Abstract:
A protective cover for protecting a lighting device from direct contact with contaminants or components which may interfere with proper operation thereof. The contaminant (e.g., blood, body tissue, dirt, oil, grease, paint, etc.) or other component (e.g., adhesive pad) can interfere with the desired internal reflection of the light propogating through a light transmitting member, by changing the angle of reflection of the propagating light. The result is that optical energy is absorbed by the contaminant or component and converted to heat, thus causing the contaminant or component to quickly rise to an undesirable temperature. The present invention protects a lighting device from such interference, while maintaining its versatility.

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Application Ser. No. 08/886,666 filed Jul. 2, 1997, which is a continuation-in-part of: U.S. Application Ser. No. 08/778,089 filed Jan. 2, 1997, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,079,838, which is a divisional of U.S. Application Ser. No. 08/495,176 filed Jun. 27, 1995 (now U.S. Pat. No. 5,613,751); U.S. Application Ser. No. 08/778,180 filed Jan. 2, 1997, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,921,652, which is a divisional of U.S. Application Ser. No. 08/495,176 filed Jun. 27, 1995; and U.S. Application Ser. No. 08/778,734, filed Jan. 2, 1997, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,876,107 which is a divisional of U.S. Application Ser. No. 08/495,176 filed Jun. 27, 1995. The contents of these applications are herein incorporated by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD OF INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to a protective cover, and more particularly to a protective cover for protecting a lighting device from direct contact with contaminants or components which may interfere with proper operation thereof. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     A common source of light for a light delivery system has been large stationary light generators, such as a 300 Watt Xenon light generator. A long light pipe or cable is used to connect the stationary light generator with a hand-held light delivery system. The light delivery system is suitably attached to an associated instrument or tool, or may form an integral part of the instrument or tool. However, the stationary light generators have some significant drawbacks. First, they are often costly. Institutions, such as hospitals, are reluctant to make such purchases, thus limiting the number of available light sources. Second, the stationary light generators are not portable, and thus limit the range of movement of the associated instrument or tool. Furthermore, the use of a stationary light generator prevents the associated instrument or tool from being a fully self-contained device. In this respect, it may be desirable to dispose of devices used in a surgical operation to prevent contamination. 
     It has also been recognized that typical light sources are relatively high-powered (e.g., 300 Watts). These high-powered sources of electrical energy provide the light that in turn is carried by a light distributor, such as a light pipe. If a contaminant (e.g., blood, dirt, etc.) or other component (e.g., adhesive pad) is in direct contact with the light distributor, it may interfere with the desired internal reflection of the light propagating through the light distributor. The contaminant or component changes the angle of reflection of light traveling through the light distributor. Accordingly, the optical energy is absorbed by the contaminant or component, and converted to heat. Consequently, the contaminant or component may quickly heat up to an undesirable temperature. Accordingly, there is a need to protect a lighting device from such interference, while maintaining its versatility. 
     The present invention overcomes these and other disadvantages of prior art lighting devices. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     According to the present invention there is provided a protective cover or coating for shielding a light distributor from contact with contaminants or components associated with a lighting device. 
     An advantage of the present invention is the provision of a protective cover that prevents contaminants from interfering with the desired internal reflection of light propagating through a light distributor. 
     Another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a protective cover that prevents components for attaching accessory devices from interfering with the desired internal reflection of light propagating through a light distributor. 
     Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a protective cover that prevents contaminants and/or associated components from attenuating light traveling through a light distributor. 
     Yet another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a protective cover that prevents contaminants and/or associated components from heating up to an undesirable temperature level. 
     Still other advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon a reading and understanding of the following detailed description, accompanying drawings and appended claims. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     The invention may take physical form in certain parts and arrangements of parts, a preferred embodiment and method of which will be described in detail in this specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and wherein: 
     FIG. 1 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the light emitter shown in FIG. 4A; 
     FIG. 2 is an enlarged transverse section through the light emitter shown in FIG. 1; 
     FIG. 3A is an enlarged plan view of a portion of a light emitter, showing one form of pattern of light extracting deformities on the light emitter; 
     FIGS. 3B-3D are enlarged schematic perspective views of a portion of a light emitter showing other forms of light extracting deformities formed in or on the light emitter; 
     FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a light delivery system, wherein the light delivery system is attachable to a suction/blower device; 
     FIG. 4B is a perspective view of the light delivery system shown in FIG. 4A, as attached to the suction/blower device; 
     FIG. 4C is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the attachment means for the light delivery system; 
     FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a suction/blower device having an integrated light delivery system; 
     FIG. 5B is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along line  5 B— 5 B of FIG. 5A; 
     FIG. 5C is an alternative embodiment of the cross-sectional view taken along line  5 B— 5 B of FIG. 5A; 
     FIG. 6 is a perspective view of another type of suction/blower device having an integrated light delivery system; 
     FIG. 7 is a perspective view of yet another type of suction/blower device having an integrated light delivery system; 
     FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an electrosurgical pencil including the light delivery system of the present invention; 
     FIG. 9A is a perspective view of a transillumination tray including the light delivery system of the present invention; 
     FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view taken along line  9 B— 9 B of FIG. 9A, with a vein/artery located in the transillumination tray; 
     FIG. 10A is a perspective view of a stabilizer including an integrated light delivery system; 
     FIG. 10B is a side view of the stabilizer shown in FIG. 10A; 
     FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a plurality of retractors including a light delivery system; 
     FIG. 12 is a top view of a forceps including an integrated light delivery system; 
     FIG. 13 is aperspective view of a multi-purpose lighting device including a light delivery system; 
     FIG. 14 is a sectional view of the multi-purpose lighting device taken along line  14 — 14  of FIG. 13; 
     FIG. 15A is a perspective view of a lighting device including a light delivery system; 
     FIG. 15B is a sectional view of the lighting device taken along line  15 — 15  of FIG.  15 A. 
