Traffic warning systems, methods, and devices

A lighting device may include a body including a front cavity and a back cavity, and a bottom face between the front cavity and the back cavity. The lighting device may also include multiple lights, with at least one of the lights disposed within the front cavity, and at least one of the lights disposed within the back cavity. The lighting device may additionally include a coupling device, such as a female threaded component, configured to interface directly with an attachment mechanism atop a traffic cone. The coupling device may be disposed on the bottom face of the body.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to improved traffic warning systems, methods, and devices.

BACKGROUND

For the past 100 years, Police, Emergency Services, and Traffic Control have been relying on flammable warning torches that look very much like sticks of dynamite. Police officers and other related services personnel are burning holes in their uniforms on a regular basis. That method is very inefficient, expensive, environmentally unfriendly, time consuming, and dangerous.

SUMMARY

One or more embodiments of the present disclosure may include a lighting device with a body including a front cavity and a back cavity, and a bottom face between the front cavity and the back cavity. The lighting device may also include multiple lights, with at least one of the lights disposed within the front cavity, and at least one of the lights disposed within the back cavity. The lighting device may additionally include a coupling device, such as a female threaded component, configured to interface directly with an attachment mechanism atop a traffic cone. The coupling device may be disposed on the bottom face of the body.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are merely examples and explanatory and are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed.

Additional features and advantages of the disclosure will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by the practice of the disclosure. The features and advantages of the disclosure may be realized and obtained by means of the instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. These and other features of the present disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the disclosure as set forth hereinafter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to devices, methods, and/or systems utilized in providing traffic warning systems utilizing lighting devices. Such devices may be used by police, emergency services, construction workers, traffic control, private individuals, or any other entity to facilitate information, safety, and/or guidance to others. For example, the lighting devices consistent with the present disclosure may be placed in closed traffic lanes, for emergency roadside situations, for traffic direction, etc. Devices and/or systems or methods of the present disclosure may be designed to accommodate the need for police, emergency services, and/or traffic control personnel, in the event of an accident, to quickly deploy an effective, efficient traffic control safety zone for the victims, the public and themselves.

Embodiments of the present disclosure are explained with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1Cillustrate various views of an example traffic warning system100(the views of the system100distinguishable as the system100a,100b, and100c), including a traffic cone120and a cone attachment member110, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The cone attachment member110may be disposed atop the traffic cone120.FIG. 1Aillustrates an exploded view of the traffic cone120and the cone attachment member110.FIG. 1Billustrates a perspective view of the traffic cone120and the cone attachment member110fixedly coupled to each other.FIG. 1Cillustrates a side view of the entire traffic cone120with the cone attachment member110fixedly coupled thereto.

As illustrated inFIG. 1A, the cone attachment member110may include one or more features acting as an attachment mechanism such that various devices or components may be removably coupled with the traffic cone120via the cone attachment member110. In some embodiments, such as that illustrated inFIGS. 1A-1C, the cone attachment member110may include a lip112and/or a threaded portion114acting as the attachment mechanism. In these and other embodiments, the cone attachment member110as illustrated in FIGS.1A-1C may be referred to as a male connecting member, such as a male threaded member, as the male connecting member may be configured to interface with and received within a corresponding female component (such as a nut (acting as the female component) and a bolt (acting as the male component)).

In some embodiments, by using the threaded portion114in conjunction with the lip112, as the cone attachment member110is threaded into a corresponding female threaded member, as the threads progress the interference fit increases to securely attach a component to the cone attachment member110. As the threaded portions114is completely interlocked with a corresponding female component, a lip on the female component and the lip112on the cone attachment member110may be required to be forced past each other to lock the two components together. In such an embodiment, a more secure connection is established as an increased force must be exerted to decouple the male and female components as compared to threaded male and female components without corresponding lips, including the lip112.

In some embodiments, the cone attachment member110may include one or more flanges116to facilitate coupling the cone attachment member110with the traffic cone120. For example, the traffic cone120may include one or more openings126that may correspond to the flanges116of the cone attachment member110. Additionally or alternatively, the traffic cone120may include flanges and the cone attachment member may include corresponding openings.

In some embodiments, the cone attachment member110may be fixedly coupled with the traffic cone120in any of a variety of ways. For example, the cone attachment member110may be formed of a high temperature plastic and the traffic cone120may be molded directly to the cone attachment member110. As another example, the cone attachment member110may be placed in direct physical contact with the traffic cone120and the traffic cone120may be melted, welded, or otherwise physically coupled to the cone attachment member110. In some embodiments, the effect of such coupling between the cone attachment member110and the traffic cone120may result in the cone attachment member110and the traffic cone120becoming a single unitary body.

In some embodiments, the cone attachment member110may be coupled to the traffic cone120after the traffic cone120is completely formed and may already be in use. In these and other embodiments, the cone attachment member110may be inserted inside of the traffic cone120from the bottom and forced up through a top hole in the traffic cone120such that the flanges project into the openings126. As another example, such as when the traffic cone120includes flanges, the cone attachment member110may be forced downward on the traffic cone120until the flanges from the traffic cone120project into the openings of the cone attachment member110. While various examples have been provided, it is appreciated that any coupling technique may be utilized to combine the cone attachment member110with the traffic cone120such that a device may be coupled to the traffic cone120via the cone attachment member110.

In some embodiments the cone attachment member110may include a top hole118that is configured to correspond to a cone hole at the top of the traffic cone120. In these and other embodiments, the cone attachment member110may be shaped to interface with multiple devices, and/or facilitate devices being inserted through the top hole118(such as the lighting device illustrated inFIGS. 9A-9E) and thus inside of the traffic cone120, as well as being coupled to the male component of the attachment mechanism (e.g., the threaded portion114and/or the lip112) via a single component.

Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the system100without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the system100may include more or fewer elements than those illustrated inFIGS. 1A-1C. As another example, any type of attachment mechanism may be used by the cone attachment member110. An example of an alternative attachment mechanism is illustrated inFIGS. 13A-13B. As another example, while the cone attachment member110is illustrated as utilizing a male threaded component, it is readily within the scope of the present disclosure that a female threaded component may be used.

FIGS. 2A and 2Billustrate an example cone cap210, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The cone cap210may be shaped and/or configured to interface with a cone attachment member, such as the cone attachment member110ofFIGS. 1A-1C.

As illustrated inFIGS. 2A and 2B, the cone cap210may include a metal disk212on the top of the cone cap, a threaded portion214within the cone cap210, ridges216on the outside of the cone cap210, and band218outside of the metal disk212on the top of the cone cap210.

