Light source assembly with multiple, disparate light sources

A light source assembly includes a housing assembly and at least two sets of disparate light sources that are coupled to the housing assembly. The sets of disparate light sources include a first plurality of disparate light sources; and a second plurality of disparate light sources. Each plurality of disparate light sources includes a first light source that generates a first light beam having a first center wavelength and a second light source that generates a second light beam having a second center wavelength that is different than the first center wavelength. The first plurality of disparate light sources generates a first output beam that is directed along a first central beam axis. The second plurality of disparate light sources generates a second output beam that is directed along a second central beam axis that is spaced apart from the first central beam axis by at least approximately sixty degrees.

BACKGROUND

A signal beacon or flashlight can be utilized in conjunction with a detector assembly for various purposes in a military environment and in a civilian environment, and on land or in a maritime environment. For example, a signal beacon or flashlight can be utilized in conjunction with a detector assembly for purposes of search and rescue, identification (e.g., of friend or foe), surveillance, targeting, and/or navigation, both on land and/or in a maritime environment. There is an ongoing desire to improve the capabilities of a signal beacon or flashlight that can be used for such applications.

SUMMARY

The present invention is directed toward a light source assembly for use by a user. In various embodiments, the light source assembly includes a housing assembly and at least two sets of disparate light sources that are coupled to the housing assembly. The at least two sets of disparate light sources include (i) a first plurality of disparate light sources; and (ii) a second plurality of disparate light sources. Each of the sets of disparate light sources includes a first light source that is configured to generate a first light beam having a first center wavelength and a second light source that is configured to generate a second light beam having a second center wavelength that is different than the first center wavelength. The first plurality of disparate light sources generates at least one first output beam that is directed away from the housing assembly along and about a first central beam axis. The second plurality of disparate light sources generates at least one second output beam that is directed away from the housing assembly along and about a second central beam axis.

In certain embodiments, the at least one first output beam includes a first, first light beam; and the at least one second output beam includes a second, first light beam. Further, in such embodiment, the first central beam axis can be spaced apart from the second central beam axis by at least approximately sixty degrees.

Additionally, in some embodiments, the first central beam axis is spaced apart from the second central beam axis by at least approximately ninety degrees.

In certain embodiments, the at least two sets of disparate light sources further includes a third plurality of disparate light sources. In such embodiments, the third plurality of disparate light sources generates at least one third output beam that is directed away from the housing assembly along and about a third central beam axis. Additionally, the third central beam axis can be spaced apart from each of the first central beam axis and the second central beam axis by at least approximately sixty degrees. Further, in some such embodiments, the at least two sets of disparate light sources further includes a fourth plurality of disparate light sources. In such embodiments, the fourth plurality of disparate light sources generates at least one fourth output beam that is directed away from the housing assembly along and about a fourth central beam axis. Moreover, the fourth central beam axis can be spaced apart from each of the first central beam axis, the second central beam axis and the third central beam axis by at least approximately sixty degrees. Alternatively, in one such embodiment, each of the central beam axes can be spaced apart from each of the other central beam axes by approximately ninety degrees.

Still further, in certain embodiments, the at least one first output beam, the at least one second output beam, the at least one third output beam, and the at least one fourth output beam provide approximately 360-degree azimuthal coverage about the housing assembly.

In some embodiments, the light source assembly further includes a temperature control assembly that is coupled to the housing assembly, the temperature control assembly being configured to dissipate heat that is generated during use of the light source assembly.

Additionally, in certain embodiments, the light source assembly further includes a seal housing assembly that is configured to provide a sealed environment about the at least two sets of disparate light sources.

Further, in some embodiments, the light source assembly further includes a control system that is electrically coupled, but is positioned remotely from the at least two sets of disparate light sources. The control system can include a controller that selectively controls electrical power from a power source that is provided to each of the at least two sets of disparate light sources. Still further, the control system can further include a selector assembly that is electrically connected to the controller, the selector assembly being selectively controllable by the user to select a mode of operation for the at least two sets of disparate light sources.

Additionally, in some embodiments, the present invention is also directed toward a light source assembly for use by a user, the light source assembly including (A) a housing assembly; and (B) at least two sets of disparate light sources that are coupled to the housing assembly, the at least two sets of disparate light sources including (i) a first plurality of disparate light sources; and (ii) a second plurality of disparate light sources; wherein each of the sets of disparate light sources includes a first light source that is configured to generate a first light beam having a first center wavelength and a second light source that is configured to generate a second light beam having a second center wavelength that is different than the first center wavelength; wherein the first plurality of disparate light sources generates at least one first output beam that is directed away from the housing assembly along and about a first central beam axis; wherein the second plurality of disparate light sources generates at least one second output beam that is directed away from the housing assembly along and about a second central beam axis; and wherein the at least one first output beam and the at least one second output beam provide at least approximately 180-degree azimuthal coverage about the housing assembly.

It should be understood that although a number of different embodiments of a light source assembly are illustrated and described herein below, one or more features of any one embodiment can be combined with one or more features of one or more of the other embodiments, provided that such combination satisfies the intent of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the present invention are described herein in the context of a light source assembly with multiple, disparate light sources. More particularly, in various embodiments, the light source assembly can be utilized in conjunction with a detector assembly for various purposes and in various environments, e.g., in military or civilian environments, and on land or in maritime environments. Additionally, in certain applications, the light source assembly can be utilized in conjunction with the detector assembly regardless of the position of the detector assembly relative to the light source assembly.

Those of ordinary skill in the art will realize that the following detailed description of the present invention is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. Other embodiments of the present invention will readily suggest themselves to such skilled persons having the benefit of this disclosure. Reference will now be made in detail to implementations of the present invention as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1Ais a simplified front perspective view of an embodiment of a light source assembly10having features of the present invention. The design of the light source assembly10can be varied to suit the specific requirements and intended uses of the light source assembly10. As illustrated, in various embodiments, the light source assembly10includes a housing assembly12, a plurality of disparate light sources14, an optical assembly16, a controller18or circuit board (illustrated inFIG. 1D), a power source20(illustrated inFIG. 1E), and a selector assembly22, e.g., a switch or dial. Alternatively, the light source assembly10can be designed with more or fewer components than those specifically illustrated and described in this embodiment. For example, in one such alternative embodiment, the light source assembly10can be designed without the optical assembly16.

As an overview, the present invention is directed to a light source assembly10that can be used as a beacon or flashlight for various purposes, in conjunction with a detector assembly23(illustrated as a box). For example, in various applications, the light source assembly10can be used with the detector assembly23for purposes of identification, surveillance, search and rescue, targeting, navigation and/or communication. In certain embodiments, the detector assembly23can be a camera that is adapted to selectively detect one or more of the plurality of disparate light sources14. Moreover, in some embodiments, as discussed herein below, the selector assembly22can be manually operated by a user so as to allow the user to select from various possible selector settings, and thus various possible modes of operation, based on the needs of the user at any given time.

As utilized herein, it should be appreciated that the combination of the light source assembly10and the detector assembly23can be referred to generally as an “operational assembly”. During use of the operational assembly25, the light source assembly10is utilized such that any and all of the plurality of disparate light sources14can be selectively activated, and the detector assembly23is utilized to selectively detect output beams from each of the plurality of disparate light sources14.

In one application, for identification, e.g., in military operations, it is important to be able to quickly and accurately identify any individual, group, vehicle or device as friend or foe. In this application, the individuals or groups (e.g., soldiers), vehicles and/or devices could have light source assemblies10that can utilize the disparate light sources14alternatively and/or at specifically designated pulse rates (i.e. the light source assembly10is fully programmable such that the disparate light sources14can be coded in any suitable or desired manner) to identify the owner as friendly. Conversely, absence of and/or non-properly coded usage of such light source assemblies10can be interpreted as the owner being a foe. Additionally, in such applications, the light source assembly10can be handheld, uniform-mounted, helmet-mounted, and/or mounted on a portion of the vehicle or device. Moreover, the light source assembly10can be pointed (similar to a flashlight) to identify something.

In another application, a person in charge of the command and control of a battlefield will want to keep track of the relative positions of people and military equipment. As provided herein, each person or each piece of military equipment can include a light source assembly10that is controlled to selectively activate disparate light sources14and/or pulse the light sources14at a different rate (coded in any suitable or desired manner). In such application, the different light sources14and/or different pulse rates can be recognized to locate and individually identify the location of multiple assets based on the sequence of the pulsing of the beams of the light sources using a detector assembly23that captures images of the battlefield.

In still another application, i.e. for surveillance, one or more light source assemblies10could be used to define a search area for the detector assembly23. In this application, something moving in front of the light source assembly10would result in a disappearance of signal that could be used to trigger an event, much like near-infrared diodes are used in applications such as making sure that the path is clear before closing a garage door.

In yet another application, i.e. for use in search and rescue operations, life rafts, life vests, or soldiers' kits could all include one or more light source assemblies10that could be activated in an emergency. In such application, the emitted signal from the light source assembly10would allow easier, faster and more accurate spotting with the detector assembly23, and could also be invisible to hostile forces if the emitted and detected light sources14are not widely used. Additionally, in this application, the light sources14can be viewed day and night, and in inclement conditions for search and rescue operations.

In another alternative application, i.e. for targeting, a light source assembly10could be placed on a target of interest surreptitiously, and left operating for later targeting with a detector assembly23.

In still another alternative application, i.e. for navigation, one or more light source assemblies10can be used to help navigate in conditions such as dust and fog, and/or when normal visibility may be otherwise impaired. In this application, multiple light source assemblies10could be used to define roads or runways.

In still yet another application, i.e. for use in a maritime environment, one or more light source assemblies10can be mounted on any size boat or ship (or other suitable maritime vehicle) for use in any of the above-noted applications. For example, in alternative applications in the maritime environment, the one or more light sources can be used for identification purposes, asset command and control, surveillance, search and rescue operations, targeting and/or navigation.

