The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Sep. 24, 2002
Filed:
Sep. 10, 1999
Wayne D. Johnson, Chardon, OH (US);
Andrew P. Blau, Richmond Heights, OH (US);
General Electric Company, Schenectady, NY (US);
Abstract
An apparatus and method for improving the performance of a lamp includes an envelope ( ) enclosing an amalgam or dose ( ) of mercury housed in a container ( ). The container maintains mercury vapor equilibrium during lamp operation and prevents mercury diffusion during lamp off periods. The container has an opening ( ) therein selectively adjustable between an open position and a closed position. A bimetal member ( ) is associated with the opening of the container and provides the actuating means by which the container opens and closes. A stopping member ( ), such as a valve or ball bearing, is attached to the bimetal member and extends into the container. When the lamp is in operation, the bimetal member is heated causing it to deflect. The deflection moves the stopping member from the container opening and enables the amalgam to maintain mercury vapor pressure equilibrium. When the lamp is turned off, the bimetal material contracts, closing the container and preventing diffusion of mercury into the amalgam. As a result, sufficient mercury vapor remains in the lamp envelope to provide peak lumen output upon lamp ignition.