     FIG. 16A is a perspective view of a “rope” lighting device; 
     FIG. 16B is a cross-sectional view of the lighting device taken along line  16 — 16  of FIG. 16A; 
     FIG. 17 is a top view of a trans-illuminating forceps including an attachable light delivery system; 
     FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a trans-illuminating retractor including an attachable light delivery system; 
     FIG. 19A is a perspective view of a spring-formed “rope” lighting device; 
     FIG. 19B is a cross-sectional view of the lighting device taken along line  19 — 19  of FIG. 19A; 
     FIG. 20A is a perspective view of a smoke evacuation tube having an integrated light delivery system; 
     FIG. 20B is a cross-sectional view of the smoke evacuation tube taken along line  20 — 20  of FIG. 20A; 
     FIG. 21A is a perspective view of a suction tube having an integrated light delivery system; 
     FIG. 21B is a cross-sectional view of the suction tube taken along line  21 — 21  of FIG. 21A; 
     FIG. 22A is a perspective view of a suction tube having an attachable light delivery system; 
     FIG. 22B is a cross-sectional view of the suction tube taken along line  22 — 22  of FIG. 22A; 
     FIG. 23A is a perspective view of a ring-shaped “rope” lighting device; 
     FIG. 23B is a cross-sectional view of the lighting device taken along line  23 — 23  of FIG. 23A; 
     FIG. 24A is a perspective view of a protective cover applied to a light distributor, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
     FIG. 24B is a cross-sectional view of the protective cover, taken along line  24 B— 24 B of FIG. 24A; 
     FIG. 24C is an end view of the protective cover shown in FIG. 24A; 
     FIG. 24D is a cross-sectional view of the protective cover, taken along line  24 D— 24 D of FIG. 24C; 
     FIG. 25A is a perspective view of a protective cover applied to a light distributor, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention; 
     FIG. 25B is a cross-sectional view of the protective cover, taken along line  25 B— 25 B of FIG. 25A; 
     FIG. 25C is an end view of the protective cover shown in FIG. 25A; 
     FIG. 25D is a cross-sectional view of the protective cover, taken along line  25 D— 25 D of FIG. 25C; 
     FIG. 26A is a perspective view of a protective cover applied to a light distributor, in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention; 
     FIG. 26B is a cross-sectional view of the protective cover, taken along line  26 B— 26 B of FIG. 26A; 
     FIG. 26C is an end view of the protective cover shown in FIG. 26A; 
     FIG. 26D is a cross-sectional view of the protective cover, taken along line  26 D— 26 D of FIG. 26; 
     FIG. 27A is a cut-away view of a protective cover according to another embodiment of the present invention as applied to a light rod; 
     FIG. 27B is a cross-sectional view of the protective cover taken along line  27 B— 27 B of FIG. 27A; 
     FIG. 28A is a cut-away view of a protective cover as applied to a light rod with attached retractor blade; 
     FIG. 28B is a cross-sectional view of the protective cover taken along line  28 B— 28 B of FIG. 28A; 
     FIG. 29A is a cut-away view of a protective cover according to another embodiment of the present invention as applied to a rope light; 
     FIG. 29B is a cross-sectional view of the protective cover taken along line  29 B— 29 B of FIG. 29A; 
     FIG. 30A is a cut-away view of a protective cover according to another embodiment of the present invention as applied to a ring light; 
     FIG. 30B is a cross-sectional view of the protective cover taken along line  30 B— 30 B of FIG.  30 A; 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
     Referring now to the drawings wherein the showings are for the purposes of illustrating a preferred embodiment of the invention only and not for purposes of limiting same, FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate a suction/blower device  100  having an externally mounted light delivery system  2 . FIG. 4A shows a light delivery system  2  detached from suction/blower device  100 , while FIG. 4B shows light delivery system  2  attached to suction/blower device  100 . It should be appreciated that device  100  can take many forms including a surgical instrument or a conventional hand tool, as will be illustrated below. 
     Light delivery system  2  is generally comprised of a light emitter  10 , a light distributor  60 , and an attachment means  80 . Light emitter  10  focuses light of varying intensity in a predetermined direction or pattern. As a result, an associated viewing field is illuminated with a predetermined light characteristic. Light distributor  60  (e.g., optic light pipe) transmits light from a light source  90  to light emitter  10 . Attachment means  80  provides a support structure for coupling light delivery system  2  to device  100 . In this regard, attachment means  80  may include tabs, hooks or the like. 
     Light emitter  10  is comprised of a transparent or translucent light emitting material of any suitable type, including acrylic, polycarbonate, glass, epoxy, resins or the like. Emitter  10  may be substantially flat, suitably curved, may be formed of single or multiple layers, and may have different thicknesses and shapes. Moreover, emitter  10  may be flexible, or rigid, and may be made out of a variety of compounds. It should also be appreciated that emitter  10  may be hollow, filled with liquid, air, or be solid, and may have holes or ridges formed therein. 
     Means for directing light in desired directions and patterns, and providing various light intensity levels will now be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, which show a section B of light emitter  10 . Light extracting formations including deformities, disruptions, coatings, patterns or lenses, may be provided on one or more selected light surface areas  20  on one or more sides  21  or edges  23  of emitter  10 . As used herein, the term light extracting formation is to mean any change in the shape or geometry of the surface and/or coating or surface treatment that causes a portion of the light to be emitted. FIG. 3A schematically shows one such light surface area  20  on which a pattern of light extracting deformities or disruptions  22  is provided. The pattern of light extracting deformities or disruptions  22  shown in FIG. 3A includes a variable pattern which breaks up the light rays such that the internal angle of reflection of a portion of the light rays will be great enough to cause the light rays either to be emitted out of emitter  10  through the side or sides on which the light extracting deformities or disruptions  22  are provided or reflected back through the emitter  10  and emitted out the other side thereof. 
     Light extracting formations can be produced in a variety of manners, for example, by providing a painted pattern, an etched pattern, a machined pattern, a printed pattern, a hot stamped pattern, a molded pattern, a curved surface (i.e., lens), a diffraction grating, a prismatic surface or the like on selected light surface areas  20  of emitter  10 . An ink or printed pattern may be applied for example by pad printing, silk screening, ink jet, heat transfer film process or the like. The deformities or disruptions may also be printed on a sheet or film which is used to apply the deformities or disruptions to light surface area  20 . This sheet or film may become a permanent part of emitter  10  for example by attaching or otherwise positioning the sheet or film against one or both sides of the emitter light surface area similar to the sheet or film  24  shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 in order to produce a desired effect. 
     By varying the density, opaqueness or translucence, shape, depth, color, area, index of refraction, diffraction grating, or type of light extracting formations, the light output of emitter  10  can be controlled. The light extracting formations may be used to control the direction and/or percent of light emitted from any area of emitter  10 . For instance, less and/or smaller size deformities  22  may be placed on emitter  10  in areas where less light output is wanted. Conversely, a greater percentage of and/or larger deformities  22  may be placed on emitter  10  in areas where greater light output is desired. 
     Varying the percentages and/or size of deformities  22  in different areas of emitter  10  is necessary in order to provide a uniform light output distribution. For example, the amount of light traveling through light emitter  10  will ordinarily be greater in areas closer to the light source than in other areas further removed from the light source. A pattern of light extracting deformities  22  may be used to adjust the light variances within the emitter, for example, by providing a denser concentration of light extracting deformities with increased distance from the light source thereby resulting in a more uniform light output distribution from light emitter  10 . The deformities  22  may also be used to control the output ray angle distribution of the emitted light to suit a particular application. 
     It should be appreciated that other light extracting formations are suitably provided in addition to or in lieu of the patterns of light extracting deformities  22  shown in FIG.  3 A. As indicated above, other light extracting formations include lenses, prismatic surfaces, depressions or raised surfaces of various shapes using more complex shapes in a mold pattern may be molded, etched, stamped, thermoformed, hot stamped or the like into or on one or more surface areas (e.g., sides and edges) of the light emitter. Lenses (e-g., pillow lenses) can be used to provide diffuse light (by spreading light rays) and directional light (by focusing light rays). FIGS. 3B and 3C show areas  26  on which prismatic surfaces  28  or depressions  30  are formed in the emitter surface area, whereas FIG. 3D shows prismatic or other reflective or refractive surfaces  32  formed on the exterior of the emitter surface area. The prismatic surfaces, depressions or raised surfaces will cause a portion of the light rays contacted thereby to be emitted from the light emitter. Also, the angles of the prisms, depressions or other surfaces may be varied to direct the light in different directions to produce a desired light output distribution or effect, or to project a spot image or pattern of light to a specific area or region. Moreover, the reflective or refractive surfaces may have shapes or a pattern with no specific angles to reduce moire or other interference effects. In addition, the light rays emitted from the emitter may provide generally shadowless or homogenous light. In this regard, the emitter may simultaneously illuminate a 3-D object from a plurality of sides. 