Additionally, it is understood that the light source assembly10can be utilized on or in conjunction with any suitable type of vehicle. For example, in addition to the maritime vehicles noted above, in certain non-exclusive alternative applications, the light source assembly10can also be used on or in conjunction with a ground vehicle (e.g., car, truck, bus, tank, etc.), an air vehicle (e.g., helicopter, fixed-wing aircraft, etc.), or another suitable type of vehicle.

As provided herein, in various applications, any information can be coded in the beacon signal emitted by the light source assembly10by adjusting the specific light sources14that are activated at any given time and/or the pulse rate of the light sources14of the light source assembly10. Stated in another manner, the light source assembly10can be fully programmable to selectively activate any and all of the light sources14in any desired manner. For example, in one non-exclusive application, the pulse rate of the light sources14can be adjusted to provide a message in Morse code. Additionally, in certain embodiments, the length and timing of each pulse can be long enough to be effectively captured by the detector assembly23. For example, each pulse can be longer than the exposure time of the detector assembly23to make sure the pulse is captured by the detector assembly23. Further, in one embodiment, the pulse rate of the light source assembly10can be synchronized with the capture rate of the detector assembly23. With this design, the light source assembly10can be controlled to generate the desired light beam(s) while the detector assembly23is capturing such light. As one example, the detector assembly23can emit a signal (e.g., a RF signal) that is received by the light source assembly10to synchronize them. Alternatively, the detector assembly23and one or more of the light source assemblies10can be synchronized prior to the beginning of the operation. Still alternatively, the detector assembly23and the light source assemblies10can receive a signal from a GPS that can be used to synchronize the devices.

It should be noted that either physical, inductive, or radio frequency signals can be used to program the coding of pulses (pulse width, pulse rate, pulse repetition, Morse, etc.) of any of the light sources14.

Additionally, in certain embodiments, the light source assembly10is designed to be small, portable, lightweight, stable, rugged, easy to manufacture, reliable, efficient for longer use of the power source20, and relatively inexpensive to manufacture. Further, the light source assembly10is further designed to be usable at sufficient distances that the signals can be detected from outside a danger zone, e.g., in certain applications, the light source assembly10can have a range of greater than three kilometers. As a result thereof, the light source assembly10can be used in many applications, such as those specifically noted above, as a signal beacon or flashlight.

The housing assembly12retains various components of the light source assembly10. For example, in certain embodiments, the plurality of disparate light sources14, the optical assembly16, the controller18, the power source20and the selector assembly22can all be coupled to, secured to, and/or retained substantially within the housing assembly12. Alternatively, in other embodiments, one or more of the controller18, the power source20and the selector assembly22can be maintained outside the housing assembly12.

The design of the housing assembly12can be varied. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 1A, the housing assembly12includes a housing front12A, a housing rear12B, a power compartment cover12C, and a plurality of heat spreaders12D, e.g., fins. Alternatively, the housing assembly12can include more or fewer components than specifically illustrated in this embodiment.

As shown, the housing front12A can include a plurality of housing apertures24, with each housing aperture24being aligned to allow for the emitting and directing of the plurality of disparate light sources14out of and/or away from the housing assembly12and away from the light source assembly10, such that the light sources14can be quickly, easily and accurately detected by the detector assembly23. In particular, in this embodiment, the housing front12A includes five housing apertures24to allow for the selective and/or alternative emitting and directing of five disparate light sources14from the light source assembly10. Alternatively, the housing front12A can include greater than five or fewer than five housing apertures24. For example, in some embodiments, more than one light source14can be directed away from the housing assembly12through a common housing aperture24, thus requiring fewer housing apertures24than light sources14in such embodiments. Still alternatively, the housing apertures24can be located in a different portion of the housing assembly12.

In certain embodiments, the housing rear12B provides the necessary housing for the various components of the housing assembly10that are positioned at or near the rear of the light source assembly10.FIG. 1Bis a simplified rear perspective view of the light source assembly10ofFIG. 1A. More particularly,FIG. 1Bmore clearly illustrates one non-exclusive alternative design for the housing rear12B of the housing assembly12.

Returning toFIG. 1A, the power compartment cover12C protects and/or covers the power source20as the power source20is coupled to, secured to, and/or positioned within the housing assembly12. In one embodiment, the power compartment cover12C can be selectively and independently removed and/or opened to allow for any changes or modifications to the power source20.

The heat spreaders12D help to spread and/or transfer heat from the light source assembly10, i.e. to effectively move heat away from the light sources14. More particularly, in one non-exclusive alternative embodiment, the heat spreaders12D can comprise a plurality of fins that provide greater surface area for the housing assembly12as a means to more effectively transfer heat away from the light sources14and/or other components of the light source assembly10and into the surrounding environment. Alternatively, the heat spreaders12D can have a different design than that shown in the Figures. Still alternatively, the housing assembly12can be designed without the heat spreaders12D.

It should be appreciated that the light source assembly10is designed to provide natural convection cooling for the light sources14and the other components of the light source assembly10. With such design, the housing assembly12can be designed without the heat spreaders12D; although the heat spreaders12D, as described, can further enhance the ability of the light source assembly10to effectively move heat away from the light sources14and the other components of the light source assembly10.

Additionally, the overall shape and size of the housing assembly12can be varied to suit the specific requirements of the light source assembly10. For example, in certain embodiments, the housing assembly12can be substantially rectangular box-shaped and can have a length of between approximately two inches and four inches, a width of between approximately two inches and three inches, and a thickness of between approximately 0.5-1.25 inches. In one non-exclusive embodiment, the housing assembly12is substantially rectangular box shaped, and has a length of 3.75 inches, a width of 2.5 inches, and a thickness of one inch. Alternatively, in other suitable embodiments, the housing assembly12can be other that substantially rectangular box-shaped, and/or the housing assembly12can have a length, width and thickness that are greater than or less than the specific dimensions discussed herein above. For example, in certain such alternative embodiments, the housing assembly12can be substantially square box-shaped, cylindrical disk-shaped, hexagonal disk-shaped, octagonal disk-shaped, or another suitable shape.

In particular, in yet another non-exclusive example, the housing assembly12has a cylindrical shape with a diameter of between approximately one inch and four inches and a thickness of between approximately 0.5-3 inches.

The number, type, design, positioning and orientation of the disparate light sources14can be varied depending on the specific requirements of the light source assembly10. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 1A, the light source assembly10includes five disparate light sources14, i.e. a first light source14A, a second light source14B, a third light source14C, a fourth light source14D and a fifth light source14E that are each coupled to, secured to, and/or positioned substantially within the housing assembly12. Alternatively, the light source assembly10can include greater than five or fewer than five disparate light sources14. Still alternatively, the plurality of light sources14can be grouped together in any suitable manner. Stated in another fashion, the plurality of light sources14can be arranged with one or more disparate light sources14positioned in one or more different general locations within the housing assembly12.

Additionally, each of the light sources14can be designed and/or individually tuned to provide an output beam having a specific wavelength. For example, in one non-exclusive alternative embodiment, (i) the first light source14A can be a long-wavelength infrared light source that generates and/or emits a first output beam26A having a center wavelength that is in a long-wavelength infrared range of between approximately eight micrometers and fifteen micrometers; (ii) the second light source14B can be a mid-wavelength infrared light source that generates and/or emits a second output beam26B having a center wavelength that is in a mid-wavelength infrared range of between approximately three micrometers and eight micrometers; (iii) the third light source14C can be a short-wavelength infrared light source that generates and/or emits a third output beam26C having a center wavelength that is in a short-wavelength infrared range of between approximately one point four (1.4) micrometers and three micrometers; (iv) the fourth light source14D can be a near-infrared light source that generates and/or emits a fourth output beam26D having a center wavelength that is in a near-infrared wavelength range of between approximately seven hundred nanometers (i.e. 0.70 micrometers) and one point four (1.4) micrometers; and (v) the fifth light source14E can be a visible light source that generates and/or emits a fifth output beam26E having a center wavelength that is in a visible wavelength range of between approximately three hundred eighty and seven hundred nanometers. Alternatively, one or more of the light sources14A-14E can be different than those specifically identified herein above (e.g., the light sources14A-14E can have different wavelengths such as those for a far-infrared light source, an ultraviolet light source, an X-ray light source, or another appropriate light source), and/or the light sources14A-14E can be positioned and/or oriented relative to one another in a different manner than is shown inFIG. 1A.

Further, as shown inFIG. 1A, each of the light sources14A-14E generates and/or emits an independent output beam. In particular, (i) the first light source14A generates and/or emits the first output beam26A (illustrated with a dashed line), e.g., a long-wavelength infrared output beam, along a first beam axis27A; (ii) the second light source14B generates and/or emits the second output beam26B (illustrated with a dashed line), e.g., a mid-wavelength infrared output beam, along a second beam axis27B; (iii) the third light source14C generates and/or emits the third output beam26C (illustrated with a dashed line), e.g., a short-wavelength infrared output beam, along a third beam axis27C; (iv) the fourth light source14D generates and/or emits the fourth output beam26D (illustrated with a dashed line), e.g., a near-wavelength infrared output beam, along a fourth beam axis27D; and (v) the fifth light source14E generates and/or emits the fifth output beam26E (illustrated with a dashed line), e.g., a visible light output beam, along a fifth beam axis27E. In some embodiments, such as the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 1A, each of the output beams26A-26E can be spaced apart from and substantially parallel to each of the other output beams26A-26E. Thus, in such embodiments, each of the beam axes27A-27E can be spaced apart from and substantially parallel to each of the other beam axes27A-27E.

