Patent Publication Number: US-8974074-B1

Title: Mounting system for airfield guard light

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     Embodiments described herein relate generally to a mounting system for a lighting fixture, and more particularly to systems, methods, and devices for a mounting system for an airfield guard light. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Airfield guard lights are generally elevated from ground level and are used to prevent runway incursions of planes entering from taxiways. An example airfield guard light includes a set of two flashing amber lights. The airfield guard light can be positioned at the taxiway/runway boundary, and the flashing lights warn the pilot of an aircraft not to proceed onto the runway. 
     SUMMARY 
     In general, in one aspect, the disclosure relates to a mounting system for a light source. The mounting system can include a first portion having a light source coupling feature and a first vertical adjustment feature, where the light source coupling feature is configured to mechanically couple to the light source, and where the first vertical adjustment feature comprises a first number of fastening features. The mounting system can also include a second portion mechanically coupled to the first portion, where the second portion comprises a second vertical adjustment feature having a second number of fastening features, where the second number of fastening features are mechanically coupled to the first number of fastening features. The mounting system can further include a horizontal adjustment feature disposed at a bottom end of the second portion and mechanically coupled to the second portion. The mounting system can also include a mounting feature mechanically coupled to the horizontal adjustment feature and configured to mechanically couple to a mounting device. The mounting system can further include a guarding device disposed on a top end of the second portion. 
     In another aspect, the disclosure can generally relate to an airfield guard light fixture. The airfield guard light fixture can include a light source and a mounting system mechanically coupled to the light source. The mounting system of the airfield guard light fixture can include a first portion having a light source coupling feature and a first portion coupling feature, where the light source coupling feature is configured to mechanically couple to the light source, and where the first portion coupling feature includes a first number of fastening features. The mounting system of the airfield guard light fixture can also include a second portion mechanically coupled to the first portion. The second portion can include a second portion coupling feature having a second number of fastening features, where the second number of fastening features are mechanically coupled to the first number of fastening features. The second portion can also include a horizontal adjustment feature. The second portion can further include a mounting feature mechanically coupled to the horizontal adjustment feature and configured to mechanically couple to a mounting device. The second portion can also include a guarding device disposed on a top end of the second portion. 
     These and other aspects, objects, features, and embodiments will be apparent from the following description and the appended claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The drawings illustrate only example embodiments of mounting systems for airfield guard lights and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, as mounting systems for airfield guard lights may admit to other equally effective embodiments. The elements and features shown in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the example embodiments. Additionally, certain dimensions or positionings may be exaggerated to help visually convey such principles. In the drawings, reference numerals designate like or corresponding, but not necessarily identical, elements. 
         FIGS. 1A-1C  show various views of a bottom section of a mounting system in accordance with certain example embodiments. 
         FIG. 2  shows a perspective view of a top section of a mounting system in accordance with certain example embodiments. 
         FIG. 3  shows a perspective view of the vertical adjustment feature using the sections of the mounting system shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2  in accordance with certain example embodiments. 
         FIG. 4  shows a perspective view of a guarding device of the mounting system shown in  FIGS. 1A ,  1 C, and  3  in accordance with certain example embodiments. 
         FIGS. 5A-5D  show various views of a light fixture that includes an example mounting system in accordance with certain example embodiments. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS 
     The example embodiments discussed herein are directed to systems, methods, and devices for mounting systems for airfield guard lights. While example embodiments are directed herein to airfield guard lights, other types of lights, whether for airfield applications or not, can be used with example mounting systems. Example embodiments can be used with lighting fixtures that are located in environments, indoors or outdoors, where temperatures can be above and/or below freezing. Other conditions to which example mounting systems can be exposed can include, but are not limited to, moisture, humidity, dirt, exhaust fumes, vibrations, and noise. 
     Example embodiments described herein can also be used with other devices (e.g., cameras, signs) that can be mounted, require vertical and/or horizontal adjustment, and are subject to one or more of the conditions described above. In addition, or in the alternative, example embodiments described herein can be used in one or more of a number of industries, including but not limited to transportation (e.g., roadways, railroads), energy (e.g., oil and gas exploration and production), security, chemicals, pipelines, and shipping. 
     Airfield guard lights (or other types of airport light fixtures) that are used with example mounting systems described herein can be subject to one or more standards, specifications, and/or regulations. For example, an airfield guard light can be subject to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) specification FAA AC 150/5345-46D. In such a case, the airfield guard light must meet the following mechanical specifications: Wind load of 300 miles per hour, 0° to 20° vertical adjustment in 1° increments, ±20° horizontal adjustment in 5° increments, and maximum 2 inch sway under wind load. 
