With Switch Patents (Class 362/205)
  • Patent number: 8292454
    Abstract: An illuminated inflator for inserting into the neck of a balloon includes a gas-tight flange having a periphery, a center, and upper and lower surfaces. A filler tube has upper and lower ends and extends through the flange, with the lower end of the filler tube extending below the lower surface the flange and the upper end of the filler tube extending above the upper surface of the flange. A one-way valve is in flow communication with the filler tube. A light assembly includes a power source and at least one light element electrically connected to the power source. The light assembly is operably mounted to the flange at the upper surface thereof. A switch is operably connected to the power source and the at least one light element for providing power to and isolating power from the at least one light element. The inflator is inserted into the balloon with the flange in the neck of the balloon defining a pressure region boundary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Chemical Light, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael L. Schrimmer
  • Patent number: 8282233
    Abstract: A compact flashlight that allows a user to view documents in a dark situation without having to hold a flashlight. The pocket light fits easily over the top of the pocket and can be covered by a conventional pocket flap. The light is an LED display device that produces a significant amount of light so a user can check identification or documentation, as in a license check, or registration verification for police. The pocket light has a push button power switch that can be activated by the user through the fabric of their shirt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Inventor: Brian Quittner
  • Patent number: 8277076
    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: February 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Eveready Battery Company, Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Dalton, John R. Brown, Timothy Rugendyke
  • Patent number: 8262248
    Abstract: Disclosed is a work light with two convertible configurations. The first configuration is a light mounted upon a stand with an extendable neck. The second is a flashlight. A third, intermediate configuration is presented when the neck is extended in the flashlight mode. The light head has a standard twist switch and a key interface with the body to maintain a lower portion of the head in a stationary position relative to the body when in the work light is in the flashlight configuration. The stand is 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 and hold the legs, along with the body, when stowed in the flashlight configuration. A double linkage hinge is also provided the head and neck for allowing motion of the head relative the remainder of the work light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Inventor: Elmer A. Wessel
  • Patent number: 8240874
    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: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Mag Instrument, Inc.
    Inventors: Greg W. Koch, Bruce K. Bangerter, Kevin E. Collier, Darrell B. Steinicke
  • Patent number: 8220950
    Abstract: A portable distress light including a plurality of light emitting diodes and a light mode switch to power the diodes so as to provide a flashing white light, a flashing infrared light, a flashing blue light and a steady white light. Status indicators are included on the device to correspondingly identify the operative mode selected. The light emitting diodes include top-emitting diodes and side-emitting diodes that are arranged on a printed circuit board in a variety of configurations to provide an optimum light pattern. Exemplary configurations include positioning the light emitting diodes into a triangular pattern, and a square or rectangular pattern. The distress device further includes a variety of reflectors that are disposed over the light emitting diodes to provide a horizontally dispersed light pattern. An operating circuit provides the benefit of a delay period between mode selections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Inventor: Morton Sunshine
  • Patent number: 8215790
    Abstract: A light-emitting product (for example, a flashlight) includes a first housing includes a light source for emitting light and a lens system that is adjustable in position relative to the light source. The second housing can be attached to the first housing and includes a power source for the light source. When the first housing and the second housing are attached, the first housing and the second housing can be moved relative to each other to adjust the position of the lens system relative to the position of the light source to focus the light from the light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: The Gillette Company
    Inventors: Bryan L. Hesse, John Rotondo, Michael L. O'Banion, Joseph Paul, David Mathieu
  • Patent number: 8210710
    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: December 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Mag Instrument, Inc.
    Inventors: Greg W. Koch, Bruce K. Bangerter, Kevin E. Collier, Darrell B. Steinicke
  • Patent number: 8197085
    Abstract: A lighting device embodied as a flashlight is provided that includes a handheld housing and a light source provided on the housing for generating a light beam. The light device also includes a battery power source for providing power to the light source. The lighting device further includes light control circuitry for turning the light source on and off and controlling intensity of the light beam. The light control circuitry includes a user actuatable switch and a controller for controlling intensity of the generated light beam. The controller processes user activation of the switch and adjusts the intensity of the light beam as a function of the activation of the switch such that the light intensity may be increased or decreased.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Eveready Battery Company, Inc.
