Fluorescent table lamp having a modular support adapter using a replaceable electronic ballast
US6390646B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 6, 2000 |
| Grant date | May 21, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 6, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF21Y2103/33
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
The present invention relates primarily to a modular replaceable ballast as used in a table or floor lamp using a circular fluorescent lamp as the primary source of illumination. Circular fluorescent lamps have been in use for many years to provide superior operating and lighting efficiency. These lamps can provide many years of trouble free performance, obviating the need for frequent replacement that is needed by comparable wattage incandescent bulbs. The ballasts, on the other hand, have not enjoyed the same degree of success of having similar reduced failure rates. The present invention utilizes a plug-in replaceable electronic ballast which can easily be replaced by a novice person. Because this ballast is plugged into a compatible adapter receptacle, the need for dismantling or disassembling the fixture is thereby obviated. The plug-in electronic ballast has two centrally located pins that insert into the newly designed modular receptacle. Two locking tabs engage with compatible recesses in the receptacle to secure the electronic ballast to the adapter receptacle, where the ballast pins mate with the female receptacles in the modular adapter. The modular adapter housing is su…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.