Alternatively, in other embodiments, one or more of the output beams26A-26E can be directed away from the housing assembly12at an angle relative to any of the other output beams26A-26E, such that the output beams26A-26E, and thus the beam axes27A-27E, are not parallel to one another. For example, in some such alternative embodiments, one or more of the output beams26A-26E can be directed away from the housing assembly12through a different face of the housing assembly12, e.g., the first output beam26A and the second output beam26B can be directed away from a front surface344A (illustrated inFIG. 3) of the housing assembly12, the third output beam26C can be directed away from a first side surface344B (illustrated inFIG. 3) of the housing assembly12, the fourth output beam26D can be directed away from a rear surface344C (illustrated inFIG. 3) of the housing assembly12, and the fifth output beam26E can be directed away from a second side surface344D (illustrated inFIG. 3) of the housing assembly12. It should be appreciated that in various alternative embodiments, each of the output beams26A-26E can be directed away from the housing assembly12in any desired direction(s), away from any surface(s) of the housing assembly12, and/or through any housing aperture(s)24.

In various embodiments, each of the output beams26A-26E can be viewable with the detector assembly23. Stated in another manner, during use, the detector assembly23can selectively detect each of the output beams26A-26E that are generated and/or emitted by the light sources14A-14E. Additionally, in some embodiments, the output beams26A-26E can have high peak (maximum) pulsed (or continuous wave) intensities, e.g., greater than one watt, greater than two watts, etc., that enable viewing of the output beams26A-26E over large distances. Moreover, one or more of the output beams26A-26E can be viewable day and night, and through inclement weather conditions (e.g., fog, rain, snow, smoke, clouds, or dust in the atmosphere).

It should be appreciated that the use of the terms “first light source”, “second light source”, “third light source”, “fourth light source”, and “fifth light source” is merely for purposes of convenience and ease of illustration, and any of the light sources14A-14E can be equally referred to as the “first light source”, the “second light source”, the “third light source”, the “fourth light source”, and/or the “fifth light source”. Similarly, it should also be appreciated that the use of the terms “first output beam”, “second output beam”, “third output beam”, “fourth output beam”, and “fifth output beam” is merely for purposes of convenience and ease of illustration, and any of the output beams26A-26E can be equally referred to as the “first output beam”, the “second output beam”, the “third output beam”, the “fourth output beam”, and/or the “fifth output beam”. Still similarly, it should further be appreciated that the use of the terms “first beam axis”, “second beam axis”, “third beam axis”, “fourth beam axis”, and “fifth beam axis” is merely for purposes of convenience and ease of illustration, and any of the beam axes27A-27E can be equally referred to as the “first beam axis”, the “second beam axis”, the “third beam axis”, the “fourth beam axis”, and/or the “fifth beam axis”.

In certain embodiments, the optical assembly16can be provided to enable any desired focusing, shaping and directing of the output beams26A-26E from each of the plurality of disparate light sources14A-14E. For example, in certain embodiments, the optical assembly16can include one or more lenses, mirrors, diffractive optical elements (DOE) and/or other optical elements to enable any desired focusing, shaping and directing of the output beams26A-26E from each of the plurality of disparate light sources14A-14E. Additionally and/or alternatively, the optical assembly16can include a window designed such that the output beams26A-26E are not collimated, i.e. are uncollimated. Still alternatively, one or more of the output beams26A-26E can be directed away from the housing assembly12of the light source assembly10without the need for any optical elements. In such embodiments, each of the output beams26A-26E will again be uncollimated.

The controller18(illustrated inFIG. 1D) is coupled to, secured to, and/or positioned substantially within the housing assembly12. During use, the controller18enables the necessary and desired control of the operation of the light source assembly10, i.e. the selective operation of one or more of the plurality of disparate light sources14, by selectively controlling the electrical power that is provided by the power source20to the light sources14A-14E. In certain applications, the controller18selectively directs current from the power source20to one of the light sources14such that only one light source14is activated at a time. Alternatively, in other applications, the controller18can selectively direct current from the power source20to one of the light sources14, e.g., the first light source14A, in a first duty cycle, and direct current from the power source20to another of the light sources14, e.g., the second light source14B, in a second duty cycle that is different from the first duty cycle. In such embodiments, the controller18can selectively activate multiple light sources14such that any two of the output beams26A-26E can be generated in an alternating (or random) pattern. Still alternatively, in still other embodiments, the controller18can selectively direct current from the power source20to multiple light sources14so as to enable multiple light sources14to be activated at any given time. One non-exclusive embodiment of an exemplary controller18that can be used with the present invention is illustrated in and will be described in greater detail in relation toFIG. 1D.

The power source20is coupled to, secured to, and/or positioned substantially within the housing assembly12. In various embodiments, the power source20provides the necessary and desired electrical power to effectively and efficiently operate the light source assembly10, i.e. to selectively activate and control one or more of the plurality of disparate light sources14.

The selector assembly22is electrically connected to the controller18. In certain embodiments, the selector assembly22enables the user to selectively choose between a variety of potential modes of operation via a plurality of selector settings29. The potential modes of operation and/or the specific selector settings29can be varied to suit the specific design requirements of the light source assembly10.FIG. 1Cis a simplified top perspective view of the light source assembly10ofFIG. 1A, which provides a clear illustration of some of the selector settings29available in this embodiment via the selector assembly22. For example, the selector assembly22shows that the user can select between the following modes of operation and/or selector settings29: (i) on, with the long-wavelength infrared light source14A (illustrated inFIG. 1A) and the mid-wavelength infrared light source14B (illustrated inFIG. 1A) operating in an alternating manner; (ii) on, using the mid-wavelength infrared light source14B; (iii) on, using the long-wavelength infrared light source14A; (iv) on, using the short-wavelength infrared light source14C (illustrated inFIG. 1A); (v) on, using the near-infrared light source14D (illustrated inFIG. 1A); (vi) on, using the visible light source14E (illustrated inFIG. 1A); and (vii) off. It should be appreciated that the potential modes of operation and/or selector settings29can be expanded to include a combined and/or alternating use of any combination of the plurality of light sources14A-14E illustrated specifically herein. Additionally, it should further be appreciated that the potential modes of operation and/or selector settings29can be expanded to include individual and/or combined (e.g., alternating) use of any other light sources that may potentially be included within the light source assembly10.

Additionally, in certain embodiments, the selector assembly22can further be adjusted by the user to enable the selective adjustment of a pulse rate and/or duty cycle of the emission of the output beams26A-26E (illustrated inFIG. 1A) when the output beams26A-26E are generated and/or emitted in a pulsed mode of operation, and/or to enable one or more of the output beams26A-26E to be generated and/or emitted in a continuous wave mode of operation. For example, when it is desired by the user to generate and/or emit the output beams26A-26E is a pulsed mode of operation, the user can make a selection via the selector assembly22such that the controller18(illustrated inFIG. 1D) pulses the power, i.e. the current, that is directed from the power source20to the light source14over time. In one non-exclusive setting, the duty cycle can be approximately fifty percent, e.g. the power can be directed to the light source14for a predetermined period of time and alternately the power is not directed to the light source14for the same predetermined period of time. Alternatively, the duty cycle can be greater than or less than fifty percent, i.e. the power can be directed to the light source for a longer or shorter period of time than the power is not being directed to the light source14. Further, when it is desired by the user to generate and/or emit the output beams26A-26E in a continuous wave mode of operation, the user can make a selection via the selector assembly22such that the controller18continuously directs power, i.e. current, from the power source20to the light source14.

It should be appreciated that utilizing a pulsed mode of operation can assist the light source assembly10in achieving more efficient and/or lower overall power usage by the power source20, and can further inhibit the undesired generation of heat within the light source assembly10. Moreover, it should be realized that such benefits can be achieved by utilizing a pulsed mode of operation regardless of whether the light source assembly10is utilizing multiple light sources14A-14E in an alternating manner, or whether the light source assembly10is utilizing only a single given light source14A-14E at any given time.

Simplified graphical illustrations of possible current inputs and beam outputs for each of the settings discussed specifically herein are illustrated and described herein below in relation toFIGS. 4A-4F, with the exception of the “off” setting where no current is provided to any of the light sources14A-14E and no output beams26A-26E are generated and emitted by the light source assembly10.

FIG. 1Dis a simplified rear perspective view of a portion of the light source assembly10ofFIG. 1A. In particular,FIG. 1Dis a simplified rear perspective view of the light source assembly10with the housing rear12B having been removed so that certain elements, e.g., the controller18, can be more clearly illustrated.

The controller18controls the operation of the light source assembly10including the electrical power that is directed from the power source20(illustrated inFIG. 1E) to each of the plurality of disparate light sources14(illustrated inFIG. 1A) that are included as part of the light source assembly10. The design of the controller18can be varied. For example, the controller18can include one or more processors and circuits that are electrically connected to the selector assembly22. With this design, the processors control the selective operation of each of the plurality of disparate light sources14.

Additionally, as noted above, in certain embodiments, the controller18can direct power to one or more of the light sources14in a pulsed fashion to minimize heat generation in, and power consumption by the light sources14, while still achieving the desired average optical power of the output beams26A-26E (illustrated inFIG. 1A). This enables more efficient use of the power source20such that the power source20, e.g., one or more batteries, can be used for a longer period of time as compared to when used in a continuous wave mode of operation. Such low battery drain can be crucial for long life of the light source assembly10when being used in the field. Additionally, this helps to minimize the heat generated. As a result thereof, this increases the number of operational environments in which the assembly can be used. For example, this allows the assembly to be used in a high temperature desert.

It should be noted that in certain embodiments, active cooling (e.g. with a fan or TEC) of the assembly is not required because of the unique design provided herein. Alternatively, in certain embodiments, the assembly can be actively cooled.

