Illuminated Patents (Class 40/431)
  • Patent number: 10729267
    Abstract: Apparatus and associated methods relate to an artificial tree including a trunk with first tree branches extending from the trunk to above the floor, a base configured with apertures adapted to retain second tree branches extending from the base and covering the space between the floor and the first branches, and a light source configured to illuminate the first and second branches. In an illustrative example, the apertures may be tubes configured for fiber optics. The light source may be, for example, fiber optics illuminating branches inserted in the tubes, permitting full-flow appearance branches to spread out, covering the base. Some examples may employ additional illumination sources configured in the base below the apertures to shine through a color wheel offset from the trunk center.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2020
    Assignee: National Christmas Products LLC
    Inventor: Michael M. McRae
  • Patent number: 10713982
    Abstract: An improved three-dimensional sign includes three light boxes each having a light box housing, a light or lights, a light diffuser, and a bezel configured to releasably secure a graphical image in contact with the respective diffuser. Each of the three light box housings and the respective diffusers are formed with respective selectively-shaped peripheries. The first, second, and third light boxes are selectively positioned with respect to each other within a fixture housing that provides a dark background for the backlit graphics, for the three selectively shaped peripheries and graphics to create a particular inverse cube illusion. The structural arrangement also provides the illusion that the statically displayed advertisement graphic(s) is/are directed towards and follows the consumer as he/she approaches and then walks past the sign. The dark environment is provided by a housing of sufficient depth, having a dark surface that is preferably black.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2020
    Inventors: Jeffrey Sherretts, Jamison Sherretts
  • Patent number: 10373536
    Abstract: An improved three-dimensional sign includes three light boxes each having a light box housing, a light or lights, a light diffuser, and a bezel configured to releasably secure a graphical image in contact with the respective diffuser. Each of the three bight box housings and the respective diffusers are formed with respective selectively-shaped peripheries. The first, second, and third light boxes are selectively positioned with respect to each other within a fixture housing that provides a dark background tot the backlit graphics, for the three selectively shaped peripheries and graphics to create a particular inverse cube illusion. The structural arrangement also provides the illusion that the statically displayed advertise lent graphic(s) is/are directed towards and follows the consumer as he/she approaches and then walks past the sign. The dark environment is provided by a housing of sufficient depth, having a dark surface that is preferably black.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2019
    Inventors: Jeffrey Sherretts, Jamison Sherretts
  • Patent number: 9395061
    Abstract: A candle-like lighting device includes a candle shell, a stand and a reflector. The candle shell is positioned above the stand at which the reflector is secured and extends inside the candle shell. A control circuit, an illuminator as surrounded by the reflector and a rotating unit are provided within the stand. The candle shell, spinning as driven y the rotating unit, is provided with a void area. Thereby a light from the illuminator transmits through the void area of the reflector for projecting the shape of the void area on a surface of the spinning candle shell in order to achieve the dynamic visual effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2016
    Inventor: Chin-Sheng Yang
  • Patent number: 9200769
    Abstract: A decorative system that provides malleable decorative rods that bend, illuminate, and extend from an electrical base to form a decorative object, such as a Christmas tree. The malleable properties of the rods provide sufficient flexibility to bend and manipulate until a desired shape and dimension is achieved. The rod comprises at least one protrusion to help enhance a desired decorative effect such as pine needles that provide the look and feel of garlands. The rod also includes at least one illumination for illuminating the system. A base portion, from which the at least one rod extends, provides power to the rod. The base portion includes a threaded metal base that joins with a matching electrical socket, similar to an Edison base screw. At least one aperture and a cover provide a foundation into which the rods may be secured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2015
    Inventor: Liddo S. O'Briant-Teague
  • Patent number: 8904682
    Abstract: A compact merchandise display system for showcasing an item has a base with a transparent or translucent cover located on a base top surface. The system has a rotating platform located on the base top surface having a first light. The system has a control system having a microprocessor, a sensor, a power supply, a power switch, a speaker, a microphone, and a memory component located in the microprocessor. A sound is recorded by the microphone and stored into the memory component of the microprocessor. Upon activation of the microprocessor via the sensor, the sound is played via the speaker, the rotating platform is energized via a platform motor, and the first light is activated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Inventor: Pablo L. Lavilla
