With Switch Patents (Class 362/205)
  • Patent number: 8939602
    Abstract: Disclosed is a work light with convertible configurations. First is a light head mounted upon a stand with an extendable neck. The second is a flashlight. A third is presented when the neck is extended in the flashlight mode. The stand is ideally a tripod with legs collapsible into a central body to form the flashlight handle, a movable stop being provided to support the legs when deployed. A double linkage hinge is also provided the head and neck. Magnets may be applied at both the head and the end of an extendable retainer cap such that the work light may be used as an extendable pick up tool with the magnet in the head and it may be mounted solely by the magnet in the cap, even against the pull of gravity. The extendible retainer cap may also be utilized as an extra center leg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Inventor: Elmer A. Wessel
  • Patent number: 8911113
    Abstract: A laser pointer suitable for a touch display panel is provided. The laser pointer includes a main body, a laser diode and a wave plate. The main body has a containing space. The laser diode is disposed in the containing space and has a light emitting end. The wave plate is disposed on the light emitting end, wherein the laser diode is suitable for emitting a laser beam having linear polarization from the light emitting end, and the wave plate is suitable for transforming the laser beam having linear polarization into a laser beam having circular polarization, such that the laser beam is suitable for being an input signal for the touch display panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Assignee: Intergrated Digital Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Yang-Hui Chang, Shen-Tai Liaw, Nae-Jye Hwang
  • Patent number: 8905573
    Abstract: A portable light may comprise: a light body having a light source near one end for emitting light in a substantially transverse direction; a switch actuator near the end of the light body for controlling the light source; and a stowable hanger affixed to the light body near the end thereof. The light body may have an external opening and a given cross-sectional shape and size for receiving a light source module having an exterior of the given cross-sectional shape and size. The light source module may comprise: a light source, a reflector, a heat sink thermally coupled to the light source, a lens, reflector, and a lens ring holding the lens. The portable light may also comprise: a clip extending adjacent the light body in a longitudinal direction, wherein the clip is rotatably mounted so as to be movable about the light body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Streamlight, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond L. Sharrah, Matthew B. Dalton
  • Patent number: 8899777
    Abstract: Methods and devices are described that use one or more thermally responsive current-controlling elements to regulate current flow to an electrical component, particularly a light source such as an LED. Examples of such thermally responsive current-controlling elements include thermistors, inductors, and capacitors. for treating conditions or disorders which can be alleviated by reducing food intake are disclosed which comprise administration of an effective amount of a purine analog, alone or in conjunction with other compounds or compositions that affect satiety. The methods are useful for treating conditions or disorders wherein appetite reduction would be beneficial, including obesity and binge-eating disorder. Pharmaceutical compositions for use in the methods of the invention are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Underwater Kinetics, LLP
    Inventors: Alan K. Uke, Elmer Frederick Fischer, David M. Giuntoli, Richard H. Gunderson
  • Patent number: 8894234
    Abstract: A flashlight includes a receptacle receiving a processing device and a battery and a light controlling device, the processing device is coupled to the battery and the light controlling device, two light members are coupled to the light controlling device for generating flashlights of different colors, the processing device is coupled to the light members for generating the flashlights, a switch device is coupled to the battery for controlling the processing device to actuate the light members, a control button is coupled to the processing device for operating the light controlling device to operate the light members to generate the flashlights of different colors, and a stick is attachable to the receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Inventor: Sheng Kuang Kuo
  • Patent number: 8882292
    Abstract: A multi-spectrum emitting device includes one or more emitters configured to emit in a first spectrum and a second spectrum, a switching mechanism with at least two switching elements. configured to change an emitted light from a first spectrum to a second spectrum, and to change a blink pattern of emitted light. The first spectrum may be a non-visible light spectrum and the second spectrum may be a visible light spectrum. Devices may also include a unitary housing extending substantially upward and inward from a base of the device, the housing configured to emit light therethrough and to receive a power source for the device therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: S & S Precision, LLC
    Inventors: Johnny E. Swan, Michael Aaskov, Andrew C. Borland, David Rogers
  • Patent number: 8876340
    Abstract: A personal lighting device includes a first housing including a light projection portion including an inner threading and a first protrusion. It further includes a second housing including a lighting mechanism cavity, an outer threading, a second protrusion, and a third protrusion; the second and third protrusions having a first space and a second space between the second and third protrusion, the second housing interconnected with the first housing via the threading, the first protrusion having a first and second position, the first position between the second and third protrusion in the first space, and the second position in the second space. The personal lighting device further includes a battery, a printed circuit board, and a light emitting diode such that when the first protrusion is in the first position, the LED is not activated; and when the first protrusion is in the second position, the LED is activated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Nite Ize, Inc.