    Inventor: David A. Spartano
  • Patent number: 8182109
    Abstract: Various lighting device implementations and related methods may be used to selectively provide various types of light in response to user-actuated controls. In one example, a lighting device includes a plurality of light sources, a body, a head, and one or more controls adapted to adjust operation of the light sources. The body includes a housing. The head includes a bezel adapted to rotate relative to the body to select between at least a first one of the light sources and a second one of the light sources. The head also includes a lens adapted to rotate eccentrically relative to a centerline of the head in response to rotation of the bezel. The lens includes a light inlet adapted to be selectively positioned over the first light source, the second light source, or neither of the light sources as the lens rotates eccentrically relative to the centerline of the head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: SureFire, LLC
    Inventors: John W. Matthews, Michael D. Picciotta, William Wells
  • Patent number: 8179532
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are set forth for monitoring lamp condition, comprising directing a beam of light at the lamp, detecting percent transmission of the beam through the lamp, wherein the percent transmission is indicative of lamp blackening, and repeating the directing and detecting of the beam of light periodically to provide an indication of lamp blackening over time, wherein the lamp blackening thereby provides an indication of lamp condition over time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Christie Digital Systems USA, Inc.
    Inventor: John Parkin
  • Publication number: 20120099301
    Abstract: Provided is an improved flashlight structure applicable to a flashlight for use at special sites. The flashlight structure includes a press switch whose protruding end is constantly received in a recessed area. Therefore, should the flashlight be dropped, with the press switch facing down, the press switch will not be pressed inward (and hence turned on or off) by accident. Also, the flashlight structure includes a partition plate for separating batteries in the flashlight and preventing the batteries from overheating due to close contact. A lighting unit connected to the open end of the flashlight structure is peripherally provided with ribs of different widths for engaging with the corresponding slots and thus positioning the lighting unit properly. An annular isolation portion in the middle section of the press switch is tightly engaged with the inner periphery of an end hole of the flashlight structure to prevent entry of external moisture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2010
    Publication date: April 26, 2012
    Inventor: Ching-Hsiang Wang
  • Patent number: 8147089
    Abstract: Various structures are provided that may be advantageously used in one or more illumination device designs. In one example, a lens is movable among a plurality of light sources to facilitate selection of which light source is used to provide light for the illumination device. In another example, electric power is provided only to the light source that is used to provide light for the illumination device. Rotation of a bezel of the light source can determine which light sources provides light for the light source and which light source receives electric power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: SureFire, LLC
    Inventors: John W. Matthews, Michael D. Picciotta, William Wells
  • Patent number: 8148917
    Abstract: A flashlight in accordance with an aspect of the invention includes an ID module for generating an ID signal indicative of a power mode of the flashlight. In an aspect, the flashlight mates with a removable battery pack that regulates at least one of an output voltage and output current in accordance with the ID signal. In an aspect, the flashlight includes a printed circuit board (PCB) on which the ID module is mounted. In an aspect, the flashlight includes a soft-start module and a bulb, wherein the soft start module increases power to the bulb at a controlled rate when the flashlight is turned on. In an aspect, the flashlight includes a lamp housing having a lens retained by a bezel. The lens includes an axially extending peripheral edge. In an aspect, the flashlight includes a main housing having a lamp housing. A mounting mechanism and mating features are adapted to selectively couple and decouple the main housing and the lamp housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Hilt, Bradley J. Mealy, David A. Carrier, Andrew E. Seman, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8147090
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: MAG Instrument, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen Joseph Halasz, Christopher Lee Halasz, Stephen Sandor Halasz
  • Patent number: 8147088
    Abstract: A focusing-type flashlight structure includes a hollow cylinder body for accommodating the power supply component and screwed with an exterior cap having the switch device at the rear side and having a buckle channel and a protrusion stop ring and forming the diameter expansion section; a light emitting device positioned between the buckle channel and the protrusion stop ring of the hollow cylinder body; a light transparent cover for sealing the front side of the hollow cylinder body and having a protrusion hook for clasping with the buckle channel to achieve the positioning; and a zooming device including a hollow tube having a first, second, and third ring section with converged diameters from the front to the rear in order, and a lens disposed between the first ring section of the hollow tube, and a light opening cover to achieve the positioning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Inventors: Yu-Liang Chen, Tang-Fang Lai