     As best seen in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 2, a back reflector  34  (including trans reflectors) may be attached or positioned against one side of the panel member  14  of FIG. 1 using a suitable adhesive  36  or other method in order to improve light output efficiency of light emitter  10  by reflecting the light emitted from that side back through the panel for emission through the opposite side. Additionally, a pattern of light extracting deformities  22 ,  28 ,  30  and/or  32  may be provided on one or both sides of the light emitter in order to change the path of the light so that the internal critical angle is exceeded and a portion of the light is emitted from one or both sides of the light emitter. Moreover, a transparent film, sheet or plate member  24  may be attached or positioned against the side or sides of the emitter from which light is emitted using a suitable adhesive  36  or other method in order to produce a desired effect. 
     Member  24  may be used to further improve the uniformity of the light output distribution. For example, member  24  may be a colored film, a diffuser, or a label or display, a portion of which may be a transparent overlay that may be colored and/or have text or an image thereon. 
     If adhesive  36  is used to adhere the back reflector  34  and/or film  24  to the emitter, the adhesive is preferably applied only along the side edges of the emitter, and if desired the end edge opposite light transition areas, but not over the entire surface area or areas of the emitter because of the difficulty in consistently applying a uniform coating of adhesive to the panel. Also, the adhesive changes the internal critical angle of the light in a less controllable manner than the air gaps  40  (see FIG. 2) which are formed between the respective surfaces of the emitter and the back reflector  34  and/or member  24  when only adhered along the peripheral edges. Additionally, longer emitters are achievable when air gaps  40  are used. If adhesive were to be used over the entire surface, the pattern of deformities could be adjusted to account for the additional attenuation in the light caused by the adhesive. 
     The light emitter disclosed herein may be used for a great many different applications including for example LCD back lighting or lighting in general, decorative and display lighting, automotive lighting, dental lighting, phototherapy, photodynamic therapy, or other medical lighting, membrane switch lighting, and sporting goods and apparel lighting or the like. Also the emitter may be formed such that the deformities are transparent without a back reflector. This allows the emitter to be used such that the application is viewed through the transparent emitter. 
     The light that is transmitted by light distributor  60  to light emitter  10  may be emitted along the entire length of light emitter  10  or from one or more light output areas along the length of the panel as desired to produce a desired light output distribution to fit a particular application. 
     Light distributor  60  is a formed light conduit adapted to propagate light therethrough via internal reflection. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B, light distributor  60  takes the form of an optic light pipe. Light distributor  60  includes an interface  64  and a connecting member  62 . Interface  64  interfaces light distributor  60  with light emitter  10 . Connecting member  62  facilitates connection of light distributor  60  with light source  90  (described below). It should be appreciated that light distributor  60 , light emitter  64 , and light source  90  may be formed as one unitary member without interface  64  and connecting member  62 . 
     Light source  90  may take many forms as will be discussed below. In the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, light source  90  is generally comprised of a generator  92  and a cable  94 . Generator  92  may be, for example, a 300 Watt Xenon light source. Cable  94  includes a connecting member  96 , which mates with connecting member  62  of light distributor  60 . 
     It should be appreciated that light source  90  illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B is shown solely for the purpose of illustrating an embodiment of the present invention. In this respect, light source  90  may also be of other suitable types including, an arc lamp, an incandescent bulb (which also may be colored, filtered or painted), a lens end bulb, a line light, a halogen lamp, a light emitting diode (LED), a chip from an LED, a neon bulb, a fluorescent tube, a laser or laser diode, or any other suitable light source. For example, light source  90  may take the form of any of the types disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,897,771 and 5,005,108, assigned to the same assignee as the present application, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. Additionally, the light source may be a multiple colored LED, or a combination of multiple colored radiation sources in order to provide a desired colored or white light output distribution. For example, a plurality of colored lights such as LEDs of different colors (red, blue, green) or a single LED emitting a selected spectrum may be employed to create white light or any other colored light output distribution by varying the intensities of each individual colored light. 
     Attachment means  80  is suitably molded as an integral part of light distributor  60  (FIG.  4 A), attaches to both the light distributor and the associated device (FIG.  4 C), or forms a part of device  100 . In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, attachment means  80  is fixed to light distributor  60 , wherein gripping means  84  are provided for attaching light delivery system  2  to device  100 . Attachment means  80  allows light delivery system  2  to be easily and conveniently attached to and detached from suction/blower device  100 . As a result, light delivery system  2  is easily replaced where sterilization is required. 
     In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4C, one form of attachment means  80  includes engagement means  82  and  84  for fixing light delivery system  2  to a device. In this respect, engagement means  82  are engageable with light distributor  60 , while engagement means  84  are engageable with a portion of the device. It should be appreciated that engagement means  82  and/or engagement means  84  are suitably integral with light distributor  60  and the device, respectively. However, in the case where convenient replacement of light delivery system  2  is desired (e.g., when sterilization is required) engagement means  82  and/or engagement means  84  will preferably provide for convenient removal of light delivery system  2  from the device. For instance, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, engagement means  84  takes the form of a clamp, which allows for simple attachment and detachment of light delivery system  2  from device  100 . It should be appreciated that engagement means  82  and  84  may take the form of other suitable fastening members including cables, snaps, clips, tabs, adhesives, and the like. 
     Device  100  includes a tube  70  having a tip portion  76 . Tip portion  76  is comprised of a plurality of openings  78 , which are in communication with tube  70 . Light emitter  10  is suitably dimensioned to receive tip portion  76 , when light delivery system  2  is attached to device  100  (FIG.  4 B). It should be noted that light emitter  10  is suitably formed to provide diffuse light in directions transverse to the longitudinal axis of device tip portion  76 , and to provide direct light in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of tip portion  76 . As indicated above, the direct light provides maximum illumination on the material being suctioned or blown. At the same time, the diffuse light provides sufficient, but not over bright, illumination of the area surrounding the material being suctioned or blown. As a result, the user&#39;s vision of the material being suctioned or blown is not impaired. 
     Other embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to FIGS.  5 — 22 , which illustrate a variety of different surgical instruments and hand tools which are used in conjunction with the light delivery system of the present invention. 
     Referring now to FIG. 5A, there is shown a suction/blower device  101 A. Device  101 A is a surgical instrument typically used to remove material (e.g., fluid or tissue) from a surgeons field of view. In this respect, device  101 A suctions or blows the obscuring material. Device  101 A is generally comprised of a light emitter  110 , a light distributor  160  and air passageway(s)  170 . Light distributor  160  includes a connecting member  162  dimensioned to receive a mating connecting member  196  from cable  194 . Cable  194  is connected to a light source (not shown). 