The metal disk212may be made of a metal that is attracted to magnets, such as a ferrous metal, although any other material attracted to magnets may be utilized, such as iron, nickel, cobalt, alloys thereof, lodestone, etc. In these and other embodiments, the metal disk212may operate as an attachment mechanism for one or more devices to a cone to which the cone cap210is coupled. In some embodiments, the metal disk212may itself be magnetized such that any ferromagnetic object may be coupled to the top of a cone via the cone cap210. WhileFIGS. 2A and 2Billustrate the metal disk on top of the cone cap210, it is appreciated that any other device or component to function as an attachment mechanism may be coupled to or formed in the top of the cone cap210.

In some embodiments, the metal disk212may be configured to operate as an electrode to provide power to a device coupled to the cone cap210. For example, the metal disk212may pass completely through the cone cap210and be in contact with a power source, such as a battery or wire, of a device or component disposed within the cone cap210proximate the threaded portion214. For example, a lighting device, battery device, or other device may interface with the threaded portion214of the cone cap and may have an electrical connector that is to interface with the metal disk212when securely coupled to the cone cap210. In this manner, the lighting device or battery device may provide power to a device coupled to the cone cap210.

The threaded portion214within the cone cap210may operate as a female portion of a coupling mechanism. For example, the inner threaded portion214of the cone cap210may interface directly with the threaded portion114of the cone attachment member110ofFIGS. 1A-1C. In these and other embodiments, the cone cap210may include a lip at the end of the threaded portion214that may correspond to the lip112of the cone attachment member110ofFIGS. 1A-1C, such that the lip at the end of the threaded portion214is to pass the lip112when forming a secure coupling between the cone cap210and the cone attachment member110.

In some embodiments, if the cone attachment member110utilizes a female threaded component, the cone cap210may utilize a male threaded component. For example, the cone cap210may function as a threaded plug rather than a cap.

The ridges216may facilitate grip for a user when coupling the cone cap210to a cone attachment member.

The band218may provide a decorative effect, may provide a company name or other identifier, or may provide some other aesthetic benefit. Additionally or alternatively, the band218may serve a functional aspect. For example, the band218may act as a cushion or padding for a device or component coupled to the cone cap210via the metal disk212. As another example, if the metal disk212operates as an electrode, the band218may also operate as an insulator or an electrode, and may be made of different and appropriate materials depending on the use. For example, the band218may act as an insulator for the metal disk212. As another example, the body of the cone cap210may act as an insulator and the band218may act as another electrode, e.g., the metal disk212may operate as a positive terminal and the band218may act as a negative terminal, or vice versa. In such an embodiment, the band218may extend through the entire body or at least portions of the cone cap210and be shaped or configured to interface with a device coupled to the cone cap210and proximate the threaded portion214.

In some embodiments, the band218may be made of a magnetized material with an opposite polarity from the metal disk212. For example a device with a magnet with a north pole oriented outwards on the bottom of the device may be guided and centered on the cone cap210if the metal disk has a south pole oriented outwards and the band218has a north pole oriented outwards, such that the magnet of the device is repelled away from the band218while simultaneously being attracted to the metal disk212.

Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the cone cap210without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the cone cap210may include more or fewer elements than those illustrated inFIGS. 2A and 2B. As another example, any type of attachment mechanism may be used by the cone cap210. As an additional example, the cone cap210may omit the band218, the ridges216, or other components.

FIG. 2Cillustrates another example traffic warning system200that includes the cone cap210ofFIGS. 2A and 2B, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. As illustrated inFIG. 2C, the cone cap210may interface with the cone attachment member110(not seen) atop the traffic cone120. In this way, the hole of the traffic cone120may be capped. Additionally, the cone cap210may facilitate coupling a device to the traffic cone120that utilizes an attachment mechanism consistent with the cone cap210but inconsistent with the cone attachment member110.

Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the system200without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the system200may include more or fewer elements than those illustrated inFIG. 2C. As another example, the system200may include a device coupled to the cone cap210.

FIGS. 3A and 3Billustrate an example lighting device300a, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The lighting device300amay include a body with a front cavity310and a back cavity320. The front cavity may include one or more light-emitting devices (such as a panel or array of light-emitting diodes (LEDs)). In some embodiments, the front cavity310may include multiple panels of LEDs facing the front of the lighting device300a. The back cavity320may include one or more light-emitting devices (such as a panel or array of light-emitting diodes (LEDs)). In some embodiments, the back cavity320may include multiple panels of LEDs facing the front of the lighting device300a.

In some embodiments, the lighting device300amay include one or more buttons or other user interface components. For example, a first button312may be positioned towards the front of the lighting device300a, and a second button322may be positioned towards the back of the lighting device300a. By interacting with the buttons, operation of the lighting device300amay be invoked or modified. For example, pressing the first button312once may turn lights of the lighting device300aon; pressing the first button312a second time and/or successive presses may transition between pre-programmed light patterns or flashing techniques (e.g., solid white light, flashing white light, flashing red and blue, random flashing, etc.) for the lights of the lighting device300a; pressing the first button312a third time (or pressing and holding the first button312, etc.) may turn the lights of the lighting device300aoff. In some embodiments, interacting with the first button312may affect operation of lights in the front cavity310of the lighting device300aand the second button322may affect operation of the back cavity320of the lighting device300a. While example modifications of operation have been provided, any type, duration, pattern, etc. of interacting with the buttons312and/or322is contemplated. Additionally, the operations/interactions of the lights of the front cavity310and the lights of the back cavity320may be different. For example, the lights of the front cavity310may operate among various flashing patterns and the lights of the back cavity320may operate in a mode of being solidly on without flashing.

In some embodiments, the lighting device300amay include a power source such as a rechargeable battery to power lighting device300a. In these and other embodiments, the lighting device300amay include a coupling mechanism between the rechargeable battery disposed within the body of the lighting device300a, and a power source external to the body of the lighting device300a, such as one or more electrodes (examples of which are illustrated inFIGS. 4A and 4B). In some embodiments, the lighting device300amay include a rechargeable battery or batteries with sufficient power to operate the lighting device300aat maximum brightness for a designated period of time, such as approximately two hours, three hours, four hours, five hours, eight hours, etc. In some embodiments, the duration of run time may be based on one or more regulations.