     Airport light fixtures using example embodiments described herein allow such airport light fixtures to continue to meet such standards and/or regulations. Similarly, example embodiments used on light fixtures subject to other standards and/or regulations, whether in the airport industry or in another industry, allow such light fixtures to continue to meet such standards and/or regulations. As used herein an airport light fixture can be used on any part of an airport system, including but not limited to a runway, a jetway, and a taxiway. 
     The example mounting systems (or components thereof) described herein can be made of one or more of a number of suitable materials to allow the mounting systems to meet certain standards and/or regulations while also maintaining durability in light of the one or more conditions under which the mounting system can be exposed. Examples of such materials can include, but are not limited to, aluminum, stainless steel, fiberglass, plastic, and rubber. 
     Example embodiments described herein can be used with one or more of a number of different types of light source, including but not limited to light-emitting diode (LED) light sources, fluorescent light sources, organic LED light sources, incandescent light sources, and halogen light sources. Therefore, example embodiments of mounting systems for airfield guard lights described herein should not be considered limited to a particular type of light source. 
     A user may be any person that interacts with a light fixture using example embodiments described herein. Specifically, a user may install, maintain, operate, and/or interface with a light fixture using example mounting systems. Examples of a user may include, but are not limited to, an engineer, an electrician, an instrumentation and controls technician, a mechanic, an operator, a consultant, a contractor, and a manufacturer&#39;s representative. 
     Example embodiments of example mounting systems for airfield guard lights will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which example mounting systems for airfield guard lights are shown. Mounting systems may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the example embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of mounting systems for airfield guard lights to those or ordinary skill in the art. Like, but not necessarily the same, elements (also sometimes called components) in the various figures are denoted by like reference numerals for consistency. Terms such as “first,” “second,” “distal,” “proximal,” “top,” “bottom,” “left,” “right,” “front,” and “back” are used merely to distinguish one component (or part of a component) from another. Such terms are not meant to denote a preference or a particular orientation. 
       FIGS. 1A-1C  show various views of a bottom section  100  of a mounting system in accordance with certain example embodiments.  FIG. 1A  shows a side perspective view of the bottom section  100 .  FIG. 1B  shows a detailed view of the bottom end of the bottom section  100 .  FIG. 1C  shows a side view of the bottom section  100 . In one or more example embodiments, one or more of the components shown in  FIGS. 1A-1C  may be omitted, repeated, and/or substituted. Accordingly, example embodiments of a mounting system (or portions thereof) should not be considered limited to the specific arrangements of components shown in  FIGS. 1A-1C . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 1A-1C , the bottom section  100  of the mounting structure can include a post  110  (also called a portion  110 ), a guiding device  130 , a mounting feature  150 , and a horizontal adjustment feature  160 . The post  110  of  FIGS. 1A-1C  can be hollow inside, defining a cavity that traverses the length of the post  110 . The size and shape of the cavity can be sufficient to allow one or more conductors electrically and mechanically coupled to a light source (or other electrical device mechanically coupled to the mounting structure) to pass therethrough. 
     The post  110  can be made from a single piece (as from a mold or cast), or the post  110  can be made of multiple pieces that are mechanically coupled to each other using one or more of a number of coupling methods. Such coupling methods can include, but are not limited to, welding, compression fittings, clamps, and fastening devices. The post  110  can have one or more of a number of shapes when viewed cross-sectionally. Examples of such shapes can include, but are not limited to, a square (as shown in  FIGS. 1A-1C ), a rectangle, a circle, an oval, a hexagon, and a triangle. Thus, the post  110  can have one or more of a number of walls (e.g., wall  112 , wall  114 ), corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the post  110 . 
     One or more walls of the post  110  can have one or more of a number of features disposed thereon. For example, wall  114  (one or both side walls when the cross-sectional shape of the post  110  is square or rectangular) can include one or more vertical adjustment features  121 . The vertical adjustment features  121  allow the post  110  and another component (e.g., mounting bracket  200  described below with respect to  FIG. 2 ) of the mounting system to form a vertical angle with respect to each other. 
     Each vertical adjustment feature  121  can include one or more fastening features. For example, as shown in  FIGS. 1A-1C , the vertical adjustment feature  121  of the post  110  can include pivot section  116  and a selection section  170 . In such a case, the pivot section  116  can be one or more apertures (in this example, only one aperture) that traverse at least a portion of the wall  114 . Such apertures of the pivot section  116  can have a size and be positioned in the wall  114  in such a way as to allow a coupling device (as described below with respect to FIGS.  3  and  5 A- 5 D) to traverse therethrough. The pivot section  116  can be positioned toward the top end of the post  110 . 
