EP0810623B1 - Lamp manufacturing method - Google Patents

Lamp manufacturing method Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP0810623B1
EP0810623B1 EP97108276A EP97108276A EP0810623B1 EP 0810623 B1 EP0810623 B1 EP 0810623B1 EP 97108276 A EP97108276 A EP 97108276A EP 97108276 A EP97108276 A EP 97108276A EP 0810623 B1 EP0810623 B1 EP 0810623B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
tube
funnel
glass
lamp
enveloping
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP97108276A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP0810623A3 (en
EP0810623A2 (en
Inventor
Karl-Heinz Dr. Sossenheimer
Herrmann Leiss
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Schott AG
Carl Zeiss AG
Original Assignee
Carl Zeiss AG
Schott Glaswerke AG
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Carl Zeiss AG, Schott Glaswerke AG filed Critical Carl Zeiss AG
Publication of EP0810623A2 publication Critical patent/EP0810623A2/en
Publication of EP0810623A3 publication Critical patent/EP0810623A3/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0810623B1 publication Critical patent/EP0810623B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • HELECTRICITY
    • H01ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01JELECTRIC DISCHARGE TUBES OR DISCHARGE LAMPS
    • H01J61/00Gas-discharge or vapour-discharge lamps
    • H01J61/02Details
    • H01J61/30Vessels; Containers
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H01ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01JELECTRIC DISCHARGE TUBES OR DISCHARGE LAMPS
    • H01J9/00Apparatus or processes specially adapted for the manufacture, installation, removal, maintenance of electric discharge tubes, discharge lamps, or parts thereof; Recovery of material from discharge tubes or lamps
    • H01J9/40Closing vessels
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H01ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01JELECTRIC DISCHARGE TUBES OR DISCHARGE LAMPS
    • H01J61/00Gas-discharge or vapour-discharge lamps
    • H01J61/02Details
    • H01J61/30Vessels; Containers
    • H01J61/302Vessels; Containers characterised by the material of the vessel

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a method for producing a lamp with a Lighting system, a multi-part glass body that can be connected vacuum-tight, one Base unit for mounting the lamp in a lighting fixture and with the for the operation of the necessary electrical supply lines, the multi-part Glass body a one-sided open cladding tube, an insertable into this cladding tube and one of its ends funnel-shaped and at this end with the cladding tube funnel tube connectable by fusion, and a, in this funnel tube at least partially insertable and on the non-funnel-shaped the other end of the funnel tube can be connected to it by fusion another tube, the pump handle to evacuate the interior of the lamp, includes.
  • the special feature of the metal halide lamp is its white light, from warm white to daylight white. They are also characterized by high luminous efficacy and excellent color rendering properties.
  • Sodium xenon lamps represent a modern and economical lighting system for today's accent and general lighting, for example because their color temperature can also be switched.
  • High-pressure sodium vapor lamps are the most economical light sources in terms of overall economic efficiency.
  • Mercury vapor lamps are a preferred and very powerful light source for indoor and outdoor use with high public traffic.
  • the object of the invention is achieved in that the cladding tube into which Lighting system with the funnel tube and the associated by fusion Pump stem is introduced, used in a length as it is used for deformation and the subsequent fusion of the cladding tube with the complete Lighting system without the need for parts of the cladding tube as residual glass is necessary, and the cladding tube first through the pump stem until the formation of a thread or Closure device as a base unit at the open end of the heated and plastic deformable cladding tube blown into a mold and then the interior the cooled lamp is evacuated by the pump handle and by melting is closed under vacuum, by means of through the vitreous Vacuum-tight supply lines in the base area of the lamp contact points generated for the energy supply to the lighting system.
  • the glass body consists of a glass with the composition (in% by weight on an oxide basis) SiO 2 70-78; B 2 O 3 10 - 16; Al 2 O 3 2-6; Na 2 O 2-6; K 2 O 0.5-2; MgO 0-1; CaO 0.5-2; BaO 1.5-3, in particular with the composition SiO 2 74; B 2 O 3 13; Al 2 O 3 4; Na 2 O 4; K 2 O 1.5; MgO 0.5; CaO 1; BaO 2; which is also available under the brand name SUPRAX® from Schott Glaswerke.
  • Glass bodies with wall thicknesses of 0.6 to 2.5 mm and with diameters are used manufactured and processed from 20 to 250 mm.
  • FIGS 1 to 4 illustrate the prior art on which the present Invention builds up.
  • the multi-part glass body 3 comprises a cladding tube 4, which is initially open on one side, a funnel tube 5 which can be inserted into this cladding tube 4 and is funnel-shaped at one of its ends, and a further tube 6 which can be inserted into and can be connected to this funnel tube 5, the so-called "pump stem”. for later evacuation of the interior 7 of the lamp 1.
  • the lamp 1 is held in a chuck 8 or 9 for further processing on the cladding tube 4 and on the pump stem 6.
  • the cladding tube 4 is heated by means of a burner 10 at its lower end at the level of the funnel 5a of the tube 5.
  • Figure 2 If the glass of the cladding tube 4 has been heated for a sufficiently long time up to temperatures of about 1200 to 1220 ° C., it begins to melt, the weight of the edge 4a of the cladding tube 4 which is melting melting to constrict and simultaneously fuse with the funnel 5a of the tube 5 leads.
  • the other disadvantage of the conventional method is that it is not insignificant Glass quantities of the cladding tube 4 are obtained as residual glass and must be discarded.
  • FIG. 3 then already shows the evacuated lamp 1 with the melted-off "pump stem” 6 and the vacuum-tight through the base region 11 of the lamp 1, which is formed from the cladding tube 4 and the funnel 5a of the tube 5 in a separate further working step by means of a form roller is guided electrical supply lines 12 which are connected to the lighting system 2 in a current-carrying manner via a metal base 13, as can be seen in FIG .
  • the metal base 13 is often designed as a thread and fastened to the base region 11 by means of a cement.
  • the putty has to meet special requirements because it has to compensate for the different thermal expansion behavior between glass and metal, even at temperatures of 20 to 400 ° C and over long periods, without becoming brittle.
  • Another very expensive possibility of connecting the metal base 13 to the glass wall of the base region 11 is to blow the glass wall heated by the burner to the state of deformability against the metal base 13. This process step must, however, take place before the lamp is evacuated, the "pump stem” then being blown over the tube 6.
  • FIGS 5 to 10 show embodiments of the method according to the present invention.
  • FIG. 5 shows the very preferred method variant in which the lighting system 2 with the funnel tube 5 and the pump stem 6 connected therewith by fusion is inserted into the cladding tube to such an extent that the open end of the cladding tube 4 and the funnel-shaped end of the funnel tube 5 are positioned and fixed in one plane.
  • z. B. 2 burners or a suitable ring burner is then, as shown in Figure 6 , by means of a roller 14 made of carbon z. B. graphite or Fortadur®, a glass material reinforced by SiC fibers from Schott Glastechnike, the deformably heated lower part of the cladding tube 4 with the funnel 5a of the funnel tube 5 and thus fused with the lighting system 2, thereby according to the invention at the same time a base unit 11 is preformed.
  • the area of the base unit 11 of the glass body 3 which is kept deformable by the application of temperature is surrounded by a (divided) shape 15 as shown in FIG. 7 , which shows the negative of the later desired profile of the base unit 11 and is then inserted into the Glass body 3 is blown air under pressure, the deformable base unit 11 being pressed against the wall of the mold 15 to form the profile, usually a thread. Then, after the glass body 3 has cooled, the interior 7 of the lamp 1 is evacuated and the pump stem 6 is melted off.
  • the electrical leads 12, which are vacuum-tight through the base unit 11 of the Lamp 1 are guided, are now in a preferred embodiment according to the invention no longer connected to a metal base 13, but directly through recesses or recordings in the glass, possibly also with the help of a plastic part fixed so that the lamp 1 according to the invention screwed into every common socket or can be plugged in.
  • Figure 8 shows this sketchy, while Figures 9 a / b and 10 a / b show the details here.
  • a (split) injection mold z. B. a thread Formed in the base region 11 and thereby produces a longitudinal groove 16 which for Inclusion of a contact wire serves as an electrical lead 12a, as in 9a and 10a is shown.
  • Variant I is shown in FIG. 9b and, at the end of the suitably melted "pump stem" 6, shows a deformation which serves to receive the contact wire 12b which is designed as a loop.
  • the security of this connection can additionally be improved by a drop of solder which firmly fixes the electrical supply line 12b at the end of the pump stem 6.
  • Variant II is shown in FIG. 10b:
  • the contact wires 12a and 12b are used for the electrical lead in a plastic part 18, in the holes for fixation the wires 12a and 12b are provided.
  • the suitably shaped plastic part 18 fits exactly into the free space of the base unit 11, which the Cladding tube 4, the funnel tube 5 and the still protruding part of the melted Form pump stem 6.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Manufacturing & Machinery (AREA)
  • Glass Compositions (AREA)
  • Manufacture Of Electron Tubes, Discharge Lamp Vessels, Lead-In Wires, And The Like (AREA)
  • Vessels And Coating Films For Discharge Lamps (AREA)

