With Switch Patents (Class 362/205)
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Patent number: 6299324Abstract: A lantern having a flashing lantern cap includes a flashing lantern cap, a head, and a handle. The flashing lantern cap is formed to be capable of being detachable from the lantern to make light emitted from a lamp of the lantern to flash. The flashing lantern cap is attached at the fore end of the head. The head has the lamp inside and into which the flashing lantern cap is inserted. The handle is coupled to the rear end of the head and stores a battery inside. The handle can further include at the rear end thereof a multi-function portion having at least one of a cutter for cutting provided at an angled inlet, a hammer for breaking a car window, and a compressed gas injector used for self-defense.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2000Date of Patent: October 9, 2001Inventor: Tae Hyung Kim
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Patent number: 6293684Abstract: A wand light has a base tube (1) with a light-tube end in which a base end of a light tube (9) is pivotal concentrically with pivotal-light-switch attachment of the light tube to the base tube. The base tube contains a stored-energy unit (2) in addition to being a handle and a daytime signaler. The light tube contains a light emitter which can include a flashlight bulb (35) or a plurality of light-emitting diode units (18) on a circuit board (14). The light tube is twisted in the base tube for selective switching of current for the light emitter. Moisture-proof pivotal attachment of the light tube to the base tube, moisture-proof construction of the light tube and moisture-proof construction of the base tube render the entire wand light moisture-proof. Predetermined ruggedness, diameter, length, diameter per length and length of the light tube per length of the base tube render it adaptable to a wide variety of uses. Accidental and unintentional switching are prevented with twist switching.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2000Date of Patent: September 25, 2001Inventor: Edward L. Riblett
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Patent number: 6283611Abstract: A flashlight is provided having a housing and a head. A molded member including a grip and an actuator button is molded into the housing as one piece to the housing of the flashlight to seal the flashlight and prevent infiltration of water, gases and small particles. Preferably, the materials of the housing and the molded member are selected of materials that form a chemical bond. Also preferably, the housing and molded member are formed by a two-step molding operation of a two-step molding machine. The actuator may be utilized to turn the flashlight on and off, is preferably located at the rear of the flashlight, and has a limited travel distance to preclude the actuator button from turning the flashlight on under certain conditions. In addition, the head of the flashlight is movable with respect to the housing to turn the flashlight continuously on and continuously off.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 1999Date of Patent: September 4, 2001Assignee: Streamlight, IncInventors: Raymond L. Sharrah, Charles W. Craft
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Patent number: 6283609Abstract: The flashlight of the present invention is comprised generally of a flashlight chassis which houses energy cells, a flashlight head which houses a beam adjustment assembly, and an endcap which houses a switch assembly. The beam adjustment assembly and the switch assembly utilize printed circuit boards to support the lamp bulb and switch, respectively. The beam adjustment assembly mounts inside the flashlight head and can only be accessed and adjusted by removing the outer lens retaining ring that secures the assembly within the head. Once accessed, the bulb support of the assembly can be rotated relative to the reflector of the assembly to adjust the light focal length of the flashlight. The adjustment assembly is also provided with a shock absorber that supports the light bulb. In one embodiment, the endcap is provided with a threads to permit the flashlight to be axially attached to an expandable baton.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 1996Date of Patent: September 4, 2001Assignee: Armament Systems and Procedures, Inc.Inventors: Kevin L. Parsons, Donald A. Keller, Clay C. Reeves
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Patent number: 6278071Abstract: A waterproof switch in a flashlight has a switch assembly, a waterproof bonnet received between the switch assembly and the hollow cylinder and an abutting member received in the switch assembly to force the switch assembly to move toward the waterproof bonnet to allow the switch assembly to have a waterproof engagement with the hollow cylinder.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2000Date of Patent: August 21, 2001Inventor: Han-Liang Chen
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Publication number: 20010012204Abstract: A flashlight with a rotatable lamp head is provided. The lamp head pivots about two cylindrical coaxial electrical connectors. The lamp head also includes reflector having a major parabolic reflective surface and a minor reflective parabolic surface. The reflector is configured so that the minor reflective surface is nested within the major reflective surface. The flashlight also includes a series of fluid-tight seals to insure that the flashlight is waterproof. In addition, a flapper valve is provided to function as a one-way valve allowing the release of gases produced by the use of the batters, and preventing fluid from entering the flashlight. A battery charger is also provided to recharge a battery pack for the flashlight.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 6, 2001Publication date: August 9, 2001Inventors: Raymond Sharrah, John DiNenna, Charles Craft