     The selection section  170  can be positioned some distance from the pivot section  116  on the wall  114  and include two or more apertures (in this example,  21  apertures) that each traverses at least a portion of the wall  114 . Such apertures can also be called vertical angle settings  170 . In certain example embodiments, as shown in  FIG. 1C , the one or more apertures of the pivot section  116  and the two or more vertical angle settings  170  can be positioned on opposing walls  114  of the post  110  as a mirror image of each other. 
     In some cases, the fastening features of the vertical adjustment feature  121  can be a feature aside from an aperture. Examples of such other features can include, but are not limited to, a slot, a detent, and a tab. As described below, the fastening features of the vertical adjustment feature  121  can be used to mechanically couple the post  110  to corresponding fastening features of a different portion of the mounting system, creating a vertical position between the post  110  and the other portion of the mounting system. 
     In addition, or in the alternative, the wall  114  can include a fastening feature in the form of one or more apertures (hidden from view by fastening devices  118 ) that traverse some or all of the wall  114 . Such apertures can be positioned toward the bottom end of the post  110 , below the vertical angle settings  170 . The apertures can be traversed by one or more fastening devices  118  (e.g., bolts, screws) that can be used to mechanically couple the post  110  to some other component (e.g., mounting feature  150 ) of the mounting structure. 
     Another feature that can be included on one or more walls of the post  110  is some or all of a horizontal adjustment feature. The horizontal adjustment feature can allow for horizontal adjustments of the mounting structure. For example, as shown in  FIGS. 1A-1C , a horizontal position plate  120  can be positioned at or near the bottom of the post  110  on a wall (e.g., wall  114 ). The horizontal position plate  120  can display a number of horizontal positions of the mounting structure relative to a reference marker  162  of the horizontal adjustment feature  160 . For example, as shown in  FIGS. 1A and 1B , the horizontal position plate  120  can display horizontal positions of the mounting structure up to 20° on either side of a center point (designated by the reference marker  162 ). 
     The horizontal adjustment feature  160  of the bottom portion  100  of the mounting structure can be a separate component from, or part of, the post  110 . If a separate component, the horizontal adjustment feature  160  can be disposed at the bottom end of the post  110  and mechanically coupled to the post  110 . The horizontal adjustment feature  160  can include a reference marker  162  disposed on a surface (in this case, the top surface  161 ). The horizontal adjustment feature  160  can also include one or more securing devices  164  (e.g., set screws) disposed in the same or a different surface (in this case, the outer side  163 ) relative to the reference marker  162 . 
     The reference marker  162  can be used to orient the horizontal position of the device mounted to the mounting system. For example, if the device is an airfield guard light, the mounting system can be positioned so that the reference marker  162  is substantially perpendicular to the runway/taxiway that is adjacent to where the mounting system is located. 
     The securing device  164  can be used to lock the horizontal adjustment feature  160 , allowing the post  110  (and, more specifically, the rest of the mounting structure) to be locked in one of a number of horizontal positions using the one or more fastening devices  118 . The number of horizontal positions can coincide with the range of angles displayed on the horizontal position plate  120 . The securing device  164  can be adjusted using a tool (e.g., screwdriver, wrench). Alternatively, the securing device  164  can be adjusted by a user without a tool. Like the post  110 , the horizontal adjustment feature  160  can have a cavity that runs along its length. The size and shape of the cavity can be sufficient to allow one or more conductors of the light source to traverse therethrough. 
     In certain example embodiments, the mounting feature  150  of the bottom portion  100  of the mounting structure can be a separate component from the horizontal adjustment feature  160 . The mounting feature  150  can be mechanically coupled to the horizontal adjustment feature  160  in any suitable way (e.g., fixedly, movably) using any suitable coupling means (e.g., mating threads, fastening devices, welding, epoxy, slots). 
     The guarding device  130  of the bottom portion  100  of the mounting structure can disposed on a top end of the post  110 . The guarding device  130  can be fixedly or detachably coupled to the post  110  using one or more of a number of fastening methods, including but not limited to welding, epoxy, fastening devices (using, for example, apertures  142  that traverse the front surface  136  of the guarding device  130 ), mating threads, and compression fittings. In certain example embodiments, the guarding device is wider than the post  110  and overhangs on (extends beyond) at least one side (e.g., wall  114 ) of the post  110  when the guarding device  130  is mechanically coupled to the post  110 . 
     The guarding device  130  can have at least one aperture  133  that traverses therethrough. The aperture  133  can have a shape and size that allows one or more conductors electrically and mechanically coupled to a light source (or other electrical device mechanically coupled to the mounting structure) to traverse therethrough. The aperture  133  can be located on one or more of the surfaces of the guarding device  130 . Such surfaces can include a front surface  136 , a top surface  132  (through which the aperture  133  in  Figure 1A  traverses), and a rear surface  138 . 
