A lamp structure includes a plurality of carrier units and a plurality of hollow heat dissipating units put together in an alternating manner so that each carrier unit abuts on at least a hollow heat dissipating unit. Light emitting elements are fitted on the top surface or bottom surface of each carrier unit. The heat generated by light emitting elements is swiftly passed from each carrier unit to the neighboring hollow heat dissipating units and then is quickly dissipated into the ambient air through the hollow portions. Therefore, the goal of fast heat dissipation may be reached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Inventor: Yung-Chiang Liao
  • Patent number: 7554266
    Abstract: A mechanical shunt for use in a socket of a string of lights resides in an otherwise typical lamp of a string of lights. The present shunt is a horizontal spring held in position by a shunt holder between the two conducting terminals on the interior walls of the socket so that the lateral ends of the shunt contact the terminals when the base is removed. When the base is inserted, a depending prong on the bottom of the base presses the shunt into a V-shaped surface formed in the shunt holder to pivot the lateral ends away from the terminals and allow current to flow through the Dumet wires to the filament.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Assignee: Willis Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chung-Wei Johnny Chen
  • Patent number: 7549785
    Abstract: Disclosed is a night lighting system retrofittable with existing wall switches for illuminating an area around the wall switches. The night lighting system comprises: a wall plate having at least one switch receiving slot capable of receiving a switch, at least one lens assembly disposed on the wall plate, a printed circuit board having at least one light emitting diode and interface wires electrically connecting the night lighting system to a power switch. The lens assembly has a chamber protruding from a back surface of the wall plate, and a lens covering a front end of the chamber. The chamber is capable of receiving at least a portion of the light emitting diode, such that, light from the light emitting diode passes though the lens to illuminate an area around the switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Inventor: Michael J Faunce
  • Patent number: 7549786
    Abstract: Socket arrangements for releasably mounting LEDs and light fixtures or assemblies employing such sockets are described. The socket arrangements facilitate the replacement of LEDs to replace an original LED with a brighter replacement, to change the color of the LED, to replace a single LED with a multiple chip LED, to replace a damaged or burned out LED with a new one, or the like. In further assemblies with plural LEDs, the use of ready release sockets facilitates selective replacement of an LED or LEDs and greatly enhances the flexibility of such units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Assignee: Cree, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Edward Higley, Faramarz Hafezi
  • Patent number: 7547131
    Abstract: The present invention is a low power and low heat dissipating, low illumination system that is based in an electrical box cover plate, preferably in a light switch cover plate. It allows for the maintenance of an electrical bleed current through the fluorescent light controlled by that light switch so as to keep a minimal thermal differential between the unlit and lit light. The light switch cover plate has a series of imbedded LEDs that illuminate an area all around the light switch. The unit is retrofittable on conventional light switches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2009
    Inventor: Michael Joseph Faunce
  • Publication number: 20090109708
    Abstract: A lighting system includes a wiring system and a plurality of light source modules adapted for connection to and disconnection from the wiring system Each light source module includes at least one light source unit including a plurality of light emitting diodes, wherein each of the light emitting diodes is independently connected with the wiring system The lighting system of the invention may be modular, allowing use of a suitable number and arrangement of light source modules for illuminating a given space or surface The lighting system may be adapted for being mounted, e g, to structures such as walls, ceilings, and the like, via a mounting assembly The lighting system may be suitable for, but not limited to, shedding visible light directly or indirectly to a space or a surface
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2005
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Inventor: TERRY HORWITZ
  • Patent number: 7524080
    Abstract: An illumination assembly comprises a base and at least one illumination cell. The base comprises a supply circuit for supplying an external power after connecting to a power source. The illumination cell is optionally connected to the base or removed from thereof, and includes a power storage unit stored with a storage power, a discharging circuit, and a charging circuit, wherein the power storage unit is electrically connected to the discharging circuit and the charging circuit. When the illumination cell is removed from the base, the storage power released from the power storage unit drives the illumination cell projecting an illumination light beam via the discharging circuit. When the illumination cell is assembled to the base, the supply circuit is electrically connected to the discharging circuit and the charging circuit respectively, so that the external power can drive the illumination cell projecting the illumination light beam and charge the power storage unit simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2009
