With Switch Patents (Class 362/205)
  • Patent number: 7784974
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to light sources that have variable and adjustable luminous intensities. According to certain preferred embodiments of the invention, devices are provided that generally comprise (1) a conductive elastomeric material that is located between a first and second conductive surface; (2) a power source operably connected to the first conductive surface; and (3) a light source operably connected to the second conductive surface. In such embodiments, the conductive elastomeric material comprises an electrical resistance that decreases when the material is compressed or contacts a greater surface area of the first or second conductive surface. By modulating the compression state of the elastomeric material (and, therefore, the ohmic resistance thereof), the amount of electrical power transmitted from the power source to the light source is controlled, which in turn affects the luminous intensity of the light emitted therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Inventors: Walter Baechtiger, Kyle Hickey
  • Patent number: 7784963
    Abstract: A multi-function flashlight device is provided in either an all white light emitting diode (LED) or a colored LED version that allows versatile functionality. The flashlight is fashioned to have an outer housing that includes both an integrated means for interfacing the flashlight with a firearm and a surface thereon that serves as a handgrip. The outer housing of the flashlight is configured to be engaged by a clamping assembly that facilitates integration of the flashlight with standard firearm accessory rail assemblies. The flashlight head includes a high-output white LED positioned centrally within an optical element such as a reflector. Should the flashlight be a colored light, four other positions are provided around the periphery of the lens that contain colored LEDs. The flashlight provides the user the ability to selectively and individually control the mode of operation for all of the LEDs contained therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignee: Emissive Energy Corporation
    Inventors: Robert D. Galli, Christopher J. O'Brien, Alexander Calvino
  • Patent number: 7771076
    Abstract: A light emitting device includes a housing having a substantially elliptical perimeter and an elongated aperture for accepting the digits of a user's hand. A first light emitting source is positioned in the housing for projecting a beam of light into a distance in front of the user. A second light emitting source is positioned in the housing for projecting a beam of light toward a surface proximate the user's feet. The housing includes a handle between the aperture and the substantially elliptical perimeter for gripping the light emitting device and wherein the elliptical perimeter distributes a weight of the light emitting device substantially evenly across the user's grip to prevent the user's grip from becoming fatigued.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Inventor: Steven Mattheis
  • Patent number: 7760192
    Abstract: Signals in a proper cadence are recognized as meeting criteria. Such signals are received from a touch plate coupled to a touch circuit. A controller discriminates against spurious signals if such signals are outside an initial tolerance, that is, are faster or slower than a device operator would enter such signals. Providing the criteria for an initial tolerance and a match tolerance are met, the controller actuates a device, such as a light emitting diode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventor: Viktors Berstis
  • Publication number: 20100177508
    Abstract: A flashlight having a main power circuit and a barrel is disclosed. The main power circuit includes a light source and a portable power source for supporting the light source. The barrel is not within the main power circuit. The flashlight also has a ball for holding the light source. The light source is fit and in contact with the inner surface of the ball. The outer circumference of the ball has an array of fin-like protrusions for effectively dissipating heat from the light source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2009
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Applicant: Mag Instrument, Inc.
    Inventor: Anthony Maglica
  • Publication number: 20100177507
    Abstract: A portable electronic device, such as a flashlight, with a battery pack assembly is provided. The battery pack assembly has a cylindrically shaped housing with a base and a cover that form a chamber to hold a battery pack. A printed circuit board is installed in the cylindrically shaped housing to provide multiple functions to the portable electronic device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2009
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Applicant: MAG Instrument, Inc.
