Patent ID: 6481130
Filing Date: 2002-11-19
Classification: F21V,F21Y,G02B

Abstract:
A focused linear array of light emitting diodes for illuminating a sign, comprising:a linear array of light emitting diodes (LEDs) for producing a light output, the linear array of LEDs includes: an elongated mounting member, and a plurality of LEDs mounted along a length of the mounting member; and an elongated lens stripe attached to the linear array of LEDs, the lens stripe includes: a reflector portion having two elongated and opposing side walls that form an elongated channel, the side walls are light reflective, wherein the LEDs are disposed inside the channel such that the side walls reflect the light output from the LEDs toward an elongated open end of the channel, and a lens portion having an elongated lens disposed along the open end of the channel for focusing the light output from the LEDs onto the sign; wherein:the elongated lens has an entrance surface facing the channel and an exit surface opposing the entrance surface, one of the entrance surface and the exit surface has a non-planar shape for focusing the light output from the LED's, the channel side walls include grooves formed therein, and the lens portion includes tabs that engage with the grooves for securing the lens portion to the reflector portion.