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Patent number: 6249089Abstract: The present invention, according to a preferred embodiment, is directed to portable electronic devices which operate on exhaustible power sources, for example, batteries. The electronic devices of the present invention comprise at least one signal switch and a microchip in communication with the switch wherein the switch is only capable of transmitting a signal to the microchip that the switch has been activated or deactivated. The microchip is in communication with the exhaustible power source of the electronic device and controls (i) the power on/off function of the device, (ii) at least one other function of the device in response to activation and deactivation signals from the switch, and (iii) an automatic shut off function in response to the receipt of an activation signal from the switch.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 1998Date of Patent: June 19, 2001Inventor: Frederick J. Bruwer
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Patent number: 6239555Abstract: A flashlight includes a source of power, a source of light, and switching circuitry connected with the source of power and the source of light. The source of light is a semiconductor diode capable of emitting white light when energized. The source of power may be a battery or a generator. The switching circuitry is operable between an on condition and an off condition. When the switching circuitry is in the off condition, it is effective to energize the semiconductor diode to provide light of a low intensity to facilitate locating the flashlight. When the switching circuitry is in the on condition, it is effective to energize the semiconductor diode to emit white light of an intensity sufficient to illuminate objects spaced more than six feet from the flashlight. The switching circuitry includes a transistor which is operated between conducting and non-conducting conditions by a flip/flop in response to manual actuation of a pushbutton.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2000Date of Patent: May 29, 2001Inventor: Erwin J. Rachwal
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Patent number: 6227678Abstract: A lighting device includes a body having a compartment for containing a battery cell, a light bulb supported by the body for energization by the battery cell, a switch on the body for controlling the energization of the light bulb, and at least one contact unit at one end of the compartment for making co-axial contact withthe battery cell. The contact unit includes a conductive coil spring having an end, a conductive end cap at the end for contacting the battery cell, and a stationaryholder for maintaining the spring substantially straight.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 1999Date of Patent: May 8, 2001Inventor: Andrew Kai Ching Yau
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Patent number: 6224236Abstract: A light-emitting amusement retractable seat comprising a top cover, a combined body including a light-emitting seat, a light-emitting cover, and a light-emitting diode, a sleeve mounted below the top cover, a clipping seat mounted within the sleeve, a spring and a metallic cap mounted in between the light-emitting seat and the clipping seat, a rotating seat mounted within the clipping seat, a retractable socket mounted within the rotating seat, and a combination of usable objects mounted within the retractable socket, and a bottom cover mounted at the bottom of the sleeve to protect the combination of usable objects such as an eraser, a lipstick, a lipstick get or a stamp having elongated shapes. The inner wall of the sleeve is provided with two vertical protruded rails, corresponding to each other to guide the entry of the vertical guiding grooves at the outer wall of the clipping seat.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 1999Date of Patent: May 1, 2001Inventor: Ming-Tay Shu
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Patent number: 6220720Abstract: A rotatable head flashlight utilizes a bulb carrier having a circuit board on which are mounted contacts which remain in engagement with energy cells in a battery compartment, a bulb-receiving socket, and a switch assembly engageable with, and operated by, a molded shelf on the inner wall of the battery compartment. The switch includes three contacts, one being a movable contact in the form of a resilient, bridge-like element overlying both of the other contacts, the latter two contacts being printed on the circuit board.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 1999Date of Patent: April 24, 2001Assignee: Princeton Tectonics, Inc.Inventor: Jeffrey C. Stephens
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Patent number: 6220719Abstract: A renewable energy flashlight comprises a housing and a barrel located within the housing. A wire coil wraps around the barrel, between the barrel and the housing. A magnet oscillates within the barrel when the flashlight is shaken, generating an alternating current in the coil. Two springs at either end of the barrel cause the magnet to recoil when the magnet strikes the springs. As an alternative, rebound magnets oriented to repel the charging magnet may be installed within the barrel at either end, to cause the magnet to recoil from the ends. An electronics assembly within the housing includes a capacitor for storing charge, a rectifier connected to the capacitor, and means for conducting current flowing in the coil to the rectifier, to charge the capacitor. An LED is connected to the capacitor by means of a switch, and lights up when the switch is switched on.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 1999Date of Patent: April 24, 2001Assignee: Applied Innovative Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Steven Robert Vetorino, James Victor Platt, Douglass Anderson Springer