As illustrated inFIG. 3B, the lighting device300amay include one or more removable covers370(such as the removable covers370aand370b). The removable covers370may permit access to the body of the lighting device300a. For example, the removable covers may be unscrewed and removed to access the internal components of the lighting device300a, such as the rechargeable battery/batteries of the lighting device300a. In some embodiments, the removable covers370may be lined with a material to facilitate the water resistance, water proof, dust proof, mold proof, aspects of the lighting device300a.

One or more benefits of methods, systems, or devices consistent with the present disclosure include an ability to quickly deploy lighting devices that include the longevity of run time of the lighting device300a, and adequate brightness to give oncoming distracted drivers early stage notice that the drivers are coming upon an accident. In some embodiments, the lighting device300amay be designed to meet requirements of one or more regulatory bodies, such as the Department of Transportation (DOT) or their equivalent. For example, such regulatory bodies may include specifications to have lights attached to traffic cones with a locking system that may prohibit the lighting device300afrom becoming a flying projectile in the event of the traffic cone being hit by on oncoming vehicle. In some embodiments, the lighting device300amay operate as a first responder warning system, and may be designed specifically for first responders.

In some embodiments, the panels of LEDs may include one or multiple colors of LEDs. The lighting device300amay be configured to emit light in a specific color, in a specific pattern, or both. An example of such a panel of LEDs is illustrated inFIG. 6.

In addition to or alternative to the buttons312and/or322on a top face of the lighting device300a, the top face may include a window340. The window340may operate to provide access or communication between a wireless communication device of the lighting device300aand a remote device. For example, an infrared (IR) transmitter may send signals to the lighting device300aregarding operation thereof, and may be received through the window340. In these and other embodiments, the body of the lighting device300amay be made of a material that blocks or attenuates wireless communication signals. While the use of IR is described, any other wireless communication modality is also contemplated, such as Near Field Communications (NFC), BLUETOOTH®, radio frequency (RF), etc.

In some embodiments, the lighting device300amay utilize a steady-on white light. In these and other embodiments, the lighting device300acan be used to light a helicopter landing zone, a trail for first responders, or a vehicle that has gone off the side of the road and needs to have lights attached to it that helps other Emergency Service Responders to see the accident and respond accordingly. In some embodiments, the lighting device300amay be utilized in situations and/or circumstances where flammable flares will not work.

As illustrated inFIG. 3B, the lighting device300a, may include one or more features to operate as an attachment mechanism such that the lighting device300amay be coupled to a traffic cone. For example, the bottom face of the lighting device300aincludes a threaded portion360. The threaded portion360may operate as a female threaded coupling mechanism to interface with a male threaded coupling, such as the male threaded coupling of the cone attachment member110ofFIGS. 1A and 1B. In some embodiments, the threaded portion360may include a lip362towards the end of the threaded portion360that may interface with a lip of the male threaded coupling, such as with the lip112of the cone attachment member110ofFIGS. 1A and 1B. As with the cone cap210ofFIGS. 2A and 2B, the interaction of the lips at the end of the threaded interactions may lock the lighting device300ato a traffic cone.

Rather than a female threaded portion, in some embodiments the lighting device300amay include a male portion of an attachment mechanism to couple with a traffic cone. For example, the male portion may include a male threaded portion, or posts that may interact with slots or grooves in a female portion associated with the traffic cone such that the lighting device300amay be twisted and then locked into place.

In some embodiments, the attachment mechanism of the lighting device300a(e.g., the threaded portion360) may be utilized to couple the lighting device300ato any other device or component, such as a charging device, an extended battery pack, and/or a secondary light. In these and other embodiments, the other device or component may include the complementary attachment mechanism.

In some embodiments, the attachment mechanism, may include a slope to the threaded portion360. For example, the threaded portion360may slope inwardly or outwardly and a cone attachment member to which the threaded portion360interfaces may have a corresponding but opposite slope, or a slope that is varied from the slope of the threaded portion360(e.g., varied by 5%, 10%, or 15%). In some embodiments, by utilizing the variation in slope, as the devices are screwed together, the interference fit may become tighter and tighter due to the variation in slope between the two interfacing components.

In some embodiments, the lighting device300amay be configured in any size or shape. For example, as illustrated inFIGS. 3A and 3B, the lighting device300amay include a slightly convex curved front and back edge of the body, and a slightly concave curved side portion of the body. In some embodiments, the lighting device300amay be between 100 and 150 mm in length and in width, and between approximately 30 and 60 mm in height. In some embodiments, the lighting device300amay be approximately 127 mm in length and 121 mm in width. Additionally or alternatively, the lighting device300amay be approximately 51 mm in height.

In some embodiments, the body of the lighting device300amay be made of a durable material able to receive an impact and still be operable. For example, the lighting device300amay be made of a material such as a high impact nylon material. Additionally or alternatively, the lighting device300amay include a durable and clear material covering the lights themselves, such as polycarbonate clear lenses. In some embodiments, the lighting device300amay be constructed or treated in a manner to be water resistant or waterproof. For example, the lighting device300amay be sonic welded and sealed to increase water resistance.

In some embodiments, the lighting device300amay include a charging indicator for the lighting device300a, such as LEDs or other indicators that may be activated to indicate whether or not the lighting device300ais charging and/or a state of charge (e.g., 25%, 50%, 75%, 100% charged).

As illustrated inFIG. 3B, in some embodiments, the lighting device300amay include one or more magnets, such as magnets350and352, coupled to the bottom face of the lighting device300a. In these and other embodiments, the magnets350and352may be configured to be strong enough to keep the lighting device300asecurely attached to a metal surface, whether in a sideways or even upside down configuration. For example, the lighting device300amay utilize the magnets350and/or352to be coupled to a vehicle such as an automobile, or some other metal surface like a guard rail. In these and other embodiments, the magnets350and/or352may extend further away from the bottom face of the lighting device300athan any other components, such as the removable covers370. Such extension may be any size, for example, from 0.0 mm to 5.0 mm, such as 0.5 mm.

Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the lighting device300awithout departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the lighting device300amay include more or fewer elements than those illustrated inFIGS. 3A and 3B. As another example, any type of attachment mechanism may be used by the lighting device300a. As an additional example, the lighting device300amay take any shape or form and still be consistent with the present disclosure.

FIG. 3Cillustrates an additional example traffic warning system300cthat includes the lighting device300aofFIGS. 3A and 3B, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, as illustrated inFIG. 3C, the lighting device300amay be coupled to the cone120via the attachment member110ofFIG. 1A(not seen inFIG. 3C).

Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the system300cwithout departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the system300cmay include more or fewer elements than those illustrated inFIG. 3C.

FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4Cillustrate views of bottom faces of various example lighting devices400a,400b, and400c, respectively, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The lighting devices400a,400b, and400cmay be similar or comparable to the lighting device300aofFIGS. 3A and 3B, with variations as described below.

FIG. 4Aillustrates the lighting device400athat may include magnets450aand452aoriented towards a front cavity410aand a back cavity420a, respectively, of the lighting device400a. The magnets450aand452amay operate in a similar or comparable manner and for a similar or comparable purpose as the magnets350and352ofFIG. 3B.

The lighting device400aadditionally includes a threaded portion460athat may be similar or comparable to the threaded portion360ofFIGS. 3A and 3B. At a base of the threaded portion, the lighting device400amay include electrode(s)480afor charging the lighting device400a. For example, the electrodes480amay span a body of the lighting device400asuch that a rechargeable battery within the lighting device400amay be electrically coupled to an external electricity source to recharge the rechargeable battery. Additionally or alternatively, the electrodes may couple to a secondary lighting device to power the secondary lighting device. As another example, the electrodes may couple to an extended battery pack to extend the operating life of the lighting device400a.

FIG. 4Billustrates the lighting device400b. The lighting device400bmay include a similar or comparable, front cavity410b, back cavity420b, threaded portion460b, and magnets450band452bto the front cavity410a, back cavity420a, threaded portion460a, and magnets450aand452a, respectively ofFIG. 4A.

The electrode(s)480bofFIG. 4Bare illustrated as two plates, rather than two contact points as illustrated for the electrodes480ainFIG. 4A. Either are viable options and may be used as electrodes for electrically coupling the lighting devices400a/400bto another device or component.

The magnets450band452bare oriented at the sides of the threaded portion460b, rather than towards the front or the back of the threaded portion460aas illustrated inFIG. 4A.

The lighting device400bmay include one or more lights491band492b. The lights491band492bmay be disposed on the bottom face of the lighting device400band far enough away from the threaded portion460bthat when coupled to a traffic cone, the lights491band/or492bmay illuminate the traffic cone from the outside by shining light on the outside surface of the traffic cone. The lights491band/or492bmay be controlled in operation in a similar or comparable manner to the lights of the front cavity310and/or the back cavity320of the lighting device300aofFIGS. 3A and 3B. For example, the lights491band/or492bmay be optionally powered on, powered off, or set to emit light in a certain pattern, such as blinking with various amounts of delay between blinks and/or duration when the light is on.

FIG. 4Cillustrates the lighting device400c. The lighting device400cmay include a front cavity410c, back cavity420c, magnets450cand452c, threaded portion460c, and electrodes480c, similar or comparable to the front cavity410a, back cavity420a, magnets450aand452a, threaded portion460a, and electrodes480a, respectively, ofFIG. 4A.

As illustrated inFIG. 4C, in some embodiments, the base of the threaded portion460cmay include one or more lights490cconfigured to illuminate an inside of a traffic cone. For example, the lights490cmay be oriented such that as they are powered, they shine light down into a space within a traffic cone to which the lighting device400cis coupled. In some embodiments, various components or devices may be used to direct the light towards the periphery of the cone, or such that the light is directed out and away from the cone, rather than towards the ground upon which the cone is resting.

Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the lighting devices400a,400b, and/or400cwithout departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the lighting devices400a,400b, and/or400cmay include more or fewer elements than those illustrated inFIGS. 4A, 4B, and/or4C. Additionally, any variation or combination of features may be included in a lighting device consistent with the present disclosure. For example, a lighting device may include a male threaded portion rather than a female threaded portion as the attachment mechanism for coupling the lighting device to a traffic cone. In such an embodiment, lights on the attachment mechanism (e.g., the male threaded portion) may already be extended down into the traffic cone and so may be aimed or otherwise oriented towards a side of the cone. As another example, a lighting device may include magnets at the sides and the front, or lights on the outside of the cone and the inside of the threaded portion.

FIGS. 5A and 5Billustrate an additional example lighting device500a, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The lighting device500amay operate in a comparable or similar manner to the lighting device300aofFIGS. 3A and 3B. For example, the lighting device500amay include lights in a front cavity510that may be powered on and/or set to a pattern of operation. As another example, the lighting device500amay include one or more back cavities520(such as the back cavities520aand520b) with lights thereof that may be powered on and/or set to a pattern of operation. In some embodiments, the lights of the back cavities520aand520bmay operate independently of each other. As illustrated inFIGS. 5A and 5B, in some embodiments the front cavity510may be oriented in a different facing direction than the back cavities520aand/or520b, while the lighting device300aofFIGS. 3A and 3Bmay have the front cavity310and the back cavity320oriented in generally the same direction, although with openings facing generally opposite directions.

As illustrated inFIGS. 5A and 5B, the lighting device500amay utilize a magnet550to operate as an attachment mechanism to couple the lighting device500ato a traffic cone. For example, the magnet550may be shaped and oriented to couple with the metal disk212of the cone cap210ofFIG. 2A. Additionally or alternatively, the magnet550may be replaced with a metal component configured to interface and couple with a magnet associated with a traffic cone.

In some embodiments, the lighting device500amay include a removable casing560that may allow access to the internal components of the lighting device500a. For example, the removable casing560may cover a battery compartment in which single use or rechargeable batteries may be accessed.

FIG. 5Cillustrates an additional example traffic warning system500cthat includes the lighting device500aofFIGS. 5A and 5Bcoupled to a traffic cone120, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, the traffic cone120may have a cone cap210coupled thereto. The metal disk212of the cone cap may interface with the magnet550to securely couple the lighting device500ato the traffic cone120via the cone cap210. In some embodiments, the cone cap210may include a magnet with the same polarity as the magnet550in a band along the outside of the cone cap210such that the magnet550is guided towards the middle of the cone cap210.

Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the lighting device500aand/or the traffic warning system500cwithout departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the lighting device500aand/or the system500cmay include more or fewer elements than those illustrated inFIGS. 5A-5C. For example, the lighting device500amay be modified to include any of the features described above with reference to the lighting devices300aand/or400a-400c.

FIG. 6illustrates an example array of lights600of a lighting device, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The array of lights600may be deployed in one of the cavities of the lighting devices of the present disclosure, such as the front cavities310,410a-c, and/or510, and/or the back cavities320,420a-c, and/or520a-b.

