Fluorescent lamp fixture and heater

#The field of the present invention is fixtures and equipment for fluorescent lamps.

#Fluorescent lighting has long provided cost effective, efficient and low heat artificial light sources finding utility, inter alia, for outdoor signage. However, the brightness and striking requirements are affected by colder environments. The striking of such lamps in cold conditions is easily accommodated through an increase in the capability of the ballast. Once struck, brightness continues to be an issue when the lamp is cold.

#The present invention is directed to fixtures for fluorescent lamps and a heater associated therewith.

#FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a fixture for a fluorescent lamp with the components artificially shown in transparency for greater understanding.

#FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the high voltage end of the fixture.

#FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view looking at the high voltage end of the fixture.

#Turning in detail to the Figures, FIG. 1 illustrates a lamp fixture including a housing 10, housing end caps 12, 14 and an electrical access cap 16. A transparent lens 18 closes the housing 10.

#Within the housing 10, two socket brackets 20, 22 are positioned at opposing ends. Each bracket 20, 22 includes conventional anchoring feet 24, 26 and a platform 28 upon which are mounted opposed sockets 30, 32, respectively. Mounting wings 34, 36 diverge from the platform 28.

#The opposed sockets 30, 32 provide a high voltage end lamp socket 30 and a low voltage end lamp socket 32. The opposed sockets 30, 32 define a fluorescent lamp location extending therebetween. Alternatively, if fluorescent lamps which mate with a single socket are contemplated, the fluorescent lamp location simply extends axially from a single socket 30 for the length of a contemplated lamp.