Patent Publication Number: US-2012033416-A1

Title: Portable power module assembly

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/400,997, filed Aug. 6, 2010, which is incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The subject matter of the present disclosure is related generally to portable power consumption devices, and more particularly to a portable power consumption device with a plurality of interconnected modules. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Conventional portable power consumption devices, such as flashlights, GPS tracking units, cameras, emergency beacons, etc., are commonly used in the art for a variety of purposes. Typically, such portable power consumption devices include a power source, electronics that operate on power from the power source, and a switch that controls power to the electronics. Generally, the relative orientation, order, and function of the components of a conventional portable power consumption device are fixed. In other words, once initially configured, known devices are not functionally flexible and easily modifiable. For example, the electrical couplings between the components of known devices are hardwired together making disconnection of the components extremely difficult, if not impossible without permanently damaging or altering the couplings. Accordingly, known devices are not designed to be adaptable or reconfigurable for different applications, needs, or preferences. 
     Some portable power consumption devices specifically configured for use as a flashlight for emitting light across the visible and non-visible light spectrum fail to adequately provide a non-visible light beam profile that is wide enough for certain environments. Also, certain portable power consumption devices fail to provide adjustability over a broad enough focal range to meet all or most of the requirements associated with certain types of applications. 
     Additionally, certain known power consumption devices designed for attachment to another object, such as a firearm, are not amenable for attachment to both left-handed and right-handed firearm use. For example, some devices intended for use in a specific orientation are undesirably reoriented when using the device for left-handed operation. Additionally, many firearms, specifically those used by military personnel, have multiple attachment points that introduce orientation difficulties for power consumption devices when the devices have fixed attachment mechanisms. 
     Some prior art flashlight and lantern devices have attempted to promote flexibility and modularity. For example, some devices include a secondary flashlight that is attachable to a primary flashlight. The secondary flashlight may utilize the power supply from the primary flashlight, but there is no additional interface or interaction between the secondary and primary flashlight. 
     Other prior art devices have attempted to provide multiple sub-devices attached to each other in a stacked arrangement. The sub-devices each are fully operable discrete devices that may utilize a common power supply incorporated into a single sub-device. Other than the common power supply, the stacked discrete sub-devices do not share other electronics, interfaces, or communication channels. The stackable nature of the prior art sub-devices is simply an attempt to provide a convenient method of co-locating and recharging multiple sub-devices. 
     SUMMARY 
     The subject matter of the present application has been developed in response to the present state of the art, and in particular, in response to the problems and needs in the art that have not yet been fully solved by currently available portable power consumption devices. Accordingly, the subject matter of the present application has been developed to provide a portable power module assembly that overcomes at least some shortcomings of the prior art devices. For example, described herein is one embodiment of a portable power module assembly with a power module, power consumption module, and power control module that are removably interconnected and interchangeable to accommodate various applications, needs, and preferences. Because each module includes matching mechanical and electrical interface points, including electrical leads extending along the entire length of the power module, the modules can be easily reordered relative to each other, replaced with different modules, or supplemented with additional modules. 
     In certain implementations, the power consumption module is a light-emitting module with two optically-modified narrow profile non-visible light LEDs and an unmodified wide profile non-visible light LED. According to some implementations, the portable power module assembly includes a housing relative to which a power source, the power consumption module, and power control module are rotatable. The relative rotation of the power source, modules, and housing, allow the orientation of the modules to be adjusted to achieve similar results when the housing is in multiple orientations. 
     Unlike prior art devices, the portable power module assembly of the present application is configured to facilitate the reconfiguration of the modules of the assembly for different applications, needs, or preferences. 
     According to one embodiment, an apparatus includes a power module that includes a power source. The apparatus also includes a power consumption module that is configured to consume power from the power source. Further, the apparatus includes a power control module that is configured to selectively regulate power from the power source to the power consumption module. Each of the power module, power consumption module, and power control module includes a positive power terminal, a negative power terminal, and at least one neutral terminal. The power module, power consumption module, and power control module each is removably interconnected adjacently to at least another of the power module, power consumption module, and power control module via engagement between the positive power terminals of the at least one adjacent module, the negative power terminals of the at least one adjacent module, and the neutral terminals of the at least one adjacent module. The positive power terminals of the power module, power consumption module, and power control module are electrically coupleable to each other via the engagement between the positive power terminals of adjacent modules. Further, the negative power terminals of the power module, power consumption module, and power control module are electrically coupleable to each other via the engagement between the positive power terminals of adjacent modules. Also, the neutral terminals of the power module, power consumption module, and power control module are electrically coupleable to each other via the engagement between the neutral power terminals of adjacent modules. 
     In certain implementations of the apparatus, the power control module selectively regulates power from the power source to the power consumption module via communication through the neutral terminals of at least the power consumption module and the power control module. The power module can be positionable between and removably interconnected adjacently to the power consumption module and the power control module. Also, the power control module can be positionable between and removably interconnected adjacently to the power module and power consumption module. The control module may include a switch that is selectively actuatable between at least two positions associated with at least two power regulating modes. 
     According to some implementations of the apparatus, the power consumption module includes a light emitting element. 
     In yet certain implementations of the apparatus, the power consumption module is a first power consumption module. The apparatus can further include a second power consumption module that is removably interconnected adjacently to at least one of the power module, first power consumption module, and power control module in any of a plurality of sequences. The first power consumption module can be interchangeable with the second power consumption module. 
     In some implementations of the apparatus, the power control module is a first power control module. The apparatus can further include a second power control module configured to regulate power from the power source to the first power control module. The second power control module can be removably interconnected adjacently to at least one of the power module, first power consumption module, and power control module in any of a plurality of sequences. The second power control module may include a power interrupter portion and a switch portion. The power interrupter portion can include the positive power terminal, negative power terminal, and at least one neutral terminal of the second power control module. The switch portion can be operable to control operation of the power interrupter portion and is positionable remotely relative to the power interrupter portion. In certain implementations, the first and second power control modules are interchangeable with each other. 
     In some implementations, the first power control module can be operable to control power in one of at most a first number of modes and the second power control module that is interchangeable with the first power control module can be operable to control power in a second number of modes greater than the first number. In one implementation, the first power control module can be operable to control power in one of at most three modes, and the second power control module that is interchangeable with the first power control module can be operable to control power in at least four modes. Alternatively, in another implementation, the first power control module can be operable to control power in one of at most two modes, and the second power control module that is interchangeable with the first power control module can be operable to control power in at least three modes. 
     In one implementation, the power module is a first power module, and the apparatus further includes a second power module removably interconnected adjacently to the first power module. The power module, power consumption module, and control module can each be defined about a central axis, and the central axes of the power module, power consumption module, and control module can be coaxially alignable. 
     According to some implementations of the apparatus, the engaged positive power terminals, negative power terminals, and neutral power terminals of adjacent modules include respective first and second positive power terminals, first and second negative power terminals, and first and second neutral terminals. The first terminals each include one of a male terminal and female terminal, and the second terminals each include the other of the male terminal and female terminals. The male terminals each include a non-electrical projection and an electrical recess positioned within the projection. The female terminals each include a non-electrical recess and an electrical projection positioned within the recess. Engagement between male and female terminals comprises corresponding mating engagement of the non-electrical projection with the non-electrical recess and mating engagement of the electrical projection with the electrical recess. 
