With Heater Or Refrigerator Patents (Class 362/92)
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Patent number: 8308313Abstract: A machine for applying ultraviolet light to curable coatings on floors and other wide area surfaces. A housing encloses rotating arms carrying UV lamps spinning about a central axis. Rotation is caused by reactive momentum from heated air jets coming from fans in barrels blowing air over heated wires, resembling hand held hair dryers, with the barrels supported under rotating arms. The heated wires are ballast for the lamps, providing thermal and electrical stability. The rotating lamps cover an annular pattern which, when advanced forwardly, becomes a linear swath, almost as wide as the housing. A floor, or similar surface, can be cured in a few minutes.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2009Date of Patent: November 13, 2012Assignee: Adastra Technologies, Inc.Inventor: George Wakalopulos
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Patent number: 8291816Abstract: The invention provides a drawer type cooking device having an operation unit disposed on an upper portion of a drawer body so as to increase the height of the drawer body within a cooking device body as much as possible, capable of facilitating power supply and signal transmission between the control unit within the cooking device body and the operation unit when the drawer body is opened and closed. Slide mechanisms 4 disposed on left, right and bottom portions enabling the drawer body 2 to be moved into and out of the cooking device body 1 are composed of conductive materials, so as to provide a slidable state with constant conduction. By transmitting data via serial communication and supplying power to the operation unit from the cooking device body 1 to the drawer body 2, it becomes possible to dispose the operation unit on a door 2a being opened and closed.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2009Date of Patent: October 23, 2012Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Masayuki Iwamoto, Masamitsu Kishimoto
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Publication number: 20120262906Abstract: An LED light (1), in particular a refrigerator light or the like, having at least one LED (2), having a lens (4) for the light that is emitted by the at least one LED (2), and having an opaque light housing (5) which encloses the lens (4), characterized in that the lens (4) has a transmissive design, and the opaque light housing (5) and the transmissive lens (4) are jointly formed by a two-component plastic injection-molded part (6).Type: ApplicationFiled: April 12, 2012Publication date: October 18, 2012Applicant: FLEXTRONICS INTERNATIONAL KFT.Inventors: Frank Wimbert, Philip Hupfer
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Patent number: 8277065Abstract: A system to light a cavity 19 in an appliance. A source or light emitter 27 is mounted on a circuit board 32, so that the light emanating from said source or light emitter 27, is concentrated into a light beam using an optical collimator system 28 or in some cases a Fresnel arrangement; wherein the foregoing elements may be found outside a door 14, which allow access into the cavity; thus the light beam exiting the optical collimator 27 or Fresnel arrangement travels a distance though air between the optical collimator system 27 or Fresnel arrangement and the upper face of the light guide 29 which is placed on the door 14, the light guide 29 transports the luminous flux towards a notch which diverts said luminous flux directing into the cavity's 19 interior.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2010Date of Patent: October 2, 2012Assignee: Mabe, S.A. DE C.V.Inventors: Oscar Tomas Camarillo Fernandez, Jose Alejandro Orozco Vazquez, Antonio Lopez Juarez
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Patent number: 8272755Abstract: An object is to provide a showcase in which appropriate illumination can be realized by an LED illumination apparatus having a high durability against turning ON/OFF and capable of securing a predetermined illumination intensity even under an environment at a low temperature. The showcase in which the inside of a display chamber configured to display commodities is illuminated by an LED illumination apparatus includes a person detecting sensor which detects the approaching of any person, and a control apparatus which adjusts the illumination intensity of the LED illumination apparatus, and the control apparatus gradually increases the illumination intensity of the LED illumination apparatus in a case where the person detecting sensor detects the approaching of the person.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2008Date of Patent: September 25, 2012Assignee: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tetsuya Oketani, Atsushi Todoroki, Yoichi Amari, Sakumi Shibusawa
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Publication number: 20120230014Abstract: A fireplace assembly includes an outer enclosure and an inner enclosure partitioned into first and second compartments. The inner enclosure is positioned within the outer enclosure. A light source is arranged within one of the first compartment and the second compartment and at least one of a lighting element and a heating element is included. Light emitted from the light source is emitted into portions of the lighting element and heating element to luminate portions of the same positioned within the first chamber.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2012Publication date: September 13, 2012Inventors: Ross Morrison, Robert Sloan, Gary Butler, Richard Donald Berg
