Light shield for an illumination system

Abstract

The Dual Spectrum Illumination System (DSIS) is a modular light source having two independent emitters of optical radiation. A halogen bulb provides a high intensity visible beam. The second source of emissions is a ring of light emitting diodes (LED). The LED ring can be configured to supply area illumination, beam illumination, or a combination of area and beam illumination. The spectrum emitted by the LED is selectable from the wide range of commercially available diodes. The illumination system provides a beam and infrared area lighting using 21 high power, 6 watt, LEDs emitting at 880 nanometers mounted on the ring. Illumination control electronics are provided on a printed circuit assembly to provide the diodes with the correct current and voltage. A second embodiment of the invention is as a direct replacement for aircraft landing lights, mobile vehicle head lights, and any other situation requiring beam illumination. This embodiment of the DSIS provides high intensity beams of visible light and infrared light and is particularly suited for U.S. Air Force covert operations. The system includes a mounting plate having a plurality of receptacles that receive the LEDs. Shield are provided that each surround a portion of selected receptacles in order to block infrared light that would otherwise impinge upon the cockpit of the aircraft.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.