Further, in certain embodiments, the controller18can include a boost converter (e.g., a DC-to-DC power converter), a capacitor assembly, a reduction DC-to-DC power converter, a switch assembly, and a processor that can be utilized in conjunction with one another to enable the controller18to effectively and efficiently utilize power from the power source20to selectively operate each of the plurality of disparate light sources14.

FIG. 1Eis a simplified front perspective view of a portion of the light source assembly10ofFIG. 1A. In particular,FIG. 1Eis a simplified front perspective view of the light source assembly10with the power compartment cover12C having been removed so that certain elements, e.g., the power source20, can be more clearly illustrated.

The power source20provides electrical power for the light sources14(illustrated inFIG. 1A) and the controller18(illustrated inFIG. 1D). As shown inFIG. 1E, the power source20can include a plurality of batteries20A that are positioned within a battery compartment20B. The batteries20A provide the necessary power for full operation of the light source assembly10. In one embodiment, as illustrated, the power source20can include three batteries20A. Alternatively, the power source20can be designed to include greater than three or fewer than three batteries20A. Still alternatively, the power source20can be designed in another manner, i.e. without the use of batteries20A. For example, the power source20can be a generator or other type of external power source that is positioned outside the housing assembly12, and the power source20can be electrically connected to the light source assembly10via one or more wires. Yet alternatively, such an external power source20can also be wirelessly, electrically connected to the light source assembly10.

FIG. 1Fis a simplified front perspective view of a portion of the light source assembly10ofFIG. 1A. In particular,FIG. 1Fis a simplified front perspective view of the light source assembly10with the housing assembly12having been removed for purposes of more clearly illustrating certain features and aspects of the present invention. For example,FIG. 1Fillustrates certain features and aspects of the light sources14A-14E, and the optical assembly16that can be provided to enable any desired focusing, shaping and directing of the output beams26A-26E (illustrated inFIG. 1A) from each of the plurality of disparate light sources14A-14E.

The design, positioning and mounting of each of the light sources14A-14E can be varied to suit the specific design requirements of the light source assembly10. In some embodiments, the first light source14A can comprise a quantum cascade laser source (as shown in greater detail inFIG. 1G), the second light source14B can also comprise a quantum cascade laser source (as shown in greater detail inFIG. 1H), and each of the third light source14C, the fourth light source14D and the fifth light source14E can comprise LED light sources, laser diode and/or photonic crystal light sources. Alternatively, one or more of the light sources14A-14E can have a different design.

Additionally, in certain embodiments, as shown inFIG. 1F, the first light source14A can be mounted on a first mounting board28A, the second light source14B can be mounted on a second mounting board28B, and the third light source14C, the fourth light source14D and the fifth light source14E can be mounted together on a common third mounting board28C. Additionally, in this embodiment, each of the mounting boards28A-28C are independent of the other mounting boards28A-28C. Alternatively, the light sources14A-14E can be mounted in a different manner than specifically shown inFIG. 1F. For example, each of the light sources14A-14E can be mounted on a single, common mounting board, and/or each of the light sources14A-14E can be mounted on a separate, independent mounting board.

Further,FIG. 1Ffurther illustrates certain variable aspects for the selector settings29that can be chosen by the user via the selector assembly22.

Still further,FIG. 1Falso illustrates that the light source assembly10can include an alert system30. The alert system30can be programmable so as to alert the user when and if one or more features of the light source assembly10have been activated. The alert system30can have any suitable design. For example, in one non-exclusive embodiment, the alert system30can include a vibrator that vibrates when and if one or more features of the light source assembly10have been activated. More specifically, the alert system30can be used to alert the user that one or more of the output beams are being generated. The alert system30can also be coded such that a different alert signal is provided depending on the specific settings (e.g. specific output beams) that have been activated within the light source assembly10.

FIG. 1Gis a simplified side perspective view of a portion of the light source assembly10ofFIG. 1A. In particular,FIG. 1Gillustrates additional features of one or more of the plurality of disparate light sources14. For example,FIG. 1Gillustrates certain features that can be included as part of the first light source14A.

As illustrated inFIG. 1G, the first light source14A can be a quantum cascade laser (QCL) that generates and/or emits a coherent, first output beam26A (illustrated inFIG. 1A). More particularly, in one embodiment, the first light source14A can include a Quantum Cascade (QC) gain medium32that directly emits a light beam, i.e. the first output beam26A, that is in the long-wavelength infrared range. With this design, electrons transmitted through the QC gain medium32emit one photon at each of the energy steps. For example, the QC gain medium32can use two different semiconductor materials such as InGaAs and AlInAs (grown on an InP or GaSb substrate, for example) to form a series of potential wells and barriers for electron transitions. The thickness of these wells/barriers determines the wavelength characteristic of the QC gain medium32. Additionally, in one, non-exclusive such embodiment, the semiconductor QCL laser chip is mounted epitaxial growth side down. Alternatively, the first light source14A can include an interband-cascade (IC) laser, a diode laser, and/or any other laser capable of generating radiation in the appropriate long-wavelength infrared spectral region.

FIG. 1Gfurther illustrates certain aspects of one non-exclusive embodiment of the optical assembly16. For example, as related to the first light source14A, the optical assembly16can be positioned substantially adjacent to the QC gain medium32in line with the lasing axis. In certain embodiments, the optical assembly16can include one lens or more than one lens that collimate and focus the light or can spread the light to provide other beam shapes such as top hat, doughnut, spherical configurations after the beam exits the facet of the QC gain medium32. In one such embodiment, the optical assembly16can include an aspherical lens having an optical axis that is aligned with the lasing axis. Alternatively, the optical assembly16can have a different design relative to the first light source14A. Still alternatively, as noted above, the first light source14A can be provided without the optical assembly16, and/or with the optical assembly16simply including a window, such that the first output beam26A is uncollimated.

FIG. 1His a simplified side perspective view of a portion of the light source assembly10ofFIG. 1A. In particular,FIG. 1Hillustrates additional features of one or more of the plurality of disparate light sources14. For example,FIG. 1Hillustrates certain features that can be included as part of the second light source14B.

In one embodiment, the design of the second light source14B can be somewhat similar to that of the first light source14A. For example, as illustrated inFIG. 1H, the second light source14B can be a quantum cascade laser (QCL) that generates and/or emits a coherent, second output beam26B (illustrated inFIG. 1A). More particularly, in one embodiment, the second light source14B can include a Quantum Cascade (QC) gain medium34that directly emits a light beam, i.e. the second output beam26A, that is in the mid-wavelength infrared range. With this design, electrons transmitted through the QC gain medium34emit one photon at each of the energy steps. For example, the QC gain medium34can use two different semiconductor materials such as InGaAs and AlInAs (grown on an InP or GaSb substrate, for example) to form a series of potential wells and barriers for electron transitions. The thickness of these wells/barriers determines the wavelength characteristic of the QC gain medium34. Additionally, in one, non-exclusive such embodiment, the semiconductor QCL laser chip is mounted epitaxial growth side down. Alternatively, the second light source14B can include an interband-cascade (IC) laser, a diode laser, and/or any other laser capable of generating radiation in the appropriate mid-wavelength infrared spectral region.

FIG. 1Hfurther illustrates certain aspects of one non-exclusive embodiment of the optical assembly16. For example, as related to the second light source14B, the optical assembly16can be positioned substantially adjacent to the QC gain medium34in line with the lasing axis. In certain embodiments, the optical assembly16can include one lens or more than one lens that collimate and focus the light or can spread the light to provide other beam shapes such as top hat, doughnut, spherical configurations after the beam exits the facet of the QC gain medium34. In one such embodiment, the optical assembly16can include an aspherical lens having an optical axis that is aligned with the lasing axis. Alternatively, the optical assembly16can have a different design relative to the second light source14B. Still alternatively, as noted above, the second light source14B can be provided without the optical assembly16, and/or with the optical assembly16simply including a window, such that the second output beam26B is uncollimated.

It should be noted that in certain embodiments, the light sources14A-14E and/or the optical assembly16can be positioned such that the light source assembly10can provide as much as a fully spherical optical output.

FIG. 2Ais a simplified front perspective view of another embodiment of a light source assembly210having features of the present invention. The light source assembly210illustrated inFIG. 2Ais substantially similar to the light source assembly10illustrated and described herein in relation toFIGS. 1A-1H. For example, the light source assembly210can include a housing assembly212, a plurality of disparate light sources214, an optical assembly216, a controller (not illustrated), a power source (not illustrated), and a selector assembly222that are substantially similar to the housing assembly12, the plurality of disparate light sources14, the optical assembly16, the controller18, the power source20, and the selector assembly22illustrated and described herein in relation toFIGS. 1A-1H.

However, in this embodiment, the light source assembly210further includes a thermal shield236, e.g., a solar shield, that can be positioned substantially adjacent to the housing assembly212, e.g., substantially adjacent to the housing front (not shown) and the power compartment cover (not shown). For example, in one embodiment, the thermal shield236can include a shield body238that is coupled to the housing assembly212, e.g., with a plurality of shield fasteners240, such that the shield body238can be positioned spaced apart from the housing assembly212. With this design, the thermal shield236functions to inhibit energy, e.g., heat, from contacting the housing assembly212and/or being conducted into the other components of the light source assembly210.

The thermal shield236is designed to shield the remainder of the light source assembly210from absorbing excessive energy from an external energy source242(illustrated as a circle), e.g., the sun, by either dissipating, reflecting or simply absorbing the energy. The design of the thermal shield236can be varied depending on the specific requirements of the light source assembly210. In certain embodiments, as shown inFIG. 2A, the shield body238can have a lattice-type design that effectively inhibits and/or blocks at least a majority of the energy, e.g., the solar rays, from hitting a percentage of the housing assembly212. Additionally, the holes that are provided in the lattice-type design allow for natural convection cooling of the top surface of the housing assembly212. Alternatively, the thermal shield236, i.e. the shield body238, can have a different design than that illustrated inFIG. 2A.