     It is important to note that light distributor  160  not only carries light to light emitter  110 , but also provides a support structure for suction/blower device  101 A. In this respect, light distributor  160  includes a light distribution member  161 , which is constructed of a rigid material and formed into a suitable shape for a user to conveniently hold device  101 A. Light distribution member  161  transmits light and defines passageway(s)  170 . Passageway(s)  170  are generally tubular hollow channels formed along the length of light distributor  160 . FIGS. 5B and 5C illustrate two different embodiments for light distributor  160 . Passageway(s)  170  provides a conduit for air, or other gas or fluid. Light distributor  160  also includes an outer layer  163 . Outer layer  163  may take the form of a heat-shrinked film, coating or tubing. Outer layer  163  provides a protective layer for light distribution member  161 . Similarly, an inner layer (not shown) may line the inner surface of light distribution member  161 . The outer and inner layers protect the internal light propagation from impairment (e.g., blood or other materials that can cause light loss). It should be appreciated that light distributor  160  may be constructed of a plurality of walls of varying thickness. The walls may take the form of a film, coating or tubing. Moreover, the film, coating or tubing may extend along the full length of light distributor  160 , or only along a portion thereof. 
     A connector  172  is provided to receive a mating connector from a hose  174 . Hose  174  is connected to a vacuum generating means (not shown), where device  101 A is used for suction, or is connected to a blower means (not shown), where device  101 A is used for blowing. Light emitter  110  is located at the tip end of device  101 A, and surrounds passageway(s)  170 . Light emitter  110  is suitably formed to provide diffuse light in directions transverse to the longitudinal axis of device  101 A, and to provide direct light in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of device  101  A. In this way, the direct light provides maximum illumination on the material being suctioned or blown. At the same time, the diffuse light provides sufficient, but not over bright, illumination of the area surrounding the material being suctioned or blown. As a result, the user&#39;s vision of the material being suctioned or blown is not impaired. 
     It should be appreciated that light distributor  160  and light emitter  110  form an integral part of the suction/blowing device  101 A, and thus eliminate the need for an external lighting device mounted to the suction/blowing device, a lighting device mounted elsewhere in an operating room, or a hand held lighting device. 
     FIG. 6 illustrates an alternative embodiment of suction/blower device  101 A. Suction/blower device  101 B is similar in many respects to suction/blower device  101 A; however, light emitter  110  and light distributor  160  are disposable in this embodiment. In this respect, suction/blower  101 B is generally comprised of a light emitter  110 , a rigid body member  150 , a light distributor  160  having a fixed portion  160 A and a detachable portion  160 B, and a tube  170 . Body member  150  is constructed of a rigid material (e.g., plastic) and formed into a suitable shape for a user to conveniently hold device  101 B. Body member  150  surrounds fixed portion  160 A of light distributor  160 . Fixed portion  160 A includes a connecting member  162 . Fixed portion  160 A and detachable portion  160 B are connected at interface  166 . A hollow channel is formed along the length of portions  160 A and  160 B to provide tube  170 . Light emitter  110  is optionally detachable from light distributor  160  at interface  166 . 
     It should be appreciated that suction/blower device  101 B has the advantage of having a detachable light emitter  110  and light distributor  160 . This allows for convenient replacement of the portions of device  101 B which may require sterilization. As a result, only an inexpensive and small portion of device  101 B is disposed, thus saving the expense of replacing the entire suction/blower device  101 B. 
     FIG. 7 illustrates another suction/blower device  102 . Device  102  is generally comprised of a light emitter  310 , a light distributor  360  and a tube  370 . Light distributor  360  has a connecting member  362  dimensioned to receive a mating connecting member  396  from cable  394 . Cable  394  is connected to a light source (not shown). It is important to note that light distributor  360  not only carries light to light emitter  310 , but also provides a support structure for suction/blower device  102 . In this respect, light distributor  360  is constructed of a rigid material and formed into a suitable shape for a user to conveniently hold device  102 . In addition, a hollow channel is formed along the length of light distributor  360  to provide tube  370 . Light distributor  360  is preferably formed of an inexpensive plastic material. Tube  370  includes a connector  372 , dimensioned to receive a mating connector from a hose  374 . Hose  374  is connected to a vacuum generating means (not shown), where device  102  is used for suction, or is connected to a blower means (not shown), where device  102  is used for blowing. Light emitter  310  is located at tip  368  of light distributor  360 , and surrounds tube  370 . Light emitter  310  is suitably formed to provide diffuse light in directions transverse to the longitudinal axis of tip  368 , and to provide direct light in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of tip  368 . In this way, the direct light provides maximum illumination on the material being suctioned or blown. At the same time, the diffuse light provides sufficient, but not over bright, illumination of the area surrounding the material being suctioned or blown. As a result, the user&#39;s vision of the material being suctioned or blown is not impaired. 
     It should be appreciated that light distributor  360  is easily and conveniently attached to and detached from cable  394  and hose  374 . As a result, light delivery system  202  is easily replaced where sterilization is required. 
     FIG. 8 illustrates an electrosurgical pencil device  103 . Electrosurgical pencil device  103  is used to destroy tissue by burning the tissue with a cauterizing tip. Device  103  is generally comprised of a light emitter  410 , a light distributor  460  and a cauterizing tip  470 . Light distributor  460  has a connecting member  462  dimensioned to receive a mating connecting member  496  from a cable  494 . Cable  494  is connected to a light source (not shown). It is important to note that light distributor  460  not only conducts light to light emitter  410 , but also provides a support structure for device  103 . In this respect, light distributor  460  is constructed of a rigid material and formed into a suitable shape for a user to conveniently hold device  103 . In addition, a channel is formed along the length of light distributor  460  to provide a passageway for electrical conductor  474 . Electrical conductor  474  connects to cauterizing tip  470 , to provide power thereto. Light emitter  410  is suitably formed to provide diffuse light in directions transverse to the longitudinal axis of tip  470 , and to provide direct light in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of tip  470 . In this way, the direct light provides maximum illumination on the material being cauterized. At the same time, the diffuse light provides sufficient, but not over bright, illumination of the area surrounding the material being cauterized. As a result, the user&#39;s vision of the material being cauterized is not impaired. 
     Referring now to FIG. 9A, there is shown a transillumination tray  104  for illuminating a bodily structure (e.g., vein, artery, finger, or small organ). Tray  104  is generally comprised of a light distributor  560  and a light emitter  510 . Light distributor  560  includes a connecting member  562  dimensioned to receive a mating connecting member  596  from a cable  594 . Cable  594  is connected to a light source (not shown). It is important to note that light distributor  560  not only conducts light to light emitter  510 , but also provides a support base for tray  104 . In this respect, light distributor  560  is constructed of a rigid material and formed into a suitable shape for receiving a generally U-shaped light emitter  510 . Light emitter  510  is shaped to receive a bodily structure, and thoroughly illuminate it. In this respect, light is emitted in all directions from the surface of light emitter  510 . FIG. 9B illustrates a cross-sectional view of tray  104  with a vein/artery  570  located on tray  104  for examination. Light emitter  510  illuminates an obstruction  572  in vein/artery  570 . 
