Artificial Illumination Means Patents (Class 52/28)
  • Publication number: 20040000099
    Abstract: Mood regulation enclosures and methods of use thereof are disclosed. The mood regulation enclosures include an interior space to contain a user, a closeable aperture and physical barriers which effectively sensorily separate the user from the outside environment. A person observing the enclosure from outside is unable to ascertain an activity of the user within. The enclosure may be specifically configured for aggression release or for passive relaxation. The method of regulating a mood includes providing a mood regulation enclosure as described hereinabove, allowing a user to enter the enclosure so that the user is effectively sensorily separated from the outside environment and preventing a person observing the enclosure from outside from ascertaining an activity of the user within.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2002
    Publication date: January 1, 2004
    Inventor: Shlomit Gal
  • Patent number: 6606827
    Abstract: This device has a principal section (1) and an auxiliary section (6) with means of attachment and detachment under pressure. The auxiliary section (6) has guides (61) for fitting an advertising support (7). The section (1) defines two wings (11 and 12), a recess (13) for the lighting means (2) and a seat (14) for a non-slip strip (4) and a row-numberer (5). The wing (12) has a longitudinal channel (17) for fitting lighting means (8) and a transparent protector, forming a hollow portion (9) for running cables (81) through it. The seat (14) has two interior mortised portions (14a and 14b), one of which forms a duct for the power-supply cables (51) of lighting means (52) housed in the orifice (53) of the numberer (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Inventor: Friedemann Hoffmann
  • Publication number: 20030136058
    Abstract: A system for the application of an image to an upper surface of a built structure, the image arranged for visibility from over-flying craft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventor: Andrew Winton
  • Patent number: 6581335
    Abstract: A post cap assembly having a body including a generally vertical side defining an interior volume. A one locating member projecting into the interior volume and having a stop formed thereon for positioning the post cap on a support. Furthermore, the post cap having an upper portion to selectively receive a light source. The light source reflected down over and substantially illuminating only the sides of the post cap through apertures selectively formed in eaves on the tops of the sides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Inventor: Darcey Grant
  • Patent number: 6513288
    Abstract: A window assembly for installation across at least a portion of an opening through a partition frame. The window assembly includes a sheet of light-transmitting material defining opposite edges. Side members are disposed on the opposite side edges, and telescope relative to one another. At least one of the side members includes a connector for securing the window assembly to the partition frame. The connector engages the partition frame upon telescoping of the side members to secure the window to the partition frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Douglas B. MacDonald, Theodore Q. Chau, Kevin J. Longhurst, Richard S. Hand, Mark D. Porter
  • Patent number: 6484456
    Abstract: An extendible mast assembly is disclosed comprising a base member (12); a base mast section (16) pivotally coupled thereto; and an extendible mast section (20) telescopically received within the base mast section (16). A first ball drive actuator (14) is mounted and coupled to pivotally drive the mast sections between a horizontal “down” position and a vertical “up” position, and a second ball drive actuator (18) is mounted within the base mast section to move the extendible mast section in and out of the base mast section. A wiring harness (106, 108) is routed from the base of the unit up through the base mast section and the extendible mast section for powering the ball drive actuators (14, 18) and any electrically powered device mounted to the distal end of the mast. The uppermost extendible mast section (20) is composed of non-conductive material to prevent the conductance of a charge down the mast to the vehicle to which the unit is attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Assignee: Featherstone Teamed Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Harry Featherstone, Kevan A. Davis, Bryan L. Cooper
  • Patent number: 6385922
    Abstract: A solar light enclosure is provided with a light receiving top opening and a light emitting bottom opening. The enclosure also includes lateral light extraction panels for emitting light from the sides of the enclosure. The panels may incorporate lens structures, prisms, baffles and reflector elements to transmit light in selected lateral directions. The panels may be attached to the enclosure by hinges and be tiltable away from the enclosure to further enhance illumination toward selected side areas. The enclosure interior may include light control partitions to direct portions of light toward the light extraction panels while simultaneously transmitting other portions of light downwardly and out the enclosure bottom opening. The partitions may be sized, shaped and adjusted angularly to create patterns of light for illuminating specified work areas, hallways and architectural structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Inventor: John A. Mors
