Flashlight having multi-position head with downlight

Flashlights and methods of use. A flashlight includes a body that defines a longitudinal axis and a head releasably attached to the body. The head includes a front light defining a first axis parallel to the longitudinal axis and a downlight defining a second axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. An attachment feature is disposed on a lateral side of the body. The head is selectively attachable to the body in either of a first position and a second position. In the first position, the downlight faces a first direction relative to the body and in the second position the downlight faces a second direction relative to the body that is opposite the first direction.

TECHNICAL FIELD

In general, embodiments of the present invention relate to handheld and helmet-mounted flashlights. Various particular embodiments of the present invention relate, among other things, to a flashlight having a removable head including a forward light and a downlight, wherein the head can be connected to a body or handle in at least two positions. The flashlight can be mounted, for example, on a helmet with the forward light and downlight facing the same respective directions regardless of the side of the helmet to which the flashlight is mounted.

BACKGROUND

Various handheld and user-worn lamps and flashlights are known. Additionally, it is known to provide a flashlight with a first light that shines forward from the flashlight and a second light or set of lights that emit light downwards from the flashlight, for example to illuminate a pathway of the flashlight's user. Such lights may be used, for instance, by military personnel, emergency workers, and first responders such as firefighters. Such lights can be provided with a clip that allows the flashlight to be fastened to the user's clothing (such as a belt, coat, harness, or backpack) so that flashlight need not be held by the user and can, at the same time, provide both forward light and downward light to illuminate a pathway. One example of such a light is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 9,074,739, entitled “Flashlight with Multiple Light Sources,” the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein for all purposes. Further, it is known to provide a flashlight with a battery warning indicator that can be illuminated a given color to indicate that the flashlight's battery will run out within a predetermined amount of time.

BRIEF SUMMARY

In one embodiment, the present invention provides a flashlight. The flashlight comprises a body that defines a longitudinal axis and a head releasably attached to the body. The head comprises a front light defining a first axis parallel to the longitudinal axis and a downlight defining a second axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. An attachment feature is disposed on a lateral side of the body. The head is selectively attachable to the body in either of a first position and a second position. In the first position, the downlight faces a first direction relative to the body and in the second position the downlight faces a second direction relative to the body that is opposite the first direction.

In another embodiment, the present invention provides a flashlight. The flashlight comprises a body and a head releasably attached to the body. The head defines a proximal end and a distal end and includes a first light facing a first direction and a second light facing a second direction. The first and second directions are perpendicular to one another. An indicator ring is disposed at the proximal end of the head. A power source is disposed in the body and is in electrical communication with the first and second lights and with the indicator ring. The indicator ring is selectively illuminable about its periphery in response to a level of charge of the power source.

In another embodiment, the present invention provides a method of using a flashlight. The method comprises providing a flashlight comprising a body defining a longitudinal axis and a head that is selectively attachable to the body. The head comprises a first light defining a first axis parallel to the longitudinal axis and a second light defining a second axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The method also comprises attaching the head to the body in a first position wherein the second light faces a first direction relative to the body. Also, the method comprises repositioning the head with respect to the body in a second position wherein the second light faces a second direction relative to the body that is opposite the first direction.

In yet another embodiment, the present invention provides a flashlight. The flashlight comprises a body defining a longitudinal axis and a head coupled with the body via a dual-position bayonet fitting. The head comprises a first light defining a first axis parallel to the longitudinal axis and a second light defining a second axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. When the head is fitted to the body via the dual-position bayonet fitting in a first orientation, the second light faces a first direction. When the head is fitted to the body via the dual-position bayonet fitting in a second orientation, the second light faces a second direction opposite the first direction.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As used herein, terms referring to a direction or a position relative to the orientation of a flashlight, such as but not limited to “vertical,” “horizontal,” “upper,” “lower,” “front,” or “rear,” refer to directions and relative positions with respect to the flashlight's orientation in its normal intended operation, as indicated in the Figures herein. Thus, for instance, the terms “vertical” and “upper” refer to the vertical direction and relative upper position in the perspectives of the Figures and should be understood in that context, even with respect to an apparatus that may be disposed in a different orientation. The term “substantially,” as used herein, should be interpreted as “nearly” or “close to”, such as to account for design and manufacturing tolerances of the apparatus.