     In yet some implementations of apparatus, the positive power terminals of the power module, power consumption module, and power control module are coaxially alignable, the negative power terminals of the power module, power consumption module, and power control module are coaxially alignable, and the neutral terminals of the power module, power consumption module, and power control module are coaxially alignable. At least one of the positive power terminals, negative power terminals, and neutral terminals of the respective power module, power consumption module, and power control module can be shaped differently than the others of the positive power terminals, negative power terminals, and neutral terminals of the respective power module, power consumption module, and power control module. Engagement between the differently-shaped terminals ensures relative coaxial alignment of the positive power terminals, negative power terminals, and neutral terminals. 
     In some implementations of the apparatus, the power module, power consumption module, and power control module are removably interconnected adjacently to at least another of the power module, power consumption module, and power control module in any of a plurality of sequences. The power module, power consumption module, and control module can be substantially cylindrically shaped and stackable in an end-to-end configuration. The positive power terminals, negative power terminals, and neutral terminals can be formed in the ends of the modules. 
     According to yet some implementations, the power module includes a housing within which the power source is positioned. When removably interconnected, the power source, power consumption module, and power control module are co-rotatable relative to the housing of the power module. The apparatus may further include at least two locking mechanisms each configured to selectively lock in place the rotational orientation of the power module, power consumption module, and power control module relative to the housing of the power module. The at least two locking mechanisms may each include a lock ring and a corresponding lock ring engagement feature. The housing of the power module can be symmetrical. 
     According to some implementations, the power module, power consumption module, and power control module are removably interconnected via respective couplings each including a plurality of interlocking projections and recesses. The housing may have a first length between first and second ends of the housing. The power source can have a second length with the second length being longer than the first length such that respective portions of the power source extend outwardly beyond the first and second ends of the housing 
     In yet some implementations, each of the power module, power consumption module, and power control module includes at least one connection element separate and distinct from the positive power terminal, negative power terminal, and at least one neutral terminal. Each of the power module, power consumption module, and power control module being removably and securely interconnected adjacently to at least another of the power module, power consumption module, and power control module via engagement between respective connection elements. At least one connection element may include one of a lock ring and lock ring engagement feature such that engagement between respective connection elements comprises engagement between a respective lock ring and lock ring engagement feature. The power module may include a housing within which the power source is positioned, the housing extends between a first end and a second end. The first end of the housing includes a first lock ring engagement feature and the second end includes a second lock ring engagement feature. The power consumption module includes a first lock ring and the power control module includes a second lock ring. The first lock ring is engageable with the first lock ring engagement feature to removably and securely interconnect the power module and the power consumption module, and the second lock ring is engageable with the second lock ring engagement feature to removably and securely interconnect the power module and the power control module. 
     According to another embodiment, an apparatus for powering a power consumption device includes at least one set of a plurality of battery cells positioned adjacent and parallel to each other. The at least one set of a plurality of battery cells includes a first end and second end opposing the first end with each battery cell including a positive terminal and a negative terminal. The apparatus includes a first end cap positioned at the first end of the at least one set of a plurality of battery cells, and a second end cap positioned at the second end of the at least one set of a plurality of battery cells. The apparatus further includes a plurality of tie rod terminals secured to and extending between the first end cap and the second end cap. The plurality of tie rod terminals are tightenable (e.g., via threaded, soldered, welded, or other mechanical adjoining techniques) to draw the first and second end caps together and secure the at least one set of a plurality of battery cells between the first and second end caps. A first of the plurality of tie rod terminals is electrically coupled to the positive terminals of the battery cells, a second of the plurality of tie rod terminals is electrically coupled to the negative terminals of the battery cells, and a third of the plurality of tie rod terminals is electrically neutral. 
     In some implementations, the first end cap includes a plurality of recesses. A first end portion of each of the plurality of tie rod terminals secured to the first end cap can extend into a respective recess of the first end cap. The first end portions can be configured to receive female electrical terminals. The second end cap includes a plurality of projections. A second end portion of each of the plurality of tie rod terminals secured to the second end cap can extend through a respective projection of the first end cap. The second end portions can be configured to receive male electrical terminals. At least one of the plurality of recesses and projections has a first cross-sectional shape, and at least another of the plurality of recesses and projections has a second cross-sectional shape different that the first cross-sectional shape. A respective one of the plurality of tie rods extends between the at least one of the plurality of recesses and projections with the first cross-sectional shape, and a respective one of the plurality of tie rods extends between the at least one of the plurality of recesses and projections with the second cross-sectional shape. 
     According to certain implementations the at least one set of a plurality of battery cells includes an interior space defined between the plurality of battery cells and a plurality of exterior spaces each defined between respective adjacent battery cells of the plurality of battery cells. The first of the plurality of tie rod terminals extends through the interior space, the second of the plurality of tie rod terminals extends through a respective one of the plurality of exterior spaces, and the third of the plurality of tie rod terminals extends through another respective one of the plurality of exterior spaces. 
     In yet some implementations, the first and second end caps each have a substantially circular outer periphery of equal dimensions. At least one set of a plurality of battery cells and plurality of tie rod terminals are confined within the substantially circular outer peripheries of the first and second caps. At least one set of a plurality of battery cells includes at least a first and second set of a plurality of battery cells each having a first end and a second end. The apparatus may further include a spacer plate positioned between the first and second set of a plurality of battery cells. The plurality of tie rod terminals extends through the spacer plate. The first and second end caps each comprises a plurality of battery spacing tabs configured to engage the plurality of battery cells and maintain the battery cells in a fixed position relative to the first and second end caps. 
     According to some implementations, the apparatus further includes a housing defining an interior channel within which the at least one set of a plurality of battery cells is positionable. The housing is configured to be secured to the power consumption device and a diameter of the interior channel is approximately equal to a diameter of the first and second end caps. The diameter of the interior channel can be approximately equal to a maximum distance between the outermost peripheries of the plurality of battery cells. 
     In yet another embodiment, an apparatus for emitting light includes a portable power source and a light emitting module communicable in power receiving communication with the portable power source. The light emitting module includes a first light emitting diode (LED), a second LED, and a third LED. The first LED includes a first optic lens for producing a first modified light beam, the second LED includes a second optic lens for producing a second modified light beam narrower than the first modified light beam, and the third LED is without an optic lens and produces an unmodified light beam wider than the first modified light beam. The first, second, and third LEDs may each be a non-visible light LED. The mounting plane of the third LED can be elevated relative to the mounting planes of the first and second LEDs. 
     Reference throughout this specification to features, advantages, or similar language does not imply that all of the features and advantages that may be realized with the subject matter of the present disclosure should be or are in any single embodiment. Rather, language referring to the features and advantages is understood to mean that a specific feature, advantage, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Thus, discussion of the features and advantages, and similar language, throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, refer to the same embodiment. 
