This inventor holds 2 USPTO granted patents. Top assignee: Litebeams, Inc.. Active years: 1992-1997.
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1992-1997
Title: Innovations by Inventor Alfred T Schmidt in Portable Illumination Systems
Introduction
Alfred T Schmidt is a notable inventor based in North Hollywood, California. With two patents to his name, Schmidt has made significant advancements in the field of portable illumination systems. His work focuses primarily on enhancing the reliability and efficiency of lighting solutions in various applications.
Latest Patents
One of Schmidt's most impactful inventions is the "High Reliability Incandescent Portable Illumination System." This innovative system is designed for use in scenarios that demand a dependable, high-output light source, such as heliport markers, runway lights, and road hazard indicators. The invention integrates a battery that serves as the energy source, alongside a DC/DC converter that steps up the battery voltage necessary to power a high-output light source. The sophisticated controller generates a pulse stream based on various inputs from a soft start circuit and multiple sensors including a filament temperature and optical spectrum sensor. This design effectively enhances the performance of portable beacons by utilizing high-voltage lamps with low-voltage batteries through advanced voltage step-up electronics.
Another significant patent awarded to Schmidt is the "High Voltage Driver for Gas Discharge Lamps." This invention features a pulse driver circuit capable of delivering very high-frequency pulses with rapid rise times to neon or gas discharge lamps. The improved driver produces greater optical output compared to traditional drivers. The circuit operates in two states: a preionization state at low breakover voltage to initiate gas ionization and a breakdown condition where ionized gas produces optical output. This clever design ensures a consistent voltage range to maintain stable lamp output through a feedback control mechanism.
Career Highlights
Schmidt's inventive contributions have been realized through his role at Litebeams, Inc., a company dedicated to developing advanced lighting technologies. His expertise in electric and optical systems has positioned him as a valuable asset in the innovation landscape of portable lighting.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Alfred has collaborated with notable industry professionals, including Madan M Sharma and Ronald M Schmidt. These partnerships have enriched his work and fostered a collaborative environment, promoting further advancements in lighting technology.
Conclusion
Alfred T Schmidt's inventions in portable illumination systems reflect his innovative spirit and dedication to enhancing lighting reliability and performance. As industries increasingly rely on advanced lighting solutions, his contributions continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of this field.