    Inventors: Parker S. Ellenburg, Howard S. Ellenburg, Barbara Kay Ellenburg
  • Patent number: 8870408
    Abstract: In a portable light and/or a light source adapter therefor, the open end of a light body has one or more features, and a light source includes an adapter base for being disposed in the open end of the light body. The adapter base has one or more features in an asymmetric pattern complementary to that of the features of the light body, so the adapter base seats in the light body only with the complementary features in a predetermined rotational relationship for mating. The light source may be connected to an electrical connection of the adapter base that mates with the electrical connection of the light body when the adapter base is seated in the predetermined rotational relationship for mating. The light source may preferably be retained in the light body by a retainer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Streamlight, Inc.
    Inventor: Raymond L. Sharrah
  • Publication number: 20140268713
    Abstract: A flashlight includes a battery compartment configured to alternatively receive a rechargeable battery or a non-rechargeable battery, a battery-type indicator located within the battery compartment, the indicator movable between a forward position and a rear position, wherein the indicator is biased to the rear position, and a switch that is closed by the indicator in the forward position, wherein the closed switch allows a battery inserted in the battery compartment to be recharged. With a rechargeable battery inserted in the battery compartment, the rechargeable battery engages the indicator and moves the indicator to the forward position, thereby closing the switch and allowing the rechargeable battery to be recharged while in the battery compartment. With a non-rechargeable battery inserted in the battery compartment, the indicator is in the rear position and the switch is not closed, thereby preventing the non-rechargeable battery from being recharged while in the battery compartment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Brian Matthew Unger, Mark Allen Neubauer
  • Patent number: 8833963
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a flashlight with a cylindrical housing and a battery cartridge housed therein so that at least one battery can be removably retained. In order to provide a flashlight in which a faulty slide switch can be fitted or replaced simply and without any extra cost, according to the invention a slide switch is proposed with a slide mounted movably on the housing and a switch lever arranged on the battery cartridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Zweibrueder Optoelectronics GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Rainer Opolka
  • Patent number: 8783908
    Abstract: A flashlight with light emitting diode (LED) sources that produce at least two different colors and at least two other activatable components. The colored LEDs and activatable components cycle on and off using two or three separate switches. One switch cycles preferably white LEDs on and off. Another switch preferably cycles between a non-white LEDs and two other activatable components and combinations thereof. The activatable components include strobes, sirens, GPS tracking, emergency calling, radio, weather notification, laser light, and light not visible to humans. A third switch disposed on the exterior surface(s) of the body that is operable to asynchronously cycle through the functions of the white light source, wherein the functions include blinking, strobe, pre-programmed varying visible intensity, and Morse code messages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: PowerTech, Inc.
    Inventors: Barbara R. Gross, Danny Joe Holmes
  • Publication number: 20140104822
    Abstract: A battery-conserving flashlight and method thereof are provided. The flashlight includes a body having a first end and a second end, the first end including an illumination source and the second end including an opening for accessing an interior of the body; at least one battery disposed in the body via the opening in the second end, the at least one battery coupled to and configured for powering the illumination source; and a controller disposed in the body configured to determine if the body is in motion, wherein if the body is not in motion for a predetermined period of time, the controller decouples the at least one battery from the illumination source to conserve energy in the at least one battery. Optionally, the flashlight may include a visual or audible indicator to alert a user that the flashlight will shutdown.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventor: Leigh M. Rothschild
  • Patent number: 8690379
    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 a housing assembly. Linear, or rotational, switch actuation element movement may be employed. A holder for the personal light is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Inventor: Robert L. Canella
  • Patent number: 8690378
    Abstract: Embodiments provide a flashlight with a bezel configured to be moved relative to a body of the flashlight to adjust the focus of the light. A locking assembly may be disposed within the bezel and configured to switch between an unlocked position and a locked position if the bezel is rotated with respect to the body. The locking assembly may include a ring-shaped outer component having first and second curved walls separated by a gap. The locking assembly may further include an inner component coupled with the light assembly, the inner component including a nub configured to be disposed in the gap if the locking assembly is in the unlocked position, and to radially push an outer surface of the outer component against the inner surface of the bezel if the locking assembly is in the locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Coast Cutlery Co.
