Colored Light Patents (Class 40/581)
  • Patent number: 11156352
    Abstract: A projection lamp includes a top cover, a patterned translucent member, a chassis, a rotating disc, a motor for rotating the disc, a diffusing light transmitting reflector, a first light-emitting diode provided above the diffusing light transmitting reflector, a second light-emitting diode provided below the diffusing light transmitting reflector, a speaker, a control board for controlling the light-emitting diodes and the motor, a battery, and a plastic bottom case configured to cooperate with the top cover to form a housing of the projection lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2021
    Inventor: Juwei Li
  • Patent number: 8959811
    Abstract: A sign holder for supporting electrified sign inserts that may vary in width, comprises a base having a groove into which the sign insert can be placed. In the preferred embodiment, two or more gaskets are positioned in the groove with each gasket including a resilient section adapted to engage the sign insert so as to retain the sign insert securely in place within the groove. Each of the gaskets also includes an electrical conductor, such as an electrical wire, which may be embedded in the gasket, in a position where it makes electrical contact with the electrical terminals on the sign insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Visual Graphic Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Donall B. Healy
  • Patent number: 8820994
    Abstract: A lighting apparatus includes a light-transmitting member, a first light source, a second light source, and at least one laser-formed light-reducing baffle. The light-transmitting member is for transmitting light within the light-transmitting member. The first light source is for emitting a first light into the light-transmitting member. The second light source is for emitting a second light into the light-transmitting member. The at least one laser-formed light-reducing baffle is disposed in the light-transmitting member for reducing transmission of the first and second lights within the light-transmitting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: James Frederick Krier
  • Patent number: 8711067
    Abstract: Pixel interleaving configurations for use in high definition electronic sign displays where each and every scan line includes full red, green, and blue color representation to provide for high resolution electronic video sign displays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Brent A. Joffer, Brett David Wendler, Glenn P. Luke, Nathan Lane Nearman, Chad Neal Gloege, Matthew Ray Mueller, Shannon Lee Mutschelknaus, Joseph Gerard Schulte, Eric Steven Bravek, Ryan Mark Hansen
  • Publication number: 20130118047
    Abstract: A method for producing a transparent object that attracts a viewer's attention. At least some of the object surface facing the viewer is illuminated by means of an illumination source that irradiates a bottom surface of the object, said bottom surface facing away from the viewer. The disclosed method is characterized in that the object is provided with a surface that is reflective in incident light.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2012
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Applicant: Frank Buddenhagen GmbH
    Inventor: Frank Buddenhagen GmbH
  • Patent number: 8427278
    Abstract: Methods and systems for an automation and security system including a first sensor, a second sensor, and a controller. The first sensor detects a signal from an identification device indicative of a first authorized person in an exterior area near a door. The second sensor is coupled to a handle on the exterior surface of the door to detect a touch to the handle. The controller is configured to operate one or more lighting devices and a lock associated with the door. When the controller receives a signal from the first sensor indicative of the identification device in the exterior area near the door, it initiates a timer and operates one or more lighting devices to indicate a condition detected by the automation and security system. When the controller receives a signal from the second sensor indicative of a touch to the handle after the initiation of the timer and before the timer expires, it unlocks the door and turns on one or more lights in an interior area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Dennis M. Petricoin, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20120304513
    Abstract: An illuminating device is provided, including a first informational block and a second informational block. The first informational block may include an informational communication. The informational communication may include at least one graphic illustration having a defined graphic area. The panel may be positioned such that at least a portion of the informational communication is substantially visible through the viewing plane. The second informational block may include a sponsor communication. The information blocks may be encompassed by a frame and be illuminated by a light emitting source within the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2011
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Inventor: Scott P. Gorelick
  • Publication number: 20120175220
    Abstract: An escalator display device includes a light-emitting body arranged on an edge of a side wall, which includes a transparent medium. The light-emitting body is arranged to display a displayed item on the surface of the transparent medium and is a photosensitive material that reacts photosensitively with the light emission color of the light-emitting body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2012
    Publication date: July 12, 2012
    Inventors: Nakamori Masanori, Ogata Sho
  • Patent number: 8112921
    Abstract: A sign comprising a surface having a display, and a plurality of sources of visible light. The sources of visible light are oriented to illuminate at least a portion of the display, and include solid state light emitters and/or luminescent materials. Line segments drawn on a Chromaticity Diagram connecting coordinates of some of the illumination color hues define a shape which encompasses coordinates of the display color hue(s). Also, a sign comprising a surface having a display having a surface area of at least 4 square meters, and at least 100 sources of visible light including solid state light emitters and/or luminescent materials. Also, a sign comprising a white light source and at least one additional source of light. Also, methods of illuminating signs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Cree, Inc.