     FIGS. 10A and 10B show a stabilizer device  105  including the light delivery system of the present invention. Stabilizer device  105  is generally comprised of light emitters  610 A,  610 B and  610 C, and a light distributor  660 . Light distributor  660  includes a central portion  670 , arm portions  672 , and connecting member  662 . Connecting member  662  is dimensioned to receive a mating connecting member  696  from a cable  694  (such as a light pipe). Cable  694  is connected to a light source (not shown). It is important to note that light distributor  660  not only carries light to light emitters  610 A,  610 B and  610 C, but also provides a support structure for stabilizer device  105 . In this respect, light distributor  660  is constructed of a rigid material and formed into a suitable shape for a user to conveniently hold device  102 . Light emitters  610 A,  610 B and  610 C provide different lighting conditions. In this respect, light emitter  610 A may includes a lens  611  for providing direct focused light on incision work area I. Light emitter  610 B is formed along the periphery defined by central portion  670  and arm portions  672 . Light emitter  610 B provides indirect diffuse light for incision work area I. Light emitter  610 C is formed along the lower edge (i.e., bottom) of central portion  670  and arm portions  672 . Light emitter  610 C may provide indirect diffuse light or glowing light for transillumination of a bodily structure. 
     It should be appreciated that in an alternative embodiment, stabilizer device  105  may be suitably arranged to attach (e.g., using a clip or other attachment means) to a metal stabilizer having the same general shape as stabilizer device  105 . In this regard, the strength of the material forming stabilizer device  105  may not sufficient for a particular application. Accordingly, the metal stabilizer provides the desired strength. 
     Referring now to FIG. 11, there is shown retractor devices  106 A,  106 B and  106 C for retracting body structure T (which may include, bodily tissue, bone, organs or the like). Retractor device  106 A is comprised of a retractor member  770 A and a light delivery system  702 A. Retractor member  770 A includes a horizontal portion  772 , a vertical portion  774 , and a support member  776 . Support member  776  is arranged between horizontal portion  772  and a rigid mount (not shown). Light delivery system  702 A is mounted to the front face of vertical portion  774 , and includes a light distributor  760 A and a light emitter  710 A. Light distributor  760 A bends to follow the general shape of retractor member  770 A, and receives light from a light source (not shown). A suitable adhesive may be used to attach light delivery system  702 A to vertical portion  774 . Light emitter  710 A provides diffuse or directional light into the work area. 
     Retractor device  106 B is generally comprised of a retractor member  770 B and a light delivery system  702 B. Retractor member  770 B is a rake retractor having a plurality of prongs. Light delivery system  702 B includes an attachment member  780 B, light distributor  760 B, and light emitter  710 B. Attachment member  780 B has engagement means  784 B for attaching light delivery system  702 B to retractor member  770 B. Light distributor  760 B receives light from a light source (not shown). Light emitter  710 B includes a top portion  711 B and a side portion  713 B. Light emitter  710 B provides diffuse or directional light into the work area. 
     Retractor device  106 C is a rake retractor formed of a translucent material (e.g., plastic). Retractor device  106 C includes light distributor  760 B and light emitter  710 C. The light distributor  760 B and light emitter  710 C form the structural member of retractor device  106 C. 
     Referring now to FIG. 12, there is shown an illuminated forceps  107  having an integrated light delivery system. Forceps  107  is generally comprised of light distributors  860  and light emitters  810 . Each light distributor  860  includes a pair of arms  870  and a pair of connecting members  862 . Connecting members  862  connect to a mating connecting members  896  of light source cables  894 . Cables  894  connect to a light source (not shown). Light emitters  810  forms the gripping surfaces of arms  870 , and provide focused or diffuse light. It should be appreciated that light emitters  810  may provide light for inspection, as well as transillumination. In the case of inspection the light is used to inspect a work area before proceeding with a further operation. With regard to transillumination, the light may be use to examine a bodily structure. For instance, a vein may be transilluminated to identify a blood clot before clamping and cutting. 
     FIGS. 13 and 14 show a multi-purpose lighting device  108 . Device  108  is generally comprised of a light delivery portion  902  and a handle portion  970 . Light delivery portion  902  includes a light distributor  960  and a light emitter  910 A. Handle portion  970  includes a central housing  972 , a connecting member  974  and an endcap  976 . As shown in FIG. 14, handle portion  970  houses a power source  950  (e.g., batteries), a light source  952  (e.g., light bulb), a reflector  954 , a light filter  956  and a switch means  974 . Reflector  954  reflects the light generated by light source  952 . Light filter  956  filters the reflected light before it exits through the open end of connecting member  974 . Light source  952  is turned on and off by switch means  978 . It should be noted that endcap  976  may include a contact member for completing a circuit for powering light source  952 . 
     It should be appreciated that connecting member  974  is dimensioned to receive a light distributor  960 , as best seen in FIG.  14 . Accordingly, a variety of different types of light delivery portions  902  can be used in combination with handle portion  970 , wherein handle portion  970  provides a light source. For instance, light delivery portion  902  may include a light emitter  910 A in the form of an illuminated ball (FIG.  13 ). The surface of the ball may be covered with cotton to form an illuminated cotton swab suitable for obtaining a culture. Alternatively, light delivery portion  970  may include a light emitter  901 B in the form of an end light (FIG.  14 ), a light emitter  910 C in the form of an illuminated tongue depressor (FIG.  14 ), and a light emitter  910 D in the form of a transillumination tray (FIG.  14 ), similar to tray  104 , described above. Through the use of a variety of attachable light delivery portions  902 , device  108  serves a wide range of functions. The light delivery portion or a sleeve fitting over the light delivery portion may be disposable for convenient reuse. 
     It should be appreciated that the light delivery portions shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 are shown solely for the purpose of illustrating a preferred embodiment of the present invention. In this respect, other types of light delivery portions, serving functions similar to those of the illustrated embodiments, are also contemplated. Moreover, it should be appreciated that the portable light source housed in the handle portion may be suitably replaced by a remote light source (e.g., see FIG.  4 A), with a light pipe for conveying the light therefrom. 
     Referring now to FIG. 15A, there is shown a lighting device  109 , which functions as a flexible and formable “trouble light.” Lighting device  109  is generally comprised of a light delivery portion  1002  and a handle portion  1070 . Light delivery portion  1002  includes a light distributor  1060  and a light emitter  1010 . Light distributor  1060  includes a connecting member  1062  for connecting light distributor  1060  to handle portion  1070 . It should be noted that in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, light distributor  1060  is flexible. As seen in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 15B, light distributor  1060  is comprised of a light pipe member  1063 , a translucent or colored outer sheath  1061  and a formable wire  1065 . Formable wire  1065  allows light distributor  1060  to be bent or positioned in a suitable manner. Light emitter  1010  is detachable from light distributor  1060  to provide a variety of multi-purpose light emitters. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 15A, light emitter  1010  takes the form of a glowing tip, which is rotatable to alter the focus, size or light intensity of lighted area  1004 . 
     Handle portion  1070  is similar to handle portion  970 , described above. In this regard, handle portion  1070  includes a central housing  1072 , connecting member  1074 , endcap  1076 , and a switch means  1078 . Handle portion  1070  houses a light source and a power source. It should be appreciated that handle portion  1070  is suitably replaced by a light pipe  1090  of conventional light source. Light pipe  1090  includes a cable  1094  and a mating connecting member  1096 , which mates with connecting member  1062 . 
