Signs Patents (Class 362/812)
  • Patent number: 6663255
    Abstract: A re-usable, self-illuminating sign includes a translucent plastic photoluminescent display panel, disposed within a display body, the display panel formed by distributing a photoluminescent powder uniformly throughout the plastic. A chemiluminescent light stick serves as a light source for the sign, which is in the form of a cylinder with a triangular cross section. When the light stick is exhausted, it may be removed from the display body and replaced by a new light stick. The photoluminescent display panel receives the light from the light stick, and retransmits the light uniformly throughout the display panel. A mask disposed in front of the display panel contains cutouts providing the the text and/or graphics of the sign.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Inventor: Domenic Carito
  • Patent number: 6658774
    Abstract: An illuminated identification system for providing efficient identification of a building structure in various light conditions. The illuminated identification system includes a housing unit, one or more light bulbs positioned within the housing unit, an identifying plate containing an indicia, a transparent cover plate, and a photocell switch unit electrically connected to the light bulbs. The light bulbs illuminate the interior of the housing unit when the photocell switch unit detects reduced outdoor lighting. The indicia may be formed within the identifying plate by coloring or by cutting out one or more slots forming the indicia.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Inventors: Keith F. Munter, Matthew L. Kempers, Earl F. Munter
  • Patent number: 6657393
    Abstract: A vehicle lamp has light sources having light emitting diodes that are vertically and horizontally disposed in the form of a square. A first LED group is disposed in the central position of the light source and is turned on in the tail lamp lighting mode. A second LED group surrounds the first LED group, and is turned on together with the first LED group in the stop lamp lighting mode. Thus, the light source appears as if the LEDs became luminous around the central position of the light source in any lamp lighting mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kazunori Natsume
  • Publication number: 20030217493
    Abstract: An address illumination assembly includes first and second end elements, a sensor element, and at least one alphanumeric element. The first and second end elements are configured to secure together the sensor element and the alphanumeric elements. The sensor element includes a sensor cover, a sensor base, and a sensor printed circuit board positioned therebetween. The sensor base includes electrical contacts to pass electric current from the sensor element to another element. The sensor printed circuit board includes an electrical circuit that includes a photo sensor, a bipolar switch, a potentiometer switch, and associated electrical elements and wiring. The alphanumeric element includes an alphanumeric cover, an alphanumeric base, and an alphanumeric light board positioned therebetween. The alphanumeric base of the alphanumeric element includes electrical contacts to pass electric current from the alphanumeric element to another element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2002
    Publication date: November 27, 2003
    Inventor: Glenmore A. Golding
  • Publication number: 20030218878
    Abstract: A modular light emitting diode (LED) mounting configuration is provided including a light source module having a plurality of pre-packaged LEDs arranged in a serial array. The module includes a heat conductive body portion adapted to conduct heat generated by the LEDs to an adjacent heat sink. A heat conductive adhesive tape connects the LED module to the mount surface. 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. 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: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2003
    Publication date: November 27, 2003
    Applicant: Permlight Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Jagath Swaris, Scott Van Ness
  • Patent number: 6637911
    Abstract: A grave marker and lighting apparatus and method of use having an interchangeable illuminated form which may take the form of a lighted candle, a lighted Christmas tree, a lighted floral arrangement, a lighted flag, or any other illuminated form to commemorate an occasion or season. The apparatus having a photovoltaic cell to charge internal batteries and a photoconductive cell to signal electronic circuitry to turn on the illuminated form during nighttime hours. The apparatus further includes a unique plate extension mounting portion for attachment to a tombstone and base extending anchors for ground securing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Inventor: Jesse D. Sittner
  • Patent number: 6637904
    Abstract: A wireless quick release lighting system with portable tripod support powered by either disposable or rechargeable batteries. The tripod is easily collapsed and stored with the light, mounts and accessories and includes a quick release connection for attaching brackets that support a plurality of accessories which include various light designs, gun support, gun mount, window mount, and magnetic mount. The tripod includes reflectors attached to the legs, and lighting accessories attachable to one or more of the tripod legs. The light designs may include flashing or blinking emergency lights and/or strobes for emergency scene use, utility lights, spotlights, flashing spotlight, text and warning lights. The accessories attachable to the mounting brackets include gun barrel support and gun mount for hunting purposes law enforcement, military, in combination with a binocular support, night vision scope or spotting scope mount and light for target practice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Inventor: Refugio E. Hernandez