    Inventors: Stacey H. West, Robert P. Radloff
  • Patent number: 7744239
    Abstract: A thermally-insulating, glow-in-the-dark, protection shield and grip for a flashlight. The shield encircles the switch so that the switch cannot inadvertently be turned ON to discharge the batteries.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Inventor: Frank M. Bono
  • Patent number: 7740371
    Abstract: An illumination source for a camera includes one or more LEDs, and an electrical circuit that selectively applies power from the DC voltage source to the LEDs, wherein the illumination source is suitable for handheld portable operation. In some embodiments, the electrical circuit further includes a control circuit for driving the LEDs with electrical pulses at a frequency high enough that light produced has an appearance to a human user of being continuous rather than pulsed, the control circuit changing a pulse characteristic to adjust a proportion of light output having the first characteristic color spectrum output to that having the second characteristic color spectrum output. Some embodiments provide an illumination source including a housing including one or more LEDs; and a control circuit that selectively applies power from a source of electric power to the LEDs, thus controlling a light output color spectrum of the LEDs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Inventors: Gary A. Lebens, Charles T. Bourn, Charles A. Lemaire
  • Patent number: 7736015
    Abstract: A light (10) comprising: a cup-shaped, substantially rigid base (12) having a circumferential ridge (14) on the outer wall (16) of the base (12); a battery (18) having first and second poles (20, 22) within the base (12); a PCB (24) overlying the battery (18) within the base (12), the PCB (24) having a plurality of apertures (26) therein, at least one of the apertures (26) containing a LED (28) having first and second lead-ins (20a, 22a), a first of the lead-ins (20a) being electrically connected to the first pole (20) via a connector (30); switch means (32) associated with the PCB (24) electrically connecting the second lead-in (22a) to the second pole (22); and a cup-shaped, flexible, translucent cover (34) on the base, the wall (36) of the cover (34) engaging the outer wall (16) and the circumferential ridge (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: Osram Sylvania, Inc
    Inventors: Charles M. Coushaine, Laura Peach
  • Patent number: 7731385
    Abstract: A lighting device includes one or more light sources, one or more switches, and a controller. The lighting device has multiple modes of operation. The controller selects modes of operation according to the one or more switches. The controller controls or operates the one or more light sources according to the selected mode of operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: Eveready Battery Company, Inc.
    Inventors: David A. Spartano, John D. Crawford, Joseph P. Gardner, Michael W. Sanders, Scott W. Osiecki, Ronald J. Kingston, Mark A. Ferguson, Kang Woon Au, Wai Kwong Lam, Thomas I. Meyers
  • Patent number: 7722209
    Abstract: A flashlight has a lamp, a power source, two switches, and a controller connected to the switches. The first switch controls delivery of power to the lamp, and the second switch selects a dimmed brightness level. The first switch may invoke the dimmed level, or a maximum brightness level. The second switch may be a ring rotatable about the axis the flashlight, and either rotatable through a wide range of positions, with sensor circuitry to detect the absolute position, or having a limited range of rotation, with dimmed level selection provided by a duration of momentary rotation in either direction. The second switch may be positioned outside a leak resistant housing, and may include a magnet detectable by magnetic field sensors within the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: SureFire, LLC
    Inventors: John W. Matthews, Paul Y. Kim, William A. Hunt
  • Patent number: 7718906
    Abstract: A hand-held battery powered device senses when it is picked up, and then automatically turns on. When the device is released or set back down, it automatically turns off. Touch or contact sensors sense the touch of a human hand, causing a circuit in the device to switch on a light source, such as an LED, or a motor, or other load. The device is advantageously designed so that when grasped or picked up, the fingers of the user's hand lay over touch sensors. Various types of touch sensors may be used. The touch sensors operate electrically, and without any movement, or moving parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Eric Beare Associates Ltd.
    Inventors: Ka Hung Au, Wing Kit Lui
  • Publication number: 20100118523
    Abstract: A flashlight in accordance with an aspect of the invention includes an ID module for generating an ID signal indicative of a power mode of the flashlight. In an aspect, the flashlight mates with a removable battery pack that regulates at least one of an output voltage and output current in accordance with the ID signal. In an aspect, the flashlight includes a printed circuit board (PCB) on which the ID module is mounted. In an aspect, the flashlight includes a soft-start module and a bulb, wherein the soft start module increases power to the bulb at a controlled rate when the flashlight is turned on. In an aspect, the flashlight includes a lamp housing having a lens retained by a bezel. The lens includes an axially extending peripheral edge. In an aspect, the flashlight includes a main housing having a lamp housing. A mounting mechanism and mating features are adapted to selectively couple and decouple the main housing and the lamp housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2010
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Applicant: BLACK & DECKER INC.
