Light source assembly with multiple, disparate light sources

A light source assembly includes a housing assembly, a plurality of disparate light sources that are coupled to the housing assembly, a power source, a control system and a selector assembly. Each of the light sources generates an output beam that is directed away from the housing assembly, wherein each of the output beams has a center wavelength that is in a different wavelength range than each of the other output beams. The power source provides electrical power to each of the light sources. The control system selectively controls the electrical power that is provided by the power source to the light sources. The selector assembly is electrically connected to the control system, and is selectively controllable to selectively direct current to each of the light sources to generate the desired output beams.

BACKGROUND

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

SUMMARY

The present invention is directed toward a light source assembly for use by a user. In various embodiments, the light source assembly comprises a housing assembly, a first laser source, a second laser source, a power source, a control system and a selector assembly. The first laser source is coupled to the housing assembly. The first laser source generates a coherent, first output beam that is directed away from the housing assembly. In certain embodiments, the first output beam has a first center wavelength that is in a long-wavelength infrared range of between approximately eight and fifteen micrometers. The second laser source is also coupled to the housing assembly. The second laser source generates a coherent, second output beam that is directed away from the housing assembly. In certain embodiments, the second output beam has a second center wavelength that is in a mid-wavelength infrared range of between approximately three and eight micrometers. The power source is coupled to the housing assembly. Additionally, the power source provides electrical power for the first laser source and the second laser source. The control system is also coupled to the housing assembly. The control system selectively controls the electrical power that is provided by the power source to the first laser source and the second laser source. The selector assembly is electrically connected to the control system. In certain embodiments, the selector assembly is selectively controllable by the user to select a first selector setting in which the control system directs pulses of current from the power source to the first laser source in a first duty cycle, and directs pulses of current from the power source to the second laser source in a second duty cycle that is different from the first duty cycle so that the first output beam and the second output beam are pulsed in an alternating manner.

With the design alternatives described in detail herein, in various embodiments, the light source assembly can be used as a beacon or flashlight for various purposes, in conjunction with a detector assembly. For example, in various applications, the light source assembly can be used with the detector assembly for purposes of identification, surveillance, search and rescue, targeting, and/or navigation.

In certain embodiments, at least one of the first laser source and the second laser source includes a quantum cascade gain medium. Additionally and/or alternatively, each of the first laser source and the second laser source can include a quantum cascade gain medium.

Additionally, in some embodiments, the selector assembly is selectively controllable by the user to select a second selector setting in which the control system directs current from the power source to the first laser source so that the first laser source generates the first output beam. In some such embodiments, the selector assembly is further selectively controllable by the user to select a third selector setting in which the control system directs current from the power source to the second laser source so that the second laser source generates the second output beam.

In various embodiments, a first peak power of the first output beam generated by the first laser source is greater than approximately one watt, and a second peak power of the second output beam generated by the second laser source is greater than approximately one watt. In alternative, non-exclusive embodiments, the first laser source and the second laser source each include a quantum cascade gain medium and each is designed and controlled to generate an output beam having a peak power of greater than approximately 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, or 4 watts.

Additionally, in certain embodiments, each of the first output beam and the second output beam is an uncollimated beam. Further, in some embodiments, the first output beam is emitted along a first beam axis and the second output beam is emitted along a second beam axis. In such embodiments, the first beam axis can be spaced apart from and substantially parallel to the second beam axis.

In some embodiments, the housing assembly includes a first housing aperture and a spaced apart second housing aperture. In such embodiments, the first output beam is directed away from the housing assembly through the first housing aperture and the second output beam is directed away from the housing assembly through the second housing aperture.

Additionally, in various embodiments, the light source assembly can further comprise a thermal shield that is coupled to the housing assembly. The thermal shield includes a shield body that is spaced apart from the housing assembly. Moreover, the shield body can include a lattice-type design that inhibits energy external to the housing assembly from contacting the housing assembly, while allowing natural convection cooling of a surface of the housing assembly.

In certain embodiments, the light source assembly further comprises a third light source that is coupled to the housing assembly. In such embodiments, the third light source generates a third output beam that is directed away from the housing assembly. Additionally, the third output beam can have a third center wavelength that is in one of a short-wavelength infrared range of between approximately one point four and three micrometers, a near-infrared wavelength range of between approximately seven hundred fifty nanometers and one point four micrometers, and a visible wavelength range of between approximately three hundred eighty and seven hundred nanometers.