    Assignee: Edison Opto Corporation
    Inventors: Hsi-Ku Tu, Sheng-Ping Hou, Pin-Chun Chen, Tsung-Ting Sun
  • Patent number: 7498933
    Abstract: A modular warning signal light system comprising at least one support. The at least one support having at least one module receiving port. The module receiving ports constructed and arranged to removably receive the support engagement member of a module. Each module having at least one visible side. The at least one visible side having at least one light emitting diode light source engaged thereto. The at least one light emitting diode light source, module and support all in independent electrical communication with a controller. The controller constructed and arranged to selectively activate the at least one support, the at least one module, the at least one light emitting diode light source, and any combinations thereof to create at least one warning light signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Assignee: 911EP, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. Pederson
  • Patent number: 7494261
    Abstract: In order for a tip end portion of a holding plate not to catch up on a cover glass holder when a lamp unit is stored in a lamp storage unit, a surface of the cover glass holder which confronts the holding plate is processed into a shape which does not project, in concrete terms, into the shape of a curved surface or the shape of a sloping plane. By doing this, even though the tip end portion of the holding plate strikes against the cover glass holder, since it passes smoothly thereover without catching up thereupon, accordingly, it is possible for the lamp unit to be smoothly stored in the lamp storage unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Assignee: Funai Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Masakazu Suzuki
  • Patent number: 7494244
    Abstract: A surface-mounted lighting system and method wherein a lamp (e.g., an LED) is mounted within a surface (e.g., a wall, the wall of a pool or spa, a panel, etc.) such that it casts light to one side of the surface. A lighting system of the present invention comprises a) a lens cap/light emitting diode/first connector subassembly and b) a second connector/wire subassembly. A first connector located on the lens cap/light emitting diode/first connector subassembly is connectable to the second connector located on the second connector/wire subassembly such that power may be delivered through the second connector/wire subassembly to the lamp. Thereafter, when it is desired to remove or change the lamp, the first connector is disconnected from the second connector and the entire Lens cap/LED/first connector subassembly may be removed and replaced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Assignee: J & J Electronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan Van Diep, Lawrence Michael Johnson
  • Patent number: 7481556
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus that enables converting a high voltage lighting fixture for use with a low voltage lighting system are disclosed. The method comprises providing a housing having a cavity, providing a low voltage light source socket having two electrical contacts having sufficient spacing to accommodate a low voltage light source, each electrical contact connected a first and a second conductor respectively, electrically connecting the first conductor to an interior thread contact and the second conductor to an interior base contact, and securing the first and second conductors and the low voltage light source socket within the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Inventor: Robert Wilson Yarrington
  • Patent number: 7470055
    Abstract: A mounting structure for LED lighting sources, includes a support body having attached on one side thereof a circuit board for mounting the LED lighting sources. The circuit board is preferably a printed-circuit board with conductive traces to feed electrical power to the LED lighting sources. The support body is in the form of an elongated bar or a box with a linear, round, square, hexagonal or octagonal shape. The support body is a drawn or molded body of a lightweight material and preferably exhibits good heat transfer properties. The support body includes a back side for mounting the structure on a supporting surface, such back side possibly having associated a heat dissipation fixture. Additionally, the support body may have free space inside and/or be at least partially apertured to permit cooling air flow for a driver circuit for driving the LED lighting source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Patent-Treuhand-Gesellschaft fur Elektrische Gluhlampen mbH
    Inventors: Christian Hacker, Alessandro Maschietto, Giovani Scilla, Alessandro Scordino
  • Patent number: 7467888
    Abstract: A power supply module for a lighting system is directly mountable onto a special cover plate for a standard electrical junction box. The power supply module is provided with a plug assembly that mates with a socket assembly incorporated within the special cover plate. The power supply circuit provides an electronically power limited output through multi-conductor connectors. The power supply output is used to connect to luminaires using a multi-conductor cable having multi-conductor connectors that mate with the multi-conductor connectors on the power supply and the luminaires. The luminaires use a circuit to interface between the power supply output and the lamp. The special cover plate is also suitable for receiving a plug assembly incorporated within the base of a lighting base module that can provide temporary incandescent or gas-discharge lighting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Inventor: Dale E. Fiene