    Inventors: Scott Hilt, Bradley Jon Mealy, David A. Carrier, Andrew E. Seman, JR.
  • Patent number: 7708426
    Abstract: The present invention provides a flashlight or device having a body with a battery, and a circuit therebetween; recharging terminals for recharging the battery and an adaptor having electrical connectors for connecting to a power supply; structural connection means on the body and or the adaptor to releasably connect the body and the adaptor; and electrical connection means on both the body and the adaptor to releasably electrically connect the terminals and the adaptor. The present invention also provides a flashlight having a body with a light means at one end, a battery, and a circuit therebetween, so that when the circuit is closed the light means will generate light; the light means including a conical reflector, a white light LED emitting a conical light output and a double convex lens portion, the double convex lens portion being located away from the LED so that the outside diameter of the double convex lens portion will a circle of light from the LED which is of substantially the same diameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: Eveready Battery Company, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Dalton, Michael Squires, Kw Au, David J. Alessio, Siu Bong Ng
  • Patent number: 7705542
    Abstract: A flashlight in accordance with an aspect of the invention includes an ID module for generating an ID signal indicative of a power mode of the flashlight. In an aspect, the flashlight mates with a removable battery pack that regulates at least one of an output voltage and output current in accordance with the ID signal. In an aspect, the flashlight includes a printed circuit board (PCB) on which the ID module is mounted. In an aspect, the flashlight includes a soft-start module and a bulb, wherein the soft start module increases power to the bulb at a controlled rate when the flashlight is turned on. In an aspect, the flashlight includes a lamp housing having a lens retained by a bezel. The lens includes an axially extending peripheral edge. In an aspect, the flashlight includes a main housing having a lamp housing. A mounting mechanism and mating features are adapted to selectively couple and decouple the main housing and the lamp housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Hilt, Bradley Jon Mealy, David A. Carrier, Andrew E. Seman, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7703934
    Abstract: A power outage socket device that may be installed on a variety of lamps or light fixtures. The bottom of the device has a male connector adapted to be inserted into the light socket on the lamp or light fixture, in place of the light bulb. A female socket adapted to receive the light bulb is located on the top of the device. The male connector may be recessed. When power is interrupted, emergency power is provided to one or more emergency light sources on the device to provide light. Emergency power is provided by one or more batteries, which may be rechargeable. The device also may include means for connecting a lamp harp, or for allowing a lamp harp to pass through the device. A photoelectric light sensor may be used to detect ambient light and control whether emergency light is provided when normal power is interrupted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Hunter Fan Company
    Inventors: Robert J. Pape, Jeffrey Bowman, Ambreese Sharif Hill
  • Patent number: 7699493
    Abstract: A personal light including a battery power source connected in series with a light-emitting diode (LED) light source and a switching mechanism configured for non-contact actuation are disposed within an environmentally sealed chamber. A reflector is employed to maximize reflection of light emanating from the LED and a lens having an anti-reflective coating thereon associated with the LED opposite the reflector to enhance the light output and magnify the narrow beam of the LED. The switch employs an actuation mechanism exterior to the chamber to activate and deactivate the light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Inventor: Robert L. Canella
  • Patent number: 7695154
    Abstract: A customized light module comprising is provided according to one embodiment of this disclosure. The customized light module, according to this embodiment, includes a housing, a light source, a removable decorative cap and a battery. The housing includes a stem configured to secure the customized light module within an aperture of an article of footwear. The light source is coupled with the housing. The decorative cap may be removably coupled with the housing and may be configured to illuminate when the light source is illuminates. The battery may be accessibly secured within the housing with a two-stage mechanism. The two-stage mechanism, for example, may include a child lock. In some embodiments, the housing has at least two configurations: a first configuration and a second configuration. A circuit is created between the battery and the light source in the first configuration and closed in the second configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: DPM Associates, LLC
    Inventors: Barbara Kay Ellenburg, Parker Stephen Ellenburg, Howard Steve Ellenburg
  • Publication number: 20100073922
    Abstract: A light device includes a reflector disposed in a housing, a frame attached to an upper portion of the housing and having an axle extended into a notch of the frame, and having one or more projections extended from the axle, a carrier includes a protrusion rotatably secured to the frame with the axle and includes a number of depressions for engaging with the projection of the axle and for anchoring the carrier to the frame at selected angular positions, and the carrier includes a curved opening for rotatably attaching a spherical casing, a circuit board is disposed in the casing and includes a light member, the casing and the light member are rotatable relative to the housing and the frame and the carrier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2008