Description

Die Erfindung bezieht sich auf ein Verfahren zur Herstellung einer Lampe mit einem Leuchtsystem, einem damit vakuumdicht verbindbaren mehrteiligen Glaskörper, einer Sockeleinheit zur Montage der Lampe in einem Beleuchtungskörper und mit den für den Betrieb jeweils notwendigen elektrischen Zuleitungen, wobei der mehrteilige Glaskörper ein einseitig offenes Hüllrohr, ein in dieses Hüllrohr einführbares und an einem seiner Enden trichterförmig ausgebildetes und an diesem Ende mit dem Hüllrohr durch Verschmelzung verbindbares Trichterrohr, und ein, in dieses Trichterrohr mindestens teilweise einführbares und an dem nicht trichterförmig ausgebildeten anderen Ende des Trichterrohres mit diesem durch Verschmelzung verbindbares weiteres Rohr, den Pumpstengel zur Evakuierung des Innenraumes der Lampe, umfaßt.The invention relates to a method for producing a lamp with a Lighting system, a multi-part glass body that can be connected vacuum-tight, one Base unit for mounting the lamp in a lighting fixture and with the for the operation of the necessary electrical supply lines, the multi-part Glass body a one-sided open cladding tube, an insertable into this cladding tube and one of its ends funnel-shaped and at this end with the cladding tube funnel tube connectable by fusion, and a, in this funnel tube at least partially insertable and on the non-funnel-shaped the other end of the funnel tube can be connected to it by fusion another tube, the pump handle to evacuate the interior of the lamp, includes.

Die Erfindung bezieht sich dabei insbesondere auf sogenannte Entladungslampen, wie

  • Halogen-Metall-Dampf-Lampen
  • Natrium-Xenon-Lampen
  • Natrium-Dampf-Hochdruck-Lampen
  • Quecksilber-Dampf-Lampen.
The invention relates in particular to so-called discharge lamps, such as
  • Halogen metal vapor lamps
  • Sodium xenon lamps
  • High pressure sodium vapor lamps
  • Mercury vapor lamps.

Das besondere Merkmal der Halogen-Metalldampf-Lampe ist dabei ihr weißes Licht, von warm-weiß bis Tageslicht-weiß. Sie zeichnen sich darüber hinaus durch hohe Lichtausbeute und hervorragende Farbwiedergabe-Eigenschaften aus.
Natrium-Xenon-Lampen stellen ein modernes und wirtschaftliches Beleuchtungssystem für die heutige Akzent- und Allgemeinbeleuchtung dar, da beispielsweise auch ihre Farbtemperatur umschaltbar ist.
Natrium-Dampf-Hochdruck-Lampen sind, was die Gesamtwirtschaftlichkeit im Betrieb betrifft die derzeit wirtschaftlichsten Lichtquellen überhaupt.
Quecksilber-Dampf-Lampen sind eine bevorzugte und sehr leistungsstarke Lichtquelle für den Innen- und Außenbereich mit hohem Publikumsverkehr.
The special feature of the metal halide lamp is its white light, from warm white to daylight white. They are also characterized by high luminous efficacy and excellent color rendering properties.
Sodium xenon lamps represent a modern and economical lighting system for today's accent and general lighting, for example because their color temperature can also be switched.
High-pressure sodium vapor lamps are the most economical light sources in terms of overall economic efficiency.
Mercury vapor lamps are a preferred and very powerful light source for indoor and outdoor use with high public traffic.