    Inventors: Kam Fu Choo, Gregory David Windom
  • Publication number: 20140063791
    Abstract: In some embodiments, a flashlight may include a tubular body and a finger rotation feature disposed on the tubular body. In other embodiments, a flashlight accessory may include a flashlight connector to removably attach to a flashlight, a finger rotation feature, and a finger trigger to activate the flashlight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventor: Andrew G.C. Frazier
  • Patent number: 8662701
    Abstract: An electrical light or flashlight may comprise: a housing for receiving a battery; an electrical light source in the housing; an electrical switch including an electrically conductive flexible dome providing a switch contact; a controller for selectively energizing and de-energizing the electrical light source, wherein said controller is programmable responsive to closures or openings or both of the electrical switch, or to a time therebetween, or to continuous closure or opening thereof, or to a combination thereof, for operating the light source in predetermined operating states.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Streamlight, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond L. Sharrah, Peter J. Ziegenfuss, Mark W. Snyder
  • Patent number: 8646938
    Abstract: A portable distress light including a plurality of light emitting diodes (LED's) and a light mode switch to power the diodes so as to provide at least one of, and preferably at least two of, a flashing white light, a flashing infrared light, a flashing blue light, a flashing colored light, a steady colored light, and a steady white light. The LED's are segmented into two circuits, each circuit strobing the respective LED's, where the additive illumination of the LED's creates a single extended illumination period and a respective single dark period. The single extended illumination period can be generated by a series of quick illuminating cycles of the LED's of each of the two circuits, thus providing multiple illuminating pulses to create the single extended illumination period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Inventor: Morton Sunshine
  • Patent number: 8641227
    Abstract: The present invention provides an anti-pressing apparatus for flashlight, comprising a space provided on one end of the flashlight, a dialing piece inserted into a slot adjacent to the space, a pressing piece provided on a perforation having the dialing piece inserted therein, a restraining piece corresponding to an outer end of the pressing piece on the central perforation of the flashlight in order to restrain the pressing piece to move upward and downward only; whereby during use of the anti-pressing assembly of the flashlight, only the push portion of the dialing pieces is required to be dialed to another side to drive the blocker of the dialing piece to rotate to a lower position underneath the protruding section of the pressing piece in order to restrain the downward movement of the pressing piece and accidental pressing down on the power of the flashing can be prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Shih-Hao Wang
    Inventor: Hsueh-Chu Yeh
  • Patent number: 8628210
    Abstract: A portable light is disclosed including a housing having an upper end, a lower end and a cavity for receiving a power source therein. The housing further includes at the upper end a channel having channel walls and a plurality of LED lights in the channel. The channel walls have a height greater than the height of the LED lights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Walter R. Tucker Enterprises, Ltd.
    Inventors: Mark H. Tucker, Yalin Liu
  • Patent number: 8596812
    Abstract: A flashlight switching structure is provided. To turn on or off a flashlight, an annular element mounted around a neck of the flashlight is manually rotated, thereby driving a magnet connected to the annular element to a position where a reed switch connected to a positioning element in the flashlight is subjected to magnetic attraction of the magnet. Once the annular element is released, the restoring force of a resilient element pushes the magnet back in place. Hence, by rotating and releasing the annular element, the flashlight can be switched between predetermined lighting modes, such as a strong light, weak light, flashing, and turned off mode. When a protruding block connected to the outer periphery of the annular element is pushed downward and partially into a corresponding recess on the flashlight, the annular element is prevented from rotation, and the flashlight from being inadvertently triggered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Day Sun Industrial Corp.