FIG. 2Bis a simplified side perspective view of the light source assembly210ofFIG. 2A. In particular, this side perspective view better illustrates how the shield body238of the thermal shield236can be coupled to and spaced apart from the housing assembly212of the light source assembly210. For example, in some embodiments, each of the shield fasteners240, e.g., screws, can extend within and/or through a fastener housing240H that is positioned, at least in part, between the housing assembly212and the shield body238. Thus, in such embodiments, the fastener housing240H enables the shield body238to be maintained spaced apart from the housing assembly212, while still enabling the fasteners to effectively couple the shield body238to the housing assembly212.

FIG. 2Cis a front perspective view of a portion of the light source assembly210ofFIG. 2A. In particular,FIG. 2Cillustrates a potential design for the shield body238that can be utilized to effectively inhibit and/or block a majority of the energy, e.g., the solar rays, from hitting the housing assembly212(illustrated inFIG. 2A), while still allowing for natural convection cooling of the top surface of the housing assembly212. As shown, and as noted above, the shield body238can have a lattice-type design that enables such desirable features to be effectively accomplished.

In some embodiments, such as shown inFIG. 2C, the shield body238can include a plurality of cooling apertures243C that can be sized and positioned to most effectively enable natural convection cooling of the full housing assembly212. In certain non-exclusive alternative embodiments, the cooling apertures243C can be substantially similar in size, can be evenly spaced apart from one another and can be sized to be positioned within between twenty percent and forty-five percent of the shield body238. In one non-exclusive embodiment, the shield body238can include seven rows of cooling apertures243C that each include seven individual cooling apertures243C. Alternatively, the shield body238can include greater of fewer cooling apertures243C than what is illustrated inFIG. 2Cand/or the cooling apertures243C can be positioned within greater than forty-five percent or less than twenty percent of the shield body238.

Additionally, as shown, the shield body238can further include a beam aperture243B that is positioned and sized to allow each of the output beams26A-26E (illustrated inFIG. 1A) from each of the light sources14A-14E (illustrated inFIG. 1A) to be directed away from the housing assembly212and through the beam aperture243B. In one embodiment, as shown, the beam aperture243B can be substantially rectangle-shaped. Alternatively, the beam aperture243B can be another suitable shape.

FIG. 3is a simplified schematic front perspective view of a portion of still another embodiment of a light source assembly310having features of the present invention. In particular,FIG. 3provides a simplified front perspective view of another embodiment of the housing assembly312, with the additional features of the light source assembly310having been omitted for purposes of clarity.

As noted above, in certain embodiments, the light source assembly310can be designed such that one or more of the output beams26A-26E (illustrated inFIG. 1A) can be directed away from the housing assembly312at an angle relative to any of the other output beams26A-26E, such that the output beams26A-26E, and thus the beam axes27A-27E (illustrated inFIG. 1A), are not parallel to one another. For example, in the non-exclusive alternative embodiment illustrated inFIG. 3, the housing assembly312can include a plurality of housing apertures324, with one or more of the housing apertures324being potentially positioned along a front surface344A, a first side surface344B, a rear surface344C and a second side surface344D of the housing assembly312. With this design, one or more of the output beams26A-26E can be directed away from the housing assembly312through a different face of the housing assembly312. For example, in one non-exclusive alternative arrangement, the first output beam26A and the second output beam26B can be directed away from the front surface344A of the housing assembly312, the third output beam26C can be directed away from the first side surface344B of the housing assembly312, the fourth output beam26D can be directed away from the rear surface344C of the housing assembly312, and the fifth output beam26E can be directed away from the second side surface344D of the housing assembly312. Alternatively, the output beams26A-26E can be directed away from the housing assembly312in a different manner. More specifically, it should be appreciated that in various alternative embodiments, each of the output beams26A-26E can be directed away from the housing assembly312in any desired direction(s), away from any surface(s)344A-344D of the housing assembly12, and/or through any housing aperture(s)324.

FIGS. 4A-4Fare simplified graphical illustrations of current and output for various potential selector settings of the light source assembly ofFIG. 1A. In particular,FIG. 4Ais a simplified graphical illustration of current (illustrated with a solid line) and output (illustrated with a dashed line) for a first selector setting429A wherein a first output beam26A (illustrated inFIG. 1A) from a long-wavelength infrared light source14A (illustrated inFIG. 1A) and a second output beam26B (illustrated inFIG. 1A) from a mid-wavelength infrared light source14B (illustrated inFIG. 1A) are generated in a pulsed and alternating manner;FIG. 4Bis a simplified graphical illustration of current (illustrated with a solid line) and output (illustrated with a dashed line) for a second selector setting429B wherein a first output beam26A from a long-wavelength infrared light source14A is generated in a pulsed manner;FIG. 4Cis a simplified graphical illustration of current (illustrated with a solid line) and output (illustrated with a dashed line) for a third selector setting429C wherein a second output beam26B from a mid-wavelength infrared light source14B is generated in a pulsed manner;FIG. 4Dis a simplified graphical illustration of current (illustrated with a solid line) and output (illustrated with a dashed line) for a fourth selector setting429D wherein a third output beam26C (illustrated inFIG. 1A) from a short-wavelength infrared light source14C is generated in a pulsed manner;FIG. 4Eis a simplified graphical illustration of current (illustrated with a solid line) and output (illustrated with a dashed line) for a fifth selector setting429E wherein a fourth output beam26D (illustrated inFIG. 1A) from a near-infrared light source14D (illustrated inFIG. 1A) is generated in a pulsed manner; andFIG. 4Fis a simplified graphical illustration of current (illustrated with a solid line) and output (illustrated with a dashed line) for a sixth selector setting429F wherein a fifth output beam26E (illustrated inFIG. 1A) from a visible light source14E (illustrated inFIG. 1A) is generated in a pulsed manner.

With reference toFIG. 4A, at the first selector setting429A, the controller18(illustrated inFIG. 1D) can selectively direct current from the power source20(illustrated inFIG. 1E) to the first light source14A (illustrated inFIG. 1A) in a first duty cycle450to generate the first output beam426A, and direct current from the power source20to the second light source14B (illustrated inFIG. 1A) in a second duty cycle452that is different from the first duty cycle to generate the second output beam426B. In particular, in this embodiment, the first duty cycle450consists of current being directed to the first light source14A for a first predetermined period of time and current not being directed to the first light source14A for a second predetermined period of time, wherein the first predetermined period of time is approximately equal in length to the second predetermined period of time. Conversely, in this embodiment, the second duty cycle452consists of current not being directed to the second light source14B for the first predetermined period of time and current being directed to the second light source14B for the second predetermined period of time. With this non-exclusive example, each of the first duty cycle450and the second duty cycle452is approximately fifty percent, e.g., with current being directed and not directed to the given light source14A,14B for a substantially equal period of time. Moreover, with this mode of operation, the first output beam426A and the second output beam426B can be generated and/or emitted from the light source assembly10in an alternating manner. Alternatively, each of the first duty cycle450and the second duty cycle452can be greater than or less than approximately fifty percent.

It should be noted that with the first selector setting429A, (i) the first light source14A and the second light source14B are on at different times (pulsed non-simultaneously); and (ii) the first output beam426A and the second output beam426B are non-simultaneous. Further, for the first selector setting429A illustrated inFIG. 4A, the first light source14A and the second light source14B are pulsed in one for one alternating fashion, with a single pulse of the first output beam426A being generated between two pulses of the second output beam426B. In non-exclusive other embodiments, the duty cycles can be designed so that during certain periods of time, (i) multiple pulses of the first output beam426A are being generated between two pulses of the second output beam426B; and/or (ii) multiple pulses of the second output beam426B are being generated between two pulses of the first output beam426A. This feature allows for the generation of messages using the pulses of the output beams426A,426B.

Additionally, as shown inFIG. 4B, at the second selector setting429B, the controller18(illustrated inFIG. 1D) can selectively direct current from the power source20(illustrated inFIG. 1E) to the first light source14A (illustrated inFIG. 1A) in the first duty cycle450A to generate the first output beam26A. In the non-exclusive embodiment illustrated inFIG. 4B, the first duty cycle450A is approximately fifty percent, e.g. the current is directed to the first light source14A for a predetermined period of time and alternately the current is not directed to the first light source14A for the same predetermined period of time. Alternatively, the first duty cycle450A can be greater than or less than fifty percent.

Somewhat similarly, as shown inFIG. 4C, at the third selector setting429C, the controller18(illustrated inFIG. 1D) can selectively direct current from the power source20(illustrated inFIG. 1E) to the second light source14B (illustrated inFIG. 1A) in a second duty cycle450B to generate the second output beam426B. In the non-exclusive embodiment illustrated inFIG. 4C, the second duty cycle450B is approximately fifty percent, e.g. the current is directed to the second light source14B for a predetermined period of time and alternately the current is not directed to the second light source14B for the same predetermined period of time. Alternatively, the second duty cycle450B can be greater than or less than fifty percent.

Further, as shown inFIG. 4D, at the fourth selector setting429D, the controller18(illustrated inFIG. 1D) can selectively direct current from the power source20(illustrated inFIG. 1E) to the third light source14C (illustrated inFIG. 1A) in a third duty cycle450C to generate the third output beam426C. In the non-exclusive embodiment illustrated inFIG. 4D, the third duty cycle450C is approximately fifty percent, e.g. the current is directed to the third light source14C for a predetermined period of time and alternately the current is not directed to the third light source14C for the same predetermined period of time. Alternatively, the third duty cycle450C can be greater than or less than fifty percent.