Moreover, the term “or” as used in this application and the appended claims is intended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive “or.” That is, unless specified otherwise, or clear from the context, the phrase “X employs A or B” is intended to mean any of the natural inclusive permutations. That is, the phrase “X employs A or B” is satisfied by any of the following instances: X employs A; X employs B; or X employs both A and B. In addition, the articles “a” and “an” as used in this application and the appended claims should generally be construed to mean “one or more” unless specified otherwise or clear from the context to be directed to a singular form. Throughout the specification and claims, the following terms take at least the meanings explicitly associated herein, unless the context dictates otherwise. The meanings identified below do not necessarily limit the terms, but merely provide illustrative examples for the terms. The meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” may include plural references, and the meaning of “in” may include “in” and “on.” The phrase “in one embodiment,” as used herein does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, although it may. The phrase “at least one of A and B” is satisfied by any of A alone, B alone, A and B alone, and A and B with others. The phrase “one of A and B” is satisfied by A, whether or not also in the presence of B, and by B, whether or not also in the presence of A.

Embodiments of the invention relate to a flashlight comprising a body and a head that can be attached to the body in at least two positions. The head includes a first light which is configured to emit light in a first direction, with this first direction being generally in the forward direction of the flashlight. In various embodiments, the head also includes a second light which is configured to emit light in a second direction, e.g., perpendicular to the first direction. The flashlight is attachable to a helmet on either a first lateral side of the helmet or on a second lateral side of the helmet. When positioned on the first lateral side of the helmet, the head of the flashlight may be positioned in a first position relative to the body of the flashlight so that the second light generally emits light in a downward direction. When positioned on the second lateral side of the helmet, the head of the flashlight may be positioned in a second position rather than the first position so that the second light is still able to generally emit light in a downward direction.

By providing a head that is configured to be attached to the body in at least two positions, the second light may be effectively utilized as a downlight regardless of the side of the helmet to which the flashlight is attached. Without the ability to selectively attach the head, light at the second light may be emitted downwardly when the flashlight is on a first lateral side of the helmet, but the light at the second light would then be emitted upwardly when the flashlight is on a second lateral side of the helmet, or vice versa. Additionally, while embodiments are contemplated in which a flashlight may have a head comprising three or more lights, in some embodiments, by allowing the head to be selectively attachable in the first position and the second position, the head only needs to be provided with a first, front light and a second, downlight.

Thus, flashlights in accordance with various embodiments may be manufactured in a more cost-effective manner. Moreover, flashlights in accordance with various embodiments allow the user to attach the flashlight to the side of the helmet that the user prefers and/or may also allow helmet to be used with other specialized equipment (e.g., headsets) used by military, first responders, or other emergency personnel. For example, where certain specialized equipment must be placed on one lateral side of the helmet and would interfere with the flashlight, the flashlight may be moved to the other lateral side of the helmet so that both the flashlight and the other specialized equipment may be utilized.

In this regard,FIGS.1A-3illustrate a flashlight100in accordance with one embodiment. The flashlight100extends between a first end114A and a second end114B and comprises a body102. The body102defines a longitudinal axis A1, and this longitudinal axis A1is substantially parallel to the X-axis inFIG.1A.

The flashlight100also comprises a head106that is releasably attachable to the body102in this embodiment. The head106comprises a first light120(e.g., a front or forward-facing light) defining a first axis. InFIGS.1A,1B, and2-3, the first axis and the longitudinal axis A1are the same, but these axes may be separated and parallel in other embodiments. In still other embodiments, the first axis and the longitudinal axis may be at an acute angle to one another. The head106also comprises a second light122(e.g., a downlight or downward-facing light). The second light122defines a second axis. In the embodiment ofFIG.1A, the second light122generally emits light in a first direction D1along the second axis. This second axis is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A1and the first axis in this embodiment. As discussed in more detail herein, inFIG.1B, the second light122generally emits light in a second direction D2along the second axis, with the second direction D2being opposite to the first direction D1.

Although not required in all embodiments, in the illustrated embodiment a member108is coupled with the body on a lateral side109thereof. Member108can facilitate attachment of electrical contacts170A,170B to body102and may also serve as a hand grip for a user. Further, member108includes an attachment feature108A in this embodiment, though in other embodiments an attachment feature could be included in other locations on and/or integrally formed with body108A, if provided. In this embodiment, attachment feature108A is configured to engage with a complementary bracket that could be coupled with a user's clothing, backpack, or on a helmet, for example. Referring for instance toFIG.10A, the attachment feature108A may enable attachment to a bracket1074A on a first lateral side1072C of helmet1071A, or the attachment feature108A may enable attachment to a bracket1074B on a second lateral side side1072D′ of helmet1071B. Attachment feature108A can take any suitable form in various embodiments, and its size and shape will depend among other things on the geometry of the particular bracket or helmet to which it is to be attached. Here, though, attachment feature108A comprises a cylindrical projection with a circumferential notch that may be sized to receive a tab or slot in a bracket.

Also not required in all embodiments, in this embodiment member108defines an opening108B. When the flashlight100is fully assembled as illustrated inFIG.2, the opening108B can expose a plate128. The plate128can present information about the flashlight100and/or be a label or contain some other indicia. Similarly, a recess102A is defined on the lateral side109proximate to the second end114B of the flashlight100and proximate opening108B in this embodiment. In some embodiments, recess102A can define an opening through which a strap may be attached. In the illustrated embodiment, however, a plate130is disposed in the recess102A. The plate130can provide information or indicia like plate128in some embodiments.