     Each surface of the guarding device  130  can be contoured to be substantially the same as, or be different than, the contour of the corresponding surface of the post  110 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 1A , the front surface  136  and the top surface  132  are substantially flat, substantially matching the flat surface of the wall  112  and the joining of the tops of all the walls of the post  110 , respectively. By contrast, the back surface  138  is curved so that only the distal portion of the back surface  138  contacts the back wall of the post  110 . 
     The guarding device  130  can also have one or more of a number of other contours and/or features. For example, as shown in  FIG. 1A , the guarding device  130  can include a raised surface  134 , which in this case is positioned between the front surface  136  and the top surface  132 . The raised surface  134  can be used to help create a gap between the top surface  132  and the bottom of the light source. Such a gap, in conjunction with the aperture  133  (as well as an optional elastomeric device  140  disposed in the aperture  133 ), can help prevent a pinch point in the conductor disposed in the gap and the aperture  133 . 
     In addition to offering pinch point protection and passage of one or more conductors, the guarding device  130  can serve one or more other purposes, including but not limited to reducing or preventing the incursion of dirt into the cavity of the post  110  and preventing or discouraging animals from entering the cavity of the post  110 . A detailed view of the guarding device  130  is shown below with respect to  FIG. 4 . 
       FIG. 2  shows a perspective view of a top section  200  of a mounting system in accordance with certain example embodiments. In one or more example embodiments, one or more of the components shown in  FIG. 2  may be omitted, repeated, and/or substituted. Accordingly, example embodiments of a mounting system (or portions thereof) should not be considered limited to the specific arrangements of components shown in  FIG. 2 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1A-2 , the top section  200  (which can also sometimes be referred to as a “portion”) of the mounting system can have one or more pieces. For example, as shown in  FIG. 2 , the top section  200  can have two pieces (piece  201  and piece  202 ) that are substantially mirror images of each other. In some cases, piece  201  and piece  202  of the top section  200  can be mechanically coupled to each other to form a single piece. The top section  200  (or pieces thereof, such as piece  201  and piece  202 ) can be made from a single piece (as from a mold or cast), or the top section  200  (or pieces thereof) can be made of multiple pieces that are mechanically coupled to each other using one or more of a number of coupling methods. Such coupling methods can include, but are not limited to, welding, compression fittings, clamps, and fastening devices. 
     Piece  201  and piece  202  of the top section  200  can each have one or more of a number of features. For example, as shown in  FIG. 2 , piece  201  can include a light source coupling feature  210  and a vertical adjustment feature  220 . Similarly, piece  202  can include a light source coupling feature  230  and a vertical adjustment feature  240 . Alternatively, a piece (e.g., piece  201 , piece  202 ) of the top section  200  can have no features or different features from the other pieces of the top section  200 . 
     In certain example embodiments, the light source coupling feature (e.g., light source coupling feature  210 , light source coupling feature  230 ) is configured to mechanically couple to a light source or some other device. For example, the light source coupling feature  210  of piece  201  of the top section  200  can have a backing member  211  that has one or more apertures  212  that traverse therethrough. In addition to, or instead of, apertures  212 , the backing member  211  can have one or more of a number of other coupling features, including but not limited to a slot, a notch, a tab, and a clamp. 
     Similarly, the light source coupling feature  230  of piece  202  of the top section  200  can have a backing member  231  that has one or more apertures  232  that traverse therethrough. The size and position of the apertures  212  in the backing member  211  and the apertures  232  in the backing member  231  can coincide with the size and position of apertures (or other coupling features) of the light source (or other device) that mechanically couples to the top section  200 . Similarly, the size and shape of the backing member  211  and backing member  231  can be appropriate to allow the top section  200  to mechanically couple to the light source (or other device). 
     In certain example embodiments, the backing member (e.g., backing member  211 , backing member  231 ) can have an extension that protrudes therefrom. For example, as shown in  FIG. 2 , the backing member  211  of piece  201  can have an extension  213  positioned along one side (in this case, the elongated side of the backing member  211  opposite from where the apertures  212  are positioned) of the backing member  211 . The extension  213  can extend at any angle and direction from the backing member  211 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 2 , the extension  213  can extend approximately 90° downward from the backing member  211 . 