  • Patent number: 7438433
    Abstract: A lighting fixture assembly with easy access to a junction box or electrical box having a mounting frame adapted to be coupled to a wall in an architectural space. Through an opening in the frame or ceiling, a luminaire is coupled to the mounting frame for projecting light through the opening. A support, such as a substantially U-shaped bracket having legs with first and second lengths, is coupled to the mounting frame and to the electrical box for supporting the electrical box in a position tilted towards the opening. This provides easy access and viewing through the opening from below the mounting frame when the luminaire is not located in the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2008
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Connie A. Steadman, Ronald C. Newbold, Thomas W. Fool
  • Publication number: 20080186699
    Abstract: A task light system for mounting to a computer component, including a housing with an aperture, a light source, and a mounting structure such that light escapes to illuminate a workspace when desired and levels of light may be adjusted. The task light system of the present invention also includes embodiments with mechanical and electronic light level controls for customizable workplace lighting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: Humanscale Corporation
    Inventors: Manuel Saez, Stefan Spoerl, Jonathan Puleio
  • Patent number: 7401942
    Abstract: This invention is for electric power line attachment apparatus to hanging luminaire including fluorescent tube luminaire assembly, and includes a female connector attached to the luminaire and a power line connector cord male segment plugged into the female segment attached to the luminaire and the female segment and male segment of the connector cord is preferably a UNIVERSAL MATE-N-LOK insulated connector which is a trademark of AMP CO., a division of Tyco Co. of Harrisburg, Pa.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: Orion Energy Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Neal R. Verfuerth, Michael J. Potts
  • Patent number: 7399109
    Abstract: A bulb assembly includes a shell, a holder, and a bulb, wherein the bulb and the holder are received in the shell, wherein the bulb has two conductive wires passing through the holder and being folded upward outsides. The shell is provided with a central plate extending to the bottom of the holder and separating two conductive wires from each other. Hence, there are two connecting types for electrical wires with conductive pins to insert into shell and contact with various position of the conductive wires that facilitates the utilization of the products.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Inventor: Chao-Mu Cheng
  • Patent number: 7387406
    Abstract: A modular light emitting diode (LED) mounting configuration is provided including a light source module having at least one LED. The module includes a heat conductive body portion adapted to conduct heat generated by the LED away from the LED. As a result, the LED can be operated with a higher current than normally allowed. Thus, LED brightness and performance is increased without decreasing life expectancy. An adhesive connects the LED module to the mount surface. A plurality of such LED modules can be pre-wired together in a substantially continuous fashion and provided in a dispenser, such as a roll or box. Thus, to install a plurality of such LED modules, a worker simply pulls modules from the dispenser as needed, secures the appropriate number of modules in place, and connects the assembled modules to a power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Assignee: Permlight Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Jagath Swaris, Scott Van Ness
  • Patent number: 7387402
    Abstract: A multiple lens LED flashlight is disclosed and comprises a quick release opening mechanism combined with a slow release battery mechanism for easy replacement of batteries. A reverse tapered handle provides a secure grip and ensures proper and safe use of the multiple lens LED flashlight. Various different lens designs refract light emitted from the LEDs and create one or more of a wide angle of projected light as well as concentrated narrow beam of light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Inventor: Chun Wai Lui (Phillip)
  • Publication number: 20080137377
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a light emitting diode (LED) light engine. The LED light engine includes at least one LED, the at least one LED having at least one first electrical terminal and at least one second electrical terminal. The LED light engine further includes an electrical cable having a first conductor and a second conductor, the at least one LED being secured to the first conductor by a first insulation displacement connector (IDC) and to the second conductor by a second IDC. The first IDC includes at least one socket for receiving the at least one first electrical terminal and a piercing portion for displacing the insulating portion and electrically contacting the first conductor of the electrical cable. The second IDC includes at least one socket for receiving the second terminal of the at least one LED and a piercing portion for displacing the insulating portion and contacting the second conductor of the electrical cable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2006
