Multifunctional interactive illumination apparatus

An interactive illumination apparatus and methods and systems for executing functions of the interactive illumination apparatus are disclosed. The interactive illumination apparatus includes a housing, a light emitting device arranged on a first end of the housing, a first button on the housing configured to detect a first input, a touch input device on the housing configured to receive a touch input from a user, and a battery in the housing. The light emitting device may be configured to generate a first illumination based on the first input. The light emitting unit may be configured to generate a second illumination based on the touch input.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for generating illumination, more particularly, to a multifunctional interactive illumination apparatus and systems and methods for generating illumination for the multifunctional interactive illumination apparatus.

BACKGROUND

Flashlights and other portable illumination devices provide lighting in various situations where visibility may be limited. Flashlights are generally powered by one or more batteries. A switch is usually located on the flashlight body to turn the light on or off. Flashlights can serve as an important part of an emergency kit, which can be important for survival in an emergency situation. These conventional flashlights are convenient and portable, but they lack useful functionalities that may be helpful for effectively responding to emergency situations and avoiding potential dangers.

The present disclosure is directed to overcoming one or more of these above-referenced challenges and deficiencies. The background description provided herein is for the purpose of generally presenting context of the disclosure. Unless otherwise indicated herein, the materials described in this section are not prior art to the claims in this application and are not admitted to be prior art, or suggestions of the prior art, by inclusion in this section.

SUMMARY

According to certain aspects of the present disclosure, multifunctional interactive illumination apparatuses, systems and methods are disclosed for improving conventional flashlights. Each of the aspects disclosed herein may include one or more of the features described in connection with any of the other disclosed aspects.

According to one aspect, an interactive illumination apparatus is provided. The interactive illumination apparatus may include: a housing; a light emitting device arranged on a first end of the housing; a first button on the housing configured to detect a first input; a touch input device on the housing configured to receive a touch input from a user; and a battery in the housing. The light emitting device may be configured to generate a first illumination based on the first input. The light emitting unit may be configured to generate a second illumination based on the touch input.

Any of the interactive illumination apparatus described herein may include any of the following features. The interactive illumination apparatus may include a solar panel on the housing. The solar panel may be configured to generate power to charge the rechargeable battery. The light emitting device may include a plurality of light emitting diodes or a laser excited phosphors. The interactive illumination apparatus may include a second button configured to detect a second input. The light emitting unit may be configured to generate a third illumination based on the second input. The touch input device may be configured to detect a writing on the touchscreen. The light emitting device may be configured to generate the second illumination based on the writing. The second illumination may include at least one of an image, a text, a shape, or a combination thereof. The touch input device may include a touchscreen display. The touchscreen display may be configured to display a user interface including a graphical input element. The interactive illumination apparatus may include a second button configured to detect a second input, and a speaker and a microphone in the housing. The microphone may be configured to detect an audio command of the user, and the speaker is configured to generate a first sound or a third illumination based on the audio command. The interactive illumination apparatus may include a sensing unit in the housing configured to detect a position of the apparatus. The light emitting unit may be configured to generate the first illumination based on a first position of the apparatus, and the light emitting unit may be configured to generate a third illumination based on a second position of the apparatus. The light emitting unit may include a mask. The mask may be a programmable mask. The mask may be configured to change a shape of the mask based on first input or the touch input. The interactive illumination apparatus may include a third button on the housing configured to detect a third input. The touchscreen device may be configured to activate based on the third input. The interactive illumination apparatus may include a fourth button on the housing configured to detect a fourth input. Intensity of the first illumination may be modified or a size of the first illumination may be modified based on the fourth input.

According to one aspect, a method is provided for executing functions of an interactive illumination apparatus. The method may include: receiving a first input signal from a first button; upon receiving the first input signal, generating a first illumination signal; generating a first illumination based on the first illumination signal; receiving a second input signal from a second button; upon receiving the second input signal, generating a second illumination signal; generating a second illumination based on the second illumination signal; receiving a third input signal from a touch input device; upon receiving the third input signal, generating a third illumination signal; and generating a third illumination based on the third illumination signal.

Any of the methods described here may include any of the following steps or features. The method may further include receiving a third input signal from a third button, and upon receiving the third input signal, activating the touch input device. The method may further include the steps of: receiving the second input signal for a first time period; upon receiving the second input signal for the first time period, generating one or more vibrations via a vibrating device; and upon receiving the second input signal for the first time period, transmitting a cellular or satellite call to a first number. The method may further include the steps of: after receiving the second input signal for the first time period, receiving an additional input signal from the second button for a second period of time; and upon receiving the additional input signal for the second period of time, generating an audio output. The method may further include the steps of: determining a first orientation of the interactive illumination apparatus; upon determining the first orientation, generating a fourth illumination based on a fourth illumination signal; determining a second orientation of the interactive illumination apparatus; and upon determining the second orientation, generating a fifth illumination based on a fifth illumination signal. The method may further include the steps of: determining a first orientation of the interactive illumination apparatus; upon determining the first orientation, generating a fourth illumination based on a fourth illumination signal; determining a second orientation of the interactive illumination apparatus; and upon determining the second orientation, turning off the fourth illumination. The method may further include the steps of: receiving a fourth input signal from a fourth button; and upon receiving the fourth input signal, modifying intensity of the first illumination or modifying a size of the first illumination.

According to one aspect, a non-transitory computer-readable medium may store instructions for executing functions of an interactive illumination apparatus, the instructions, when executed by one or more processors, causing the one or more processors to perform operations comprising: receiving a first input signal from a first button; upon receiving the first input signal, generating a first illumination signal; generating a first illumination based on the first illumination signal; receiving a second input signal from a second button; upon receiving the second input signal, generating a second illumination signal; generating a second illumination based on the second illumination signal; receiving a third input signal from a touch input device; upon receiving the third input signal, generating a third illumination signal; and generating a third illumination based on the third illumination signal.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The subject matter of the present description will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, which form a part thereof, and which show, by way of illustration, specific exemplary embodiments. An embodiment or implementation described herein as “exemplary” is not to be construed as preferred or advantageous, for example, over other embodiments or implementations; rather, it is intended to reflect or indicate that the embodiment(s) is/are “example” embodiment(s). Subject matter can be embodied in a variety of different forms and, therefore, covered or claimed subject matter is intended to be construed as not being limited to any exemplary embodiments set forth herein; exemplary embodiments are provided merely to be illustrative. Likewise, a reasonably broad scope for claimed or covered subject matter is intended. Among other things, for example, subject matter may be embodied as methods, devices, components, or systems. Accordingly, embodiments may, for example, take the form of hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof (other than software per se). The following detailed description is, therefore, not intended to be taken in a limiting sense.

In this disclosure, the term “based on” means “based at least in part on.” The terms including the ordinal number such as “first”, “second” and the like, may be used to distinguish one element from another among various elements, but not intended to limit the elements by the terms. The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context dictates otherwise. The term “exemplary” is used in the sense of “example” rather than “ideal.” The term “or” is meant to be inclusive and means either, any, several, or all of the listed items. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” “including,” or other variations thereof, are intended to cover a nonexclusive inclusion such that a process, method, or product that comprises a list of elements does not necessarily include only those elements, but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Relative terms, such as, “substantially” and “generally,” are used to indicate a possible variation of ±5% of a stated or understood value.

In addition, throughout the specification, when a portion is referred to as being “connected” or “coupled” to another portion, it is not limited to the case that they are “directly connected” or “directly coupled”, but it also includes the case where they are “indirectly connected” or “indirectly coupled” with one or more elements being arranged between them.