Nach dem Stand der Technik werden diese Hochvakuum-Lampen aus folgenden Teilen und mit folgenden Arbeitsschritten hergestellt:

  • 1) An einem Glasrohr mittleren Durchmessers (5) wird ein Trichter aufgetrieben und der/das Rohrende abgesprengt.
  • 2) An einem dünnen Glasrohr (6) das später zur Evakuierung verwendet wird, dem sogenannten "Pumpstengel" wird ebenfalls ein Trichter aufgetrieben und
  • 3) das Rohr (6) in das Rohr (5) zusammen mit den Leuchtsystem eingeschmolzen.
  • 4) diese Einheit wird dann in ein größeres Glasrohr (4) eingeführt, eingespannt und
  • 5) das Rohr (4) auf den Durchmesser des Trichters des Rohres (5) eingeengt und damit verschmolzen. Dies geschieht durch Erwärmen mit einem Brenner, wobei der abgeschmolzene Rand durch sein Eigengewicht zur Einschnürung und damit zur Verbindung des Trichters mit dem Rohr (4) führt. Hierbei wird als Schutz für das Rohr (6) eine Kohlehülse verwendet, die zum anschließenden Evakuieren wieder entfernt wird. Nach der Evakuierung des gesamten Lampensystems wird das Glasrohr (6) abgeschmolzen.
  • 6) Anschließend wird der Durchmesser des Rohres (4) im Bereich des gesamten Sockeleinheit für die Anbringung eines metallischen Sockels auf etwa den Durchmesser, wie bei Schritt 5 vorgenommen verengt.
  • 7) Abschließend wird dann der Metallsockel an der Lampe angebracht, insbesondere angekittet.
  • According to the state of the art, these high vacuum lamps are manufactured from the following parts and with the following steps:
  • 1) A funnel is opened on a glass tube of medium diameter (5) and the end of the tube is blown off.
  • 2) A funnel is also opened on a thin glass tube (6) which will later be used for evacuation, the so-called "pump stem"
  • 3) the tube (6) is melted into the tube (5) together with the lighting system.
  • 4) this unit is then inserted into a larger glass tube (4), clamped and
  • 5) the tube (4) is narrowed to the diameter of the funnel of the tube (5) and fused with it. This is done by heating with a burner, whereby the melted edge, due to its own weight, leads to constriction and thus to the connection of the funnel to the tube (4). A carbon sleeve is used as protection for the tube (6) and is removed again for subsequent evacuation. After the entire lamp system has been evacuated, the glass tube (6) is melted off.
  • 6) The diameter of the tube (4) in the area of the entire base unit for attaching a metallic base is then narrowed to approximately the diameter as carried out in step 5.
  • 7) Finally, the metal base is attached to the lamp, in particular cemented on.
  • Nachteilig ist hierbei, daß

    • das Glasrohr (4) in Überlänge hergestellt wird und beim Anschmelzen an den Trichter des Rohres (5) ein größerer Glasabschnitt als Restglas abfällt;
    • auch bei nur leicht ungleicher Wandstärke des Glasrohrs (4) beim Abschmelzen der Rand schlecht, d. h. ungleichmäßig abschmilzt, was zum Ausfall der gesamten Lampe führen kann,
    • daß der Kitt, mit dem das Metallgewinde als Sockel üblicherweise auf dem Glasteil befestigt wird durch unterschiedliche Wärmedehnung von metallischem Gewinde und Glas versprödet und die Verbindung zwischen Metall und Glas geschwächt wird.
    The disadvantage here is that
    • the glass tube (4) is made in excess length and when it melts onto the funnel of the tube (5), a larger glass section falls off than residual glass;
    • even if the wall thickness of the glass tube (4) is only slightly uneven, the edge melts poorly, ie unevenly, when melting, which can lead to failure of the entire lamp,
    • that the cement, with which the metal thread is usually attached to the glass part as a base, becomes brittle due to different thermal expansion of the metallic thread and glass and the connection between metal and glass is weakened.

    Aufgabe der vorliegenden Erfindung ist es daher, ein Verfahren vorzustellen, das bei einer erheblichen Materialersparnis, ohne Restglas und mit geringeren Ausgangstoleranzen der Glaskörper eine einfachere und schnellere Fertigung mit höheren Schnittzahlen erlaubt.
    Des weiteren ist es Aufgabe der Erfindung, die Lampe auch ohne ein Sockelgewinde aus Metall herstellen und einsetzen zu können.
    It is therefore the object of the present invention to present a method which, with considerable material savings, without residual glass and with lower starting tolerances of the glass body, permits simpler and faster production with higher numbers of cuts.
    Furthermore, it is an object of the invention to be able to manufacture and use the lamp without a base thread made of metal.

    Gelöst wird die Aufgabe der Erfindung dadurch, daß das Hüllrohr, in das das Leuchtsystem mit dem Trichterrohr und dem damit durch Verschmelzung verbundenen Pumpstengel eingeführt ist, in einer Länge eingesetzt wird, wie es für die Verformung und die anschließende Verschmelzung des Hüllrohres mit dem kompletten Leuchtsystem ohne Anfall von Teilen des Hüllrohres als Restglas notwendig ist, und wobei das Hüllrohr zuerst durch den Pumpstengel bis zur Ausbildung eines Gewindes oder einer Verschlußvorrichtung als Sockeleinheit am offenen Ende des erwärmten und plastisch verformbaren Hüllrohres in eine Form geblasen und danach der Innenraum der abgekühlten Lampe durch den Pumpstengel evakuiert und durch sein Abschmelzen unter Vakuum verschlossen wird, wobei mittels der durch den Glaskörper vakuumdicht zugeführten Zuleitungen im Sockelbereich der Lampe Kontaktstellen für die Energiezuführung zum Leuchtsystem erzeugt werden.The object of the invention is achieved in that the cladding tube into which Lighting system with the funnel tube and the associated by fusion Pump stem is introduced, used in a length as it is used for deformation and the subsequent fusion of the cladding tube with the complete Lighting system without the need for parts of the cladding tube as residual glass is necessary, and the cladding tube first through the pump stem until the formation of a thread or Closure device as a base unit at the open end of the heated and plastic deformable cladding tube blown into a mold and then the interior the cooled lamp is evacuated by the pump handle and by melting is closed under vacuum, by means of through the vitreous Vacuum-tight supply lines in the base area of the lamp contact points generated for the energy supply to the lighting system.