In certain applications, the present invention is further directed toward embodiments of an operational assembly including the light source assembly as described above, and a detector assembly that selectively detects each of the first output beam and the second output beam.

Additionally, in some embodiments, the present invention is also directed toward a light source assembly for use by a user, the light source assembly comprising (A) a housing assembly; (B) a first light source that is coupled to the housing assembly, the first light source generating a first output beam that is directed away from the housing assembly, the first output beam having a first center wavelength that is in a first wavelength range; (C) a second light source that is coupled to the housing assembly, the second light source generating a second output beam that is directed away from the housing assembly, the second output beam having a second center wavelength that is a second wavelength range that is different than the first wavelength range; (D) a third light source that is coupled to the housing assembly, the third light source generating a third output beam that is directed away from the housing assembly, the third output beam having a third center wavelength that is in a third wavelength range that is different than the first wavelength range and the second wavelength range, wherein each of the wavelength ranges is one of (i) a long-wavelength infrared range of between approximately eight and fifteen micrometers, (ii) a mid-wavelength infrared range of between approximately three and eight micrometers, (iii) a short-wavelength infrared range of between approximately one point four and three micrometers, (iv) a near-infrared wavelength range of between approximately seven hundred fifty nanometers and one point four micrometers, and (v) a visible wavelength range of between approximately three hundred eighty and seven hundred nanometers; (E) a power source that is coupled to the housing assembly, the power source providing electrical power for the first light source, the second light source and the third light source; and (F) a control system that is coupled to the housing assembly, the control system selectively controlling the electrical power that is provided by the power source to selectively activate each of the first light source, the second light source and the third light source.

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

DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1Ais a simplified front perspective view of an embodiment of a light source assembly10having features of the present invention. The design of the light source assembly10can be varied to suit the specific requirements and intended uses of the light source assembly10. As illustrated, in various embodiments, the light source assembly10includes a housing assembly12, a plurality of disparate light sources14, an optical assembly16, a control system18or circuit board (illustrated inFIG. 1D), a power source20(illustrated inFIG. 1E), and a selector assembly22, e.g., a switch. Alternatively, the light source assembly10can be designed with more or fewer components than those specifically illustrated and described in this embodiment. For example, in one such alternative embodiment, the light source assembly10can be designed without the optical assembly16.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The housing assembly12retains various components of the light source assembly10. For example, in certain embodiments, the plurality of disparate light sources14, the optical assembly16, the control system18and the power source20can all be coupled to, secured to, and/or retained substantially within the housing assembly12.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Additionally, the overall shape and size of the housing assembly12can be varied to suit the specific requirements of the light source assembly10. For example, in certain embodiments, the housing assembly12can be substantially rectangular box shaped and can have a length of between approximately 2-4 inches, a width of between approximately 2-3 inches, and a thickness of between approximately 0.5-1.25 inches. In one non-exclusive embodiment, the housing assembly12is substantially rectangular box shaped, and has a length of 3.75 inches, a width of 2.5 inches, and a thickness of 1 inch. Alternatively, in other suitable embodiments, the housing assembly12can be other that substantially rectangular box shaped, and/or the housing assembly12can have a length, width and thickness that are greater than or less than the specific dimensions discussed herein above.

In yet another non-exclusive example, the housing assembly12has a cylindrical shape with a diameter of between approximately 1-4 inches and a thickness of between approximately 0.5-3 inches.

The number, type, design, positioning and orientation of the disparate light sources14can be varied depending on the specific requirements of the light source assembly10. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 1A, the light source assembly10includes five disparate light sources14, i.e. a first light source14A, a second light source14B, a third light source14C, a fourth light source14D and a fifth light source14E that are each coupled to, secured to, and/or positioned substantially within the housing assembly12.