For ease of description, portions of the disclosed devices and/or their components are referred to as proximal and distal portions. It should be noted that the term “proximal” is intended to refer to portions closer to a light source of the illumination apparatus of the present disclosure, and the term “distal” is used herein to refer to portions further away from the light source of the illumination apparatus, e.g., toward a bottom side of the illumination apparatus including a battery charging port. Similarly, extends “distally” indicates that a component extends in a distal direction, and extends “proximally” indicates that a component extends in a proximal direction. Additionally, terms that indicate the geometric shape of a component/surface may refer to exact and approximate shapes. Various portions, e.g., proximal or distal portions, of the illumination apparatus may also be referred by using ordinal numbers such as “first”, “second”, and the like, to distinguish one position, location and/or orientation from another, but not intended to limit the position, location, and/or orientation by the terms.

As discussed above, conventional flashlights lack useful functionalities that may be helpful for effectively responding to emergency situations and avoiding potential dangers. To address these problems, the present disclosure describes a multifunctional interactive illumination apparatus that is configured to generate illumination based on operation of one or more switches and a touchscreen input device by a user. Different illuminations may be generated based signals generated by at least one of the one or more switches, the touchscreen input device, an orientation or position sensing device, or a microphone. The illumination generated by the apparatus of the present disclosure may include messages, patterns, shapes, images, or video from the light generated by light emitting devices. Additionally, the apparatus of the present disclosure may include a speaker that may be configured to generate an alarm, siren, or other sounds based on signals generated by at least one of the one or more switches, the touchscreen input device, an orientation or position sensing device, or a microphone.

The multifunctional interactive illumination apparatus of the present disclosure improves the conventional flashlight technology by providing, among other things, illumination and sounds with programmable messages that can be utilized in various applications including, for example, but not limited to, emergency, security, entertainment, advertising, social, and gaming applications.

FIG.1Ashows a perspective view of an exemplary multifunctional interactive illumination apparatus100, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. The illumination apparatus100may be a flashlight or any other suitable light generating device configured to operate in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The illumination apparatus100may include a housing102and a touchscreen input device106on a front surface103of the housing102, as shown inFIG.1A. The housing102may be water resistant or waterproof. One or more means may be employed to seal the housing102to prevent water from entering the inside of the housing102. The one or more means may be rubber, sealant, adhesive, or any other suitable material applied at joints or other areas of the housing102to provide water resistant or waterproof characteristics to the apparatus100. The illumination apparatus100may also include light emitting devices104,114,116disposed on a top surface105at the proximal end of the housing102, and a battery (not shown in this figure for clarity of illustration) inside of the housing102configured to provide sufficient electrical power to the light emitting devices104,114,116. In the present disclosure, the battery may provide sufficient power to all components of the apparatus100requiring electrical power. In one embodiment, the battery may be a rechargeable battery, but is not limited thereto. The illumination apparatus100may also include a plurality of control buttons108,109,110on the front surface103near a distal end of the housing102, and a microphone/speaker unit118on the front surface103near the proximal end of the housing102. However, the locations of the control buttons108,109,110are not limited thereto. In this disclosure, the term button and switch are used interchangeably. The illumination apparatus100may also include intensity control buttons112a,112bon a side surface107anear the proximal end of the housing102, as shown inFIG.1A, but the location of the intensity control buttons112a,112bis not limited thereto. In the present disclosure the control buttons108,109,110,112a, and112bmay be mechanically actuated or electrically actuated. For example, the control buttons108,109,110,112a, and112bmay include spring loaded mechanism to impart tactile feedback to the user when pressed. Alternatively, the control buttons108,109,110,112a, and112bmay include capacitive or resistive touch sensors and/or piezoelectric switches. Additionally, the control buttons108,109,110,112a, and112bmay include integrated haptic or vibration generators to impart haptic signals or vibrations upon activation.

Still referring toFIG.1A, in one embodiment, the light emitting device104may comprise a plurality of light emitting diodes (LED) and/or laser excited phosphors (LEP) that are configured and arranged to generate various light or patterns of illumination in accordance with the present disclosure (later discuss in detail). The light emitting devices114and116may include lasers that are configured to generate one or more light beams or one or more patterns of light beams. The light beams generated by the light emitting devices114and116may be used as a pointer or for signaling in various environments. For example, one or more patterns of light generated by the light emitting devices114and116may be projected onto one or more surfaces of a surrounding area to signal or alert, for example, in cases of an emergency or other situations. Of course, the light emitting devices114and116may also be utilized as a standard laser pointer used, for example, during a presentation or a lecture, or may be utilized for various other entertainment purposes.

In one embodiment, the touch screen input device106may comprise a capacitive or resistive sensor integrated with a liquid crystal display, an organic LED (OLED), electrophoretic display, or any other suitable display. The touchscreen input device106may be configured to receive touch or gesture input from a user via one or more fingers, a stylus, or any other suitable input device. The touchscreen input device106may generate one or more user interfaces configured to display graphical elements designed for interacting with the user. For example, upon actuation by touch, the graphical elements may be configured to generate or transmit appropriate signals control the light emitting device104,114, and/or116of the apparatus100to generate a desired type of illumination (later discussed in detail).

In one embodiment, the control button108may be a power on/off switch, the control button109may be a touchscreen on/off switch, and the control button110may be an emergency switch. For example, when the power on/off switch108is pressed or actuated, the apparatus110may be turned on to generate light from the light emitting device104,114, and/or116. In some embodiments, the touchscreen input device106may turn on to display an image (e.g., a brand logo) for a predetermined period of time (e.g., two seconds, but not limited thereto) and then turn off thereafter. When the power on/off switch108is pressed again, the apparatus110may be turned off. In some embodiments, the touchscreen input device106may turn on to display an image (e.g., a brand logo) for a predetermined period of time (e.g., two seconds, but not limited thereto) and then turn off thereafter.

In one embodiment, when the power of the apparatus100is on, the touch screen on/off switch109may be pressed or actuated to activate the touchscreen input device106to display a graphical user interface. The user interface may provide one or more options for the user to provide input to the touchscreen input device106for controlling illumination of the apparatus100(later discussed in detail in connection withFIGS.5A-C). In some embodiments, activating an element on the user interface of the touchscreen input device106may generate one or more sounds. For example, the one or more sounds may be generated by the microphone/speaker unit118.

In one embodiment, the emergency switch110may be pressed or actuated for at least a predetermined period of time (e.g., few seconds, but not limited thereto) to put the apparatus100in one or more emergency modes. For example, if the emergency switch110is pressed, for example, for three seconds, but not limited thereto, the apparatus100may activate a silent alert mode. In the silent alert mode, for example, an emergency signal or call may be transmitted automatically to an appropriate emergency or help entity or facility, for example, a police station, a fire station, first responders, or other suitable emergency services. Additionally or alternatively, the apparatus100may be programmed to include one or more phone numbers for the automatic transmission of the emergency signal or call. Further, the apparatus100may place the live emergency calls via cellular or satellite signals to facilitate live communication with appropriate entities. Additionally, the apparatus100may transmit a global position system (GPS) coordinate information to above-described services and entities. In one embodiment, when the emergency switch110is pressed and held, vibrations may be generated at each second to aid the user to count the number of seconds for entering the desired emergency mode. For example, to enter the silent alert mode, a user may press and hold the emergency switch110for three vibrations and then release. The vibrations will aid the user to enter the silent alert mode discretely in situations where the activation of the emergency mode in sight could put the user in potential danger, for example, from a potential criminal.