    In bevorzugter Ausführungsform wird das Leuchtsystem mit dem Trichterrohr und dem damit durch Verschmelzung verbundenen Pumpstengel soweit in das Hüllrohr eingeführt, daß das offene Ende des Hüllrohres und das trichterförmig ausgebildete Ende des Trichterrohres in einer Ebene positioniert, fixiert und durch Verschmelzung mit Hilfe einer Formrolle verbunden werden.In a preferred embodiment, the lighting system with the funnel tube and the pump stem connected with it so far into the cladding tube introduced that the open end of the cladding tube and the funnel-shaped Positioned end of the funnel tube in one plane, fixed and by fusion be connected using a form roller.

    Der Glaskörper besteht dabei aus einem Glas mit der Zusammensetzung (in Gew.-% auf Oxidbasis) SiO2 70 - 78; B2O3 10 - 16; Al2O3 2 - 6; Na2O 2 - 6; K2O 0,5 - 2; MgO 0 - 1; CaO 0,5 - 2; BaO 1,5 - 3, insbesondere mit der Zusammensetzung SiO2 74; B2O3 13; Al2O3 4; Na2O 4; K2O 1,5; MgO 0,5; CaO 1; BaO 2; das auch unter dem Markennamen SUPRAX® der Fa. Schott Glaswerke im Handel ist.The glass body consists of a glass with the composition (in% by weight on an oxide basis) SiO 2 70-78; B 2 O 3 10 - 16; Al 2 O 3 2-6; Na 2 O 2-6; K 2 O 0.5-2; MgO 0-1; CaO 0.5-2; BaO 1.5-3, in particular with the composition SiO 2 74; B 2 O 3 13; Al 2 O 3 4; Na 2 O 4; K 2 O 1.5; MgO 0.5; CaO 1; BaO 2; which is also available under the brand name SUPRAX® from Schott Glaswerke.

    Es ist aber auch möglich, daß bei mehrteiligen Glaskörpern unterschiedliche Glaszusammensetzungen verschmolzen werden.However, it is also possible for different glass compositions to have different glass bodies to be merged.

    Dies hat den Vorteil, daß bessere und dauerhaftere Verschmelzungen bei niedrigeren Verarbeitungstemperaturen erreicht werden können.This has the advantage that better and more permanent mergers with lower ones Processing temperatures can be reached.

    Dabei werden Glaskörper mit Wandstärken von 0,6 bis 2,5 mm und mit Durchmessern von 20 bis 250 mm hergestellt und verarbeitet.Glass bodies with wall thicknesses of 0.6 to 2.5 mm and with diameters are used manufactured and processed from 20 to 250 mm.

    Die Erfindung wird durch die nachfolgenden Figuren 1 bis 10, im Vergleich zum Stand der Technik, näher beschrieben und erläutert.The invention is illustrated by the following figures 1 to 10, compared to State of the art, described and explained in more detail.

    Die Figuren 1 bis 4 veranschaulichen den Stand der Technik, auf dem die vorliegende Erfindung aufbaut.Figures 1 to 4 illustrate the prior art on which the present Invention builds up.

    So zeigt Figur 1 eine Lampe 1 mit einem Leuchtsystem 2 und einem damit vakuumdicht verbindbaren, mehrteiligen Glaskörper 3.
    Der mehrteilige Glaskörper 3 umfaßt dabei ein zuerst einseitig offenes Hüllrohr 4, ein in dieses Hüllrohr 4 einführbares und an einem seiner Enden trichterförmig ausgebildetes Trichterrohr 5 und ein in dieses Trichterrohr 5 einführbares und mit ihm verbindbares weiteres Rohr 6, den sog. "Pumpstengel", zur späteren Evakuierung des Innenraumes 7 der Lampe 1. Die Lampe 1 ist zu ihrer Weiterverarbeitung am Hüllrohr 4 und am Pumpstengel 6 je in einem Spannfutter 8 oder 9 festgehalten. Das Hüllrohr 4 wird mittels eines Brenners 10 an seinem unteren Ende in Höhe des Trichters 5a des Rohres 5 erwärmt.
    1 shows a lamp 1 with a lighting system 2 and a multi-part glass body 3 that can be connected in a vacuum-tight manner.
    The multi-part glass body 3 comprises a cladding tube 4, which is initially open on one side, a funnel tube 5 which can be inserted into this cladding tube 4 and is funnel-shaped at one of its ends, and a further tube 6 which can be inserted into and can be connected to this funnel tube 5, the so-called "pump stem". for later evacuation of the interior 7 of the lamp 1. The lamp 1 is held in a chuck 8 or 9 for further processing on the cladding tube 4 and on the pump stem 6. The cladding tube 4 is heated by means of a burner 10 at its lower end at the level of the funnel 5a of the tube 5.

    Figur 2:
    Ist das Glas des Hüllrohres 4 ausreichend lange bis zu Temperaturen von etwa 1200 bis 1220 °C erwärmt, beginnt es zu schmelzen, wobei das Eigengewicht des im Abschmelzen befindlichen Randes 4a des Hüllrohres 4 zu einer Einschnürung bei gleichzeitiger Verschmelzung mit dem Trichter 5a des Rohres 5 führt.
    Figure 2:
    If the glass of the cladding tube 4 has been heated for a sufficiently long time up to temperatures of about 1200 to 1220 ° C., it begins to melt, the weight of the edge 4a of the cladding tube 4 which is melting melting to constrict and simultaneously fuse with the funnel 5a of the tube 5 leads.