    Inventor: Hsueh-Chu Yeh
  • Patent number: 8545044
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a flashlight with a flashlight casing and a push switch, latching switch or rotary switch contained in an end cap having a switch housing in which a first and a second contact engage. According to the invention, the first contact is a leaf spring engaging in direct electrical connection directly against the electrically conductive flashlight casing or directly against the electrically conductive end cap that is also detachably connected to the flashlight casing, the second contact being a bent leaf spring outside the switch housing directly connected to a power supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: Zweibrueder Optoelectronics GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Rainer Opolka
  • Publication number: 20130223050
    Abstract: An illumination lamp with integrated switch and alarm functions includes a main body (1), batteries (2), a conductive seat (3), a controller (4), a light source assembly (5), an end cover (6) and an alarm (8). The alarm (8) is disposed within the inner cavity of the end cover (6), and the housing of the alarm (8) slidably matches the inner cavity of the end cover (6). The alarm (8) is electrically connected to the controller (4). The bottom of the alarm (8) works together with a light-touch switch (7), and the top of the alarm (8) is an operation end. During use, the alarm (8) is pressed downwards to touch and activate the light-touch switch (7), thereby realizing lighting function or alarming function.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2010
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: GUANGDONG JETFAST PORTABLE LIGHTING CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Yun-Zhao Liu
  • Patent number: 8507819
    Abstract: A flashlight is described holding at least one battery and an illumination source. A circuit interruption and completion device is provided forming a complete circuit between the illumination source and the battery, when the device is in a closed mode. The device comprises a switch which is manually actuated between at least a first position which causes the device to enter the closed mode and a second position. A switch holding structure comprises a member with means for making an electrical connection associated with the member; and at least one conductive spring is attached to the member to make electrical contact with the means for making an electrical connection with the battery. The switch controls multiple functions of the flashlight including a strobe and a momentary mode. A pushbutton switch may control the multiple functions by multiple pushes on the switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Mag Instrument, Inc.
    Inventors: Darrell B. Steinicke, Kevin E. Collier, Bruce K. Bangerter, Greg W. Koch
  • Patent number: 8491151
    Abstract: A lighting device is generally illustrated having a light body having forward facing light sources including a visible white light source, visible colored light source and an infrared light source. Additionally, a side facing light source is provided. The light body also includes switches for activating the visible light sources and a three-position switch for activating the IR light source and the side facing light source. At least one switch is provided for turning at least one of the light sources on and off and further adjusting light intensity of the light source. The light source of the lighting device may further be controlled based on a detected chemistry composition of the power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: EVEREADY Battery Company, Inc.
    Inventor: David A. Spartano
  • Patent number: 8491152
    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: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Eveready Battery Company, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Dalton, John R. Brown, Timothy J. Rugendyke
  • Patent number: 8485686
    Abstract: A multi-spectrum emitting device including one or more emitters configured to emit in a first non-visible light spectrum and a second visible light spectrum, and a switching mechanism with at least two switching elements. The switching mechanism is configured to require simultaneous activation of the at least two switching elements in order to change emissions from the first spectrum to the second spectrum. A tactile feedback mechanism is included to provide different tactile feedback for different emission modes of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: S & S Precision, LLC
    Inventors: Johnny Swan, Andrew Borland, David Rogers, Michael Aaskov
  • Patent number: 8469540
    Abstract: A switch assembly that is utilized as a tail cap of a lighting device. The switch assembly comprises a depressible switch that allows the user to activate the lighting device. In an illustrative, non-limiting embodiment, the switch assembly has four channels, providing for at least three different light functions and a locking channel. Different channels are defined by the axial position of the rotatable portion relative to the lighting device body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Alliant Techsystems Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas M. Gregory, Robert A. Kincaid, Craig Adam Lamb, Birten L. Todd, Clifton L. Cook, Eric M. Yeates, Thomas A. Marx
  • Patent number: 8444291
    Abstract: An illuminating device has a transparent body including an electronic components section with at least one circuit board, at least one light emitting diode electrically connected to the at least one circuit board, and one or more switching mechanisms electrically connected to the at least one circuit board. The illuminating device is capable of activation, deactivation, and subsequent reactivation by manipulating the one or more switching mechanisms. A method of using the illuminating device, including activating, deactivating, and reactivating the illuminating device by manipulating one or more switching mechanisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: S&S Precision, LLC