     The described features, structures, advantages, and/or characteristics of the subject matter of the present disclosure may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments and/or implementations. In the following description, numerous specific details are provided to impart a thorough understanding of embodiments of the subject matter of the present disclosure. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the subject matter of the present disclosure may be practiced without one or more of the specific features, details, components, materials, and/or methods of a particular embodiment or implementation. In other instances, additional features and advantages may be recognized in certain embodiments and/or implementations that may not be present in all embodiments or implementations. Further, in some instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the subject matter of the present disclosure. The features and advantages of the subject matter of the present disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the subject matter as set forth hereinafter. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       In order that the advantages of the subject matter may be more readily understood, a more particular description of the subject matter briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments that are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the subject matter and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the subject matter will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the drawings, in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a frontal perspective view of a portable power module assembly according to one embodiment; 
         FIG. 2  is a rearward perspective view of the portable power module assembly of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is a side elevation view of the portable power module assembly of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 4  is an exploded side elevation view of the portable power module assembly of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 5  is a perspective view of a battery pack of a power module showing a female interface according to one embodiment; 
         FIG. 6  is a perspective view of the battery pack of a power module shown in  FIG. 5 , but showing a male interface; 
         FIG. 7  is a front view of the female interface of the battery pack of  FIG. 5 ; 
         FIG. 8  is a cross-sectional side view of the battery pack of  FIG. 7  taken along the line  8 - 8  of  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 9  is a cross-sectional end view of the battery pack and housing of the power module shown in  FIG. 4  taken along the line  9 - 9  of  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of a power consumption module showing a female interface according to one embodiment; 
         FIG. 11  is a front view of a portable power module assembly according to one embodiment; 
         FIG. 12  is a cross-sectional side view of the portable power module assembly of  FIG. 11  taken along the line  12 - 12  of  FIG. 11 ; 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective view of a power consumption module without a protective lens cap according to one embodiment; 
         FIG. 14  is a perspective view of a power control module showing a male interface according to one embodiment; 
         FIG. 15  is a schematic illustration of a portable power module assembly according to a first embodiment; 
         FIG. 16  is a schematic illustration of a portable power module assembly according to a second embodiment; 
         FIG. 17  is a schematic illustration of a portable power module assembly according to a third embodiment; 
         FIG. 18  is a schematic illustration of a portable power module assembly according to a fourth embodiment; 
         FIG. 19  is a schematic illustration of a portable power module assembly according to a fifth embodiment; 
         FIG. 20  is a schematic illustration of a portable power module assembly according to a sixth embodiment; and 
         FIG. 21  is a schematic illustration of a portable power module assembly according to a seventh embodiment. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the subject matter of the present disclosure. Appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment,” “in an embodiment,” and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment. Similarly, the use of the term “implementation” means an implementation having a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with one or more embodiments of the subject matter of the present disclosure, however, absent an express correlation to indicate otherwise, an implementation may be associated with one or more embodiments. 
       FIGS. 1 and 2  depicts one embodiment of a portable power module assembly  10  that includes a power module  20 , power consumption module  30 , and power control module  40 . Each module  20 ,  30 ,  40  is an independent self-contained unit with a well-defined interface that is removably interconnectable to the other modules. Accordingly, the modules  20 ,  30 ,  40  are easily disconnectable from and reconnectable to each other without permanent or semi-permanent deformation or alteration of the components of the modules. 
     The power module  20  includes a housing  22  that houses a power source. The housing  22  is a generally cylindrically-shaped tubular element defining a hollow interior channel  23  (see  FIG. 9 ). The exterior surface of the housing  22  may include grip-enhancing features, such as a series of alternating planar surfaces  26  and raised textured surfaces  28 . The housing  22  can be made from any of various substantially rigid materials, such as, for example, metals, metal alloys, hard plastics, composites, and the like. In certain applications where attachment of the portable power module assembly  10  to ancillary objects, such as firearms, helmets, vehicles, cameras, etc., is desirable, one or more attachment mechanisms  24  can be permanently or removably secured to the housing  22 . Such attachment mechanisms  24  may include quick-release components to enable quick and secure attachment of the assembly  10  to and quick removal of the assembly from an ancillary object. 
     The power consumption module  30  is removably interconnected to the power module  20  in power receiving communication with the power source housed by the housing  22 . Generally, the power consumption module  30  includes a housing  34  within which any of various electrically-powered devices is housed. The type of electrically-powered device housed by the housing  34  is selectable according to the particular application or applications for which the portable power module assembly  10  will be used. Accordingly, the power consumption module  30  can include light-emitting devices for illumination applications, GPS devices for geographical tracking applications, beacon signal devices for life-saving applications, sensor devices for chemical composition detection applications, as well as any other devices associated with a desirable application as will be discussed on more detail below. As an example only, the power consumption module  30  in the illustrated embodiments is an illumination module with light-emitting devices. Accordingly, the power consumption module  30  includes a protective, and optionally translucent, lens cap  32  that is removably securable to the housing  34  to protect the devices housed within the housing. 
     The power control module  40  also is removably interconnected to the power module  20 , but in power regulating communication with the power consumption module  30  to control the flow of power from the power module  20  to the power consumption module. Like the power consumption module  30 , the power control module  40  includes a housing  41  within which power regulating components are housed. Generally, the power regulating components include electrical switches and/or circuitry communicable in electric communication with the electrically-powered devices of the power consumption module  30 . 
     The power control module  40  includes at least one mechanical actuator  42  coupled with the electrical switches and/or circuitry within the housing  41 . The mechanical actuator  42  is selectively actuatable to activate or deactivate the electrical switches and/or circuitry (e.g., closing and opening electrical loops) for providing and regulating power to the power consumption module  30 . In certain implementations, the power regulating components of the power control module  40  are configured to facilitate a two-mode operation (e.g., ON and OFF modes) of the power consumption module  30 . In such implementations, the mechanical actuator  42  is movable between at least two positions to switch operation of the power consumption module  30  between the two modes. According to some other implementations, the power regulating components of the power control module  30  are configured to facilitate three or more modes of operation (e.g., OFF and multiple ON modes) of the power consumption module  30 . The multiple ON modes may include activation of different devices (e.g., multiple light emitting diodes (LED)) or adjusting the power to a single device (e.g., increasing or decreasing the intensity of a light beam emitted from an LED). The mechanical actuator  42  can be a rotatable switch as illustrated, a slidable switch, a depressible button, or other similar mechanical actuator that is capable of toggling between two or more positions or facilitating toggling between multiple power control circuits. 
     In some embodiments, the power control module  40  includes at least one of a battery recharge port  42  and auxiliary device port  44 . The battery recharge port  42  is configured to receive a battery recharge source, such as a wall-mounted AC adapter plug, for recharging the power source of the power module  40 . The auxiliary device port  44  is configured to receive a connection from an auxiliary device for powering the auxiliary device with power provided by the power module  20 . Although the power control module  40  is shown having two external ports, in other embodiments, the power control module can have fewer or more than two external ports. Further, alternatively, or additionally, the power module  20  and/or power consumption module  30  can include external ports. 