     Similarly, the backing member  231  of piece  202  can have an extension  233  disposed along the inner side of the backing member  231  and directed downward by approximately 90° . The extension (e.g., extension  213 , extension  233 ) and the corresponding backing member can be a single piece or separate pieces that are mechanically coupled to each other using one or more of a number of coupling methods, including but not limited to welding, fastening devices, and compression fittings. The extension can have one or more of a number of features (e.g., apertures) to mechanically couple the corresponding piece (e.g., piece  201 , piece  202 ) to the light source (or other device) and/or another component of the mounting system. 
     In certain example embodiments, the vertical adjustment feature (e.g., vertical adjustment feature  220 , vertical adjustment feature  240 ) has a number of fastening features and is configured to mechanically couple the top section  200  to the post  110 . More specifically, the fastening features (described below) of the vertical adjustment features of the top section  200  mechanically couple to the vertical adjustment features  121  (also called fastening features) of the post  110 . 
     For example, as shown in  FIG. 2 , the vertical adjustment feature  220  of piece  201  of the top section  200  can include two fastening features: Pivot section  222  and a selection section  224 . In such a case, the pivot section  222  of the piece  201  can be one or more apertures (in this example, only one aperture) that traverse at least a portion of the vertical adjustment feature  220 . Such apertures of the pivot section  222  can have a size and be positioned in the vertical adjustment feature  220  in such a way as to allow a coupling device (as described below with respect to FIGS.  3  and  5 A- 5 D) to traverse therethrough. The pivot section  222  can be positioned toward the top end of the vertical adjustment feature  220 . 
     The vertical selection section  224  of the piece  201  can be positioned some distance from the pivot section  222  on the vertical adjustment feature  220  and include two or more apertures (in this example, 6 apertures) that each traverses at least a portion of the body  221  of the vertical adjustment feature  220 . Such apertures can also be called vertical angle settings  224 . Similarly, the vertical adjustment feature  240  of piece  202  can include a pivot section  242  and a vertical selection section  244 , disposed in the body  241  of the vertical adjustment feature  240 , that are substantially similar to the pivot section  222  and the vertical selection section  224  of piece  201 . 
     In some cases, the fastening features (e.g., the pivot section  222 , the vertical selection section  224 ) of the vertical adjustment feature  220  and/or the fastening features (e.g., the pivot section  242 , the vertical selection section  244 ) of the vertical adjustment feature  240  can be a feature aside from an aperture. Examples of such other features can include, but are not limited to, a slot, a detent, and a tab. 
     As described above, the fastening features of the vertical adjustment feature  220  and the fastening features of the vertical adjustment feature  240  can be used to mechanically couple the top section  200  to corresponding fastening features of the vertical adjustment feature  121  of the post  110  of the mounting system, creating a vertical position between the post  110  and the top section  200  of the mounting system. The size and shape of each vertical adjustment feature, as well as the size and positioning of the pivot section and the vertical selection section, can correspond to the size and shape of the vertical adjustment features  121  of the post  110 . 
       FIG. 3  shows a perspective view of the vertical adjustment feature  300  using the bottom section  100  and the top section  200  of the mounting system shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , respectively, in accordance with certain example embodiments. Labels not shown in  FIG. 3  but referred to with respect to  FIG. 3  can be incorporated by reference from  FIGS. 1A-2 . Similarly, a description of a label shown in  FIG. 3  but not described with respect to  FIG. 3  can use the description from  FIGS. 1A-2 . 
     In this case, the post  110  fits inside of the vertical adjustment feature  240  of piece  202  of the top portion  200 . Specifically, the vertical adjustment feature  240  is disposed substantially flush with the wall  114  of the post  110 . While hidden from view, on the opposite side of the post  110 , the vertical adjustment feature  220  of piece  201  can similarly be disposed substantially flush with the wall opposite wall  114  of the post  110 . 
     The vertical adjustment feature  240  can be mechanically coupled to the post  110  in one or more locations. For example, in this case, the vertical adjustment feature  240  is mechanically coupled to the post  110  in two locations. The first location in which the vertical adjustment feature  240  is mechanically coupled to the post  110  in this example is where the pivot section  242  (hidden from view) of the vertical adjustment feature  240  aligns with the pivot section  116  (also hidden from view) of the post  110 . In such a case, a fastening device  320  can be used to traverse through the apertures of the pivot section  242  and the pivot section  116  (and, in some cases, also the pivot section  222  of the vertical adjustment feature  220 ). 
     In certain example embodiments, the fastening device  320  includes a bolt  324 , at least one washer  322 , and a nut (hidden from view). The fastening device  320  can have one or more of a number of other configurations. For example, the fastening device  320  can be a rivet. As another example, the fastening device  320  can be a pin with holes at each end that receive a cotter pin that traverses the holes, where the holes are positioned outside the vertical adjustment feature  220  and the vertical adjustment feature  240 . 
