Multi-electrode array for a beam mode fluorescent lamp
US4450380A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 4, 1982 |
| Grant date | May 22, 1984 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 4, 2002 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01J63/08
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
The lamp shown herein is a beam mode fluorescent lamp for general lighting applications. The lamp comprises a light transmitting envelope, having a phosphor coating on its inner surface, the envelope encloses a thermionic cathode having a number of segments for emitting electrons, a plurality of anodes for accelerating the electrons and forming a corresponding number of electron beams, and a fill material, such as mercury, which emits ultraviolet radiation upon excitation. The multi-electrode array configuration provides an extended region of electron beam excitation and thereby more visible light. A single power source and pair of connecting conductors perform both cathode heating current and electrode potential difference functions. In addition, this configuration provides for a greater and more complete discharge of the volume within the envelope than single electrode elements. The present invention permits a higher operating voltage, lower power density and a lower operating temperature for the lamp.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.