Still further, as shown inFIG. 4E, at the fifth selector setting429E, the controller18(illustrated inFIG. 1D) can selectively direct current from the power source20(illustrated inFIG. 1E) to the fourth light source14D (illustrated inFIG. 1A) in a fourth duty cycle450D to generate the fourth output beam426D. In the non-exclusive embodiment illustrated inFIG. 4E, the fourth duty cycle450D is approximately fifty percent, e.g. the current is directed to the fourth light source14D for a predetermined period of time and alternately the current is not directed to the fourth light source14D for the same predetermined period of time. Alternatively, the fourth duty cycle450D can be greater than or less than fifty percent.

Yet further, as shown inFIG. 4F, at the sixth selector setting429F, the controller18(illustrated inFIG. 1D) can selectively direct current from the power source20(illustrated inFIG. 1E) to the fifth light source14E (illustrated inFIG. 1A) in a fifth duty cycle450E to generate the fifth output beam426E. In the non-exclusive embodiment illustrated inFIG. 4F, the fifth duty cycle450E is approximately fifty percent, e.g. the current is directed to the fifth light source14E for a predetermined period of time and alternately the current is not directed to the fifth light source14E for the same predetermined period of time. Alternatively, the fifth duty cycle450E can be greater than or less than fifty percent.

FIG. 5is a simplified schematic illustration of another embodiment of the light source assembly510. The light source assembly510shown inFIG. 5is somewhat similar to, i.e. has many components in common with, the embodiments of the light source assembly illustrated and described in detail herein above.

However, in this embodiment, the light source assembly510has a slightly different overall design and includes certain additional components than what was specifically shown in the previous embodiments. For example, as illustrated, the light source assembly510includes a housing assembly512, and at least two sets of disparate light sources560, at least two optical assemblies562and a temperature control assembly564that are coupled to, secured to and/or retained substantially within the housing assembly512. Additionally, in this embodiment, the light source assembly510includes a control system566that is electrically connected to, e.g., with one or more wires568, but is spaced apart from and positioned remotely from, the housing assembly512and the at least two sets of disparate light sources560, the at least two optical assemblies562and the temperature control assembly564that are coupled to, secured to and/or retained substantially therein. Further, as shown, the control system566includes a controller518(illustrated in phantom), a power source520and a selector assembly522that are coupled to, secured to and/or retained substantially within a power/control housing570. Stated in another manner, in this embodiment, the controller518, the power source520and the selector assembly522are coupled to, secured to and/or retained substantially within the separate power/control housing570, and are electrically connected to, but are spaced apart from and positioned remotely from, the housing assembly512, and thus the at least two sets of disparate light sources560, the at least two optical assemblies562and the temperature control assembly564.

As provided herein, in this embodiment, the light source assembly510can include any suitable number of sets of disparate light sources560that are each configured to generate output (light) beams671(illustrated inFIG. 6B) that are directed in a different general axial direction, i.e. along and about a different central beam axis673(illustrated inFIG. 6B). For example, in one embodiment, the light source assembly510can be configured to include four sets of disparate light sources560, i.e. a first plurality of disparate light sources560A, a second plurality of disparate light sources560B, a third plurality of disparate light sources560C (illustrated inFIG. 6C), and a fourth plurality of disparate light sources560D (illustrated inFIG. 6C), that are each configured to generate output (light) beams671that are directed in a different general axial direction. More particularly, in this embodiment, the first plurality of disparate light sources560A is configured to generate first output (light) beams671A (illustrated inFIG. 6B) that are directed in a first general axial direction along and about a first central beam axis673A (illustrated inFIG. 6B); the second plurality of disparate light sources560B is configured to generate second output (light) beams671B (illustrated inFIG. 6B) that are directed in a second general axial direction along and about a second central beam axis673B (illustrated inFIG. 6B) that is different than the first general axial direction; the third plurality of disparate light sources560C is configured to generate third output (light) beams671C (illustrated inFIG. 6B) that are directed in a third general axial direction along and about a third central beam axis673C (illustrated inFIG. 6B) that is different than the first general axial direction and the second general axial direction; and the fourth plurality of disparate light sources560D is configured to generate fourth output (light) beams671D (illustrated inFIG. 6B) that are directed in a fourth general axial direction along and about a fourth central beam axis673D that is different than the first general axial direction, the second general axial direction and the third general axial direction.

As discussed in greater detail herein below, with such design, it is possible that the light source assembly510can generate output (light) beams671A-671D that provide substantially 360-degree azimuthal coverage about and/or relative to the housing assembly512. Stated in another manner, in such embodiments, the output beams671can be detectable in any and all azimuthal directions relative to the housing assembly512. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the light source assembly510can be configured to include greater than four or less than four sets of disparate light sources560. Still alternatively, the light source assembly510can generate output beams671that provide less than 360-degree azimuthal coverage about and/or relative to the housing assembly512. Yet alternatively, the light source assembly510can be configured such that only a single output light beam from a single light source is directed in any given direction away from the housing assembly512.

The housing assembly512can be any suitable size and shape for purposes of providing a housing for the sets of disparate light sources560, the optical assemblies562and the temperature control assembly564. For example, as shown in the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 5, the housing assembly512can be substantially octagonal disk-shaped. Alternatively, the housing assembly512can be substantially rectangular box-shaped, square box-shaped, cylindrical disk-shaped, hexagonal disk-shaped, pyramid-shaped, or another suitable shape.

Additionally, as shown, the housing assembly512can include a plurality of housing apertures572that are spaced apart from one another about a perimeter of the housing assembly512. For example, in this embodiment, a housing aperture572can extend through every other side of the substantially octagonal disk-shaped housing assembly512. The housing apertures572provide a means through which the output beams671that are generated by the sets of disparate light sources560can be directed out of and away from the housing assembly512.

In this embodiment, the housing assembly512includes a single housing aperture572for each plurality of disparate light sources560. More particularly, in this embodiment, the housing assembly512includes four housing apertures572, with one housing aperture572being positioned substantially adjacent to each of the sets of disparate light sources560, i.e. a first housing aperture572is positioned substantially adjacent to the first plurality of disparate light sources560A, a second housing aperture572is positioned substantially adjacent to the second plurality of disparate light sources560B, a third housing aperture572is positioned substantially adjacent to the third plurality of disparate light sources560C, and a fourth housing aperture572is positioned substantially adjacent to the fourth plurality of disparate light sources560D. As above, each housing aperture572can be aligned to allow for the emitting and directing of the corresponding plurality of disparate light sources560out of and/or away from the housing assembly512and away from the light source assembly510, such that the individual light sources can be quickly, easily and accurately detected by the detector assembly23(illustrated inFIG. 1A).

With such design, the general axial direction that the output beams671are directed for each of the sets of disparate light sources560can be substantially evenly spaced apart about the housing assembly512. Stated in another manner, in such embodiments, the central beam axes673A-673D can be substantially evenly spaced apart from one another. More particularly, in this embodiment that includes four housing apertures572and four sets of disparate light sources560, the general axial direction that the output beams671are directed for each of the sets of disparate light sources560can be approximately ninety degrees from the general axial direction of the output beams671of adjacent sets of disparate light sources560. Alternatively, in an embodiment that includes six sets of disparate light sources560, the general axial direction that the output beams671are directed for each of the sets of disparate light sources560can be approximately sixty degrees from the general axial direction of the output beams671of adjacent sets of disparate light sources560. Still alternatively, in an embodiment that includes three sets of disparate light sources560, the general axial direction that the output beams671are directed for each of the sets of disparate light sources560can be approximately one hundred twenty degrees from the general axial direction of the output beams671of adjacent sets of disparate light sources560.

It is appreciated that in different embodiments and applications, the sets of disparate light sources560need not be evenly spaced apart from one another, not each of the sets of disparate light sources560need to be activated or operational at any given time, and the sets of disparate light sources560need not provide approximately 360-degree azimuthal coverage about and/or relative to the housing assembly512. For example, in certain non-exclusive alternative embodiments, one or more of the sets of disparate light sources560can be activated or operated at any given time so as to provide at least approximately 180-degree, 210-degree, 240-degree, 270-degree, 300-degree, 330-degree or 360-degree azimuthal coverage about and/or relative to the housing assembly512. Additionally, in other non-exclusive alternative embodiments, the central beam axes673A-673D can be oriented and/or spaced apart at least approximately forty-five degrees, sixty degrees, seventy-five degrees, ninety degrees, one hundred five degrees, or one hundred twenty degrees from any adjacent central beam axes673A-673D.

The number, type, design, positioning and orientation of the disparate light sources within each plurality of disparate light sources560can be varied depending on the specific requirements of the light source assembly510. Additionally, as with the previous embodiments, each of the individual light sources within each plurality of disparate light sources560can be designed and/or individually tuned to provide an output beam671having a specific wavelength. Further, similar to above-described embodiments, each of the individual light sources can generate and/or emit an independent output beam.

Jumping ahead briefly toFIG. 6E,FIG. 6Eis a simplified schematic perspective view illustration of a portion of the light source assembly510illustrated inFIG. 5. In particular,FIG. 6Eshows the housing assembly512and the at least two sets of disparate light sources560, the at least two optical assemblies562and the temperature control assembly564that are coupled to, secured to and/or retained substantially therein, but with certain portions of the housing assembly512having been removed for purposes of clarity. More specifically,FIG. 6Eillustrates certain additional features and aspects of the sets of disparate light sources560.

In certain embodiments, each of the sets of disparate light sources560can include the same number of disparate light sources674. For example, as shown inFIG. 6E, each of the sets of disparate light sources560can include four disparate light sources674, i.e. a first light source674A, a second light source674B, a third light source674C, and a fourth light source674D. Alternatively, each of the sets of disparate light sources560can include greater than four or fewer than four disparate light sources674. Still alternatively, each of the sets of disparate light sources560can include a different number of disparate light sources674.