  • Patent number: 8695246
    Abstract: A display apparatus includes: a cylindrical casing which is rotatably driven; and a plurality of curve-arranged displays which are installed inside the casing and have the same number as a plurality of slits formed in the casing, wherein the curve-arranged displays include a light housing which is an approximately semi-cylindrical column having a hollow structure, and a plurality of display device substrates installed on an arc-shaped side surface of the approximately semi-cylindrical column of the light housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Izushi Kobayashi, Katsuhisa Ito, Hiroki Kikuchi, Yukitoyo Ohshima
  • Patent number: 8672496
    Abstract: A mirror ball adapted to engage the socket of a ceiling mounted electric light fixture in order to be suspended and powered therefrom. A tubular stem having a proximal portion threaded in the manner of an Edision screw is provided extending downward from the fixture to a lower base. A lightweight mirrored sphere or globe having a void through its (vertical) polar axis is rotatably engaged on the stem and retained in place by the lower base which houses power systems, a controller and a motor engaged to an annular gear at the lower pole of the mirrored sphere in order to slowly rotate the globe. A power supply is used to reduce line voltage to 12 v DC to drive the motor and operate one or more LED lighting elements directed at the mirrored surface and mounted at the ends of one or more arms radiating from the lower housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Inventor: Mona O'Kane
  • Patent number: 8539701
    Abstract: A display apparatus includes: a cylindrical casing which is rotatably driven; and a plurality of curve-arranged displays which are installed inside the casing and have the same number as a plurality of slits formed in the casing, wherein the curve-arranged displays include a light housing which is an approximately semi-cylindrical column having a hollow structure, and a plurality of display device substrates installed on an arc-shaped side surface of the approximately semi-cylindrical column of the light housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Izushi Kobayashi, Katsuhisa Ito, Hiroki Kikuchi, Yukitoyo Ohshima
  • Patent number: 8240071
    Abstract: An advertising device, where one exemplary use is as a “stripper pole” having associated ad material. The ad material can be placed inside a portion of the pole and be visible through a protective cover, and be dynamic. Additionally, the stripper pole may be in a variety of sizes and shapes and may include lighting, rotating mechanisms, engraving and suspended objects. The advertising device includes a connecting element that attaches to at least one end, and optionally between two ends, with a gap between an inner element and an outer element where advertising material can be placed in the gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Pole Positioning LLC
    Inventor: Aaron Montell
  • Patent number: 8156670
    Abstract: This utility model relates in general to Advertising medium but more particularly to an Automated Rotating Billboards structures. The billboard structure comprising a billboard frame having lighting facility consisting of plurality of lighting fixtures secured thereto and being provided with a covering for securing advertisement thereon, the frame being supported by an upstanding post fixedly attached on its bottom portion thereof. The upstanding post comprising of a lower stationary post member and upper rotating post member. The upper post member is being adapted to rotate using an electric motor wherein the billboard is connected. With rotating billboard, it can be seen from all angles thus more efficient and convenient to use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Inventor: Glenn R. Gatuslao
  • Patent number: 8056275
    Abstract: An apparatus for creating a water disk effect without water. The apparatus includes first and second disks, each having a first side with a substantially planar surface and a second side with a surface textured with a three dimensional (3D) pattern or topography including raised, arcuate ridges in a whirlpool or spiral arrangement. The apparatus includes a housing that supports the first and second disks for independent rotation about a common axis. The disks are positioned such that the first sides are proximate but spaced apart to avoid contact, such that the 3D patterns face outward toward viewers of the apparatus. The apparatus includes a drive assembly rotating the first disk in a first direction and concurrently rotating the second disk in a second direction opposite the first direction. A water disk effect is created during counter rotation when light from the Sun or other source strikes the disks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles Summers Ballew
  • Patent number: 8028447
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, a decorative block comprising an open celled constructing block and a support rod suspending one or more ornaments such as art, logos and/or other decorative images or designs as part of a wall is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Inventor: Ann Holford Dunham