In some embodiments, the array of lights600may include a red light610, blue light620, white light630, and/or orange/amber light640. In some embodiments, the array of lights600may include light-emitting diode (LED) lights, organic LEDs (OLEDs), incandescent lights, fluorescent (e.g., compact fluorescent (CF)), etc. In some embodiments, the lights may be arranged in the following pattern:

RedRedRedRedRedRedOrangeOrangeOrangeOrangeOrangeOrangeWhiteWhiteWhiteWhiteWhiteWhiteBlueBlueBlueBlueBlueBlue
Such a pattern may allow for bouncing patterns between colors (e.g., a top left “Red” and a bottom right “Blue”).

Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the array of lights600without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the array of lights600may include more or fewer elements than those illustrated inFIG. 6. For example, the array of lights600may be modified to include any number of lights with any number of colors. Additionally, the array of lights600may be configured in any shape or profile. For example, as illustrated inFIG. 4C, the array may cover a circular area with the individual lights in a star-shaped configuration. Any shape is contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7illustrates another example traffic warning system including an example case700, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The case700may be configured to hold and/or carry multiple lighting devices712, such as lighting device712a.

The case700may include a lid720that may be movable to access the lighting devices712within the case. In some embodiments, the case700may include one or more trays710of the lighting devices712. In some embodiments, the trays710may be removable from the case700. The trays710may interface with a dock730within the case700. The dock may include a physical coupling to lock the tray710into the case700, such as with snaps, interlocking members, an interference fit, etc. Additionally or alternatively, the tray710may be electrically coupled to the case700via the dock730. For example, the dock730may include electrical connectors such that electrical power associated with the case700may be utilized by the tray710and/or lighting devices712coupled to the tray710. In some embodiments, the case may include a rechargeable unit, such as a battery740, and/or a power cord750. The power from the case700may recharge a battery of the tray710, and/or recharge the lighting devices712. In some embodiments, the case700may provide power to recharge one or more lighting devices712, extended battery packs, and/or secondary lights. In some embodiments, the tray710and/or the case700may be configured to charge one or more components, light devices712, extended battery packs, secondary lights, etc. via inductive charging. Additionally or alternatively, the tray710and/or the case700may include an electrode or other contact point configured to contact a corresponding electrode or contact point on the light devices712, extended battery packs, secondary lights, etc. to transfer electricity from the tray710and/or the case700.

The battery740may be configured to be recharged using the power cord750. The battery740may provide power to the tray710and/or to the lighting devices712.

The power cord750may be configured to couple with a 12 volt direct current (DC) power source, or other power source that may be available in remote situations, or available in a vehicle. In some embodiments, the power cord750may be configured to plug into a cigarette lighter outlet or other similar or comparable power port in a vehicle. Additionally or alternatively, the power cord750may be configured to interface with a traditional outlet, such as an alternating current (AC) outlet operating at 115 V, 120 V, 220 V, 230 V, etc.

In some embodiments, the case700may include a set of four, six, eight, ten, twelve, twenty, or any other number of lighting devices712. In some embodiments, the case700may be stored primarily in the trunk of a public safety vehicle; however, such a system has the flexibility to be in other locations of a vehicle with access to a 12 V DC power outlet. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments the case700may be directly wired into an electrical system for a vehicle. In some embodiments, the case700may include a DC to AC adapter, such as an adapter to convert 12 V DC power from the vehicle into 120 V AC power to charge or otherwise power one or more components or devices stored within the case.

In some embodiments, the lighting devices712of the case700may operate cooperatively. For example, the lighting devices712may be configured to communicate with each other and/or a remote using an RF signal. For example, the lighting devices712may wirelessly communicate with one another to generate a pattern of light among the devices. Additionally or alternatively, the sequence of lights, patterns of lights, etc. may be modified by an RF remote. Additionally or alternatively, the pattern and/or color of light for a single lighting device712may be modified in such a manner. Examples of such communication, etc. may be described with reference toFIG. 15.

Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the case700without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the case700may include more or fewer elements than those illustrated inFIG. 7. For example, the case700may include multiple trays710and/or any number of lighting devices712. As another example, the case700may include any number of extended battery packs and/or secondary lights (an example of which is illustrated inFIGS. 10 and 11).

FIG. 8illustrates an example tray800of an example traffic warning system, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The tray800may be similar or comparable to the tray710ofFIG. 7. The tray800may include any number of charging ports810(such as charging ports810a-810d), a handle820, a battery830, and any number of lighting devices850(such as lighting devices850aand850b).

In some embodiments, the charging ports810may include posts or other electrical contacts that may lock or otherwise engage with one or more components of the lighting devices850. Additionally or alternatively, the charging ports may include an attachment mechanism (such as a male threaded portion and/or a female threaded portion) to securely couple the lighting devices850to the tray800. In these and other embodiments, the charging ports810may be similar or comparable to the attachment mechanism for coupling the lighting devices to a traffic cone. In some embodiments, the charging ports810may also be configured to couple with extended battery packs and/or secondary lights, and may utilize the same or a different attachment mechanism to do so. By using a similar attachment mechanism, a single port may be used to charge the lighting devices850and to couple them to a traffic cone when deployed.

The handle820may be shaped and/or configured to carry the tray800and/or remove the tray800from a case (such as the case700ofFIG. 7). For example, a user may be able to grasp the handle and pull the tray out of the case.

The battery830may be configured to be electrically coupled to the charging ports810such that even when the tray800is not disposed within a case, the tray800may continue to provide power to the charging ports810to recharge the batteries of the lighting devices850. In some embodiments, the tray800may or may not include the battery830.

In some embodiments, the tray800may include one or more charging indicators for the lighting devices850of the tray800, such as LEDs or other indicators that may be activated to indicate whether or not the lighting devices850are charging and/or a state of charge (e.g., 25%, 50%, 75%, 100% charged). Additionally or alternatively, such a charging indicator may be included for the battery830of the case.

Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the tray800without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the tray800may include more or fewer elements than those illustrated inFIG. 8. For example, the tray800may not include the battery830. As another example, the tray800may include any number of charging ports810, such as six, eight, ten, twelve, or twenty. As another example, the tray800may carry any number of extended battery packs and/or secondary lights (an example of which is illustrated inFIG. 11).

FIG. 9Aillustrates an additional example lighting device900aconfigured to illuminate a traffic cone, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the lighting device900amay be utilized as a secondary light in conjunction with another lighting device, such as the lighting device300aofFIGS. 3A and 3Band/or the lighting device500aofFIGS. 5A and 5B. The lighting device900amay include a light pod910, a shaft920, a shaft coupler930, and a shaft cap940.

