CN111278681A - Portable lantern with multiple operating modes - Google Patents

Abstract

Portable lantern lamps are configured to operate in a series of selectable operating modes to provide flexible lighting solutions in both stationary and portable situations. A lantern includes an elongated central body having a plurality of outer longitudinal ribs, a longitudinal channel between a pair of the outer ribs, a lighting element positioned within the channel, and a lens overlying the lighting element that serves as the primary optic. A power source including a battery compartment is removably insertable into the receptacle of the central body. The lantern includes an operating mode selector assembly for controlling which lighting elements are illuminated during operation of the portable lantern, and a luminosity selector assembly that selectively controls the lumen output (brightness) of the lighting elements. The lantern also includes a retractable stabilizing assembly that can be deployed to stabilize the lantern on a support surface.

Description

Portable lantern with multiple operating modes

Cross Reference to Related Applications

This application claims the benefit of provisional patent application No. 62/549,247 filed on 2017, 8/23 and provisional patent application No. 29/614,796 filed on 2017, 8/23, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety and made a part hereof.

Federally sponsored research or development

N/A

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to portable lantern lamps with a central battery having multiple modes of operation and multiple mounting configurations. In particular, portable lantern lamps include one or more lighting elements that are selectively operable in a plurality of modes.

Background

Existing lighting products are capable of a wide range of indoor, outdoor and nighttime activities. Electronic lighting is typically provided from a fixture (e.g., a roof, wall, or ceiling) in which a light source receives power from a fixed and wired power source. Such lighting is useful in illuminating a particular area, but lacks the flexibility of a portable light source. Internally powered portable light sources have been developed to provide illumination in different locations and situations. However, such internally powered portable light sources are not optimized for size, durability, form factor, lighting flexibility, and installation flexibility parameters. In addition, portable light sources are also not optimized to provide illumination at fixed and varying locations.

Accordingly, there is an unmet need for a portable lamp optimized for durability and providing multiple lighting modes and mounting configurations. A full discussion of the features and advantages of the present invention is provided with reference to the following detailed description, which proceeds with reference to the accompanying figures.

Disclosure of Invention

In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a portable lantern featuring a plurality of lighting elements, an internal power source, a mode selector for selecting between various operating modes, a luminosity selector for selecting between various lighting element brightness levels, a magnet, a securing member that can be selectively positioned in a variety of configurations, and a retractable stabilizing assembly.

Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the following drawings.

Drawings

The drawings depict one or more embodiments in accordance with the present teachings, by way of example only, not by way of limitation. In the drawings, like reference numerals designate identical or similar elements.

FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a first embodiment of a portable light, showing a stabilizing assembly in a retracted position and a securing member in an extended position.

FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of the portable light source of FIG. 1 with the portable light resting on a support surface and the stabilizing assembly and securing member in the deployed position.

FIG. 3 is a bottom perspective view of the portable light of FIG. 1 with the stabilizing assembly and the securing member in a retracted position.

FIG. 4 is a front view of the portable light of FIG. 1 with the stabilizing assembly and the securing member in retracted positions.

FIG. 5 is a rear view of the portable light of FIG. 1 with the stabilizing assembly and the securing member in retracted positions.

FIG. 6 is a top view of the portable light of FIG. 1 with the stabilizing assembly and the securing member both in a retracted position.

Fig. 7 is a bottom view of the portable light of fig. 1 with the stabilizing assembly and the securing member in retracted positions.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the portable light of FIG. 1, with the portable light in a partially disassembled state.

Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the portable light of fig. 1 taken along line 9-9 shown in fig. 4.

Fig. 9A is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the first end assembly of the portable light of fig. 1 taken along line 9-9 shown in fig. 4.

Fig. 10 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the portable light shown in fig. 1 taken along line 10-10 of fig. 4.

Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 11-11 of fig. 4, in perspective, of the portable light shown in fig. 1.

Fig. 12 is a block diagram of circuitry in the portable lamp of fig. 1.

Fig. 13 is an exploded view of the portable light shown in fig. 1.

FIG. 14 is a top perspective view of the second embodiment of the portable light, showing the securing assembly in a retracted position.

FIG. 15 is a bottom perspective view of the portable light of FIG. 14 with the securing assembly in a retracted position.