As noted above, electrical contacts170A,170B are coupled with body102via member108. As shown, the electrical contacts170A,170B are exposed on the lateral side109of the body102and extend internally into the body102so that the electrical contacts170A,170B form a circuit with other electrical circuitry within the body102. As discussed further herein, the flashlight100may be positioned within a charger unit (such as charger unit760ofFIG.7). When the flashlight100is positioned appropriately within the charger unit760, electrical contacts170A,170B of a flashlight may come in contact with electrical contacts768A,768B of charger unit760, allowing for a circuit to be formed so that the flashlight100may be charged. However, electrical contacts170A,170B may be provided in different shapes or forms, and a different number of electrical contacts170A,170B may be utilized in other embodiments. Alternatively, the flashlight100may be charged in other ways such as through the use of a plug-in cable, the use of one or more batteries, etc.

The head106may be selectively and releasably attachable to the body102in two or more positions. For example, the head106is illustrated in a first position relative to the body102inFIG.1A, and the head106is illustrated in a second position relative to the body102in FIG.1B. In the first position, the head106is attached to the body102such that second light122faces in a first direction D1, which extends in the positive Y-direction relative to the Y-axis. In the second position illustrated inFIG.1B, the head106is attached to the body102such that second light122faces in a second direction D2that is opposite the first direction D1, and the second direction D2extends in the negative Y-direction relative to the Y-axis.

The flashlight100also comprises an indicator ring104in this embodiment. As described herein, the indicator ring104may be or comprise an optical element in some embodiments, and thus indicator ring104may be an indicator light in some cases, though that is not required. In this embodiment, indicator ring104is disposed between the head106and the body102when the head106is attached to the body102, and the indicator ring104may form a portion of an exterior surface of the flashlight100when the flashlight100is assembled. While the indicator ring104is attached to the head102as shown herein, indicator ring104also could be attached to body102and/or could be located in other positions on flashlight100.

The indicator ring104can be a diffuser or lens or other optical element in which light travels or internally reflects that can illuminate to indicate a status of flashlight100. The indicator ring104can also be formed of a translucent plastic material and can be selectively illuminable at least about its periphery. Indicator ring104extends through 360 degrees of angular rotation in this embodiment, and thus is visible on all sides, but in other embodiments indicator ring104(or at least an illuminable portion thereof) can extend less than 360 degrees in other embodiments.

The indicator ring104may be caused to illuminate in one or more colors based on various criteria related to the operation of flashlight100. For example, indicator ring104can be illuminated a first color when a charge level of a power source within the flashlight100exceeds a predetermined threshold, and the indicator ring104may illuminate in a second color when a charge level of the power source is below a predetermined threshold, though any number of thresholds can be used in various embodiments. In some embodiments, the first color may be green and the second color may be red, but other colors may be utilized as well. In one particular example, indicator ring104will glow green when there is more than thirty-five (35) minutes of energy left in the battery, and it will glow red when there is less than thirty-five (35) minutes of energy left. In this regard, the 35-minute threshold may be used in a firefighting or other emergency application, and if the indicator ring104is glowing red, that can indicate to the user that the light will not last as long as the air in the user's breathing apparatus. Additionally or alternatively, the indicator ring104may provide indications in other ways such as flashing light in the indicator ring104in regular intervals, changing the intensity or brightness level of the light, etc.

The indicator ring104can also be caused to illuminate in one or more colors based on different information. For example, the indicator ring104may be illuminable in a first color corresponding to a first amount of operating time remaining for the first light, and the indicator ring104may be illuminable in a second color corresponding to a second amount of operating time remaining for the first light, with the second amount of operating time remaining being less than the first amount of operating time remaining. The indicator ring104may also be illuminated in a certain color dependent on other features. For example, the color or lack of color for indicator ring104may be dependent upon the light mode (e.g., flood light mode, spot light mode) for the first light120, whether the second light122is positioned appropriately relative to the body102, whether the attachment feature108A is attached to a helmet, whether the flashlight100, the first light120, and/or the second light122are powered on, etc.

In other embodiments, the indicator ring104may indicate that the charge level is either above or below the predetermined threshold when indicator ring104is not illuminated at all. For example, the indicator ring104may illuminate in a color when a charge level of a power source within the flashlight100exceeds a predetermined threshold, and the indicator ring104may not be illuminated at all when a charge level of the power source is below a predetermined threshold. Alternatively, the indicator ring104may not be illuminated at all when a charge level of a power source within the flashlight100exceeds a predetermined threshold, and the indicator ring104may illuminate in a color when a charge level of the power source is below a predetermined threshold. In some embodiments, the color may be red, green, blue, or white, but other colors may be utilized as well.