     Referring to  FIG. 3 , the power module  20 , power consumption module  30 , and power control module  40  can be axially aligned in an end-to-end configuration. As shown, the power module  20  is positioned between and removably connected to both the power consumption and power control modules  30 ,  40 . However, in other embodiments, as will be described later, the position or order of the modules  20 ,  30 ,  40  relative to each other can be different. The modules  20 ,  30 ,  40  adjacent each other are removably interconnected together via two distinct and independent connections. The first connections are a purely mechanical connection and the second connections are a combination mechanical/electrical connection. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 1-4 , the power module  20  is interconnected with the power consumption module  30  via a first purely mechanical connection  50 A and with the power control module  40  via a first purely mechanical connection  50 B. The first purely mechanical connections  50 A,  50 B include external threads  52 A,  52 B formed in the external surface of the housing  22  at respective end portions  27 ,  29  of the housing. Further, the purely mechanical connections  50 A,  50 B include corresponding internally-threaded lock rings  54 A,  54 B rotatably secured to the power consumption module  30  and power control module  40 , respectively. The first purely mechanical connections  50 A,  50 B are formed by threadably engaging the internal threads of the lock rings  54 A,  54 B with the external threads  52 A,  52 B of the housing  22 . As the lock rings  54 A,  54 B are tightened relative to the external threads  52 A,  52 B, the ends of the module housings  34 ,  41  are pressed against the end portions  27 ,  29  of the power module housing  22  to form a seal between the housings. 
     In certain implementations, each end of the power consumption and control module housings  34 ,  41  includes a groove configured to receive a sealing element  141 , such as a gasket or O-ring. The sealing element deforms under pressure from respective end portions  27 ,  29  of the housing  22  as the first mechanical connections  50 A,  50 B are tightened to create a more robust seal between the modules. Although in the illustrated embodiments, the lock rings  54 A,  54 B are rotatably coupled to the power consumption and control modules  30 ,  40 , and the external threads  52 A,  52 B are formed in the power module housing  20 , in other embodiments, the components of the first mechanical connections  50 A,  50 B can be reversed. In other words, in some embodiments, the lock rings  54 A,  54 B can be rotatably coupled to the power module housing  20 , and the external threads  52 A,  52 B can be formed in the power consumption and control modules  30 ,  40 . 
     In the illustrated embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 4 , the housing  22  is symmetrical to facilitate attachment of the power consumption and control modules  30 ,  40  to either of the end portions  27 ,  29 . Such a configuration promotes ease of assembly. Additionally, the symmetrical configuration of the housing  22  allows the housing to simply be flipped when a reverse orientation of an attachment mechanism (e.g., attachment mechanism  24 ) is desired, such as when the assembly  10  is detached from a firearm for right-handed use and attached to the same or another firearm for left-handed use. 
     Additionally, as described above, the power module  20  is interconnected with the power consumption module  30  via a second combination mechanical/electrical connection  60  and with the power control module  40  via a second combination mechanical/electrical connection  62 . Generally, each mechanical/electrical connection  60 ,  62  includes mating engagement between a male interface and a female interface. The male interface includes a plurality of male terminals each having an electrically non-conductive projection formed about an electrically conductive recess. The female interface includes a corresponding plurality of female terminals each having an electrically conductive projection extending into an electrically non-conductive recess. Each mechanical/electrical connection  60 ,  62  is formed when the electrically non-conductive projections of the male interface are nestably engaged with corresponding electrically non-conductive recesses of the female interface, and the electrically conductive projections of the female interface are inserted into the electrically conductive recesses of the male interface. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 5-9 , and representative of the male and female interfaces of the power consumption and control modules, the power source or battery pack  100  of the power module  20  includes a male interface  61 A and a female interface  63 A. As shown in  FIG. 5 , the female interface  63 A includes a first end cap  64  with a plurality of female terminals  70 A,  72 A,  74 A,  76 A. The female terminals  70 A,  72 A,  74 A,  76 A each include a respective recess  80 A,  82 A,  84 A,  86 A formed in an outwardly facing surface  67  of the end cap  64 . The recesses are positioned about the surface  67  of the cap  64  in an arrangement corresponding with the configuration of battery cells  104  and tie rods  110 ,  112 ,  114 ,  116  as will be described below in more detail. At least one of the recesses has a cross-sectional shape different than the other recesses such that the differently shaped recess or recesses acts as an alignment or keyed feature to ensure proper alignment of the battery pack  100  relative to the power control module  40 . In the illustrated embodiment, the recesses  80 A have a circular cross-sectional shape, the recesses  82 A,  86 A have a first non-round cross-sectional shape, and the recess  84 A has a second non-round cross-sectional shape different than the first. Although in the illustrated embodiment, the female interface  63 A includes two circular recesses, two non-circular recesses of a first shape, and one non-circular recess of a second shape, in other embodiments, the female interface can have any number of circular and/or non-circular recesses as long as at least one recess has a cross-sectional shape different than another recess. 
     The cap  64  is made from a non-conductive material, such as a plastic. Accordingly, the walls of the recesses  80 A,  82 A,  84 A,  86 A, which are formed in the cap  64 , also are made from a non-conductive material. Each female terminal  70 A,  72 A,  74 A,  76 A also includes a conductive projection or pin  90 A,  92 A,  94 A,  96 A extending outwardly into the associated recess from a bottom surface of the recess. The projections  90 A,  92 A,  94 A,  96 A form a first tip or end of a respective tie-rod  110 ,  112 ,  114 ,  116  extending the length of the battery pack to the male interface  61 A (see, e.g.,  FIG. 5 ). As will be explained in more detail below, the second or opposing tip or end of the tie-rods  110 ,  112 ,  114 ,  116  (e.g., conductive recess  140 A) is coupled with and extends into a respective projection of the male interface  61 A. 
     Referring to  FIG. 6 , the male interface  61 A includes a second end cap  69  with a plurality of male terminals  120 A,  122 A,  124 A,  126 A corresponding to the number of female terminals  70 A,  72 A,  74 A,  76 A of the female interface  63 A. The male terminals  120 A,  122 A,  124 A,  126 A each include a respective projection  130 A,  132 A,  134 A,  136 A extending from an outwardly facing surface  71  of the end cap  69 . Like the recesses, at least one of the projections  130 A,  132 A,  134 A,  136 A has a cross-sectional shape different than the other projections such that the differently shaped projection or projections acts as an alignment or keyed feature to ensure proper alignment of the battery pack  100  relative to the power consumption module  30 . The cross-sectional shapes of the projections  130 A,  132 A,  134 A,  136 A correspond with the cross-sectional shapes of the recesses  80 A,  82 A,  84 A,  86 A, respectively. Additionally, the projections  130 A,  132 A,  134 A,  136 A are positioned about the surface  71  of the cap  69  in the same arrangement as the recesses  80 A,  82 A,  84 A,  86 A on the end cap  64  such that each projection is axially alignable with a matching one of the recesses having the same cross-sectional shape. 
     Each tie-rod (see, e.g., tie-rods  110 ,  112 ,  114 ,  116 ,  118  of  FIGS. 5 and 6 ) extends axially along the battery pack  100  between respective axially aligned recesses and projections of the same shape and position such that the female terminals  70 A  72 A  74 A,  76 A are electrically coupled to respective male terminals  120 A,  122 A,  124 A,  126 A via a respective one of the tie-rods  110 ,  112 ,  114 ,  116 ,  118 . Although in the illustrated embodiment, the battery pack  100  includes five female and male terminal sets including one positive terminal set, one negative terminal set, and three neutral terminal sets, in other embodiments, the battery pack can have fewer or more than five female and male terminal sets. For example, in one embodiment, the battery pack includes three female and male terminal sets including one positive terminal set, one negative terminal set, and one neutral terminal set. According to another example, in one embodiment, the battery pack includes two positive terminal sets, two negative terminal sets, and at least one neutral terminal set. 