  • Publication number: 20030179577
    Abstract: Cold cathode fluorescent lamps (CCFLs), associated devices and methods of use, and more specifically, exit signs, traffic signals, informational and other signage and lighting devices utilizing CCFL-type devices are provided with novel connectors, mounting brackets, housings, associated electronics and other accessories to provide new and unique lighting devices and methods of using them, all of which offer significant savings in cost, operating expense, power consumption and retrofit convenience.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2003
    Publication date: September 25, 2003
    Inventor: Brent Marsh
  • Patent number: 6609813
    Abstract: A housing and mounting system for a strip lighting device, particularly a lighting device of the kind in which multiple light emitting diode (LED) light sources are arranged at spaced intervals within an elongate tubular housing that is translucent and arranged to diffuse, disperse or scatter the light from the LED light sources. The tubular housing has two longitudinally extending keys integrally formed on the exterior of the tube. The interior of the tube has longitudinally extending formations for supporting mounted LED light sources within the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Assignee: Lumileds Lighting, U.S. LLC
    Inventors: David Field Showers, James Barry Quantrell
  • Patent number: 6607412
    Abstract: An illuminated sign designed to be viewed from a horizontal line of sight of an observer, the sign comprising: a frame, a partially transparent face thereon, tubing mounted therein and having an inside radius (r), and a single or plurality of concavely-curved, reflective channels each being substantially semi-cylindrical and having a radius (R), and positioned at a distance (d) from the luminous tubing; wherein the improvement comprises each channel having an angle of wrap (&bgr;) approximately equal to about 70% to about 150% of the value that solves the equation 1 sin ⁢ ( β 2 ) + 2 ⁢ ( R r - d r - 1 ) ⁢
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Inventors: Lance Mueller, Patrick F Gleeson
  • Patent number: 6604840
    Abstract: A lighting apparatus for use with a name plate sign includes an elongate frame having a planar bottom with an upper portion defining an interior space. The frame bottom includes a bracket for attachment to the name plate. A rechargeable battery is mounted within the interior space of the frame and is electrically connected to a plurality of light sources depending from the frame bottom. A thin film solar panel is positioned atop the upper frame portion and is electrically connected to the battery to repeatedly recharge it as the panel collects solar energy. A photoelectric light sensor is mounted to the frame and permits current to flow from the battery to the light sources when a sensed level of ambient light is less than a predetermined level. Therefore, the name plate is illuminated when insufficient ambient light is available.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Inventor: Marion H. Watson
  • Patent number: 6604834
    Abstract: A device and method for making an electroluminescent surface illuminator device comprising electroluminescent panels built into a running board, nerfbar, step or stepside for illuminating the foot/step placement for vehicles, planes, boats, and the like. The panels comprise an electroluminescent element, a transparent panel sealing said electroluminescent element therein, and wiring for connection to an external DC/AC power inverter placed between a flexible top panel and a rigid foundational base panel commensurate in size and shape with the flexible top panel. The electroluminescent panels can be illuminated by remote control in a vehicle or a parking light switch, a headlight switch or a dome light switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Inventor: Blake H. Kalana
  • Publication number: 20030147256
    Abstract: A unique, solid flat panel lighting emitting luminaire has been created that utilizes a light source remote from the luminaire coupled with a hollow light pipe. The light panel luminaire is fed light flux via a hollow light pipe system into one or two edges of the flat panel. The light panel has imbedded irregular tapered tetrahedron light guides that emit light in a uniform controlled fashion over the length of the emitting surface. The subject lighting luminaire provides light emitted from an adjacent High Intensity Discharge (HID) light source. The luminaire is specifically designed to provide light over a large surface for backlit billboard applications without the limitations of traditional fluorescent light source light boxes. The luminaire does not require any maintenance to its interior as the light source is remote from the emitting surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2002
    Publication date: August 7, 2003
    Applicant: Opti-Flux Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Edward Robert Kraft