In one embodiment, pressing or activating and holding the emergency switch110after the apparatus100has entered the silent alert mode may trigger the apparatus100to enter into a loud alert mode. In the loud alert mode, for example, in addition to transmitting the emergency signal or call and the GPS coordinate information, loud alarm or other suitable sounds may be generated, for example, by the microphone/speaker unit118. Additionally, the apparatus100may generate illumination including an S.O.S. or other suitable emergency messages. In an emergency situation, for example, the apparatus100in the loud alert mode may aid any responder or helper in the vicinity of the user to easily locate the user by following the loud alarm or sound and the illumination with the S.O.S. or other suitable emergency messages. Similar to the silent alert mode, the loud alert mode may be triggered when the emergency switch110is pressed and held for a predetermined period of time either during the silent alert mode or the normal mode. That is, if the apparatus100is already in the silent alert mode, the emergency switch119may be pressed and held, for example, for three seconds, but not limited thereto. Alternatively, if the apparatus100is not in the silent alert mode and is in a normal power on or power off mode, the emergency switch119may be pressed and held, for example, for five seconds. Similar to the silent mode, vibrations may be generated at each second to aid the user to count the number of seconds for entering the desired emergency mode based on the haptic or vibration feedback. For example, to enter the loud alert mode from the silent alert mode, a user may press and hold the emergency switch110for three vibrations and then release. Alternatively, to enter the loud mode from a normal power on or power off mode, a user may press and hold the emergency switch110for five vibrations and then release. The vibrations will aid the user to enter the loud alert mode to alert any responders or helpers to find the user, for example, in distress. Additionally, the loud alert and sound and illumination generated by the apparatus100may scare potential criminals away from the user that may be in a compromising or dangerous situation.

Still referring toFIG.1A, in one embodiment, the intensity control buttons112a,112bmay include “+” and “−” buttons. For example, the intensity + button112amay increase the intensity of the illumination generated by the light emitting device104, and the intensity − button112bmay decrease the intensity of the illumination. That is, when the intensity + button112ais pressed, the illumination generated by the light emitting device104may get brighter. Each time the intensity + button112ais pressed, the brightness or intensity may increase incrementally. Similarly, when the intensity − button112bis pressed, the illumination generated by the light emitting device104may get darker. Each time the intensity − button112bis pressed, the brightness or intensity may decrease incrementally.

FIG.1Bshows another perspective view of the illumination apparatus100, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, a back surface111of the housing102of the apparatus100is shown. In this embodiment, the illumination apparatus100may include a solar panel120on the back surface111of the housing102. The solar panel120may generate electrical power when exposed to sunlight to charge the rechargeable battery in the apparatus120. In one embodiment, if battery power is not sufficient, touchscreen input device106may display an out of power message (e.g., “empty battery”). Additionally, the illumination apparatus100may include beam control buttons122a,122bon a side surface107bnear the proximal end of the housing102and opposite the side surface107awhere the control buttons112a,112bare disposed, as shown inFIG.1B, but the location of the beam control buttons122a,122bis not limited thereto. The control buttons122a, and122bmay be mechanically actuated or electrically actuated. For example, the control buttons122aand122bmay include spring loaded mechanism to impart tactile feedback to the user when pressed. Alternatively, the control buttons122a, and122bmay include capacitive or resistive touch sensors and/or piezoelectric switches. Additionally, the control buttons122a, and122bmay include integrated haptic or vibration generators to impart haptic signals or vibrations upon activation.

In one embodiment, the beam control buttons122a,122bmay include “+” and “−” buttons. For example, the beam + button122amay increase the size or change shape of the illumination generated by the light emitting device104, and the beam − button122bmay decrease the size or change shape of the illumination. That is, when the beam + button122ais pressed, the illumination generated by the light emitting device104may get bigger or change shape. For example, if the illumination has a projected conical shape, the width and/or length of the conical shape may increase. Each time the beam + button122ais pressed, the shape or size of the illumination may change or increase incrementally. Similarly, when the beam − button122bis pressed, the illumination generated by the light emitting device104may get smaller or change shape. For example, if the illumination has a projected conical shape, the width and/or length of the conical shape may decrease. Each time the beam − button122bis pressed, the shape or size of the illumination may change or decrease incrementally. The control buttons112a,112b,122a, and122bmay not be limited to control the intensity and beam size/shape of the illumination generated by the apparatus. In some embodiments, one or more of the control buttons112a,112b,122a, and122bmay be programmed to control the volume of the sound generated by the microphone/speaker unit118based on one or more modes of the apparatus100. For example, when the apparatus100is in the loud mode, one or more of the control buttons112a,112b,122a, and122bmay be programmed to control the level of volume of the loud alarm or other sounds that may be generated by the microphone/speaker unit118. For example, when the beam + button122aor the intensity + button112ais pressed, the alarm or other sounds generated during the loud mode may get louder, and when the beam − button122bor the intensity − button112bis pressed, the alarm or other sounds may get quieter.

FIG.1Cshows another perspective view of the illumination apparatus100, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, the front surface103, a bottom surface105, and the side surface107bof the housing102is shown. In one embodiment, the apparatus100may include a charging port132on the bottom surface105at the distal end of the apparatus100. The charging port132may supply electrical power to the battery in the housing102to charge the battery in the housing102. The charging port132may be configured to support USB, Micro USB, USB-C, or any other suitable connector type. In one embodiment, the charging port132may be utilized to communicate data with a computing device for programming or updating the software or firmware installed on the apparatus. Of course, any other suitable data may be transmitted and received to and from the apparatus100via the charging port132to facilitate the functionality of the apparatus100in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. Additionally, the apparatus100may include rod or bar accommodating openings134aand136a(hereinafter openings134a,136a). Rods or bars134band136b(hereinafter rods134b,136b) may be disposed inside of the housing102through the openings134aand136a, respectively. The rods may be made of metal, plastic, or other suitable material for being inserted into a surface, for example, a ground surface. The apparatus100may also include an actuator138on the side surface107bconfigured to be pressed in. The actuator138may include a button that is coupled to a spring mechanism inside of the housing102to release the rods134band136when pressed by a user.

FIG.1Dshows a perspective view the exemplary illumination apparatus100ofFIG.1Chaving configuration for projecting the rods134b,136bthrough the openings134aand136a, respectively, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the apparatus100is configured to project the rods134b,136boutward from inside of the housing102when a user presses the actuator138. After the rods134b,136bprojects through the openings134a,136a, the rods134b,136bmay be locked into place and prevented from retracting back inside the housing102. The rods134b,136bmay be configured to retract back into the housing102through the openings134a,136awhen the actuator138is pressed again. The pressing of the actuator138may release a locking mechanism coupled to the spring mechanism utilized for projecting the rods134b,136b. The locking mechanism and the spring mechanism are not shown in the figure for clarity of illustration. Any suitable mechanism configurable by one of ordinary skill in the art for projecting, locking, and retracting the rods134b,136bmay be utilized. In one embodiment, the rods134b,136bmay be released and projected out from the housing102via an electrical mechanism. For example, one or more switches or a combination of buttons or switches108,109,110,112a,112b,122a,122bmay be utilized to send an electrical signal to release the rods134b,136bupon actuation. For example, when the buttons122aand122bare pressed together simultaneously, an electrical signal may be generated to actuate a motor or spring mechanism inside of the housing102to release and project the rods134b,136b. Additionally, when the buttons112aand112bare pressed together simultaneously again, the rods134b,136bmay retract back into the housing102via the openings134a,134b. In this embodiment, the actuator138may not be necessarily provided.

FIG.1Eshows a perspective view of the illumination apparatus100ofFIGS.1C-Dhaving configuration for being secured on a surface, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. As shown inFIG.1E, the apparatus100may be secured vertically on a surface (e.g., ground surface) to project illumination or light vertically upward into the sky or clouds. The apparatus100may be secured vertically at any suitable angle based on the manner or angle of inserting the rods134b,134binto the ground. The angle of the insertion of the rods134a,134bmay be adjusted as desired by the user. For example, the locked rods134b,136bmay be inserted into a surface by applying adequate downward pressure into the surface (e.g., dirt, rocks, pebbles, etc.). The rods134b,136bmay contain spikes (not shown) that can facilitate the insertion into a surface. The spikes can be integrated as part of the rods or can be detachable spikes that can be attached when it is more convenient for inserting the rods into the surface. In one embodiment, the illumination generated by the apparatus100inserted into a surface may create a beam (e.g., white beam) of light projected into the sky or clouds. Such beam of light may serve as a beacon for signifying a location of the user. For example, if a hiker is lost or distressed in the woods at night, the vertical beam of light generated from the apparatus100that inserted into a surface may help guide a responder or helper to find the hiker that is lost. Additionally, the apparatus100may generate alarm or other sounds to serve as an audio beacon to further aid the responder or helper in finding the hiker that is lost or distressed.