Additionally, each of the disparate light sources674can be designed and/or individually tuned to provide an output beam671(illustrated inFIG. 6B) having a specific wavelength. Moreover, each of the sets of disparate light sources560can include individual disparate light sources674that are designed and/or individually tuned to provide an output beam671having the same specific wavelength. Stated in another manner, in such embodiments, each of the sets of disparate light sources560can include (i) the first light source674A that generates and/or emits a first output beam671having a first center wavelength; (ii) the second light source674B that generates and/or emits a second output beam671having a second center wavelength that is different than the first center wavelength; (iii) the third light source674C that generates and/or emits a third output beam671having a third center wavelength that is different than the first center wavelength and the second center wavelength; and (iv) the fourth light source674D that generates and/or emits a fourth output beam671having a fourth center wavelength that is different than the first center wavelength, the second center wavelength and the third center wavelength. In some embodiments, each of the output beams671within each of the sets of disparate light sources560can be spaced apart from and substantially parallel to each of the other output beams671within that plurality of disparate light sources560. Alternatively, in other embodiments, one or more of the output beams671within each of the sets of disparate light sources560can be directed away from the housing assembly512at an angle relative to any of the other output beams671within that plurality of disparate light sources560, such that the output beams671are not parallel to one another.

Further, as above, in various embodiments, each of the output beams671can be viewable with the detector assembly23(illustrated inFIG. 1A). Stated in another manner, during use, the detector assembly23can selectively detect each of the output beams671that are generated and/or emitted by each of the light sources674A-674D within each of the sets of disparate light sources560.

Returning now toFIG. 5, in certain embodiments, the light source assembly510can include a separate optical assembly562that corresponds with each of the sets of disparate light sources560. As above, the optical assemblies562can be provided to enable any desired focusing, shaping and directing of the output beams671from each individual light source674A-674D (illustrated inFIG. 6E) within each of the sets of disparate light sources560. For example, in certain embodiments, each optical assembly562can include one or more optical elements662A (illustrated inFIG. 6E), e.g., one or more lenses, mirrors, diffractive optical elements and/or other optical elements, to enable any desired focusing, shaping and directing of the output beams671from each individual light source674A-674D within each of the sets of disparate light sources560. Additionally and/or alternatively, one or more optical elements662A of each optical assembly562can include a window designed such that the output beams671are not collimated, i.e. are uncollimated. Still alternatively, one or more of the output beams671can be directed away from the housing assembly512without the need for any optical elements.

Jumping ahead again toFIG. 6E, in some embodiments, the optical assembly562that corresponds to each of the sets of disparate light sources560can include a single optical element662A, e.g., a single lens, mirror, diffractive optical element, window and/or other optical element, to enable any desired focusing, shaping and directing of the output beams671from each of the sets of disparate light sources560. Stated in another manner, in such embodiments, each of the individual light sources674A-674D within each of the sets of disparate light sources560can generate output beams671that are directed toward and/or through a single lens, mirror, diffractive optical element, window and/or other optical element. Alternatively, the optical assembly562that corresponds to each of the sets of disparate light sources560can include more than one lens, mirror, diffractive optical element, window and/or other optical element to enable any desired focusing, shaping and directing of the output beams671from each of the sets of disparate light sources560. For example, in one non-exclusive alternative embodiment, the optical assembly562that corresponds to each of the sets of disparate light sources560can include one or more lenses, mirrors, diffractive optical elements, windows and/or other optical elements for each individual light source674A-674D within the respective plurality of disparate light sources560.

Returning once again back toFIG. 5, the temperature control assembly564is configured to control the heat that can be generated through the use of the light source assembly510. More specifically, in various embodiments, the temperature control assembly564is configured to help dissipate any heat generated during use of the light source assembly510, and/or to inhibit any such heat generated during use of the light source assembly510from adversely impacting any operations of the light source assembly510. Particular features and aspects that may be included within the temperature control assembly564will be described in greater detail herein below.

The control system566enables the necessary and desired control of the operation of the light source assembly510. More specifically, in various embodiments, the controller518enables the necessary and desired control of the operation of the light source assembly510, i.e. the selective operation of one or more of the individual light sources674A-674D of each of the sets of disparate light sources560, by selectively controlling the electrical power that is provided by the power source520to the light sources674A-674D. In certain applications, the controller518selectively directs current from the power source520to one or more of the light sources674A-674D based on the particular selections made by the operator via the selector assembly522. Additionally, as above, each of the individual light sources674A-674D of each of the sets of disparate light sources560can be operated in a pulsed mode of operation (and with any desired duty cycle) or in a continuous wave mode of operation.

The design of the controller518can be varied. In some embodiments, the controller518can include one or more processors and circuits that are electrically connected to the selector assembly522. With this design, the processors control the selective operation of each of the individual light sources674A-674D in each of the sets of disparate light sources560based on selections made by the operator via the selector assembly522. Additionally, as noted above, in certain embodiments, the controller18can direct power to one or more of the light sources674A-674D in a pulsed fashion to minimize heat generation in, and power consumption by the light sources674A-674D, while still achieving the desired average optical power of the output beams. This enables more efficient use of the power source520as well as helping to minimize the heat generated. As a result thereof, this increases the number of operational environments in which the light source assembly510can be used.

The power source520is coupled to, secured to, and/or positioned substantially within the power/control housing570. Additionally, the power source520is electrically connected to the controller518, the selector assembly522, the individual light sources674A-674D of each of the sets of disparate light sources560, and the temperature control assembly564. In various embodiments, the power source520provides the necessary and desired electrical power to effectively and efficiently operate the light source assembly510, e.g., to selectively activate and control one or more of the individual light sources674A-674D of each of the sets of disparate light sources560. In one non-exclusive alternative embodiment, the power source520can include a generator that is external to the power/control housing570, but is electrically coupled to the power/control housing570and the components coupled to, secured to, and/or positioned substantially therein. It is understood that any generator that may be used as part of the power source520can be of any suitable size. For example, the generator can be used solely as part of the light source assembly510or the generator can be used to operate one or more other systems and devices in addition to its use with the light source assembly510. For example, when the light source assembly510is utilized with or on a vehicle, the generator can be utilized to power various systems and devices within the vehicle. Alternatively, in another non-exclusive embodiment, the power source520can include one or more batteries that can be, but need not be, retained substantially within the power/control housing570. Still alternatively, in still another non-exclusive embodiment, the power source520can include a generator that is internal to the power/control housing570. Additionally, as shown, in any embodiments of the power source520, the power source520can be selectively activated and/or regulated through use of a power switch520A.

The selector assembly522is electrically connected to the controller518. For example, in some embodiments, the selector assembly522can include one or more switches and/or one or more dials that are each electrically connected to the controller518. In certain embodiments, the selector assembly522enables the user to selectively choose between a variety of potential modes of operation via a plurality of selector settings529. The potential modes of operation and/or the specific selector settings529can be varied to suit the specific design requirements of the light source assembly510. It should be appreciated that the potential modes of operation and/or selector settings529can include a combined and/or alternating use of any single or any combination of the individual light sources674A-674D of each of the sets of disparate light sources560. Additionally, as shown, the selector assembly522can include a separate switch522A for each of the individual light sources674A-674D (i.e. each band) of each of the sets of disparate light sources560. Further, in certain embodiments, the selector assembly522can be adjusted by the user to enable the selective adjustment of a pulse rate and/or duty cycle of the emission of the output beams671when the output beams671are generated and/or emitted in a pulsed mode of operation, and/or to enable one or more of the output beams671to be generated and/or emitted in a continuous wave mode of operation. Additionally, as noted above, it should be appreciated that utilizing a pulsed mode of operation can assist the light source assembly510in achieving more efficient and/or lower overall power usage by the power source520, and can further inhibit the undesired generation of heat within the light source assembly510.

FIG. 6Ais a simplified schematic perspective view illustration of a portion of the light source assembly510illustrated inFIG. 5. More particularly,FIG. 6Ais a simplified schematic perspective view illustration of the housing assembly512and the at least two sets of disparate light sources560, the at least two optical assemblies562, and the temperature control assembly564that are coupled to, secured to and/or retained substantially therein.

FIG. 6Bis another simplified schematic perspective view illustration of the portion of the light source assembly510illustrated inFIG. 6A. In particular,FIG. 6Bis a simplified schematic perspective view illustration that shows output beams671that have been emitted within each of the sets of disparate light sources560(illustrated inFIG. 5) and that are being directed away from the housing assembly512through one of the housing apertures572(illustrated more clearly inFIG. 5). More specifically,FIG. 6Billustrates (i) first output beams671A that have been emitted from the first plurality of disparate light sources560A (illustrated inFIG. 5); (ii) second output beams671B that have been emitted from the second plurality of disparate light sources560B (illustrated inFIG. 5); (iii) third output beams671C that have been emitted from the third plurality of disparate light sources560C (illustrated inFIG. 6C); and (iv) fourth output beams671D that have been emitted from the fourth plurality of disparate light sources560D (illustrated inFIG. 6C). As illustrated, and as noted above, the output beams671A-671D from each of the sets of disparate light sources560can at least slightly overlap one another such that the light source assembly510is able to provide substantially 360-degree azimuthal coverage about and/or relative to the housing assembly512. With such design, the detector assembly23(illustrated inFIG. 1A) is able to effectively capture and/or detect the signal from the light source assembly510regardless of the orientation of the light source assembly510, i.e. of the housing assembly512, relative to the detector assembly23, provided that the detector assembly23is close enough and is pointing generally toward the light source assembly510. Alternatively, as noted above, the output beams671A-671D from each of the sets of disparate light sources560can be configured to provide less than approximately 360-degree azimuthal coverage about and/or relative to the housing assembly512.