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: GELcore, LLC
    Inventors: Ronald K. Brengartner, Koushik Saha
  • Publication number: 20080094856
    Abstract: A lamp (160) comprising: a light-emitting lamp capsule (161) arrayed about a longitudinal axis (161a); a base (162) supporting said lamp capsule (161), said base (162) including a peripheral flange (163) extending normal to said longitudinal axis 161a); and electrical contacts (164) attached to said peripheral flange for providing power to said light-emitting lamp capsule (161), said electrical contacts (164) extending from said peripheral flange (163) in a direction parallel to said longitudinal axis (161a).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2006
    Publication date: April 24, 2008
    Inventors: Ceferino Garcia, Richard C. Laird
  • Patent number: 7354186
    Abstract: Automotive headlight lamps of different kinds have identical burners and upper base parts, but lower base parts of different structures. The upper base part has reference elements, for example, a securing ring, for positioning the lamp at a headlight. The lower base parts vary from one kind of lamp to another, having, for example, different connection devices for electrical contacts. In the lamp manufacturing process, a burner is inserted into an upper base part and, preferably, after having been oriented with respect to a reference element, is fixed in position. Lower base parts including the electrical connection device and having a desired shape are connected with the upper base parts. A two-piece embodiment of the lower base part is also possible, enabling electrical contact elements to be readily accommodated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics, N.V.
    Inventors: Manfred Westemeyer, Tilo Stoeckert
  • Patent number: 7318659
    Abstract: A replacement device for a light bulb includes a translucent shell and a base. The base supports a plurality of LEDs positioned so as to emit a light show through the shell. The base is configured to be received in a conventional light socket. The base also includes a compartment for receiving and securing a replaceable volatile active cartridge and a heater for enabling the device to effectively emit an active ingredient from the cartridge when the cartridge is secured in the compartment. A white light source is also provided in the shell as a source of illumination. The device can be used as a white light source, for displaying a colored light show and for volatile active emission. The volatile active may be emitted continuously when the device is used as either a white light source or for purposes of displaying a colored light show. Thus, a single device is used as a replacement for a conventional light bulb and is a combination white light source/colored light show source/volatile active source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2008
    Assignee: S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott W. Demarest, Simon M. Conway, Matthew Abbondanzio, Darren K Robling, Scott D. Walter, Jose Porchia, Jeffrey J. Wolf
  • Patent number: 7303327
    Abstract: A night light comprising a housing with a rotatable bezel mounted thereon. The housing includes a rear wall with electric blades extending outwardly therefrom for engaging in an electrical wall outlet. The bezel is rotatable about a first pivot axis. A LED array is mounted in the bezel and the array is rotatable about a second pivot axis. The second pivot axis is oriented on a different plane to the first pivot axis and preferably lies at ninety degree thereto. When the bezel is rotated about the first pivot axis, the direction of the light emitted from the LED array is changed. Because the bezel can rotate through 360°, the LED array can be rotated through 360° about the first pivot axis. The LED array can be pivoted through an arc of between 160° and 175° about the second pivot axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: American Tack + Hardware Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Steve A. Copeland, Mitchell Thompson
  • Patent number: 7301287
    Abstract: A high power light string device comprises a plug with a plug blade set, a tail receptacle, and at least an LED string, wherein a first power adaptor disposed in the plug converts an AC voltage through the plug blade set to a high DC voltage, and a second power adaptor disposed in the tail receptacle converts the AC voltage through the plug blade set to a low DC voltage. Two ends of the LED string are respectively connected to the first and second power adaptors to receive the high and lower DC voltages so that the LED string is turned on to emit light. The power adaptors are directly disposed respectively in the plug and the tail receptacle to simplify the whole light string device so as to enhance the decorating effect of the light string device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Assignee: Wang Loong Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chong Ying Lu
  • Patent number: 7293897
    Abstract: An integrated fluorescent lamp device for use with a lamp fixture including a lamp socket configured to removably receive a portion of the integrated fluorescent lamp device therein to selectively support the integrated fluorescent lamp device thereon, the integrated fluorescent device comprises an enclosure to house an electronic ballast coupled to a lamp base affixed to the enclosure having a pair of mounting members formed on opposite sides thereof configured to be removably received in the lamp socket obversely configured to secure the integrated fluorescent lamp device to the lamp fixture and a fluorescent lamp affixed to the enclosure including a spiral shaped glass tube containing a gas electrically coupled to the electronic ballast such that when a switch mounted on the lamp fixture is in the on position electricity flows from an AC power source through the lamp base, electronic ballast and fluorescent lamp to energize the gas within the spiral shaped glass tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Inventor: Fred Mendelsohn