    Inventors: Johnny E. Swan, Andrew C. Borland
  • Patent number: 8425077
    Abstract: An illuminating cosmetic applicator is revealed. The illuminating cosmetic applicator includes a cosmetic applicator part, a connector, and a lighting unit. The cosmetic applicator part is made from a transparent material. One end of the connector is connected to the cosmetic applicator part while the other end thereof is mounted with the lighting unit. The lighting unit consists of a light gathering cover mounted in a housing, and a light emitting element in the light gathering cover. Batteries are received in the housing. Moreover, a groove mounted with a switch is arranged at the housing. A block is connected to the inner side of the switch. Thereby light is emitted through the cosmetic applicator part while applying cosmetics in a dark place. Furthermore, the lighting unit can be separated with the cosmetic applicator part and used for illumination independently. The illuminating cosmetic applicator has more practical value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Li Shin Tai Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chien-Lin Wu
  • Patent number: 8425078
    Abstract: Various lighting devices and related methods are provided. In one example, a portable lighting device includes a light source, lighting control circuitry, a body, and a tailcap assembly attached to an end of the body. The tailcap assembly includes a multi-position joystick adapted to pivot relative to the body in response to lateral pressure and move vertically relative to the body in response to vertical pressure. The tailcap assembly also includes switches adapted to provide signals to the lighting control circuitry in response to pivot movement and vertical movement of the joystick. The lighting control circuitry is adapted to operate the light source in response to the signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: SureFire, LLC
    Inventors: John W. Matthews, Ammar Burayez, Luis M. Sanchez, William A. Hunt, Michael D. Picciotta, Andrew Castañeda
  • Patent number: 8427077
    Abstract: Various lighting devices and related methods are provided. In one example, a portable lighting device includes a light source, lighting control circuitry, first and second power terminals adapted to receive a battery power source, first and second electrical connections between the lighting control circuitry and the first and second power terminals, a third electrical connection between the second power terminal and the lighting control circuitry, and a switch adapted to selectively connect and disconnect the third electrical connection. The lighting control circuitry is adapted to operate the light source in response to a signal received over the third electrical connection in response to the switch. The first and second electrical connections are adapted to provide constant power to the lighting control circuitry while the battery power source is connected to the first and second power terminals regardless of operation of the switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: SureFire, LLC
    Inventors: John W. Matthews, William A. Hunt
  • Publication number: 20130094194
    Abstract: A multi-mode portable illumination device includes a switch structure featuring a substantially planar member and a mechanical switch which requires a relatively small amount of force and a short stroke distance to actuate. The mechanical switch is attached to a member which contains circuit(s) adding additional functionality to the multi-mode portable illumination device. 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 multi-mode portable illumination device which has been provided with an electrically resistive protective coating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2012
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Inventors: Greg W. Koch, Bruce K. BANGERTER, Kevin E. COLLIER, Darrell B. STEINICKE
  • Publication number: 20130094197
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a flashlight with a cylindrical housing and a battery cartridge housed therein so that at least one battery can be removably retained. In order to provide a flashlight in which a faulty slide switch can be fitted or replaced simply and without any extra cost, according to the invention a slide switch is proposed with a slide mounted movably on the housing and a switch lever arranged on the battery cartridge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2011
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Inventor: Rainer Opolka
  • Patent number: 8419208
    Abstract: A packaged article comprising in combination the article retained within packing having at least a portion by which the article may be visually observed; wherein the article has (i) operation means to effect operations of a desired function of the article; and (ii) control means by which the packing operation means is controlled and the packing allows of access to the control means to effect operation of said operation means to produce the desired function. As a result, the desired function of the article can be tested and seen by a potential purchaser even though the article is still sealed in its package.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Tech 4 Kids, Inc.
    Inventors: Bradley D. Pedersen, Kyle Jeffs
  • Patent number: 8414142
    Abstract: A portable light is disclosed including a housing having an upper end, a lower end and a cavity for receiving a power source therein. The housing further includes at the upper end a channel having channel walls and a plurality of LED lights in the channel. The channel walls have a height greater than the height of the LED lights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Walter R. Tucker Enterprises, Ltd.