  • Patent number: 6601984
    Abstract: An LED illuminating device that includes a light-guiding member formed of a translucent material; an LED element formed of at least one diode disposed on one end of the light-guiding member for emitting light therein; a light-emitting region along the length of the light-guiding member; and a plurality of grooves having a rectangular cross-section and formed in the circumferential surface of the light-guiding member at appropriate intervals in the axial direction. The present invention also provides an LED illuminating appliance of various configurations that employ the LED illuminating device as a light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Assignee: Estec Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yutaka Yamamoto, Atsushi Yuzuki, Kazuaki Saito
  • Publication number: 20030142510
    Abstract: A self-illuminating device, having a light source part and a light guide part. A light source is enclosed in an enclosure, which further accommodates a power source, to provide a voltage to the light source and an integrated circuit. The integrated circuit adjusts and controls the power source supplied to the light source, so as to control brightness and color of the light source. The light guide part is preferably in a form of a plurality of light guide strips. Each of the light guide strips has one end received in the enclosure and coupled to the light source and the other end extending therefrom. Due to the light guide property, the light received at one end can be transmitted to the exposed other end of the light guide strips. Preferably, the exposed ends are arranged to display a desired pattern, design or logo.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2002
    Publication date: July 31, 2003
    Inventor: Mao Yongzhong
  • Publication number: 20030099105
    Abstract: A lighting apparatus for use with a name plate sign includes an elongate frame having a planar bottom with an upper portion defining an interior space. The frame bottom includes a bracket for attachment to the name plate. A rechargeable battery is mounted within the interior space of the frame and is electrically connected to a plurality of light sources depending from the frame bottom. A thin film solar panel is positioned atop the upper frame portion and is electrically connected to the battery to repeatedly recharge it as the panel collects solar energy. A photoelectric light sensor is mounted to the frame and permits current to flow from the battery to the light sources when a sensed level of ambient light is less than a predetermined level. Therefore, the name plate is illuminated when insufficient ambient light is available.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2001
    Publication date: May 29, 2003
    Inventor: Marion H. Watson
  • Patent number: 6569522
    Abstract: A light storage and reflecting device comprising a reflecting layer, base layer, light storage layer, and coating layer is arranged such that a thermocompression-bonding colored sheet of the base layer is bonded to the surface of the reflecting layer by a thermocompression bonding process, the light storage layer is formed by ink containing light storage pigment on the colored sheet, and all layers collectively are covered with the coating layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Inventor: Shoji Yamaguchi
  • Publication number: 20030090891
    Abstract: A cup includes a transparent body having an inner and an outer wall to define an annular hollow space between them, a bottom sealing a lower end of the body and the annular hollow space, an open-bottomed chamber formed below the body to communicate with the annular hollow space via an opening provided on the bottom, a luminous strip with printed pictures, words or patterns enclosed in the annular hollow space, a driving circuit mounted in the chamber to electrically connect to the luminous strip and parallelly connected to a vibrating-type switch, and a lower cover detachably closing the chamber. When the cup is vibrated to make the vibrating-type switch, the luminous strip is lightened for the pictures, words or patterns to produce cold light that is refracted by the outer wall of the body to show three-dimensional images on the cup.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2001
    Publication date: May 15, 2003
    Inventors: Chun-Hsien Wang, Ting-Yue Hwu
  • Patent number: 6558021
    Abstract: A light emitting diode module for attaching to a surface of a sign, which includes a mounting plate having top and bottom surfaces, a plurality of light emitting diodes mounted to the top surface of the mounting plate, a housing having top and bottom surfaces, a first electrical connector attached to the bottom surface of the mounting plate and electrically connected to the plurality of light emitting diodes, a second electrical connector attached to the top surface of the housing for engaging with the first electrical connector, a third electrical connector attached to the housing and electrically connected to the second electrical connector, and a power supply for providing a voltage to the third electrical connector. As the bottom surface of the mounting plate is placed on the top surface of the housing, the first electrical connector engages with the second electrical connector for electrically connecting the plurality of light emitting diodes to the third electrical connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: Leotek Electronics Corporation
    Inventors: Chen H. Wu, Han-Jen Chuang
  • Publication number: 20030079387
    Abstract: A sign or ornament comprising an etched or otherwise formed translucent light scattering design, lettering, or shape within a matrix contained in the body of a sign or ornament, said sign or ornament having included therewith at least one opening, said opening having contained therewith at least one light source and preferably a light-emitting diode, wherein light emerging from the light source and preferred light-emitting diode incident upon the light scattering translucent design lettering or shape of the sign or the ornament will be enhanced to a much greater extent than any light emanating from the transparent portions of the sign/ornament.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2001
    Publication date: May 1, 2003
    Inventor: Anthony Derose
  • Patent number: 6550937
    Abstract: A transparent base panel has embedded therein a series of uniformly, sized, shaped and spaced louvers that extend outwardly from the base panel at an angle &bgr;, to optimize light flowing in a direction from an inner surface toward an outer surface while minimizing an amount of light flowing from the outer surface to the inner surface. This louvered screen has application in making outdoor illuminated signs more readable, in screening sunlight out of a compartment such as a room, and in deflecting and/or tinting light from a direct or indirect lighting source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Inventor: Philip John Glass
  • Publication number: 20030063463
    Abstract: A channel letter lighting unit according to the present invention comprises a printed circuit board (PCB) having a plurality of linearly mounted light emitting elements. Input wires transmit a power signal to the PCB to illuminate the plurality of light emitting elements, and output wires transmit the power signal from the PCB. The PCB is mounted in the extrusion and the light emitting elements transmit light away from the extrusion. The extrusion promotes the dissipation of heat from the light emitting elements. A mounting mechanism is included for mounting the extrusion within a housing. A further embodiment according to the invention comprises a plurality of channel lighting units electrically connected to one another so that a power signal applied to the lighting system is transmitted to each of the plurality of lighting units. A still further embodiment according to the invention comprises an illuminated channel letter system having a housing in the shape of a letter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 3, 2003
    Applicant: SLOANLED, INC.
    Inventors: Thomas C. Sloan, Bruce Quaal
  • Patent number: 6536913
    Abstract: An LED display apparatus capable of reliably preventing damage caused by static electricity without worsening the visual recognition, in which an the display surface of the LED display apparatus is mounted an electrically conductive plate having a thickness nearly equal to, or smaller than, the height of the light-emitting portions L in a direction Z perpendicular to the display surface and having holes 3a perforated at positions corresponding to the positions of the light-emitting portions L on the display surface. The electrically conductive plate 3 is grounded, and a current due to the electrostatic discharge flows from the electrically conductive plate 3 into ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Akihito Yajima, Masahiro Murata, Hitoshi Takahashi
  • Publication number: 20030053308
    Abstract: An illuminating mailbox address indication device includes a generally rectangular shaped housing mounted on a top portion of a mailbox wherein at least one longitudinal wall is removable. Enclosed within the housing is a light means powered by at least one rechargeable battery energized by a solar cell mounted upon the housing top wall in a recess formed therein. A photosensitive cell operates a switch to permit the light means to illuminate when a pre-determined threshold has been exceeded relevant to the amount of ambient light present around the mailbox (i.e., at night). At least one of the longitudinal housing side walls is translucent and further supports indica stenciled thereupon which represents the address of the property associated with the mailbox.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventor: Wayne Cathel
  • Publication number: 20030048631
    Abstract: The invention relates to a chemiluminescent light element having at least two chambers, filled with an oxalate solution and an activator solution, or variations of known chemiluminescent light materials including dyes. The oxalate solution is placed within a tight-sealed pouch made of thin aluminum foil lined on its interior side by a polymer, for instance a polyolefin, and so forms the first chamber. This latter is enclosed in a bigger tight-sealed pouch made of translucent polymer film forming the second chamber, which also contains the liquid activator. The outer pouch consists of two polymer films sealed together along their periphery and contain a ball able to pierce the inner pouch by manual action from the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2001
    Publication date: March 13, 2003
    Inventor: Jacques Ladyjensky
  • Publication number: 20030043571