FIG.1Fshows a perspective view of the illumination apparatus100having configuration for storing rods or styluses138a,138b, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. The illumination apparatus100shown inFIG.1Fincludes substantially similar characteristics as the apparatus100shown inFIG.1C. Accordingly, explanations with respect to the substantially similar elements will be omitted for brevity. In this embodiment, the apparatus100may include stylus accommodating openings134aand136a. Styluses138aand138bmay be disposed and secured inside of the housing102through the openings134aand136a, respectively. The styluses138a,138bmay be made of metal, plastic, or other suitable material for facilitating input operations on the touchscreen input device106. In one embodiment, the apparatus100may be configured to release the styluses138a,138bfrom a locking mechanism inside of the housing102and may project outward through the openings134a,136awhen a user applies a predetermined amount of pressure (e.g., 0.1 to 0.5 psi, but not limited thereto) to the styluses138a,138bin a direction toward the inside of the housing102. Once the styluses138a,138bare released, a user may slide out the styluses138a,138bthrough the openings134a,136ato use the styluses138a,138bfor providing input to the touchscreen input device106or propping the apparatus100against the styluses138a,138bon a surface (e.g., ground). The styluses138a,138bmay be inserted back into the housing102through the openings134a,136bby sliding the styluses138a,138bthrough the openings134a,134b. A user may apply a predetermined amount of pressure (e.g., 0.1 to 0.5 psi, but not limited thereto) to the styluses138a,138bin a direction toward the inside of the housing102to click and lock the styluses138a,138bback into the housing102. The locking mechanism and/or the spring mechanism configured to release and lock the styluses138a,138bare not shown in this figure for clarity of illustration. Any suitable mechanism configurable by one of ordinary skill in the art for projecting, locking, and releasing the styluses138a,138bmay be utilized. In one embodiment, the styluses138a,138bmay be released and projected out from the housing102via an electrical mechanism. For example, one or more switches or a combination of buttons or switches108,109,110,112a,112b,122a,122bmay be utilized to send an electrical signal to release the styluses138a,138bupon actuation. For example, when the buttons122aand122bare pressed together simultaneously, an electrical signal may be generated to actuate a motor or spring mechanism inside of the housing102to release and project the styluses138a,138b.

FIG.1Gshows another perspective view of the illumination apparatus100ofFIG.1F, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. The illumination apparatus100shown inFIG.1Gincludes substantially similar characteristics as the apparatus100shown inFIG.1B. Accordingly, explanations with respect to the substantially similar elements will be omitted for brevity. In this embodiment, the back surface111of the housing102of the apparatus100is shown. In this embodiment, the apparatus100may include grooves, indentations, or depressions124aand124b(hereinafter grooves124a,124b). The grooves124a,124bmay be configured to mate with the styluses138a,138bfor securing the apparatus100vertically at an angle on a surface. As shown inFIG.1H, the styluses138a,138bmay be inserted into a surface (e.g., ground). The apparatus100may then be propped against the styluses138a,138bby mating the grooves124a,124bwith the ends of the styluses138a,138b, as shown inFIG.1H. The grooves124a,124bmay be shaped to match the ends of the styluses138a,138bto securely prop the apparatus100against the styluses138a,138b. As shown inFIG.1H, the apparatus100may be secured vertically or at a suitable angle on a surface (e.g., ground surface) to project illumination or light substantially vertically upward into the sky, clouds, or a surface. The apparatus100may be secured vertically at any suitable angle based on the manner or angle of inserting the rods138b,138binto the ground. The angle of the insertion of the rods138a,138bmay be adjusted as desired by the user. In one embodiment, the illumination generated by the apparatus100propped vertically on a surface may generation illumination in a beam, a pattern, a shape, or an image and may project the illumination into the sky, clouds, or a surface. Such illumination may serve as a beacon for signifying a location of the user. For example, if a hiker is lost or distressed in the woods at night, the illumination generated from the apparatus100may help guide a responder or helper to find the hiker that is lost. Additionally, the apparatus100may generate alarm or other sounds to serve as an audio beacon to further aid the responder or helper in finding the hiker that is lost or distressed. Alternatively, the apparatus100may project images or video onto a surface for entertainment purposes. For example, a camper may project images or videos onto a surface inside of a tent to view pictures or watching a movie. In this case, the apparatus100may function similarly to a portable projector.

FIG.1Ishows another perspective view of the illumination apparatus100, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. The illumination apparatus100shown inFIG.1Iincludes substantially similar characteristics as the apparatus100shown inFIG.1B. Accordingly, explanations with respect to the substantially similar elements will be omitted for brevity. In this embodiment, the back surface111of the housing102of the apparatus100is shown. In this embodiment, the apparatus100may include channels127aand127b. The channels127a,127bmay be configured to store rods or bars123a,123b(hereinafter rods123a,123b) for securing the apparatus100vertically or at an angle on a surface, as shown inFIGS.1I and1J. The apparatus100may include rotating mechanisms125a,125bto facilitate rotation of the rods123a,123b. For example, the rotating mechanisms125a,125bmay include metal bars that go through the rods123a,123b. Accordingly, the rods123a,123bmay be rotated about the axes of the metal bars. The metal bars are not shown in these figures for clarity of illustration. The rotating mechanisms125a,125bmay be any other suitable mechanisms known by one of ordinary skill in the art to facilitate rotation of the rods123a,123b.

Referring toFIG.1J, the rods123a,123bmay be rotated about the rotating mechanisms125a,125bto project the rods123a,123bfrom the bottom surface113(bottom surface not shown for clarity of illustration). The rotating mechanism125a,125bmay be configured to lock the rods123a,123bwhen fully rotated, as shown inFIG.1J. Additionally, the rotating mechanisms125a,125b, may be configured to lock the rods123a,123bat a predetermine rotation angle. For example, the rods123a,123bmay be locked (e.g., via a click locking mechanism) at every 15 degrees of rotation, but is not limited thereto. In one embodiment, the apparatus100may be inserted into a surface (e.g., ground) when the rods123a,123bare fully rotated and locked into place with the rods123a,123bextending out from the bottom surface113, as shown inFIG.1J. As shown inFIG.1J, the apparatus100may be secured vertically on a surface (e.g., ground surface) to project illumination or light vertically upward into the sky or clouds. For example, the locked rods123a,123bmay be inserted into a surface by applying adequate downward pressure into the surface (e.g., dirt, rocks, pebbles, etc.). The rods125a,125bmay contain spikes (not shown) that can facilitate the insertion into a surface. The spikes can be integrated as part of the rods or can be detachable spikes that can be attached when it is more convenient for inserting the rods into the surface. In one embodiment, the illumination generated by the apparatus100inserted into a surface may create a beam (e.g., white beam) of light projected into the sky or clouds. Such beam of light may serve as a beacon for signifying a location of the user. For example, if a hiker is lost or distressed in the woods at night, the vertical beam of light generated from the apparatus100that inserted into a surface may help guide a responder or helper to find the hiker that is lost. Additionally, the apparatus100may generate alarm or other sounds to serve as an audio beacon to further aid the responder or helper in finding the hiker that is lost or distressed.