Additionally, each of the light sources14can be designed and/or individually tuned to provide an output beam having a specific wavelength. For example, in one non-exclusive alternative embodiment, (i) the first light source14A can be a long-wavelength infrared light source that generates and/or emits a first output beam26A having a center wavelength that is in a long-wavelength infrared range of between approximately eight micrometers and fifteen micrometers; (ii) the second light source14B can be a mid-wavelength infrared light source that generates and/or emits a second output beam26B having a center wavelength that is in a mid-wavelength infrared range of between approximately three micrometers and eight micrometers; (iii) the third light source14C can be a short-wavelength infrared light source that generates and/or emits a third output beam26C having a center wavelength that is in a short-wavelength infrared range of between approximately one point four (1.4) micrometers and three micrometers; (iv) the fourth light source14D can be a near-infrared light source that generates and/or emits a fourth output beam26D having a center wavelength that is in a near-infrared wavelength range of between approximately seven hundred fifty nanometers (i.e. 0.75 micrometers) and one point four (1.4) micrometers; and (v) the fifth light source14E can be a visible light source that generates and/or emits a fifth output beam26E having a center wavelength that is in a visible wavelength range of between approximately three hundred eighty and seven hundred nanometers. Alternatively, one or more of the light sources14A-14E can be different than those specifically identified herein above (e.g., the light sources14A-14E can have different wavelengths such as those for a far-infrared light source, an ultraviolet light source, an X-ray light source, or another appropriate light source), and/or the light sources14A-14E can be positioned and/or oriented relative to one another in a different manner than is shown inFIG. 1A. Still alternatively, the light source assembly10can include greater than five or fewer than five disparate light sources14.

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

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

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

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

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

The control system18(illustrated inFIG. 1D) is coupled to, secured to, and/or positioned substantially within the housing assembly12. During use, the control system18enables the necessary and desired control of the operation of the light source assembly10, i.e. the selective operation of one or more of the plurality of disparate light sources14, by selectively controlling the electrical power that is provided by the power source20to the light sources14A-14E. In certain applications, the control assembly18selectively directs current from the power source20to one of the light sources14such that only one light source14is activated at a time. Alternatively, in other applications, the control system18can selectively direct current from the power source20to one of the light sources14, e.g., the first light source14A, in a first duty cycle, and direct current from the power source20to another of the light sources14, e.g., the second light source14B, in a second duty cycle that is different from the first duty cycle. In such embodiments, the control system18can selectively activate multiple light sources14such that any two of the output beams26A-26E can be generated in an alternating (or random) pattern. Still alternatively, in still other embodiments, the control system18can selectively direct current from the power source20to multiple light sources14so as to enable multiple light sources14to be activated at any given time. One non-exclusive embodiment of an exemplary control system18that can be used with the present invention is illustrated in and will be described in greater detail in relation toFIG. 1D.

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

The selector assembly22is electrically connected to the control system18. In certain embodiments, the selector assembly22enables the user to selectively choose between a variety of potential modes of operation via a plurality of selector settings29. The potential modes of operation and/or the specific selector settings29can be varied to suit the specific design requirements of the light source assembly10.FIG. 1Cis a simplified top perspective view of the light source assembly10ofFIG. 1A, which provides a clear illustration of some of the selector settings29available in this embodiment via the selector assembly22. For example, the selector assembly22shows that the user can select between the following modes of operation and/or selector settings29: (i) on, with the long-wavelength infrared light source14A (illustrated inFIG. 1A) and the mid-wavelength infrared light source14B (illustrated inFIG. 1A) operating in an alternating manner; (ii) on, using the mid-wavelength infrared light source14B; (iii) on, using the long-wavelength infrared light source14A; (iv) on, using the short-wavelength infrared light source14C (illustrated inFIG. 1A); (v) on, using the near-infrared light source14D (illustrated inFIG. 1A); (vi) on, using the visible light source14E (illustrated inFIG. 1A); and (vii) off. It should be appreciated that the potential modes of operation and/or selector settings29can be expanded to include a combined and/or alternating use of any combination of the plurality of light sources14A-14E illustrated specifically herein. Additionally, it should further be appreciated that the potential modes of operation and/or selector settings29can be expanded to include individual and/or combined (e.g., alternating) use of any other light sources that may potentially be included within the light source assembly10.

