Simulated neon light using led's

Abstract

A neon light is simulated using light emitting diodes as a light source. An elongated, translucent diffuser of circular cross-sections is mated with an elongated opaque tubular housing of constant cross-section with a lengthwise slot. The diffuser is held in longitudinally aligned abutment against the edges of the housing slot to form a chamber between the housing and the diffuser from which light may only be emitted through the diffuser. A plurality of light emitting diodes is aligned in a linear array in the chamber. The reflection and refraction of light by the tubular diffuser produces a neon-like glow or glare along the exposed surface of the diffuser. The housing has a maximum width not greater than the diameter of the diffuser, so that the housing is hidden behind the diffuser. The diodes may be electrically connected in patterns of alternating sequential activation to give a flashing, mono-chromatic effect and may be color coded according to the patterns of alternating sequential activation to give a flashing, color changing effect to the fixture. Preferably, the housing is sufficiently resiliently flexible to permit the diffuser to be disengaged from and reengaged with the housing so as to permit maintenance of the fixture without removal from its location. This LED simulation affords a durable, low voltage, low energy, non-gaseous, inexpensive, easy to install, easy to maintain, chromatically versatile, long life fixture which looks like neon light and demands the attention of the observer.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.