     Device  109  may optionally include a rigid support member  1050  to keep light distributor  1060  from changing positions. Support member  1050  includes an arm  1052  and clamp  1054 . Clamp  1054  engages with light distributor  1060 . 
     Referring now to FIG. 16A, there is shown a formable “rope” lighting device  1101 , which is similar to the lighting device shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B. Lighting device  1101  is generally comprised of a light distributor  1160  and light emitters  1110 . Light distributor  1160  includes a connecting member  1162  for connecting light distributor  1160  to a light source (not shown). It should be noted that in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, light distributor  1160  is formed of a flexible optic light guide. As seen in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 16B, a protective outer sleeve  1170  covers light distributor  1160 . Outer sleeve  1170  is preferably formed of a translucent or transparent material. An optional formable wire  1150  extends between light distributor  1160  and outer sleeve  1170 , to permit lighting device  1101  to hold its shape once bent to a suitable position. Light emitters  1110  provide diffuse light D along length L, in addition to a focused beam of light B at the free end of lighting device  1101 . 
     It should be noted that at optional lens may be provided at the free end of lighting device  1101  to focus light B from light emitters  1110  in a desired pattern. 
     Referring now to FIG. 17, there is shown a trans-illuminating pickup or forceps  1102  having an attachable light delivery system  1200 . Arrows A illustrate the direction in which forceps  1102  is movable. Light delivery system  1200  is generally comprised of a light distributor  1260  and a light emitter  1210 . Light distributor  1260  includes connecting members (not shown) for connecting light delivery system  1200  to a light source (not shown). Light distributor  1260  preferably takes the form of an optic light guide cable, which may be either rigid or flexible. Attachment members  1280  connect light distributor  1260  to forceps  1102 . In a preferred embodiment of the present invention attachment members take the form of clips. An opening  1270  is formed at the tip end of one arm of forceps  1102 . Opening  1270  is dimensioned to receive light emitter  1210 . Light emitter  1210  provide light along length L. It should be appreciated that a second opening  1270  may be formed in the second arm of forceps  1102 , in order to receive a second light emitter. 
     Referring now to FIG. 18, there is shown a trans-illuminating retractor  1103  having an attachable light delivery system  1300 . Arrows A illustrate the directions in which retractor  1103  is movable. Light delivery system  1300  is generally comprised of a light distributor  1360  and a light emitter  1310 . Light distributor  1360  includes connecting members (not shown) for connecting light delivery system  1300  to a light source (not shown). Light distributor  1360  preferably takes the form of an optic light guide cable, which may be either rigid or flexible. A connector  1364  is provided to connect and interface light distributor  1360  with light emitter  1310 . Attachment members  1380  and  1388  connect light delivery system  1300  to forceps  1103 . In a preferred embodiment of the present invention attachment member  1380  takes the form of a clip. Light emitter  1310  extends along the inner surface of the retractor arms. 
     FIGS. 19A and 19B illustrate a spring-formed “grope” lighting device  1104 . lighting device  1104  is generally comprised of a light distributor  1460  and a light emitter  1410 . Light distributor  1460  interfaces with a self-contained miniature light source unit  1490 . Light source unit  1490  includes a light source (e.g., LED, incandescent light, laser diodes or the like) and a power source (e.g., a button battery cell or the like). The miniaturization and portability of light source unit  1490  allows lighting device  1104  to be arrangeable within a bodily structure, such as a body cavity. Alternatively, a remote light source may substitute for self-contained light source unit  1490 . It should be noted that in a preferred embodiment of the present invention light distributor  1460  is formed of a flexible optic light guide. As best seen in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 19B, a protective outer sleeve  1470  covers light distributor  1460 . Outer sleeve  1470  is preferably formed of a translucent or transparent material. A spring  1450  extends between light distributor  1460  and outer sleeve  1470 . Spring  1450  may be formed of a material which allows it to return to its original shape after being compressed. 
     Accordingly, spring  1450  has a “memory,” which allows for advantageous use of lighting device  1104 , as will be described below. Light emitter  1410  provides diffuse light D along length L. 
     It should be appreciated that while lighting device  1104  is shown with a generally round cross-sectional area, lighting device  1104  may have a cross-sectional area of other shapes, including a square and octagon. 
     Lighting device  1104  finds particularly advantageous use as a means for holding a cavity open during a surgical procedure. In this regard, lighting device  1104  is compressed (i.e., squeezed) and inserted through an opening into a cavity (e.g., a heart chamber). When the compressive force is removed from lighting device  1104  the “memory” of spring  1450  causes the device to return to its original shape (i.e., spring open). As a result, the cavity opening is conveniently held open during further surgical procedures. It should be appreciated that spring  1450  may be suitably shaped to fit a particular application. 
     FIGS. 20A and 20B illustrates a smoke evacuation tube  1105  having an integrated light delivery system  1500 . Light delivery system  1500  is generally comprised of a light distributor  1560  and light emitters  1510 . Light distributor  1560  includes a connecting member  1562  for connecting light distributor  1560  to a light source (not shown). Light distributor  1560  is preferably formed of a flexible optic light guide. As best seen in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 20B, a protective outer sleeve  1574  covers light distributor  1560 . Outer sleeve  1574  is preferably formed of a translucent or transparent material. An optional formable wire  1550  extends between light distributor  1560  and outer sleeve  1574 , to allow smoke evacuation tube  1105  to hold its shape once arranged in a desired position. Light emitters  1510  provide diffuse light D along length L, addition to a beam of light B. It should be noted that an optional lens may be provided at the free end of smoke evacuation tube  1105  to focus light B from light emitter  1510  in a desired pattern. 
     A hollow tube  1570  forms an evacuation chamber  1572  for removing smoke. As best seen in FIG. 20B, hollow tube  1570  surrounds and connects to outer sleeve  1574 . Hollow tube  1570  is preferably formed of a translucent or transparent material. It should be appreciated that in an alternative embodiment, sleeve  1574  and tube  1570  are suitably arranged adjacent to each other. 
     FIGS. 21A and 21B illustrates a suction tube  1106  having an integrated light delivery system  1600 . Light delivery system  1600  is generally comprised of a light distributor  1660  and light emitters  1610 . Light distributor  1660  includes a connecting member  1662  for connecting light distributor  1660  to a light source (not shown). Light distributor  1660  is preferably formed of a flexible optic light guide. As best seen in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 21B, a protective outer sleeve  1674  covers light distributor  1660 . Outer sleeve  1674  is preferably formed of a translucent or transparent material. An optional formable wire  1650  extends between light distributor  1660  and outer sleeve  1674 , to permit suction tube  1106  to hold its shape once arranged in a desired position. Light emitters  1610  provide diffuse light D along length L, in addition to a focused beam of light B. It should be noted that an optional lens may be provided at the free end of suction tube  1106  to focus light B from light emitter  1610  in a desired pattern. A hollow tube  1670  forms a suction chamber  1672  for suctioning smoke and other materials. A nozzle  1676  is formed at the free end of hollow tube  1670 . As best seen in FIG. 21B, hollow tube  1670  is arranged adjacent and connected to outer sleeve  1674 . Hollow tube  1670  is preferably formed of a translucent or transparent material. 