    Abstract: In a light-emitting device comprising an organic electroluminescent device including one or more organic thin layers (at least including a light-emitting layer) which are sandwiched between a transparent first electrode formed on a light-transmitting substrate and a second electrode, the light-transmitting substrate is formed so as to include parts for reflecting light emitted by the organic electroluminescent device (corresponding to a pixel) and thereby preventing the light from entering adjacent pixel areas. The light-transmitting substrate is formed of material having a refractive index of 1.65 or more or a refractive index higher than that of the light-emitting layer. A surface of the light-transmitting substrate opposite to the first electrode is provided with a light-diffusing function for avoiding total reflection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Applicant: NEC Corporation
    Inventors: Satoru Toguchi, Atsushi Oda, Hitoshi Ishikawa
  • Publication number: 20030043590
    Abstract: An apparatus including at least one LED mounted to a printed circuit board, a reflector including at least one heat stake, and a mounting plate comprising at least one aperture for receiving the at least one heat stake. The at least one LED is positioned between the reflector and the mounting plate such that the at least one LED is held in position when the at least one heat stake is received within the at least one aperture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventors: Jeremy A. Walser, Kenton J. Ypma, Daniel J. Bostwick, John K. Roberts, Robert Steel, Steven J. Miskelley, Darin D. Tuttle
  • Patent number: 6519140
    Abstract: A bezel assembly for a computer enclosure includes a bezel and a hinge capable of hingedly joining the bezel to the computer enclosure. A computer system includes an enclosure, a bezel, and a hinge capable of hingedly joining the bezel to the enclosure. A method of replacing a first component with a second component in a computer system enclosure having a hinged bezel includes pivoting the hinged bezel away from the computer system enclosure and removing the first component from the computer system enclosure. The method further includes inserting the second component into the computer system enclosure and pivoting the hinged bezel toward the computer system such that the hinged bezel is adjacent the computer system enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2003
    Assignee: Sun Microsystems, Inc.
    Inventors: David J. Kim, William W. Ruckman, Milton C. Lee, Dimitry Struve
  • Patent number: 6511195
    Abstract: Horizontal street lamp (10) of an oblong concave structure housing a source of light, with a downward-facing mouth in whose center is applied a frame (60) with a cavity into which a substantially vertical plate (80) can be freely inserted, said plate being illuminated by a source of light to create a sort of road sign, or for purposes of advertising, decoration generally.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2003
    Assignee: Fonderal S.r.l.
    Inventor: Angelo Marinacci
  • Patent number: 6508564
    Abstract: In this surface light source device, light is incident from a plurality of point light sources 2 arranged on a one side end surface of a light guide plate 1, is reflected on a light reflecting surface 11 on a rear surface of the light guide plate 1, and is emitted from a front surface of the light guide plate 1. The point light sources 2 comprise white light emitting diode elements. Two white light emitting diode elements out of six of the white light emitting diode elements having chromaticity outermost from a center of an aimed chromaticity range in opposite hue directions are arranged in an approximately center of a group of the white diode elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Assignee: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Satoshi Kuwabara, Hiroshi Yamashita, Toru Yamamura, Nobuhito Nishida, Masashi Ochiiwa, Michiaki Satou
  • Patent number: 6508578
    Abstract: An indication lamp for, for instance, aircraft passenger cabins comprising light sources housed in lamp chambers defined by a housing and a front cover. Translucent indication portions of the shapes indicative of non-smoking and fasten-seatbelt signs in red, for instance, are formed in the front cover; and the light sources, each comprising a set of light emitting diodes of different colors, such as green and red, are installed behind the translucent indication portions so that each light source emits a mixture of colors that is similar to an incandescent light, thus illuminating the sings with an enhanced visibility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Assignee: Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takashi Yoda, Kunio Toyota
  • Patent number: 6505956
    Abstract: A reeled L.E.D. lighting system has a plurality of rigid circuit boards, each circuit board having a plurality of light emitting diodes dispersed on one face thereof, the diodes being electrically connected between positive and negative terminals of their respective circuit board, the circuit boards being electrically connected in parallel with each other and structurally connected in series with each other by a plurality of pairs of flexible conductors connecting the positive and negative terminals of the circuit boards, the structural series connection providing a chain of the circuit boards and conductors, the chain being spirally wound about a spool of a reel for every dispersion into and attachment to a light housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Assignee: Lektron Industrial Supply, Inc.