  • Patent number: 6363662
    Abstract: A combined gutter guard and storage compartment device (10) for housing a string of decorative lights (300) adjacent the roof line (100) of a house (101) having a rain gutter (200). The device (10) includes a generally elongated rectangular gutter guard member (20) having a tapered proximal end (22) attached to the roof (100), an intermediate portion (23) provided with drainage slots (26) that communicates with the rain gutter (200) and a distal end (24) which overlies the end of the rain gutter (200). The distal end (24) also forms the roof portion (33) of a compartment member (30) dimensioned to receive a string of decorative lights (300). The compartment member (30) is further provided with a closure panel (34) having a latching arrangement (40) which can selectively dispose the closure panel (34) at either a fully closed or partially open disposition relative to the compartment member (30) to selectively expose the string of decorative lights (300).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Inventor: Joseph R. Coates
  • Patent number: 6354042
    Abstract: An improved umbrella runner structure is disclosed. The improvements are primarily the design of partition flanges on the top face of the runner. Two thick partition flanges in conjunction with two coupling portions of the runner form four compartments arranged symmetrically. Each compartment can accommodate the inner ends of two stretchers so that a total of eight stretchers are attached to the runner to form an eight-stretcher system. The umbrella stretcher system using the runner according to the invention has the advantage of enhanced strength and simplified construction and it can reduce the possibility of being damaged while it can reach a more compact size than a prior art one. Besides, it also provides convenience in carrying.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Inventor: Shih-Shin Kuo
  • Patent number: 6341466
    Abstract: A new and useful clip is disclosed for securing an elongate member, or lather's channel, to a horizontal T-bar of a ceiling grid, conventionally used to form a drop ceiling. The clip comprises a body having a downwardly opening recess therein for permitting the body to be placed over the lather's channel, without removing the channel from the T-bar. The lather's channel is in a seated position in which the channel is received in the recess of the clip. The clip has clasps depending from the body configured so that as the body is moved toward its seated position, the clasps assume positions on opposite sides of the stem of the T-bar for clasping the T-bar and securing the clip to the T-bar. The clip further includes a spring finger formed integrally with the body. The finger is engageable with the lather's channel as the body is moved to its seated position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2002
    Assignee: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventors: Kenneth H. Kehoe, Eric R. Rinderer
  • Patent number: 6338460
    Abstract: A siding mounted light clip is described for releasable attachment to a lap type siding member. The clip includes a clip body with a light mount part and a siding mount part. The siding mount part includes a base member with a flange configured to slide under a lap type siding member. A leg member extends from the base member to the light mount part. A resilient clamp member is mounted to the leg member and forms an expandable siding receiving recess with the flange. A lap type siding member may be releasably gripped within the expandable siding receiving recess between the flange and resilient clamp member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2002
    Inventor: Donald D. Rumpel
  • Patent number: 6324798
    Abstract: Disclosed is a partition device that divides an original interior room into plural room sections which may be illuminated evenly and simultaneously by a common lighting fixture. This partition comprises one or more of wall panels (1, 2a-2d), connected to one another, which are upstanding from a floor toward a ceiling of an original room interior over a predetermined height. Each of the wall panels includes an opening 3, (4) along a common vertical axis. A single lighting fixture (5) is mounted within a space defined by cooperation of openings (3, 4) of the wall panels for illuminating, at the same time, all of room sections divided by the wall panels. The wall panels may comprise a main panel (1) and plural auxiliary panels (2a-2d) hinged to the center axis of the main panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Assignee: Weinberg Distribution Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Masahiro Kojima
  • Patent number: 6286265