    Inventors: Mark H. Tucker, Yalin Liu
  • Patent number: 8403521
    Abstract: A structurally improved flashlight includes a handle coupled to a main body at a bottom of the main body. The handle has a trigger assembled between a pair of housing parts. The trigger is formed with a zigzag room that is communicated with openings formed at two laterals of the trigger for accommodating a safety mechanism. A magnet provided at an upper surface of the trigger is to removably engage a reed switch installed on the flashlight main body. A spring is deposited between the trigger and the two housing parts, so as to enable the trigger to resiliently move to and fro. The trigger is for conveniently switching the flashlight among different illumination phases, such as light intensity, blinking and on/off status. The structurally improved flashlight is also designed to be held in a certain illumination phase temporarily, so as to prevent unintentional change of the set illumination phase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Inventor: Ching-Hsiang Wang
  • Patent number: 8395066
    Abstract: A flashlight is described comprising a flashlight body comprising a tube with a first end and a second end, the tube configured to hold at least one battery; a bulb holder for holding an illumination source at the first end of the tube; and a circuit interruption and completion device forming a complete circuit between the illumination source and the battery, when the device is in a closed mode, the device comprising a pushbutton switch which is manually actuated between at least a first closed mode and a second mode. The switch controls multiple functions of the flashlight. The switch requires at least one of a force of less than about 1000 gf and a stroke of less than 4 mm to be operably actuated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Mag Instrument, Inc.
    Inventors: Greg W. Koch, Bruce K. Bangerter, Kevin E. Collier, Darrell B. Steinicke
  • Patent number: 8388169
    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: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignees: Eveready Battery Company, Inc., Streamlight, Inc.
    Inventors: John D. Crawford, Thomas D. Boris
  • Patent number: 8382313
    Abstract: An electric torch (10) includes a main body (1), a head assembly (2), and a rear assembly (3) releasably engaged with a rear end of the main body. The rear assembly includes a rear cover (31) for enclosing an electrically conductive spring (315), an electrically conductive cathode plate (314), and a magnetic controlled member (313, 318) therein. The spring is electrically engaged between negative terminal (152) of the battery pack and the cathode plate. The magnetic controlled member is disposed between the cathode plate and rear end of the rear cover, and can divert electric current flows in the torch under an attractive force of a magnet. The main body and the rear cover are electrically conductive, and given an electrically nonconductive surface treatment except for certain areas (11-13, 3111-3112, 3121, 3121?, 3122) for electrically connection. The torch is waterproof and multifunctional.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Inventor: Shek Hung Fok
  • Patent number: 8382312
    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: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignees: Eveready Battery Company, Inc., Streamlight, Inc.
    Inventors: John D. Crawford, Thomas D. Boris
  • Patent number: 8376574
    Abstract: A lighting device in the form of a handheld flashlight includes a plurality of light sources, a housing, a three-position switch, and a second switch. The plurality of light sources may include a visible light source and a non-visible light source. The three-position switch selects one of a plurality of modes, for example, a visible light enabled mode, an infrared mode, and a lockout mode. The second switch is operative to control one of the plurality of light sources based on the selected operating mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Eveready Battery Company, Inc.