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Patent number: 8258444Abstract: A front cover for a vehicle lighting fixture is attached to the front opening part of the vehicle lighting fixture having a lamp body and a light source installed in the lamp body. A part of the surface of the front cover opposed to the light source includes a heating element having a three-dimensional curved surface. The heating element includes a mesh pattern having intersections of a large number of grids formed of conductive metallic filaments and a first electrode and a second electrode formed at both opposed ends of the mesh pattern. The projection shape of the outline of the entire mesh pattern is formed in a rectangular shape having the longitudinal direction, for example, between the first electrode and the second electrode.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2009Date of Patent: September 4, 2012Assignee: Fujifilm CorporationInventors: Sumio Ohtani, Tadashi Kuriki
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Publication number: 20120209763Abstract: The individual locker assembly for refrigerators is intended for use in the workplace for employees to secure their perishable foods and beverages. The locker assembly is also suitable for installation in refrigerators in medical offices and the like for the secure storage of controlled medications and the like that must be refrigerated. The locker assembly has a series of panels and dividers installable in an existing refrigerator unit, with the panels and dividers defining a series of individual lock boxes, each having its own lockable door. Alternatively, a specially configured refrigerator has an open front and a series of individual lock boxes installed therein. Each lock box is in contact with other boxes and/or the walls, floor, and top panels of the refrigerator, and is thermally sealed thereto. Each lock box has its own lockable door. The refrigerator includes a system for automating the lock box rental transactions.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 14, 2011Publication date: August 16, 2012Inventor: Joseph ZABBATINO
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Patent number: 8242431Abstract: An automated de-icing system for a low power lighting device having a light emitting face. The system includes one or more detectors for detecting conditions under which ice, frost or snow are likely to occur on the light emitting face. The system further includes a heat transfer system for transferring heat to the light emitting face and a controller for receiving data from the detector(s) and determining a likelihood of ice, frost or snow forming on the light emitting face. The controller engages the heat transfer system if the likelihood of ice, frost or snow forming on the light emitting face exceeds a threshold.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2009Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Assignee: GE Lighting Solutions, LLCInventors: Eden Dubuc, Dan Mihai, Christian Auger
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Patent number: 8235539Abstract: The invention provides an elongated lighting fixture with multiple light emitting diodes (LEDs) arrayed in two groups that are angled to each other. The fixture provides an extremely broad light emitting angle and includes an elongated housing having a pair of side walls with at least one fin to dissipate heat. Each side wall has a support member extending upward at angle from the side wall, wherein the side walls terminate at a central wall. A generally transparent cover is connected to the housing and extends between opposed ends of the housing. A first elongated fastener and a second elongated fastener are utilized to mount a first group of LEDs and a second group of LEDs to the first support member and the second support member, respectively. First and second interconnection board assemblies are affixed to respective support members beneath the group of LEDs by the first and second fasteners.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2007Date of Patent: August 7, 2012Assignee: ElectraLED, Inc.Inventors: James Thomas, David Lynd, Gary Gatesman, Jim Mosier, Bryan T. Warner
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Patent number: 8238015Abstract: A method comprising generating an optical beam with a laser, filtering the optical beam to select a desired wavelength with an etalon positioned in a path of the optical beam, heating the etalon to an operational temperature using a heater, monitoring the operational temperature of the etalon with a resistive thermal device disposed in or on a thermally conductive frame bonded to the etalon, and applying feedback control of the heater based on the monitoring to select the desired wavelength.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2011Date of Patent: August 7, 2012Assignee: Emcore CorporationInventors: Marc Finot, Mark McDonald, Andrew Daiber
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Publication number: 20120182716Abstract: The present invention discloses a backlight module, comprising a back plate, a reflection plate, a cold cathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL), an optical film, a panel and a front frame, wherein the backlight module further comprises a heating device, and the heating device is disposed between the reflection plate and the CCFL. When the backlight module of the present invention is used in a cold area, the heating device is electrically powered in advance to generate heat and to heat the CCFL, and temperature of the CCFL can be raised to a normal initiation temperature which is above ten degrees below zero. Accordingly, the CCFL can avoid usage of over-power voltages in low temperature initiation thereof, and the life of the CCFL is less affected.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 2, 2010Publication date: July 19, 2012Applicant: SHENZHEN CHINA STAR OPTOELECTRONICS TECHNOLOGY CO.,LTD.Inventor: Pangling Zhang
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Patent number: 8215795Abstract: A lighting assembly (9) for a standard in-store display shelf (2). The standard shelf is mounted on a standard in-store shelf bracket (4), having in-store header mounting hardware (6), which standard in-store display shelf (2) includes a conventional metal spring clip (10) for mounting a standard light fixture. The lighting assembly has a mount (11) for spring mounting to clip (10). The mount has rails (16-19), which form a pair of board channels (19A-B). A circuit board (20) slide mounts into the board channels. The circuit board serves as a mount for an array of Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs).Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2009Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Assignee: POP Displays USA, LLCInventor: Matthew Pichel
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Patent number: 8217306Abstract: A conventional vehicle lighting device entails a problem on appearance. A vehicle lighting device of the present invention is provided with a wire heater, an extension portion, and a power-feeding portion. An adhesive part is provided at a part of one face of an extension film of the extension portion. Of such one face of the extension film of the extension portion, a letterpress printed-film pattern of a rough portion is provided in a range excluding the adhesive part. As a result, the vehicle lighting device of the present invention provides an ability to reliably prevent an extension film of the extension portion from sticking to a lamp lens by means of the letterpress printed-film pattern of the rough portion; prevent an appearance failure or abnormality exerted by the sticking of the extension film of the extension portion to the lamp lens; and improve its appearance.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2009Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Assignee: Ichikoh Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Kotoka Inoue, Katsuhiro Murahashi, Hiroto Tokunaga
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Publication number: 20120170247Abstract: A Light Emitting Diode light system for a domestic appliance includes a Light Emitting Diode light panel mounted on a first wall of the appliance. Light Emitting Diodes are mounted along a periphery of the panel for emitting light through a first surface of the panel. A second reflective surface is formed opposite the first surface of the panel. A diffuser is provided for diffusing light emitted by the Light Emitting Diodes. A power supply source connected to the Light Emitting Diode panel for providing power to the panel. A method of illuminating the interior of a microwave oven includes providing a first Light Emitting Diode panel mounted on a first wall of the microwave; providing a second Light Emitting Diode panel mounted on the first wall of the microwave; providing a diffuser for diffusing light emitted by the light emitting diodes; and providing a power supply source connected to the Light Emitting Diode panel to provide power to the panel.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 5, 2011Publication date: July 5, 2012Inventor: Terry Lien Do
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Patent number: 8201977Abstract: The invention relates to a refrigerated display case with an illuminated support member or “mullion” that efficiently transfers heat generated by at least one light emitting diode (LED) to warm and maintain door seals. The invention further relates to a low-profile, elongated LED light fixture that is retrofitted to the display case mullion to provide efficient illumination. The LED light fixture includes an elongated frame having a central hub extending longitudinally along the frame. A pair of opposed arms extending upwardly at an angle from the central hub, wherein the terminus of each arm has a curvilinear configuration that defines a receiver. At least one leg extends rearward from the central hub. Two legs are spaced a distance apart to define an elongated central cavity that receives a fastener for securement of the fixture to the vertical support within the display case.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2009Date of Patent: June 19, 2012Assignee: ElectraLED, Inc.Inventors: James Thomas, Vladimir Volochine
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Publication number: 20120140440Abstract: An inductive lighting assembly for an appliance is provided. The appliance includes a cabinet, a liner installed in the cabinet, and at least one shelf mounted in the cabinet. The inductive lighting assembly includes a coil locator channel recessed into the cabinet, a primary coil mounted proximate to the coil locator channel, a shelf having a projection coupled thereto; the projection configured to be at least partially inserted into the coil locator channel to separate a metallic object placed on the shelf from the primary coil by a predetermined distance, and a secondary coil mounted in the projection, the primary coil transferring power to the secondary coil through inductive power transfer, the secondary coil being electrically connected to a light assembly installed in the appliance. A refrigerator including an inductive lighting system is also provided herein.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 6, 2010Publication date: June 7, 2012Applicant: ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC.Inventors: Robert Dam, Michael W. Hartley, Karl S. Morgan, Richard R. Herzog, Chong B. Wong, John G. Drelicharz
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Publication number: 20120138590Abstract: A lighting system for a cooktop appliance having a plate and a burner assembly positioned beneath the plate. The lighting system includes at least one light source positioned adjacent a light entry portal of the plate. The at least one light source is configured to direct light through the plate via the light entry portal and emit the light from a top surface of the plate adjacent the burner assembly. A controller is communicatively coupled to the burner assembly and the at least one light source. The controller is configured to activate the at least one light source when at least one of the burner assembly is activated and a utensil on the burner assembly is heated.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 4, 2010Publication date: June 7, 2012Inventors: Daniel V. BROSNAN, Brian Schork, Brvan Beckley, Mariano Filippa, Ryan Turner, Timothy Shaffer
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Publication number: 20120133262Abstract: A household appliance having a housing defining an interior space. In an exemplary embodiment, the housing may include a plurality of internal walls, wherein at least one of the plurality of internal walls is made of a glass material. Further, the interior space may be under a refrigeration condition.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 29, 2010Publication date: May 31, 2012Applicant: BSH HOME APPLIANCES CORPORATIONInventors: Joachim Grützke, Andrew Roberson
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Patent number: 8186844Abstract: A refrigeration appliance includes an appliance housing and a liner within the housing, defining an interior storage chamber at least partially enclosed by the liner, and providing a storage chamber rear wall, a first storage chamber sidewall, and a second storage chamber sidewall. The first storage chamber sidewall has a plurality of openings through the first storage chamber sidewall. The second storage chamber sidewall has another plurality of openings through the second storage chamber sidewall. A plurality of lighting devices illuminates the interior storage chamber. Each of the lighting devices is mounted within a respective one of the openings and emits light toward the storage chamber rear wall providing a showcase lighting effect. Each of the lighting devices includes a cover located in the interior storage chamber and a device housing located within the respective one of the openings.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2009Date of Patent: May 29, 2012Assignee: Electrolux Home Products, Inc.Inventor: David L. Hall
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Publication number: 20120127696Abstract: A signature lighting system for an appliance includes a carrier, a light guide disposed adjacent the carrier, a light source disposed adjacent the light guide and in electrical communication with a source of electrical energy to selectively energize the light source, wherein the light source emits light into the light guide, and a light housing received in the carrier and substantially enclosing the light source, wherein at least one of the light housing and the carrier militates against a relative motion between the light guide and the carrier.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 22, 2010Publication date: May 24, 2012Applicant: VISTEON GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventor: Andrew Z. Glovatsky
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Patent number: 8172416Abstract: A combined radiator and lighting assembly is provided. The combined assembly includes at least a first radiation member and a second radiation member each powered by an energy source, and a reflective member including an at least partially ring-shaped concave reflective surface facing at least the first radiation member which includes an at least partial ring shape for distributing energy to an at least partially ring-shaped zone. The second radiation member includes a lamp base assembly, adapted to be received in a lamp socket assembly, to provide illumination or other forms of radiation, with concentration in a focal zone or area, or dispersion over the focal zone or area.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2007Date of Patent: May 8, 2012Assignee: Transcanasia International (Holdings) LimitedInventor: Paul Kam Ching Chan
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Publication number: 20120106129Abstract: A lighting system for an appliance is disclosed. In one embodiment, the lighting system includes a light shelf including a substantially planar light guide having a support member for releaseably coupling the light shelf to the appliance, a light injector coupled to a first end the light shelf, the light injector including a substrate having at least one light source disposed thereon and a housing for at least partially enclosing the at least one light source, wherein light emitted from the at least one light source is directed into the light guide, and an end piece coupled to a second end of the light shelf opposite the first end.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 3, 2010Publication date: May 3, 2012Applicant: VISTEON GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventors: Andrew Z. Glovatsky, Christopher W. Gattis
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Publication number: 20120103001Abstract: An illuminated dispenser assembly for a consumer appliance panel includes a dispenser recess area located in the panel. The dispenser recess area is defined by walls including a bottom wall, a back wall and a top wall. The bottom wall has a top surface. A dispenser is located in the panel. The dispenser has an outlet extending through one of the walls of the dispenser recess area to dispense a substance from an interior of the consumer appliance to the dispenser recess via the outlet. A lighting element includes a light source located below the top surface of the bottom wall for illuminating a target area in the bottom wall of the dispenser recess. The target area is located relative to the dispenser outlet so as to identify a location for placement of a receptacle for receiving the substance from the dispenser. A related refrigeration appliance incorporating such an illuminated dispensing target is also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 2, 2010Publication date: May 3, 2012Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANYInventors: Andrew Reinhard Krause, Christopher George Bissig, Lorina June White, Jarvis Ward, Jose Tomas DeLuna, David C. Calvert
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Publication number: 20120106130Abstract: An illuminating beverage container cooler. The sleeve of the cooler is made of a flexible thermally insulating material, such as neoprene, and the base of the cooler is made of a rigid material with lights and necessary batteries installed within a containment compartment in said base. The lights, when turned on, result in the portion of the bottle above the insulating cylindrical sleeve sidewalls being illuminated. The illuminating cooler also functions as a flashlight when the beverage container is removed.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 28, 2011Publication date: May 3, 2012Inventor: David M. Beaudette
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Patent number: 8167461Abstract: A method of manufacturing a light emitting device includes separating a plurality of regions in a film with a thickness not greater than 0.5 millimeters to form a plurality of legs continuous with a body of film, folding the plurality of legs such that each leg terminates in a stack of bounding edges, disposing the stack of bounding edges proximate at least one light source such that light from the at least one light source propagates through the legs and the body by total internal reflection, and treating the film to form a plurality of light scattering features therein such that frustrated totally internally reflected light exits the light emitting device at a visible light emitting area and the light emitting area is at most barely visible when not illuminated by the at least one light source.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2011Date of Patent: May 1, 2012Assignee: Flex Lighting II, LLCInventor: Anthony J. Nichol
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Patent number: 8142038Abstract: A refrigerator has a door, a lampshade and a lamp set, internal and external clamping walls and a seal retainer formed on the frame of the door. The lampshade and the lamp are set on the inner side of the frame of the door. The lamp is installed on the inner side of the doorframe, so that on the one hand the inner space of the refrigerator is not occupied by the illuminating device, and on the other hand, damage to the lamp caused by placing or taking goods relative to the refrigerator is prevented. Also, the lamp is installed on the door, and the light generated by the lamp irradiates inwardly to enhance the illuminating effect.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2009Date of Patent: March 27, 2012Assignees: Haier Group Corporation, Quingdao Haier Special Freezer Co., Ltd.Inventors: Biao Li, Jingchun Wang, Kailong Ren, Fumin Wu, Wen Zhang
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Publication number: 20120057328Abstract: There is disclosed a composite lighting unit 10 suitable for retro-fitting or for a DIY application, on the ceiling (14) of a room such as a bathroom. The unit includes a base (12) for mounting on the ceiling, an electric power connector (30) for connection to an existing light batten (16), light sockets (34) for holding light globes (38), sockets (42) for holding room heaters (44), and a fan (48) for dispersing steamy air in the room by directing the air across the ceiling. The unit also includes a deodoriser (64) for deodorising the room. The unit is adapted to be activated by a single electric switch (26) with the different components being actuated by selected switching actions on the switch.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 31, 2010Publication date: March 8, 2012Inventor: Steven Neorcsik
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Patent number: 8128251Abstract: The present invention provides an integrated lighting apparatus including a main frame constructed by at least a first frame wall, a second frame wall adjacent to the first frame wall and a third frame wall adjacent to the second frame wall and opposite to the first frame wall. The first, second and third frame walls define an interior space for receiving a lighting device therein. The main frame is integrated with a heat-dissipating portion extending from a first side of the first frame wall. The interior space is covered with the lampshade. Through the heat-dissipating portion, the lighting apparatus is detachably combined with the refrigerated display cabinet in a simple and convenient manner.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2009Date of Patent: March 6, 2012Assignee: Industrial Technology Research InstituteInventors: Chuan Tim Huang, Hung Chun Li, Yeu Torng Yau, Li Ling Lee