    Hier liegt auch eine der Schwächen des Verfahrens nach dem Stand der Technik:

  • Wenn nämlich bei ungleicher Wandstärke des Hüllkörpers 4 der Rand 4a auch nur etwas ungleichmäßig abschmilzt, kann das dazu führen, daß die gesamte Lampe 1 sofort ausfällt und verworfen werden muß oder in ihrer Lebensdauer weit unter den akzeptierbaren Werten liegt.
  • Daher werden sehr hohe Anforderungen an die Toleranz der Wandstärke des Hüllkörpers 4 gestellt. Typisch sind Wandstärken von 0,6 bis 2,5 mm mit Toleranzen von 1,5 ± 1 mm (in Abhängigkeit vom Durchmesser des Hüllkörpers).
  • Die Herstellung solcher Hüllkörper 4 ist entsprechend aufwendig und teuer.
  • This is also one of the weaknesses of the state of the art method:
  • If the edge 4a melts even slightly unevenly if the wall thickness of the enveloping body 4 is uneven, this can lead to the entire lamp 1 failing immediately and having to be discarded or being far below the acceptable values in terms of its service life.
  • Therefore, very high demands are placed on the tolerance of the wall thickness of the enveloping body 4. Wall thicknesses of 0.6 to 2.5 mm with tolerances of 1.5 ± 1 mm (depending on the diameter of the envelope) are typical.
  • The production of such enveloping bodies 4 is correspondingly complex and expensive.
  • Der andere Nachteil des herkömmlichen Verfahrens liegt darin, daß nicht unerhebliche Glasmengen des Hüllrohres 4 als Restglas anfallen und verworfen werden müssen.The other disadvantage of the conventional method is that it is not insignificant Glass quantities of the cladding tube 4 are obtained as residual glass and must be discarded.

    Figur 3 zeigt dann schon die evakuierte Lampe 1 mit dem abgeschmolzenen "Pumpstengel" 6 und dem vakuumdicht durch den, in einem eigenen weiteren Arbeitsschritt mittels einer Formrolle ausgebildeten Sockelbereich 11 der Lampe 1, der aus dem Hüllrohr 4 und dem Trichter 5a des Rohres 5 gebildet ist, geführten elektrischen Zuleitungen 12 die über einen Metallsockel 13, wie in Figur 4 zu sehen, stromführend mit dem Leuchtsystem 2 verbunden sind.
    Der Metallsockel 13 ist oft als Gewinde ausgebildet und am Sockelbereich 11 mittels eines Kittes befestigt.
    FIG. 3 then already shows the evacuated lamp 1 with the melted-off "pump stem" 6 and the vacuum-tight through the base region 11 of the lamp 1, which is formed from the cladding tube 4 and the funnel 5a of the tube 5 in a separate further working step by means of a form roller is guided electrical supply lines 12 which are connected to the lighting system 2 in a current-carrying manner via a metal base 13, as can be seen in FIG .
    The metal base 13 is often designed as a thread and fastened to the base region 11 by means of a cement.

    An den Kitt werden dabei besondere Anforderungen gestellt, denn er muß das unterschiedliche Wärmedehnungsverhalten zwischen Glas und Metall auch bei Temperaturen von 20 bis 400 °C und über lange Zeiträume kompensieren, ohne zu verspröden.
    Eine andere, sehr aufwendige Möglichkeit den Metallsockel 13 mit der Glaswand des Sockelbereiches 11 zu verbinden ist, die von Brennern bis in den Zustand der Verformbarkeit erwärmte Glaswand gegen den Metallsockel 13 zu blasen. Dieser Verfahrensschritt muß allerdings vor dem Evakuieren der Lampe erfolgen, wobei dann über das Rohr 6, den "Pumpstengel" geblasen wird.
    The putty has to meet special requirements because it has to compensate for the different thermal expansion behavior between glass and metal, even at temperatures of 20 to 400 ° C and over long periods, without becoming brittle.
    Another very expensive possibility of connecting the metal base 13 to the glass wall of the base region 11 is to blow the glass wall heated by the burner to the state of deformability against the metal base 13. This process step must, however, take place before the lamp is evacuated, the "pump stem" then being blown over the tube 6.

    Die Figuren 5 bis 10 zeigen Ausführungsformen des Verfahrens nach der vorliegen Erfindung.Figures 5 to 10 show embodiments of the method according to the present invention.

    Bereits in Figur 5 ist der wesentliche Unterschied zum Stand der Technik erkennbar: Das Hüllrohr 4, das wiederum zur Bearbeitung in einem Spannfutter 8 gehalten wird, ist nur so lange ausgebildet, wie es für die Verschmelzung des Hüllrohres 4 mit dem Trichterrohr 5 und damit dem Leuchtsystem 2 wirklich notwendig ist. Hierdurch werden erhebliche Mengen an Glas eingespart.
    Aus Figur 5 ist auch die sehr bevorzugte Verfahrensvariante zu entnehmen, bei der das Leuchtsystem 2 mit dem Trichterrohr 5 und dem damit durch Verschmelzung verbundenen Pumpstengel 6 soweit in das Hüllrohr eingeführt wird, daß das offene Ende des Hüllrohres 4 und das trichterförmig ausgebildete Ende des Trichterrohres 5 in einer Ebene positioniert und fixiert sind.
    The essential difference from the prior art can already be seen in FIG. 5 : The cladding tube 4, which in turn is held in a chuck 8 for processing, is only designed as long as it is for the fusion of the cladding tube 4 with the funnel tube 5 and thus the Lighting system 2 is really necessary. This saves considerable amounts of glass.
    FIG. 5 also shows the very preferred method variant in which the lighting system 2 with the funnel tube 5 and the pump stem 6 connected therewith by fusion is inserted into the cladding tube to such an extent that the open end of the cladding tube 4 and the funnel-shaped end of the funnel tube 5 are positioned and fixed in one plane.