     The fastening device  320  can be appropriate to the configuration of the pivot section  242 , the pivot section  222 , and the pivot section  116 . In some cases, the fastening device can be omitted if the pivot section  242  and the pivot section  116  couple to each other and/or the pivot section  222  and the pivot section  116  couple to each other without an additional component. In any case, when the pivot section  242  and the pivot section  116  (and in some cases, the pivot section  222  and the pivot section  116 ) are coupled to each other, the top section  200  can rotate about the fastening device  320  with respect to the post  110  while the fastening device  320  is fixedly coupled to the pivot section  242 , the pivot section  222 , and the pivot section  116 . 
     As another example of a location in which the vertical adjustment feature  240  can be mechanically coupled to the post  110  (the second location described above), a portion of the vertical selection section  244  of the vertical adjustment feature  240  and the vertical selection section  224  (hidden from view) of the vertical adjustment feature  220  can be mechanically coupled to the vertical selection section  170  of the post  110 . In such a case, a fastening device  330  can be used to traverse through the apertures of the vertical selection section  244  and the vertical selection section  170  (and, in some cases, also the vertical selection section  224  of the vertical adjustment feature  220 ). 
     In certain example embodiments, the fastening device  330  includes a pin  334  with a hole at one or both ends and at least one cotter pin  332 . If the pin has a hole at only one end, then the other end can have one or more of a number of features to help keep the pin  334  in place. Examples of such features can include, but are not limited to, a flattened end that has a larger perimeter than the rest of the pin  334 . The fastening device  330  can be removed and/or inserted by a user without the use of a tool (e.g., screwdriver, wrench). In other words, a user can use his or her hands to remove the cotter pin  332 , remove the pin  334  from a particular aperture of the vertical selection section  244 , the vertical selection section  224 , and the vertical selection section  170 , insert the pin  334  into a different particular aperture of the vertical selection section  244 , the vertical selection section  224 , and/or the vertical selection section  170 , and insert the cotter pin  332  into a secure position relative to the pin  334 . 
     In certain example embodiments, the one or more cotter pins  332  can be tethered to the pin  332  and/or some other component (e.g., the body  241  of the vertical adjustment feature  240 ) of the mounting system. In such a case, the cotter pin  332  can be tethered using a metal thread, a chain, or some other tether capable of withstanding the elements to which the mounting system can be exposed. The tether can be used to help prevent losing the cotter pin  332  when the cotter pin  332  is removed from a secure position relative to the pin  334 . 
     Aside from a pin  334  and cotter pin  332 , other fastening devices  330  can be used to mechanically couple a portion of the vertical selection section  244  of the vertical adjustment feature  240  and the vertical selection section  224  of the vertical adjustment feature  220  can be mechanically coupled to the vertical selection section  170  of the post  110 . For example, the fastening device  330  can be a bolt, at least one washer, and a nut. The fastening device  330  can have one or more of a number of other configurations, all of which allow the fastening device  330  to be removed and reinserted, allowing the vertical position of the top section  200  to change relative to the post  110 . 
     The fastening device  330  can be appropriate to the configuration of the vertical selection section  244 , the vertical selection section  224 , and the vertical selection section  170 . In some cases, the fastening device can be omitted if the vertical selection section  244  and the vertical selection section  170  couple to each other and/or the vertical selection section  224  and the vertical selection section  170  couple to each other without an additional component. In any case, when the vertical selection section  244  and the vertical selection section  170  (and in some cases, the vertical selection section  224  and the vertical selection section  170 ) are coupled to each other, the top section  200  is held in a particular vertical position relative to the post  110  because the fastening device  320  is fixedly coupled to the pivot section  242 , the pivot section  222 , and the pivot section  116 . 
     Using the pivot section  242  and the vertical selection section  244  of the vertical adjustment feature  240 , the pivot section  222  and the vertical selection section  224  of the vertical adjustment feature  220 , and the pivot section  116  and the vertical selection section  170  of the post  110 , the particular orientation of the top section  200  relative to the post  110  can be called a vertical position. In certain example embodiments, a number of vertical positions can be chosen by a user. For example, in this case, there are a total of  21  vertical positions. In other words, there are  21  distinct positions that the top section  200  can have relative to the post  110 . 
     When the vertical adjustment feature  240  and/or the vertical adjustment feature  220  are mechanically coupled to the post  110  using the respective pivot sections, the width of the top surface  132  of the guarding device  130  can be at least as great as the width of the post  110  plus at least a portion of the thickness of the vertical adjustment feature  240  and the vertical adjustment feature  220 . In such a case, the movement of the vertical adjustment feature  240  and the vertical adjustment feature  220  (and, thus, the top portion  220 ) can be limited in one direction by the top surface  132  of the guarding device  130 . 