    Inventors: G. Robert Priddy, Kevin W. Hannah, James C. Slayden
  • Patent number: 6499866
    Abstract: An emergency lighting fixture combining the functions of an illuminated sign such as an exit sign and an emergency lighting unit integrated into one housing onto which one or more emergency lights can be mounted at predetermined locations of the housing, the combined emergency lighting structure providing both exit location information and ambient emergency lighting in a single cooperatively operating device. The present device replaces bulky prior combinations of discrete exit signs and emergency lighting units which have been assembled together essentially as individual devices without integration into a single housing or without substantial integration of operational features, the housing of the present device being only slightly larger than standard exit signage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Assignee: Acuity Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Campbell Logan, Andrew Edward Masters, Edwin Lewis Hull
  • Patent number: 6491412
    Abstract: An illuminated sign having an LED as a light source as claimed. A housing has a plurality of internal surfaces wherein at least one of the internal surfaces is a translucent surface. A reflective layer covers each of said internal surfaces except the translucent surface. At least one LED is positioned between the internal surfaces such that the illumination field of the LED is in a direction substantially opposite that of the translucent surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: Everbrite, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Bowman, Steve Flaherty, Ferenc Mohacsi
  • Publication number: 20020181232
    Abstract: A LED symbol signal with LEDs arrayed to correspond to a desired symbol. Light from the LEDs is directed onto corresponding optical segments of a multiple collimating zone element and directed into a forward direction/distribution. A mask defines the desired symbol. The optical segments and or a diffusion surface on the cover or multiple collimating zone element(s) diffuses the display aspect, obscuring the individual LEDs. A diameter of the optical features of the diffusion surface is smaller than a diameter of the optical segments. The LED symbol signal may be configured for retrofitting into an incandescent lamp signal housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2002
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventor: Patrick Martineau
  • Patent number: 6488385
    Abstract: Device for shadowless backlighting of large-area displays comprising at least two two-dimensional main light sources which are each surrounded by a frame, at least two frame sections abutting one another. One or more auxiliary light sources are mounted at least on a part of the mutually abutting frame sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2002
    Assignee: Patent-Treuhand-Gesellschaft fuer Elektrische Gluehlampen
    Inventor: Michael Reithmeier
  • Patent number: 6486790
    Abstract: A luminous signalling device comprises a body made of transparent synthetic material, basically in the form of a plate having two larger faces set opposite one another, at least one of which carries an image. A plurality of LED devices of the SMD type which emit white light is coupled externally to at least one of the walls that define the peripheral edge of the aforesaid plate body. The arrangement is such that the rays of white light coming out of the LED devices undergo multiple total reflections within the plate body, which thus functions as a light guide. In areas corresponding to selected areas of the image, the face of the plate body is made up of diffusing optical elements designed to diffuse outwards the rays of light that are incident on said areas within the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Assignee: C.R.F. Societa Consortile Per Azioni
    Inventors: Piero Perlo, Piermario Repetto, Silvia Farina, Daniele Pullini, Vito Lambertini
  • Patent number: 6481131
    Abstract: An aesthetically striking memento comprising an edge-lit translucent panel having an inscribed design, and a free-standing compact base unit with integral LED edge-lighting system. The compact base unit includes an LED light source for reflecting light upward into the translucent panel. The plaque generally comprises an acrylic panel inscribed with a reverse design on its rear face with text, logos and/or graphics and which seats within a recessed cavity in the compact base unit. A reflective material lines the floor of the cavity and surrounds a series of LEDs spaced lengthwise along the slot at the bottom of the cavity. An integral battery or A/C power receptacle provides power to the LEDs through a switch located in the compact base unit. When illuminated, the LEDs emit light upward into the translucent acrylic panel. The light is reflected forwardly from the inwardly-inscribed design and outward to a viewer, thereby accentuating the inscribed indicia carried on the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Inventors: Amanda Gianotti, Michael David, Wayne Kirchner
  • Patent number: 6481870
    Abstract: An emergency lighting fixture includes a frame employing an indicator on the front of the frame, an illumination lamp installed in the inside of the frame, a laser projector exposed to the front of the frame from the inside of the frame, an angle adjusting unit for adjusting a projecting angle of the laser projector, and an emergency power supplying battery, installed in the inside of the frame, for impressing a power supply into the illuminating lamp and the laser projector in response to a signal of a fire sensor in the event of fire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Inventor: Jae-Sul Son
  • Publication number: 20020167809
    Abstract: A transparent base panel has embedded therein a series of uniformly, sized, shaped and spaced louvers that extend outwardly from the base panel at an angle &bgr;, to optimize light flowing in a direction from an inner surface toward an outer surface while minimizing an amount of light flowing from the outer surface to the inner surface. This louvered screen has application in making outdoor illuminated signs more readable, in screening sunlight out of a compartment such as a room, and in deflecting and/or tinting light from a direct or indirect lighting source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2001
    Publication date: November 14, 2002
    Inventor: Philip John Glass
  • Patent number: 6478450
    Abstract: A light system, including a channel sign having a cover, walls and a bottom; a power source; a wire harness coupled to the power source; a flexible conductor strip coupled to the wire harness, the flexible conductor strip defining solder pad openings and the flexible conductor strip coupled to the channel sign, the flexible conductor strip being foldable; a socket mounted to the flexible conductor strip, the socket including pin receptacles in electrical contact through the solder pad openings; and a light having conductive pins, the conductive pins disposed in the pin receptacles and a method of installing lights including mounting a flexible conductor strip to a structure; supplying power to the flexible conductor strip; electrically connecting lights to the flexible conductor strip to power the lights; and exchanging burned out lights with operable lights without removing the flexible conductor strip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Inventor: Zdenko Grajcar
  • Publication number: 20020159252
    Abstract: This application relates to a novel identification and flashlight device incorporating a flag disposed to extend laterally from a transparent pole-like projection extending from the end of the battery case of a hand held miniature flashlight assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2001
    Publication date: October 31, 2002
    Inventor: Lono J. Kasina
  • Publication number: 20020159257
    Abstract: A light system, including a channel sign having a cover, walls and a bottom; a power source; a wire harness coupled to the power source; a flexible conductor strip coupled to the wire harness, the flexible conductor strip defining solder pad openings and the flexible conductor strip coupled to the channel sign, the flexible conductor strip being foldable; a socket mounted to the flexible conductor strip, the socket including pin receptacles in electrical contact through the solder pad openings; and a light having conductive pins, the conductive pins disposed in the pin receptacles and a method of installing lights including mounting a flexible conductor strip to a structure; supplying power to the flexible conductor strip; electrically connecting lights to the flexible conductor strip to power the lights; and exchanging burned out lights with operable lights without removing the flexible conductor strip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2001
    Publication date: October 31, 2002
    Inventor: Zdenko Grajcar
  • Publication number: 20020159245
    Abstract: Integrated illumination systems employing illumination devices formed onto substrates are described. According to one embodiment, the display system combines an electroluminescent lamp, a photocell, a power supply receiving energy from the photocell and discharging electrical energy to the EL lamp, and, optionally, a control switch to manage the intervals of electrical energy discharge to the EL lamp for illumination; the components of the d lay system combining to provide illumination for an object, such as a sign. According to another embodiment, a photocell, power supply and light emitting device are each formed onto a single substrate to form a totally self-contained, self-powered illuminating device. According to another embodiment, an electroluminescent lamp is provided to form an illuminated decal. The EL lamp may be configured to have a front illumination surface and a back mounting surface, with a decal backing attached to the back mounting surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2002
    Publication date: October 31, 2002
    Inventors: Matthew Murasko, Patrick J. Kinlen
  • Patent number: 6471388