    Mit Hilfe von z. B. 2 Brennern oder einem geeigneten Ringbrenner wird dann, wie in Figur 6 gezeigt, mittels einer Rolle 14 aus Kohlenstoff z. B. Graphit oder aus Fortadur®, einem mit SiC-Fasern verstärkten Glas-Werkstoff der Fa. Schott Glaswerke der verformbar erwärmte untere Teil des Hüllrohres 4 mit dem Trichter 5a des Trichterrohres 5 und damit mit dem Leuchtsystem 2 verschmolzen, wobei dabei nach der Erfindung gleichzeitig eine Sockeleinheit 11 vorgeformt wird.With the help of z. B. 2 burners or a suitable ring burner is then, as shown in Figure 6 , by means of a roller 14 made of carbon z. B. graphite or Fortadur®, a glass material reinforced by SiC fibers from Schott Glaswerke, the deformably heated lower part of the cladding tube 4 with the funnel 5a of the funnel tube 5 and thus fused with the lighting system 2, thereby according to the invention at the same time a base unit 11 is preformed.

    Der weiterhin durch Temperaturbeaufschlagung verformbar gehaltene Bereich der Sockeleinheit 11 des Glaskörpers 3 wird mit einer (geteilten) Form 15 wie in Figur 7 gezeigt umgeben, die das Negativ des späteren gewünschten Profils der Sockeleinheit 11 zeigt und dann wird durch den "Pumpstengel" 6 in den Glaskörper 3 unter Druck Luft eingeblasen, wobei die verformbare Sockeleinheit 11 unter Ausbildung des Profils, meist eines Gewindes, gegen die Wand der Form 15 gepreßt wird.
    Anschließend, nachdem der Glaskörper 3 abgekühlt ist, wird der Innenraum 7 der Lampe 1 evakuiert und der Pumpstengel 6 abgeschmolzen.
    The area of the base unit 11 of the glass body 3 which is kept deformable by the application of temperature is surrounded by a (divided) shape 15 as shown in FIG. 7 , which shows the negative of the later desired profile of the base unit 11 and is then inserted into the Glass body 3 is blown air under pressure, the deformable base unit 11 being pressed against the wall of the mold 15 to form the profile, usually a thread.
    Then, after the glass body 3 has cooled, the interior 7 of the lamp 1 is evacuated and the pump stem 6 is melted off.

    Die elektrischen Zuleitungen 12, die vakuumdicht durch die Sockeleinheit 11 der Lampe 1 geführt sind, werden nun in bevorzugter Ausführungsform nach der Erfindung nicht mehr mit einem Metallsockel 13 verbunden, sondern direkt durch Aussparungen oder Aufnahmen im Glas, eventuell auch noch mit Hilfe eines Kunststoffteils so fixiert, daß die erfindungsgemäße Lampe 1 in jede gebräuchliche Fassung eingeschraubt oder eingesteckt werden kann.The electrical leads 12, which are vacuum-tight through the base unit 11 of the Lamp 1 are guided, are now in a preferred embodiment according to the invention no longer connected to a metal base 13, but directly through recesses or recordings in the glass, possibly also with the help of a plastic part fixed so that the lamp 1 according to the invention screwed into every common socket or can be plugged in.

    Figur 8 zeigt dies skizzenhaft, während die Figuren 9 a/b und 10 a/b hier die Details erkennen lassen. Figure 8 shows this sketchy, while Figures 9 a / b and 10 a / b show the details here.

    Wie unter Figur 7 beschrieben, wird durch eine (geteilte) Einblasform z. B. ein Gewinde im Sockelbereich 11 ausgebildet und dabei eine Längsnut 16 erzeugt, die zur Aufnahme des einen Kontaktdrahtes als elektrische Zuleitung 12a dient, wie es in den Figuren 9a und 10a gezeigt ist.As described in Figure 7, a (split) injection mold z. B. a thread Formed in the base region 11 and thereby produces a longitudinal groove 16 which for Inclusion of a contact wire serves as an electrical lead 12a, as in 9a and 10a is shown.

    Für die Fixierung des anderen Kontaktdrahtes 12b sind nach der Erfindung zwei Varianten möglich.According to the invention, there are two variants for fixing the other contact wire 12b possible.

    Variante I wird in Figur 9b dargestellt und zeigt am Ende des geeignet abgeschmolzenen "Pumpstengel" 6 eine Verformung die zur Aufnahme des als Schlinge ausgebildeten Kontaktdrahtes 12b dient.
    Die Sicherheit dieser Verbindung kann dabei zusätzlich durch einen Tropfen Lot verbessert werden, der die elektrische Zuleitung 12b am Ende des Pumpenstengels 6 fest fixiert.
    Variant I is shown in FIG. 9b and, at the end of the suitably melted "pump stem" 6, shows a deformation which serves to receive the contact wire 12b which is designed as a loop.
    The security of this connection can additionally be improved by a drop of solder which firmly fixes the electrical supply line 12b at the end of the pump stem 6.

    Variante II ist in Figur 10b gezeigt: Dabei werden die Kontaktdrähte 12a und 12b, für die elektrische Zuleitung in einem Kunststoffteil 18, in dem Bohrungen zur Fixierung der Drähte 12a und 12b vorgesehen sind, geführt. Das geeignet geformte Kunststoffteil 18 paßt dabei genau in den noch freien Raum der Sockeleinheit 11, den das Hüllrohr 4 das Tricherrohr 5 und der noch herausragende Teil des abgeschmolzenen Pumpenstengels 6 ausbilden. Variant II is shown in FIG. 10b: The contact wires 12a and 12b are used for the electrical lead in a plastic part 18, in the holes for fixation the wires 12a and 12b are provided. The suitably shaped plastic part 18 fits exactly into the free space of the base unit 11, which the Cladding tube 4, the funnel tube 5 and the still protruding part of the melted Form pump stem 6.

