Importance

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Abstract

A fluorescent lamp holder assembly is adapted to receive various injection molded end cap structures allowing the fluorescent lamp holder assembly to have several embodiments, including watertight embodiments. The fluorescent lamp holder assembly may be disposable or may allow replacement of the fluorescent lamp, with the replacement style being watertight. The fluorescent lamp holder assembly generally includes a fluorescent lamp surrounded by a protective sleeve. A first end cap covers a first end of the lamp and sleeve, while a second end cap structure comprising a power connector cap and tube power connector cap covers a second end of the lamp and sleeve. In one embodiment, the protective sleeve is a structure that includes inner and outer co-axial tubes with a plurality of spacers or creases therebetween and/or therein defining a plurality of chambers defining a plurality of air pockets. The air pockets provide insulation for assisting in cold starting of the fluorescent lamp. Electrical leads that extend between the end caps may be carried by one of the air pockets or be integral with one of the inner and outer tubes as strip conductors. In another form, a ballast may be integrally incorporated into an end cap of the fluorescent lamp assembly. The end cap would be releasably retained onto the fluorescent lamp assembly and be couplable to a source of electric power.

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First Claim