  • Patent number: 7261437
    Abstract: An LED wedge-based lamp and method of making the lamp, where the lamp has a generally planar circuit board having one end that has electrical connections exposed thereon and a connecting part that is adapted to mechanically couple the lamp to a wedge-based lamp socket. The lamp includes an LED light engine near a second end of the circuit board, where the light engine includes plural laterally aligned LEDs whose light output mimics the light output of an incandescent lamp, such as used in automobile stop and turn signals. The lamp includes a load resistor, whose load mimics that of the incandescent lamp, on an exterior surface of the connecting part. The connecting part may be a sleeve that slides onto the circuit board. A hand grip/heat sink may be provided at the second end of the circuit board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Assignee: Osram Sylvania Inc.
    Inventors: Charles M. Coushaine, Steve C. Sidwell, Thomas Tessnow, Robert H. Colburn
  • Patent number: 7147359
    Abstract: A lamp assembly for a substrate processing chamber is described. The lamp assembly comprises a tubular body having first and second ends, a lamp element at least partially seated in the first end having a filament and first electrical connectors, transmission wires attached to the first electrical connectors, and a rigid plug flexibly positioned relative to the second end of the tubular body having second electrical connectors attached to the transmission wires. The flexibly positioned rigid plug is generally capable of a range movement in directions both perpendicular and parallel to a longitudinal axis of the tubular body. In one version, the rigid plug comprises first and second plug elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph M. Ranish, Abhijit Desai, Apollo Havelind
  • Patent number: 7121707
    Abstract: A number of different embodiments of illuminated electrical cords and outlets are provided. Some embodiments include a light source within at least one connector end of an electrical cord, with the cord having a translucent outer cover for emitting the light radially from the connector end light source. The cord may be a household electrical or extension cord, a computer power supply cord, auxiliary power cord, etc., as desired. A kit may be provided to adapt a conventional, non-illuminated cord to provide illumination therefrom. Other embodiments include electrical outlets, adapters, and power strips having a light source(s) therein, for illuminating an electrical cord installed in the electrical power source. The outlets, adapters, and power strips may include differently colored lighting, and/or multiple colored lenses for manual or automated selection of color output. Battery power may be provided, with automated switching in the event of a primary power failure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Assignee: Plastic Inventions and Patents, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert M. Currie, Jonas J. Robertson
  • Patent number: 7114841
    Abstract: An LED light engine includes a flexible electrical cable and a plurality of LEDs. The flexible electrical cable includes first, second and third electrical conductors and an electrically insulating covering for the electrical conductors. The conductors are arranged substantially parallel with one another having an insulating material therebetween. A first LED including a first lead electrically connects to the first electrical conductor and a second lead of the first LED electrically connects to the second conductor. A second LED includes a first lead electrically connected to the second electrical conductor and a second lead electrically connected to the third electrical conductor. A third LED includes first and second leads electrically connected to the second conductor. The third LED is interposed between the first LED and the second LED.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: GELcore LLC
    Inventors: Srinath K. Aanegola, Mathew Sommers, Matthew Mrakovich, Christopher L. Bohler, Michael McCoy
  • Patent number: 7108406
    Abstract: A retainer includes: a connecting piece; one or more retaining parts provided at either end of the connecting piece and having a hole into which a terminal of an electrical component fits; an arm piece extending from near the hole; and a washer that is formed on the fore-end of the arm piece and is for fitting together with the hole over the terminal, wherein the connecting piece, the retaining part, the arm piece, and the washer are formed integrally of an insulating material having good expansion/contraction properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takashi Moriyasu, Akihiro Suzuki, Takashi Saijo
  • Patent number: 7108396