    Abstract: A support for mounting a lighting fixture in recessed position in a suspension ceiling of inverted T-bars extending generally parallel to one another and spaced apart a certain distance. The support is in the form of an elongate sheet metal bar for installation in generally vertical position bridging two T-bars. As installed, the sheet metal bar has upper and lower edges and a pair of notches in its lower edge spaced apart the aforesaid distance. The sheet metal bar is placeable in a bridging position on the two inverted T-bars with the two T-bars extending through the notches in the support bar. The sheet metal bar has end portions extending outward beyond the notches. Each end portion includes a primary tab bendable to extend generally at right angles with respect to the sheet metal bar in position extending alongside an outside face of the respective inverted T-bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Assignee: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventor: Eric R. Rinderer
  • Patent number: 6286980
    Abstract: An insulation damming device formed from a moisture-proof and fire-retardant material for preventing the build up of thermal insulation around a recessed lighting fixture, fan or other heat producing device is installed in an attic. The device is formed from a vented cover member, a set of vented side panels and a set of mounting flaps. The vents are disposed at regular intervals along the side panels and cover to allow heat and moisture to escape from the enclosed area. Additionally, the vents can be covered with louvers to insure that no insulation enters the area enclosed by the insulation damming device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Inventor: Donald L. Meyer
  • Patent number: 6272794
    Abstract: A recessed fixture housing in which the major components are designed with taper fits to allow the components to be pressed together in assembly to create an air-seal engagement construction. The fixture housing also provides a junction box accessible from either the room side or the attic side of a fixture, while maintaining a sealed fixture housing. Further, a recessed fixture frame for use with a housing of maximal size to be installed between building structural members with mounting bars having protruding tabs. Mounting bar brackets are inset from each frame side an amount sufficient to accommodate the tabs between the building structural member and the bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Assignee: Genlyte Thomas Group LLC
    Inventors: Graham M. Rippel, Mark O. Jones, Robert J. Wedekind, Robert C. Ferzan
  • Patent number: 6263619
    Abstract: A three piece mounting device for attaching a fan or similar electrical fixture to a cathedral ceiling. The mounting device of the present invention comprises a rectangular box having an open top and an optionally enclosed bottom, and a pair of opposed extended side walls shaped to engage the center point of cathedral ceilings. The opposed extended side walls are inserted into slots or other mechanical engagement devices in opposing walls of the rectangular box, are of substantially uniform thickness throughout their height and incorporate a plurality of score lines to permit easy truncation of the opposed side walls to adapt to a plurality of ceiling angles. The mounting device of the present invention may include an inverted integral electrical outlet box in the rectangular box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2001
    Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
  • Patent number: 6260319
    Abstract: A protective barrier comprising a footing which is buried in the ground and supports a frame for supporting one or more panels. The panels internally comprise sound-deadening and/or air-filtering material and are constituted so as to have at least one finely perforated lateral surface, a finely perforated upper surface for collecting rainwater and a finely perforated bottom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Assignee: Gennaker Holding S.A.
    Inventor: Massimo Colomban
  • Patent number: 6256947
    Abstract: The present invention includes an improved tubular skylight system (10) having a clear acrylic outer dome (20), an aluminum flashing (40), an aluminum light tube (60), an aluminum ceiling plaster ring (80), and a prismatic diffuser (100). The outer dome (20) includes an aluminum ring (24) around the base (22) of the dome (20) which contains a circular channel (32) and holes (34). The aluminum ring (24) allows the outer acrylic dome (20) to be attached directly to the flashing (40) thereby substantially decreasing the risk of crack formation in the acrylic dome (20). Moreover, the surface of the acrylic dome (20) is imprinted to refract, a substantially increased amount of the natural light down into the light tube (60). The lower end (64) of the light tube (60) extends to the inside of the ceiling and sits on the plaster ring (80). The upper end (62) of the light tube (60) is reciprocally received in the flashing (40), but the outer dome (20) attaches directly to the flashing (40).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Assignee: Solatube International, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis Grubb
  • Patent number: 6250019