  • Patent number: 8006417
    Abstract: An advertising device, where one exemplary use is as a “stripper pole” having associated ad material. The ad material can be placed inside a portion of the pole and be visible through a protective cover, and be dynamic. Additionally, the stripper pole may be in a variety of sizes and shapes and may include lighting, rotating mechanisms, engraving and suspended objects. The advertising device includes a connecting element that attaches to at least one end, and optionally between two ends, with a gap between an inner element and an outer element where advertising material can be placed in the gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Pole Postitioning, LLC
    Inventor: Aaron Montell
  • Patent number: 7963058
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device and method of its use to temporarily or permanently display decorations, signs or lighting. The device is especially suited for displaying from a structure, such as under the eave of a house. The inventive device is capable of conveniently rotating an attached display or lighting arrangement in and out of view, at will. It is particularly useful for the permanent display of holiday decorations, including string-lights and to display them during the holidays but remove them from sight during the remainder of the year.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: Holiday Today, LLC
    Inventors: Alan Manning Kinzel, Donald John Kinzel
  • Patent number: 7954264
    Abstract: A solar power ornamental device that features spinning, expandable decorative element displays a constantly changing array of colors when light is reflected from the rotating decorative element. The ornamental display includes: (a) a mounting assembly that includes a base that is rotatable about an axis; (b) means for rotating the rotatable base; and (c) an expandable decorative element that is secured to the rotatable base whereby the expandable decorative element is radially expandable when subjected to centrifugal forces that develop when the rotatable base is rotated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Inventor: David E. Jost
  • Patent number: 7874089
    Abstract: A rotation apparatus includes at least one magnet, and a flexible suspension coupled to the at least one magnet. The at least one magnet is suspended from the suspension. Moreover, when the flexible suspension causes rotation in a first direction via a force, the at least one magnet alternately rotates in the first direction and in a second direction opposite the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Inventor: Roger Herbstritt
  • Patent number: 7827711
    Abstract: An automatic rotating decoration includes a rotating body, a support, a driving device connecting the support, and a transmission member connecting the driving device and the rotating body. The support, the driving device and the transmission member all are received in the rotating body. An opening is defined in the rotating body. The support is exposed to the opening. The driving device includes a driving body and an output shaft extending from the driving body. The driving body includes a motor body and a battery seat electrically connecting the motor body. The automatic rotating decoration of the present invention may automatically rotate around the support on another object without additional housing thereby simplifying the structure of the automatic rotating decoration, increasing fun of the automatic rotating decoration and facilitating the handling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Inventors: XiaoBing Wang, LiangQing Li
  • Patent number: 7753570
    Abstract: To provide protection to the wiring of a light source provided on a ring member which is movably attached to a display screen of a display device, a plurality of connector is arranged on a connecting member where an end of a FPC wiring, which supplies electricity to a light source provided on the ring member and an end of a FFC wiring are connected to, and together with the connecting member a cover is connected to a moving member which has a covering board provided with a fixing pieces which fixes the end of each FPC and FFC wiring to the connecting board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventors: Hideaki Kageyama, Yoshiyuki Furuya, Satoshi Saotome
  • Publication number: 20100132234
    Abstract: Systems and methods for providing wind turbine electric generation with advertising or other image patterns for calling the attention of an individual. The wind turbine electric generation may include a wind rotor, a plurality of blades, an image and an electric generator. The image is displayed on at least two of the plurality of blades to generate a dynamic image effect with the rotation of the plurality of blades around a central axis of rotation. The electric generator is coupled to and driven by the wind rotor to generate electricity. The methods may include providing a wind turbine electric generation system and displaying an image on at least two of the plurality of blades to generate a dynamic image effect with the rotation of the plurality of blades around the central axis of rotation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2009
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Inventor: Marvin Winkler
  • Patent number: 7712238