    Abstract: A modular light emitting diode (LED) mounting configuration is provided including a light source module having a plurality of pre-packaged LEDs. The module includes a heat conductive body portion adapted to conduct heat generated by the LEDs away from the LEDs. As a result, the LEDs are able to be operated with a higher current than normally allowed. Thus, brightness and performance of the LEDs is increased without decreasing the life expectancy of the LEDs. An adhesive connects the LED module to the mount surface. A plurality of such LED modules can be pre-wired together in a substantially continuous fashion and provided in a dispenser, such as a roll or box. Thus, to install a plurality of such LED modules, a worker simply pulls modules from the dispenser as needed, secures the appropriate number of modules in place, and connects the assembled modules to a power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: Permlight Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Jagath Swaris, Scott Van Ness
  • Patent number: 7108403
    Abstract: A portable light emitting assembly includes a housing having a front side, a back side and a peripheral wall extending between the front and back sides. The front side has a cavity extending therein. A panel has a first side and a second side. The panel is removably mounted in the cavity. A plurality of light emitters is attached to the second side of the panel. A first electrical conduit is mounted on the back wall and a second electrical conduit is mounted on the first side of the panel. The first electrical conduit is positioned for electrically coupling with the second electrical conduit when the panel is positioned within the cavity. The second electrical conduit is electrically coupled to the light emitters. A power supply is mounted within the housing. The power supply is electrically coupled to the first electrical conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Inventors: John Walters, Tina R. Walters
  • Patent number: 7086755
    Abstract: The invention relates to a positioning structure of a frame with a bulb assembly, which utilizes a positioning structure provided on the frame and the bulb holder of the bulb assembly for easily engaging both firmly. Hence, the light string with many bulb assemblies can be positioned with the patterned frame conveniently that obtains predicted purpose for decoration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Inventor: Fong-Shi Lin
  • Patent number: 7080934
    Abstract: A cap for a container, having a light source contained within the cap, and a pair of conductors adapted to be in contact with a source of current exterior to the cap, the conductors being disposed so as to conduct current to illuminate the light source when they are in contact with the source of current exterior to the cap. The light source is desirably an LED. The cap fits a holder, which has means for detachably contacting the cap, desirably having spring action, and conductors providing a source of current to the pair of conductors in the cap when the cap is in contact with the holder. The holder desirably has multiple portions for use with at least a multiplicity of containers having such caps. The invention also includes a display rack, comprising means, e.g. LEDs, for directing light onto the top of each of a plurality of containers having a translucent cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Inventor: James R. Zarian
  • Patent number: 7064674
    Abstract: A modular warning signal light system comprising at least one support. The at least one support having at least one module receiving port. The module receiving ports constructed and arranged to removably receive the support engagement member of a module. Each module having at least one visible side. The at least one visible side having at least one light emitting diode light source engaged thereto. The at least one light emitting diode light source, module and support all in independent electrical communication with a controller. The controller constructed and arranged to selectively activate the at least one support, the at least one module, the at least one light emitting diode light source, and any combinations thereof to create at least one warning light signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2006
    Assignee: 911EP, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. Pederson
  • Patent number: 7052170
    Abstract: Lighting system mountable on a surface and including one or more miniature light sources and a multi-part housing including recesses for accepting the light sources and an electrical supply line. The light sources can include light emitting diodes. Separate parts of the housing are mated in a manner to fix the position of the electrical supply line between them, and may be formed with a recess that receives an asymmetrically shaped electrical supply line in only one possible orientation. Similarly, the recesses receiving the light sources may be shaped such that electrical connections with proper polarity are assured. Either or both parts of the housing may be fastened to the surface with adhesives and/or optional holes for receiving pins, nails, screws, bolts or the like. The lighting system is particularly suitable for emergency, railing, landscape and vehicle illumination applications, and may be powered by batteries and renewable energy sources.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Inventor: Roman F. Striebel
  • Patent number: 7052171
    Abstract: A lighting assembly has an elongated housing which contains a plurality of light emitting diodes that send light from one side of the housing. Connectors at the ends of the housing are provided to connect the lighting assembly into standard sockets of a fluorescent light fixture that has been modified to power the light emitting diodes. At least one of the connectors has a releasable holding mechanism that allows the housing to be rotated with respect to the sockets to aim the light is a desired direction and then hold the housing in that orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Assignee: EMTEQ, Inc.
    Inventors: Phillip E. Lefebvre, David Delory Driscoll, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7033065
    Abstract: A retainer for securing a lamp having a connector. The retainer includes a pedestal having a circumference. A socket for receiving the connector is defined by the pedestal and includes a perimeter extending beyond the socket. A retainer is operably connected to the pedestal and is linearly confined between a first position and a second position. The retainer traverses the perimeter of the socket in its first position. An inhibitor capable of being secured about the circumference of the pedestal constrains the first member in its first position to impede removal of the lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: The Coleman Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Benson Chung-Pun Leung, Ambrose Shing-Yin Leung
  • Patent number: 7018080
    Abstract: Shaped neon light spark plug connectors which include a continuous length of neon tubing fitted with electrodes at each end and configured to extend between and connect to the spark plug and coil of a motorcycle engine. The spark plug connectors are each characterized by a continuous, shaped neon tube light source that pulsates and flickers with operation of the engine at low engine speeds and displays a substantially continuous glow of a selected color at higher engine speeds. A specially designed jig is provided for bending the heated neon tubing into the desired configuration and fitting it between the spark plug and the coil locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Inventor: Kevin L. Alexander
  • Patent number: 7011540
    Abstract: A socket assembly includes a base, two first connection poles on the base and each having a first lateral hole, an assembly block having a central through hole to allow extension of the two first connection poles and pairs of first connection blocks formed on one side of the assembly block to sandwich the side hole. Each first connection block has a first threaded hole. At least one socket device has a threading for connection with an electronic element, a contact for providing power to an electronic element and two pairs of second connection blocks, and securing devices extending through the aligned second threaded hole and the first threaded hole as well as the first lateral hole and the second threaded hole to secure engagement between the at least one socket device and the assembly block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Inventor: Tien-Tse Hu
  • Patent number: 6971775
    Abstract: A light module for an interior rearview mirror assembly is positionable at least partially within the mirror casing. The light module includes an illumination source, a housing generally surrounding the illumination source, and a cover generally encasing the illumination source within the housing. The light module includes an electrical connector for electrically connecting the light module to an electrical conductor of the mirror assembly when the light module is positioned at least partially within the mirror casing. The light module may include a user actuatable input for activating and deactivating the illumination source. The electrical connector may comprise conductive elements that are molded within a polymeric housing. The conductive elements may include light contacts for electrically contacting the illumination source and may be configured to support the illumination source. The illumination source may comprise a festoon light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Assignee: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventors: Niall R. Lynam, John O. Lindahl, Rick Mousseau
  • Patent number: 6959996
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a lighting apparatus to be used on an umbrella pole or similar upright structure with a convenient and concealed mounting mechanism and a slip-resistant vertical adjustment mechanism, designed to provide the user with an easily adjustable and removable/attachable source of light, wherein the means by which it is removed or attached is attractively concealed from the casual observer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2005
    Inventor: Ken Ip
  • Patent number: 6945665
    Abstract: A ceiling lamp junction box/lamp rod folding installation structure comprises a junction box and lamp rods hinged to the junction box. The junction box has a plurality of portals arrayed along its circumferential surface. Aligned with the portal a carrier mount having a reticulation prefabricated coupling section on each of its two ends, thereby providing for the insertion of a pin to movably dispose a swivel block and the insertion of a pin through the other end of the carrier mount to constitute a latch mechanism. The swivel block has a rack surface along one side, the notches of the rack surface provide for engagement with a side corner of a check block. As such, the lamp rods and the junction box in the hinged state provides for the turning of the lamp rods to reduce the space occupied during shipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Inventor: Pi-Hua Hsien