The light pod910may include one or more arrays of lights configured to emit light in multiple directions, and in some embodiments, in a full three hundred and sixty degrees. In this way, when the lighting device900ais disposed within a cone, the entire cone may be illuminated by the lighting device900a. The light pod910may be made of any type of light source, such as LEDs, OLEDs, incandescent, fluorescent, etc.

The shaft920may be configured to place the light pod910further down inside a cone rather than being disposed near the top of the cone such that the light pod910provides a robust distribution of light within the cone. In some embodiments, the shaft920may house one or more batteries to power the lighting device900a.

The shaft coupler930may be configured to couple the shaft to the shaft cap940. For example, the shaft coupler930may include a lip or other member that may snap into the shaft cap940. Additionally or alternatively, the shaft920may be made of a unitary body with the shaft cap940. In these and other embodiments, whether manufactured as separate components or as a single body, the shaft cap940and the shaft920may be utilized as a single unitary body of the lighting device900a.

The shaft cap940may operate to couple the lighting device900ato a traffic cone and/or one or more other devices. For example, the shaft cap940may include a first threaded portion942inside of the shaft cap940and a second threaded portion944disposed atop the shaft cap940. The first threaded portion942may be shaped and configured to interface with an attachment mechanism such as a male threaded portion atop a cone via a cone attachment member. Independently, but also possibly simultaneously, the second threaded portion944may act as an attachment mechanism to couple the lighting device900ato a primary lighting device, such as the lighting device300aofFIGS. 3A and 3B. In these and other embodiments, using the dual connectivity of the shaft cap940, the lighting device900amay be coupled to a traffic cone and another lighting device at the same time, creating an entire interlocking system to illuminate a cone and provide a light atop the cone.

In some embodiments, the lighting device900amay include one or more buttons to interact with and/or control operation of the lighting device900a. In some embodiments, the functionality may include an “on” mode, an “off” mode, and a “flashing” mode. Additionally or alternatively, the functionality may include a “bright,” “dim,” and “off” mode. In some embodiments, the functionality of the lighting device900amay be limited as compared to a primary lighting device, such as the lighting device300aofFIGS. 3A and 3B. In some embodiments, one or more of the buttons of the primary lighting device may control operation of the lighting device900a. For example, the lighting device900amay be in wireless communication with the primary lighting device and/or there may be a communicative coupling between the lighting device900aand the primary lighting device such that the lighting device900amay mimic operation of the primary lighting device and/or act as a slave to the primary lighting device such that it operates in a manner as instructed by the primary lighting device.

In some embodiments, the light pod910may be removable such that the lighting device900amay operate as an extended battery pack.

Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the lighting device900awithout departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the lighting device900amay include more or fewer elements than those illustrated inFIG. 9A. For example, additional batteries may be coupled to the lighting device900aafter removing the light pod910. As another example, the light pod910may be larger or smaller in size, emit light in more or fewer directions than illustrated, etc. As an additional example, a different attachment mechanism may be utilized by the shaft cap940.

FIGS. 9B-9Eillustrate various views of example traffic warning systems900b-900e, respectively, with example lighting devices disposed within a traffic cone and configured to illuminate the traffic cone, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.FIG. 9Billustrates the lighting device900aprior to insertion into the cone120.FIG. 9Cillustrates a cutaway view of the lighting device900adisposed within the cone120.FIG. 9Dillustrates a cutaway view of the lighting device900adisposed within the cone with a primary lighting device980attached atop the lighting device900a.FIG. 9Eillustrates a view of the lighting device900acoupled to a cone attachment member110and coupled to the primary lighting device980attached atop the lighting device900a, with the cone dashed out for visibility purposes.

As illustrated inFIG. 9B, the system900bincludes the lighting device900a, with the light pod910, the shaft920, and the shaft cap940. The cone120may couple to the lighting device900avia the cone attachment member110.

As illustrated inFIG. 9C, the system900cincludes the lighting device900a. The threaded portion114of the cone attachment member110may interface with the threaded portion942of the shaft cap940. In some embodiments, such an interface may include lips at the end of the threaded portions for locking the two components together.

The shaft920may include batteries950, such as the batteries950a,950b, and950c. In these and other embodiments, the batteries950may power the light pod910. Additionally or alternatively, the lighting device900amay include an electronic coupling device passing through the shaft cap940such that a device coupled to the second threaded portion944may utilize the battery power from the shaft920. In such an embodiment, the lighting device900amay operate as a battery pack or other secondary power source. This may be particularly the case if the light pod910is removed. For example, as illustrated inFIG. 9C, the light pod910may be removable such that the shaft920with the batteries950remains coupled to the traffic cone120as a secondary power source for other devices coupled to the traffic cone120.

In some embodiments, the batteries950may include a standard size cell, such as a AA, C, or D-cell sized battery or batteries. In some embodiments, the extended battery pack may be configured to extend the run time of a primary lighting device by multiple hours, such as between six and twenty-four hours, or between twelve and eighteen hours. In some embodiments, when operating as an extended battery pack, the lighting device900amay be encompassed by a durable casing, such as aluminum, steel, shatter-proof nylon, etc. In some embodiments, the material for the casing of the lighting device900amay be determined to be in compliance with one or more regulations.

As illustrated inFIG. 9D, the lighting device900amay be coupled atop the cone120, and the primary lighting device980may be coupled to the lighting device900a. For example, the threaded portion944of the lighting device900amay couple with a threaded portion983of the primary lighting device980. While illustrated with the primary lighting device980having a female threaded portion interfacing with a male threaded portion of the shaft cap940, it will be appreciated that the primary lighting device980could readily have a male threaded portion, or any other attachment mechanism configured to interface with the top portion of the lighting device900a. For example, the top of the lighting device900amay include a magnet or metal disk via which the primary lighting device980may couple to the lighting device900a. Additionally or alternatively, as noted above, the attachment mechanism between the lighting device900aand the cone attachment member110, as well as the attachment mechanism between the lighting device900aand the primary lighting device980may include a locking feature such as interfacing lips or any other mechanism to utilize a locking mechanism to prevent the components from becoming separated.

In some embodiments, the primary lighting device980may be electrically coupled to the batteries950a,950b, and/or950csuch that the primary lighting device980may receive a part or all of its operating power from the lighting device900a.

FIG. 9Eillustrates a perspective view of the lighting device900acoupled to a cone attachment member110and coupled to the primary lighting device980attached atop the lighting device900a, with the cone dashed out for visibility purposes. As illustrated inFIG. 9E, the primary lighting device980may utilize a first array of lights981awithin a front cavity982to emit light away from the cone120. At the same time, the light pod910may emit light to illuminate the entire cone120.

Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the systems900b-900ewithout departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the systems900b-900emay include more or fewer elements than those illustrated inFIGS. 9B-9E, respectively. For example, the light pod910may be removed. As another example, any attachment mechanism may be utilized to couple the various lighting devices (e.g., the lighting device900aand the primary lighting device980) together.

FIG. 9Fillustrates another example traffic warning system900fconfigured to illuminate a traffic cone120, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The system900fmay include the traffic cone120coupled to a primary lighting device980f. The primary lighting device980fmay be similar or comparable to the primary lighting device980with the variations described below. For example, the primary lighting device980fmay include a front cavity982fwith an array of lights981bto emit light away from the traffic cone120. The primary lighting device980fmay include cone lights984, such as the cone lights984aand984b.

The cone lights984may be positioned and oriented on a bottom face of the primary lighting device980f(such as the lights491band492bofFIG. 4B). The cone lights984may be oriented such that they direct light onto on an outer surface of the cone120such that the cone120is illuminated by the cone lights984. The present disclosure thus contemplates illuminating a cone from within (such as illustrated, for example, inFIGS. 4C and 9A-9E) as well as from without (such as illustrated, for example, inFIGS. 4B and 9F).

Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the system900fwithout departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the system900fmay include more or fewer elements than those illustrated inFIG. 9F. For example, the cone lights984may take any shape, form, and include any number of light emitting elements. As another example, the cone lights984may illuminate the cone in any color.

FIG. 10illustrates another example traffic warning system including another example case1000, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The case1000may be similar or comparable to the case700ofFIG. 7. For example, the case1000may include one or more trays1010and1050, lighting device1012(such as the lighting device1012a-1012d), and docks1030aand1030bthat may be similar or comparable to the tray710, lighting devices712, and dock730ofFIG. 7. Other elements of the case1000may not be illustrated, such as a power cord, a battery, charge indicators, etc.

As illustrated inFIG. 10, the tray1050may be shaped and configured to hold and/or interface with one or more lighting devices1052(such as the lighting devices1052a-1052f). The lighting devices1052may operate as secondary lights to the lighting devices1012, and may be similar or comparable to the lighting device900aofFIGS. 9A-9E.

Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the case1000without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the case1000may include more or fewer elements than those illustrated inFIG. 10. For example, the case1000may include multiple trays1010/1050and/or any number of lighting devices1012/1052.

FIG. 11illustrates another example tray1100of another example traffic warning system, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The tray1100may be similar or comparable to the tray800ofFIG. 8, although shaped and configured to interface with the lighting device900arather than the lighting device300a. For example, the tray1100may include one or more charging ports1110(such as the charging ports1110a,1110b, etc.), one or more lighting devices1150disposed within the charging ports (such as the lighting devices1150a,1150b, etc.), a handle1120, and a battery1130that may be similar or comparable to the charging ports810, the lighting devices850, the handle820, and the battery830ofFIG. 8. Additionally, the same teachings and/or modifications applicable to the tray800are equally applicable to the tray1100.

FIG. 12illustrates another example traffic warning system1200, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The system1200may include a cone120with an attachment mechanism1250coupling a lighting device1210atop the cone120.

The lighting device1210may include a directional warning system that may include a panel or array of lights (such as LEDs) configured to convey directionality with one or more arrows1212or portions thereof. Using such a device, the lighting device1210may be deployed on one or more cones120to convey the need to change lanes or move over in an emergency or other roadside situation.

In some embodiments, the panel or array of lights and/or a board to which they are attached may be configured to be rotated. For example, the panel or array of lights and/or the board may be rotated from a horizontal position (as illustrated inFIG. 12) to a vertical position for storage. As another example, the panel or array of lights and/or a board to which they are attached may be rotated and may still be operable to convey information via the arrows1212to traffic to move forward. In some embodiments, the panel or array of lights may be configured such that the panel of lights may convey alternative directions without physically moving the lights, e.g., by selecting a different program of illuminating the panel or array of lights such that a different direction of arrow1212is depicted. For example, the arrows1212are illustrated as pointing to the left, corresponding to a button or control1236. By invoking a button or control1234, the display may change the direction of the arrows1212to point to the right. Additionally or alternatively, the panel or array of lights and/or the board may be rotated one hundred and eighty degrees such that the arrows1212point in the opposite direction (e.g., right instead of left).

In some embodiments, a shaft1230coupling the panel or array of lights and/or the board to the attachment mechanism1250to couple the lighting device1210to the traffic cone120may include one or more buttons (such as buttons1232,1234and1236) to control operation of the lighting device1210. For example, the buttons may include a first button1232that may operate in a similar manner to the other buttons described herein (e.g., turning on, turning off, adjusting programming, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, additional buttons (such as the buttons1234and1236) may be included to alter the direction of arrows emitting light.

In some embodiments, the shaft1230may include one or more batteries1240or other power sources such that the lighting device1210may operate without being plugged in or using another power source. In some embodiments, the lighting device1210may be configured to couple with a charging device or charging ports in a similar or comparable manner to the lighting device850coupling to the charge ports810inFIG. 8. Additionally or alternatively, the lighting device1210may be stored in a case in a similar manner to the lighting devices1012and/or1052in the case1000ofFIG. 10.

In some embodiments, the attachment mechanism1250may be similar or comparable to that used in other embodiments of the present disclosure, such as a magnet affixed to the bottom of the shaft1230to couple with a metal disk atop the cone120(e.g., via a cone attachment member). Using the magnet, the lighting device1210may be attached to metal surfaces in addition to being able to couple with the cone120. As another example of the attachment mechanism1250, the lighting device1210may include a male or female threaded portion to facilitate coupling with the cone120.

Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the system1200without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the system1200may include more or fewer elements than those illustrated inFIG. 12. For example, any manner of attachment mechanism1250may be used to couple the lighting device1210to the cone120. As another example, the arrows1212and the associated display may be oriented in any direction. As an additional example, any number of other buttons may be used in conjunction with the lighting device1210.

FIG. 13Aillustrates a device1300afor coupling with a traffic cone in a traffic warning system, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

The device1300amay include a traffic cone portion1310and a light portion1320and a connecting member1330between. Additionally, the device1300amay include an attachment device1340atop the light portion1320. The traffic cone portion1310may be shaped and configured to go inside of a traffic cone such that the connecting member1330projects up and out through a top hole in the cone while the edges of the cone portion1310remain below the lip around the top hole of the cone.