     The tie-rods of the battery pack  100  are efficiently positioned within spaces defined between the battery cells  104 . In the illustrated embodiments, the battery pack  100  includes sets  102  of four battery cells  104  such that the battery cells define four outer interstitial spaces  200  and one inner interstitial space  202 . Each outer interstitial space  200  is defined between the outward-facing surfaces of adjacent battery cells  104  and an outer periphery of the end caps  64 ,  69  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 9 ). In this manner, the entirety of the battery cells  104  and tie-rods remains within the confines of the outer periphery of the end caps  64 ,  69 . The inner interstitial space  202  is defined between the inward-facing surfaces of all four of the battery cells  104 . As shown, each of the tie-rods  110 ,  112 ,  114 ,  116  is positioned within and extends along a respective one of the outer interstitial spaces  200  and the tie-rod  118  is positioned within and extends along the inner interstitial space  202 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 9 , the end caps  64 ,  69 , and spacer  150 , each define a circular outer periphery having a diameter just smaller than the inner diameter of the power module housing  22 . With the battery pack  100  configured in this manner, the battery pack is substantially supported within the housing  22 , but is allowed to rotate freely relative to the housing. 
     Although the battery pack  100  of the illustrated embodiment includes sets  102  of four battery cells  104 , four outer interstitial spaces  200 , and one inner interstitial space  202 , in other embodiments, the battery pack can include fewer or more than four battery cells to a set, fewer or more than four outer interstitial spaces, and fewer or more than one inner interstitial space. For example, in one embodiment, the battery pack may include one or more sets of three battery cells with one inner interstitial space and three outer interstitial spaces. In such an embodiment, multiple tie-rods can be positioned within and extend along a single outer interstitial space. According to another example, in one embodiment, the battery pack may include one or more sets of five or more battery cells with a plurality of outer battery cells positioned about (e.g., encircling) a single battery cell. In such implementations, the battery pack includes four or more outer interstitial spaces and no inner interstitial spaces. 
     One of the end caps (e.g., end cap  64 ) includes electrical circuitry (not shown) such as is commonly known in the art to electrically couple the positive terminals of all the battery cells  104  to one of the female and male terminals of a matching pair of terminals (e.g., the female terminal  72 A of the matching pair of female and male terminals  72 A,  140 A). The other of the female and male terminals (e.g., the male terminal  72 A) is then electrically coupled to the positive terminals of all the battery cells via the tie-rod extending between the female and male terminals (e.g., tie-rod  118 ). In this manner, the tie-rod (e.g., tie-rod  118 ) extending between the positive female and male terminals (e.g., female and male terminals  74 A,  140 A) acts as a positive pass-through terminal for providing a positive power connection to both ends of the battery pack  100 . 
     Similarly, the other of the end caps (e.g., end cap  69 ) includes electrical circuitry (not shown) such as is commonly known in the art to electrically couple the negative terminals of all the battery cells  104  to one of the female and male terminals of another matching pair of terminals (e.g., the male terminal  124 A of the matching pair of female and male terminals  74 A,  124 A). The other of the female and male terminals (e.g., the female terminal  124 A) is then electrically coupled to the negative terminals of all the battery cells via the tie-rod extending between the negative male and female terminals (e.g., tie-rod  114 ). In this manner, the tie-rod (e.g., tie-rod  114 ) extending between the negative female and male terminals (e.g., negative female and male terminals  74 A,  124 A) acts as a negative pass-through terminal for providing a negative power connection to both ends of the battery pack  100 . 
     The remaining matching pairs of female and male terminals (e.g., first pair of female and male terminals  70 A,  120 A, second pair of female and male terminals  70 A,  120 A, and female and male terminals  76 A,  126 A) are selectively electrically coupleable to the positive female and male terminals to form neutral terminal pairs. However, each remaining pair of neutral terminals is electrically coupled to each other via a respective one of the tie-rods. For example, the first and second pair of female and male terminals  70 A,  120 A are electrically coupled to a respective one of the tie-rods  110 , and the female and male terminals  76 A,  126 A are electrically coupled to tie-rod  116 . In this manner, each tie-rod (e.g., tie-rods  110 ,  116 ) that extends between respective electrically neutral female and male terminal pairs acts as a neutral pass-through terminal for bypassing the battery cells  102  and providing a neutral power connection for communication of control signals between modules coupled to opposing ends of the power module (e.g., the power consumption module  30  and the power control module  40 ). 
     In addition to facilitating electrical coupling between male and female terminals, the tie-rods are configured to secure the end caps  64 ,  69  and battery cells  104  together into a compact assembly. Generally, the tie-rods are tightenable to draw the end caps  64 ,  69  together to apply a compressive force against the battery cells  104  and effectively sandwich the battery cells between the end caps. Referring to  FIG. 7 , the tie-rod  110 , being representative of the tie-rods  112 ,  114 ,  116 , includes an elongate shaft  160  with external threads  162 ,  163  on respective end portions of the shaft. The external threads  162 ,  163  are configured to threadably engage internal threads of respective shaft couplings  164 ,  166 . Moreover, the engaged threads  162 ,  164  are reversed relative to the engaged threads  163 ,  166  such that when the shaft  160  is rotated in a tightening direction, both the couplings  164 ,  166  travel axially along the shaft toward each other. The middle or internal tie rod  118  also includes a shaft and shaft couplings. However, in certain implementations, the shaft couplings are permanently fixed to the shafts via soldering, crimping, welding, or other fixation technique. Or alternatively, the couplings are co-formed or co-molded with the shaft to form a one-piece monolithic construction. 
     During assembly of the battery pack  100 , the shaft couplings  164 ,  166  are inserted through holes formed in the respective female interface recesses and male interface projections. The shaft couplings  164 ,  166  are then threadably engaged with the shaft  160  and the shaft is rotated in a tightening direction. The shaft coupling  164  includes a stop  168  larger than the opening in the female interface recess, and the portion  170  of the coupling  166  defining the conducting recess  140 A has a larger diameter than the opening in the male interface projection. Accordingly, as the shaft  160  is rotated and the couplings  164 ,  166  are drawn toward each other, the stop  168  and portion  170  contact the openings in the respective recess and projection to prevent further movement of the couplings relative to the end caps  64 ,  69 . Further tightening of the shaft  160  causes the end caps  64 ,  69  to draw toward each other and compress against the battery cells  104  for securing the end caps against the battery cells. The middle tie-rod  118  is held in place by the end caps  64 ,  69  (e.g., engagement between the couplings of the middle tie-rod  118  and the openings in the middle recess and projection in the respective end caps). 
     To maintain the spatial relationship of the battery cells  104  relative each other, each end cap  64 ,  69  includes a plurality of tabs  65 ,  66 , respectively. Each tab  65 ,  66  includes two adjacent and inwardly-facing surfaces  180 ,  182  each having a profile matching an exterior surface of a battery cell  104 . With the end caps  64 ,  69  tightened against the battery cells  104 , one of the surfaces  180 ,  182  of adjacent tabs  65 ,  66  matingly engage the exterior surface of a respective battery cell  104  to maintain the radial or lateral position of the battery cell. Generally, each battery cell  104  includes exposed positive and negative power terminals on opposing ends. However, in some embodiments, other types of battery cells can be used, such as battery cells with positive and negative power terminals on the same end. 