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Patent number: 6213623Abstract: A resilient watertight light baton is disclosed having multicolored light source and power source mounted therein. The light sources are in electrical communication with the power source via interior electronics and solid state light sources. The exterior walls of the light baton are machined to effectively transmit light from the light source. The baton is extremely easy to use with only one hand and is controlled with a single button. By pressing the button the unit turns on and a steady glow color is emitted. By pushing the button again the color changes. By pressing and holding the button the selected color flashes. Ten colors or more may be selected or caused to flash using this procedure. This type of design is extreme robustness and can withstand extreme depths of submergence, making it useful for deep diving and submergence signaling applications.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 1998Date of Patent: April 10, 2001Inventor: James P Campman
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Patent number: 6196698Abstract: 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. A 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: GrantFiled: September 16, 1997Date of Patent: March 6, 2001Assignee: Mag Instrument, Inc.Inventor: Anthony Maglica
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Patent number: 6193388Abstract: A flashlight in accordance with the present invention includes a chamber, end cap, head assembly and lamp holder assembly. The end cap includes a bowed tripod portion to facilitate standing the flashlight on a flat surface. The head assembly includes a reflector and a lens. In one embodiment of the invention, the head assembly includes an elliptical reflector. In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, the flashlight having a elliptical reflector is matched with a negative or planar lens. In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, the head assembly includes an hyperbolic reflector. In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, the flashlight having a hyperbolic reflector is matched with a positive or planar lens. In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the flashlight includes electrode connections which prevent the conduction of electrical energy from batteries which are improperly aligned within the flashlight.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 1998Date of Patent: February 27, 2001Assignee: Bison Sportslights, Inc.Inventors: Christopher Lee Halasz, Stephen Sandor Halasz
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Patent number: 6190025Abstract: An illumination device includes a housing and a multi-position switch for selecting various modes of operation. A security block is mounted to the housing adjacent the switch. The security block may be attached to the housing in at least two different orientations. In a first orientation, the security block prevents the switch from being in a position corresponding to certain modes (e.g., those which create a high intensity light beam). When positioned in a second orientation, the security block is attached to the housing but permits the switch to be in other or all positions, thereby permitting various modes of operation.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignee: Insight Technology, Inc.Inventor: Kenneth S. Solinsky
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Patent number: 6190020Abstract: A light producing source for a collimating reflector type flashlight is explained. At least one light emitting diode acts as the light producing source wherein produced light is dispersed away from a central axis. This provides for utilization of the collimating reflector for collimation of the produced light into a beam of light for projection from the flashlight. Various diffusion methods are explained. A bulb assembly is capable of housing the required light production and dispersion components while retaining a sizing and outer shape which permits eventual usage in existing flashlights having incandescent lamps (bulbs) without requiring modification to the flashlight. Means are also explained to utilize a collimating reflector attachable to, or incorporated into, the bulb assembly wherein the produced light does not interact with an existing collimating reflector on the flashlight.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Inventor: Fred Jack Hartley
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Patent number: 6183105Abstract: A flashlight which includes a rechargeable battery and is loaded from the base of the body of the flashlight. The contacts are on the barrel of the flashlight and are for contact with the recharging device. On top of the battery there is a tangentially directed spring member for contacting a ring of the top contact of the battery and a permanently located stud member in the central location. An enlarged head is located between the intermediate portion which is located between the head and the barrel. The intermediate portion receives the switching device.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 1999Date of Patent: February 6, 2001Assignee: Pelican Products, Inc.Inventor: David Parker
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Patent number: 6170960Abstract: A miniature flashlight comprising a barrel, tailcap, head, bulb holder, bulb and an electrical circuit. The bulb holder is positioned at one end of the barrel such that the bulb extends into the head. The head includes a parabolic reflector surrounding the bulb such that the rotation of the head relative to the barrel changes the focus of the flashlight beam. A rotary switch associates the bulb holder with the barrel to control opening and closing of the electrical circuit. Rotation of the head away from the barrel closes the electrical circuit. The head is not a part of the electrical circuit and its removal exposes the bulb for substantially spherical illumination. The head assembly is removable from the barrel for use as a base into which the tailcap is inserted to stand the miniature flashlight in its “on” condition, as a lamp.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 1999Date of Patent: January 9, 2001Assignee: MAG Instrument Inc.Inventor: Anthony Maglica