    Abstract: A display sign includes a sign mount configured to engage support rails of a ceiling and a graphics display supported by the sign mount and configured for rotation about 360°. A motor may be provided to power rotation of the graphics display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Inventors: Edward Sender, Harold Reed, Dave Carta
  • Patent number: 7696865
    Abstract: An electronic message board includes a housing removably affixed to an interior surface of a selected window of a vehicle. Such housing is visible to another driver during driving conditions and includes a back wall with front and rear planar surfaces respectively and a first electrically conductive plate with a planar rear surface directly attached to the front surface of the back wall. The message board further includes a light display removably interfitted within the housing, a light emitting diode array, a transparent faceplate with predetermined indicia formed in a front surface thereof, and a mechanism for selectively actuating the light display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Inventor: Marvin Robinson
  • Patent number: 7540622
    Abstract: A tree ornament for being positioned on top of a tree to decorate the tree includes a base being configured to be mounted on a top of the tree. A centerpiece includes a reflective surface to reflect light off of the centerpiece. The centerpiece is mounted to the base. A support ring is coupled to the base. The support ring extends upwardly from the base and is positioned around the centerpiece. Each of a plurality of light assemblies is coupled to the support ring and arranged around the centerpiece. Each of the light assemblies is electrically coupled to a power supply. The light assemblies emit light towards the centerpiece to be reflected off of the centerpiece when the light assemblies are provided power by the power supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Inventor: Bryan F. Bechtol
  • Patent number: 7423548
    Abstract: A system and method for providing emergency egress path indication by providing a path direction indicator that is hidden from view during normal operation and is exposed to view upon activation by an emergency signal. Upon being exposed to view the indicator may be lighted and may provide light to people seeking exit from the building. In one embodiment the indicator may include a laser pointer further indicating the direction of egress. Visible and Braille text may also be included on the face of the indicator. The indicator device may be located near floor level for better visibility in smoke environments. In the non-visible state, the indicator may present a rugged face to withstand accidental kicks and bumps as may be encountered when mounted near the floor. The indicator may be operated repetitively and nondestructively to allow inclusion of the indicator in fire and other emergency drills.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Inventor: Michael Stephen Kontovich
  • Patent number: 7322136
    Abstract: An electric fireplace having a fire simulating assembly is provided. The fire simulating assembly includes a semitransparent light filter screen, a mirror glass wall and a dynamic light source. The dynamic light source includes fixed light source and a photic cover composed with many rotating centrifugal blades. There are many photic apertures in flame shape. The centrifugal blades rotate around a center of the light source. There are clearances between the centrifugal blades causing light to reflect through the centrifugal blades. The electric fireplace achieves a natural effect of vivid, rising and leaping simulated flame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Inventor: Jianming Chen
  • Patent number: 7308768
    Abstract: An exhibit including a non-planar outer piece formed from a plurality of substantially flat lenticular panels. The outer piece defines an interior and is configured to display an external view of the interior through the plurality of substantially flat lenticular panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2007
    Assignee: Target Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Mike L. Rice, April E. Jackson, James J. Marson
  • Patent number: 7260906
    Abstract: Reverse-Rotation Displays produce unexpected motion. They are especially useful for teaching high school and college students principles of the physical sciences. In addition, these Displays can be used for commercial and noncommercial purposes. Another use involves the design of special purpose flywheels that are capable of storing energy and/or converting rotational speed. The Displays move in the forward direction because of a motor. They move in the reverse direction because of forces that come from magnets embedded in a Display, and the Earth's magnetic field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Inventor: Roger Herbstritt
  • Patent number: 7131619
    Abstract: A display apparatus includes a stationary base portion and a support member mounted to a top surface of the stationary base portion. A vertically extending pole is disposed through the interior of each of the support member and the base portion along a center axis, thereby permitting selective rotation of the support member. The support member includes a plurality of lateral side panels for displaying graphic and or other materials, such as photographs and advertising. The vertically extending pole permits electrical leads to be routed therethrough to connect, for example, to at least one light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Assignee: W.A. Krapt, Inc.