  • Patent number: 8128255
    Abstract: A structure for securing a conductive strip of a flashlight includes a flashlight main body formed therein with a receiving space for receiving batteries. The receiving space has a lateral surface formed with a groove whose cross-section tapers toward the center of the receiving space and is configured for receiving the conductive strip coupled to a switch assembly, along with an insulating element corresponding in width to the conductive strip and having a predetermined length. Once installed in the flashlight main body, the conductive strip is separated from the batteries in the receiving space, thereby preventing the batteries from overheating, which might otherwise result from direct contact with the conductive strip. The main body further has a rear end coupled with a pressing portion formed of a pliable material such that a switch of the switch assembly is switched on or off by pressing the pressing portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Day Sun Industrial Corp.
    Inventor: Hsueh-Chu Yeh
  • Patent number: 8113682
    Abstract: A lighting device comprises an elongated assembly forming a water-tight chamber adjacent a first end of the lighting device, where the first end includes a transparent face along a long axis of the elongated assembly. A lighting module, having a first light source and a second light source positioned on opposite ends of the lighting module, is positioned within the water-tight chamber so that the first light source is adjacent to and is configured to project light out the transparent face in a first direction along the long axis of the elongated assembly. The second light source is configured to illuminate along an elongated portion of the elongated assembly, where the elongated portion extends from the water-tight chamber in a second direction along the long axis of the elongated assembly opposite from the first direction, and out translucent circumferential sides of the elongated portion. A button on the module allows one to selectively alternate between the first and second light sources.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Life+Gear, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis Bertken
  • Patent number: 8087797
    Abstract: An illumination device includes independent light sources and pivotable legs. In an embodiment, each independent light source includes a head having an illumination element; a body; a power source holder configured to receive a power source for powering the illumination element; a switch configured to control the independent light source; and an electrical circuit configured to place the independent light source and at least one other independent light source in an electrically coupled state. The switch may be configured to control an illumination state of both the independent light source and the at least one other independent light source when in the electrically coupled state. The illumination provided by the illumination device may be adjusted to different angles with respect to a longitudinal axis of the illumination device by rotating each of the plurality of pivotable heads. The pivotable legs are movable between a retracted configuration and an expanded configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: Stanley Black & Decker, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Pelletier, Brian McNeill, Robert St. John, Joshua Brown, David Ross
  • Patent number: 8066402
    Abstract: Work light has LEDs that may require heatsink. Desired radiation pattern achieved by using optical components designed to produce beam or LEDs may have beams in different directions. Radiation pattern of LEDs may be changed by refractive-reflective optics or by convex lenses. Convex lenses may be hemispheres, other planoconvex shapes, concavo-convex shapes, or other shapes. Curved surfaces on any lenses may be spherical or aspheric. Ballast to operate the LEDs from line voltage AC or low voltage DC. Work light may contain batteries. The work light may be mounted on a stand. May have accessory mount. May have charging station. May have a paging transmitter to activate a paging receiver in work light. May have openings for heat transfer from heatsink to ambient air external to light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: Brasscorp Limited
    Inventor: Donald L. Klipstein
  • Patent number: 8061866
    Abstract: An automatic luminous device whose use does not require an external manual switch, which is substituted by another internal automatic switch, which activates the device only when it is placed on a sufficiently dense metal surface, nor does it require a connecting cable to an external power source, which is replaced by a preferably rechargeable battery. It was designed as an emergency light for police vehicles, and as a back-up light and is fitted with a base or casing (1) and a translucent shade (2), which, when coupled together, form a single body. Externally, the base of the casing (1) is fitted with two or more permanent magnets (3) in order to block the said casing (1), when it is placed on a sufficiently dense metal platform (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Torre & Torre Innovacion, S.L.
