Ray Allen Radford

US Patent:

51556669, Oct 13, 1992

Filed:

Dec 21, 1990

Appl. No.:

7/631401

Inventors:

Ray A. Radford - Andover MA
Robert A. Capobianco - Reabody MA

Assignee:

EG&G, Inc. - Salem MA

International Classification:

F21Q 300

US Classification:

362145

Abstract:

A light beacon for marking tall obstructions which may present a navigational hazard to air traffic comprises a transparent cover and a plurality of linear light sources, each having a central axis. The linear light sources are positioned within the transparent cover in a substantially horizontal orientation relative to a reference plane which will typically be parallel to the horizon. The plurality of reflectors corresponding to the plurality of linear light sources are positioned behind respective ones of the light sources. Each of the reflectors has an optically reflective surface and is configured as a partial cylinder having a parabolic or pseudo-parabolic cross-section. The reflective surface having the parabolic or pseudo-parabolic cross-section defines an optical center comprised of a focal line. The linear light source is disposed with its central axis being substantially coincident with the focal line or optical center of the respective reflectors. When three or more of the linear light sources and corresponding optical reflectors are disposed at equal angles relative to each adjacent pair of optical reflector and linear light source, a composite beam may be generated having a substantially uniform intensity over an arc of up to 360. degree.