     FIGS. 22A and 22B illustrates a suction tube  1107  having an attachable light delivery system  1700 . Light delivery system  1700  is generally comprised of a light distributor  1760  and light emitters  1710 . Light distributor  1760  includes a connecting member  1762  for connecting light distributor  1660  to a light source (not shown). Light distributor  1760  is preferably formed of a flexible optic light guide. As best seen in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 22B, a protective outer sleeve  1774  covers light distributor  1760 . Outer sleeve  1774  is preferably formed of a translucent or transparent material. An optional formable wire  1750  extends between light distributor  1760  and outer sleeve  1774 , to permit suction tube  1107  to hold its shape once arranged in a desired position. Light emitters  1710  provide diffuse light D along length L, in addition to a beam of light B. It should be noted that an optional lens may be provided at the free end of suction tube  1107  to focus light B from light emitter  1710  in a desired pattern. 
     A hollow tube  1770  forms a suction chamber  1772  for suctioning smoke and other materials. A nozzle  1776  is formed at the free end of hollow tube  1670 . Hollow tube  1770  is preferably formed of a translucent or transparent material. Attachment members  1780  connect hollow tube  1770  to outer sleeve  1774 . In a preferred embodiment, attachment member  1780  takes the form of a clip having a pair of gripping members respectively dimensioned to receive hollow tube  1770  and sleeve  1774  (FIG.  22 A). However, it should be appreciated that attachment member  1780  may take other suitable forms. 
     Referring now to FIG. 23A, there is shown a ring-shaped “rope” lighting device  1108 . Lighting device  1108  is generally comprised of a light distributor  1860  and light emitters  1810 . Light distributor  1860  includes a connecting member  1862  for connecting light distributor  1860  to a light source (not shown). It should be noted that in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, light distributor  1860  is formed of a flexible optic light guide. As seen in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 23B, a protective outer sleeve  1870  covers light distributor  1860 . Outer sleeve  1870  is preferably formed of a translucent or transparent material. A custom-formed spring temper wire  1850  extends between light distributor  1860  and outer sleeve  1870 . Wire  1850  may be compressed and will return to its original shape. Light emitter  1810  provides light along length L. A fastener  1880  is provided to hold lighting device  1108  in a desired shape. Fastener  1880  may take many suitable forms, including a mechanical fastener or adhesive (e.g., glue). A secondary wire  1852  is provided along a portion of light distributor  1860 . Wire  1852  may be malleable or spring temper. Tabs  1882  hold lighting device  1108  in a desired location, and can also be used to retract tissue during a surgical procedure. In a preferred embodiment, tabs  1882  take the form of adhesive tape. 
     As indicated above, a protective outer sleeve may cover a light transmitting member (e.g., light distributor or light emitter). The purpose of this protective cover is to prevent (1) contaminants (such as blood, body tissue, dirt, oil, grease, paint, etc.); (2) other components (such as adhesive pads, labels, hooks, etc.); or (3) any other material or structure than can cause attenuation, from directly contacting the light transmitting member and preventing proper operation thereof. In this regard, the protective cover allows light to pass through the light transmitting member with minimal disturbance to internal reflection of light travelling therethrough. When contaminants or components are in direct contact with the light transmitting member, they interfere with the proper internal reflection within the light transmitting member. In particular, the angle of reflection of light travelling through the light transmitting member is changed. In the case where there is no air gap, or virtually no air gap between the contaminant/components and the surface of the light transmitting member, optical energy of the light propagating through the light transmitting member (e.g., originating from a 300 Watt light source) is absorbed by the contaminant. As a result, the temperature of the contaminant will increase, possibly to an undesirable level. 
     It should be noted that the term “cover” as used herein refers to materials providing a film, skin, boundary layer, coating, and the like. Specific examples of suitable materials are discussed below. 
     Referring now to FIGS.  24 A— 24 D, there is shown a first exemplary embodiment of the protective cover. Protective cover  2400  surrounds a light transmitting member  2410  (e.g., a flexible or rigid light pipe). As best seen in FIGS.  24 B— 24 D, an air interface or gap  2408  is maintained between light transmitting member  2410  and cover  2400 . It should be appreciated that the air interface or gap may be microscopic (e.g., a couple of microns) to avoid interference with internal reflection. In this regard, reflections occur at the interface of light transmitting member  2410  and air gap  2408 . Cover  2400  may be applied to light transmitting member  2410  in variety of suitable ways, including but not limited to molding, vacuum forming, heat shrinking, and the like. 
     FIGS.  25 A— 25 D illustrate another embodiment of the protective cover. Protective cover  2500  is generally comprised of a first cover portion  2500 A and a second cover portion  2500 B, which surround light transmitting member  2510 . As best seen in FIGS.  25 B— 25 D, an air interface or gap  2508  is maintained between light transmitting member  2510  and cover  2500 . Cover portions  2500 A and  2500 B are bonded together at interface  2502  to form a unitary protective cover  2500  (FIG.  25 C). For instance, glue, a heat seal, or the like are suitable for bonding the cover portions  2500 A,  2500 B. 
     In the embodiment shown in FIGS.  26 A— 26 D, the cover takes the form of a coating  2600  that is applied to the surface of light transmitting member  2610 . Coating  2600  provides an appropriate index of refraction to maintain a desired internal reflection. The coating  2600  may take many suitable forms, including but not limited to optical coatings with an appropriate index of refraction, and Teflon (R). It will be appreciated that in this embodiment there is no air interface or gap. 
     The protective cover may be comprised of materials taking a number of suitable forms, including but not limited to glass, plastic, shrink film (e.g., Reynolon (R) shrink film packaging), thin-wall PVC heat shrinkable tubing, metal (e.g., aluminum), cardboard, and the like. The wall thickness of the shrinkable tubing is typically in the range of 0.0002 inches to 0.012 inches. Suitable shrinkable tubing is available from Advance Polymers, Incorporated and RJI International Corporation. Where a heat shrinkable tubing is used, the tubing is fit over the light transmitting member and heat is applied, to shrink the tubing around the light transmitting member. 
     It should be appreciated that the protective cover may be formed of a translucent, transparent, opaque, or reflective material, or combinations thereof. Thus, a lighting device may include a protective cover that allows some portions of the light transmitting member to emit light or “glow,” while preventing other portions of the light transmitting member from emitting light or “glowing.” For example, the protective cover may be suitably configured with an opaque section corresponding to one side of a light transmitting member, and with a transparent or translucent section corresponding to the other side of the light transmitting member. In addition, a reflective material may be used as a back-deflector to reflect light as it is traveling through the light transmitting member. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that the protective cover may be formed of a material which diffuses light passing therethrough. 
     The protective covering may be formed of a material that is generally rigid or generally flexible. Some materials may have a “memory,” so that when the protective cover is manually bent and then released, it does not retain its deformed state. Other materials may not have a “memory,” and thus will not spring back to their original shape after deformation. It should be noted that materials lacking a memory can be effectively used as a means for positioning and supporting a generally flexible light transmitting member. 