    Inventors: Luis Carlos Torre Sarmiento, Julio César Gonzalez Alvarez
  • Patent number: 8052297
    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 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Inventors: Barbara R. Gross, Danny J. Holmes
  • Patent number: 8033680
    Abstract: A flashlight with a rotatable lamp head is provided. The lamp head pivots about two cylindrical coaxial electrical connectors. The lamp head includes a reflector having a concave curved reflective surface and two lamp elements therein. A focusing ring on the lamp head moves the reflector in the lamp head for adjusting the focus of the light produced by the flashlight. The flashlight also includes a series of fluid-tight seals to insure that the flashlight is waterproof and a one-way flapper valve allows release of gases produced by the batteries and prevents fluid from entering the flashlight. A battery charger is also provided to recharge a battery pack for the flashlight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Streamlight, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond L. Sharrah, John C. DiNenna, Charles W. Craft
  • Patent number: 8021012
    Abstract: An assembly for doorway illumination, the doorway having a door jamb and a door, the assembly for doorway illumination including an electrical circuit having first, second, and third electrical switches, the first and second electrical switches, upon closure of the third electrical switch, being electrically parallel to each other, and the first and second electrical switches, upon opening of the third electrical switch, being electrically isolated from each other; a base supporting the first switch; a door contacting spring biased push button adapted for alternatively closing and opening the first electrical switch; an electric torch including the second electrical switch; a plurality of “C” clips adapted for alternatively attaching and releasing the electric torch to and from the base; and a plurality of electrical contacts adapted for, upon the alternative torch attaching and releasing, alternatively closing and opening the third electrical switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Inventor: Tracy Dunbar
  • Publication number: 20110216533
    Abstract: A lighting device including an elongate illuminated portion having translucent side walls spaced about a long axis of the illuminated portion. The device further includes a light source configured to direct light along a length of the illuminated portion and out the translucent side walls. An actuator extends in a biased position oppositely from the light source in a deactivated position. A circuit is electrically coupled between the actuator and light source for activating the light to a first lighting function for so long as the actuator is moved to a compressed position, detecting the actuator being moved back to its biased position, and activating the light to a second lighting function for so long as the actuator is moved back to the compressed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2010
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Applicant: LIFE+GEAR, INC.