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Patent number: 6161938Abstract: A flashlight particularly useful by safety personnel such as a firefighter and capable of operation with rechargeable battery means or non-rechargeable battery means. The flashlight includes a one-piece plastic casing having a tubular body portion defining a battery compartment and a right angled head portion in which a light bulb is mounted. The battery compartment is closed by an end cap on which electrical conductive means is mounted to form a part of the battery circuit when non-rechargeable batteries are placed in the compartment. A plurality of charging contacts are mounted on the rear wall of the body portion of the flashlight for enabling rechargeable batteries to be recharged while in the compartment. The charging contacts are recessed within the rear wall of the battery compartment so that they can not be engaged by non-rechargeable batteries within the compartment.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 1999Date of Patent: December 19, 2000Assignee: Koehler-Bright Star, Inc.Inventors: Paul A. Kish, Randy S. Cramer
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Patent number: 6158874Abstract: The invention is a multi-beam flashlight device with a high intensity lamp in a rotatable reflector housing at one end of the device, and a low intensity lamp positioned in the reflector housing to generate a low intensity light beam at an acute angle relative to the high intensity beam. Each lamp bulb is controlled individually by separate switches located on the case of the flashlight. A flat-sided ring member encircles the rotatable reflector housing to prevent the flashlight from rolling when placed on a surface. The low intensity lamp may be designed to produce a colored low intensity beam to reduce visual detection from a distance.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 1999Date of Patent: December 12, 2000Inventors: Samuel Brustein, Stacey S. Brustein
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Patent number: 6158875Abstract: A miniaturized flashlight which includes a top, and bottom, each of which is snap-fittingly secured to the other and joined by a further element, a flexible tubular housing. A battery bridge is provided at the bottom of the bottom portion along with upstanding battery separators to thereby physically separate two batteries while electrically putting them in partial series contact. The top is adapted to fit over and ride upon the tubular member. The top has a separate electronic bridge at its upper portion for permanently engaging one battery, and leaf spring for selectively electrically engaging the adjacent bulb base above the other battery to thereby activate the circuit to illuminate the light bulb located in the top. The battery is located at one side of the top and a holder is disposed on the top adjacent the bulb.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 1999Date of Patent: December 12, 2000Assignee: Adva-Lite, Inc.Inventors: Keith H. Olivit, Michael Gingrich, Miro S. Cater
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Patent number: 6158871Abstract: An illuminating ball-point pen includes an elongated tubular holder, a hollow protective member fitted on an upper end of the elongated tubular holder, a battery mounting arranged inside the protective seat, batteries fitted inside the battery mounting and electrically connected in series, a seat mounted in a top of the battery mounting, a metal stopper mounted under the battery mounting and having a bottom provided with a flange, a spring enclosing the battery mounting and the metal stopper and having an upper end bearing against the battery mounting and a lower end bearing against the flange of the metal stopper, a light bulb disposed on the seat and having a leg extending downwardly through the seat to contact an electrode of the batteries and another leg extending downwardly between the battery mounting and the spring, a transparent hood engageable with an upper end of the hollow protective member, and a reservoir tube fitted inside the elongated tubular holder and having an upper end bearing against a boType: GrantFiled: October 14, 1998Date of Patent: December 12, 2000Assignee: Raymond Geddes Company, IncInventors: William T. Geddes, Craig A. Bunker
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Patent number: 6140776Abstract: A flashlight includes a source of power, a source of light, and switching circuitry connected with the source of power and the source of light. The source of light is a semiconductor diode capable of emitting white light when energized. The source of power may be a battery or a generator. The switching circuitry is operable between an on condition and an off condition. When the switching circuitry is in the off condition, it is effective to energize the semiconductor diode to provide light of a low intensity to facilitate locating the flashlight. When the switching circuitry is in the on condition, it is effective to energize the semiconductor diode to emit white light of an intensity sufficient to illuminate objects spaced more than six feet from the flashlight. The switching circuitry includes a transistor which is operated between conducting and nonconducting conditions by a flip/flop in response to manual actuation of a pushbutton.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 1999Date of Patent: October 31, 2000Inventor: Erwin J. Rachwal
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Patent number: 6109761Abstract: A new and improved flashlight including a cylindrical interior container having a cylindrical side wall of a first diameter terminating in a circular interior face and an open exterior face forming a chamber therein and a battery positioned within the chamber. The flashlight also includes a closure for the interior container with a central aperture for receiving a light bulb and with a parabolic reflector surrounding the light bulb and a transparent covering thereover. Also included as a component of the flashlight is an exterior container surrounding the primary container and a portion of the closure. The exterior container is flexible and of a size greater than that of the interior container. Lastly included is a quantity of particles located in the space between the interior container and the exterior container adapted to allow the exterior container.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 1999Date of Patent: August 29, 2000Inventors: Carol Smith, Paul Berman