Additionally or alternatively, the apparatus100may be secured on a surface (e.g., ground surface) vertically at an angle (e.g., 150 degrees) to project illumination or light vertically upward into the sky, clouds, or a surface. In this embodiment, the angle of the apparatus100may be adjusted to a desired angle of the user. The illumination generated by the apparatus100secured on the surface may generate illumination in a form of a beam, a pattern, a shape, or an image and may project the illumination into the sky, clouds, or a surface. Such illumination may serve as a beacon for signifying a location of the user. For example, if a hiker is lost or distressed in the woods at night, the illumination generated from the apparatus100may help guide a responder or helper to find the hiker that is lost. Additionally, the apparatus100may generate alarm or other sounds to serve as an audio beacon to further aid the responder or helper in finding the hiker that is lost or distressed. Alternatively, the apparatus100may project images or video onto a surface for entertainment purposes. For example, a camper may project images or videos onto a surface inside of a tent to view pictures or watching a movie. In this case, the apparatus100may function similarly to a portable projector.

FIG.2shows a perspective view of an exemplary illumination apparatus200, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. The illumination apparatus200may be a flashlight or any other suitable light generating device configured to operate in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The illumination apparatus200may include a housing202and a touchscreen input device206on a front surface203of the housing202, as shown inFIG.2. The housing202may be water resistant or waterproof. One or more means may be employed to seal the housing202to prevent water from entering the inside of the housing202. The one or more means may be rubber, sealant, adhesive, or any other suitable material applied at joints or other areas of the housing202to provide water resistant or waterproof characteristics to the apparatus200. The illumination apparatus200may also include a light emitting device204disposed at the proximal end of the housing202, and a battery (not shown in this figure for clarity of illustration) inside of the housing202configured to provide sufficient electrical power to the light emitting device204. In the present disclosure, the battery may provide sufficient power to all components of the apparatus200requiring electrical power. In one embodiment, the battery may be a rechargeable battery, but is not limited thereto. The illumination apparatus200may also include a plurality of control buttons208,209,210on the front surface203near a distal end of the housing202, and a microphone/speaker unit218on the front surface203near the proximal end of the housing202. However, the locations of the control buttons208,209,210are not limited thereto. In this disclosure, the term button and switch are used interchangeably. The illumination apparatus200may also include intensity control buttons212a,212bon a first side near the proximal end of the housing202, as shown inFIG.2, but the location of the intensity control buttons212a,212bis not limited thereto. The illumination apparatus200may also include beam control buttons222a,222bon a second side near the proximal end of the housing202, as shown inFIG.2, but the location of the beam control buttons222a,222bis not limited thereto. In the present disclosure the control buttons208,209,210,212a,212b,222a, and/or222bmay be mechanically actuated or electrically actuated. For example, the control buttons208,209,210,212a,212b,222a, and/or222bmay include spring loaded mechanism to impart tactile feedback to the user when pressed. Alternatively, the control buttons208,209,210,212a,212b,222a, and/or222bmay include capacitive or resistive touch sensors and/or piezoelectric switches. Additionally, the control buttons208,209,210,212a,212b,222a, and/or222bmay include integrated haptic or vibration generators to impart haptic signals or vibrations upon activation.

The apparatus200shown inFIG.2includes characteristics that are substantially similar to the apparatus100shown inFIGS.1A and1B. Accordingly, the apparatus200may include a solar panel (not shown inFIG.2for clarity of illustration) on a surface opposite the touchscreen input device206. In this embodiment, the apparatus200includes a cylindrical shape. Accordingly, the touch screen input device206may comprise a flexible or a curved capacitive or resistive sensor integrated with a flexible or curved liquid crystal display, organic LED (OLED), electrophoretic display, or any other suitable display.

FIG.3shows an exemplary illumination system300, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. The system300may facilitate operation of the apparatus100or200disclosed in connection withFIGS.1A-2according to embodiments of the present disclosure by utilizing one or more components shown inFIG.3. The system300, as well as the processes, methods, and functionality performed by the system300, solve the technological problems arising in the conventional flashlight technology. That is, the system300, processes, and methods of the present disclosure described herein are directed to an improvement in the conventional flashlight field and are practically applicable to the field of multifunctional interactive illumination apparatus by utilizing the illumination apparatus100or200, as well as the methods, processes and functionality disclosed in connections withFIGS.1A-7of the present disclosure.

In one embodiment, the illumination system300may comprise an input device302, light source(s)310and a battery318. The input device302may comprise the touchscreen device106disclosed in connection with one or more embodiments ofFIGS.1A-7, or any other suitable input means for receiving input from a user. The light source(s)310may comprise the light emitting devices104,112,116disclosed in connection with one or more embodiments ofFIGS.1A-7. The battery318may comprise a battery inside of the apparatus100or200to provide sufficient power to the various components of the system300. Alternatively, the battery318may comprise an external battery configured provide sufficient power to the various components of the system300, as well as charging an internal battery of the system300. The system300may also comprise a charging device306. The charging device may comprise the solar panel120or other external charging device (e.g., external battery).

In one embodiment, the system300may include actuation device(s)314. The actuation device(s)314may comprise the control buttons208,209,210,212a,212b,222a, and/or222bdisclosed in connection with one or more embodiments ofFIGS.1A-7to facilitate generation of user input signals for performing one or more functionalities of the apparatus100or200. Additionally, the actuation device(s)314may comprise integrated haptic or vibration generators to impart haptic signals or vibrations upon activation in connection with embodiments of the present disclosure. The system300may also include a microphone(s)308and a speaker(s)312. The microphone(s)308and the speaker(s)312may be separate components or may be provided as an integrated single component. The microphone(s)308and the speaker(s)312may comprise the microphone/speaker device108disclosed in connection with one or more embodiments ofFIGS.1A-7to facilitate generation of audio signals based on a user voice input and/or to generation alarm or other sounds according to various functionality disclosed in the present disclosure.

In one embodiment, the system may include a sending device(s)316. Although not shown in the apparatus100or200shown in connection withFIGS.1A-7, the sending device(s)316may be disposed within the housing102or202of the apparatus100or200to perform various functions relating to the sending device(s)316in connection with embodiments of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the sensing device(s)316may comprise one or more sensors (e.g., accelerometer) to determine a relative position of the apparatus100or200(e.g. three coordinates) as well as a relative orientation of the apparatus100or200(e.g., three angles) with regard to the user. This tracking information may amount to 6 degrees of freedom for the apparatus100or200that may determine how the illumination may be generated (later described in further detail inFIG.6B). The sensing device(s)316may also comprise a GPS and a digital compass sensor configured to detect the direction and magnitude of external magnetic fields.

In one embodiment, the system a controller304and a memory320to facilitate the operation of the system300and/or apparatus100or200in accordance with the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the controller304may comprises a computer processing unit or system (e.g., processor). Unless specifically stated otherwise, as apparent from the following discussions, it is appreciated that throughout the specification discussions utilizing terms such as “processing,” “computing,” “calculating,” “determining”, analyzing” or the like, refer to the action and/or processes of a computer or computing system, or similar electronic computing device, that manipulate and/or transform data represented as physical, such as electronic, quantities into other data similarly represented as physical quantities. In a similar manner, the term “processor” may refer to any device or portion of a device that processes electronic data, e.g., from registers and/or memory320to transform that electronic data into other electronic data that, e.g., may be stored in registers and/or memory. The controller304may include one or more processors. For example, the controller304may comprise a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or both. The controller302may comprise one or more general processors, digital signal processors, application specific integrated circuits, field programmable gate arrays, digital circuits, analog circuits, combinations thereof, or other now known or later developed devices for analyzing and processing data. The controller302may implement a software program, such as code generated manually (i.e., programmed). Additionally, the controller302may be configured facilitate cellular and/or satellite wireless communication.