    Inventors: Antony Paul Van De Ven, Gerald H. Negley
  • Publication number: 20110314711
    Abstract: A color changing display is provided that includes a frame structure having an inner surface, an outer surface, a front edge defining an open front portion of the frame structure, and a back edge defining an open back portion of the frame structure. A panel, having a front surface and a back surface, is attached to the back edge of the frame structure and covers the open back portion of the frame structure. One or more lights are secured to the inner surface of the frame structure and a light-transmitting substrate is attached to the front edge of the frame structure such that the light-transmitting substrate covers the open front portion of the frame structure. A combined image, comprising two or more images, is affixed to the light-transmitting substrate such that an appearance of the combined image changes in response to different colors of light.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2011
    Publication date: December 29, 2011
    Applicant: JUMBIE, LLC
    Inventors: Nicholas L. Jumblatt, Eric W. Francke
  • Publication number: 20110271569
    Abstract: A display presenting a multi-faceted illumination effect includes a housing having an opening and a light source within the housing. A cover at least partially covers the opening of the housing and has a plurality of facets that are angled with respect to each other. One or more of the angles are formed such that facets abutting at the angles are visibly distinct to an observer outside the housing when illuminated by the light source within the housing to produce the multi-faceted illumination effect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2010
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Inventors: Charles R. Nelson, Tim G. Fallon
  • Publication number: 20100219040
    Abstract: An escalator display device includes a light-emitting body arranged on an edge of a side wall, which includes a transparent medium. The light-emitting body is arranged to display a displayed item on the surface of the transparent medium and is a photosensitive material that reacts photosensitively with the light emission color of the light-emitting body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2007
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Inventors: Masanori Nakamori, Sho Ogata
  • Publication number: 20100212199
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a new and improved method and apparatus for a mobile aerodynamic illumination apparatus having a graphic and secured to an automobile the apparatus including a modular base joined to a stem extending from said modular base fastened to a windsock having an inner and outer adapted to receive the graphic presenting a visual display surface, said windsock further comprising an illuminator having a lens assembly surrounding a light source and in visual communication with a light tunnel, said lens assembly including a lens, a first and second reflector said light source fixed to one end of said light tunnel and operable to emit light, the first and second reflectors being spaced apart and each presenting a reflective curvilinear surface whereby said emitted light is dispersed to said visual display surface for illumination of said graphic.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2010
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Inventor: Gregory Bruce Edmonds
  • Patent number: 7748148
    Abstract: A backlit display sign includes a rear sign enclosure element at the back of the sign with a forwardly facing wide mouth opening. Extending across the mouth opening is a front sign element or cover formed from an optically transmissive light guide which extends laterally across the mouth opening of the display. Light diffusing (scattering) reflective layers on the front and rear surfaces of the guide or within the guide itself make the guide a light propagation sustaining channel that serves to funnel light rays laterally and forwardly within itself to an image-producing opening where the light is allowed to be emitted for producing the image of a symbol, letter, number or other indicia that is visible on the front of the display. A light cavity between the front cover and the rear sign enclosure element contains at least one illuminating device, e.g. a light emitting diode (LED), to provide visible illumination that is transmitted from within the light cavity through the guide to the front of the sign.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: e-llumineering LLC
    Inventors: Dennis J. Reiland, Donald L. Robertson, Brian J. Randall
  • Publication number: 20090277059
    Abstract: A bi-color illuminated emblem includes a metal-look portion having a metal look layer, a substrate layer that supports the metal look layer, and a plurality of illuminating elements. The metal look layer and the substrate layer pass light from the illuminating elements. The illuminating elements emit light within a predetermined emission angle, which is 120 degree. The substrate layer is made of semi-transparent ABS. The substrate layer comprises an outer surface which supports the metal look layer, and an inner surface that faces the illuminating elements and has coarse texture that causes scattering of light. The distance between the inner surface of the substrate layer and the illuminating elements is in a range from 7˜10 mm. The illuminating element comprises an LED and a light guiding element that guides the light from the LED emits throughout and within the predetermined angle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2008