    Inventor: Dennis Bertken
  • Patent number: 7997756
    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: February 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Inventor: Steven Michael Rorick
  • Patent number: 7997755
    Abstract: A flashlight assembly includes an outer housing, an inner housing received in the outer housing, a cover partially received in the outer housing, and a base disposed in a top of the outer housing. The base has a protrusion extended into the inner housing via the outer housing. The base has two side grooves respectively defined in a lateral of the protrusion. The inner housing has two male projections. The cover has two female recesses. Each male projection engages with one of the two female recesses. The cover has two side protrusions. Each side protrusion engages with one of the two side grooves. The outer housing, the inner housing, the cover, and the base are firmly assembled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Inventors: Su-Chang Liao, Di-Shun Liao
  • Patent number: 7984998
    Abstract: A small flashlight includes a main body, a rotatable member that is about half as long as the main body and has an LED mounted proximate its distal end, the flashlight not having a separate lens covering the LED. The main body is thinner than it is long and wide, and the rotatable member is thinner than it is long and wide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Inventor: Brian Quittner
  • Publication number: 20110157882
    Abstract: Disclosed is a work light with two convertible configurations. The first configuration is a light mounted upon a stand with an extendable neck. The second is a flashlight. A third, intermediate configuration is presented when the neck is extended in the flashlight mode. The light head has a standard twist switch and a key interface with the body to maintain a lower portion of the head in a stationary position relative to the body when in the work light is in the flashlight configuration. The stand is 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 and hold the legs, along with the body, when stowed in the flashlight configuration. A double linkage hinge is also provided the head and neck for allowing motion of the head relative the remainder of the work light.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 24, 2009
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Inventor: Elmer A. Wessel
  • Patent number: 7967467
    Abstract: A portable lighting device that is lightweight and features a space-efficient design includes a body containing a Lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery. The body includes a pair of pivot arms that are spaced from one another. A lamp assembly includes a lamp assembly housing containing a light source that is powered by the Li-ion battery. The lamp assembly housing is pivotally connected to each of the pair of pivot arms and positioned there between. A handle includes a gripping portion that is spaced from the body so that a gripping space is defined between the gripping portion of the handle and the body. A removable bumper pad is positioned on the bottom of the body. The portable lighting device features recesses on opposite sides that are engaged by corresponding tabs on a charging rack. This prevents non-compatible lighting devices from being positioned on the charging rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Koehler-Bright Star, Inc.
    Inventors: John Devaney, Mark Dirsa
  • Patent number: 7959317
    Abstract: A lighting device in the form of a handheld flashlight is provided that includes a plurality of light sources. The lighting device also has a tail cap that engages the main body by way of a cam lock wheel to provide a closure to the battery compartment. A ribbon having four traces couples a bottom switch and negative contacts to control circuitry. The lighting device further includes multiple modes of operation having a plurality of switches that provide control in various lighting modes. The lighting device is configured to be powered by one number of batteries supplying a first voltage output and is configured to be powered by a second different number of batteries supplying a second different voltage output, and the batteries are installed in battery compartments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: Eveready Battery Company, Inc.
    Inventors: David A Spartano, Frank F Huang, Waikwong Lam
  • Patent number: 7950820
    Abstract: A lighting device (100) includes a housing (100), a battery receiving region (108), an active electrical circuit (202), and a light source (118). The active electrical circuit (202) uses energy from batteries (110) received in the batter receiving region (110) of the flashlight (100) to power the light source (118). The electrical circuitry of the flashlight (110) is energy limited so that the flashlight is intrinsically safe for use in hazardous locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: Eveready Battery Company, Inc.
    Inventors: David A. Spartano, Peter F. Hoffman
  • Publication number: 20110122611
    Abstract: A flashlight switching circuit includes a casing, a power source in the casing having a pair of poles, a light source connected to one of the poles, and a switch carried on the casing. The switch has a housing, first and second contacts with respective inner ends inside the housing and respective outer ends outside the housing and formed as leaf springs, and an actuation element movable on the housing for connecting together the inner ends in a closed position of the switch and disconnecting them from each other in an open position of the switch. The leaf-spring part of the first contact is connected to the light source. The leaf-spring part of the second contact bears directly on the other of the poles so that in the closed position the switch connects the light source between the poles and energizes it.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2010
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Inventor: RAINER OPOLKA
  • Patent number: 7938556