In one embodiment, the memory320may store a set of instructions that can be executed to cause the controller302to perform any one or more of the methods or processes based on functionality disclosed in the present disclosure. The memory320may communicate via one or more electrical wires or buses. Likewise, although not shown, the components shown inFIG.3may be coupled to each other via one or more electrical wires and buses, in any suitable manner known by one of ordinary skill in the art, to facilitate signal or data communication and operation of the system300, in accordance with the present disclosure. The memory320may be a main memory, a static memory, or a dynamic memory. The memory320may include, but is not limited to computer readable storage media such as various types of volatile and non-volatile storage media, including but not limited to random access memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, electrically programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable read-only memory, flash memory, and the like. In one implementation, the memory320may include a cache or random-access memory for the controller304. The memory320may be a cache memory of a processor, the system memory, or other memory. The memory704may be operable to store instructions executable by the controller304. The functions, acts or tasks illustrated in the figures or described herein may be performed by the controller302executing the instructions stored in the memory320. The functions, acts or tasks are independent of the particular type of instructions set, storage media, processor or processing strategy and may be performed by software, hardware, integrated circuits, firmware, microcode and the like, operating alone or in combination. Likewise, processing strategies may include multiprocessing, multitasking, light source control, and the like. The computer readable storage media described in connection with the memory320in accordance with the present disclosure may be non-transitory, and may be tangible.

The illumination apparatus100or200, and system300disclosed in connection with embodiments ofFIGS.1A-7and the various elements therein comprised, which enable the implementation of methods and processes in accordance with the present disclosure, may be implemented by the controller304using a plurality of microprocessors executing software or firmware, or may be implemented using one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs) and related software. In other examples, the system300and the various elements therein comprised, which enable the implementation of methods and processes in connection with embodiments ofFIGS.1A-7, may be implemented using a combination of ASICs, discrete electronic components (e.g., transistors), and microprocessors. In some embodiments, components shown as separate may be replaced by a single component. In addition, some of the components displayed may be additional, or may be replaced by other components.

Computer-readable media having stored thereon instructions configured to cause one or more computers to perform any of the methods described herein are also described. A computer readable medium may include volatile or nonvolatile, removable or nonremovable media implemented in any method or technology capable of storing information, such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. In general, functionality of computing devices described herein may be implemented in computing logic embodied in hardware or software instructions, which can be written in a programming language, such as C, C++, COBOL, JAVA™, PHP, Perl, Python, Ruby, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, VBScript, ASPX, Microsoft .NET™ languages such as C#, and/or the like. Computing logic may be compiled into executable programs or written in interpreted programming languages. Generally, functionality described herein can be implemented as logic modules that can be duplicated to provide greater processing capability, merged with other modules, or divided into sub modules. The computing logic can be stored in any type of computer readable medium (e.g., a non-transitory medium such as a memory or storage medium) or computer storage device and be stored on and executed by one or more general purpose or special purpose processors, thus creating a special purpose computing device configured to provide functionality described herein.

FIG.4Ashows a block diagram of an exemplary illumination generation system400, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. The illumination control system400may include a light source(s)310and a light mask404. Additionally, the system400may include the controller304to control the light source(s)310and the light mask404in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, the controller304may receive one or more instructions from the memory320or other components of the system300or apparatus100or200to generate illumination. Upon receipt of the one or more instructions, the controller304may generate signals to control, for example, intensity and duration of light generated from the light source(s)310to be projected to the mask404. The controller304may control the mask404, for example, synchronously or asynchronously to generate desired illumination406. The illumination406may include, for example, a beam of light in various shapes including, but not limited to, a conical shape. Further, the illumination406may include other patterns or shapes of light including, for example, text, image, video, etc. in one or more colors.

In one embodiment, the controller304may be configured to control the mask404to operate synchronously or asynchronously with the input device302. For example, when the input device302(e.g., touchscreen input device106or206) has a blank screen (e.g., white or any other suitable color), the mask404may be substantially transparent so as to allow majority of the light generated by the light source(s)310to pass through the mask404to generate, for example, a white or other desired solid color light or illumination. Alternatively, when the touchscreen input device106or206detects a writing or drawing input on the touchscreen, one or more pixels on the mask404may be masked or shadowed to generate the illumination406comprising the writing or drawing. As described in the foregoing disclosure, the light source(s)310may include one or more LEDs or LEPs (later described in detail inFIGS.4A and4B). In one embodiment, the mask404may comprise a liquid crystal panel (e.g., transparent liquid crystal panel) that may be controlled by the controller304to change the opacity of the pixels of the liquid crystal panel to generate a desired illumination in the form of a grayscale (or black and white) or color image, video, shape, text, etc. Alternatively, the mask404may comprise an electrophoretic panel (e.g., transparent E-ink display panel) that may be controlled by the controller304to generate a desired illumination in the form of a grayscale (or black and white) or color image, video, shape, text, etc. Alternatively, the mask404may include powder in each of the pixels of the mask that may be movable when a magnetic signal is applied. Accordingly, the controller204may control magnetic signals to cover one or more pixels of the mask with powder (e.g., metallic black powder) to generated desired illumination.

FIG.4Bshows a block diagram of the illumination generation system400, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, the illumination generation system400may be include a LEP light source. For example, the illumination generation system may include a phosphor element416and a metal element418. Although not shown in this figure, the system400may comprise the controller304connected to one or more components in the system400to facilitate generation of light or illumination. For example, the controller304may be configured to facilitate generation of blue laser beam421(the blue laser and the blue laser beam on the opposite side of the lens420is not shown in this figure for clarity of illustration) that may be focused by a lens420to excite the phosphor element416to generate visible light422that may be focused via lenses410to focus the light that is distinctively bright white and long-reaching LEP beam. In another embodiment, the lenses410may be arranged between the mask404and the phosphor element416instead of being in front of the mask404, as shown inFIG.4B. The system400employing an LEP, as described above, may generate highly concentrated beam with high luminosity and a long-range beam reaching over a mile. Accordingly, the system400may be useful for camping in the wilderness, exploring caves, or working in low-light conditions or for creating a beam of light projected into the sky or clouds. Such beam of light may serve as a beacon for signifying a location of a hiker who may be lost.

In one embodiment, the lenses410may be controlled to amplify brightness or change the field of projection of the light beam. For example, when the switches112a,112b,122a, and/or122bare pressed, the controller404may generate signals to control the angle and position of one or more of the lenses410to modify the intensity of the brightness or the field of projection (e.g., change the width or focus of the beam).

In one embodiment, the system400may include ventilators412,414to cool down the heat generated by the laser and the phosphor element416of the system400. The location of the ventilators412,414, as shown inFIG.4B, are not limited thereto.

FIG.4Cshows a block diagram of the illumination generation system400, according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, the system400may include a plurality of LEDs430. The intensity of the light432generated by the LEDs430may be multiplied based on the number of LEDs430provided. The LEDs430may comprise white and/or color LEDs to generate light432. The system400may include components that are substantially similar to the system400shown inFIG.4B, and the light432generated by the LEDs430may be controlled to amplify the brightness or change the field of projection (e.g., change the width or focus of the beam) substantially similar to the system400shown inFIG.4B. Accordingly, explanations with respect to the substantially similar elements will be omitted for brevity.

The system400shown in4B and4C employ LEDs and LEPs. However, in one embodiment, the system400may comprise, additionally or alternatively, a suitable light emitting device used in a portable projector device. Accordingly, the illumination system400or apparatus100or200may also function as a portable projector to display images and video.