    Inventors: Wallace A. Krapf, Daniel W. Rossborough
  • Patent number: 6994605
    Abstract: An illuminatable toy having a handle arranged to be held within the hand of a user and a pair of rotatable assemblies at opposite ends of the handle. Each assembly includes a pair of arms arranged to be rotated about a common longitudinal axis to create two concentric colored rings of light at each end of the device. The rotation of the arms about the axis causes the handle to shake in the hand of the user to enhance the amusement effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Assignee: S. R. Mickelberg Company, Inc.
    Inventors: William Baxter, Kenneth Ho
  • Patent number: 6968123
    Abstract: An electric fire assembly with a flame effect arrangement. The arrangement includes a bulb located in a hollow cylindrical member of opaque material with a plurality of flame shape cutouts. Light passes through the cutouts onto the rear surface of a screen to provide a flame effect as the member rotates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Assignee: CFM Corporation
    Inventors: Paul Ravnbo-West, Lee Cresswell, Michael John Green, Mitchell Lee Cadd, Roy Berrisford, Kevin Regan
  • Patent number: 6862824
    Abstract: An ornamental display assembly includes a display container having an opening at a first end. A closure member is provided and is movable between an open position, wherein the opening is unobstructed by the closure member, and a closed position, wherein the opening is blocked by the closure member. A decorative sculpture is displayed inside the container. An electronic apparatus is disposed in the container in operable communication with the closure member, such that when the closure member is in the open position the electronic apparatus is activated, and when the closure member is in the closed position the electronic apparatus is deactivated. The electronic apparatus is a music box, a lighting display, an electric motor, or any combination thereof. The ornamental display assembly further includes a magnetically operated switch for activation of the electronic apparatus, and a magnet located in the closure member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: Mr. Christmas Inc.
    Inventors: Terry Hermanson, Huang Meng-Suen
  • Patent number: 6851211
    Abstract: A display sign for suspension from a ceiling has a ceiling mount with a passage extending therethrough. A turntable is rotatably held in the passage, with a graphic holder attached to the turntable and thereby rotatably mounted below the sign mount. The display sign may be mounted in a ceiling below a light fixture so that the display holder will be illuminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Inventor: Ed Sender
  • Publication number: 20040231205
    Abstract: A heat induced rotating ornament that comprises a rotating bearer (1) with an ornament (8) fixed to its external surface, a vertical rod (2) and base (3) that support the rotating bearer (1) and a light source emitting heat (5); said ornament has its partial side surface made to be vanes evenly distributed with air-vane rake face and air exit as driving vanes (11); said rotating bearer (1) has a short vertical downward taper rod (14) at its inner top; the vertical rod (2) has a taper recess (231) at its top and the rotating bearer (1) has its short taper rod (14) put into the recess (231) at the top of the vertical rod (2); the light source emitting heat (5) warms the air in proximity and forms a rising air flow that acts on the driving vanes (11) in the ornament to produce lateral pushing force, thus driving the rotating bearer (1) and the ornament (8) fixed in the external surface rotate around the short taper rod (14), which is the supporting point, in the taper recess (231) at the top of the vertical rod
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2004
    Publication date: November 25, 2004
    Inventor: James Jen
  • Patent number: 6757487
    Abstract: An electric fireplace designed to simulate a combustible fuel-burning fireplace. The electric fireplace includes a housing. A simulated firebox is positioned within the fireplace housing. The firebox contains a log and ember set having one or more artificial logs positioned above an artificial bed of embers. The fireplace also includes a mechanism for illuminating the underside of at least a portion of the artificial logs and the artificial bed of embers to create the illusion that the artificial logs and artificial bed of embers are burning. The fireplace further includes a flame simulation assembly for generating the appearance of simulated flames emanating from the artificial logs. The flame simulation assembly includes a light source, a light randomizer, a light filter screen, and a light diffuser screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Assignee: CFM Corporation
    Inventors: Colm A. Martin, Donald R. Jamieson, Andy Luu, David Diep, Lam Van Nguyen
  • Publication number: 20040055192
    Abstract: Equipment for producing projected visual light displays in which light from a light source is shone through a moving or rotating screen or fan and then and then through a transparent sheet onto a surface of which a substantial part of the transparent sheet is opaque and which opaque parts are distributed so that the transparent parts of the sheet are positioned in one or more separate areas, the light source is preferably elongated and shines through both sides of the fan.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2003
    Publication date: March 25, 2004
    Inventor: Tom Rowland
  • Patent number: 6709145
    Abstract: The exploding-like firework light has a stand for supporting a lamp post to allow flashing forth upwardly from below continuously till the top end thereof, the lamp post has a hollow ball provided on the top thereof; the hollow ball is provided near the center thereof with an internal central flashlight adapted to generating strong flashing in an exploding mode, and a plurality of radiating levers are connected to the hollow ball to provide an effect of radiation outwardly as a firework; the flashlight is controlled and driven by a voltage riser and a relay to make a power source having the voltage thereof dropped control all the other lamp pipes or lamp strings by using a low voltage transformer through a central processing unit. Thereby a safer exploding-like firework light more suitable for outdoor use for a long period and having its packing volume reduced is formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Shining Blick Enterprises Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Peter K. H. Huang
  • Patent number: 6692331
    Abstract: The present invention is to provide an improved vibration mechanism for a motion toy, which comprises a seat disposed on a top surface of a frame, two decorative member formed of a flexible bundle of plastic optical fibers and disposed in a pair of rollers being coupled together by gears in the seat, a drive link extended from one roller, a shaft extended from a drive device in the frame having an upper end coupled with one end of a horizontal rod, and a transmission rod having one end pivotably coupled to the other end of the horizontal rod and the other end pivotably coupled to an open end of the drive link so that, in response to a rotation of the drive device, the decorative members in the rollers vibrate rhythmically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventor: Cheng-Fu Lin
  • Patent number: 6647651
    Abstract: An animation device is provided in which a series of pictures are arranged on a translucent shell, which is mounted upon an inner frame. A periodic light emitter is mounted on the inner frame. A driver, such as an electric motor, moves the translucent shell relative to the inner frame to sequentially pass the series of pictures over the periodic light emitter, thus creating an animation effect for a viewer. The series of pictures is removable to permit replacement with an alternate series of pictures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventor: David J. Cutright
  • Publication number: 20030192212
    Abstract: A dynamic display device includes a shell, a lens having a plurality of concave and convex portions, and a display device having two sets of one inner and one outer shaft, each set includes two shafts, mounted on a frame. An inner member and an outer pattern member are arranged on the inner and the outer shafts respectively. Each one shaft of the inner and outer shaft sets is driven by a motor through a gear set. Moreover, an illuminant is installed inside the frame. The inner and the outer pattern members are driven in opposite direction for providing changing patterns and enlarging display area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2002
    Publication date: October 16, 2003
    Inventor: Kuei - Min Hsu
  • Patent number: 6584713
    Abstract: A decorative lamp includes a base holding a lamp bulb and a motor drive unit, a rotary table supported on the base around the lamp bulb and rotated by the motor drive unit, an inner lampshade fixedly mounted on the rotary table for synchronous rotation with the rotary table, the inner lamp shade having a design of underwater scene on an outside wall thereof, and a magnifying transparent outer lampshade fixedly mounted on the base and covering over the inner lampshade to magnify the dimensions of the inner lampshade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Inventor: Line-Yao Huang
  • Patent number: 6582115
    Abstract: A structure of firework light, wherein, a base is provided therein with an electric conductor and an automatic reeling device to lower the gravity of the firework light, and a post is provided to connect a hollow ball thereon, a lot of transparent radial rods are conveniently connected with the ball. An IC controller is provided in the hollow ball to separately control a flashlight, so that the IC controller makes the lamp strings in the radial rods flash sequentially after the flashlight flashes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Assignee: Shining Blick Enterprises Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Peter K. H. Huang
  • Publication number: 20030072565