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Inventor: Jen Yen Yen
  • Patent number: 7682038
    Abstract: A portable light is provided having a reflector assembly configured to create multiple modes of light reflection. The reflector assembly surrounds a light source and has first and second reflectors that together define a substantially continuous reflective surface. The second reflector is mounted for axial movement relative to the first reflector. Thus, different modes of light reflection can be produced. In an exemplary embodiment, the second reflector is disposed within a central opening defined by the first reflector, and the reflectors combine to define a substantially parabolic reflective surface, with the light source disposed at a focal point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Assignee: The Brinkman Corporation
    Inventor: Brian Wood
  • Patent number: 7674003
    Abstract: An electrical switch comprises first and second switch elements including respective first and second electrically conductive flexible domes for selectively making electrical connections. The second switch element is disposed adjacent the first switch element with an electrical conductor therebetween. An actuator is movable for exerting force on the second switch element via a spring, and for exerting force on the first switch element via the spring and the second switch element. The second flexible dome may have an actuating force that is less than the actuating force of said first flexible dome.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Streamlight, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond L. Sharrah, Peter J. Ziegenfuss, Mark W. Snyder
  • Patent number: 7651239
    Abstract: An intrinsically safe flashlight (100) includes a housing (100), a battery receiving region (108), an active electrical circuit (202), and a light source (118). The active electrical circuit (202) uses energy from batteries (110) received in the batter receiving region (110) of the flashlight (100) to power the light source (118). The electrical circuitry of the flashlight (110) is energy limited so that the flashlight is intrinsically safe for use in hazardous locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: Eveready Battery Co., Inc.
    Inventors: David Spartano, Peter F. Hoffman
  • Publication number: 20100014284
    Abstract: A multipurpose flashlight comprising a slotted locking donut and insert stick that can be used to start a fire. The multipurpose flashlight provides an easy way for an individual to have all the tools they will need to create a fire in a survival situation or anytime they are participating in outdoor activities.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2009
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Inventors: Jeffery D. Hancock, Dennis Hancock
  • Patent number: 7648255
    Abstract: A liquid-activated lighted ice cube includes a battery-powered electrical circuit and LED housed in a hollow body that resembles an ice cube. The circuit includes electrodes exposed to the exterior of the hollow body that, when in contact with water or other liquid beverage, cause the circuit to turn on the LED and illuminate the beverage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Assignee: Buztronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward D. Lewis, Christopher A. Webber
  • Publication number: 20090323344
    Abstract: A light device is provided that includes a light source and electrical circuitry for supplying electrical power to the light source. The light device also includes a housing having first and second ends and a hollow interior defining a compartment for holding a power source. The housing comprises a woven fiber thermoset composite. The housing is made by applying woven fibers to a mandrel and impregnating the woven fibers with an epoxy and curing the epoxy impregnated woven fibers to form the thermoset composite housing. An electrical interconnect is provided within the housing having first and second resilient contacts for providing an electrical connection between the power source and the light source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2008
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Inventors: John D. Crawford, Thomas D. Boris
  • Publication number: 20090310342
    Abstract: A flashlight includes a flashlight comprising a battery compartment having a space for containing a rechargeable electrical energy source, a wireless transmitting circuit, and a recharging unit; a switch assembly mounted on the battery compartment and comprising an illumination switch and a video taking switch; a head assembly comprising a video camera, a light assembly, and a light sensor; and an antenna. The video taking switch is adapted to press to either (i) activate the video camera if the illumination switch is closed or (ii) enable the sensor to activate the light assembly and activate the video camera if the illumination switch is open. Pictures taken by the video camera are transformed into electrical signals prior to sending to the antenna for transmission via the wireless transmitting circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2008
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Inventor: Hung-Yi CHANG
  • Patent number: 7631984
    Abstract: A flashlight includes a flashlight head assembly that may be used with either one or two batteries. For use with one battery, a body receives a battery therein and the flashlight head assembly is secured to the body. For use with two batteries, an extension unit is secured to the body and the flashlight head assembly is secured to the extension unit. A switch assembly disposed in the body and electrically connected with the flashlight head assembly controls the delivery of power to the flashlight head assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: Lightstick Partners, LLC.