It is appreciated that the output beams671A-671D that are generated and/or emitted from each of the sets of disparate light sources560can include any single individual light source674A-674D or any combination of the individual light sources674A-674B from each of the sets of disparate light sources560. Additionally, as noted above, it is also appreciated that the output beams671A-671D can be generated and/or emitted from each of the sets of disparate light sources560in a pulsed mode of operation and/or in a continuous wave mode of operation.

FIG. 6Cis an exploded view illustration of the portion of the light source assembly510illustrated inFIG. 6A. As shown,FIG. 6Cillustrates certain specific features and aspects of the housing assembly512and the temperature control assembly564. Additionally,FIG. 6Calso illustrates a seal housing assembly676that can be included as part of the light source assembly510.

As illustrated in this embodiment, the housing assembly512can include a housing base678A and a housing cover678B that is secured to the housing base678A with a plurality of housing attachers678C. Additionally, the housing base678A and the housing cover678B can cooperate to create a housing cavity678D within which are positioned the sets of disparate light sources560, the optical assemblies562, the seal housing assembly676, and at least a portion of the temperature control assembly564.

In certain embodiments, as shown, the housing base678A can be substantially flat, octagonal plate-shaped. Additionally, the housing base678A can include a plurality of base apertures678E that are sized and shaped for receiving the plurality of housing attachers678C. In one such embodiment, one base aperture678E can be positioned near each corner of the housing base678A. Alternatively, the housing base678A can have another suitable shape.

Additionally, in this embodiment, the housing cover678B is provided in the form of an octagonal-shaped box top, with a size and shape that corresponds with the overall size and shape of the housing base678A. Further, the housing cover678B can include a plurality of cover apertures678F that are sized and shaped for receiving the plurality of housing attachers678C. In one such embodiment, one cover aperture678F can be positioned near each corner of the housing cover678B. Alternatively, the housing cover678B can have another suitable design, e.g., can have another suitable shape.

The plurality of housing attachers678C can have any suitable design for purposes of securing the housing cover678B to the housing base678A. For example, in some embodiments, the plurality of housing attachers678C can be provided in the form of screws or pins that extend into and/or through the plurality of base apertures678E and the plurality of cover apertures678F. More specifically, each of the plurality of base attachers678C can extend into and/or through one of the base apertures678E and one of the cover apertures678F. Alternatively, the housing base678A and the housing cover678B can be secured to one another in another suitable manner.

As noted above, the temperature control assembly564is configured to help dissipate any heat generated during use of the light source assembly510, and/or to inhibit any such heat generated during use of the light source assembly510from adversely impacting any operations of the light source assembly510. The temperature control assembly564can have any suitable design and can include any suitable components. For example, in various embodiments, as shown inFIG. 6C, the temperature control assembly564can include a fan664A, heat spreaders664B (or heat sink), and one or more vents664C. Alternatively, the temperature control assembly564can have a different design, i.e. can have more components, fewer components or simply different components than what is shown inFIG. 6C.

As shown, the fan664A can be positioned at least substantially within the housing assembly512. The fan664A can be selectively operated to help move heat away from the sets of disparate light sources560and/or to provide cooling air to the sets of disparate light sources560. In some applications, the operator of the light source assembly510can choose when to activate the fan664A. Additionally and/or alternatively, the light source assembly510can be designed such that the fan664A is automatically activated whenever the light source assembly510is in use or when the temperature inside the housing assembly512reaches a certain threshold value.

The heat spreaders664B help to spread and/or transfer heat from the light source assembly510, i.e. to effectively move heat away from the sets of disparate light sources560. More particularly, in one non-exclusive alternative embodiment, the heat spreaders664B can comprise a plurality of fins that provide greater surface area for the housing assembly512as a means to more effectively transfer heat away from the sets of disparate light sources560and/or other components of the light source assembly510and into the surrounding environment. In one embodiment, the heat spreaders664B can be integrally formed with the housing assembly512. More specifically, in such embodiment, the heat spreaders664B can be integrally formed as part of the housing base678A. Alternatively, the heat spreaders664B can be formed independently of the housing assembly512and can be subsequently coupled to the housing assembly512. Still alternatively, the heat spreaders664B can have a different design than that shown inFIG. 6C.

In this embodiment, the one or more vents664C can provide a passive means to allow heat to escape from within the housing cavity678D. In particular, in the embodiment shown inFIG. 6C, the one or more vents664C can be provided in the form of a plurality of holes that are formed in the housing cover678B. As heat is generated during the use of the light source assembly510, the heat will tend to rise and flow through the plurality of holes, i.e. the vent664C, formed in the housing cover678B. Alternatively, the one or more vents664C can have another suitable design and/or can be formed in a different part of the housing assembly512.

The seal housing assembly676is configured to provide a sealed environment about the individual light sources674A-674D and each of the sets of disparate light sources560. In certain embodiments, as shown, the seal housing assembly676can be substantially annular-shaped and can be positioned to substantially encircle the individual light sources674A-674D and each of the sets of disparate light sources560. With such design, the light sources674A-674D and the sets of disparate light sources560can be better protected from environmental conditions, e.g., conditions found in a maritime environment. For example, the seal housing assembly676can inhibit corrosion of the individual light sources674A-674D and each of the sets of disparate light sources560, which may otherwise adversely impact the operation of the light source assembly510in some environments, e.g., in maritime environments.

FIG. 6Dis a cutaway view of the portion of the light source assembly510taken on line D-D inFIG. 6A. More specifically,FIG. 6Dillustrates more details about the design of the housing assembly512, and the design and positioning of the at least two sets of disparate light sources560and the temperature control assembly564that are coupled to, secured to and/or retained substantially within the housing assembly512.

FIG. 6Eis a simplified schematic perspective view illustration of another portion of the light source assembly510illustrated inFIG. 5. In particular,FIG. 6Eagain shows the housing assembly512and the at least two sets of disparate light sources560, the at least two optical assemblies562and the temperature control assembly564that are coupled to, secured to and/or retained substantially therein, but with certain portions of the housing assembly512, i.e. the housing cover678B, having been removed for purposes of clarity. Additionally, as noted above,FIG. 6Ealso illustrates an embodiment of the individual light sources674A-674D that can be included as part of each of the sets of disparate light sources560.

FIG. 7Ais a simplified schematic perspective view illustration of a portion of another embodiment of the light source assembly710. The light source assembly710is substantially similar to the light source assembly510illustrated and described above in relation toFIGS. 5 and 6A-6E. For example, the light source assembly710again includes a housing assembly712, and at least two sets of disparate light source760, at least two optical assemblies762and a temperature control assembly764that are somewhat similar to what was illustrated and described in relation toFIGS. 5 and 6A-6E.

However, in this embodiment, the housing assembly712and each of the optical assemblies762are slightly different than in the preceding embodiment. More particularly, in this embodiment, the housing assembly712includes a separate housing aperture772for the output beams771(illustrated inFIG. 7B) generated and/or emitted from each of the individual light sources674(illustrated inFIG. 6E) for each of the sets of disparate light sources760. Additionally, each individual light source674of each of the sets of disparate light sources760includes an individual optical assembly762. Stated in another manner, each individual light source674of each of the sets of disparate light sources760includes one or more lenses, mirrors, diffractive optical elements, windows, etc. for any desired focusing, shaping and directing of the output beams771from each of the sets of disparate light sources760.

FIG. 7Bis another simplified schematic perspective view illustration of the portion of the light source assembly710illustrated inFIG. 7A. In particular,FIG. 7Bis a simplified schematic perspective view illustration that shows output beams771that have been emitted within each of the sets of disparate light sources760(illustrated inFIG. 7A) and that are being directed away from the housing assembly712through the housing apertures772(illustrated inFIG. 7A). More specifically,FIG. 7Billustrates (i) first output beams771A that have been emitted from the first plurality of disparate light sources760; (ii) second output beams771B that have been emitted from the second plurality of disparate light sources760; (iii) third output beams771C that have been emitted from the third plurality of disparate light sources760; and (iv) fourth output beams771D that have been emitted from the fourth plurality of disparate light sources760. As with the previous embodiment, the output beams771A-771B can be positioned and oriented to provide at least nearly 360-degree coverage about and/or relative to the housing assembly712. With such design, the detector assembly23(illustrated inFIG. 1A) is able to effectively capture and/or detect the signal from the light source assembly710regardless of the orientation of the light source assembly710, i.e. of the housing assembly712, relative to the detector assembly23, provided that the detector assembly23is close enough and is pointing generally toward the light source assembly710. Alternatively, as noted above, the output beams771A-771D from each of the sets of disparate light sources760can be configured to provide less than approximately 360-degree azimuthal coverage about and/or relative to the housing assembly712.

FIG. 8is a simplified schematic illustration of a maritime vehicle880with a light source assembly810, e.g., the light source assembly510illustrated inFIG. 5or the light source assembly710illustrated inFIG. 7A, mounted thereon. In particular,FIG. 8illustrates the control system866(illustrated in phantom) being positioned inside the maritime vehicle880, and the remainder of the light source assembly810, i.e. the housing assembly812and all of the components retained substantially therein, mounted to an elevated external portion of the maritime vehicle880. With such design and positioning of the light source assembly810, the output beams881from the light source assembly810can be easily detected by a detector assembly23(illustrated inFIG. 1A) regardless of the orientation of the light source assembly810, i.e. of the housing assembly812, relative to the detector assembly23, provided that the detector assembly23is close enough and is pointing generally toward the light source assembly810.

It is understood that although a number of different embodiments of a light source assembly have been illustrated and described herein, one or more features of any one embodiment can be combined with one or more features of one or more of the other embodiments, provided that such combination satisfies the intent of the present invention.