Additionally, in certain embodiments, the selector assembly22can further be adjusted by the user to enable the selective adjustment of a pulse rate and/or duty cycle of the emission of the output beams26A-26E (illustrated inFIG. 1A) when the output beams26A-26E are generated and/or emitted in a pulsed mode of operation, and/or to enable one or more of the output beams26A-26E to be generated and/or emitted in a continuous wave mode of operation. For example, when it is desired by the user to generate and/or emit the output beams26A-26E is a pulsed mode of operation, the user can make a selection via the selector assembly22such that the control system18(illustrated inFIG. 1D) pulses the power, i.e. the current, that is directed from the power source20to the light source14over time. In one non-exclusive setting, the duty cycle can be approximately fifty percent, e.g. the power can be directed to the light source14for a predetermined period of time and alternately the power is not directed to the light source14for the same predetermined period. Alternatively, the duty cycle can be greater than or less than fifty percent, i.e. the power can be directed to the light source for a longer or shorter period of time than the power not being directed to the light source14. Further, when it is desired by the user to generate and/or emits the output beams26A-26E in a continuous wave mode of operation, the user can make a selection via the selector assembly22such that the control system18continuously directs power, i.e. current, from the power source20to the light source14.

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

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

FIG. 1Dis a simplified rear perspective view of a portion of the light source assembly10ofFIG. 1A. In particular,FIG. 1Dis a simplified rear perspective view of the light source assembly10with the housing rear12B having been removed so that certain elements, e.g., the control system18, can be more clearly illustrated.

The control system18controls the operation of the light source assembly10including the electrical power that is directed from the power source20(illustrated inFIG. 1E) to each of the plurality of disparate light sources14(illustrated inFIG. 1A) that are included as part of the light source assembly10. The design of the control system18can be varied. For example, the control system18can include one or more processors and circuits that are electrically connected to the selector assembly22. With this design, the processors control the selective operation of each of the plurality of disparate light sources14.

Additionally, as noted above, in certain embodiments, the control system18can direct power to one or more of the light sources14in a pulsed fashion to minimize heat generation in, and power consumption by the light sources14, while still achieving the desired average optical power of the output beams26A-26E (illustrated inFIG. 1A). This enables more efficient use of the power source20such that the power source20, e.g., one or more batteries, can be used for a longer period of time as compared to when used in a continuous wave mode of operation. Such low battery drain can be crucial for long life of the light source assembly10when being used in the field. Additionally, this helps to minimize the heat generated. As a result thereof, this increases the number of operational environments in which the assembly can be used. For example, this allows the assembly to be used in a high temperature desert.

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

Further, in certain embodiments, the control system18can include a boost converter (e.g., a DC-to-DC power converter), a capacitor assembly, a reduction DC-to-DC power converter, a switch assembly, and a processor that can be utilized in conjunction with one another to enable the control system18to effectively and efficiently utilize power from the power source20to selectively operate each of the plurality of disparate light sources14.

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

The power source20provides electrical power for the light sources14(illustrated inFIG. 1A) and the control system18(illustrated inFIG. 1D). As shown inFIG. 1E, the power source20can include a plurality of batteries20A that are positioned within a battery compartment20B. The batteries20A provide the necessary power for full operation of the light source assembly10. In one embodiment, as illustrated, the power source20can include three batteries20A. Alternatively, the power source20can be designed to include greater than three or fewer than three batteries20A. Still alternatively, the power source20can be designed in another manner, i.e. without the use of batteries20A.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FIG. 2Ais a simplified front perspective view of another embodiment of a light source assembly210having features of the present invention. The light source assembly210illustrated inFIG. 2Ais substantially similar to the light source assembly10illustrated and described herein in relation toFIGS. 1A-1H. For example, the light source assembly210can include a housing assembly212, a plurality of disparate light sources214, an optical assembly216, a control assembly (not illustrated), a power source (not illustrated), and a selector assembly222that are substantially similar to the housing assembly12, the plurality of disparate light sources14, the optical assembly16, the control assembly18, the power source20, and the selector assembly22illustrated and described herein in relation toFIGS. 1A-1H.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