     In some embodiments, such as in the illustrated embodiments, the battery pack  100  includes two sets  102  of a plurality of battery cells  104 . The two sets  102  are configured in an end-to-end configuration (e.g., in series). For stabilization of the battery pack  100  (e.g., to maintain axial alignment of the battery sets  102  relative to each other), the battery pack includes a spacer plate  150  positioned between the battery sets  102  Like the end caps  64 ,  69 , the spacer plate  150  is made from a non-conductive material and includes a plurality of tabs  154  configured similarly to the tabs  65 ,  66  to matingly engage the exterior surfaces of the battery cells  104  at end portions opposing the respective end portions engaged with the tabs  65 ,  66 . In this manner, each end of each battery cell  104  of a set is secured by either the tabs  65 ,  154  or the tabs  66 ,  154 . The tabs  154  include openings  157  that allow the tie-rods to extend through the tabs. The spacer plate  150  facilitates electrical coupling between the two sets of battery cells  104 . In one embodiment, the spacer plate  150  includes openings  155  to accommodate direct contact between positive and negative power terminals of axially aligned battery cells  104 . In other embodiments, the spacer plate  150  includes circuitry to electrically couple the positive and negative power terminals of axially aligned battery cells. 
     Although the battery pack  100  of the power module  20  is shown as a rechargeable multi-cell battery pack, in other embodiments, the power source of the power module can be one or more of, for example, a non-rechargeable (e.g., disposable) multi-cell battery pack, single-cell battery pack, capacitor storage device, fuel cell storage device, AC adapter, solar power device, and other similar devices. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 10-13 , the power consumption module  30  is an illumination module with a plurality of illumination elements. The power consumption module  30  includes a female interface  63 B configured to matingly engage the male interface  61 A of the battery pack  100 . Generally, the female interface  63 B of the power consumption module  30  is configured in the same manner as the female interface  63 A of the battery pack  100 . More specifically, the female interface  63 B of the power consumption module  30  includes a plurality of female terminals  70 B,  72 B,  74 B,  76 B with respective electrically non-conductive recesses  80 B,  82 B,  84 B,  86 B and electrically conductive projections  90 B,  92 B,  94 B,  96 B. The female terminals  70 B,  76 B are neutral terminals as at least one of the female terminals  70 B,  76 B is electrically coupled with power regulating circuitry (not shown) in the power consumption module  30 . The female terminal  72 B is a positive power terminal as it is electrically coupled to positive power receiving circuitry (not shown) in the power consumption module  30 . Similarly, the female terminal  74 B is a negative power terminal as it is electrically coupled to negative power receiving circuitry (not shown) in the power consumption module  30   
     The female interface  63 B of the power consumption module  30  matingly engages the male interface  61 A of the battery pack  100  via mating engagement between correspondingly shaped and arranged neutral female and male terminals  70 B,  120 A, positive female and male terminals  72 B,  122 A, negative female and male terminals  74 B,  124 A, and neutral female and male terminals  76 B,  126 A. Engagement between one of the matingly engaged female and male terminals having unique (e.g., non-circular) matching shapes ensures alignment of and electrical connectivity between each of the matingly engaged female and male terminals of the power consumption module  30  and battery pack  100 . In other words, the use of at least one female and male terminal having matching electrical polarity and unique shapes ensures the positive, negative, and neutral terminals of the battery pack  100  are electrically connected to the positive, negative, and neutral terminals, respectively, of the power consumption module  30 . 
     According to some embodiments, the power consumption module  30  is a light emitting module  250 . As shown in  FIGS. 10-13 , the light emitting module  250  includes three light emitting diode (LED) devices  252 A,  252 B,  254  arranged about a base surface  256 . Each LED device  252 A,  252 B,  254  includes a respective mounting surface  260 A,  260 B,  262  on which a respective LED  270 ,  272  is mounted (the LED of the LED device  252 A is not shown, but can be configured similar to LED  270 ). The LED devices  252 A,  252 B are similarly configured, with the mounting surfaces  260 A,  260 B being approximately on the same plane as the base surface  256 . In some implementations, the base surface  256  and mounting surfaces  260 A,  260 B are the same surface. Each LED  270  can be a visible light or non-visible light (e.g., infrared (IR) or ultraviolet (UV) light) LED. In the illustrated embodiments, the LEDs  270  are non-visible light LEDs. The LED devices  252 A,  252 B further include respective optic lenses  280 A,  280 B mounted over the respective LEDs  270 . The optic lenses  280 A,  280 B are secured to a housing  282 A,  282 B that positions the respective optic lenses  280 A,  280 B just above the LEDs  270 , respectively. The optic lenses  280 A,  280 B are configured to redirect (e.g., modify) the light emitted from the LEDs  270  into respective focused (e.g., narrow) light beams to illuminate narrow areas or spaces. In certain embodiments, one of the optic lenses  280 A,  280 B is configured to produce a first narrow beam and the other of the optic lens is configured to produce a second narrow beam that is narrower (e.g., more focused) than the first. 
     The LED device  254  can include an LED  272  configured to emit a non-visible light, such as an IR or UV light, or a visible light. In the illustrated embodiment, the LED  272  is a non-visible light LED. The LED device  254  does not include an optic lens. Rather, the non-visible light emitted from the LED  272  is an unmodified wide-angle light beam to illuminate a wide area or space. Due to the desired wide angle profile of the LED  272  light beam, the mounting surface  262  of the LED  272  is elevated with respect to the mounting surfaces  260 A,  260 B of the LEDs  270 A,  270 B to avoid obstruction of the light beam by the outer rim  35  of the housing  34  and the lens cap  32  of the power consumption module  30 . Elevation of the mounting surface  262  can be achieved by mounting the LED  272  on a spacer  264  secured to and extending from the base surface  256 . 
     Although the power consumption module  250  is shown as a light illumination module with light emitting elements, in other embodiments, the power consumption module includes other types of power consuming devices, such as, for example, one or more of lantern devices, GPS devices, radio receivers, radio transmitters, emergency locator beacons, smoke detectors, temperature sensors, wind speed sensors, pressure sensors, humidity sensors, laser-based devices, distance measurement devices, video recording devices, audio recording devices, internet communication devices, cell phone chargers, auxiliary power outlets, electronic storage devices (e.g., flash drive, USB, digital storage, etc.), wireless communication devices, specialized test equipment (e.g., electrical measurement devices, radon gas detectors, etc.), Taser type devices, emergency signal lights, emergency signal audio alarms, radar speed detectors, biometric scanners, dead-man switches (e.g., alarm systems that issue alarm if no motion is detected for a set period of time), altimeters, depth gages, MP3 players, RFID readers, RFID transmitters, and other like devices. 