In various embodiments, the first light120can be configured to operate in various modes, such as as a flood light and/or a spot light. In one example, when operating as a flood light, the first light120can generally emit light outwardly within a cone defining about a 90 degree angle, with the longitudinal axis A1defining a center of the cone. Further, when operating as a spot light, the first light120can generally emit light outwardly within a cone defining about a 12 degree angle, with the second axis (which is colinear with the first direction D1and the second direction D2) defining a center of the cone.

As best seen inFIGS.1A and1B, the flashlight100includes a switch116, which in this embodiment is located at second end114B of flashlight100opposite head106, which is located at first end114A. The switch116is actuatable to cause illumination of the first light120, the second light122, and/or the indicator ring104in various combinations. The switch116being disposed at an end of the body102opposite the head106can make it easier for a user to turn flashlight100on and off when it is attached to a helmet and/or when the user is wearing gloves. However, in other embodiments, switch116(or another suitable switch) can be positioned at another location on the body102or on the flashlight100.

In the illustrated embodiment, body102defines openings102B,103at second end114B of the flashlight100. As shown, these openings102B,103are positioned on a back face of the body102facing in the negative X-direction, but the openings102B,103may be positioned at other locations on the body102. Opening102B allows a charge indicator118to extend through the opening102B so that the charge indicator118may be seen by a user. The charge indicator118in this embodiment includes one or more lights to indicate the charge level of a power source154within the flashlight. The lights for the charge indicator118can be illuminated in a red color, but the lights for the charge indicator118may be illuminated in other colors in other embodiments. In some embodiments, the charge indicator118can include four lights, the charge may be greatest when all four lights are illuminated, and the charge may be lowest when zero lights or only one of the lights are illuminated. The charge indicator118can also operate in other modes or configurations, such as by where its lights are caused to blink when the flashlight charge level is very low. Additionally or alternatively, the charge indicator118lights can be caused to blink when the flashlight100is actively being charged so that a user knows that the flashlight100is positioned correctly in a charger unit.

Opening103allows a switch116to extend through the opening103so that the switch116may be accessed. Switch116is a push-button on-off switch in this embodiment, but the switch116could also be provided in other forms in other embodiments. As noted, the switch116can optionally allow for the flashlight100to operate in three or more modes. For example, the switch116can be pressed once to allow the flashlight100to operate with a first light and a second light both on in a first mode, the switch can be pressed a second time to allow the flashlight100to operate in a second mode where the first light is on and the second light is off, the switch can be pressed a third time to allow the flashlight100to operate in a third mode where the first light is off and the second light is on, and the switch can be pressed a fourth time to turn the flashlight100off. In some embodiments, switch116and/or another switch or user interface may enable the brightness level of the flashlight to be modified.

Referring now also toFIGS.4A-4C, flashlight100is shown with head106having been rotated clockwise relative to body102from the position shown inFIG.1Band then separated from body102. In this regard, in various embodiments flashlight100can comprise a fitting via which head106is releasably coupled with body102(with or without indicator ring104). In some example embodiments, the fitting can be a bayonet fitting or the like that allows head106to be coupled with body102in at least two distinct orientations. However, other fittings, including threaded fittings, snap fittings, and latches could be used in other embodiments.

In this regard, one example fitting comprises a female member124A (seeFIGS.4A-4B), which in this case is coupled with head106, and a male member124B (seeFIG.4C), which in this case is coupled with body102, though of course the opposite could be true in other embodiments. In this embodiment, female member124A comprises a generally cylindrical solid member projecting longitudinally outward from head106, and in which pair of “L”-shaped slots or grooves124A′ are defined opposite one another in the peripheral cylindrical surface. Each slot or groove124A′ can comprise a vertical portion extending parallel to the longitudinal axis A1with an angular extent of about sixty (60) degrees and a circumferential portion that extends about a portion of the peripheral cylindrical surface, for example through an angle of about ninety (90) degrees beyond the vertical portion in a clockwise direction when facing female member124A. Reference numeral124A″ denotes the top surface of female member124A, which top surface extends radially outward of the circumferential portions of slots or grooves124A′ but which has a smaller radius at the vertical portions of slots or grooves124A′. The female member124A also has two opposite stop portions in which no groove or slot is defined that extend about thirty (30) degrees between each slot or groove124A′. Also, as best seen inFIG.6, in this embodiment indicator ring104surrounds and carries female member124A, and indicator ring104also defines a slot with a diameter exceeding that of both female member124A and male member124B to allow male member124B to be received over female member124A and within indicator ring104when head106is coupled with body102.