With reference toFIG. 4A, at the first selector setting429A, the control system18(illustrated inFIG. 1D) can selectively direct current from the power source20(illustrated inFIG. 1E) to the first light source14A (illustrated inFIG. 1A) in a first duty cycle450to generate the first output beam426A, and direct current from the power source20to the second light source14B (illustrated inFIG. 1A) in a second duty cycle452that is different from the first duty cycle to generate the second output beam426B. In particular, in this embodiment, the first duty cycle450consists of current being directed to the first light source14A for a first predetermined period of time and current not being directed to the first light source14A for a second predetermined period of time, wherein the first predetermined period of time is approximately equal in length to the second predetermined period of time. Conversely, in this embodiment, the second duty cycle452consists of current not being directed to the second light source14B for the first predetermined period of time and current being directed to the second light source14B for the second predetermined period of time. With this non-exclusive example, each of the first duty cycle450and the second duty cycle452is approximately fifty percent, e.g., with current being directed and not directed to the given light source14A,14B for a substantially equal period of time. Moreover, with this mode of operation, the first output beam426A and the second output beam426B can be generated and/or emitted from the light source assembly10in an alternating manner. Alternatively, each of the first duty cycle450and the second duty cycle452can be greater than or less than approximately fifty percent.

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

Additionally, as shown inFIG. 4B, at the second selector setting429B, the control system18(illustrated inFIG. 1D) can selectively direct current from the power source20(illustrated inFIG. 1E) to the first light source14A (illustrated inFIG. 1A) in the first duty cycle450A to generate the first output beam26A. In the non-exclusive embodiment illustrated inFIG. 4B, the duty cycle450A is approximately fifty percent, e.g. the current is directed to the first light source14A for a predetermined period of time and alternately the current is not directed to the first light source14A for the same predetermined period. Alternatively, the duty cycle450A can be greater than or less than fifty percent.

Somewhat similarly, as shown inFIG. 4C, at the third selector setting429C, the control system18(illustrated inFIG. 1D) can selectively direct current from the power source20(illustrated inFIG. 1E) to the second light source14B (illustrated inFIG. 1A) in a second duty cycle450B to generate the second output beam426B. In the non-exclusive embodiment illustrated inFIG. 4C, the duty cycle450B is approximately fifty percent, e.g. the current is directed to the second light source14B for a predetermined period of time and alternately the current is not directed to the second light source14B for the same predetermined period. Alternatively, the duty cycle450B can be greater than or less than fifty percent.

Further, as shown inFIG. 4D, at the fourth selector setting429D, the control system18(illustrated inFIG. 1D) can selectively direct current from the power source20(illustrated inFIG. 1E) to the third light source14C (illustrated inFIG. 1A) in a third duty cycle450C to generate the third output beam426C. In the non-exclusive embodiment illustrated inFIG. 4D, the third duty cycle450C is approximately fifty percent, e.g. the current is directed to the third light source14C for a predetermined period of time and alternately the current is not directed to the third light source14C for the same predetermined period. Alternatively, the third duty cycle450C can be greater than or less than fifty percent.

Still further, as shown inFIG. 4E, at the fifth selector setting429E, the control system18(illustrated inFIG. 1D) can selectively direct current from the power source20(illustrated inFIG. 1E) to the fourth light source14D (illustrated inFIG. 1A) in a fourth duty cycle450D to generate the fourth output beam426D. In the non-exclusive embodiment illustrated inFIG. 4E, the duty cycle450D is approximately fifty percent, e.g. the current is directed to the fourth light source14D for a predetermined period of time and alternately the current is not directed to the fourth light source14D for the same predetermined period. Alternatively, the duty cycle450D can be greater than or less than fifty percent.

Yet further, as shown inFIG. 4F, at the sixth selector setting429F, the control system18(illustrated inFIG. 1D) can selectively direct current from the power source20(illustrated inFIG. 1E) to the fifth light source14E (illustrated inFIG. 1A) in a fifth duty cycle450E to generate the fifth output beam426E. In the non-exclusive embodiment illustrated inFIG. 4F, the duty cycle450E is approximately fifty percent, e.g. the current is directed to the fifth light source14E for a predetermined period of time and alternately the current is not directed to the fifth light source14E for the same predetermined period. Alternatively, the duty cycle450E can be greater than or less than fifty percent.

It is understood that although a number of different embodiments of a light source assembly10,210,310have been illustrated and described herein, one or more features of any one embodiment can be combined with one or more features of one or more of the other embodiments, provided that such combination satisfies the intent of the present invention.