    Inventors: Richard W. Martin, Thomas J. Chadwell, Philip W. Miller, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20090284186
    Abstract: A flashlight with unique flashlight electrical connections, including a switch structure featuring a switch requiring a small amount of force, and a short stroke distance to actuate, attached to a member on which a circuit adding additional functions to the flashlight may be located. The member has conductive springs attached to either end that are used to complete the electrical circuit with the battery and the lamp, while their compressive force is absorbed by a housing protecting the switch structure. A conductive strip is used to improve the conductivity of the circuit in a metal flashlight which has been provided with an electrically resistive protective coating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2009
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Inventors: Greg W. Koch, Bruce K. Bangerter, Kevin E. Collier, Darrell B. Steinicke
  • Patent number: 7614760
    Abstract: A light comprises a light body for supporting an illumination light source and for receiving a battery, a first light source disposed in the light body for selectively providing illumination; a cover for receiving an optional second light source; a switch for selectively energizing the first light source, the optional second light source, or both; and a circuit structure for receiving electrical potential and providing electrical connections among the first light source, the optional second light source, the switch, and the terminals. The circuit structure may include portions in different planes, and may include a separable connector whereby the optional second light source may be removable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Assignee: Streamlight, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond L. Sharrah, John C. DiNenna, C. Bradford Penney
  • Publication number: 20090268443
    Abstract: A replacement battery cap assembly for any firearm optic that is powered by a battery, a preferred embodiment of the replacement cap device, including a housing to secure the battery in the battery compartment of the optic connected to the remote switch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: Slolum L.L.C.
    Inventors: Jeffery Scott Ifland, Matthew Brooks Daniel
  • Patent number: 7604371
    Abstract: A flashlight is provided with an end cap which carries an axially-actuated switch for turning the flashlight on and off with a convenient one-handed operation. The switch is designed with a latching function and a mode selection function which can be cycled through high, low and strobed light outputs with a partial throw of the switch. Cut-out portions are provided in the end cap for guiding a user's finger toward the switch and away from the sidewalls of the end cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Inventors: Glenn Bushee, Jonathan Neal
  • Publication number: 20090257222
    Abstract: The invention provides a non-contact voltage detector (“NCVD”) that includes a housing, a power switch, and an LED flashlight. The housing includes an upper portion and a lower portion which are slidably attachable to one another. A voltage sense circuit is positioned within the housing and illuminates a voltage sense indicator when it detects an AC voltage. The power switch is operable to activate the voltage sense circuit and the LED flashlight. The NCVD includes a first set of rails and a second set of rails for slidably attaching the NCVD to a test and measurement device, such as a digital multimeter (“DMM”) or an infrared (“IR”) temperature gun.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2009
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Inventors: Mike N. Jones, Evans H. Nguyen, Scott D. Bublitz, Jason R. Crowe
  • Publication number: 20090251893