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Patent number: 6109763Abstract: Light section 1 comprises a body case 8 accommodating batteries 5 and a lens cap 7 containing a light bulb 4 and detachably mounted at the bottom edge opening of the body case 8. Outer periphery of light section 1 is covered by an outer cylindrical section 2 provided with a switching operation projection 10a and a stopper spring 12 such as to allow free relative sliding movements. The light section 1 and the outer cylindrical section 2 are stored in the hollow space of a decorative section 3 which is fitted with the outer cylindrical section 2. When the decorative section 3 is lifted from the state of being mounted on an installation surface 11, the outer cylindrical section 2 rises. Concurrently, an illumination circuit for the light bulb 4 is closed by a lead spring 9 being inwardly pushed by the switching operation projection 10a.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 1998Date of Patent: August 29, 2000Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masuo Ohta, Kinya Kawanobe
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Patent number: 6099141Abstract: A flashlight for use in emergency situations includes a front light, a rear light, a translucent body with lights underneath to serve as a light beacon, and pivotable legs for supporting the flashlight in a freestanding position. When the legs are pivoted away from the flashlight body, a normally open switch closes, automatically turning on the lights in the translucent body and operating the flashlight as an emergency light beacon. The material used in the translucent body and/or the lights in the body are preferably colored red to designate an emergency situation. Front and rear light sources on the flashlight, which can be adjustable, provide ambient and task lighting in the same manner as conventional flashlights. The flashlight may include a cigarette lighter adapter and rechargeable batteries as an alternative power source to conventional batteries.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 1998Date of Patent: August 8, 2000Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Electronics, Inc.Inventor: Antonio Landamia
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Patent number: 6092910Abstract: A flashlight includes a tubular barrel having an upper end formed with external threads and a lower end firmed with internal threads, a head having a lower end formed with internal threads adapted to engage with the external threads of the tubular barrel, an electrical socket fitted within the upper end of the tubular barrel, a light bulb having two depending electrodes received in the first and second holes of the electrical socket, a reflector arranged on the electrical socket and having a central opening for passage of the light bulb, a piece of glass arranged on the reflector, a tail having an upper end threadedly engage able a lower end of the tubular barrel, a water-proof cap mounted on a lower end of the tail, and a switch arranged within the tail and having a push button fitted in the water-proof cap, whereby the flashlight can be easily operated by depressing the switch at the tail.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 1999Date of Patent: July 25, 2000Inventor: Rick Sung
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Patent number: 6086217Abstract: A tool includes a handle in which a cassette is received and a shank extending from the handle with a bit or a socket connected to the shank. The cassette has batteries received therein and two tubes extending from the first end thereof so that two bulbs are received in the two tubes. A button device is connected to the second end of the cassette and contacts the batteries. The button device and the cassette are a one-piece member which is conveniently received in and removed from the handle.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 1999Date of Patent: July 11, 2000Assignees: Paul L. Lee, Hsin-Yen Lin, Michael C. WuInventor: Yu-Jie Jau
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Patent number: 6082872Abstract: An indicating device fastenable using a fastening band includes a housing, a light source mount having a light source module secured at a front end of the housing; a rear cover fitted at a rear end of the housing; a reset spring secured in the housing using a spindle screw and a nut; a metallic movable shaft mount, the reset spring having an outer end positioned at a lower end of the movable shaft mount; an electrically conductive spring secured at a central portion at the other end of the movable shaft mount, and a rotary shaft mount having a lower end disposed in an annular groove at an outer side of the movable shaft mount. The rotary shaft mount is internally provided with a battery chamber adapted to receive two batteries, one end of the batteries pressing against the electrically conductive spring with the other end resting against a positive conductive plate of the light source module entering from a through hole in front.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 1998Date of Patent: July 4, 2000Inventor: Wu-Hsiung Ting
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Patent number: 6079847Abstract: A programmable signal light which can be used as a flashlight, an alarm light, a signal light, or a lantern. The light has a battery, a circuit board, a three-position switch, and a thumbwheel which can be set for any period up to ninety-nine hours. The light remains off until the predetermined number of hours has elapsed, then turns on.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 1998Date of Patent: June 27, 2000Inventor: Chad Carl Nelson