     Similarly, when the vertical adjustment feature  240  and/or the vertical adjustment feature  220  are mechanically coupled to the post  110  using the respective pivot sections, the width of the front surface  136  of the guarding device  130  can be at least as great as the width of the post  110  plus at least a portion of the thickness of the vertical adjustment feature  240  and the vertical adjustment feature  220 . In such a case, the movement of the vertical adjustment feature  240  and the vertical adjustment feature  220  (and, thus, the top portion  220 ) can be limited in another direction (e.g., opposite the direction described in the preceding paragraph) by the front surface  136  of the guarding device  130 . 
     Thus, the rotational movement of the top section  200  about the fastening device  320  relative to the post  110  can be bounded. In this example, the guarding device  130  limits the range of rotational motion of the top section  200  about the fastening device  320  relative to the post  110  to between -1° and 21° , inclusive. In other words, the guarding device  130  can prevent the vertical position of the top section  200  relative to the post  110  from exceeding the range between -1° and 21°, inclusive. The angle of the vertical position can be measured from the acute angle formed between the top section  200  (e.g., the plane formed by the backing member  231  of the light source coupling feature  230 ) and the post  110  (e.g., the plane formed by wall  112 ). 
     The number and orientation of apertures in the vertical selection section  244  relative to the number and orientation of apertures in the vertical selection section  170  can create a number of discrete vertical positions. For example, in this example, there are a total of 21 different discrete vertical positions, where each vertical position is in one degree increments from an adjacent vertical position between 0° and 20°, inclusive. Other ranges of motion and/or other incremental differences between vertical positions can be achieved in certain example embodiments. 
     In certain example embodiments, a vertical position plate  310  can be used to display one or more vertical positions. For example, as shown in  FIG. 3 , the vertical position plate  310  shows how 21 different vertical positions (vertical angles) can be achieved. In this case, the vertical positions shown on the vertical position plate  310  correspond to the orientation of the vertical angle settings  170  disposed in the post  110 . To achieve a particular vertical position, only one of the vertical angle settings  244  of the vertical adjustment feature  240  can be properly aligned. 
     For example, in this case, the fastening device  330  traverses the top-most aperture of the vertical angle settings  244  and the upper-right-most aperture of the vertical angle settings  170 . The vertical position plate  310  shows that the vertical position of the upper-right-most aperture of the vertical angle settings  170  is 0°, and so the vertical position shown in  FIG. 3  is 0°. In other words, to achieve a vertical position of 0°, the fastening device  330  must traverse the upper-right-most aperture of the vertical angle settings  170  (based on the vertical position plate  310 ), and the only aperture of the vertical angle settings  244  that can align with the upper-right-most aperture of the vertical angle settings  170  is the top-most aperture. 
     The vertical position plate  310  can display any other configuration of vertical positions in any suitable manner. For example, if there are 6 apertures for the vertical angle settings  170  and 21 apertures for the vertical angle settings  244 , then the display of the vertical positions on the vertical position plate  310  can correspond to the apertures of the vertical angle settings  244 . 
     The vertical position plate  310  can be affixed to the body  241  of the vertical adjustment feature  240 , at any location (e.g., adjacent to the vertical angle settings  244 ) on the body  241 . Alternatively, the vertical position plate  310  can be affixed to some other component (e.g., the post  110 ) of the mounting system that is visible to a user. The vertical position plate  310  can be affixed to a component of the mounting system using one or more of a number of fastening methods, including but not limited to epoxy and fastening devices. 
     As discussed above, the mounting system described herein can be used to mount a device (e.g., a light source) in compliance with one or more standards and/or regulations. For example, if the device is a L-804 airfield guard light, when the device is mechanically coupled to the light source coupling feature  210  and the light source coupling feature  230  of the top section  200 , the assembled system can comply with FAA standard AC 150/5345-46D. 
       FIG. 4  shows a perspective view of the guarding device  130  of the mounting system shown in  FIGS. 1A ,  1 C, and  3  in accordance with certain example embodiments. In one or more example embodiments, one or more of the components shown in  FIG. 4  may be omitted, repeated, and/or substituted. Accordingly, example embodiments of a guarding device should not be considered limited to the specific arrangements of components shown in  FIG. 4 . Further, labels not shown in  FIG. 4  but referred to with respect to  FIG. 4  can be incorporated by reference from  FIGS. 1A-3 . Similarly, a description of a label shown in  FIG. 4  but not described with respect to  FIG. 4  can use the description from  FIGS. 1A-3 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1A-4 , the width of the top surface  132  and the front surface  136  can be substantially equal. In addition, the width of the back surface  138  can be less than the width of the top surface  132  and the front surface  136 . In such a case, the width of the back surface  138  can be the same as, or less than, the width of the post  110 , allowing the body  241  of the vertical adjustment feature  240  to rotate beyond the back surface  138  of the guarding device  130 . In addition to, or in the alternative of, the apertures  142  that traverse the front surface  136  described above, one or more other surfaces (e.g., the back surface  138 ) can have one or more apertures (e.g., apertures  143 ) that traverse therethrough. Such apertures can be used to receive one or more fastening devices (e.g., bolts, screws) to mechanically couple the guarding device  130  to the post  110 . 