    Abstract: A furniture arrangement includes an overhead support defining an elongated overhead utility channel, and one or more lamps attached to the overhead support in recesses formed by the utility channel. A dome-shaped reflector or gull-wing-shaped light-distributing member is attached to the overhead support for distributing light from the lamps downwardly into side areas around the overhead support. The light-distributing members are positioned to both distribute light from the lamp and to visually shield contents of the utility channel from people standing around (or above) the side areas. The utility channel forms light-source recesses for receiving the lamps and lamp ballasts, and wireway recesses for receiving lay-in wiring and utilities, which wiring and utilities are guided by the light-distributing members into the wireway recesses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2001
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: George J. Simons, Jr., Mark A. Buchalter, Howard M. Montgomery, Yasuyuki Hirai, Gregory M. Tanis
  • Patent number: 6226939
    Abstract: The application discloses a fire protection cover for an electrical device recessed into a wall or ceiling, said, comprising one or more support layers coated with one or more layers of intumescent material. The device is especially useful for suspended ceilings or partition walls for preventing the passage of fire into or out of the ceiling or wall cavity. The cover may comprise one or more apertures to enable the cover to be ventilated and/or for access to cabling. In particular, the cover may be made of a mesh or perforated sheet. In the event of a fire, the intumescent material tumesces to block any holes within the cover or holes between the cover and wall or ceiling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Nullifire Limited
    Inventors: Clive Anthony Atkins, Nigel Christopher Maris
  • Patent number: 6185888
    Abstract: A post. The post includes a rigid support structure. The post includes a plurality of pieces. Each piece has a hole extending through it so the piece can fit into the support structure and remain in place on the support structure. Each piece is stackable upon another piece. A method for installing a post. The method includes the steps of placing a rigid support structure on ground. Then there is the step of aligning a hole of a piece over the support structure. Next there is the step of moving the piece down onto the ground so the support structure extends through the hole and the support structure maintains the piece in place. Then there is the step of aligning a hole of another piece over the support structure. Next there is the step of moving the other piece down onto the piece so the support structure extends through the hole of the other piece and the support structure maintains the piece in place. A method of forming a stone for a post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Inventor: Charles T. Wasson
  • Patent number: 6173935
    Abstract: A mounting device for attaching a fan or similar electrical fixture to a cathedral ceiling either at the center of the ceiling or in a pitched section thereof during construction is described. The mounting device comprises; 1) a rectangular box having an open top, a closed bottom, at least two opposing extended side walls and at least one short side wall of about the same depth as; 2) an integral electrical outlet box having a center screw hole, forming a part of the closed bottom and having its open end approximately coplanar with the outer surface of the closed bottom. According to a first embodiment, the extended sidewalls are of a shape to fit the peak of a cathedral ceiling and the mounting device includes two opposing short sidewalls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2001
    Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
  • Patent number: 6145253
    Abstract: A head wall apparatus includes a support configured to be coupled to a wall. A front panel is coupled to the support to define an interior region of the head wall. A plurality of first gas blocks are coupled to the support, and a plurality of second gas blocks are also coupled to the support spaced apart from the first gas blocks. Each of the first and second gas blocks have an inlet and an outlet. The apparatus further includes a plurality of first and second gas supply hoses located in the interior region which are coupled to the first and second gas supply blocks, respectively. At least one divider is coupled to the support within the interior region. The at least one divider is configured to separate the first and second gas supply hoses into first and second separate pathways within the interior region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Assignee: Hill-Rom, Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis J. Gallant, Edward W. Catton, Steven R. Westerfeld
  • Patent number: 6138416
    Abstract: A beam for grid in a suspended ceiling that has an increased effective beam height over prior art beams. The beam has a peak at the top, which conforms to the shape of a standard light fixture box frame supported by the beam in the ceiling. The beam does not interfere with the proper support of the fixture frame on the beam flanges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Assignee: Worthington Armstrong Venture
    Inventor: William J. Platt
  • Patent number: 6105334