    Abstract: An LED flashlight includes a conductive lamp-shielding barrel, a substrate, a conductive battery housing, a circuit board, and at least two conductive contact bars. When the lamp-shielding barrel is rotated relative to the battery housing to move the substrate toward the circuit board to a first position, a positive contact of the substrate is in electrical contact with one of the conductive contact bars so that the lamp unit emits a light of a first brightness. When the lamp-shielding barrel is further rotated relative to the battery housing to move the substrate toward the circuit board to a second position, the positive contact of the substrate is in electrical contact with both of the conductive contact bars so that the lamp unit emits a light of a second brightness that is different from the first brightness.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2008
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Inventor: Wen-Chin Shiao
  • Patent number: 7594735
    Abstract: A flashlight includes a battery and a circuit for operation to signal to a user that the battery voltage is at selected voltage or power level. There can be two switches each being for operating a light emitting source of the flashlight. The switches are linked 3-way switches and have momentary-on functionality. An enlarged head is located above the barrel and there is the intermediate portion between the head and the barrel. The intermediate portion receives part of the first switch. The second switch is located in part of the tail cap of the flashlight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2009
    Assignee: Pelican Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Sukwon Greg Kang, Kiem T. Lee, Shahid Ali
  • Publication number: 20090218961
    Abstract: A flashlight includes a battery and a circuit for operation to signal to a user that the battery voltage is at selected voltage or power level. There can be two switches each being for operating a light emitting source of the flashlight. The switches are linked 3-way switches and have momentary-on functionality. An enlarged head is located above the barrel and there is the intermediate portion between the head and the barrel. The intermediate portion receives part of the first switch. The second switch is located in part of the tail cap of the flashlight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2009
    Publication date: September 3, 2009
    Applicant: PELICAN PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Sukwon Greg Kang, Kiem T. Lee, Shahid Ali
  • Patent number: 7582838
    Abstract: An electrical switch arrangement comprises at least one actuator for selectively making and breaking an electrical connection between electrical contacts thereof, and an indicator light source for selectively producing light. A switch housing supports the actuator so that the actuator may be actuated, and covers the indicator light source. The switch housing is translucent and/or transparent to light produced by the indicator light source so that the indicator light source is visible through the switch housing when the indicator light source is producing light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Assignee: Streamlight, Inc.
    Inventor: Raymond L. Sharrah
  • Publication number: 20090207595
    Abstract: A pocket-sized flashlight may comprise a hollow cylindrical housing, a solid state light source at a forward end thereof and a switch at a rearward end thereof. The switch selectively connects the solid state light source and two or more batteries, preferably size AAAA batteries, in the housing in circuit for causing the solid state light source to produce light. The pocket-sized flashlight preferably is a relatively long and slim flashlight, wherein its length is between about 12.6 times and about 17.4 times its diameter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2009
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Inventors: Raymond L. Sharrah, Charles W. Craft
  • Publication number: 20090195167
    Abstract: The present invention provides a lighting device having a battery housing to hold a battery, a light housing having a light source and a lens assembly into which said light source will emit light when activated, said battery and said light source being in circuit with a switch to open and close said circuit, said light housing being moveable relative to said battery housing to motivate said switch to open and/or close said circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2009
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Applicant: EVEREADY BATTERY COMPANY, INC.
