Solid state traffic light apparatus having a cover including an integral lens
AssigneePower Signal Technologies, Inc.
InventorMichael C. Hutchison
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A solid state light apparatus suited for use in traffic control signals and having a unitary transparent cover generating a homogenous light beam. A solid state light source comprises an area array of LEDs uniformly illuminating a light diffuser to achieve the homogenous light beam. The unitary cover has a lens defined at an inner portion thereof, and an outer portion encompassing the lens adapted to sealingly secure to the apparatus housing. The lens is continuous with the outer portion such that water and other environmental elements can not penetrate into the housing electronics.
Claims18
A solid state light apparatus, comprising:
- a housing having a cavity;
- an area array of light emitting diodes (LEDs) disposed in said housing cavity and generating a light beam;
- a unitary cover coupled to said housing and disposed across said cavity, said cover having an integral central portion and rim portion, said central portion being convex and shaped as a lens, said lens transmitting said light beam emitted by said LED area array, and said rim portion extending outwardly from said lens, wherein said cover rim portion includes a second lens separated from said central portion lens;
- and
- an electronic detection device disposed in said housing cavity and being viewable through said second lens.
A method of controlling traffic using a solid state light apparatus, comprising:
- a housing having a cavity;
- an area array of light emitting diodes (LEDs) disposed in said housing cavity and generating a light beam;
- a unitary cover coupled to said housing and disposed across said cavity, said cover having an integral central portion and rim portion, said central portion being convex and shaped as a lens, said lens transmitting said light beam emitted by said LED area array, and said rim portion extending outwardly from said lens wherein said cover rim portion includes a second lens separated from said central portion lens;
- and
- an electronic detection device disposed in said housing cavity and being viewable through a transparent portion of said cover second lens, comprising the step of:
- selectively operating said light apparatus at a roadway intersection.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.