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Publication number: 20120051030Abstract: A refrigerator is adapted to include a plurality of ultraviolet light bars, which may be adjustably connected to sufficiently radiate UV light throughout the refrigerator compartment in connection with a control box and power cord which operate to control the bacterial level present on and around foodstuffs being stored therein. A series of UV light bars are capable of being arranged and plugged into one another by daisy chain to allow for a timer-controlled illumination of UV light to radiate throughout the compartment. Sensors in the control box signal the timer, and a wire ribbon extending from the control box provides a connection to the external power source without significantly affecting the seal of the refrigerator door.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 25, 2011Publication date: March 1, 2012Inventor: Edward Johnson
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Publication number: 20120033406Abstract: The invention relates to an oven (1), especially to a domestic oven, having a cooking cavity (2) and means (3) for illuminating the cavity, wherein the means (3) for illuminating comprise a housing (4) for receiving a lamp (5), wherein at least a part of the housing (4) has a glass element (6) which is transparent for the light emitted by the lamp (5). To get a heat protection of the lamp or to support applications like pyrolysis, the invention is characterised in that the glass element (6) is covered by a heat reflecting layer (7).Type: ApplicationFiled: April 1, 2010Publication date: February 9, 2012Applicant: ELECTROLUX HOME PRODUCTS CORPORATION N.V.Inventors: Mirjam Zybok, Camila Siewert, Markus Junkersfeld
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Patent number: 8109301Abstract: A refrigerator having a dispenser that includes an outlet and that is configured to dispense content through the outlet and along an output flow path. The refrigerator also includes a detection unit configured to detect user activity that is indicative of a desire to fill a container with content using the dispenser. The refrigerator further includes an optical system that is configured to, in response to detecting the user activity, direct a beam of light along at least a portion of the output flow path of the dispenser to assist a user in positioning a container to receive content dispensed along the output flow path.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 2009Date of Patent: February 7, 2012Inventor: Jason Adam Denise
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Publication number: 20120014090Abstract: The present invention relates to a refrigerator, and more particularly, to a refrigerator can display state information on a storage space, direct a light to an inside of the storage space when the door is opened, requires no additional lighting enabling to utilize a storage space to the maximum and to produce a high quality appearance.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 15, 2011Publication date: January 19, 2012Applicant: LG ELECTRONICS INC.Inventor: Chunhee Hong
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Publication number: 20120000455Abstract: The invention in particular relates to an oven illumination (4) for illuminating the interior of a muffle (1) of an oven. Inter alia for improving lifetimes of light sources (6) of the oven illumination (4), a glass lens (7) arranged downstream the at least one light source (6) is provided. The glass lens (7) comprises a cavity (8) at least reducing heat conduction towards the at least one light source (6).Type: ApplicationFiled: March 26, 2010Publication date: January 5, 2012Applicant: ELECTROLUX HOME PRODUCTS CORPORATION N.V.Inventors: Fabienne Reinhard-Herrscher, Karl Leidig
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Publication number: 20110304254Abstract: A temperature-controlled case is provided including a frame and a door coupled to the frame and pivotable about a pivot axis between a closed position and an open position. The door includes a passage that interchangeably receives a door closure control assembly at one of the top or the bottom of the door, and an electrical connectivity system at the other of the top or the bottom of the door. The electrical connectivity system includes a first electrical connector coupled to the door, and a second electrical connector coupled to the frame so that the first and second electrical connectors are engaged when the door is coupled to the frame. The door closure control assembly includes a torsion spring that is fixed at one end to the door and fixed at another end to the frame, so that when the door is opened the torsion spring provides an increasing force to urge the door toward the closed position.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 9, 2011Publication date: December 15, 2011Inventor: Steven O. Stubblefield
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Publication number: 20110304253Abstract: A temperature controlled display device includes a body portion at least partially defining an interior space for storing refrigerated or frozen objects therein. The display device includes a frame coupled to the body portion, where the frame defines at least one opening and a door is coupled thereto for movement between a closed position and open position to permit access to the interior space through the opening. The frame includes two parallel vertical members and two parallel horizontal members. A lighting device is coupled to an interior surface of at least one of the vertical members, to illuminate the interior space. A thermally conductive member is disposed within the vertical member and extends at least partially along the length of the vertical members to transfer heat from the lighting device to an exterior surface of the vertical member.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 4, 2011Publication date: December 15, 2011Inventors: Larry C. Howington, Larry W. Eget
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Patent number: 8070309Abstract: An object is to provide a showcase capable of improving the appearance of an illumination apparatus and also capable of improving the effects of illumination by the illumination apparatus. In the showcase, the inside of a display chamber formed in a main body thereof is illuminated with the illumination apparatus. The illumination apparatus includes: a plurality of LED illumination components equipped with LED elements; a holding member attached to the main body to hold the LED illumination components; a wiring connector provided between the LED illumination components; and a reflecting plate covering the connector.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2009Date of Patent: December 6, 2011Assignee: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.Inventors: Atsuo Otsuki, Yoichi Amari, Tetsuya Oketani, Sakumi Shibusawa
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Patent number: 8070305Abstract: A refrigerated merchandiser including a case that defines a product display area adapted to support product. The case includes a frame that has at least one mullion assembly defining an opening into the product display area, and a door that is positioned over the opening. The mullion assembly includes a mullion, a light assembly that is coupled to the mullion and that has a light source for illuminating at least a portion of the product display area, and a reflective surface that is coupled to at least one side of the mullion assembly and that extends along a length of the mullion. The reflective surface is visible from outside the case to increase visibility of product within the product display area.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2009Date of Patent: December 6, 2011Assignee: Hussmann CorporationInventor: Gregory Scott Bratton
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Patent number: 8057054Abstract: A lighting system for a vending machine is provided. The lighting system includes an LED light source extending along a first inner surface of the vending machine and a reflective surface extending along a second inner surface of the vending machine. The reflective surface is capable of reflecting light emitted by the light source in one direction in order to provide light to the interior of the vending machine from multiple directions.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2008Date of Patent: November 15, 2011Assignee: Crane Merchandising Systems, Inc.Inventor: Scott B. Hudis
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Publication number: 20110235307Abstract: The invention relates to a lighting system intended to light the interior of cabinets of the type used in commercial refrigerators, having glass doors. The system is based on a series of three interconnected LEDs mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The assembly is inserted into a diffusion tube, the shape of which enables optimized light emission and is designed for sections installed inside cabinet door frames. The LEDs can be powered by a current or voltage source and the manner in which the LEDs are housed along the inner periphery of the door enables the optimized lighting of the items on display.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 22, 2008Publication date: September 29, 2011Applicant: VENDO DE MEXICO, S.A. DE C.V.Inventor: Francisco Pineda Hernandez
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Publication number: 20110233196Abstract: A light-permeable hot plate includes at least one cavity filled with illuminant. The illuminant in the cavity can be excited to illuminate by an electromagnetic excitation field. The hot plate can be part of an induction hob, with the at least one cavity being arranged in a region of a cooking zone. The electromagnetic excitation field is provided to transfer energy into a household appliance which is arranged on the cooking zone.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2009Publication date: September 29, 2011Applicant: BSH BOSCH UND SIEMENS HAUSGERÄTE GMBHInventors: Miguel Angel Buñuel Magdalena, Francisco Javier Ester Sola, Jose-Ramon Garcia Jimenez, Damaso Martin Gomez, José Ignacio Peña Torre, Daniel Sola Martinez
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Patent number: 8021009Abstract: A domestic appliance includes an interior that can be illuminated by a light source and is surrounded by walls and a door, wherein the interior is illuminated by the light source from the direction of the door, in particular wherein the door has at least one glass area, light from the light source is coupled into the glass area from the direction of an edge, with the result that the light is at least partially guided in the glass area, and the glass area has elements through which some of the light which is guided in the glass area is conducted into the interior. This manner of illumination prevents articles in the interior from having a silhouetted appearance.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2006Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeraete GmbHInventors: Sebastian Knöll, Gerhard Nüssler
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Publication number: 20110174008Abstract: There are provided a refrigerator and a dispenser for the refrigerator. A light emitting unit is provided to emit light toward manipulation member of the dispenser so that the dispenser can be conveniently used and have a better aesthetic appearance.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 7, 2011Publication date: July 21, 2011Applicant: LG ELECTRONICS INC.Inventor: Pansoo KIM
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Publication number: 20110162402Abstract: Provided is a rail assembly fixed to the sides of a storage compartment of a refrigerator, with rail housings supporting rail members that insert and extrude a storage container, and a light source fixed to a rail housing to indicate whether a certain function is being performed in the storage compartment and function as a lamp that illuminates the inside of the storage compartment.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 1, 2007Publication date: July 7, 2011Inventor: Jin-Woo Park
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Publication number: 20110164399Abstract: A shelving assembly (500) includes a pair of sheet metal sidearms (506) having ladder connectors (508) releasably coupled to cantilever ladders (504). An LED strip (520) having spaced apart LEDs is positioned immediately behind a refrigerator shelf (516). A rear form (522) is used for securing the LED strip (520) to a refrigerator shelf (516). The LED strip (520) is powered through electrical contact modules (524) which conductively connect to low voltage power strips (534).Type: ApplicationFiled: June 4, 2009Publication date: July 7, 2011Inventors: John Patrick Driver, Matthew Mcmillin, Bradley M. Nall, Jason Robert Yochum
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Publication number: 20110163089Abstract: A cooker is provided. According to an operation of the cooker, light having color different from each other is emitted into a cooking chamber according to whether it is in a cooking mode for cooking a food or a keep-warm mode for keeping the food warm. Thus, a user may easily confirm whether the food is cooked or kept warm. In addition, the food may be kept warm through a further simple structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 27, 2009Publication date: July 7, 2011Inventors: Yong-Ho Park, Jun-Hyun Park, Wang-Lim Lee, Dae-Eun Kim, Dong-Heon Lee
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Publication number: 20110149552Abstract: The present invention relates to a lamp holder with bayonet lock that provides interior illumination in kitchen equipment or similar devices, particularly in domestic ovens, and it is characterized in that it consists of (i) plastic or porcelain body (2) with screw ring housing (10) and terminal rivet hole (12) on its inner surface, and mounting recesses (13), mounting protrusions (13a) and positioning wedge (11) on its outer surface; (ii) mounting frame (3) with circular inner and outer diameter and located on the plastic or porcelain body (2), and having springy mounting pins (14) seated at an angle of 180° from each other on its inner side, springy mounting hooks (14a), locking pins (15) and locking springs (16); and (iii) glass enclosure (1) located on the mounting frame (3) shaped in almost semi-spherical form and equipped with a glass enclosure flange (7) on the bottom part, fixing slots (8) in pairs and locking track (9) below the glass enclosure flange (7).Type: ApplicationFiled: July 30, 2009Publication date: June 23, 2011Inventor: Suavi Atalay
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Publication number: 20110149551Abstract: A system to light a cavity 19 in an appliance. A source or light emitter 27 is mounted on a circuit board 32, so that the light emanating from said source or light emitter 27, is concentrated into a light beam using an optical collimator system 28 or in some cases a Fresnel arrangement; wherein the foregoing elements may be found outside a door 14, which allow access into the cavity; thus the light beam exiting the optical collimator 27 or Fresnel arrangement travels a distance though air between the optical collimator system 27 or Fresnel arrangement and the upper face of the light guide 29 which is placed on the door 14, the light guide 29 transports the luminous flux towards a notch which diverts said luminous flux directing into the cavity's 19 interior.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 16, 2010Publication date: June 23, 2011Inventors: Oscar Tomas Camarillo Fernandez, Jose Alejandro Orozco Vazquez, Antonio Lopez Juarez
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Patent number: 7959313Abstract: A refrigerator which has a main body cabinet forming at least one storage chamber therein, the refrigerator includes: an illuminator provided in the storage chamber and illuminating an inside of the storage chamber; an input unit provided to set at least one of a color, a hue saturation and a brightness of the illuminator; and a controller storing a setting value set through the input unit and controlling the illuminator according to the setting value.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2008Date of Patent: June 14, 2011Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Eun-seong Park, Young-gwi Park
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Publication number: 20110134627Abstract: The present invention is an integrated control system for use with various home appliances, such as washing machine, dryers, refrigerators, dishwashers, and the like. In a first embodiment of the present invention, the integrated controls are incorporated into a polycarbonate clear door panel, and incorporate proximity switches and controls to provide control and operation of the applicance. Light emitting diodes (LEDs) are optionally incorporated into a door handle for the appliance in an area out of sight such that only the light produced by the LEDs is seen and illuminates a handle for opening the door of the appliance. Additionally, opaque glass technology may be incorporated into one or more surfaces of the appliance which enables an opaque panel to become transparent to view the content of the interior of the appliance, such as a refrigerator.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 8, 2010Publication date: June 9, 2011Applicant: Magna International Inc.Inventors: Bradley Ray Hamlin, Steven Martin Kowalski, John Joseph Bleau