       FIGS. 5A-5D  show various views of a light fixture  500  that includes an example mounting system in accordance with certain example embodiments. Specifically,  FIG. 5A  shows a front view of the light fixture  500 .  FIG. 5B  shows a rear view of the light fixture.  FIG. 5C  shows a side view of the light fixture  500 .  FIG. 5D  shows a front perspective view of the light fixture  500 . 
     In one or more example embodiments, one or more of the components shown in  FIGS. 5A-5D  may be omitted, repeated, and/or substituted. Accordingly, example embodiments of a lighting fixture using an example mounting system should not be considered limited to the specific arrangements of components shown in  FIGS. 5A-5D . Further, labels not shown in  FIGS. 5A-5D  but referred to with respect to  FIGS. 5A-5D  can be incorporated by reference from  FIGS. 1A-4 . Similarly, a description of a label shown in  FIGS. 5A-5D  but not described with respect to  FIGS. 5A-5D  can use the description from  FIGS. 1A-4 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1A-5D , the light fixture  500  of  FIGS. 5A-5D  can include a light source  510  mechanically coupled to the mounting system. Specifically, the light source  510  is mechanically coupled to the light source coupling feature  210  of piece  201  and the light source coupling feature  230  of piece  202  of the top section  200 . Fastening devices  555  can be used to mechanically couple the top section  200  to the light source  510 . For example, in this case, the fastening devices  555  are bolts that traverse the apertures  212  in the backing member  211  and the apertures  232  in the backing member  231 . 
     The light source  510  can be any light source. In this example, the light source is a model L-804 airfield guard light. The vertical position of the top section  200  relative to the post  110  is 0° . A conductor  570  (e.g., a power cord) that originates in the light source  510  (is coupled to the light source  510 ) exits through the bottom of the light source  510  and traverses and is disposed within the aperture  133  in the guarding device  130  disposed on the top end of the post  110 . The conductor  570  also traverses and is disposed within the cavities along the length of the post  110 , the horizontal adjustment feature  160 , and the mounting feature  150 . The bottom end of the conductor  570  is electrically and mechanically coupled to a connector  580 . The connector  580  can have a connector body  582  and one or more connector pins  584 . 
     When the light fixture  500  is mounted, using the mounting feature  150 , to corresponding mounting structure, a user can adjust the vertical position of the light source  510  between 0° and 20° degrees, inclusive, in one degree increments without the use of tools. Specifically, the user can manually, without the use of tools, remove the fastening device  330 , move the light source  510  to a different vertical position by rotating the light source  510  (and, thus, the top section  200 ), and insert and secure the fastening device  330  into the appropriate apertures in the vertical angle settings  224 , vertical angle settings  244 , and the vertical angle settings  170 . This will cause the light generated by the light source  510  to be directed within a range of approximately horizontally away from the light source and approximately 20° above horizontal, respectively. 
     Further, a user can adjust, with or without tools, the horizontal position of the light source  510 . Specifically, the user can loosen the one or more securing devices  164  of the horizontal adjustment feature  160  and align reference marker  162  substantially perpendicular to the taxiway/runway and tighten the securing device  164 . Once the fastening devices  118  are sufficiently loosened, the user can rotate the light source  510  along with the mounting system to a different horizontal position, using the horizontal position plate  120  relative to the reference marker  162  as a guide. With the light source  510  in the new horizontal position, the one or more fastening devices  118  can be tightened by the user to maintain the light source  510  in that new horizontal position. 
     In one or more example embodiments, example mounting systems described herein can be used to mount a device, such as a light source. The example mounting system allows a user to make vertical and horizontal adjustments, where at least the vertical adjustments can easily be made without the use of a tool. The mounting systems described herein, when mounted with particular devices, comply with one or more of a number of standards and/or regulations. For example, if the device is a L-804 airfield guard light, then the guard light, when mechanically coupled to the example mounting system, complies with FAA standard AC 150/5345-46D. 
     Accordingly, many modifications and other embodiments set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which mounting systems pertain having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that mounting systems are not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of this application. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.