A retainer for securing a lamp having a connector. The retainer includes a pedestal having a circumference. A socket for receiving the connector is defined by the pedestal and includes a perimeter extending beyond the socket. A retainer is operably connected to the pedestal and is linearly confined between a first position and a second position. The retainer traverses the perimeter of the socket in its first position. An inhibitor capable of being secured about the circumference of the pedestal constrains the first member in its first position to impede removal of the lamp.

A novel energy efficient recessed downlighted lighting fixture, using a compact laterally twisted, fluorescent lamp, and electronic ballast, provides an easy to install procedure for retrofit installations. Using an integrated socket-and-ballast subassembly, the overall height is reduced so that it can find use with existing metal housings. This recessed fixture uses a newly designed energy efficient compact fluorescent lamp as the primary lighting source. This fluorescent lamp, which is a laterally twisted tube commonly referred to as a "springlamp" allows the shortest lamp known to the fluorescent lamp industry. It provides for minimal light trapping, thereby creating the maximum concentrated lighting output, and lighting distribution that is closest to the illumination supplied by an incandescent bulb. The laterally twisted "SpringLamp" is centrally positioned at the focal point of the parabolically shaped portion of the reflector to produce a collimated-like downlighted column of concentrated light that enhances the illumination efficiency when measured at the central portion of the beam.

The present invention relates to a novel energy efficient, universal replaceable electronic ballast, using compatible adapters, for use in fluorescent lighting fixtures and/or table/floor lamps. This novel energy efficient, universal replaceable electronic ballast comprises a family of electronic ballasts for use with currently available fluorescent lamps; the first being a Circlelite lamp, the second, a compact SpringLamp, the third, either a double or triple biaxial compact fluorescent lamp, and the fourth, a 2D fluorescent lamp. Additionally, these electronic ballasts are available in either an instant start (IS) or a rapid start (RS) designs. It is advantageous to use these universal ballasts with the aforementioned fluorescent lamps because of their increased longevity, typically 9,000 to 10,000 hours, their reduced operating costs and energy efficiencies. Additionally. there are five newly designed families of adapters that are compatible with the universal plug-in electronic ballasts. The first adapter is designed for use with a low profile lighting fixtures having a tabbed base that is secured using two self-tapping screws or rivets, the second adapter for use with a low profile lighting fixtures having a twist-lock mounting base, and a third adapter for use with a low profile fixture having a screw-lock type base. A fourth adapter, having a local switch operating capability, gives height to a table or floor lamp for a coordinated appearance with its accoutrement lampshade. The fifth adapter, having a remote switch operating capability, also gives height to a table or floor lamp for a coordinated appearance with its accoutrement lampshade.

A recessed light fixture with body, reflector and electrical box formed as one piece, preferably of a polymeric material. The fixture includes a self-mounting feature and a seal against air infiltration into unconditioned spaces. The reflector has special geometry that provides symmetrical distribution of light. The lamp socket tilts downward to facilitate lamp changes. The design moves the heat sensitive components of the electronic ballast far from the heat produced by the lamp. The fixture may be installed from the occupied side of the room, eliminating the need for an installer to crawl in attic spaces.

A lighting system and components are described for a lighting assembly, including a socket having a socket body and an electrical connector with a seat in the socket to seal around a light source. The socket is preferably configured to be independent of the mounting arrangement for the lighting assembly. An insulator is also disclosed for a lamp such as a fluorescent lamp having a body which protects the contact on the lamp so as to form a recessed lamp conductor. The combination of a socket and lamp insulator is also disclosed for providing a socket and insulator assembly for reducing the possibility of injury or damage due to high open circuit voltage, environmental effects and the like. Additionally, a lighting assembly is disclosed incorporating the insulator, socket and mounting arrangements.