In the embodiment shown in the Figures, the vertical portions of slots or grooves124A′ are disposed at angular positions between about sixty (60) degrees and about one hundred twenty (120) degrees and between about two hundred forty (240) degrees and about three hundred (300) degrees when viewing top surface124A″ in plan. The circumferential portions of slots or grooves124A′ are disposed at angular positions between about one hundred twenty (120) degrees and about two hundred ten (210) degrees and between about two hundred forty (240) degrees and about thirty (30) degrees.

Male member124B in this embodiment comprises a generally cylindrical collar projecting longitudinally outward from body102. The collar defines an internal opening124B′ having a diameter slightly larger than the diameter of top surface124A″ of female member124A. Further, the collar defines a pair of tabs124B″ that project radially inward from the collar. The tabs124B″ preferably have a complementary shape and angular extent to that of the vertical portions of slots or grooves124A′ and a thickness that corresponds to the thickness of the circumferential portions of slots or grooves124A′. The tabs124B″ are disposed opposite one another on the collar and at angular locations that cause the second light122to be in either of the first position shown inFIG.1Aor the second position shown inFIG.1Bwhen head106is coupled with body102and then rotated a predetermined amount (e.g., ninety (90) degrees) to mate the male and female members124B,124A of the fitting together.

In this regard, when head106is brought into engagement with body102along the longitudinal direction, tabs124B″ are first received in the vertical portions of slots or grooves124A′. The indicator ring104and body102can include markings to assist in the assembly of the flashlight100and in locating tabs124B″ in slots or grooves124A′. For example, indicator ring104in this embodiment includes markings110proximate to the center of two of its opposing sides, and body102includes a marking112. When assembling head106with body102, a user can align one of markings110with the marking112(depending on which direction the user wants second light122to face after assembly) so that tabs124B″ will be received in slots or grooves124A′ when the head106and body102are moved longitudinally together. The user can then rotate head106in a counter-clockwise direction relative to body102to cause tabs124B″ to slide within the circumferential portions of each slot or groove124A′ until the stop portions of female member124A are reached.

In the example ofFIG.4B, the direction D1of second light122is aligned with the negative Z-axis. If a user were to bring head106into engagement with body102(aligning markings110and112) and then rotate head106counter-clockwise by about ninety (90) degrees, second light122would move to the second position shown inFIG.1B, wherein direction D2is aligned with the negative Y-axis. If in this position the second light is facing the wrong direction for the side of, e.g., a helmet that the user wants to attach flashlight100to, the user could rotate head106clockwise relative to body102by ninety (90) degrees and then separate head106from body102. The user could then rotate head106one hundred eighty (180) degrees about longitudinal axis A1such that the opposite marking110is on top (and direction D1is aligned with the positive Z-axis as shown inFIG.4A). The user could then reassemble the head106with the body102. In doing so, head106will be rotated so that second light122is in the first position shown inFIG.1A(wherein direction D1is aligned with the positive Y-axis).

Of course, in other embodiments, female member124A could comprise a cylindrical collar with an opening defined therein, and male member124B could comprise a cylindrical solid with radially-extending tabs. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that other configurations are contemplated and within the scope of the present invention.

One or more electrical contacts126B are positioned on the body102, and in this embodiment these electrical contacts126B are disposed in a line within internal opening124B′ and, more specifically, disposed in a sealing member148that carries male member124B. Head106also comprises one or more pins126A, and in this embodiment pins126A are positioned so that they protrude in a line from female member124A. However, in other embodiments, the relative positions of pins126A and electrical contacts126B could be reversed, and the pins126A and contacts126do not need to be arranged in a line. In any event, pins126A are preferably oriented to engage electrical contacts126B once the head106and body102are assembled together, regardless of the orientation of head106relative to body102. (When head106and body102are disassembled from one another, as shown for instance inFIGS.4B and4C, the line of pins126A and the line of contacts126B may be disposed at right angles to one another.) As will be appreciated, engagement between pins126A and electrical contacts126B enables conduction of electricity from the body102to the electrical components in head106.

The example flashlight100is illustrated in exploded views inFIGS.5A-5Band in cross-section inFIG.6. Referring to these Figures, body102of flashlight100is provided in the form of a hollow shell that, in various embodiments, can have any suitable cross-sectional shape, or a cross-sectional shape that varies in the longitudinal direction. Body102can comprise a plastic material or a polyester resin material in some embodiments, though body102may comprise another material in other embodiments.

In this embodiment, body102also defines openings102B and103that are sized to receive a switch assembly116A that comprises the switch116and charge indicator118that are discussed above. As shown, switch assembly116A is assembled within the body102so that the switch116extends through the opening103and so that charge indicator118extends through the opening102B.

As is seen most easily inFIG.5B, the head106is provided in the form of a hollow shell, also of any suitable cross-sectional shape, or a cross-sectional shape that varies in the longitudinal direction, with a central aperture extending therethrough. The head106is positioned at the first end114A of flashlight100. The indicator ring104is coupled with a proximal end of head106, and at the distal end of head106, the central aperture defines an opening106A through which light from first light120is emitted. The head106also defines a second opening106B on a lateral side of the head106through which light from second light122is emitted.

The flashlight100also comprises a light cover131, which may be or comprise an optical element such as a lens, diffuser, or the like, or may simply be a transparent protective sheet through which light can pass and that serves to protect the light from damage. Light cover131in this embodiment has a flat front surface that, when light cover131is disposed within head106, completely covers first opening106A. Light cover131further comprises a depending skirt with peripheral dimensions that are complementary to, but slightly radially smaller than, the internal peripheral dimensions of head106. Thus, when light cover131is disposed within head106, the depending skirt fully covers the second opening106B. The lens131may comprise a polycarbonate material in some embodiments, though any suitable material may be used.

Also disposed within head106in this embodiment is a first substrate140(e.g., a printed circuit board (PCB)) on which one or more light sources140A are disposed. Light sources140A, which together operate as first light120, can be or comprise high-intensity light-emitting diodes (LEDs) in one embodiment, though other light sources could be used. As those of skill in the art will appreciate, first substrate140comprises circuitry that is configured to control light sources140A (whether alone or in combination with another PCB or processing circuit in flashlight100) and that is in electrical communication with other electrical components in head106and body102, such as power source154and other electronic circuitry. Between substrate140and light cover131are one or more reflectors134that are mounted in a reflector bracket132. In this embodiment, light sources140A comprises three LEDs, and thus three reflectors134are provided. As shown inFIG.5, reflectors134can be arranged in a honeycomb shape and each reflector can be disposed over a respective light source140A. Reflector bracket132can be formed of an aluminum material, such as type II anodized aluminum.

Further, head106in this embodiment comprises a second substrate136(e.g., a PCB) on which one or more light sources (not shown) are disposed. These light sources likewise can be or comprise high-intensity LEDs in one embodiment, and they may together or separately be operative to illuminate indicator ring104as described herein. Second substrate136comprises circuitry that is configured to control the light sources thereon and also is in electrical communication with first substrate140and other electrical components in body102. As shown inFIG.6, second substrate136can be positioned at the proximal end of head106and can be received in a circumferential lip of indicator ring104. The circumferential lip can, for example, have an interior diameter sized to snugly receive second substrate136and an outer diameter sized to be snugly received in the opening defined at the proximal end of head106. As mentioned above, female member124A also is carried in indicator ring104in this embodiment, and pins126A can pass through female member124A to be coupled with second substrate136and in electrical communication with the circuitry thereon. Also as mentioned above, to provide electrical communication between the circuitry in body102and head106, pins126A engage electrical contacts126B that are disposed in and extend through sealing member148. Electrical contacts126B are coupled with a third substrate152that is also in electrical communication with power source154.

In the illustrated embodiment, a mounting bracket138is disposed in head106between first and second substrates140,136and substrates140,136are mounted thereto using suitable fasteners. Mounting bracket138can also serve as a heat sink for cooling various light sources and may provide one or more longitudinal apertures through which first substrate140can communicate with second substrate136via suitable electrical wiring.

In various embodiments, flashlight100preferably is dust-proof and may be ATEX classified, for example, for use in Zones 0 through 20. In this regard, sealing member148preferably is snugly received in the opening defined at the distal end of body104, and a sealing ring150can be disposed between sealing member148and body102. A sealing ring146also can be provided between male member124B and sealing member148. When head106and body102are coupled together, as shown inFIG.6, sealing ring146also is disposed interior of indicator ring104. Sealing rings146,150can be or comprise O-rings or the like and can be formed of or comprise an Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) material in some embodiments.

As noted above, body102also contains a power source154. In particular, power source154can be or comprise a battery, battery pack, capacitor, or other suitable power source in various embodiments. Where the power source154is a battery pack, the battery pack may be a lithium ion cell battery pack. In some embodiments, the power source154may replaceable. Power source154in this embodiment is received in a carrier158that defines a frame for supporting both power source154and third substrate152within body102. As shown, carrier158surrounds power source154and provides slots configured to receive portions of third substrate152that extend perpendicularly to longitudinal axis A1, one of which is coupled with electrical contacts126B. A longitudinal portion of third substrate152also can be received in a slot defined in carrier158or otherwise coupled with carrier158. Carrier158may also serve as a heat sink for certain electrical components in some embodiments.

Again, power source154provides electrical power to the circuitry and other electrical components in body102and head106via third substrate152. In this regard, power source154can be held in place relative to third substrate152via a pair of clamps152A (FIG.5B) and can be in electrical communication with third substrate152via suitable electrical contacts (FIG.6). Third substrate152also has a portion that comprises an electrical button or switch that engages physical switch116. Electrical contacts170A,170B also extend through body102so that they are in electrical communication with third substrate152at locations170A′ and170B′ and can route electrical power to power source154for charging. In some embodiments, third substrate152can contain the primary processing circuitry that operates flashlight100in response to user actuation of switch116and otherwise performs the functionality described herein.

The example flashlight described above may be charged in various charger units, one example of which is illustrated inFIG.7. In this regard, a charger unit760is configured to charge one flashlight at a time, but other charger units may be utilized that may charge multiple flashlights at a time. The charger unit760comprises a body761. The body761defines a first lateral side763A and a second lateral side763B. The body761also defines a recess766where a flashlight may rest, with the recess766being positioned between the first lateral side763A and the second lateral side763B. Recess766may have peripheral dimensions that correspond to those of attachment member108A of flashlight100. Additionally, the charger unit760comprises electrical contacts768A,768B within the recess766. When the flashlight100is received appropriately within the recess766, the electrical contacts170A,170B of the flashlight100may come in contact with the electrical contacts768A,768B to allow electrical current to flow through each of the contacts and into the flashlight100.

To assist in positioning a flashlight and in retaining a flashlight, the charger unit760comprises two arms762,764. The arm762is positioned on a first lateral side763A, and the arm762comprises an extended portion762A that extends from the arm762towards the second lateral side763B. The arm764is positioned on a second lateral side763B, and the arm764comprises an extended portion764A that extends from the arm764towards the first lateral side763A. Thus, the extended portions762A,764A both tend to extend over a flashlight when a flashlight is received within the recess766.

Turning now toFIG.8, a charger unit860is provided with a first subunit860A and a second subunit860B, with each of the two subunits being configured to charge a respective flashlight100. As shown, each of the subunits860A and860B are analogous to charger unit760, described above, wherein like reference numerals denote like parts.

Referring now toFIG.9, a charger unit960is provided with a first subunit960A, a second subunit960B, and a third subunit960C, with each of the three subunits960A-960B being configured to charge a respective flashlight of the flashlights900A-900C. InFIG.9, the first subunit960A is actively being used to charge a first flashlight900A, the second subunit960B is actively being used to charge a second flashlight900B, and the third subunit960C is actively being used to charge a third flashlight900C. Each of the subunits960A-960C may have a structure that is similar to the subunits860A,860B of the charger unit860ofFIG.8, and each of the flashlights900A-900C may be analogous to flashlight100, described above. Each of the subunits960A-960C comprise arms. For example, the third subunit960C comprises arms962,964. These arms962,964may also comprise extended portions962A,964A similar to other embodiments described herein.

FIG.10Aillustrates helmet assemblies1078A,1078B. The helmet assemblies1078A,1078B may also include the flashlights themselves in some embodiments as illustrated inFIG.10B, but the flashlights are not shown inFIG.10Aso that brackets1074A,1074B may be seen. Referring first to helmet assembly1078A, the helmet assembly1078A has a helmet1071A and a bracket1074A. The bracket1074A defines a recess1076A that may be configured to receive a portion of an attachment member108A of the flashlight100ofFIG.1, and the bracket1074A may be configured to assist in attaching the attachment member108A to the helmet1071A. The helmet1071A has a front portion1072A, an occipital portion1072B, a first lateral side1072C, and a second lateral side (not shown) opposite the first lateral side1072C. The first lateral side1072C and second lateral side extend between the front portion1072A and the occipital portion1072B.

Helmet assembly1078B has a helmet1071B and a bracket1074B. The bracket1074B defines a recess1076B that may be configured to receive a portion of an attachment member108A of the flashlight100ofFIG.1, and the bracket1074B may be configured to assist in attaching the attachment member108A to the helmet1071B. The helmet1071B has a front portion1072A′, an occipital portion1072B′, a first lateral side (not shown), and a second lateral side1072D′ opposite the first lateral side. The first lateral side and second lateral side1072D′ extend between the front portion1072A′ and the occipital portion1072B′.

In some embodiments, only one attachment bracket may be provided on a helmet. However, multiple attachment brackets may be provided on the helmet in other embodiments. For example, one attachment bracket may be positioned on a first lateral side1072C of a helmet1071A and another attachment bracket may be positioned on an opposite lateral side of a helmet1071A, thereby allowing a flashlight to be attached to either side of the helmet1071A. Attachment brackets may also be provided at other locations on the helmet in some embodiments.

In some embodiments, one or more attachment brackets may be selectively installed on a helmet in the desired position by a user. For example, an attachment bracket may be installed on a helmet through the use of one or more fasteners. These fasteners may include screws, nuts, bolts, adhesives, snaps configured to form snap fit engagements with a portion of the helmet, etc.