    Inventors: David R. Dalton, John R. Brown, Timothy J. Rugendyke
  • Publication number: 20090190340
    Abstract: A multi-function flashlight device is provided in either an all white light emitting diode (LED) or a colored LED version that allows versatile functionality. The flashlight is fashioned to have an outer housing that includes both an integrated means for interfacing the flashlight with a firearm and a surface thereon that serves as a handgrip. The outer housing of the flashlight is configured to be engaged by a clamping assembly that facilitates integration of the flashlight with standard firearm accessory rail assemblies. The flashlight head includes a high-output white LED positioned centrally within an optical element such as a reflector. Should the flashlight be a colored light, four other positions are provided around the periphery of the lens that contain colored LEDs. The flashlight provides the user the ability to selectively and individually control the mode of operation for all of the LEDs contained therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2008
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Applicant: EMISSIVE ENERGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Robert D. Galli, Christopher J. O'Brien, Alexander Calvino
  • Publication number: 20090190341
    Abstract: A multi-function flashlight device is provided in either an all white light emitting diode (LED) or a colored LED version that allows versatile functionality. The flashlight is fashioned to have an outer housing that includes both an integrated means for interfacing the flashlight with a firearm and a surface thereon that serves as a handgrip. The outer housing of the flashlight is configured to be engaged by a clamping assembly that facilitates integration of the flashlight with standard firearm accessory rail assemblies. The flashlight head includes a high-output white LED positioned centrally within an optical element such as a reflector. Should the flashlight be a colored light, four other positions are provided around the periphery of the lens that contain colored LEDs. The flashlight provides the user the ability to selectively and individually control the mode of operation for all of the LEDs contained therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2008
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Applicant: EMISSIVE ENERGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Robert D. Galli, Christopher J. O'Brien, Alexander Calvino
  • Publication number: 20090190339
    Abstract: A multi-function flashlight device is provided in either an all white light emitting diode (LED) or a colored LED version that allows versatile functionality. The flashlight is fashioned to have an outer housing that includes both an integrated means for interfacing the flashlight with a firearm and a surface thereon that serves as a handgrip. The outer housing of the flashlight is configured to be engaged by a clamping assembly that facilitates integration of the flashlight with standard firearm accessory rail assemblies. The flashlight head includes a high-output white LED positioned centrally within an optical element such as a reflector. Should the flashlight be a colored light, four other positions are provided around the periphery of the lens that contain colored LEDs. The flashlight provides the user the ability to selectively and individually control the mode of operation for all of the LEDs contained therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2008
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Applicant: EMISSIVE ENERGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Robert D. Galli, Christopher J. O'Brien, Alexander Calvino
  • Patent number: 7566149
    Abstract: A flashlight with unique flashlight electrical connections, including a switch structure featuring a switch requiring a small amount of force, and a short stroke distance to actuate, attached to a member on which a circuit adding additional functions to the flashlight may be located. The member has conductive springs attached to either end that are used to complete the electrical circuit with the battery and the lamp, while their compressive force is absorbed by a housing protecting the switch structure. A conductive strip is used to improve the conductivity of the circuit in a metal flashlight which has been provided with an electrically resistive protective coating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Assignee: Mag Instrument, Inc.
    Inventors: Greg W. Koch, Bruce K. Bangerter, Kevin E. Collier, Darrell B. Steinicke
  • Publication number: 20090185369
    Abstract: A flashlight head connected electrically to a battery is positioned within a housing at a front end thereof and locked by a light-transmissible front cap. The flashlight head includes a project barrel and a control base. A reflector is disposed at a front end of the project barrel and a light source portion of the reflector is mounted on a positioner. An opening is disposed at a center of the positioner. A luminous body passes through the opening and extends into a center of the light source portion of the reflector. The luminous body has a positive electrode pin and a negative electrode pin, and each of the positive electrode pin and the negative electrode pin extends onto the positioner. A cooling plate is adhered to a back side of the luminous body. Two slots form on the cooling plate and are disposed corresponding to the positive electrode pin and the negative electrode pin. A switch is mounted on the control base and positioned corresponding to a button on the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2008
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Inventors: Su-Chang LIAO, Di-Shun Liao
  • Patent number: 7562996
    Abstract: A flashlight has a switch housing in between the battery compartment and reflector. The neck of the switch housing holds a lamp support at a central position within a reflector. An o-ring on the rear of the switch housing seals the battery compartment. The switch housing partially floats within the flashlight tube to allow for a slight adjustment of the lamp relative to the reflector to insure centering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: MAG Instrument, Inc.