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Inventor: Young Chul Kwon
  • Publication number: 20080236006
    Abstract: An information display device illuminates a light pipe, and includes a controller to regulate the power levels delivered to a light source, thereby regulating the amount of light delivered to the light pipe. Alternatively, the information display device delivers visual data, including alpha-numeric characters, predetermined images, or a controlled phasing. The information display device may be utilized to illuminate information associated with the structure. The illumination system provides the ability to phase between different colors, as well as blended colors. Accordingly, an information display device phases between varying colors, and may blend colors to create color schemes. The illumination system includes a control module disposed within the structure to control device parameters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2007
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Inventors: Thomas J. Chadwell, Michael T. Romanyszyn, John Vira
  • Patent number: 7406785
    Abstract: A display device selectively provides a first and second displays. A first light source emits first light, and a second light source emits second light having peak wavelength different from the first light, and a translucent sheet hit selectively by one of the first and second lights. The translucent sheet has first printed area parts formed on a first surface of the sheet to pass only the first light for providing the first display, second printed area parts formed on the first surface to pass only the second light for providing the second display, third printed area parts formed on the first surface to prevent light transmittance, and printed dimmer area parts formed on a second surface at areas corresponding to overlapped area parts of the first and second displays so as to suppress the first and second lights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: Calsonic Kansei Corporation
    Inventor: Kunihiko Noguchi
  • Patent number: 7374311
    Abstract: A system provides light of selectable spectral characteristic (e.g. a selectable color combination of light), for luminous applications such as signage and indicator lights. An optical integrating cavity combines energy of different wavelengths from different sources, typically different-color LEDs. The cavity has a diffusely reflective interior surface and an aperture for allowing emission of combined light. Control of the intensity of emission of the sources sets the amount of each wavelength of light in the combined output and thus determines a spectral characteristic of the light output through the aperture. A deflector shaped like a number, character, letter, or other symbol, may be coupled to a similarly shaped aperture. By combining several such fixtures, it is possible to spell out words and phrases, with selectable color lighting. Disclosed fixture examples use an extruded body member with appropriately located reflective surfaces, to form both the cavity and deflector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Assignee: Advanced Optical Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Jack C. Rains, Jr., Christopher Bates, Matthew Brown
  • Publication number: 20080000120
    Abstract: The present invention is related to a color-mixture display unit and an image display apparatus using the same, wherein the image display apparatus includes at least one color-mixture pixel which is pre-disposed at plates of a light box so that a pattern is formed. Each of the color-mixture pixels is equipped with a red filter, a green filter and a blue filter, or equipped with a black filter or equipped with a transparent filter. At least one color-mixture LED is disposed within the light box and provides a backlight for the color-mixture pixel. In this regard, the color-mixture LEDs are controlled by an image controller and provide various color light beams with the color-mixture pixels. In addition, arrangement of each color filter within the color-mixture pixel is utilized so that color-mixture effect of dynamic image is shown.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2006
    Publication date: January 3, 2008
    Inventors: Bily Wang, Hui-Chung Lin
  • Patent number: 7114840
    Abstract: An exit sign comprising a housing and a plurality of red and green color LEDs having the capability of being selectively activated to produce either red light or green light. The plurality of LEDs are mounted in a mutual lighting association in the housing. A switch is manually operable to selectively activate the plurality of red color LEDs to produce the red light and in the alternative, to selectively activate of the plurality of the green color LEDs to produce the green light. Means for passing light from the selected red light or selected green light in the form of indicia symbolizing an exit enables viewing by an observer, such means include a stencil having four independent letters forming the word EXIT. DC circuitry is in operative electrical connection with the plurality of LEDs. A source of DC electrical power activates the DC circuitry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Inventor: Douglas Hamrick
  • Patent number: 6870655