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Patent number: 6068386Abstract: A flashlight having a body formed in the shape of a bottle, for example a soda bottle. The body of the flashlight has three body sections, a first body section having a relatively larger outside diameter that reproduces the appearance of the base of a bottle, a second body section having a relatively smaller outside diameter and which reproduces the appearance of the neck of the bottle, and a transitional body section joining the first and second body sections and which reproduces the shoulder of the bottle. The flashlight includes a lens assembly at one the end of the flashlight body that has the largest outside diameter, and a switch at the neck-end of the body.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 1998Date of Patent: May 30, 2000Inventor: Kenneth R. Pastega
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Patent number: 6062700Abstract: An armband which provides a platform for both holding and directing a beam of light from a flashlight as well as protection from blows and knife attacks. The armband has a circular body which is slipped over the forearm of the user The armband provides mild compression of the forearm so that the armband does not readily slip off of the user. The armband is further tightened using at least one fastening strap which "cinches" the armband tighter onto the arm. In the preferred embodiment, two fastening straps are used, one above and one below the muscle bulge on the forearm. The flashlight is secured to the armband to direct the beam of light parallel to the forearm. Activation of the flashlight is by tapping a spring activator which engages the switch on the flashlight. To provide further protection, a shield is also incorporated into the armband. In the preferred embodiment the shield is removable from the armband, but, in other embodiments, the shield is embedded into the armband itself.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 1999Date of Patent: May 16, 2000Inventor: Ray Price
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Patent number: 6062702Abstract: A novel hand held waterproof or submersible laser illumination device which provides for prolonged precise controlled illumination. The present invention also provides for a combination generalized illumination and selectable precise laser outputs.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 1997Date of Patent: May 16, 2000Inventor: Mark Howard Krietzman
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Patent number: 6045236Abstract: The present invention is directed to an on/off switch for a flashlight having a reflector secured against axial motion. The reflector has a central opening. The flashlight includes a bulb with a base having an outer cylindrical electrical terminal. The bulb extends through the central opening of the reflector. The switch includes a bulb holder, with the bulb secured in and moving with the bulb holder. The switch also includes an electrical contact disposed in the flashlight so as to be adjacent and biased away from the cylindrical electrical terminal of the bulb. The switch also includes a ring rotatably disposed in the flashlight. The ring is mechanically linked to the bulb holder and includes an element disposed adjacent the electrical contact.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 1996Date of Patent: April 4, 2000Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.Inventors: Leo K. F. Cheng, Eddie Y. H. Lo, Victer Au-Yeung Tin Shun, Roger Q. Smith
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Patent number: 6045237Abstract: The flashlight of the present invention is comprised generally of a flashlight chassis which houses energy cells, a flashlight head which houses a beam adjustment assembly, and an endcap which houses a switch assembly. The beam adjustment assembly and the switch assembly utilize printed circuit boards to support the lamp bulb and switch, respectively. The beam adjustment assembly mounts inside the flashlight head and can only be accessed and adjusted by removing the outer lens retaining ring that secures the assembly within the head. Once accessed, the bulb support of the assembly can be rotated relative to the reflector of the assembly to adjust the light focal length of the flashlight. The adjustment assembly is also provided with a shock absorber that supports the light bulb. In one embodiment, the endcap is provided with a threads to permit the flashlight to be axially attached to an expandable baton.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 1998Date of Patent: April 4, 2000Assignee: Armament Systems and Procedures, Inc.Inventors: Kevin L. Parsons, Donald A. Keller, W. Clay Reeves
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Patent number: 6039456Abstract: A squeeze-activated flashlight including a housing adapted to receive a first battery and a second battery. A lamp holder is attached to one end of the housing and is adapted to receive an illuminating lamp. An electrical switch including a resiliently flexible arm is electrically connected to the batteries and the lamp. A flexible jacket covers and encloses the electrical switch, housing and batteries and is adapted to be squeezed and pressed inwardly to resiliently bend the arm into electrical contact with the batteries and thereby illuminate the lamp. The housing and switch are adapted to be machine assembled.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 1999Date of Patent: March 21, 2000Assignee: Press-A-Lite CorporationInventor: Paul R. Chabria
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Patent number: 6033081Abstract: A lighted tool for providing illumination to socket wrench sockets and the like. An adapter houses a battery-powered light source that may have a plurality of individual light sources. An extension projects inwardly into the adapter to mechanically engage the light. Flanges projecting outwardly from the extender are trapped between the adapter and a threaded ring that threads upon the adapter to trap the flanges, and therefore the extender, between the threaded ring and the adapter. The light may be illuminated by either compressing the light as by tightening the threaded ring or by a separate switch. Upon such compression, a spring- or other biased-contact may close the circuit to transmit the battery power to the lights. Furrows along the sides of the extender allow the light to transmit forwardly and to be projected upon and illuminate any tool held upon a forward projection of the extender and any nut, bolt, or other fastener head that is to be engaged by such a socket or other tool bit.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 1998Date of Patent: March 7, 2000Inventor: En Liung "Sunny" Huang