    Diese Art der Fixierung führt zu einer sicheren und guten Kontaktierung mit der Fassung der Lampe 1, sogar noch bei oftmaligem Ein- und Ausschrauben der Lampe 1, was bei diesen Lampen eigentlich nicht erforderlich ist, da sie erst nach dem Ende ihrer Brenndauer einmalig gewechselt werden.This type of fixation leads to a safe and good contact with the socket the lamp 1, even if the lamp 1 is screwed in and out frequently, which is actually not necessary with these lamps, as they only end after the end their burning time can be changed once.

    Die Vorteile der vorliegenden Erfindung sind:

    • erhebliche Materialersparnis von bis zu 10 % Glas
    • bei der Fertigung des Hüllrohres sind wesentlich geringere Toleranzen einzuhalten (Toleranzaufweitung)
    • mindestens 5 % höhere Schnittzahlen bei einfacher Fertigung der Hüllrohre
    • geringere Verpackungs- und Transportkosten
    • kein Anfall von Restglas, u. U. von verschiedenen Lieferanten
    • keine aufwendige Entsorgung
    • schnelleres Verfahren durch unmittelbare Anformung der Sockeleinheit (ein Arbeitsschritt weniger) beim Verschmelzen
    • kein metallischer, insb. Gewinde-Sockel, der angekittet oder angeformt werden muß
    The advantages of the present invention are:
    • considerable material savings of up to 10% glass
    • When manufacturing the cladding tube, much lower tolerances must be observed (tolerance widening)
    • at least 5% higher numbers of cuts with simple manufacture of the cladding tubes
    • lower packaging and transportation costs
    • no accumulation of residual glass, u. U. from different suppliers
    • no elaborate disposal
    • Faster procedure due to direct molding of the base unit (one work step less) when melting
    • no metallic, especially threaded base that has to be cemented or molded on

    Claims (5)

    1. Method for producing a lamp (1) having a luminous system (2), a multipartite glass member (3) which can be connected thereto in a vacuum-tight fashion, a cap unit (11/13) for mounting the lamp (1) in a lighting member, and having the supply leads (12) respectively required for operation, the multipartite glass member (3) comprising an enveloping tube (4) open at one end, a funnel tube (5), which can be inserted into this enveloping tube (4), is of funnel-shaped design at one of its ends and can be connected by fusing to the enveloping tube (4) at this end, and a further tube (6), the exhaust tube, which can be inserted at least partially into this funnel tube (5), and can be connected to the latter (5) by fusing at the other end thereof, not of funnel-shaped design, for the purpose of evacuating the interior (7) of the lamp (1), characterized in that the enveloping tube (4), into which the luminous system (2) having the funnel tube (5) and the exhaust tube (6) connected thereto by fusing is inserted, is introduced with a length such as is required for the forming and subsequent fusing of the enveloping tube (4) with the complete luminous system (2) without the occurrence of parts of the enveloping tube (4) as residual glass, the enveloping tube (4) firstly being blown through the exhaust tube (6) into a shape as far as the formation of a thread or of a closure device as cap unit (11) at the open end of the heated and plastically formable enveloping tube (4), and the interior (7) of the cooled lamp (1) thereafter being evacuated through the exhaust tube (6) and being sealed by fusing off in a vacuum, contact points for supplying power to the luminous system (2) being produced by means of the supply leads (12), guided through the glass member (3) in a vacuum-tight fashion, in the cap region (11) of the lamp (1).
    2. Method according to Claim 1, characterized in that the luminous system (2) with the funnel tube (5) and the exhaust tube (6) connected thereto by fusing, is inserted so far into the enveloping tube (4) that the open end of the enveloping tube (4) and the end of the funnel tube (5) of funnel-shaped design are positioned in a plane, fixed and connected by fusing with the aid of a shaping roller (14).
    3. Method according to Claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the glass member is produced from a glass of the following composition (in % by weight based on oxide) SiO2 70 - 78 B2O3 10 - 16 Al2O3 2 - 6 Na2O 2 - 6 K2O 0.5 - 2 MgO 0 - 1 CaO 0.5 - 2 BaO 1.5 - 3
    4. Method according to Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that different glass compositions are fused in the case of the multipartite glass members (3).
    5. Method according to Claims 1 to 4, characterized in that glass members with wall thicknesses of 0.6 - 2.5 mm and with diameters of 20 - 250 mm are produced and processed.
    EP97108276A 1996-05-28 1997-05-22 Lamp manufacturing method Expired - Lifetime EP0810623B1 (en)

    Applications Claiming Priority (2)

    Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
    DE19621329 1996-05-28
    DE19621329A DE19621329C1 (en) 1996-05-28 1996-05-28 Process for producing a lamp and lamp produced by the process

    Publications (3)

    Publication Number Publication Date
    EP0810623A2 EP0810623A2 (en) 1997-12-03
    EP0810623A3 EP0810623A3 (en) 1998-03-04
    EP0810623B1 true EP0810623B1 (en) 2001-07-04

    Family

    ID=7795466

    Family Applications (1)

    Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
    EP97108276A Expired - Lifetime EP0810623B1 (en) 1996-05-28 1997-05-22 Lamp manufacturing method

    Country Status (2)

    Country Link
    EP (1) EP0810623B1 (en)
    DE (2) DE19621329C1 (en)

    Family Cites Families (9)

    * Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
    Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
    DE1564513B2 (en) * 1966-12-17 1975-09-25 Philips Patentverwaltung Gmbh, 2000 Hamburg Method and device for vacuum-tight closing of a bushing
    DE2737681A1 (en) * 1977-08-20 1979-02-22 Philips Patentverwaltung METHOD OF MANUFACTURING ELECTRIC LIGHT BULBS WITH AT LEAST ONE PISTON CRUSH
    JPS57128438A (en) * 1981-01-30 1982-08-10 Nec Home Electronics Ltd Manufacture of circular fluorescent lamp
    JPS6095828A (en) * 1983-10-31 1985-05-29 Toshiba Corp Production of fluorescent lamp
    JPS60185357A (en) * 1984-03-05 1985-09-20 スタンレー電気株式会社 Method of producing bead-sealed gas bulb
    JPS62154430A (en) * 1985-12-26 1987-07-09 Toshiba Corp Manufacture of glass bulb for tubular bulb
    DE3838697A1 (en) * 1988-11-15 1990-05-17 Patent Treuhand Ges Fuer Elektrische Gluehlampen Mbh METHOD FOR PRODUCING A LAMP VESSEL
    DE3838696A1 (en) * 1988-11-15 1990-05-17 Patent Treuhand Ges Fuer Elektrische Gluehlampen Mbh METHOD FOR PRODUCING A LAMP VESSEL
    US5037342A (en) * 1988-11-15 1991-08-06 Patent Treuhand Gesellschaft Fur Elektrische Gluhlampen M.B.H. Method of making an electric lamp, and more particularly a lamp vessel in which electrodes are retained in the lamp by a pinch or press seal