    Abstract: An optical module for edge lit display signs utilizes energy efficient miniature cold cathode fluorescent lamps. Lampholders that mechanically and electrically couple the lamps include resilient sockets and clamps shaped to engage the outer surface of the resilient sockets. A preferred optical module intended as an illumination source for edge-lit emergency exit signs has two spaced apart cold cathode fluorescent lamps and an optical reflector configured to increase the light coupled to display surfaces of the edge-lit sign.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Assignee: BJI Energy Solutions LLC
    Inventor: Brent Marsh
  • Patent number: 6467208
    Abstract: An overhead lighted exit sign and mounting includes a substantially rectangular box shaped sign housing with an electric light therein. A substantially cylindrically shaped two part hollow hinge is mounted on the top wall of the housing with one part fixed to the housing. The second part of the hinge is secured to a plate adapted to be secured to an overhead electrical box. Apertures are formed in the top wall of the housing, the two parts of the hinge and the plate to allow electrical wires to pass from the electrical box to the electric light within the sign without being exposed. The hinge allows the sign to pivot out of the way in the event that it is struck by an object being carried therebelow without the sign being broken from its support or otherwise being damaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Inventor: David Patterson
  • Publication number: 20020145878
    Abstract: A lighted stanchion cover for use with a stanchion for the purpose of providing illumination in dark conditions. The cover assembly comprising an elongated tubular body and a lighting assembly. The lighting assembly further comprising a light source and a power source. The elongated tubular body has an open end, a closed end, and an interior cavity. The interior cavity of the tubular body is dimensioned to receive a stanchion through its open end. A lighting assembly is disposed within the tubular body in a manner that does not interfere with the reception of the stanchion into the interior cavity of the tubular body. The lighted stanchion cover can be adapted to receive power from an integrated or external source. The tubular body can be customized to display messages or advertisements that can be easily seen in dark conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2001
    Publication date: October 10, 2002
    Inventor: Frank Venegas
  • Publication number: 20020139023
    Abstract: An aesthetically striking memento comprising an edge-lit translucent panel having an inscribed design, and a free-standing compact base unit with integral LED edge-lighting system. The compact base unit includes an LED light source for reflecting light upward into the translucent panel. The plaque generally comprises an acrylic panel inscribed with a reverse design on its rear face with text, logos and/or graphics and which seats within a recessed cavity in the compact base unit. A reflective material lines the floor of the cavity and surrounds a series of LEDs spaced lengthwise along the slot at the bottom of the cavity. An integral battery or A/C power receptacle provides power to the LEDs through a switch located in the compact base unit. When illuminated, the LEDs emit light upward into the translucent acrylic panel. The light is reflected forwardly from the inwardly-inscribed design and outward to a viewer, thereby accentuating the inscribed indicia carried on the panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2001
    Publication date: October 3, 2002
    Inventors: Amanda Gianotti, Michael David, Wayne Kirchner
  • Patent number: 6457270
    Abstract: An emergency sign including a vertically extending sign body having a lower panel portion and an upper container portion. The panel portion includes laterally spaced right and left panels where at least one of the panels has a stencil forming the sign display. The upper container portion is in optical communication with the display and forms a longitudinally extending container. A light module disposed within the container portion of the housing has multiple light emitting diodes for illuminating the display. A swivel mounting assembly pivotally connects the container portion of the housing to a mounting plate assembly which receives a mechanical mounting member of the external electrical supply to mount the sign to a structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Inventors: Frederick W. Stark, III, Willfred Goldschmidt, Kurt P. Kowal, Jeff M. Mullally, Irving Schaffer
  • Patent number: 6455767
    Abstract: A weather resistant flag is provided which includes a flagstaff, a flag cloth mountable on the flagstaff, solar cells mounted on at least one of the flag cloth and the flagstaff, and an energy storage device for storing energy generated by the solar cells. The solar cells can be in the form of solar cell strips and can be transparent in the event that they are mounted over business advertising symbols that may be provided on the flag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Inventor: Hermann-Frank Müller