    Inventor: Anthony Maglica
  • Patent number: 7562997
    Abstract: A flashlight includes a shell, a battery device held in the shell, a light emitting member installed on a front end of the shell, and a tail cap for the shell; the battery device includes a casing, and several single-part batteries held in the casing; the casing comprises two covering parts, which are joined together; the battery device further includes a socket on the casing; positive and negative poles of the battery device are exposed through front and rear ends of the casing respectively, and they are electrically connected with the sockets; a circuit board is secured in the tail cap, and electrically connected with the battery device; the circuit board has a built-in microcomputer controller to control power to the light emitting member; after a plug of a charger is inserted in the socket of the battery device, the batteries together will be charged through the charger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Inventor: Yun-Zhao Liu
  • Publication number: 20090180280
    Abstract: A multi-action, battery-powered, trigger-activated lighting system automatically provides soft light upon human motion during the night, even in the event of a power outage, and can additionally be deployed quickly for use as an intense flashlight. Furthermore, it can provide low-battery indication to prompt the user to install fresh batteries whenever necessary, before a critical need arises.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2009
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Inventor: David M. Hadden
  • Patent number: 7557720
    Abstract: The invention relates to a portable, personal alarm device. The device features a housing comfortably held within one hand of its user. The device provides emergency tools, particularly in the event of an automotive emergency such as a vehicle accident. These features include a mechanism to cut through the web material of vehicle's seatbelts, and a mechanism to break the vehicle's windows. Both such features providing emergency means of escape for the vehicle's occupants. The inventive device further includes electronic circuits providing a flashlight function, and an emergency flasher, and also an audible alarm function. The device is water resistant and also may be provided from materials which make it visible in the dark, prior to activation of any of its functions. The inventive device also serves the routine function of a key ring so that it will always be available to the user in the event of an automotive emergency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Assignee: Crestwood Partners, LLC
    Inventors: Bennett S. Rubin, Richard C. Adamany
  • Patent number: 7549766
    Abstract: A light and/or selector may comprise a selector rotatable and axially movable in a housing with a member rotatable therewith for indicating rotational position. A projection engages one or more recesses when the rotatable selector is proximate the housing and does not engage the recesses when the rotatable selector is distal the housing. A spring biases the rotatable selector towards the housing so that the rotatable selector must be pulled away from the housing against the bias of the spring to disengage the projection from the one or more recesses and to rotate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Assignee: Streamlight, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond L. Sharrah, Mark W. Snyder, Matthew B. Dalton
  • Patent number: 7549765
    Abstract: A flashlight has a body containing control circuitry, with a lamp connected to the body and to the control circuitry. A photodetector is connected to the body and the control circuitry, and faces the lamp to sense an operating condition of the lamp. The control circuitry operates the lamp in a start up mode until signaled by the photodetector that the lamp is properly operating. After this, the lamp is operated in a normal mode. The flashlight may have a switch with a button that moves through a range of positions. The switch may have several contact elements, and the button may have an actuator registered with each of the contact elements. The actuators may be of different heights, to provide a sequence of switch operation. Some of the actuators may be movable to allow the button to be actuated further after an initial contact is made.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Assignee: SureFire, LLC
    Inventors: Paul Y. Kim, William A. Hunt, Lai Chang Tang
  • Publication number: 20090152081
    Abstract: An electrical switch may comprise a base having three electrical conductors thereon and an electrically conductive flexible dome adjacent the base. The flexible dome has plural longer legs extending from its dome and in electrical contact with a first conductor, has a shorter leg extending from its dome and overlying a second conductor, and has its dome overlying a third conductor. A pushbutton must be moved over a distance substantially greater than an actuation distance of the flexible dome to apply sufficient force to cause the shorter leg to contact the second conductor and the dome to contact the third conductor. A spring between the pushbutton and the flexible dome couples force to the flexible dome.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2007
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Inventors: Raymond L. SHARRAH, Peter J. Ziegenfuss, Mark W. Snyder