FIG.10Billustrates helmet assemblies1078A,1078B with a flashlight1000attached to the helmets1071A,1071B using attachment brackets. The flashlight1000comprises a body1002, an indicator ring1004, and a head1006. These features and other features of the flashlight1000may be similar and/or identical to the corresponding features of flashlight100described above.

In helmet assembly1078A, the flashlight1000is attached to the helmet1071A with the flashlight1000positioned on the first lateral side1072C of the helmet1071A. The flashlight1000is oriented such that the first light1020on the head1006is directed along axis A1′, with the first light1020being directed in a forward, or anterior, direction relative to the helmet1071A and away from the occipital portion1072B of the helmet1071A. Additionally, the head1006is attached on the flashlight1000in a first position. When the head1006is in this first position, the second light1022is oriented downwardly along axis D1′. The head1006may be selectively attachable to the body1002such that first light faces an anterior direction and the second light faces an inferior direction when the attachment feature is attached to either the first lateral side1072C of the helmet1071A or the second lateral side of the helmet1071A.

In helmet assembly1078B, the flashlight1000is attached to the helmet1071B with the flashlight1000positioned on the second lateral side1072D′ of the helmet1071B. The flashlight1000is oriented such that the first light1020on the head1006is directed along axis A1′, with the first light1020being directed in a forward direction relative to the helmet1071B and away from the occipital portion1072B′ of the helmet1071B. Additionally, the head1006is attached on the flashlight1000in a second position, with this second position being different from the first position of the head1006in the helmet assembly1078A. When the head1006is in the second position, the second light1022is oriented downwardly along axis D2′. The head1006may be selectively attachable to the body1002such that first light faces an anterior direction and the second light faces an inferior direction when the attachment feature is attached to either the first lateral side of the helmet1071B or the second lateral side1072D′ of the helmet1071B.

By allowing the head1006to be selectively attachable in the first position and/or the second position, the second light1022may be generally directed in a downward direction regardless of the side of a helmet where a flashlight is attached. Without the ability to selectively attach the head1006, light at the second light1022may be emitted downwardly when the flashlight1000is in the first position illustrated in the helmet assembly1078A, but the light at the second light would then be emitted upwardly when the flashlight1000is in the second position illustrated in the helmet assembly1078B. Alternatively, light at the second light1022may be emitted downwardly when the flashlight1000is in the second position illustrated in the helmet assembly1078B, but the light at the second light would then be emitted upwardly when the flashlight1000is in the first position illustrated in the helmet assembly1078A.

Methods of using a flashlight are also contemplated.FIG.11illustrates an example method1100for using a flashlight, such as one of flashlights100,1000described above. At operation1102, a flashlight is provided. The flashlight comprises a body, and the body defines a longitudinal axis. The flashlight also comprises a head that is selectively attachable to the body. The head comprises a first light defining a first axis parallel to the longitudinal axis and a second light defining a second axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

At operation1104, the head of the flashlight is attached to the body of the flashlight in a first position. In this first position, the second light faces a first direction relative to the body. Attachment of the head of the flashlight to the body of the flashlight may be completed, for example, using the fitting described above including the female member124A and male member124B. The flashlight may be used for some period of time when the head is in this first position, or the flashlight may not be used at all when the head is in this first position. When the head is in this first position, the flashlight may be attached to a helmet so that the second light122(seeFIG.1A) is generally directed downwardly.

At operation1106, the head of the flashlight may be detached from the body of the flashlight. Detachment of the head of the flashlight from the body of the flashlight may be completed in the manner described above with reference toFIGS.1A-1B and4A-4C. In other embodiments, depending on the method by which the head of the flashlight is releasably coupled with the body, the head may not be detached from the body and the head may instead be rotated direction from the first position to a second position.

At operation1108, the head to the body may be repositioned in a second position. In this second position, the second light faces a second direction relative to the body that is opposite the first direction. Attachment of the head of the flashlight to the body of the flashlight may be completed using the alignment member124A and fitting124B as described herein. The flashlight may be used for some period of time when the head is in this second position, or the flashlight may not be used at all when the head is in this second position.

At operation1110, the flashlight may be attached to a helmet. This attachment may occur when the head of the flashlight is in the second position so that the second light122(seeFIG.1A) is generally directed downwardly.

The method1100is merely provided as an example, and the method1100may be modified in various ways. Additional operations may be added to the method1100. For example, the flashlight may be attached to a helmet when the head of the flashlight is in the first position. Certain operations may also be omitted from the method1100. For example, operation1106may be omitted in some embodiments, and the head may simply be repositioned to the second position without detaching the head of the flashlight from the body. Additionally, the order of the operations for method1100may be altered, and certain operations of method1100may be performed simultaneously.