    Abstract: The present invention provides a compact portable light source capable of providing powerful light as well as effect light and is especially suitable for professional use, i.e. for security, police and military use. The invention relates to a portable torch having a plurality of light emitting diodes and a heat sink, namely a portable torch (1) comprising a case (2) having a first and a second open ends, a first cap (3) covering the first open end and a second cap (4) covering the second open end, said first cap having a transparent area (6), illumination means having a diode area (11) comprising a plurality of light emitting devices (LEDs) arranged to emit light out of the first open end and through the transparent area (6) of the first cap (3), a heat sink (14) arranged to transport heat from the light emitting devices, a power source comprising a battery holder and means (7) for activating said power source operatively associated with said case (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Assignee: Wiseled APS
    Inventor: Flemming Dahlin
  • Publication number: 20110103048
    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: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2009
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Inventors: Greg Kennedy, Douglas Kennedy
  • Patent number: 7934849
    Abstract: A lamp unit includes a base having a Reed switch, a telescopic stem extending upwardly from the base, a light source fitted at the top of the step, and a rechargeable battery fitted around the stem and below the light source. A docking station includes one or more magnets, an upstanding ring, and positive and negative contacts disposed in the center of the upstanding ring. The base of the lamp unit defines an aperture configured to be positioned over the circular ring so that the lamp unit may rotate on the docking station. Rotation of the lamp on the docking station is arranged such that the magnets actuate the Reed switch for turning the light source ON or OFF.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: Neoz Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Peter John Ellis, Chi Kin Chan
  • Publication number: 20110096538
    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: December 17, 2010
    Publication date: April 28, 2011
    Inventors: Greg W. Koch, Bruce K. Bangerter, Kevin E. Collier, Darrell B. Steinicke
  • Patent number: 7914169
    Abstract: A light-emitting product (for example, a flashlight) includes a first housing includes a light source for emitting light and a lens system that is adjustable in position relative to the light source. The second housing can be attached to the first housing and includes a power source for the light source. When the first housing and the second housing are attached, the first housing and the second housing can be moved relative to each other to adjust the position of the lens system relative to the position of the light source to focus the light from the light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: The Gillette Company
    Inventors: Bryan L. Hesse, John Rotondo, Michael L. O'Banion, Joseph Paul, David Mathieu
  • Publication number: 20110057583
    Abstract: An electronic simulation candle comprises a housing, one or more lamps supported by the housing and having a first operative state providing a first color illumination and a second operative state providing a second color of illumination, and a manual switch connected to complete a circuit with the battery and thereby energize the one or more lamps in one of the first and second operative states. A transceiver is associated with the housing and has an antenna suitable for receiving a first code and responding to the first code by transmitting a second code. A circuit coupled to the transceiver, such as circuitry or code executing in a processor, responds to receipt of either the first code or the second code to selectively generate a gate signal. A code responsive switch is driven by the gate signal to change the first operative state to the second operative state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventor: Anthony Fattizzi
  • Patent number: 7896518
    Abstract: A flashlight with light emitting diode (LED) sources that produce at least three different colors. The colored LEDs cycle on and off using two separate switches. One switch cycles preferably white LEDs on and off. Another switch preferably cycles from red LEDs being on to green or blue LEDs being on to off and combinations thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: PowerTech, Inc.
    Inventors: Danny J. Holmes, Barbara R. Gross
  • Patent number: 7866841
    Abstract: A flashlight is provided with an end cap which carries an axially-actuated switch for turning the flashlight on and off with a convenient one-handed operation. The switch is designed with a latching function and a mode selection function which can be cycled through high, low and strobed light outputs with a partial throw of the switch. Cut-out portions are provided in the end cap for guiding a user's finger toward the switch and away from the sidewalls of the end cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Inventors: Glenn Bushee, Jonathan Neal
  • Patent number: 7862193
    Abstract: A compact flashlight that allows a user to view documents in a dark situation without having to hold a flashlight. The pocket light fits easily over the top of the pocket and can be covered by a conventional pocket flap. The light is an LED display device that produces a significant amount of light so a user can check identification or documentation, as in a license check, or registration verification for police. The pocket light has a push button power switch that can be activated by the user through the fabric of their shirt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Inventor: Brian Quittner
  • Patent number: 7854529
    Abstract: Flashlight bezels, which comprise a bezel, lens, and a thermal conductor disposed in and through the lens so as to be positioned conduct heat from a light source positioned to one side of the lens to space on the opposite side of the lens, are described. When included in a flashlight, the thermal conductor portion of the bezel becomes associated with the light source so that heat generated by the light source, when energized, can be efficiently transferred to the environment, for example, water, in which the flashlight is being used. By so doing, the efficiency of the light source can be maintained, the service life of the light source may be extended, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: Underwater Kinetics, Inc.