    Abstract: A structure for use in conjunction with a recessed fixture is provided which includes a substantially rectangular housing defining a top wall and side walls. Each of the walls has exterior and interior wall surfaces, and at least the interior wall surfaces of the housing are coated with a fire resistant material. Flanges depend outwardly from bottom edges of side walls of the housing to facilitate mounting of the housing between spaced apart building joists. The housing is coated with the fire resistant material prior to installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: Logic Construction Systems, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Kevin J. Monson, Christopher D. Jensen, Edward V. Calo
  • Patent number: 6088967
    Abstract: A string light display box having a box shaped cross section for supporting string or tube bulb lighting in a predetermined place on a structure. The display box has a top wall, a bottom wall and a rear wall to enclose a plurality of light bulbs such as along a decorative string lighting. The rear wall has a wire keeper attached thereto with said wire keeper formed of two parallel extrusions extending perpendicularly from a back wall of the wire keeper. The parallel extrusions extending longitudinally along the display box forming a wire channel for accommodating wiring of the string lighting. The keeper having a slight ridge on an inner edge making the opening of the keeper narrower than the wire channel formed by the parallel extrusions to hold the wire of the string lighting in place. The wire keeper may be removably mountable upon a rear wall by way of a catch and a keeper slide with each said rear wall catch and said keeper slide extending from the rear wall of the display box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Inventor: Wayne A Johnson
  • Patent number: 6058635
    Abstract: A door frame construction 10 including a hollow generally inverted U-shaped door frame member 20 having a pair of side channels 21, 22, and an overhead channel 23 provided with a plurality of illuminated exit sign units 12 and an emergency light unit 13. The exit sign units 12 and the emergency light unit 13 are electrically connected to one another by electrical wiring 101 disposed within the hollow door frame member 20 to provide integrated exit signage into the door frame member 20.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Inventor: Raymond T. Morris
  • Patent number: 6032432
    Abstract: A modular panel and method for constructing light fixtures. The modular panel includes an elongated main panel with a curved cross section. The panel is preferably manufactured using an extrusion process. The side edges of the panel feature a pair of spaced-apart lips defining an elongated slot or receiving area for mateably accommodating a cooperating side edge of an adjacent part or panel for a tongue-in-groove connection. The panel has evenly spaced fins along the surface to provide structural integrity as well as to scatter light passing through the panel. Multiple panels being assembled with adjacent intermediate adjoining panels forming a housing having a closed cross section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Assignee: Genlyte Thomas Group LLC
    Inventor: Anthony G. Patti
  • Patent number: 6026626
    Abstract: An elongate truss 10 comprises a framework 14 of spars 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26. The truss 10 is open on one aspect and has the transverse cross section of a regular trapezium. This enables identical trusses to be stacked up for storage or transporting an internested manner one on top of the other. In addition, lights 62 may be mounted inside the truss 10 and drapes 72 are hung from one side of the truss 10. A removable cross brace 42 may be provided for connection at the open aspect of the truss between lower longitudinal spars 18 to prevent splaying of the truss when under load. The brace 42 may be stored by attachment to intermediate cross chords 22. A stack 10' of trusses may be stored on a trolley 28 and easily manhandled. A substantial number of the trusses, when stacked, may be stored in a set volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Inventor: Mark Eliott Fisher
  • Patent number: 6019481
    Abstract: A light fixture apparatus including a support frame, a light box coupled to the support frame and a hollow housing portion coupled to the support frame alongside the light box. An opening is provided in the housing and a horizontal electrical outlet is in the housing portion opposite the opening. The housing portion includes the first cover pivotally coupled to the support frame at a first end and spaced from the support frame at a second end to form the opening. A second cover is secured in the housing to enclose the wiring of the electrical outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2000
    Assignee: Hill-Rom, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas C. Ambach, Dale A. Nobbe
  • Patent number: 5943827
    Abstract: Block assembly for use in retaining wall systems. The block assembly includes a body having a front surface, a rear surface, a top surface, and a bottom surface. A formed recess is located within the block having a recess opening extending out the front surface, for accepting a light fixture assembly. A light fixture assembly may be positioned within the recess and coupled to a power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Assignee: Concrete Products of New London, Inc.