    Inventors: David A. Spartano, Frank F. Huang, Mark A. Ferguson, Thomas I. Meyers
  • Patent number: 8376568
    Abstract: A rechargeable flashlight electrically charged by a cigar jack includes a body unit and a head unit. The body unit includes a charging terminal connected to an external power of a car by a cigar jack, a rechargeable battery connected to the charging terminal and charged by the cigar jack, and a contact pin connected to the charging terminal and an electrode of the rechargeable battery. The head unit includes a circuit board having a circuit pattern contacting the contact pin and a light source connected to the circuit pattern and irradiating a light, and rotatablely couples on a front end of the body unit. The circuit pattern selectively contacts with the contact pin according to the rotation of the head unit so that the rechargeable battery is charged, and the light source is turned on or turned off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Aitec Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Seon-Soo Kim
  • Patent number: 8376570
    Abstract: A portable illumination system comprising distal and proximal members rotatably coupled to one another. The rotatable coupling between the members includes resistive rotational feedback across a plurality of independent rotational regions between the members. A rotational switching mechanism is configured to switch between an activated state and a deactivated state. The activated state includes an electrical coupling between an electrical power source and an electro-optical output device across a plurality of independent rotational regions between the members. The plurality of independent rotational regions of the activated state corresponds to a linear or lengthwise alignment between the distal activated indicator and the activated proximal indicator. The plurality of independent rotational regions of the resistive rotational feedback may be coordinated with the plurality of independent rotational regions of the activated state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Tactical Lighting Solutions, LLC
    Inventors: Douglas Kennedy, Greg Kennedy
  • Patent number: 8376571
    Abstract: Improvements in an emergency switch for an end cap flashlight that allows conducting power to the light source by applying side or rotational force on the end caps of the flashlight. The cap is designed to give faster and more convenient access to light in an emergency, or when needed. The end cap connects to the inner conductor with a castled shape that allows the conductors to be moved in or out alignment to allow or prevent contact. The gasket or washer provides insulation and spacing of the conductors. Side forces on the end cap overcome the spacing of the washer to make electrical contact. The end cap may also support a glass breaking device. The glass breaker is a hardened tip on the end of the cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: Steven Michael Rorick
  • Patent number: 8366290
    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: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Mag Instrument, Inc.
    Inventor: Anthony Maglica
  • Patent number: 8360598
    Abstract: An electrical light or flashlight may comprise: a housing for receiving a battery; an electrical light source in the housing; an electrical switch including an electrically conductive flexible dome providing a switch contact; a controller for selectively coupling electrical power from a battery to the electrical light source, responsive to the electrical switch for selectively energizing and de-energizing the electrical light source, wherein said controller is programmable responsive to closures or openings or both of the electrical switch, or to a time therebetween, or to continuous closure or opening thereof, or to a combination thereof, for operating the light source in predetermined operating states, and wherein the light source is selectively energizable and de-energizable in predetermined operating states responsive to the electrical switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Streamlight, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond L. Sharrah, Peter J. Ziegenfuss, Mark W. Snyder
  • Publication number: 20130016502
    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: August 27, 2012
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Applicant: EVEREADY BATTERY COMPANY, INC.
    Inventors: David R. Dalton, John R. Brown, Timothy J. Rugendyke
  • Patent number: 8348454
    Abstract: A flashlight having a handle with a clamp integrated therein, so that the flashlight can be used in either hands-free or in a portable mode. The handle of the flashlight can comprise clamp arms that are biased in a closed position, and can form a clamp, which can be affixed to an object. A battery housing can be disposed between the clamp arms, or one or both of the clamp arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Blackbeam LLC
    Inventors: Louis F. Henry, Justin Cohen
  • Patent number: 8317357
    Abstract: An electronic lighting instrument features separate optical assemblies for flood lighting and spot lighting. The optical assemblies include primary, secondary, and tertiary optical elements. The housing of the instrument features a trilobal cross section and includes dust-and-moisture-sealed push buttons and lenses as part of the housing construction. Self-aligning assemblies to ensure correct electrical and mechanical assembly are provided. The housing also self-aligns with a mating docking station for recharging the instrument batteries in situ. The lighting instrument may be controlled by a microprocessor circuit to provide floodlight and spotlight beams and several operational states thereof depending on the need for illumination or signaling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Bayco Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Bijan Bayat, Mark W. Kempter, James L. Newton
  • Publication number: 20120268926
    Abstract: A flashlight is described holding at least one battery and an illumination source. A circuit interruption and completion device is provided forming a complete circuit between the illumination source and the battery, when the device is in a closed mode. The device comprises a switch which is manually actuated between at least a first position which causes the device to enter the closed mode and a second position. A switch holding structure comprises a member with means for making an electrical connection associated with the member; and at least one conductive spring is attached to the member to make electrical contact with the means for making an electrical connection with the battery. The switch controls multiple functions of the flashlight including a strobe and a momentary mode. A pushbutton switch may control the multiple functions by multiple pushes on the switch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2012
    Publication date: October 25, 2012
    Inventors: Darrell B. Steinicke, Kevin E. Collier, Bruce K. Bangerter, Greg W. Koch