    Also Published As

    Publication number Publication date
    DE59703940D1 (en) 2001-08-09
    EP0810623A3 (en) 1998-03-04
    EP0810623A2 (en) 1997-12-03
    DE19621329C1 (en) 1997-12-04

    Similar Documents

    Publication Publication Date Title
    EP0391283B1 (en) Double-based high-pressure discharge lamp
    DE69822014T2 (en) Method for producing a high-pressure discharge lamp
    DE3044058A1 (en) COMPACT ELECTRIC DISCHARGE LAMP
    DE3011383C2 (en)
    DE2212536A1 (en) Fluorescent lamp and process for its manufacture
    DE3005052A1 (en) ELECTRIC DISCHARGE LAMPS
    DE2154712C3 (en) Seal for an electric lamp
    DE19852703A1 (en) High intensity discharge lamp with treated electrode
    DE854686C (en) Current meltdown for electric high pressure discharge lamps
    DE3507794A1 (en) Method and device for producing a lamp bulb having a gastight base
    DE1988671U (en) ELECTRIC LIGHT BULB.
    DE102005005264A1 (en) Single ended lamp
    DE60105097T2 (en) CONSTRUCTED FROM AN ELECTRIC LAMP AND REFLECTOR
    EP0810623B1 (en) Lamp manufacturing method
    DE102005046204A1 (en) Incandescent halogen-filled lamp for medium or high voltage, comprises connected tubular sections containing lamp envelopes
    EP0810622B1 (en) Lamp manufacturing procedure
    DE102005046483A1 (en) Discharge lamps especially useful for productrion of Xenon or mercury high pressure discharge lamps has bulb stems, electrode holder rods and electrode support elements
    DE3544465A1 (en) Gas-discharge lamp and a method for its production
    DE19603300C2 (en) Electric lamp with molybdenum foil bushings for a lamp vessel made of quartz glass
    WO2008119606A1 (en) Component for an electric lamp with outer bulb
    AT119228B (en) Power supply lines for vessels made of glass, in particular made of quartz glass.
    EP0295592A2 (en) Electric lamp
    DE866371C (en) Process for the production of high pressure discharge lamps from quartz glass
    DE102005035779A1 (en) Electrical lamp with outer bulb and production process has sealed long inner bulb with a light and outer bulb having narrowed neck section
    DE102004011555B3 (en) Gas discharge lamp has conductors which are bound to envelope by glass with higher linear coefficient of expansion than envelope in surrounding area

    Legal Events

    Date Code Title Description
    PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

    17P Request for examination filed

    Effective date: 19970522

    AK Designated contracting states

    Kind code of ref document: A2

    Designated state(s): BE DE FR GB IT NL

    PUAL Search report despatched

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009013

    AK Designated contracting states

    Kind code of ref document: A3

    Designated state(s): BE DE FR GB IT NL

    RAP1 Party data changed (applicant data changed or rights of an application transferred)

    Owner name: CARL-ZEISS-STIFTUNG TRADING AS SCHOTT GLASWERKE

    Owner name: SCHOTT GLAS

    RAP1 Party data changed (applicant data changed or rights of an application transferred)

    Owner name: CARL-ZEISS-STIFTUNG TRADING AS SCHOTT GLAS

    Owner name: SCHOTT GLAS

    17Q First examination report despatched

    Effective date: 19991112

    RTI1 Title (correction)

    Free format text: LAMP MANUFACTURING METHOD

    RTI1 Title (correction)

    Free format text: LAMP MANUFACTURING METHOD

    RTI1 Title (correction)

    Free format text: LAMP MANUFACTURING METHOD

    GRAG Despatch of communication of intention to grant

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS AGRA

    GRAG Despatch of communication of intention to grant

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS AGRA

    GRAH Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS IGRA

    GRAH Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS IGRA

    GRAA (expected) grant

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

    AK Designated contracting states

    Kind code of ref document: B1

    Designated state(s): BE DE FR GB IT NL

    REF Corresponds to:

    Ref document number: 59703940

    Country of ref document: DE

    Date of ref document: 20010809

    ITF It: translation for a ep patent filed

    Owner name: JACOBACCI & PERANI S.P.A.

    GBT Gb: translation of ep patent filed (gb section 77(6)(a)/1977)

    Effective date: 20010925

    ET Fr: translation filed
    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: GB

    Ref legal event code: IF02

    PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: NL

    Payment date: 20020430

    Year of fee payment: 6

    PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: GB

    Payment date: 20020502

    Year of fee payment: 6

    PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

    STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

    Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

    PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: DE

    Payment date: 20020511

    Year of fee payment: 6

    PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: FR

    Payment date: 20020513

    Year of fee payment: 6

    PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: BE

    Payment date: 20020527

    Year of fee payment: 6

    26N No opposition filed
    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: GB

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

    Effective date: 20030522

    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: BE

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

    Effective date: 20030531

    BERE Be: lapsed

    Owner name: *SCHOTT GLAS

    Effective date: 20030531

    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: NL

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

    Effective date: 20031201

    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: DE

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

    Effective date: 20031202

    GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee

    Effective date: 20030522

    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: FR

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

    Effective date: 20040130

    NLV4 Nl: lapsed or anulled due to non-payment of the annual fee

    Effective date: 20031201

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: FR

    Ref legal event code: ST

    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: IT

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

    Effective date: 20050522