    Inventor: Larry D. Okerlund
  • Patent number: 5915848
    Abstract: A clip for mounting a light strip along the side of a pool. The clip is mounted on an arm of a cove strip. The clip is shaped to support the light strip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1999
    Inventor: Ted E. Deason
  • Patent number: 5890326
    Abstract: A head wall apparatus includes a support configured to be coupled to a wall, and a front panel coupled to the support to define an interior region of the head wall. The front panel includes an elongated opening. The apparatus also includes a gas block having an inlet and an outlet, and a shield configured to extend over the opening. The shield defines a track for slidably coupling the gas block to the head wall. The shield is configured to block access to the interior region of the head wall. A gas supply line located in the interior region of the head wall is coupled to the inlet of the gas block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1999
    Assignee: Hill-Rom, Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis J. Gallant, Linda A. Hillier, Dale A. Nobbe, Ares Marasligiller, Michael Buccieri, Douglas C. Ambach
  • Patent number: 5848498
    Abstract: A casket display structure has a back wall and wing walls that are removably-attached to the back wall to form an alcove. A double-tiered display rack is mounted between the wing walls. The display structure includes a lower casket rollout rack connected to the fixed double-tiered rack by a scissors unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1998
    Assignee: Batesville Casket Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Lajos L. Szabo, Sr., Lajos L. Szabo, Jr., Alton F. Doody, Dennis J. Riga
  • Patent number: 5829202
    Abstract: A system of internal structuring of establishments for the marketing of telecommunications services, consisting of a group of elements configuring a commercial establishment contemplating the repetitive succession of a number of identical porticos which structure the usable space of the premises, the porticos consisting of columns and illuminating beams supported thereon, to which different modules structuring divisions by areas or modes of attention to clients are incorporated, with identification of a cabinet, a zone for presentation of services, a zone for promotion of services or emphasis thereon, a zone or area for experimentation, a zone for assistance or information, an area of personalized attention to clients and an area for exhibition of available equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Assignee: Telefonica de Espana, S.A.
    Inventors: Antonio Canton Gongora, Carlos Jesus Cruz Fernandez, Jose Maria Munagorri Enriquez, Juan Carlos Rayo Ortiguela
  • Patent number: 5794397
    Abstract: A ceiling structure for retaining air filter panels having a grid of interconnected rails. Each rail has a recessed channel for containing a light fixture so that the light fixture does not hang below the ceiling surface. The structure may also include hanger hooks attachable to the rails for suspending fixtures, wall panels, and pivoting wall headers to permit angled arrangements of wall panels. The light fixture attached within the channel is an extruded panel that snaps into the channel and which includes standard light tube connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Assignee: Cleanpak International, Inc.
    Inventor: Craig S. Ludwig
  • Patent number: 5778625
    Abstract: A recessed lighting fixture includes a back housing which is secured to a form board for receiving poured concrete such that the concrete sets around the housing to form a recessed area in a concrete structure. The form board is joined to a stiffener plate to support the housing under the force of the concrete. The form board and stiffener plate are removed from the back housing and the internal components of the lighting fixture are disposed in and secured to the interior of the back housing to form a recessed lighting fixture which is flush with the surface of the structure, for example a concrete wall. The internal components of the fixture may subsequently be removed and replaced should the need arise as only the back housing is fixed to the concrete wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1998
    Assignee: Bega/US, Inc.