The light portion1320may be threaded or otherwise coupled to the connecting member1330in a manner such that the light portion1320and the cone portion1310pinch the lip around the top hole of the cone. In some embodiments, the connecting member1330may lock the light portion1320and the cone portion1310together, such as via a one-way ratcheting mechanism, a threaded connection, etc.

The attachment device1340may include any attachment mechanism consistent with the present disclosure, including a metal disk, a male or female threaded portion, etc.

FIG. 13Billustrates a top-down view of an example traffic warning system1300butilizing the device1300aofFIG. 13A, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, as illustrated inFIG. 13B, the cone1305may have the light portion1320atop the cone with the attachment device1340available atop the cone1305for coupling a device, such as a lighting device to the cone1305.

Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the system1300bwithout departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the system1300bmay include more or fewer elements than those illustrated inFIG. 13B. For example, the attachment device1340may utilize any attachment mechanism. Furthermore,FIGS. 13A and 13Bserve to illustrate that any approach to connecting an attachment mechanism to a cone such that the lighting devices of the present disclosure may be coupled to such a cone are contemplated as within the scope of the present disclosure.

FIG. 14illustrates a schematic view of another example lighting device1400, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The lighting device1400may include a first array of lights1410(e.g., at a front of the lighting device1400), a second array of lights1420(e.g., at a back of the device1400), a processing device1430, a communication device1440, a power source1450, a storage device1460, and a user interface device1470. The various components of the lighting device1400may be in communication with each other.

The first and/or second array of lights1410/1420may include an array of lights that is similar or operable to the array of lights illustrated inFIG. 6. For example, the arrays of lights1410/1420may receive instructions from the processing device1430regarding when to emit light, and when to stop emitting light. For example, the processing device1430may recall a program from the storage device1460(e.g., memory) of a flashing pattern to be used by the arrays of lights1410/1420. The processing device1430may send signals to the arrays of lights1410/1420to emit light consistent with the program recalled from the storage device1460.

The processing device1430may include any suitable special-purpose or general-purpose computer, computing entity, or processing device, and may be configured to execute instructions stored on any applicable computer-readable storage media. For example, the processing device1430may include a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), or any other digital or analog circuitry configured to interpret and/or to execute program instructions and/or to process data. The processing device1430may additionally or alternatively be configured to control or direct operation of other devices of the lighting device1400.

The communication device1440may include any device or component that facilitates communication with a remote device, such as another lighting device1400or a remote control device. For example, the communication device1440may include an RF antenna, an IR receiver, a Wi-Fi chip, a Bluetooth chip, a cellular chip, or any other communication device.

The power source1450may include any device or component configured to provide power to the lighting device1400and/or the components thereof. For example, the power source1450may include a rechargeable battery, a disposable battery, a connection to an AC or DC power source, or any other power source.

The storage device1460may include computer-readable storage media or one or more computer-readable storage mediums for carrying or having computer-executable instructions or data structures stored thereon. Such computer-readable storage media may be any available media that may be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer, such as the processing device1430. By way of example such computer-readable storage media may include non-transitory computer-readable storage media including Random Access Memory (RAM), Read-Only Memory (ROM), Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM), flash memory devices (e.g., solid state memory devices), or any other storage medium which may be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of computer-executable instructions or data structures and which may be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer. Combinations of the above may also be included within the scope of computer-readable storage media. Computer-executable instructions may include, for example, instructions and data configured to cause the processing device1430to perform a certain operation or group of operations.

The user interface device1470may include any device or component allowing a user to interact with the lighting device1400. For example, the user interface device1470may include one or more manual or electronic buttons. As another example, the user interface device1470may include a touch screen or other electronic input device.

Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the lighting device1400without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the lighting device1400may include more or less components than those illustrated inFIG. 14.

FIG. 15illustrates a schematic view of another example traffic warning system1500utilizing multiple lighting devices1510(such as the lighting devices1510a-1510d), in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The lighting devices1510may be configured to operate cooperatively. As illustrated inFIG. 15, the communication between the lighting devices1510occurs over a network1520.

For example, the lighting devices1510may be configured to generate a pattern or flow, not just on the individual lights of a given lighting device1510, but between the lighting devices1510. For example, multiple lighting devices1510may be configured to light up in ascending or descending order. As another example, the multiple lighting devices1510may flash in alternating colors (such as red, blue, red, blue, red, blue). Additionally or alternatively, any other pattern or combination is contemplated within the present disclosure.

In some embodiments, the lighting devices1510may include a startup sequence to determine a master and/or slave characteristic of the lighting devices. For example, upon start up, the lighting devices1510may determine if another lighting device is in close enough proximity for communication (e.g., via Bluetooth or NFC). If no devices are detected, the lighting device1510may take a role of master. As another example, if part of a set of lighting devices (such as those in a case together), the starting up lighting device may search for any of a set of known lighting devices. If other devices are detected, the lighting device1510may take a role of slave and may operate as instructed from the lighting device1510designated as master. For example, if the lighting device1510ais powered up first, the lighting device1510amay be a master device. If the lighting device1510bis powered up second, it may take a role as a slave to the lighting device1510a.

In some embodiments, a slave device may relay or convey instructions to other slave lighting devices. For example, the master lighting device1510amay send instructions to a closest slave lighting device1510b, which may relay the instructions to the next closest slave lighting device1510c, which may relay the instructions to the next closest slave lighting device1510d. In such an embodiment, the delay in relaying the instructions may create a cascade effect from the master lighting device1510aalong to the last slave lighting device1510d.

In some embodiments, the master lighting device1510amay transmit a timing signal to the other lighting devices1510b-dsuch that when the slave lighting devices1510b-dreceive instructions they may also receive the timing signal and/or offset timing instructions of when to take certain actions, such as emit certain colors of lights or cease emitting light.

It will be appreciated that any pattern of order, color, etc. for the series of lighting devices is contemplated within the present disclosure.

The network1520may include any system, device, protocol, etc. consistent with one or more communication modalities consistent with the present disclosure. The network1520may include direction device-to-device communication between the lighting device1510. Additionally or alternatively, the network1520may include intermediate devices that may be configured to relay or otherwise convey messages from one lighting device1510to another lighting device1510.

Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the system1500without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the system1500may include more or less components than those illustrated inFIG. 15.

Additionally, if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim recitations.

However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to embodiments containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and/or “an” should be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations.