Patent Description:
In tactical and situations warranting firearm usage, proper illumination may be critical to the safety and accuracy of the firearm user. Additionally, each tactical situation may require a specific lighting configuration to ensure safety and accuracy. Quick and easy access to the proper lighting configuration for any given tactical situation may be tantamount to survival.

The present disclosure provides systems, apparatuses, and methods relating to gun lights for firearms. The invention is an illumination device according to claim <NUM>.

Said illumination device for a firearm may include: a housing supporting a front lamp disposed on a front end of the housing, a first side lamp disposed on a first lateral side of the housing, and a second side lamp disposed on a second lateral side of the housing; a clamp coupled to the housing and configured to mount the device to a firearm; a switch actuator rotationally coupled to a rear end of the housing, such that the actuator is manipulable in first and second rotational directions, the actuator extending transversely across a rear end of the housing; and a cam coupled to the switch actuator, such that the cam rotates with the actuator, the cam having a first end including a magnet and a second end having a shaped cam surface configured to interface with a cam follower, wherein the actuator and the cam are biased toward a neutral position; wherein the first end of the cam is adjacent a plurality of magnetic switches configured to control respective states of the front lamp and the side lamps, such that selective rotation of the cam causes the magnet of the cam to operate one or more of the magnetic switches; and wherein the shaped cam surface is configured to interact with the cam follower such that the cam is transitionable between a plurality of discrete positions including a first toggle position and a second toggle position disposed on the cam in the first rotational direction from the neutral position, and a first momentary position and a second momentary position disposed on the cam in the second rotational direction from the neutral position.

In some embodiments, a firearm assembly may include: a firearm having a mounting surface; and an illumination device coupled to the mounting surface, the illumination device comprising: a housing supporting a front lamp disposed on a front end of the housing, a first side lamp disposed on a first lateral side of the housing, and a second side lamp disposed on a second lateral side of the housing; a clamp coupled to the housing and removably securing the illumination device to the mounting surface of the firearm; a switch actuator rotationally coupled to a rear end of the housing, such that the actuator is manipulable in first and second rotational directions, the actuator extending transversely across a rear end of the housing; wherein the actuator is disposed adjacent a front end of a trigger guard of the firearm; and a cam coupled to the switch actuator, such that the cam rotates with the actuator, the cam having a first end including a magnet and a second end having a shaped cam surface configured to interface with a cam follower, wherein the actuator and the cam are biased toward a neutral position; wherein the first end of the cam is adjacent a plurality of magnetic switches configured to control respective states of the front lamp and the side lamps, such that selective rotation of the cam causes the magnet of the cam to operate one or more of the magnetic switches; wherein the shaped cam surface is configured to interact with the cam follower such that the cam is transitionable between a plurality of discrete positions including a first toggle position and a second toggle position disposed on the cam in the first rotational direction from the neutral position, and a first momentary position and a second momentary position disposed on the cam in the second rotational direction from the neutral position; and wherein the cam is configured such that transitioning between the discrete positions causes haptic feedback to the user.

Features, functions, and advantages may be achieved independently in various embodiments of the present disclosure, or may be combined in yet other embodiments, further details of which can be seen with reference to the following description and drawings.

This Detailed Description includes the following sections, which follow immediately below: (<NUM>) Definitions; (<NUM>) Overview; (<NUM>) Examples, Components, and Alternatives; (<NUM>) Advantages, Features, and Benefits; and (<NUM>) Conclusion. The Examples, Components, and Alternatives section is further divided into subsections A through D, each of which is labeled accordingly.

The following definitions apply herein, unless otherwise indicated.

"Comprising," "including," and "having" (and conjugations thereof) are used interchangeably to mean including but not necessarily limited to, and are open-ended terms not intended to exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps.

Terms such as "first", "second", and "third" are used to distinguish or identify various members of a group, or the like, and are not intended to show serial or numerical limitation.

"AKA" means "also known as," and may be used to indicate an alternative or corresponding term for a given element or elements.

"Elongate" or "elongated" refers to an object or aperture that has a length greater than its own width, although the width need not be uniform. For example, an elongate slot may be elliptical or stadium-shaped, and an elongate candlestick may have a height greater than its tapering diameter. As a negative example, a circular aperture would not be considered an elongate aperture.

Directional terms such as "up," "down," "rear," "forward," "vertical," "horizontal," and the like are intended to be understood in the context of a host firearm on which systems described herein may be mounted or otherwise attached. If applicable, the host firearm should be considered as it is held in a typical firing position, such that the barrel of the weapon is substantially horizontal. In the absence of a host firearm, the same directional terms may be used as if the firearm were present. For example, even when viewed in isolation, a component may have a "forward" edge, based on the fact that the edge in question would be installed generally facing the front portion (i.e., muzzle end) of a host firearm.

"Coupled" or "mounted" means connected, either permanently or releasably, whether directly or indirectly through intervening components.

"Resilient" describes a material or structure configured to respond to normal operating loads (e.g., when compressed) by deforming elastically and returning to an original shape or position when unloaded.

"Rigid" describes a material or structure configured to be stiff, non-deformable, or substantially lacking in flexibility under normal operating conditions.

"Elastic" describes a material or structure configured to spontaneously resume its former shape after being stretched or expanded.

"Providing," in the context of a method, may include receiving, obtaining, purchasing, manufacturing, generating, processing, preprocessing, and/or the like, such that the object or material provided is in a state and configuration for other steps to be carried out.

In general, a firearm light of the present disclosure includes a front facing light and two peripheral lights positioned on either side of the front facing light. The term "light" is utilized herein to refer to a battery-powered, portable light, lamp, or torch. Additionally, firearm lights of the present disclosure include one or more actuators configured to switch the firearm light between a plurality of (e.g., five) different positions. These positions may include a neutral position in which all lamps of the gun light are off, a first momentary position in which the front light is on, a second momentary position in which the front light and the side lights are on, a first toggle position in which the front light is on, and a second toggle position in which the front light and the side lights are on. In general, the two momentary positions are configured such that upon release of the actuator(s), the actuator and switch automatically return to the neutral position due to a biasing force provided by a biasing member. Additionally, with respect to the two toggle positions, the actuator is configured to remain in that position until the user manually returns the actuator to the neutral position and/or otherwise manually changes the position of the actuator.

The firearm light is configured to be mounted to a firearm (e.g., to a tactical rail beneath, above, or otherwise adjacent the barrel, etc.), in an orientation generally parallel to the barrel. The front light of the firearm light is configured to illuminate the area directly in front of the barrel. This configuration advantageously increases the accuracy of the user in dimly lit or unlit areas. in some examples, the front light may have an aspheric front light lens configured to increase the width of the light beam. Additionally, or alternatively, the front light lens may be substantially frustoconical. In some examples, the firearm light may include a bezel (e.g., a removable bezel) disposed at a front end of the firearm light and configured to hold the front light lens.

The side lights of the firearm light are disposed laterally, on either side of the front light, and are configured to illuminate peripheral areas adjacent the firearm. This configuration advantageously increases the accuracy and awareness of the user in dimly lit or unlit areas. The side lights may each have a reflective dish shaped formed in the shape of a truncated, skewed (i.e., slanted) cone, such that the reflective dish is configured to align and direct the light beam in a generally forward and diagonal direction.

The firearm light includes a body further including a battery cavity and a mounting bracket. The battery cavity is configured to receive one or more (e.g., rechargeable) batteries. Disposed on a first (front) end of the body is a lens sub-assembly housing the front light and side lights described above. Disposed on a second (rear) end of the body is a switch sub-assembly.

The switch sub-assembly includes the one or more actuators for switching the lights. In some examples, the actuator has a pair of manual interface elements configured to be disposed on either side of a trigger of the firearm when the firearm light is mounted under the barrel. This advantageously provides easy access to the actuator, for example, with a thumb and/or finger of the user while holding the firearm. In some examples, a biasing member (e.g., a spring, resilient member, etc.) is configured to engage the one or more actuators, causing a biasing of the actuators in a single direction. In other words, if the actuator is moved in a first direction, the biasing member is engaged and returns the actuator back to the neutral position upon release. In contrast, if the actuator is moved in a second direction, the biasing member does not engage (i.e., the actuator would not return to the neutral position unless acted on by some other force).

Movement of the actuator of the switch sub-assembly is configured to cause rotation of an internal cam. This cam has a magnet disposed on one end, an opposite end being shaped to interact with a cam follower. In some examples, the shaped opposite end includes a plurality of teeth). The cam follower is configured to mate with the shaped end (e.g., teeth) of the cam, and to selectively arrest or inhibit rotation of the cam, similar to the configuration of a ratchet and pawl. The cam and cam follower are configured to obtain one of a plurality of (e.g., five) discrete cam positions corresponding to the several lighting configurations described above.

A circuit board (e.g., a printed circuit board or PCB) is disposed proximate the cam and cam follower, the board having a plurality of magnetic switches (e.g., reed switches) disposed thereon in a selected pattern. The pattern of magnetic switches is configured such that, as the cam rotates, the magnet of the cam passes above and/or near one or more of the magnetic switches, thereby selectively activating one or more of the switches. For example, the magnetic switches may be normally open, such that, if the magnet is sufficiently close to one of the magnetic switches, the magnetic switch will close. Each magnetic switch may be configured to close a corresponding path between the power source (e.g., battery or batteries) and one or more corresponding lights (i.e., the front and/or side lights described above). Accordingly, in this example, when the magnet passes above one of the magnetic switches, that switch is closed, completing a circuit to supply power to the corresponding light(s).

The following sections describe selected aspects of illustrative firearm lights as well as related systems and/or methods. The examples in these sections are intended for illustration and should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the present disclosure. Each section may include one or more distinct embodiments or examples, and/or contextual or related information, function, and/or structure.

In <FIG>, a firearm <NUM> is shown having a barrel <NUM>, a grip <NUM>, and a trigger <NUM>. Mounted below barrel <NUM>, e.g., attached to a tactical rail of the firearm, is a firearm light <NUM> according the present disclosure. Firearm light <NUM> comprises a lens sub-assembly <NUM>, a main body <NUM>, and a switch sub-assembly <NUM>. Lens sub-assembly <NUM> includes a front light lens <NUM> disposed at the front of firearm light <NUM>, a bezel <NUM> configured to hold front light lens <NUM>, and a pair of side lenses <NUM> disposed on either side of front light lens <NUM>. Switch sub-assembly <NUM> includes an actuator <NUM> (see <FIG>) configured to extend laterally on both sides of trigger <NUM>. A clamp <NUM> of the main body is configured to detachably mount gun light <NUM> to firearm <NUM>.

<FIG> is a rear view of firearm light <NUM> mounted below barrel <NUM>. As depicted in <FIG>, actuator <NUM> extends laterally on either side of a trigger guard of firearm <NUM>. Accordingly, actuator <NUM> is easily accessible to a user holding firearm <NUM>, for example by the user's thumb and/or finger. This configuration provides accessibility regardless of which hand the user is holding firearm <NUM> (i.e., provides accessibility for both right-handed and left-handed users). In this example, actuator <NUM> is a single rotating actuator having opposing arms, either of which may be manipulated to rotate the actuator as a whole. This advantageously allows firearm light <NUM> to be easily mounted for use by any user, without needing to reorient the actuator for user accessibility (i.e., the actuator need not be relocated to one side or the other).

<FIG> are isometric views of firearm light <NUM> in an unmounted configuration with respect to firearm <NUM>. As depicted, fixed and movable jaws of clamp <NUM> of firearm light <NUM> are held together and adjusted using a fastener (e.g., a screw), such that firearm light <NUM> is easily mountable to a corresponding surface of the firearm, e.g., under a firearm barrel. In the depicted examples, firearm <NUM> is a handgun. However, any suitable firearm may be utilized, such as a rifle, shotgun, pellet gun, paintball gun, and/or the like.

<FIG> depicts firearm light <NUM> in a schematic sectional view taken generally along a horizontal centerline. Lens sub-assembly <NUM> includes a light source <NUM>. Light source <NUM> includes a base having a plurality of lamps thereon, each of which is configured to emit light (e.g., visible light, infrared, etc.) independently when provided an electrical current. For example, light source <NUM> may include a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) 134A, 134B, and 134C operating in the visible spectrum. In the present embodiment, three LEDs are included on light source <NUM>, such that the front lens and two side lenses each have an associated LED. In some embodiments there may be a plurality of LEDs for each lens. In some embodiments, incandescent bulbs, Xenon bulbs, Halogen bulbs, High-intensity discharge lamps (HIDs), etc. may be utilized in addition to or in place of one or more of the LEDs.

Front lens <NUM> may include any suitable structure configured to amplify, reflect, and/or direct a light beam emitted by the front lamp. For example, front lens <NUM> may include a solid prism and/or a reflective surface. Front lens <NUM> may be aspherical, for example front lens may be a convex lens, a Fresnel lens, and/or the like. In some examples, front lens <NUM> may be substantially frustoconical. Front lens <NUM> may be configured to increase the width of a light beam emitted from light source <NUM>, for example, by diverging rays of the light beam from the optical axis.

Side lenses <NUM> are disposed on either side of lens sub-assembly <NUM>. Side lenses <NUM> are configured to direct light from light source <NUM> to either side of firearm light <NUM>, providing advantageous peripheral lighting for the user. Side lenses <NUM> may be non-spherical, frustoconical, and/or otherwise shaped to increase the width of a light beam emitted from light source <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, side lenses <NUM> may be configured to direct light both forward and laterally to both illuminate a peripheral area on either side of firearm light <NUM> and the widen the area illuminated by front lens <NUM>. In some examples, side lenses <NUM> are solid or prismatic. In some examples, side lenses are hollow reflectors having planar transparent lenses disposed on external openings of the hollow reflectors. Front lens <NUM> and side lenses <NUM> may comprise glass, plastic, polycarbonate, acrylic, and/or other suitable materials.

<FIG> depicts an exploded view of firearm light <NUM>. Main body <NUM> may house a power supply for the light. In this example, main body <NUM> houses one or more batteries <NUM> and a battery control plate <NUM>. The battery control plate is electrically coupled to battery contacts <NUM> (e.g., spring terminal contacts), and selectively connectable to the various lights via the switch sub-assembly. Switch sub-assembly <NUM> is configured to control the connection between batteries <NUM> and the front and side lights by selectively engaging conductive channels between batteries <NUM> and the front and side lights through battery control plate <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, bezel <NUM> is configured to fasten front lens <NUM> to the body of lens sub-assembly <NUM>. Bezel <NUM> may include any suitable device configured to clamp the lens to the body of the firearm light. In this example, bezel <NUM> includes a ring having perimetric castellations (AKA crenellations and/or ridges). This advantageously allows light to escape laterally when firearm light <NUM> is placed bezel-down on a flat surface. The crenellated bezel may also provide a tactical advantage if firearm light <NUM> is utilized in the form of a blunt weapon, e.g., against an attacker.

<FIG> depicts an exploded view of lens sub-assembly <NUM>. Light source <NUM> may be fastened to lens sub-assembly <NUM> by a C clip <NUM>. A gasket <NUM> (AKA an O-ring or toric joint) is disposed between the lens sub-assembly and main body <NUM>, such that gasket <NUM> is configured to seal the interface therebetween.

<FIG> depicts and an exploded view of switch sub-assembly <NUM>, including a gasket <NUM>, a printed circuit board <NUM> (PCB), cam <NUM>, and cam follower <NUM>. Cam <NUM> and cam follower <NUM> (and corresponding components in other embodiments) may be referred to as (and function as) a detent mechanism. Actuator <NUM> is disposed on the rear side of assembly housing <NUM> and attached to assembly housing by a mounting plate <NUM>. Actuator <NUM> is coupled with cam <NUM> through an opening in the center of assembly housing <NUM> (shown in <FIG> as a circular cut-out in assembly housing <NUM>). Actuator <NUM> and cam <NUM> are connected such that actuator <NUM> rotates cam <NUM> when a rotational force is applied to actuator <NUM> by a user. Biasing member <NUM> is disposed between actuator <NUM> and mounting plate <NUM> and configured to bias actuator <NUM> in only a single rotational direction (e.g., clockwise or counterclockwise). In the present example, biasing member <NUM> is a resilient device (e.g., a spring) configured to allow actuator <NUM> to freely rotate in a first (unbiased) direction but opposes rotation in a second (biased) direction. In other words, biasing member <NUM> is configured to build tension as a user rotates actuator <NUM> in the second direction, such that upon release by the user, actuator <NUM> returns to a neutral position.

Switch sub-assembly <NUM> includes a two-part folding clasp comprising a hooked member <NUM> and a linkage bar <NUM>. The two-part folding clasp is configured to fasten lens sub-assembly <NUM> to main body <NUM>.

As shown in the end cutaway view of <FIG>, cam <NUM> has a magnet <NUM> disposed on one end, the opposite end being shaped to interact functionally with cam follower <NUM> (e.g., including a series of teeth). Cam follower <NUM> is configured to follow the shaped end of cam <NUM>, thereby enabling cam <NUM> to be in a plurality of unique rotational positions.

An alternative embodiment of the cam and cam follower is shown in the end cutaway views of <FIG>. For purposes of explanation, other components of the switch sub-assembly are substantially as described and labeled above. In this example, a cam <NUM> corresponds to cam <NUM> and a cam follower (corresponding to cam follower <NUM>) includes a resilient member 238A and a pawl 238B. Resilient member 238A provides a biasing force on pawl 238B such that pawl 238B maintains a mating fit with the shaped end of cam <NUM> (i.e., pawl 238B follows and remains in contact with the shaped end). A magnet <NUM> is disposed on cam <NUM>, opposite the shaped end. Magnet <NUM> may be disposed on cam <NUM> such that magnet <NUM> protrudes from the front surface of cam <NUM>. Alternatively, magnet <NUM> may be seated flush with cam <NUM>.

As described above, in response to a force being applied to actuator <NUM> by a user, actuator <NUM> is configured to rotate cam <NUM> in the corresponding rotational direction (i.e., clockwise or counterclockwise). As cam <NUM> rotates, magnet <NUM> passes over normally open magnetic (e.g., reed) switches 152A, 152B, 152C, and 152D, selectively causing each switch to close. In the present embodiment, magnetic switches 152B and 152C are both individually configured to electrically connect the front LED of light source <NUM> to batteries <NUM>. Magnetic switches 152A and 152D are both individually configured to electrically connect the side LEDs of light source <NUM> simultaneously to batteries <NUM>.

Pawl 238B is configured to mate with the teeth of cam <NUM> such that five distinct positions are possible. Specifically, positions 154A, 154B, 154C, 154D, and 154E correspond to unique positions of cam <NUM> and magnet <NUM>. In other words, positions 154A, 154B, 154C, 154D, and 154E are configured such that each position corresponds to a particular positioning of magnet <NUM> with respect to magnetic switches 152A, 152B, 152C, and 152D.

<FIG> depicts the neutral position of cam <NUM> (and therefore of actuator <NUM>). In the neutral position, magnet <NUM> is disposed between magnetic switches 152B and 152C. Therefore, the magnetic switches are not influenced sufficiently enough by the magnetic field of magnet <NUM> to close and are therefore all open. Accordingly, none of the LEDs of light source <NUM> are electrically connected to batteries <NUM>. In other words, all light-emitting features of the firearm light are in an off state. In the neutral position, pawl 238B is resting in position 154C (a bottom land of the teeth).

<FIG> depicts a first momentary position of cam <NUM> (and therefore of actuator <NUM>). In response to actuator <NUM> being manipulated by the user (e.g., with a thumb) in the rotational direction corresponding to the first momentary position, cam <NUM> rotates such that pawl 238B overcomes the biasing force of resilient member 238A and comes to rest in position 154D. Transitioning from position 154C to position 154D includes the pawl traveling over a first convex surface between the two resting positions.

In the first momentary position, magnet <NUM> is located above magnetic switch 152C. The magnetic field of magnet <NUM> closes magnetic switch 152C and therefore electrically connects the front LED of light source <NUM> to batteries <NUM>. In other words, in the first momentary position, the front light of firearm light <NUM> is on. Additionally, due to the force of biasing member <NUM>, cam <NUM> and actuator <NUM> automatically return to the neutral position when the actuator is released.

<FIG> depicts a second momentary position of cam <NUM> (and therefore of actuator <NUM>). As shown, the second momentary position corresponds to pawl 238B resting in position 154E of cam <NUM>. To transition from the first momentary position to the second momentary position, pawl 238B moves from position 154D to 154E. Transitioning from position 154D to position 154E includes the pawl traveling over a second convex surface between the two resting positions, this second convex surface being significantly larger than the first. This has the effect of a haptic or tactile indication of the position to the user through actuator <NUM>, e.g., the user feels a "bump" through the actuator. In other words, as the user transitions actuator <NUM> from the first momentary position to the second momentary position, the user will feel the bump through actuator <NUM>, thereby indicating that the new position has been reached.

In the second momentary position, magnet <NUM> is above magnetic switches 152C and 152D (both) and thus, the magnetic field of magnet <NUM> closes both of these magnetic switches. This results in the front LED and side LEDs of light source <NUM> being electrically connected to batteries <NUM>. In other words, in the second momentary position, both the front light and the side lights of firearm light <NUM> are on (i.e., all light-emitting features of the firearm light are in an on state). Due to the force of biasing member <NUM>, cam <NUM> and actuator <NUM> are configured to automatically return to the neutral position when the actuator is released.

<FIG> depicts a first toggle position of cam <NUM> (and therefore of actuator <NUM>). In the first toggle position, cam <NUM> has been rotated from the neutral position in an opposite rotational direction from the momentary positions described above. As depicted in <FIG>, the first toggle position corresponds to pawl 238B resting in position 154B of cam <NUM>. To transition from the neutral position to the first toggle position, pawl 238B moves from position 154C to 154B. Transitioning from position 154C to 154B includes the pawl traveling over a third convex surface between the two resting positions and coming to rest in a groove between two convex teeth. As the user transitions actuator <NUM> from the neutral position to the first toggle position, the user will feel the actuator "click" into place.

In the first toggle position, magnet <NUM> is above magnetic switch 152B. Accordingly, the magnetic field of magnet <NUM> closes magnetic switch 152B, thus electrically connecting the front light LED of light source <NUM> to batteries <NUM>. In other words, in the first toggle position, the front light of firearm light <NUM> is on. Since the force of biasing member <NUM> is only in a single rotational direction (i.e., opposing only a rotation toward the momentary positions), cam <NUM> and actuator <NUM> remain in the first toggle position when the actuator is released and do not automatically return to the neutral position.

<FIG> depicts a second toggle position of cam <NUM> (and therefore of actuator <NUM>). As shown, the second toggle position corresponds to pawl 238B resting in position 154A of cam <NUM>. To transition from the first toggle position to the second toggle position, pawl 238B moves from position 154B to 154A. Transitioning from position 154B to 154A includes the pawl traveling over a fourth convex surface between the two resting positions and coming to rest in a groove between two convex teeth. As the user transitions actuator <NUM> from the first toggle position to the second toggle position, the user will again feel the actuator "click" into place (i.e., similar to the transition from the neutral position to the first toggle position).

In the second toggle position, magnet <NUM> is above magnetic switches 152A and 152B (both). Accordingly, the magnetic field of magnet <NUM> closes both magnetic switches, thus electrically connecting both the front light LED and side LED lights of light source <NUM> to batteries <NUM>. In other words, in the second toggle position both the front light and side lights of firearm light <NUM> are on (i.e., all light-emitting features of the firearm light are in an on state). As with the first toggle position, cam <NUM> and actuator <NUM> remain in the first toggle position when the actuator is released and do not automatically return to the neutral position.

As described above, the two toggle positions may be selectively engaged by the user through a force applied to actuator <NUM>. In either of the toggle positions, the user manually manipulates actuator <NUM> back to the neutral position to turn firearm light <NUM> completely off. In contrast, in either of the momentary positions, cam <NUM> and actuator <NUM> automatically return to the neutral position when the actuator is released.

This section describes a second illustrative switch sub-assembly <NUM> substantially similar to subassembly <NUM> described above. Switch sub-assembly <NUM> may be incorporated into firearm light <NUM> in place of switch sub-assembly <NUM>. All other components of firearm light <NUM> described above may be incorporated in their entirety in (or combined with) subassembly <NUM>, unless noted otherwise in the description below. As shown in the exploded view of <FIG>, switch sub-assembly <NUM> includes a first gasket <NUM>, a second gasket <NUM>, a printed circuit board <NUM> (PCB), a shield <NUM>, a cam <NUM>, and a cam lock having a leaf spring 338A and a ball 338B (e.g., a ball bearing). Actuator <NUM> is disposed on the rear side of assembly housing <NUM> and attached to assembly housing by a mounting plate <NUM>. Actuator <NUM> is coupled to cam <NUM> through an opening in the center of assembly housing <NUM> (shown in <FIG> as a circular cut-out in assembly housing <NUM>). Actuator <NUM> and cam <NUM> are connected such that actuator <NUM> rotates cam <NUM> when a rotational force is applied to actuator <NUM> (e.g., by a user).

As described above, a biasing member <NUM> is disposed between actuator <NUM> and mounting plate <NUM> and configured to bias actuator <NUM> in only a single rotational direction (e.g., clockwise or counterclockwise). As in subassembly <NUM>, biasing member <NUM> is a resilient device (e.g., a spring) configured to allow actuator <NUM> to freely rotate in a first (unbiased) direction but to oppose rotation in a second (biased) direction. In other words, biasing member <NUM> is configured to build tension as a user rotates actuator <NUM> in the second direction, such that upon release by the user, actuator <NUM> returns to a neutral position.

<FIG> depicts a front side of assembly housing <NUM>, i.e., the side opposite actuator <NUM>. Assembly housing <NUM> includes several functional shaped ridges, ribs, or contours on an interior surface, such as a first protrusion 339A and a second protrusion 339B configured to abut lateral ends of leaf spring 338A. These protrusions enable leaf spring 338A to bend as cam <NUM> rotates but prohibits leaf spring 338A from being displaced inside assembly housing <NUM>. Additionally, assembly housing <NUM> includes a third protrusion 341A and a fourth protrusion 341B configured to abut medial portions of leaf spring 338A. In this manner, protrusions 339A, 339B, 341A, and 341B confine leaf spring 338A from translational motion within assembly housing while allowing leaf spring 338A to bend. Protrusions 341A and 341B are configured to restrict translational motion of ball 338B. In other words, ball 338B is confined in a channel formed between protrusion 341A and 341B. In general, protrusions 339A, 339B, 341A, and 341B may be formed as a single piece with assembly housing <NUM>.

Shield <NUM>, disposed between PCB <NUM> and cam <NUM> and described further below, provides additional confinement of ball 338B. In other words, shield <NUM>, assembly housing <NUM>, leaf spring 338A, and protrusions 341A and 341B all work in concert to confine ball 338B in a single region within assembly housing <NUM>. Shield <NUM> may be included in subassembly <NUM>.

As shown in the end cutaway view of <FIG> cam <NUM> has a magnet <NUM> disposed on one end, the opposite end being shaped to interact functionally with ball 338B of the cam lock (e.g., including a series of teeth). Magnet <NUM> may be disposed on cam <NUM> such that magnet <NUM> protrudes from the front surface of cam <NUM>. Alternatively, magnet <NUM> may be seated flush with cam <NUM>. Ball 338B is configured to mate with the shaped end of cam <NUM>, thereby enabling cam <NUM> to be in a plurality of unique rotational positions. Leaf spring 338A provides a biasing force on ball 338B such that ball 338B maintains a mating fit with the shaped end of cam <NUM> (i.e., ball 338B follows and remains in contact with the shaped end).

As described above, in response to a force being applied to actuator <NUM> by a user, actuator <NUM> is configured to rotate cam <NUM> in the corresponding rotational direction (i.e., clockwise or counterclockwise). As described in the previous section, as cam <NUM> rotates, magnet <NUM> passes over normally open magnetic (e.g., reed) switches 352A, 352B, 352C, and 352D, selectively causing each switch to close. In the present embodiment, magnetic switches 352B and 352C are individually configured to electrically connect the front LED of light source <NUM> to batteries <NUM>. Magnetic switches 352A and 352D are individually configured to electrically connect the side LEDs of light source <NUM> simultaneously to batteries <NUM>.

Shield <NUM> includes a cutout such that, when assembled, the cutout (i.e., opening) is disposed between the path of magnet <NUM> and magnetic switches 352A, 352B, 352C, and 352D. In this manner, the magnetic field of magnet <NUM> is substantially isolated to the vicinity of the magnetic switches.

Ball 338B is configured to mate with the teeth of cam <NUM> such that five distinct positions are possible. Specifically, positions 354A, 354B, 354C, 354D, and 354E correspond to unique positions of cam <NUM> and magnet <NUM>. In other words, positions 354A, 354B, 354C, 354D, and 354E are configured such that each position corresponds to a particular positioning of magnet <NUM> with respect to magnetic switches 352A, 352B, 352C, and 352D.

<FIG> depicts the neutral position of cam <NUM> (and therefore of actuator <NUM>). In the neutral position, magnet <NUM> is disposed between magnetic switches 352B and 352C. Therefore, the magnetic switches are not influenced sufficiently enough by the magnetic field of magnet <NUM> to close and are therefore all open. Accordingly, none of the LEDs of light source <NUM> are electrically connected to batteries <NUM>. In other words, all light-emitting features of the firearm light are in an off state. In the neutral position, ball 338B is resting in position 354C (a bottom land of the teeth).

<FIG> depicts a first momentary position of cam <NUM> (and therefore of actuator <NUM>). In response to actuator <NUM> being manipulated by the user (e.g., with a thumb) in the rotational direction corresponding to the first momentary position, cam <NUM> rotates such that ball 338B overcomes the biasing force of leaf spring 338A and comes to rest in position 354D. Transitioning from position 354C to position 354D includes the ball traveling over a first convex surface between the two resting positions.

In the first momentary position, magnet <NUM> is located above magnetic switch 352C. The magnetic field of magnet <NUM> closes magnetic switch 352C and therefore electrically connects the front LED of light source <NUM> to batteries <NUM>. In other words, in the first momentary position, the front light of firearm light <NUM> is on. Additionally, due to the force of biasing member <NUM>, cam <NUM> and actuator <NUM> automatically return to the neutral position when the actuator is released.

<FIG> depicts a second momentary position of cam <NUM> (and therefore of actuator <NUM>). As shown, the second momentary position corresponds to ball 338B resting in position 354E of cam <NUM>. To transition from the first momentary position to the second momentary position, ball 338B moves from position 354D to 354E. Transitioning from position 354D to position 354E includes the ball traveling over a second convex surface between the two resting positions, this second convex surface being significantly larger than the first. This has the effect of a haptic or tactile indication of the position to the user through actuator <NUM>, e.g., the user feels a "bump" through the actuator. In other words, as the user transitions actuator <NUM> from the first momentary position to the second momentary position, the user will feel the bump through actuator <NUM>, thereby indicating that the new position has been reached.

In the second momentary position, magnet <NUM> is above magnetic switches 352C and 352D (both) and thus, the magnetic field of magnet <NUM> closes both of these magnetic switches. This results in the front LED and side LEDs of light source <NUM> being electrically connected to batteries <NUM>. In other words, in the second momentary position, both the front light and the side lights of firearm light <NUM> are on (i.e., all light-emitting features of the firearm light are in an on state). Due to the force of biasing member <NUM>, cam <NUM> and actuator <NUM> are configured to automatically return to the neutral position when the actuator is released.

<FIG> depicts a first toggle position of cam <NUM> (and therefore of actuator <NUM>). In the first toggle position, cam <NUM> has been rotated from the neutral position in an opposite rotational direction from the momentary positions described above. As depicted in <FIG>, the first toggle position corresponds to ball 338B resting in position 354B of cam <NUM>. To transition from the neutral position to the first toggle position, ball 338B moves from position 354C to 354B. Transitioning from position 354C to 354B includes the ball traveling over a third convex surface between the two resting positions and coming to rest in a groove between two convex teeth. As the user transitions actuator <NUM> from the neutral position to the first toggle position, the user will feel the actuator "click" into place.

In the first toggle position, magnet <NUM> is above magnetic switch 352B. Accordingly, the magnetic field of magnet <NUM> closes magnetic switch 352B, thus electrically connecting the front light LED of light source <NUM> to batteries <NUM>. In other words, in the first toggle position, the front light of firearm light <NUM> is on. Since the force of biasing member <NUM> is only in a single rotational direction (i.e., opposing only a rotation toward the momentary positions), cam <NUM> and actuator <NUM> remain in the first toggle position when the actuator is released and do not automatically return to the neutral position.

<FIG> depicts a second toggle position of cam <NUM> (and therefore of actuator <NUM>). As shown, the second toggle position corresponds to ball 338B resting in position 354A of cam <NUM>. To transition from the first toggle position to the second toggle position, ball 338B moves from position 354B to 354A. Transitioning from position 354B to 354A includes the ball traveling over a fourth convex surface between the two resting positions and coming to rest in a groove between two convex teeth. As the user transitions actuator <NUM> from the first toggle position to the second toggle position, the user will again feel the actuator "click" into place (i.e., similar to the transition from the neutral position to the first toggle position).

In the second toggle position, magnet <NUM> is above magnetic switches 352A and 352B (both). Accordingly, the magnetic field of magnet <NUM> closes both magnetic switches, thus electrically connecting both the front light LED and side LED lights of light source <NUM> to batteries <NUM>. In other words, in the second toggle position both the front light and side lights of firearm light <NUM> are on (i.e., all light-emitting features of the firearm light are in an on state). As with the first toggle position, cam <NUM> and actuator <NUM> remain in the first toggle position when the actuator is released and do not automatically return to the neutral position.

This section describes steps of an illustrative method <NUM> of use suitable for a firearm light of the present disclosure; see <FIG>. Aspects of firearm light <NUM> described above may be utilized in the method steps described below. Where appropriate, reference may be made to components and systems that may be used in carrying out each step. These references are for illustration and are not intended to limit the possible ways of carrying out any particular step of the method.

In the current example, the firearm light includes a front light, two side lights disposed on opposing sides of the firearm light, and a switch having an actuator with a neutral position, two momentary positions, and two toggle positions. Each position is substantially similar to the positions described above and, accordingly, corresponds to the lighting configurations described above. A user of the firearm may switch between the different lighting configurations by manipulating the actuator into the different positions. In the current example, the momentary positions are enabled by rotating the actuator, e.g., using a finger or thumb, in a first direction from the neutral position. The toggle positions are enabled by rotating the actuator in a second direction from the neutral position. In general, the actuator may be configured to transition to either the momentary positions or the toggle positions by pressing in any suitable direction (e.g., up, down, clockwise, counterclockwise). The current example is for illustration and is not intended to limit the direction of the positions.

<FIG> is a flowchart illustrating steps performed in an illustrative method, and may not recite the complete process or all steps of the method. Although various steps of method <NUM> are described below and depicted in <FIG>, the steps need not necessarily all be performed, and in some cases may be performed simultaneously or in a different order than the order shown.

Step <NUM> of method <NUM> includes rotating the actuator in a first rotational direction from a neutral position to a first momentary position. In response, a front light turns on.

Step <NUM> of method <NUM> includes releasing the actuator. In response, the actuator automatically returns to the neutral position and the front light turns off.

Step <NUM> of method <NUM> includes rotating the actuator in the first rotational direction from the neutral position, through the first momentary position, to a second momentary position. In response, the front light and a pair of side lights turn on. Optionally, the user may transition the actuator directly to the second momentary position from the first momentary position of step <NUM>, in which case the front light is already on and only the side lights turn on.

Step <NUM> of method <NUM> includes releasing the actuator. In response, the actuator automatically returns to the neutral position and the front light and side lights turns off. In some examples, this automatic return is facilitated by a biasing member, e.g., a spring.

Step <NUM> of method <NUM> includes rotating the actuator in a second rotational direction from the neutral position to a first toggle position. In response, the front light turns on. In the first toggle position, if the actuator is released, the actuator remains stationary, and does not return automatically to the neutral position. Instead, the actuator remains in the first toggle position until acted on by the user.

Step <NUM> of method <NUM> includes rotating the actuator in the second rotational direction from the first toggle position to the second toggle position. In response to transitioning to the second toggle position, the side lights turn on. In the second toggle position, if the actuator is released, the actuator remains stationary, and does not return automatically to the neutral position. Instead, the actuator remains in the second toggle position until acted on by the user.

Step <NUM> of method <NUM> includes rotating the actuator in the first rotational direction from the second toggle position to the first toggle position. In response, the side lights turn off.

Step <NUM> of method <NUM> includes rotating the actuator in the first rotational direction from the first toggle position to the neutral position. In response, the front light turns off.

The different embodiments and examples of the firearm light described herein provide several advantages over known solutions for illuminating areas adjacent a firearm. For example, illustrative embodiments and examples described herein allow tactical advantages in quickly switching the firearm light on and off.

Additionally, and among other benefits, illustrative embodiments and examples described herein allow a user to selectively illuminate an area directly in front of the firearm and/or peripheral areas near the firearm.

Additionally, and among other benefits, illustrative embodiments and examples described herein allow a single gun light to be easily accessible to both right-handed and left-handed users.

Additionally, and among other benefits, illustrative embodiments and examples described herein allow the firearm light to have multiple momentary and toggle positions indicated by a tactile response to the user. In other words, the user is given a haptic sensation (e.g., a mechanical bump or click felt through the actuator) to assist in determining a change between switch positions. This can be very helpful to facilitate choosing among the positions and/or knowing when a position has been achieved, without needing to view the position of the actuator directly.

No known system or device can perform these functions. However, not all embodiments and examples described herein provide the same advantages or the same degree of advantage.

Claim 1:
An illumination device for a firearm <NUM>, the illumination device comprising:
a housing (<NUM>) supporting a front lamp disposed on a front end of the housing, a first side lamp disposed on a first lateral side of the housing, and a second side lamp disposed on a second lateral side of the housing;
a clamp (<NUM>) coupled to the housing (<NUM>) and configured to mount the device to a firearm;
a switch actuator (<NUM>) rotationally coupled to a rear end of the housing (<NUM>), such that the actuator (<NUM>) is manipulable in first and second rotational directions, the actuator extending transversely across a rear end of the housing (<NUM>); and
a cam (<NUM>) coupled to the switch actuator (<NUM>), such that the cam (<NUM>) rotates with the actuator (<NUM>), the cam (<NUM>) having a first end including a magnet (<NUM>) and a second end having a shaped cam surface configured to interface with a cam follower, wherein the actuator and the cam are biased toward a neutral position;
wherein the first end of the cam (<NUM>) is adjacent a plurality of magnetic switches configured to control respective states of the front lamp and the side lamps, such that selective rotation of the cam (<NUM>) causes the magnet (<NUM>) of the cam (<NUM>) to operate one or more of the magnetic switches (152A, 152B, 152C, 152D); and
wherein the shaped cam surface is configured to interact with the cam follower (<NUM>) such that the cam (<NUM>) is transitionable between a plurality of discrete positions including a first toggle position and a second toggle position disposed on the cam (<NUM>) in the first rotational direction from the neutral position, and a first momentary position and a second momentary position disposed on the cam (<NUM>) in the second rotational direction from the neutral position.