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Patent number: 6024467Abstract: A laser pointer includes a first metal barrel having a first end closed with a metal screw cap, and a second end, which is opened, the first metal barrel holding a battery set, a control circuit board, an axially extended spring member and a laser diode supported on the axially extended spring member and extended out of the second end of the first metal barrel; a second metal barrel having a first end opened and coupled to the second end of the first metal barrel by a screw joint, and a second end opened, the second metal barrel being moved axially relative to the first metal barrel upon a rotary motion; and a socket mounted in the first end of the second metal barrel and moved with the second metal barrel axially between a first position where the socket is coupled to the laser diode to compress the axially extended spring member and hold the laser diode in position, and a second position where the socket is released from the laser diode, enabling the laser diode to be oscillated with the axially extended spType: GrantFiled: December 4, 1998Date of Patent: February 15, 2000Inventor: Yuan Tsang Liu
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Patent number: 6024471Abstract: The present invention describes a compact flashlight comprising a power control means which provides a plurality of lighting functions. The flashlight includes: a case, a battery, a bezel or lens, a light module and a power control means. The power control means comprises an activator and an electrical controller. The light module incorporates a lamp. The power control means provides an activator for a user of the flashlight to energize the lamp to any intensity within a range of intensities the lamp will remain energized at a selected intensity without further effort of the user. The power control means additionally permits the user to momentarily energize the lamp and for the lamp to extinguish upon release of the rotary switch by the user. The activator includes a lockout means to prevent inadvertent activation of the flashlight. The activator further includes a seal means to prevent entrance of water into the flashlight.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 1997Date of Patent: February 15, 2000Inventor: Kevin McDermott
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Patent number: 6019482Abstract: A hand-held, self-contained irradiator is powered by batteries. At an applicator end are provided many diodes that emit electromagnetic radiation in the visible and/or infrared portions of the spectrum. A series of switches are provided so that the user may select which one or ones of the diodes to activate to provide particular wavelengths or colors of radiation to be emitted from the applicator end to be used to treat particular body surface areas for the relief of pain or other problems. An optional line cord powered embodiment is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 1998Date of Patent: February 1, 2000Inventor: Randall L. Everett
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Patent number: 6012823Abstract: A light pointer includes a housing defining a guiding slot in a longitudinal direction to retain a slide member therein. The housing has a front wall defining first and second through holes. An indicating light beam emitting unit is disposed in the housing and emits a light beam through the first through hole. The indicating light beam unit includes a beam emitting light source with first and second terminals, and a first switching member to control electrical connection between the beam emitting light source and the first terminal. The first switching member includes a switch body and a switch button. An illuminating light source illuminates light through the second through hole, and has third and fourth terminals. A second switch member controls electrical connection between the third terminal and one electrode of a power source, and includes a rear contact to connect with the power source, and a front contact disposed on the third terminal and spaced from both the switch button and the rear contact.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 1998Date of Patent: January 11, 2000Inventor: Hsuan-Sen Shiao
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Patent number: 6004004Abstract: A portable dual flashlight assembly includes a flexible and deformable elongated body member for wrapping and retaining the assembly around an object, a battery compartment mounted to each end of the body member and providing a source of electrical power at each end thereof, a light bulb enclosure mounted to each battery compartment, a light bulb mounted in each light bulb enclosure and generating a beam of light at one end of each battery compartment and a mechanism associated with each light bulb enclosure for switching each light bulb on and off. The deformable body member includes an elongated deformable member and a flexible tubular covering enclosing the deformable member. The flexible covering extends around and along the deformable member and has a longitudinal central channel receiving the wire therethrough.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 1996Date of Patent: December 21, 1999Assignee: Lumatec Industries, Inc.Inventors: Peter Altman, Velissa Van Scoyoc