     As shown in  FIG. 14 , the power control module  40  modulates the power consumption modes of the power consumption device via the switch  42 . The power control module  40  includes a male interface  61 B configured to matingly engage the female interface  63 A of the battery pack  100 . Generally, the male interface  61 B of the power control module  40  is configured in the same manner as the male interface  61 A of the battery pack  100 . More specifically, the male interface  61 B of the power control module  40  includes a plurality of male terminals  120 B,  122 B,  124 B,  126 B with respective electrically non-conductive projections  130 B,  132 B,  134 B,  136 B and electrically conductive recesses  140 B,  142 B,  144 B,  146 B. The male terminals  120 B,  126 B are neutral terminals as at least one of the male terminals  120 B,  126 B is electrically coupled with power regulating circuitry (not shown) in the power control module  40 . The male terminal  122 B is a positive power terminal as it is electrically coupled to positive power receiving circuitry (not shown) in the power control module  40 . Similarly, the male terminal  124 B is a negative power terminal as it is electrically coupled to negative power receiving circuitry (not shown) in the power control module  40 . The power receiving circuitry is electrically coupled to the power regulating circuitry such that the power regulating circuitry regulates the flow of power from the power receiving circuitry to one or more of the neutral terminals  120 B,  126 B, and thus one or more neutral terminals and neutral lines of interconnected modules (e.g., the neutral pass-through terminals of the battery pack  100  and neutral terminals  70 B of the power consumption module  30 ). 
     The male interface  61 B of the power control module  40  matingly engages the female interface  63 A of the battery pack  100  via mating engagement between correspondingly shaped and arranged neutral female and male terminals  70 A,  120 B, positive female and male terminals  72 A,  122 B, negative female and male terminals  74 A,  124 B, and neutral female and male terminals  76 A,  126 B. Engagement between one of the matingly engaged female and male terminals having unique (e.g., non-circular) matching shapes ensures alignment of and electrical connectivity between each of the matingly engaged female and male terminals of the power control module  40  and battery pack  100 . In other words, the use of at least one female and male terminal having matching electrical polarity and unique shapes ensures the positive, negative, and neutral terminals of the battery pack  100  are electrically connected to the positive, negative, and neutral terminals, respectively, of the power control module  40 . 
     Generally, the neutral communication lines established between respective neutral terminals of the modules  20 ,  30 ,  40  are used to connect the control functions of the power consumption module or modules. The control function or functions of each power consumption module usable with the portable power module assembly of the present disclosure can be unique or may be the same. 
     In one implementation of an assembly with an illumination-type power consumption module that has one or multiple light elements (e.g., LEDs) operable in a single ON mode, one of the neutral communication lines of the assembly is coupled to a positive power terminal of the power module and used to send an ON signal (e.g., electrically couples the positive power terminal of the power module with illumination module) to the illumination module when a switch or button is actuated on the power control module. In implementations where the multiple light elements are operable in a plurality of ON modes, one of the neutral communication lines is coupled to a positive power terminal and can be used to send momentary ON signals to a microprocessor in the illumination module. The microprocessor then selects certain modes of operation based on the number of ON signals received or the duration of the ON signal. 
     In one implementation of an assembly with an illumination-type power consumption module that has one or multiple light elements (e.g., LEDs) operable in a multiple ON modes without a microprocessor, more than one neutral communication line of the assembly can be used to operate the illumination module in different modes. For example, the power control module may include a switch that mechanically selects one or more neutral communication lines to send power to one or more LEDs. For example, in one configuration, a multi-position switch can be adjusted between multiple position with each position be associated with a different power mode. In one position, an ON signal is sent only through a first neutral line to power only a first LED. In another position, an ON signal is sent through first and second neutral lines to power first and second LEDs. In yet another position, an ON signal is sent only through the second neutral line to power only the second LED. With three neutral lines, up to seven different positions can be used for seven different power modes. 
     Additionally, the multiple common neutral lines established across multiple modules of an assembly as described herein can facilitate the use of multiple power control modules in a single assembly. For example, one control module can use one common neutral line for controlling power to one power consumption module of the assembly and another control module can use another common neutral line for controlling power to another power consumption module of the same assembly. 
     Further, in some implementations, one or more of the common neutral lines can be used for communication between two or more power consumption devices of the same assembly. For example, one assembly may have a single power control module that controls power to multiple power consumption devices. Also, one power control module may control power to one power consumption device via one neutral line, and the one power consumption device then controls power to a second consumption device via another neutral line (e.g., an alarm module activating an illumination module). 
     Mating engagement between the respective male and female terminals of the power module  20  (e.g., battery back  100 ), power consumption module  30 , and power control module  40  facilitate co-rotation of the modules. Moreover, because the power module  20  is rotatable relative to the power module housing  22 , the power consumption module  30  and power control module  40  likewise are rotatable relative to the housing. Accordingly, the orientation of the power consumption module  30  and power control module  40  can be adjusted independently of the orientation of the housing  22 . For example, when desired, the orientation of the power consumption module  30  and power control module  40  relative to an object (e.g., the ground or a firearm to which the assembly  10  is attached) can remain fixed or be adjusted while the orientation of the housing  22  is adjusted or remains fixed, respectively. Such functionality can be particularly advantageous as use of the assembly  10  is, for example, alternated between right-handed and left-handed configurations or between different users with different preferences. 
     As discussed above, the mating male and female interfaces of the individual, self-contained interconnectable modules of the portable power module assembly  10  facilitate easy modification and reconfiguration of the assembly without deformation or alteration of the modules while maintaining a positive power supply, negative power supply, and neutral power control across all modules of the assembly. The keyed or unique shape of one set of mating male and female terminals of the interfaces ensures proper electrical alignment between all the modules of the assembly. Accordingly, the present disclosure supports a power module system including any of a plurality of modules in any of a plurality of configurations with each module being removably mechanically and electrically interconnected with one or two other modules via mating engagement between the male and female interfaces to form a desired configuration. Although the possible types and order of modules is infinite, certain system configurations are shown schematically in  FIGS. 13-19  as examples for illustrating the flexibility, versatility, and possibilities of the system. 
     According to  FIG. 15 , the assembly  10  as discussed above is shown schematically as assembly  300 , which provides a reference point for the assemblies of  FIGS. 16-21 . For example, the power module  320  of the assembly  300  is shown as a common module throughout all of the assemblies of  FIGS. 15-21 . In practice, such a flexible approach is desirable, as a single power module can be used in a plurality of configurations for powering a plurality of power consumption devices. The removable interconnection  350  between the male and female interfaces of the modules, as described above in detail, is shown schematically with the male interface  354  of the interconnection  350  shown as a series of projections and the female interface  352  shown as a series of recesses. The power consumption device  330  can be any type of power consumption device, such as those described above. However, for purposes of illustration, the power consumption device  330  of the assemblies of  FIGS. 15-21  is an illumination module  330  that has light-emitting elements for emitting light. Similar to assembly  10 , the assembly  300  also includes an end-mounted power control or switch module  340 . As shown, the power module  320  is positioned between the illumination module  330  and end-mounted power control or switch module  340 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 16 , a portable power module assembly  400  includes a middle-mounted switch module  410  positioned between and mated to the power and illumination modules  320 ,  330 , instead of mated to an end of the power module away from the illumination module as with the end-mounted switch module  340 . The assembly  400  also includes a second power module  320  positioned between and mated to a lantern module  420  and the first power module  320 . The two power modules  320  being in series acts to increase the voltage output of the power modules. The lantern module  420  may include a lantern-type light-emitting element (e.g., a bulb) and an integral switch that is actuatable by a user to activate and regulate the lantern-type light-emitting element. Alternatively, instead of an integral switch, the assembly  400  could include a separate end-mounted switch module  340  or middle-mounted switch module  410  that regulates power to the lantern module  420 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 17 , a portable power module assembly  500  includes the power module  320  and lantern module  420  with integrated switch. To close the electrical loop on the free end of the power module  320 , the assembly  500  includes an end cover module  510 . The end cover module  510  includes a female interface to mate with the male interface of the free end of the power module  320 . In certain implementations, the end cover module  510  may include a mounting element  520  removably attached to the end cover module. The mounting element  520  may be used to facilitate attachment of the assembly  500  to and detachment of the assembly from an object, such as a utility belt, helmet, vehicle, etc. 