    Abstract: An electric fire assembly with a flame effect arrangement. The arrangement includes a bulb located in a hollow cylindrical member of opaque material with a plurality of flame shape cutouts. Light passes through the cutouts onto the rear surface of a screen to provide a flame effect as the member rotates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Paul Ravnbo-West, Lee Cresswell, Michael John Green, Mitchell Lee Cadd, Roy Berrisford, Kevin Regan
  • 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: 6485350
    Abstract: An animated holiday-scene display device for providing decorative entertainment tools. The animated holiday-scene display device includes a base member having a top side and being adapted to rest upon a surface; and also includes an ornamental figurine being mounted upon the topside of the base member and having a body and movable arms; and further includes an ornamental object also being mounted upon the top side of the base member; and also includes a light-emitting assembly being disposed throughout the ornamental object; and further includes an assembly for actuating movement of the ornamental figurine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Inventor: Agnes Giglio
  • Publication number: 20020152656
    Abstract: A decorative lamp includes a base holding a lamp bulb and a motor drive unit, a rotary table supported on the base around the lamp bulb and rotated by the motor drive unit, an inner lampshade fixedly mounted on the rotary table for synchronous rotation with the rotary table, the inner lamp shade having a design of underwater scene on an outside wall thereof, and a magnifying transparent outer lampshade fixedly mounted on the base and covering over the inner lampshade to magnify the dimensions of the inner lampshade.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2001
    Publication date: October 24, 2002
    Inventor: Line-Yao Huang
  • Patent number: 6438879
    Abstract: A stand (8) for supporting an artificial tree of a type having a plurality of optical fibers comprises: a housing (4) having a base (3) and a sidewall defining one or more windows (6), a screen (9) in each window (6), an internal light source (54), a decorative image-bearing material (38) or shape arranged between the light source and the screen, and a tree trunk supporting sleeve (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Assignee: Boto (Licenses) Limited
    Inventor: Cheung Chong Kao
  • Publication number: 20020105808
    Abstract: An illuminated revolving lamp device having a rotating translucent member surrounding a source of light and bearing colored patterns thereon, and a second translucent member formed with grating portions of various transmissiveness, the second translucent member adjacent first translucent member such that when the display device is viewed from a fixed location, a changing display of colors and shapes is observed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2002
    Publication date: August 8, 2002
    Inventor: Patrick Lau Ting Yup
  • Patent number: 6400279
    Abstract: A display unit has multiple illuminators provided in a housing of the unit. The display unit has a right prism composed of at least four side faces each with a unique color and being detachably connected with a step motor. The display unit is able to provide the necessary brightness by means of the illuminators when the ambient light is not sufficient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Assignee: Lite Vision Corporation
    Inventor: Chi-Ceing Tang
  • Patent number: 6393207
    Abstract: In preferred aspects, the present invention comprises an electric fireplace designed to simulate a combustible fuel-burning fireplace. The electric fireplace comprises a housing having a top, a bottom, a back, and two sides. A simulated firebox having a top, a bottom, a back, and two sides is positioned within the fireplace housing. The firebox contains a log and ember set having one or more artificial logs positioned above an artificial bed of embers. The fireplace also comprises a mechanism for illuminating the underside of at least a portion of the artificial logs and a portion of the artificial bed of embers so as to create the illusion that the artificial logs and the artificial bed of embers are burning. The fireplace further comprises a flame simulation assembly for generating the appearance of simulated flames emanating from the artificial logs. The flame simulation assembly comprises a light source, a light randomizer, a light filter screen, and a light diffuser screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Assignee: CFM Majestic Inc.
    Inventors: Colm A. Martin, Donald R. Jamieson, Andy Luu, David Diep, Lam Van Nguyen
  • Patent number: 6298588
    Abstract: A display apparatus combines a product display container and a plurality of light controlled light sources, wherein the light sources operate to create a visual image advertising the product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Assignee: Kohne Ingenieur büro, GmbH
    Inventors: Hans-Jörg Remitz, Marcus Kohne