FIGS.5A-Cillustrate block diagrams showing the touchscreen input device106and the switches108,109, and110of the apparatus100or200or system300(the touchscreen input device and the switches are numbered in reference to apparatus100for clarity of illustration and explanation) disclosed in connection with embodiments of theFIGS.1A-7.FIGS.5A-Cshow the user interface501including a plurality of graphical dots509indicating the status of the user interface501. For example, when the first dot of the plurality of dots509is solid, the user interface501may be in a mode or page as shown inFIG.5A, when the second dot is solid, the user interface501may be in a mode or page as shown inFIG.5B, and when the third dot is solid, the user interface501may be in a mode or page as shown inFIG.5C. The mode or the page of the user interface501may be switched by swiping the screen of the input device106with one or more fingers or a stylus. For example, when a user swipes the touchscreen with one or more fingers from a right side of the touchscreen to the left side of the screen, the mode or page of the user interface501may change from the interface501shown inFIG.5Ato the interface501shown inFIG.5B. When the interface501shown inFIG.5Achanges to the interface shown inFIG.5B, the first dot of the plurality of dots509will change from solid to empty, and the second dot will change from empty to solid, as shown inFIG.5B. When the user swipes one or more fingers across the touchscreen again from the right side of the touchscreen to the left side of the screen, the mode or page of the user interface501may change from the interface501shown inFIG.5Bto the interface501shown inFIG.5C. Also, when the interface501shown inFIG.5Bchanges to the interface shown inFIG.5C, the second dot of the plurality of dots509will change from solid to empty, and the third dot will change from empty to solid, as shown inFIG.5B. If the user swipes the touchscreen in the reverse direction, the user interface501will change from the interface shown inFIG.5Cto the interface shown inFIG.5B, and then from the interface shown inFIG.5Bto the interface shown inFIG.5A. The dots509will change from solid to empty similarly, but in reverse direction.

FIG.5Ashows the user interface501in a mode or page including a plurality of graphical elements502-508. The graphical elements502-508may be programmed to actuate one or more functionalities of the apparatus100or200or system300disclosed in connection with embodiments of theFIGS.1A-7. For example, the graphical element502may be programmed so that when a user touches the element502, the apparatus100or200or system300may generate illumination including a first message (e.g., “Help!”). As shown inFIG.6A, the apparatus100may project an illumination including a message604including the first message (e.g., “Help!.”). In one embodiment, after pressing the element502, the touchscreen input device106may also display a message602(e.g., “Help!”), as shown inFIG.6A. Of course, the elements502-508may be programmed with any message the user desires. Further, the elements502-508are referred herein by using ordinal numbers such as “first”, “second”, and the like, to distinguish one from another, but they are not intended to limit the position and/or functionality by the terms, as with any other elements described using such naming convention in this disclosure.

In one embodiment, element508may include an icon508A (e.g., a speaker icon). The icon508A may indicate that an alarm or a sound corresponding to the programmed message of the element508may be generated when activated. Accordingly, when a user touches the element508, the apparatus100or200or system300may generate, for example, an illumination including a fourth message (e.g., “S.O.S.”) and an alarm or siren to alert a responder or helper in the vicinity of the user. In one embodiment, the alarm, siren, or other sounds may be loud enough to be heard, for example, within at least a 20-meter radius, but is not limited thereto. Accordingly, the responder or helper may locate the user by following not only the illumination with the message, but also the alarm, siren, or other sounds. Accordingly, the illumination and the sounds generated by apparatus100or200or system300may function as a beacon for locating the user.

FIG.5Bshows the user interface501in a mode or page configured to receive touch or gesture input from a user via one or more fingers or a stylus. In this embodiment, a user may write messages or draw figures or shapes. For example, the messages, figures, or shapes written or drawn on the touchscreen input device106may be generated in the form of illumination by the apparatus100as shown inFIG.6A. In this example, a user may write “Help!”602on the touchscreen input device106, and the message602may be synchronously (e.g., real time) or asynchronously displayed in the illumination604. In one embodiment, the interface501may include one or more graphical icon (e.g., enter) that can be activated by a user to confirm displaying the message in the illumination604. In this case, the message, shape, or figure drawn on the touchscreen input device106may be displayed asynchronously in the illumination604. In one embodiment, the touchscreen input device106may comprise a color touchscreen. Accordingly, any color drawing produced on the touchscreen input device106by the user may be synchronized with the light emitting devices to generate color illumination that replicates the color drawing produced by the user. Accordingly, when the illumination is projected synchronously in real time, a dynamic projection of the illumination may be facilitated by the apparatus100. Conversely, when the illumination is projected asynchronously, as described above, a static projection of the illumination may be facilitated by the apparatus100. For example, in the dynamic projection mode, the apparatus100may project illumination similarly to the roman candle fireworks where you write your name in the air, but instead with the apparatus100. One or more dynamic shape, pattern, images, text, etc. may be stored in the memory320and reproduced later when activated via the apparatus100. The apparatus100may be activated by selecting an image or text provided by the user interface, or may be selected through a voice input. Additionally, the user interface may include a text editor. Accordingly, a selected or drawn images or text may be further styled or embellished through the user interface (e.g., some letters may be one highlighted, bolded, added italics, colored, or may blink while other are not). The dynamic shape or pattern may be projected or display one or repeated in loops. These functionalities may entertainment purposes, but may also serve for business purposes, such as projecting or display ads via the illumination generated by the apparatus100(e.g., dynamically writing or projecting text or an image of Coca Cola in the sky). Additionally or alternatively, in the dynamic projection mode, a sound output may be synchronized with illumination generated by the apparatus100. For example, sound may be added to the dynamic projection as the apparatus100projects or draws an image or text in air via illumination.

FIG.5Cshows the user interface501in a digital compass mode. A user may utilize the digital compass mode to find directions if necessary. The apparatus may utilize the sensing device(s)316comprising a GPS and a digital compass sensor configured to detect the direction and magnitude of external magnetic fields. When the apparatus100is pointed at different directions, the graphical needle on the digital compass shown inFIG.5Cmay change its direction. In one embodiment, a user may pair a smartphone application to the apparatus100or200or system300via a Bluetooth communication, and may use the smartphone application to share content (e.g., a picture, a text, drawings, etc.), remotely activate an emergency signal and/or check for positions of using hikers. For example, a smartphone application that is pairable with the apparatus100may be used by other users such as hikers. The application may be accessed through the touchscreen input device106once paired. Once paired, the application from the smartphone may share content with the apparatus100for projecting illumination and/or sound. Further, the apparatus100may activate an emergency signal that could be triggered through the user interface shown, for example, inFIG.5A. Alternatively, the apparatus100may show a map with GPS coordinate showing positions of other hikers that are also using the smartphone application so that if the user may look for other when lost. Additionally, the application may access a social network for hikers that may allow communication with each other (e.g., via the user interface shown on the apparatus100or the smartphone).

As described above,FIG.6Ashows a perspective of the illumination apparatus100projecting a message based on a user input, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG.6Bshows a perspective view of the illumination apparatus100projecting messages based on changes in orientation or position of the apparatus100, according to aspects of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the apparatus100or200or system300may generate different messages when, for example, the orientation or position of apparatus100is changed while the light or illumination from the apparatus100is being generated. For example, the apparatus100may generate illumination606comprising a first message (or shape, image, etc.) in accordance with embodiments corresponding toFIGS.1A-7. The illumination606may be change to illumination608comprising a second message when the apparatus100changes its orientation or position, for example, as indicated by an arrow608shown inFIG.6B. Accordingly, the position and/or orientation of the apparatus may be tracked by one or more sensing device(s)316disclosed in the foregoing disclosure. For example, one or more sensors (e.g., accelerometer, gyroscope, inertial measuring unit (IMU), global positioning system (GPS)) may be utilized to determine a relative position (e.g., spatial) of the apparatus100or200(e.g., three coordinates) as well as a relative orientation of the apparatus100or200(e.g., three angles) with regard to the user. This tracking information may amount to 6 degrees of freedom for the apparatus100or200that may determine how the illumination may be generated.