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Patent number: 6004003Abstract: A portable lighting device according to the present invention includes a battery housing, a light source supported at a first end of the battery housing, and a shroud extending outward from the first end of the battery housing circumferentially around the light source. The shroud is preferably formed of a translucent material having a partially-reflective inner surface for reflecting a portion of incident light emitted from the light source in a forward direction while allowing a portion of the incident light to be transmitted through the shroud and dispersed in peripheral directions. The shroud further preferably includes a diffusing outer surface for diffusing the incident light that is transmitted through the shroud. A shroud is preferably integrally formed with a collar portion as used for threading the integrated head structure onto the battery housing. Additionally, a protective lens cover that may include a collimating lens is also integrally formed in this head structure.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 1997Date of Patent: December 21, 1999Assignee: Eveready Battery Company, Inc.Inventors: David R. Dalton, Peter F. Lynch
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Patent number: 6000811Abstract: A hanging emergency light assembly comprising a portable housing which includes a compartment for accommodating at least one battery for supplying electric power, and opposite first and second light emitting ends. The first light emitting end of the portable housing is provided with a strobe lamp and a red colored lens for emitting a red colored strobe light. The second light emitting end of the portable housing is provided with a high intensity light bulb and a clear lens for emitting blinking high intensity light. The hanging emergency light assembly further comprises first and second switches for independently activating and deactivating the strobe lamp and the high intensity light bulb, respectively.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 1998Date of Patent: December 14, 1999Inventor: John Joseph Bordak
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Patent number: 5975714Abstract: A renewable energy flashlight comprises a housing and a barrel located within the housing. The barrel has a wire coil wrapped around it, between the barrel and the housing. A magnet disposed within the barrel oscillates within the barrel when the barrel is shaken, generating an alternating current in the coil. Two springs at either end of the barrel cause the magnet to recoil when the magnet strikes the springs. An electronics assembly located within the housing includes a capacitor for storing charge, a rectifier connected to the capacitor, and means for conducting current flowing in the coil to the rectifier, to provide rectified current to the capacitor and charge the capacitor. A light emitting diode (LED) is connected to the capacitor by means of a switch, so the LED lights up when the switch is switched on.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 1998Date of Patent: November 2, 1999Assignee: Applied Innovative Technologies, IncorporatedInventors: Steven Robert Vetorino, James Victor Platt, Douglass Anderson Springer
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Patent number: 5967642Abstract: A flashlight which comprises a barrel for containing two battery cells, said barrel having opposite ends and an internal detent/recess, head and tail pieces provided at respective barrel ends, a light bulb enclosed by the head piece, and an on/off switch. The switch has a resiliently biassed projecting post and is provided inside the barrel at a position between and for switching on and off electrical connection between the light bulb and the battery cells. The post is arranged to engage automatically with the detent/recess in a snap-fit manner when the switch is moved into the barrel through one barrel end to the aforesaid position, thereby holding the switch in that position.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 1997Date of Patent: October 19, 1999Inventor: Si Fu Chiu
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Patent number: 5957566Abstract: A flashlight includes a barrel for containing a battery cell and having front and rear ends, a light bulb supported at the barrel front end, a head cap connected to the barrel front end for covering the light bulb, and a tail piece connected to the barrel rear end. The tail piece has an outer shape converging backwards to form a substantially pointed end such that the flashlight may be planted or stuck into a penetratable supporting surface for standing on its own.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 1997Date of Patent: September 28, 1999Inventor: Si Fu Chiu
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Patent number: 5951149Abstract: A laser generating apparatus which includes a laser holder holding a plurality of lenses decorated with different designs, the laser holder being turned with a rotary cap on one end of a barrel, which is mounted within a casing and holds a laser module, and set into one of a series of positions for permitting one particular lens to be retained in alignment with a laser firing hole on the laser module for producing a particular pattern of light spot.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 1997Date of Patent: September 14, 1999Assignee: Simpatico Industries Co., Ltd.Inventor: Roger Lee
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Patent number: RE37092Abstract: A guide plate on the head of the flashlight provides an alignment feature which aligns a pair of flashlight charging contacts with a pair of terminals in charging unit for releasably holding the flashlight in its charging receptacle. The flashlight is held within the charging receptacle in a consistent orientation, so that the flashlight switch may be easily found when the flashlight is grasped. The charging receptacle grips the head portion of the flashlight with a pair of spring-loaded jaws. A battery assembly is provided which presents both positive and negative terminals at the forward end of the battery unit. Connections are made from the forward end of the battery to an interconnection module within the flashlight head assembly.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 1997Date of Patent: March 13, 2001Assignee: Streamlight, Inc.Inventors: Raymond L. Sharrah, Charles W. Craft