    Abstract: A mirror includes a housing, a mirror subassembly including a reflector layer with a portion defining an opening, and an indicia panel covering the opening and configured to form a visual display. At least one light source is positioned in the housing to pass light through the indicia panel and the opening of the mirror subassembly to selectively illuminate the visual display. The at least one light source emits a light matched in color to the indicia panel so that a maximum of light from the at least one light source passes through the indicia panel and is visible to a vehicle driver. Optimally, the light sources emit an amber colored light, and the indicia panel includes a diffusing layer also having an amber color.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2005
    Assignee: Gentex Corporation
    Inventors: Bradley L. Northman, John W. Carter, Frederick T. Bauer
  • Patent number: 6843010
    Abstract: A light-conductive and transparent front panel 12 is mounted in a frame 11. One or more etched characters 22 are formed on a rear surface 17 of the front panel 12, and one or more photo-luminescent characters 16 is/are disposed in overlying relation to the etched character(s) 22. A strip of light emitting diodes (LED's) 14 are mounted in the frame 11 adjacent to a side wall 13 of the front panel 12. Mounting members 19, 20 are formed on the frame to position and hold the front panel in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Inventors: Michael G. Robinson, Thomas W. Brignall, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20040226201
    Abstract: An integrated advertisement board includes a frame, several light emitting elements arranged on the frame in a form of a matrix, and a controlling circuit electrically connected to the light emitting element; the controlling circuit is used for making each light emitting element emit light and stop emitting light in an alternate way for the light emitting element to present patterns as well as for the patterns to have constantly changing appearance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2003
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Inventors: Jui-Sheng Lin, Yuan-Tai Hsieh
  • Patent number: 6722066
    Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for displaying at least one image by applying the image to a transparent substrate and portraying the image using one or more colored translucent substances limited to specific wavelengths of the visible light spectrum substantially matching the color of the transparent substrate and treating the non-image area on the transparent substrate with an opaque substance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Inventor: James Cheung
  • Patent number: 6711841
    Abstract: A display device has a support, a tubular light source, and a cover. The light source is interconnected to the support, and the cover is placed over the light source. The cover is an arc-shaped partially translucent elongated member. The cover is colored to create a glowing effect when light emitted from the light source passes through the cover in a forward direction. Light emitted from the light source in a rearward direction reflects off of the support. The cover allows the light source to create both a glowing effect and a back-lit effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Assignee: Everbrite, Inc.
    Inventors: John Glueckstein, Stephen E. Porter
  • Patent number: 6685339
    Abstract: The specification and drawings describe and show one embodiment of the present invention in the form of a sparkle light bulb with a plurality of different colored LED bulbs controlled by a circuit that selectively operates the LED bulbs in color wash mode or color dance mode. The controller circuit also has memory for further selectively locking the LED bulbs in a desired color pattern. The sparkle light housing has guides for aligning and guiding the lamp bulb into a multi-pin receptacle. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope of meaning of the claims. 37 CFR 1.72(b).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Assignee: Polaris Pool Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Jerry Daughtry, Douglas Ruthenberg
  • 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
  • Patent number: 6584714
    Abstract: Optical display containing one or more shaped articles and a light source. The shaped articles consist of a transparent or semitransparent plastic. The plastic contains one or more fluorescent substances. One or more light sources are arranged in such a way that their light is applied to the surface of the shaped article at particular regions of it and propagates through the shaped article. The shaped article contains means for controlled light output, so that the light can be output from the shaped article in a controlled way at quite particular regions on the surface of the shaped article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignee: Bayer Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Rolf Wehrmann, Helmut-Werner Heuer
  • 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: 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
  • Patent number: 6341440
    Abstract: A multi-function signboard includes a frame seat, a light seat, a light diffusion strip, a display board, a circuit board and a power source portion. The frame seat is a hollow light impermeable structure having a top portion that sinks downward to form a frame rib, and a frame groove, and has two ends respectively connected to an end cap. The light seat is an elongate seat that has connecting wires connected to the circuit board, and a plurality of light emitting diodes of different colors arranged in sets of three to provide light of different colors. The light diffusion strip is a transparent elongated strip with a length equal to that of the light seat, and is disposed on the light seat. The light diffusion strip and the light seat are together disposed in the frame groove. The diffusion strip is provided with semi-circular holes corresponding to the light emitting diodes to diffuse the colored light emitted by the light emitting diodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2002
    Assignee: Wen Tai Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ching-Chuan Lee
  • Patent number: 6312141
    Abstract: The lamp assembly includes an emitting framework, a supporting ball, radiating levers and electronic-controller. The emitting framework is connected to the radiating levers via the supporting ball; the radiating levers to which explosion lamps and flashing lamps attach are bent into such a shape as to produce the effect of fireworks exploding; the electronic-controller is connected with firing lamps, explosive lamps and flashing lamp. The specially manufactured lamp assembly can effectively simulate the explosion process of fireworks controlled by electronic-control system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Inventor: Limin Liu
  • Patent number: 6205691
    Abstract: A display device resembling neon tubing includes a transparent substrate with one or more elongate, continuous grooves formed in the substrate from a rear surface thereof. The groove is shaped to represent an informational image, such as a letter, symbol, character or design, for communicating a message to a viewer. A layer of a roughness is formed within an arcuate groove surface of substantially constant diameter along the length of the groove to thereby uniformly disperse light that may be incident on the groove toward the front surface of the substrate in an arcuate path. A blocking layer covers the rear surface of the substrate adjacent the groove for permitting the transmission of light only through the groove to thereby create a sharp contrast between light incident on the groove and the blocking layer. The diameter of the groove is preferably approximately equal to the diameter of conventional neon tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventors: Susan L. Urda, Katherine M. Fyler
  • Patent number: 5964051
    Abstract: An emergency sign includes a body having a top, two spaced apart sides, and a bottom defining a cavity, a front cover having an inside surface and cut out portions extending through the cover forming indica, a light source disposed within the cavity, and a diffuser coupled to the cover and covering the indicia, the diffuser having cut away portions for permitting light from the light source to reflect off of the inside surface of the front cover. The diffuser may include pigment therein, which pigment is color matched to correspond to the wavelength of the light from the light source. The light source may include an array of LEDs where some of the LEDs are of a diffused type and some of the LEDs are of a unidirectional type.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1999
    Assignees: Autronics Plastics, Inc., ATlite Lighting Equipment Inc.
    Inventors: Charles A. Loeber, Jack H. Pearlman, Michael Lax
  • Patent number: 5951150
    Abstract: A display system includes a plurality of color filters disposed between a plurality of light sources and a display panel. A first light source is energizeable to transmit light through a first color filter to illuminate the display panel with a first color (red). A second light source is energizeable to transmit light through a second color filter to illuminate the display panel with a second color (green). The first and second light sources are simultaneously energizeable to transmit light through both of the color filters to illuminate the display panel with a third color (yellow). The display panel includes inner and outer layers containing light absorbing pigment and light scattering particulate. The outer layer of the panel contains a greater quantity of pigment than the inner layer. The inner layer of the panel contains a greater quantity of light scattering particulate than the outer layer. The inner and outer layers of the panel have the same optical density.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Robert Patrick Helstern
  • Patent number: 5794881
    Abstract: A gel tensioning device maintains tension on a gel. The gel is wound between two rollers as the diameters of the rollers change by rolling and unrolling the gel, the amount of movement between the two rollers also changes. This difference in movement is absorbed by a spring that biases the rollers relative to one another. The present invention preferably applies force to one of the rollers, that one roller connects to a special spring assembly and through that special spring assembly to the other roller. The special spring assembly includes a special kind of spring, which has desirable characteristics but is susceptible to reverse winding. A roller clutch allows force to be applied to the spring in the winding direction only and not in the non-winding direction. This prevents damage to the spring from any reverse winding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Assignee: Light & Sound Design, Ltd.
    Inventor: Nigel Evans
  • Patent number: 5794366
    Abstract: A multiple segment electro-luminescent panel includes a backsheet on which are formed lower electrodes and connection lines for a plurality of discrete electro-luminescent light segments, the segments being made up of the lower electrodes, an optional dielectric layer, a phosphor material coated, painted, or printed onto the lower electrodes, and upper electrodes and connection lines formed on the phosphor material and lower connection lines. A first frontsheet layer is provided over the light segments and connection lines and bonded to the backsheet, and a second frontsheet layer including windows or cut-outs for viewing the light segments is provided over the first front sheet layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Inventor: Tseng-Lu Chien
  • Patent number: 5787618
    Abstract: A display device having an interior area in which multiple images are displayed. The images arise from reflections of one or more externally or internally illuminated patterns located within the apparatus. The device creates an optical illusion whereby multiple images appear to extend a rearward distance that is greater than the thickness of the apparatus. When multiple patterns are employed, the patterns may be spaced from each other and are combined to form the desired image. The apparatus may include one or more spotlights that function to highlight predetermined area(s) within the device. The apparatus may alternatively or in combination employ an isolated light source that illuminates the interior of a light transmitting object located between the reflective surfaces to thereby cause the object and especially the object's side edges to glow with light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1998
    Inventor: Randy J. Mullis
  • Patent number: 5778579
    Abstract: An interlocking display panel assembly comprises a pair of end elements for attachment to a supporting surface, at least one intermediate element having an indicia displaying surface locatable in an interlocking relationship between the end elements to form an integral planar assembly, illumination devices in the intermediate elements. Each element interlocks with an adjacent element by means of a tongue-and-groove arrangement, male and female portions of the tongue-and-groove arrangements on opposite sides of the intermediate elements being arranged in a complementary manner so that as many intermediate elements can be fitted together in a row as desired. Respective contacts are provided on opposing surfaces of adjacent interlocking elements so as to transfer electrical power between adjacent elements. One of the end elements includes a device for providing power to the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1998
    Inventor: Shu Wing Yuen
  • Patent number: 5752337
    Abstract: A multi-color illuminated panel is made up of a decorative frontsheet having windows cut therein and which may include decorative patterns printed thereon, a transparent supporting sheet, which may also have decorative printing thereon, and a pre-wired backsheet in the form of a printed circuit board having multiple individual electro-luminescent light panel segments of different colors affixed thereto and electrically connected to traces on the circuit board, the electro-luminescent light segments of different colors emitting light which shines through corresponding windows and thereby provides a spectacular multi-color lighting effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1998
    Inventor: Tseng Lu Chien
  • Patent number: 5715619
    Abstract: The disclosure herein describes an information displaying traffic sign which comprises a board, the front side of which is formed of dusters of LED devices. Visors are mounted to the front of the board, each visor being provided with an opening on its top face so that vertical air circulation along the front side of the board may be permitted to cool the LED devices. Shades are provided, adjacent to each visor opening, to prevent sun rays from reaching the LED devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 10, 1998
    Assignee: Groupe Infocite Inc.
    Inventors: Alexandre Polisois, Daniel Chevalier
  • Patent number: 5697175
    Abstract: An illuminated sign apparatus comprised of a reflector with dedicated cavities. Each letter and, optionally, background area, comprises a shaped cavity, illuminated indirectly by a plurality of near-point sources such as light-emitting diodes located in the center of the cavity, either on a separate perpendicular circuit board or on a central projection formed in the bottom of the cavity, with the light emitted by the sources pointed outwards. In another embodiment, the letter cavities and background are illuminated by parallel boards along the top, bottom, and (optionally) middle of the letter cavities, with the light sources directed along the axes of the letter strokes. In another embodiment, the light sources in the center of the cavity are electroluminescent and ultraviolet emitting, and the cavity can be coated with a UV activated flourescent coating which is activated by the EL light source. The light is evenly reflected upward toward the viewer, giving the illusion of a solid letter or background.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1997
    Assignee: Spectralight, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven Schwartz
  • Patent number: 5676456
    Abstract: An indicator device (14) having no moving parts includes a layered assembly (26) visible through an aperture (28) in a wall member (30), and a light source (30) positioned behind the layered assembly (26). The layered assembly (26) comprises a first transparent sheet (32) of a first color, a second transparent sheet (34) of a second color, and an LCD panel (36) interposed between the two sheets (32,34). The LCD panel (36) is adapted to be rendered transparent when energized and to be rendered opaque when de-energized. When the LCD panel (36) and the light source (38) are de-energized, the first color (e.g. red) is seen through the aperture (28), and when the LCD panel (36) and the light source (38) are energized a third color (e.g. green) is seen through the aperture (28). The indicator device (14) may be used, for example, as an in-service indicator of an ATM.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1997
    Assignee: NCR Corporation
    Inventor: Gordon D. Sharp
  • Patent number: 5640792
    Abstract: Lighting fixtures which feature indicia illuminated more uniformally and with greater brightness than in conventional lighting fixtures. LEDs which operate at a higher frequency/shorter wavelength, such as blue LEDs, emit light which causes the transformation material to reemit, reradiate or emit light at a lower frequency/longer wavelength with increased brightness and uniformity. In a preferred embodiment of the lighting fixtures, blue LEDs cause the transformation material to emit green light for bright and even illumination of indicia such as letters and chevrons in exit signs, and at a wavelength to which the human eye is serendipitously sensitive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 24, 1997
    Assignee: National Service Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen T. Smith, Donald C. O'Shea
  • Patent number: 5572817
    Abstract: A multi-color illuminated panel is made up of a decorative frontsheet having windows cut therein and which may include decorative patterns printed thereon, a transparent supporting sheet, which may also have decorative printing thereon, and a pre-wired backsheet in the form of a printed circuit board having multiple individual electro-luminescent light panel segments of different colors affixed thereto and electrically connected to traces on the circuit board, the electro-luminescent light segments of different colors emitting light which shines through corresponding windows and thereby provides a spectacular multi-color lighting effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1996
    Inventor: Tseng L. Chien
  • Patent number: 5448843
    Abstract: An illuminated sign apparatus comprised of a reflector with dedicated cavities which are formed by having the perimeter walls of each cavity conform precisely to each individual area of the sign desiring illumination, typically alphabetic characters and the background area they create. The bottom walls of these cavities will project towards the viewers eye parabolically. The midpoint of the cavity, when viewed in cross section, is to be slightly less in height than that of the cavity-defining perimeter walls. The perimeter walls have point source lights such as light emitting diodes (LEDs) distributed along their surface. These cavities may be filled in with transparent substance, fully encapsulating the LEDs thereby eliminating any reflective air space and facilitating light diffusion. The light sources may be provided with circuitry allowing unique powering to each of the individual cavities, resulting in the possibility of a variety of different display effects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 12, 1995
    Assignee: Spectralight Signs and Lighting, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven Schwartz
  • Patent number: 5450301
    Abstract: A large scale display is made of several panels, each holding several display elements defined by LEDs. Preferably, each panel is arranged so that it can directly replace, both mechanically and electrically, a panel having incandescent bulbs as display elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 12, 1995
    Assignee: Trans-Lux Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas M. Waltz, Alfred Dagenais
  • Patent number: 5398170
    Abstract: An optical display apparatus includes a plurality of optical elements of acrylic material and an additive. Each optical element is shaped into cylindrical body with a first convex end and a second convex end to improve light receiving and transmitting efficiency of the optical element. By activation of a fluorescent lamp, the optical elements can emit ultra-bright color light. A light reflective chamber encloses the fluorescent lamp and the optical elements. Through a panel of the chamber and the optical elements mounted on the panel via apertures of the panel, various desired display patterns may be accomplished. The additive may be fluorescent color dyes or bleaching power. The optical display apparatus further includes a convex lens, a color disc and a motor. The motor drives the color disc to rotate so that light rays focus by the convex lens have variable colors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 14, 1995
    Inventor: Song S. Lee
  • Patent number: 4996632
    Abstract: An arrangement and method for providing an elongated light source, such as for illuminating a sign or the like or for other display, which includes emitting light from an exterior light source into an inner tube having a portion lined with a high reflectance film of prismatic lenses, the tube having a light-transmitting opening along its length, with a diffusing medium substantially diametrically opposite such opening, and optionally a reflector at one end of the inner tube. The inner tube is concentrically surrounded by an outer tube having light-transmissive portions of different colors. The outer tube is rotatable relative to the inner tube. The emitted light propagates in the inner tube by reflecting from the high reflectance lining and the reflector to impinge on the diffusing medium and thereby transmit light outwardly through the light-transmissive opening and thereafter through a selected one of the colored portions so as to project colored light against a sign or like object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 26, 1991
    Assignee: Gulton Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Wallace R. Aikens
  • Patent number: 4970812
    Abstract: A sheet type large display unit includes a thin, flexible back sheet which is capable of being rolled up, the flexible back sheet having a plurality of electrical connections formed thereon in rows and columns; a plurality of display dot devices mounted on the front surface of the back sheet in a matrix arrangement, each display dot device including four light emitting diodes mounted on a printed circuit board substrate and connected with the electrical connections; a thin, flexible transparent display sheet which is capable of being rolled up, the display sheet being in covering relation to the display dot devices; and an adhesive which secures the peripheral edge of the display sheet in sealing relation to the peripheral edge of the back sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1989
    Date of Patent: November 20, 1990
    Assignee: Stanley Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Issei Tanaka, Akio Uchida, Tadashi Irie