In one embodiment, various functionalities and applications may be achieve by utilizing the tracking information of the apparatus100. For example, the illumination generated by the apparatus100may be projected to one or more real object to generate images that may function as merged or augmented reality objects. For example, in a dark room, the apparatus100may generate a first three-dimensional (3D) object via the illumination when the apparatus is pointed toward a first direction (e.g., left), and a second 3D object may be generated by the illumination when the apparatus is pointed toward a second direction (e.g., right). For example, the first 3D object may be a dinosaur, and the second 3D object may be a dog. The 3D objects generated by the illumination of the apparatus100may be programmed to be any desired object, character, animal, etc. Alternatively, when the apparatus100is pointed toward a first direction, the first 3D object may be generated by the illumination of the apparatus. However, when the apparatus100is pointed toward a second direct, the first 3D object may disappear. Accordingly, many variations of applications may be programmed and implemented by the apparatus100. In some embodiments, the apparatus100may function as an entertainment, gaming, advertising, or other suitable device. In one embodiment, the apparatus100may be utilized at a museum. For example, a user may enter a room in the museum with the apparatus100, and when the apparatus100is pointed toward a certain direction or at a certain position (e.g., on a wall), the illumination generated by the apparatus100may reveal object relevant for the theme of the room at the museum.

In another embodiment, the apparatus100may be programmed to turn on or off based on the orientation or position of the apparatus100. For example, if a user is in a room while holding the apparatus100, and the users points at a certain location with the apparatus100, the apparatus100may automatically turn on to illuminate an object in the direction the apparatus100may be pointing at. The object may be, for example, the head of a dinosaur. If the user turns the apparatus100in a different direction, the apparatus100may turn off the illumination. In some cases, each of multiple users may use the apparatus100simultaneously. Accordingly, the head of the dinosaur may be illuminated simultaneously by the multiple apparatuses100.

FIG.6Cillustrates a perspective of an exemplary illumination apparatus100generating messages based a user audio input, according to aspects of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, a user may speak into the microphone(s)118or308of the apparatus100to generate alarm or other sounds, as well as illumination, in accordance with embodiments corresponding toFIGS.1A-7. For example, when a user speaks a command702into the microphone(s)118or308, the apparatus100generates illumination704with a message or an image corresponding with the command702. Additionally or alternatively, the apparatus100may generate an audio output (e.g., alarm or other sounds)706corresponding with the command702. Accordingly, the illumination704and the audio output706may serve, for example, as visual and/or audio beacon to aid a responder or helper in finding the user.

In one embodiment, the voice command702may be detected when one or more switches108,109,110,112a, and112bof the apparatus100are actuated. Alternatively, the voice command702may be detected without actuation of the switches108,109,110,112a, and112b. That is, the apparatus100may be in a listening mode to listen for user commands during operation of the apparatus100. The voice detection feature of this embodiment may be helpful to operate the apparatus100when a user is unable to operate the apparatus100, for example, in an emergency situation where the apparatus100cannot be reached or the user is unable to move. In some embodiments, the voice detection feature implements voice recognition so that only the voice of one or more authorized users enables performing the voice commands. In other embodiments, the voice detection feature is configured to perform the voice commands only when certain words or phrases are spoken by the user (e.g., “flashlight project now”). In other embodiments, the voice detection feature is configured to detect the tone, volume, prosody or other voice characteristics of the voice of the user to determine whether the user is in distress and to activate one or more functions according to the current disclosure, such as a light or sound output, an emergency call or message transmission via a network by connecting to a smart device, and the like. In one embodiment, the voice command702may be translated using a natural language processor to perform voice to text, voice to illumination, or voice to audio output functions.

The applications and the functionalities disclosed in the foregoing and following embodiments may be achieved by programming the apparatus100or200or system300in accordance with the description provided in connection with, for example, the system300shown inFIG.3. That is, the apparatus100or200or system300in the foregoing and following embodiments may utilize, for example, a computer-readable media having stored thereon instructions configured to cause one or more computers or processors to perform any of the methods described herein. The functionality of computing devices described herein may be implemented in computing logic embodied in hardware or software instructions, which can be written in a programming language, such as C, C++, COBOL, JAVA™, PHP, Perl, Python, Ruby, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, VBScript, ASPX, Microsoft .NET™ languages such as C#, and/or the like. Computing logic may be compiled into executable programs or written in interpreted programming languages.

FIG.7illustrates a flowchart of an exemplary process700for executing functions of a multifunctional illumination based on the apparatus100or200or system300disclosed connection withFIGS.1A-6C, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

In one embodiment, the method may be executed by the apparatus100or200or system300. At step702, the controller304may receive a first input signal from a first button. For example, the first button may be at least one of the control buttons108,109,110,112a,112b,122a,122b,208,209,210,212a,212b,222a, or222b. At step704, upon receiving the first input signal, the controller304may generate a first illumination signal. At step706, a first illumination may be generated based on the first illumination signal. For example, the first illumination may be generated by at least one of the light emitting device104,114,116,204, the light source(s)310, or the illumination generation system400. At step708, the controller304may receive a second input signal from a second button. The second button may be at least one of the control buttons108,109,110,112a,112b,122a,122b,208,209,210,212a,212b,222a, or222b. At step710, upon receiving the second input signal, the controller304may generate a second illumination signal. At step712, a second illumination may be generated based on the second illumination signal. The second illumination may be generated by at least one of the light emitting device104,114,116,204, the light source(s)310, or the illumination generation system400. In one embodiment, the first illumination and the second illumination may comprise different or same illumination shape, pattern and/or size. In one embodiment, controller304may receive the second input signal for a first time period (e.g., 3 seconds), and upon receiving the second input signal for the first time period, one or more vibrations may be via a vibrating device. For example, the vibrating device may comprise the actuation device(s)314including integrated haptic or vibration generators to impart haptic signals or vibrations upon activation in connection with embodiments of the present disclosure. Further, upon receiving the second input signal for the first time period, the controller304may be configured to transmit a cellular or satellite call to a first number. The first number may be an emergency number (e.g., 911) or other emergency service or response entity. In one embodiment, after receiving the second input signal for the first time period, the controller304may receive an additional input signal from the second button for a second period of time (e.g., 3 to 5 seconds). Upon receiving the additional input signal for the second period of time, at least one of the speaker118,218, or312may generate an audio output. The audio output may be an alarm, siren, or other sounds.

Still referring toFIG.7, at step714, the controller304may receive a third input signal from a touch input device. For example, the touch input device may be the touchscreen input device106,206or an input device302. At step716, upon receiving the third input signal, a third illumination signal may be generated. At step716, a third illumination may be generated based on the third illumination signal. The third illumination may be generated by at least one of the light emitting device104,114,116,204, the light source(s)310, or the illumination generation system400. In one embodiment, the first illumination, the second illumination, and the third illumination may comprise different or same illumination shape, pattern and/or size.

In one embodiment, the controller304may receive a third input signal from a third button, and upon receiving the third input signal, the controller304activating the touch input device. In one embodiment, the controller304may determine a first orientation of the interactive illumination apparatus. The first orientation may be detected by a sensing device316(e.g., accelerometer or 6 degree of freedom sensor). Upon determining the first orientation, a fourth illumination may be generated based on a fourth illumination signal. Further, a second orientation of the interactive illumination apparatus may be determined by the controller304, and upon determining the second orientation, a fifth illumination may be generated based on a fifth illumination signal. In one embodiment, upon determining the second orientation, the controller304may turn off the fourth illumination. The fourth and fifth illuminations may be generated by at least one of the light emitting device104,114,116,204, the light source(s)310, or the illumination generation system400. In one embodiment, the first to fifth illuminations may comprise different or same illumination shape, pattern and/or size.

In one embodiment, the controller304may receive a fourth input signal from a fourth button. The fourth button may comprise at least one of the control buttons108,109,110,112a,112b,122a,122b,208,209,210,212a,212b,222a, or222b. Upon receiving the fourth input signal, intensity of the first illumination or a size of the first illumination may be modified based on the fourth input signal. That is the intensity and size of the first illumination may be increased or decreased.

It should be appreciated that in the above description of exemplary embodiments, various features of the embodiments are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that a claimed embodiment requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the Detailed Description are hereby expressly incorporated into this Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment.