Patent ID: 12259107

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Before explaining the disclosed embodiments of the present invention in detail it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its applications to the details of the particular arrangements shown since the invention is capable of other embodiments. Also, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation.

In the Summary above and in the Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments and in the accompanying drawings, reference is made to particular features (including method steps) of the invention. It is to be understood that the disclosure of the invention in this specification does not include all possible combinations of such particular features. For example, where a particular feature is disclosed in the context of a particular aspect or embodiment of the invention, that feature can also be used, to the extent possible, in combination with and/or in the context of other particular aspects and embodiments of the invention, and in the invention generally.

In this section, some embodiments of the invention will be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which preferred embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout, and prime notation is used to indicate similar elements in alternative embodiments.

Other technical advantages may become readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art after review of the following figures and description. It should be understood at the outset that, although exemplary embodiments are illustrated in the figures and described below, the principles of the present disclosure may be implemented using any number of techniques, whether currently known or not. The present disclosure should in no way be limited to the exemplary implementations and techniques illustrated in the drawings and described below.

Unless otherwise specifically noted, articles depicted in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.

A list of components will now be described.1. Printed Circuit Board (PCBA)2. MCU (micro controller)3. Battery4. Illuminated Indicator (LED light emitting diode)5. Solar Panel Wire6. Solar Panel Wall Mount7. Solar Panel8. Adjustable Angle Joint for Solar Panel9. Security Camera10. PCBA Schematic10.1PCBA Schematic with Optional High/Low Switch11. LED light12. Solar Pathway Light Top Part13. Optional High/Low Lumen Setting (Runtime) Switch100Pathway and Landscape Solar Light100A Pathway and Landscape Solar Light with Optional High/Low LumenSetting (Runtime) Switch200Smart Solar Fixture Function Flow Chart (NON-APP VERSION)210Smart Solar Function Flow Chart (APP VERSION)250A,250B,250C Smart APP Version Illustration Examples300Solar Spot Light400Wall Mounted Solar Light500Solar Powered Security Camera600Alternate Solar Powered Security camera
Pathway Solar Light Embodiment100

FIG.1Ais a perspective full exterior view of the solar pathway light embodiment100that can be similar to the pathway lights referenced in the background section of this application. The solar pathway light100can use the printed circuit board (PCBA)1ofFIGS.2A-2D, and2E.FIG.1Bis a perspective partial cut-away view of the solar pathway light ofFIG.1A.FIG.1Cis a top view of the solar pathway light100ofFIG.1A.

FIG.1Dis an underside view of the solar pathway light top part shown inFIG.1Cwith an optional multi setting switch13to control the lumen output of the solar light.FIG.1Dshows a multi setting switch13for the sunlight adequacy indicator.

In addition to the innovative sunlight adequacy indicator, the solar light fixture can be equipped with a user-friendly switch13, enabling customers to adjust the light output according to their needs. This feature can offer two settings: low and high (FIG.1D), or more settings, such as three settings: low, medium, and high, each varying in lumens output and corresponding operational duration.

For example, the solar pathway light100may can be designed to output at approximately 20 lumens when the switch is set on high and approximately 10 lumens when the switch is set on low. This would provide a corresponding run time of approximately 4 to approximately 6 hours when set on high and approximately 8 to approximately 12 hours when set on low under full sunlight charge conditions. Of course, these lumen settings and run times can be varied by a large margin without deviating from the scope of this invention.

For example, the solar spot light300inFIG.3A-3Ccan be designed to output approximately 500 lumens when the switch is set to low and at approximately 250 lumens when the switch is set to high and providing similar run times as described above. The switch can have more than two settings as mentioned above where the solar light can be set for example to approximately lumens, approximately 40 lumens, and approximately 45 lumens, each providing a corresponding operational duration.

Referring toFIGS.1A-1D,2A-2D, and2E, the pathway light100can include a MCU (micro controller)2connected to a battery3and illuminated indicator (LED) light emitting diode4which are part of the PCBA (printed circuit board)1.

FIG.2Eshows a schematic10for the for solar pathway light100. The phototransistor D2is a type of photoelectric device that converts light energy into electrical energy. It is a bipolar transistor that is sensitive to light. When light falls on the base of the transistor, it causes the current to flow between the collector and emitter. Its collector is connected to an approximately 3.3V source, and its emitter is coupled to the pin4(PB3) input of microcontroller (MCU)2. This emitter is also linked to resistor R3, which is in parallel with capacitor C5, both leading to ground. The resistance of the phototransistor increases as the light intensity decreases, thereby reducing the current through the collector and emitter. As the resistance from phototransistor D2increases due to lower sunlight, the voltage at the PB3input pin decreases. Once this voltage decreases below a specific threshold, MCU2detects this change.

In response, MCU2can modulate the output of pin6(PWM3) to control the blinking rate of an LED4. When the sunlight is greater than the specific threshold, the LED is off. When the sunlight is lower than the specific threshold, the LED begins blinking, thereby alerting the user to lower than optimal sunlight conditions.

U2functions as a voltage multiplier circuit. Utilizing an inductor L3and a capacitor C3, it amplifies the battery voltage, B+, from an initial value of around 1.2V to a higher value of 3.3V (enough to illuminate the light source LED11). U1serves as a regulator, managing the energy inputs from the solar panel, denoted as S+. Its primary function is to charge the battery, B+. When exposed to daylight and drawing energy from the solar panel connected to its pins1and2, U1channels this power to pin5, facilitating the charging of battery3. Conversely, during nighttime, U1modulates the output from pin3to illuminate LED1.

FIG.1Ddepicts a bottom perspective view of the solar pathway light's top part shown inFIG.1C, featuring an optional switch13(High/Low Lumen Setting Switch) with dual settings to regulate the solar light's luminosity. This switch allows the user to select between a high and a low light output, for example emitting approximately 20 lumens and approximately 10 lumens respectively. This feature is particularly advantageous for users who wish to extend the light's runtime when the light is positioned in areas with limited sunlight exposure.

FIG.2E.1presents a schematic representation10.1of the pathway light system, designated as100A (FIG.1D), which incorporates an optional switch13. Within the circuitry of U1, there exists a switch13that serves the purpose of diverting current flow between the B+ source and either inductor L1or L2. The variation in inductance between L1and L2controls the current supplied to the LED, consequently resulting in the adjustment of luminous output-offering both higher and lower lumen levels. This luminosity control mechanism subsequently corresponds to varying operational durations.

FIG.2Fis a flow chart for the non-App version200of the invention.

Referring toFIGS.1A-1C,2A-2F, the core functionality201of the solar light fixture's sunlight adequacy indicator is governed by an embedded microcontroller2(MCU). This MCU2is interfaced with an analog input that is directly connected to monitor the ambient light levels from the phototransistor D2circuit described above (light detection circuit). Alternately, the solar panel could be used to detect the light intensity and be used as the input to the MCU. Under standard operating conditions, with adequate sunlight, the light detection circuit produces a characteristic voltage output.

The MCU2can be programmed to recognize this optimal voltage level and continuously compare it against the real-time voltage output of the light detection circuit. If the monitored voltage output falls below a predetermined threshold, in this instance, approximately 50% of the typical output under sunny conditions, the MCU2activates a specific output channel connected to an LED4. This results in the LED4flashing204, thereby providing a clear and immediate visual indication to the user that the current physical installation location of the solar light fixture is experiencing suboptimal sunlight conditions.

Through this mechanism, the user is empowered to make informed decisions about relocating the fixture to ensure maximum energy absorption and efficient operation. When there is no flashing (no blinking light), the location of the solar light fixture can be considered acceptable.

In this particular embodiment, the LED4may be turned on for approximately 0.3 seconds and then off for approximately 0.7 seconds, thereby resulting in a visual indication once a second.

The advantage of this is two-fold. The blinking light4will get the user's attention and the illuminating for approximately 0.3 seconds every second will result in less power consumption, which is an advantage for solar powered devices. Since the LED light4comes on in response to an inadequate location for installation, the preferred color of the LED4is red. However, other colors such as yellow, green, white, and the like can be used without deviating from the scope of this invention. While not preferred, the logic of the circuit could be reversed so that the LED4turns on in response to being place in an optimal location for installation and in such case, the LED4could be a different color, such as a green color.

While a flashing light4is described above for the notification, other indicators may be used, such as an audible alarm, without deviating from the scope of this invention.

For the solar pathway light,100, the fixture is always perpendicular to the ground. However, the solar spot light300, may be positioned at different angles to light up the intended target and the adjustable solar panel may be positioned towards the sunlight for a more optimal position while observing the solar adequacy indicator.

The user may position the solar light fixture, designated as100, at a preferred location within the yard. By monitoring the fixture's solar adequacy sensor, the user can assess the adequacy of sunlight at the chosen spot. A flashing light from the sensor suggests inadequate sunlight exposure. In response, the user might opt to shift the fixture to a location with better sunlight until the flashing stops, indicating an optimal position. Alternatively, if the user wishes to maintain the fixture at the initially selected location, they can modify the runtime switch to a setting that provides a less intense illumination but prolongs the light's duration. In this section we use the term “Runtime” switch whereas in the previous sections, we used the term Hi/Low switch.

Solar light fixture100could be modified with a remote solar panel7and wiring5as showing inFIG.5A. This would allow the solar panel to be positioned for optimal sunlight collection.

FIG.2Gis a flow chart for the Smart Phone App version210of the invention. Component211corresponds to201, component212corresponds to202, component213corresponds to203, component214corresponds to204.

Once the device detects that it is placed in a lower than optimal location, it can activate the blinking light to indicate a low light condition,214, notify the user via the smart app of this low light condition215, and show via the smart app the daily charging rate and battery capacity216.

In further embodiments of the invention, the solar light fixtures100,200,300,400,500,600can be enhanced with Bluetooth communication capabilities, allowing it to seamlessly interface with a dedicated smartphone app11A-11C. This app11A-11C serves as an advanced interface for users to gain insights into the sunlight exposure of their solar light fixture100,300,400and solar security camera500,600. Upon establishing a Bluetooth connection between the solar light100,200,300/camera500,600and the smartphone, the app11A-11C retrieves data stored by the MCU pertaining to the amount of sunlight received over specific intervals.

This data is then processed and presented in the form of a graphical representation, showcasing the solar irradiance over time. For instance, users can view a daily breakdown of sunlight exposure, visualized as a graph, for the past week. This not only provides a real-time indication of the current sunlight quality but also offers a historical perspective, allowing users to understand patterns and make informed decisions about the placement of their solar light fixture. The integration of this app-based interface elevates the user experience, offering a more comprehensive understanding of the device's performance and environmental conditions.

FIG.2His a view of the App screen250A showing the various solar lights equipped with this invention. Within this section of the App, customers are able to add or remove solar lights (and solar security cameras), and make selections for accessing detailed information. Upon selection, App screen250B is displayed, providing comprehensive performance data pertinent to the chosen device. For instance,FIG.2Ishowcases a screen dedicated to a solar pathway light, presenting critical insights such as the daily charge rate represented as a percentage and a performance summary with recommendations regarding usage. For instance, if the fixture is not receiving adequate sunlight, the App can suggest repositioning it or adjusting its runtime settings if equipped with the selector switch.

FIG.2Iis a view of the App screen250B showing the performance screen for a selected solar light equipped with this invention.

The smart app platform offers performance features that are indicated in several different ways to assist the end user of the product to get the most efficient solar light experience possible out of their unit. The three ways of keeping track of your solar lights efficiency are indicated in the app interface as daily charge rate, average charge rate and current battery charge percentage. These three features will notify the user via the app whether or not their solar light is performing well in its current location outside.

The daily charge rate feature can be displayed as a graph with every day in the week along with percentage rates indicating on that specific day how much your fixture batteries were charged. For example, if the graph shows approximately 80% on Monday that equates to your batteries being charged at approximately 80% of their capacity.

The average charge rate feature is displayed as a percentage indicating the average rate of charge your solar light batteries are receiving over the span of one week. For example, this percentage will equate to 7 full days of operation Monday through Sunday and indicate to the user the average charge over a weeks period of time 0 out of 100%.

The battery charge feature simply advises the user via the app interface the real time percentage of how much the battery is charged at any point in time.

FIG.2Jis a view of the App screen250C showing notifications related to performance deficiencies for a particular solar light equipped with this invention. When the solar pathway light experiences sub-optimal performance, the App can present a notification screen, as seen inFIG.2J, with recommendations regarding usage as described above.

Solar Spot Light300

FIG.3Ais a perspective view of a solar spot light embodiment300of the invention.FIG.3Bis a side view of the solar spot light embodiment300ofFIG.3A.FIG.3Cis a partial cut-away view of the solar spot light embodiment300ofFIG.3A. The spot light embodiment300can include prior art features found in U.S. Pat. No. 6,764,197 to Zemar, which is incorporated by reference.

Referring toFIGS.3A-3C, the spot light embodiment300can include the illuminated LED (light emitting diode) indicator4on a pivotable solar panel with MCU2, battery3and directional LED (light emitting diode) spot light11. An adjustable angle joint8on a ground engaging stake can be used to adjust the direction of the spot light11.

The position of the spot light and solar panel can ‘be adjusted independently to allow the user to point the light at the intended target and independently position the solar panel for a more optimal position to collect power from the sunlight.

Wall Mounted Solar Light400

FIG.4Ais a perspective view of a solar wall mounted light embodiment400of the invention.FIG.4Bis a front view of the solar mounted light embodiment400ofFIG.4A.FIG.4Cis a side view of the solar mounted light embodiment400ofFIG.4A.FIG.4Dis a partial cut-away view of the solar mounted light embodiment400ofFIG.4A.

The solar mounted light embodiment400can include components such as those referenced in U.S. Pat. No. 5,217,296 to Tanner, which is incorporated by reference.

The user can mount the solar light fixture, identified as400, at a desired spot on the wall by mount6. By observing the integrated solar adequacy sensor on this fixture, the user can gauge the sunlight's effectiveness at that particular location. If the sensor produces a flashing signal, it denotes insufficient sunlight. Given this feedback, the user may contemplate relocating the fixture to a wall spot receiving enhanced sunlight, with the cessation of flashing indicating a more suitable placement. However, if the user is inclined to keep the fixture in its original position, an adjustment can be made to the runtime switch, enabling a mode with dimmer light output but an extended illumination period.

Solar Powered Security Camera500

FIG.5Ashows a perspective view of a wall mounted security camera embodiment500.FIG.5Bshows a perspective view of a wall mounted security camera embodiment500ofFIG.5A.FIG.5Cshows a front view of a wall mounted security camera embodiment500ofFIG.5A.

The user can mount the security camera9in the desired location and then position the solar panel7in a separate location. By observing the integrated solar adequacy sensor on this fixture, the user can gauge the sunlight's effectiveness at that particular location. If the sensor produces a flashing signal, it denotes insufficient sunlight. Given this feedback, the user may contemplate relocating the fixture to a wall spot receiving enhanced sunlight, with the cessation of flashing indicating a more suitable placement.

The solar panel may also be repositioned using the adjustable angle joint8to further optimize the position of the panel relative to the sunlight.

The security camera with solar panel can be similar to the camera and solar panel, shown and described in U.S. Published Patent Application 2002/0167587 to Ogasawara, which is incorporated by reference, which is shown using the invention inFIG.6.

Referring toFIGS.6, a SOLAR POWERED SECURITY CAMERA600can include a solar panel wall mount6with an adjustable angle joint8for the solar panel7, with an illuminated indicator LED (light emitting diode)4.

The user can mount the security camera9in the desired location and position the solar panel7via adjustable angle joint8for an optimal position relative to the sunlight. By observing the integrated solar adequacy sensor on this fixture, the user can gauge the sunlight's effectiveness at that particular location. If the sensor produces a flashing signal, it denotes insufficient sunlight. Given this feedback, the user may contemplate relocating the fixture to a wall spot receiving enhanced sunlight, with the cessation of flashing indicating a more suitable placement.

Normal operation in high sunlight locations is 8 hours of light output with the runtime switch set to the high lumen output setting. The user can also get 8 hours versus 4 hours in low sunlight locations with the switch set to low lumen output. OR 16 hours versus 8 hours in high sunlight locations with the switch set to low lumen output.

This adjustable feature, coupled with the sunlight adequacy indicator, empowers users to optimize the light's performance based on real-time sunlight conditions. For instance, if the indicator signals suboptimal sunlight exposure, users can conveniently switch to the low light output setting, thereby maximizing the operational duration of the light even in locations with lower sunlight availability.

This synergy between adjustable light output and real-time sunlight monitoring significantly enhances the user experience and the overall efficiency of the solar light fixture.

With the solar panel, the solar panel can provide the power to the blinking light even in low battery conditions.

While the preferred embodiments describe a flashing LED light indicator4as a visual meter indicator, the indicator can include an audio indicator, such as but not limited to a beeping sound, noise, and the like.

While adjustment mechanisms in the embodiments disclose pivotable joints, the adjustment mechanisms can include additional mechanisms, such as but not limited to hinges, ball in socket mechanisms, bendable spring arms, and the like.

The term “approximately”/“approximate” can be +/−10% of the amount referenced. Additionally, preferred amounts and ranges can include the amounts and ranges referenced without the prefix of being approximately.

Although specific advantages have been enumerated above, various embodiments may include some, none, or all of the enumerated advantages.

Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the systems, apparatuses, and methods described herein without departing from the scope of the disclosure. For example, the components of the systems and apparatuses may be integrated or separated. Moreover, the operations of the systems and apparatuses disclosed herein may be performed by more, fewer, or other components and the methods described may include more, fewer, or other steps. Additionally, steps may be performed in any suitable order. As used in this document, “each” refers to each member of a set or each member of a subset of a set.

To aid the Patent Office and any readers of any patent issued on this application in interpreting the claims appended hereto, applicants wish to note that they do not intend any of the appended claims or claim elements to invoke 35 U.S.C. 112(f) unless the words “means for” or “step for” are explicitly used in the particular claim.

While the invention has been described, disclosed, illustrated and shown in various terms of certain embodiments or modifications which it has presumed in practice, the scope of the invention is not intended to be, nor should it be deemed to be, limited thereby and such other modifications or embodiments as may be suggested by the teachings herein are particularly reserved especially as they fall within the breadth and scope of the claims here appended.