US 5,436,815 AGranted

Fluorescent utility light

OwnerMichael P. Grooms, Pamela J. Groomsinventors

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Abstract

A portable fluorescent utility light makes advantageous use of one or more generally U-shaped fluorescent tubes by utilizing a transparent end cap or lens at the opposite end of the device from the electrical contact end. Thus, the present light may transmit light from the sides of the cylindrically shaped unit, and also from the end of the device. The relatively narrow end dimension, in comparison to the relatively long length of the cylinder, enables the device to be inserted into relatively small areas, in the manner of a conventional incandescent flashlight, but providing the additional benefit of light emission from the sides of the tube as well. Additional features may be provided, such as a refracting lens to focus the light emitted from the end of the tube, a variety of interchangeable temporary attachment devices, an internal reflector, and/or remotely locating the transformer or ballast and switch and sealing the unit to preclude explosive hazard from vapor ignition.

Claims12

Dependent claims

A portable fluorescent utility light comprising:

a base portion adapted for the physical and electrical installation of at least one generally U-shaped fluorescent tube and having said at least one generally U-shaped fluorescent tube installed therein;
a power receiving end having a power cord extending therefrom and enclosing said base portion;
and
an opposite removable, toroidally shaped end cap, with a generally cylindrical transparent cover extending between said power receiving end and said end cap and surrounding said at least one fluorescent tube, with said end cap having an open center with a transparent lens installed therein, said transparent lens having a lenticular shape and providing for the refraction and focusing of light passing through said transparent lens;
and
said at least one generally U-shaped fluorescent tube includes an arcuate bend therein, with said arcuate bend being disposed adjacent said transparent lens, whereby said fluorescent utility light provides illumination radiating from said generally cylindrical transparent cover and further illumination radiating from said transparent lens of said end cap.

3 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Facts

Application: 08/230,233Filed 20 Apr 1994 · continuation in part
Priority: 2 Nov 1993
Granted: 25 Jul 1995
Term ends: Not estimatedThe source records don’t support an estimate.

Classification8 codes

F21V 21/0965
Magnetic devices: for portable lighting devices
F21L 14/026
Capable of hand-held use, e.g. inspection lamps: having a linear light source
F21V 21/0925
Suction devices: for portable lighting devices
F21V 7/0058
Reflectors for light sources: adapted to cooperate with light sources of shapes different from point-like or linear, e.g. circular light sources