    Inventor: Alan K. Uke
  • Publication number: 20100315808
    Abstract: A structure for securing a conductive strip of a flashlight includes a flashlight main body formed therein with a receiving space for receiving batteries. The receiving space has a lateral surface formed with a groove whose cross-section tapers toward the center of the receiving space and is configured for receiving the conductive strip coupled to a switch assembly, along with an insulating element corresponding in width to the conductive strip and having a predetermined length. Once installed in the flashlight main body, the conductive strip is separated from the batteries in the receiving space, thereby preventing the batteries from overheating, which might otherwise result from direct contact with the conductive strip. The main body further has a rear end coupled with a pressing portion formed of a pliable material such that a switch of the switch assembly is switched on or off by pressing the pressing portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: Hsueh-Chu Yeh
  • Patent number: 7841736
    Abstract: A squeeze-activated flashlight including a holder configured to receive a lamp and one or more batteries, and a housing configured to receive the holder. The housing includes a resiliently flexible actuator member for activating the lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Inventor: Paul R. Chabria
  • Publication number: 20100284177
    Abstract: A spot light includes a universal body, a light arrangement and a spot light accessory. The universal body includes a main body having a receiving compartment, and a light body, having a light cavity and a light opening, frontwardly and integrally extending from the main body. The light arrangement is supported by the universal body for generating illumination at the light opening. The spot light accessory includes a plurality of accessory elements selectively and detachably coupling with the universal body to transform the universal body from one configuration to another configuration so as to provide varieties of functional utilizations of the universal body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2010
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Inventor: Chi Hung Fermi Lau
  • Publication number: 20100254122
    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: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2010
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Applicant: Bayco Products, Ltd.
    Inventors: Bijan Bayat, Mark W. Kempter, James L. Newton
  • Patent number: 7806555
    Abstract: A flashlight includes a body, a battery pack held in the body, a rear cover joined on the body, and a push-button switch in the rear cover; the push-button switch includes positive and negative electrodes, and a button part facing a through hole of the rear cover; the battery pack includes a casing, a battery set in the casing, and a socket facing a through hole of the casing; the battery pack includes positive and negative electrodes, which are connected to positive and negative electrodes of the socket; a first elastic component is positioned between and connected to the positive electrodes of the push-button switch and the battery pack; a second elastic component is positioned between and connected to the negative electrodes of the switch and the battery pack; the battery pack can be charged through a charger plugged in the socket while it is still held in the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Inventor: Yun-Zhao Liu
  • Publication number: 20100246167
    Abstract: A flashlight assembly provides a convenient ability to turn the flashlight on and off, particularly for flashlights with a pressure activated power switch disposed on a rear portion of the flashlight. In one version, the flashlight assembly includes a flashlight holder that has a housing for receiving the flashlight's rear portion therein. The flashlight holder also has a handle connected to the housing that includes a support arm and an actuator arm. The support arm extends outwardly from the housing, while the actuator arm extends from the support arm back toward the housing, so as to overlie the power switch in spaced relation thereto. Disposed in this manner, the actuator arm is movable between depressed and released configurations. This movement allows the power switch to be selectively depressed and released, so as to turn the flashlight on and off. Other versions and methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2009
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Inventor: David E. D'Amato
  • Patent number: 7802898
    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. In these non-limiting embodiments, the different channels are defined by the axial position of the rotatable portion relative to the lighting device body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Blackhawk Industries Product Group Unlimited LLC
    Inventors: Thomas M. Gregory, Robert A. Kincaid, Craig Adam Lamb, Birten L. Todd, Eric M. Yeates, Clifton L. Cook, Thomas A. Marx, John E. Proc