     Referring now to FIGS. 27A and 27B, there is shown a protective cover  2700  according to another embodiment of the present invention, as applied to a light transmitting member  2710 . Protective cover  2700  has a generally tubular shape, and includes an outer surface  2702  and an inner surface  2704 . In addition, protective cover  2700  has a closed end  2705  and an open end  2706 , with a central body portion  2707  extending therebetween. Closed end  2705  covers the distal end of light transmitting member  2710 . Open end  2706  is dimensioned to receive a connector member  2720 , which is described below. An air interface or gap  2708  is maintained between protective cover  2700  and light transmitting member  2710 . 
     In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 27A and 27B, light transmitting member  2710  takes the form of a “light rod” which emits light at the distal end of the light transmitting member. In this respect, light emitters form a part of the light transmitting member  2710 , along a portion of the distal end, to emit light in a manner appropriate for a particular application. 
     Connector member  2720  is attached to light transmitting member  2710 , and provides an interface  2722  for attaching protective cover  2700 . Interface  2722  includes a generally cylindrical engagement wall  2724  and a circular flange  2726 . In a preferred embodiment, the outer surface of engagement wall  2724  mates with inner surface  2704  of protective cover  2700 . For instance, mating threads may be formed on the outer surface of engagement wall  2724  and inner surface  2704 . Alternatively, the outer diameter of engagement wall  2724  may be dimensioned to press-fit within protective cover  2700 . Circular flange  2726  acts as a stop to prevent over-tightening of connector member  2720  withing protective cover  2700 . In this respect, the front surface of circular flange  2726  engages with the front surface of open end  2706  of protective cover  2700 . 
     Protective cover  2700 , in cooperation with connector member  2720 , seal a portion of light transmitting member  2710  from contact with contaminants. In a preferred embodiment the portion of the light transmitting member  2710  protected from contaminants will include a portion that emits light on a work area, and is the portion most likely to make contact with contaminants. Protective cover  2700 , in combination with connector member  2720 , encloses a portion of light transmitting member  2710 . 
     FIGS. 28A and 28B show a protective cover  2800  that surrounds a light transmitting member  2810 , and takes the same form as protective cover  2700 . In this regard, protective cover  2800  has a generally tubular shape, and includes an outer surface  2802  and an inner surface  2804 . In addition, protective cover  2800  has a closed end  2805  and an open end  2806 , with a central body portion  2807  extending therebetween. Closed end  2805  covers the distal end of light transmitting member  2810 . Open end  2806  is dimensioned to receive a connector member  2820 , which is described below. An air interface or gap  2808  is maintained between protective cover  2800  and light transmitting member  2810 . 
     In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 28A and 28B, light transmitting member  2810  also takes the form of a “light rod” which emits light at a distal end thereof. 
     Connector member  2820  is attached to light transmitting member  2810 , and provides an interface  2822  for attaching protective cover  2800 . Interface  2822  includes a generally cylindrical engagement wall  2824  and a circular flange  2826 . In a preferred embodiment, the outer surface of engagement wall  2824  mates with inner surface  2804  of protective cover  2800 . Circular flange  2826  acts as a stop to prevent over-tightening of connector member  2820  within protective cover  2800 . In this respect, the front surface of circular flange  2826  engages with the front surface of open end  2806  of protective cover  2800 . 
     In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 28A and 28B, an attachment member  2850  attaches an accessory device  2860  to the lighting device. Attachment member  2850  can take a variety of suitable forms, including adhesive tape, Velcro fasteners, clips, hooks, tabs, clamps, snaps and the like. Moreover, it should be understood that attachment member  2850  may be an integral part of protective cover  2800 . In this regard, protective cover  2850  may suitably include molded clips, hooks, tabs or the like, for attachment of an accessory device. Accessory device  2860  can also take a variety of suitable forms, including a medical instrument. In FIGS. 28A and 28B, accessory device  2860  takes the form of a retractor blade. 
     Since attachment member  2850  is separated from light transmitting member  2810  by protective cover  2800  and air interface or gap  2808 , it does not interfere (or minimizes interference) with the propagation of light through light transmitting member  2810  via internal reflection. Consequently, attachment member  2850  does not cause the same problems that are caused by contaminants in direct contact with light transmitting member  2810 . 
     FIGS. 29A and 29B show a protective cover  2900  that is similar in many respects to protective covers  2700  and  2800 , described above. Protective cover  2900  surrounds a light transmitting member  2910 . In this regard, protective cover  2900  has a generally tubular shape, and includes an outer surface  2902  and an inner surface  2904 . In addition, protective cover  2900  has a closed end  2905  and an open end  2906 , with a central body portion  2907  extending therebetween. Closed end  2905  covers the distal end of light transmitting member  2910 , and includes an optional lens L for focusing the light emitted therethrough in a desired pattern. Open end  2906  is dimensioned to receive a connector member  2920 , which is described below. An air interface or gap  2908  is maintained between protective cover  2900  and light transmitting member  2910 . 
     In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 29A and 29B, light transmitting member  2910  also takes the form of a formable rope light which emits light at the distal end thereof. Light transmitting member  2910  is generally flexible. Accordingly, a malleable wire W is provided to hold the shape of light transmitting member  2910  in a desired orientation. Since light transmitting member  2910  is generally flexible, protective cover  2900  is also formed of a flexible material in this embodiment of the invention. For instance, protective cover  2900  may be formed of a flexible PVC material, which will flex along with light transmitting member  2910 . 
     Connector member  2920  is bonded to light transmitting member  2910 , and provides an interface  2922  for attaching protective cover  2900 . Interface  2922  includes a generally cylindrical engagement wall  2924  and a circular flange  2926 . In a preferred embodiment, the outer surface of engagement wall  2924  mates with inner surface  2904  of protective cover  2900 . Circular flange  2926  acts as a stop to prevent over-tightening of connector member  2920  within protective cover  2900 . In this respect, the front surface of circular flange  2926  engages with the front surface of open end  2906  of protective cover  2900 . 
     Referring now to FIGS. 30A and 30B, there is shown a protective cover  3000  that surrounds a light transmitting member  3010 , and takes a form similar to protective covers  2700 ,  2800  and  2900 . In this regard, protective cover  3000  has a generally tubular shape, and includes an outer surface  3002  and an inner surface  3004 . In addition, protective cover  3000  has a closed end  3005  and an open end  3006 , with a central body portion  3007  extending therebetween. Closed end  3005  covers the distal end of light transmitting member  3010 . Open end  3006  is dimensioned to receive a connector member  3020 , which is described below. An air interface or gap  3008  is maintained between protective cover  3000  and light transmitting member  3010 . 
     In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 30A and 30B, light transmitting member  3010  takes the form of a generally rigid “ring light” which emits light at a distal end thereof. 
     Connector member  3020  is attached to light transmitting member  3010 , and provides an interface  3022  for attaching protective cover  3000 . Interface  3022  includes a generally circular engagement wall  3024 . In a preferred embodiment, the inner surface of engagement wall  3024  mates with outer surface  3002  of protective cover  3000 . 
     The invention has been described with reference to a preferred embodiment. Obviously, modifications and alterations will occur to others upon a reading and understanding of this specification. In this regard, it should be appreciated that the present application discloses a numerous exemplary embodiments of the present invention for the purpose of illustrating the present invention. It is contemplated that the various features shown in each embodiment may be combined in a plurality of ways to form further embodiments of the present invention. It is intended that all such modifications and alterations be included insofar as they come within the scope of the appended claims or the equivalents thereof.