     Referring to  FIG. 18 , a portable power module assembly  600  includes two power modules  320  with a middle-mounted switch module  410  positioned between and mated to the power modules. The assembly  600  also includes an illumination module  330  mated to a first of the power modules  320  at a first end of the assembly and a middle-mounted power consumption module  610  mated to a second of the power modules  320 . An end cover module  620  includes a male interface to mate with the female interface of the power consumption module  610  Like the end cover module  510 , the end cover module  620  includes a mounting element  520  removably attached to the end cover module  620 . The middle-mounted switch module  410  of the assembly  600  is configured to regulate power to both the illumination module  330  and the middle-mounted power consumption module  610 . The power consumption module  610  can include any of various power consumption devices as discussed above and equivalents. 
     Referring to  FIG. 19 , a portable power module assembly  700  includes a power module  320 , a middle-mounted power consumption module  710 , and an illumination module  330 . The assembly  700  also includes a middle-mounted switch module  410  positioned between and mated to the power module  320  and middle-mounted power consumption module  710 . The illumination module  330  is mated to an end of the module  710 , such that the module  710  is positioned between and mated to the switch module  410  and illumination module  330 . Additionally, the assembly  700  includes a non-powered module  720  coupled to a free end of the power module  320  away from the middle-mounted switch module  410 . The non-powered module  720  includes some circuitry to close the loop between the positive and negative power terminals of the assembly, but does not include any power consumption devices. The module  720  can include any of various non-powered devices, such as, for example, generic storage compartments, water filters, pepper spray dispensers, microscopes, telescope type devices, flare guns, test sample containers, kits (e.g., first aid, snake bite, medical procedure, water test, fire starter, finger printing, sharpening, etc.), multi-tool systems, whistles, or other audio signal devices, compasses, and smoke generators. 
     Referring to  FIG. 20 , a portable power module assembly  800  includes a power module  320  positioned between and mated to a remote adapter module  810  and a remote switch module  850 . The remote adapter module  810  is configured to remotely couple an illumination module  330  to the power module  320 . The module  810  includes a male interface portion  820  coupled to a female interface portion  830  via a power line or cable  840 . The male interface portion  820  mates with the female interface of the illumination module  330  and the female interface portion  830  mates with the male interface of the power module  320 . The cable  840 , which preferably is a flexible cable, includes a positive power line, negative power line, and at least one neutral communication line corresponding to the positive power, negative power, and at least one neutral terminals of the interface  350 . The remote illumination head  330  is mounted to an object  845 , such as the helmet of a firefighter, police officer, military personnel, or other service provider. 
     The remote switch module  850  includes an interface portion  860  with a male interface for mating with the female interface of the power module  320  and a female interface for mating with the male interface of a male-to-male adaptor module  890 . Further, the remote switch module  850  includes a power line or cable  880  similar to cable  840  that electrically couples the interface portion  860  with a remotely mounted switch  870 . The switch  870  can be mounted to an object, such as a person, in a highly accessible location (e.g., on the chest of the person) and the power module  320 , and associated modules directly mated with the power module, can be mounted in a location causing the least interference with movement of the person (e.g., the back of the person). In certain implementations, the switch  870  is push button that toggles between ON and OFF positions. A second remote adaptor module  810  and illumination module  330  can be mated to the male-to-male adaptor module  890  with the illumination module mounted to the object  845  (e.g., at a location opposite the first illumination module). Actuation of the remote switch  870  modulates power from the power source  320  to the first and second illumination modules  330 . The assembly  800  is particularly convenient in firefighting situations where the firefighter has no free hands for grasping a flashlight and requires quick and easy actuation of a switch for turning a light source on and off. 
     Although not shown, the assembly  800  may also include a power mode selector module with a switch that is actuatable to adjust the power mode of the illumination modules  330  between a plurality of modes. The remote switch module  850  can then behave as a power interrupter to control a main power supply to the power mode selector such that when the remote switch module  850  is turned ON, the illumination modules  330  operate in the power mode selected by the power mode selector module. In this manner, a user need not toggle from a power OFF position to a desired power mode every time the device is turned ON. Rather, this allows a user to set (e.g., keep) the illumination modules  330  in a desired setting and requires only a simple toggling of the remote switch  870  from OFF to ON to activate the illumination modules in the desired setting. 
     Referring to  FIG. 21 , a portable power module assembly  900  includes a power module  320  positioned between and mated to an end cover module  510  and one male interface of a spare battery switch module  910 . Additionally, the assembly  900  includes a spare power module  320  mated to a second male interface of the spare battery switch module  910 . The spare battery switch module  910  is operable to toggle the power supply for the assembly between the two power modules  320 . The spare power module  320  is mated to a second end cover module  510 . The spare battery switch module  910  includes a power line or cable  915  electrically coupled to a remote adapter power module  920 . The power line  915  facilitates the mounting of the power modules  320  remote from the remote adapter power module  920  and any modules directed mated to the module  920 . For example, the assembly  900  includes an emergency locator module  930  mated to a female interface of the remote adapter power module  920  and a gas detection module  940  mated to a male interface of the module  920 . Utilizing the remote adapter power module  920  allows the modules  930 ,  940  to be mounted to an object (e.g., a person) remote from the power sources  320 . 
     The emergency locator module  930  is configured to transmit a beacon signal indicating the location of the wearer of the module  930 . The gas detection module  940  is configured to detect the presence of dangerous levels of a gas and warn a wearer of the module  940  with a visual or audible alarm. Mated to the gas detection module  940  is an end-mounted switch module  340  operable to control power to a remotely mounted illumination module  330 , which is electrically coupled to the emergency locator module  930  via a remote adaptor module  810 . The assembly  900  is particularly suitable in mining applications where remote illumination, emergency locating capability, and dangerous gas detection capability is desirable. 
     As already mentioned, the above-described assemblies are merely exemplary of any of a plurality of other assemblies with any of a plurality of modules. Further, the male-to-female interconnections  350  of the assemblies can be reversed to be female-to-male interconnections. Additionally, any one or more modules of the above assemblies can be omitted. In some implementations, modules adjacent the omitted module or modules are mated together to effectively “shorten” the assembly. Alternatively, in other implementations, one or more modules can replace the omitted module or modules to alter the configuration of the assemblies as desired to accommodate different applications. However, in some embodiments, any middle-mounted modules, including switch modules, power consumption modules, non-powered modules, must include the pass-through electrical circuitry (e.g., with associated female or male interfaces) discussed in detail above. In this manner, in such embodiments, the various modules of the portable power module assembly are interchangeable with each other in any of a plurality of sequences or order to enhance the flexibility and versatility of the assembly. 
     The present subject matter may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.