    Inventors: James B. Druffel, Larry L. Routh
  • Patent number: 5775032
    Abstract: A reversible wall mounting plate adapted for mounting to a surface of stepped siding comprising two pieces, a frame and a face portion. The frame, which is symmetrical about an axis, has a continuous wall with opposite first and second free-edge surfaces. Both free-edge surfaces are configured in a stepped fashion and have at least two portions of convex curvature. The convex portions of the first free-edge surface have different dimensions from the convex portions of the second free-edge surface in order to accommodate differently sized siding. The face portion includes a front wall with a peripheral wall extending therefrom; the face portion and frame have cooperating mating elements permitting the face portion to be releasably attached to the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Assignee: Vantage Products Corporation
    Inventor: Michael A. Lacy
  • Patent number: 5743060
    Abstract: A truss assembly (10) for supporting lights (30) is described. The assembly includes a truss frame (12) with individual units (16) within which is mounted electric lights. The truss frame has end plates (34) at each end (12B) and rotatable plates (52) mounted onto each end plate by bushings (58) which are fixably mounted within the rotatable plates. Locking assemblies (64) extend through the rotating plates and into indexing holes (50) in the end plates. Support receivers (70) are attached to the rotatable plates and mount on top of support stands (74) in order to keep the truss assembly in an elevated position. In a second embodiment, the truss frames are joined together to form a longer truss assembly. Several truss assemblies are connected together by forked support stands 78 at the corners to create a truss system 80 which encloses an arena 86. The fixed bushings within the rotatable plates enable the truss frame with the electric lights to be rotated into various positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1998
    Inventors: Jerry R. Hayes, Patrick F. Pasch
  • Patent number: 5722208
    Abstract: An improved system for mounting electrical devices, such as lighting fixtures, switches, communication receptacles for telephones, television cables, etc., especially on exterior walls having lapped type siding or shingles comprises a one or two-piece wall mounting frame with an integrally molded electrical junction box which is flush mounted on a wall without cutting or drilling large openings to accommodate a protruding junction box, and without altering vertical supporting studs or other framing members when in alignment with such wall mounting systems. Products of the invention are molded with a narrowed gap between an interior flange and an exterior flange to allow an optimal fit with siding products while maintaining the required depth of the electrical junction box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1998
    Assignee: Thermo Plastic Works, Inc.
    Inventors: Phil A. Humphrey, Weldon C. Humphrey
  • Patent number: 5680730
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a coping for use in a swimming pool. A base is configured for connecting to a sidewall of the pool. A wall is connected to the base and includes a facia. The facia has a first slot for receiving and retaining a liner bead therein and a second slot for receiving and retaining a tube light therein. The first slot and the second slot extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the coping. The coping is of monolithic, metal construction. With the slot receiving the tube light having a circular cross-section. A coping clip is utilized to attach end-to-end coping pieces to one another with the clip extending from the top edge of the coping to the light receiving slot without obscuring the light receiving slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 28, 1997
    Assignee: Fort Wayne Plastics, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas A. Epple
  • Patent number: 5623789
    Abstract: A light support assembly for installation and use in a timber construction roof eaves overhang; of the type having a pair of adjoining roof rafters, a facia board, and a soffit board or plane for positioning a soffit board if desired or anticipated; is disclosed. The support assembly is provided with a coupling having a biased channel for firmly sliding and supporting at least two frame tracks for extension and retraction within the spacing provided within adjacently constructed roof rafters in a roof overhang area, and for attachment to each of the rafters. The coupling, then supported by the secured tracks, supports and has attached to it an electric box for receiving lighting or electric fixture or wiring in the roof area where the assembly is inherently designed to be installed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 29, 1997
    Inventors: Steven A. Kidwell, John N. Forrester
  • Patent number: 5598670
    Abstract: An improved system for mounting electrical devices, such as lighting fixtures, switches, communication receptacles for telephones, television cables, etc., especially on exterior walls having lapped type siding or shingles comprises a one or two-piece wall mounting frame with an integrally molded electrical junction box which is flush mounted on a wall without cutting or drilling large openings to accommodate a protruding junction box, and without altering vertical supporting studs or other framing members when in alignment with such wall mounting systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 4, 1997
    Assignee: Thermo Plastic Works, Inc.
    Inventors: Phil A. Humphrey, Weldon C. Humphrey
  • Patent number: 5592786
    Abstract: A wall protector is shown which comprises a metallic bumper portion having a generally hollow interior. The bumper is clamped to a holding bracket which is in turn fastened to a wall-mounted bracket. A light source is mounted on the bumper to provide illumination. The holding bracket can be mounted and repositioned along the length of the bumper and the fastener attaching the holding bracket to the mounting bracket is accessible from beneath the latter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1997
    Assignee: Wilkinson Company
    Inventor: Christian P. Kamm
  • Patent number: 5586742
    Abstract: Light standard apparatus includes a post made of nonconductive (plastic) material topped or closed at the top by a plastic cap. A light fixture or other electrical element is secured to the cap either directly or through a bushing. A noncorrosive ground element is secured to the cap on the bushing for grounding the fixture or element to a ground conductor which extends into the post along with current conductors. The post is secured to a base, and the base is appropriately secured to a pad or to the earth. Appropriate fasteners are used to secure the base and the post in place. Earth anchors may be used, as required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1996
    Inventor: E. Ray Carter
  • Patent number: 5581956
    Abstract: An arrangement for mounting decorative lights on a variety of external building structures, including roof shingles, soffits, vinyl or metal gutters or the like, includes a mounting member having a support portion including at least one substantially cylindrical confining portion for receiving a portion of the respective decorative light. The mounting member further includes a mounting portion including a central portion extending substantially along the same plane as the support portion, and a pair of angled lateral portions flanking the central portion and extending out of the plane and back to it as considered in a direction away from the support portion. The central portion and the pair of lateral portions are operative for engaging oppositely facing surfaces of the respective building structure to at least frictionally detain the mounting member and, thus, the decorative light in place on the building structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1996
    Assignee: Noma International, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles W. Fennessy, Ivan Liu, David A. Parshad, Frank Lang
  • Patent number: 5577830
    Abstract: An awning comprises an outer sheet of flexible material supported on a rigid translucent support. The awning is illuminated by strip lights mounted on a support framework, which is stepped back from the rigid translucent support. An even illumination is achieved with no shadow lines on the flexible sheet. The sheet may have advertising indicia or logos.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1996
    Assignee: Illuminated Awning Systems Limited
    Inventors: Martin Barry, David McKeown
  • Patent number: 5577702
    Abstract: A wall mounting bracket comprising a plastic body which includes a wall having an integral projection facing outwardly with a centering recess to receive the tip of a hole saw or the like. At least one opening is provided through the wall adjacent the projection. Preferably, a plurality of openings are provided at equally spaced radial locations adjacent the projection. In use, the body is mounted on the building and then siding is applied to the wall of the building and the edges of the siding or brought into closely adjacent relation with the plastic body. In a preferred form, the centering recess is provided on both sides of the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1996
    Assignee: Mid-America Building Products Corporation
    Inventors: Norman L. Chubb, Richard J. MacLeod, Charles E. Schiedegger
  • Patent number: 5551199
    Abstract: A truss assembly (10) for supporting lights (30) is described. The assembly includes a truss frame (12) with individual units (16) within which is mounted electric lights. The truss frame has end plates (34) at each end (12B) and rotatable plates (52) mounted onto each end plate by bushings (58) which are fixably mounted within the rotatable plates. Locking assemblies (64) extend through the rotating plates and into indexing holes (50) in the end plates. Support receivers (70) are attached to the rotatable plates and mount on top of support stands (74) in order to keep the truss assembly in an elevated position. In a second embodiment, the truss frames are joined together to form a longer truss assembly. Several truss assemblies are connected together by forked support stands 78 at the corners to create a truss system 80 which encloses an arena 86. The fixed bushings within the rotatable plates enable the truss frame with the electric lights to be rotated into various positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 3, 1996
    Inventors: Jerry R. Hayes, Patrick F. Pasch
  • Patent number: 5546712
    Abstract: A system and method for natural light illumination of residential and commercial buildings. A tubular skylight, the system comprises a highly reflective tubular body positioned in the space between a building's roof and ceiling with a first end with a supporting lip attached to a roof assembly, and a second end attached to a ceiling assembly. The roof assembly further comprises a semi-spherical transparent globe and a molded roof mount with a tapered sleeve. The ceiling assembly comprises a semi-spherical, light diffusing cap and a molded ceiling mount with a straight sleeve. In a preferred embodiment of the system, the first end of the tubular body is inserted through the tapered sleeve and supported therein by a right angle supporting lip and the second end of the tubular body is positioned over the sleeve of the ceiling mount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1996
    Inventor: Joseph A. Bixby