Fig. 16 is a front view of the portable light of fig. 14 with the securing assembly in a retracted position.

Fig. 17 is a rear view of the portable light of fig. 14 with the securing assembly in a retracted position.

FIG. 18 is a bottom view of the portable light of FIG. 14 with the securing assembly in a retracted position.

Fig. 19 is a top view of the portable light of fig. 14 with the securing assembly in a retracted position.

FIG. 20 is a bottom perspective view of the portable light of FIG. 14, showing the securing assembly in a deployed position.

FIG. 21 is a top view of the portable light of FIG. 14 with the fixed assembly in a retracted position, the mode selector in a first position, and a single illumination element in an illuminated state.

FIG. 22 is a top view of the portable light source of FIG. 14 with the securing assembly in a retracted position, the mode selector in a fourth position, and all four illumination elements in an illuminated state.

FIG. 23 is a top perspective view of a third embodiment of a portable light, showing the stabilizing assembly in a retracted position and the securing member in a retracted position.

FIG. 24 is a bottom perspective view of the portable light shown in FIG. 23, showing the stabilizing assembly in a retracted position and the securing member in an extended position.

Fig. 25 is a front view of the portable light source shown in fig. 23 with the fixation member in a deployed position.

Fig. 26 is a perspective view of a power supply for use with the portable lamp shown in embodiments 1-3.

Fig. 27 is a block diagram of the power supply and the circuitry in the portable lamp of embodiments 1-3 in a first orientation.

Fig. 28 is a block diagram of the power supply and the circuit in the portable lamp of embodiments 1-3 in a second orientation.

While the invention will be described in conjunction with the preferred embodiments illustrated herein, it will be understood that they are not intended to limit the invention to those embodiments. On the contrary, the invention is intended to cover alternatives, modifications and equivalents, which may be included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Detailed Description

While this disclosure includes many details and embodiments in many different forms, there is shown in the drawings and will herein be described in detail specific embodiments, with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the principles of the disclosed methods and systems and is not intended to limit the broad aspect of the disclosed concepts to the embodiments illustrated.

As shown and explained below, the portable light orlantern 10 has a variety of brightness or luminosity settings and different modes of operation, both of which are independently selectable by the user. Theportable light 10 may be carried or mounted using a variety of mounting configurations (e.g., on a flat support surface 44) to provide a flexible lighting solution to a user. The multiple modes of operation and multiple mounting configurations provide greater flexibility and greater utility for theportable light 10 as compared to conventional lanterns or flashlights.

Referring to the drawings, aportable light 10 includes: (i)luminosity selector assembly 28, (ii) operatingmode selector assembly 32, (iii) a plurality oflighting elements 100, (iv) apower source 134 disposed betweenlighting elements 100, and (v) a retractable stabilizingassembly 192. As discussed in more detail below, theluminosity selector assembly 28 and themode selector assembly 32 allow a user to independently change the operating mode of theportable lamp 10 as well as the brightness or lumen output level. Theseassemblies 28, 32 operate independently of each other, wherein the user: (i) selecting at least onelighting element 100 for illumination usingmode selector assembly 32, and (ii) movingluminosity selector assembly 28 from an "off" position to an "on" position. In particular, theluminosity selector assembly 28 allows a user to set the brightness or lumen output level of thelighting element 100 such that theluminosity selector assembly 28 functions as a dimmer for theportable lamp 10. This dimming function allows the user to select a brightness level or lumens output from theportable lamp 10 that is between a first predetermined minimum level and a second predetermined maximum level. Themode selector assembly 32 allows a user to select the mode of operation of theportable lamp 10. In particular,mode selector assembly 32 allows a user to select the number oflighting elements 100 to be illuminated. For example, a user may select one or more of thelighting elements 100 to illuminate.

As shown generally in fig. 8-11,portable light 10 also has apower source 134, withpower source 134 being disposed withinintermediate portion 22 and thus located radially inward oflighting element 100. Thepower source 134 may be a combination of battery removablenon-rechargeable batteries 278 disposed within thebattery compartment 250. As discussed in more detail below, the configuration of thepower supply 134 allows it to supply power to theportable light 10 regardless of the direction in which thepower supply 134 is inserted into theportable light 10.

Theportable light 10 also has a variety of mounting configurations for use in different environments and different conditions. For example, the user may move the securingmember 30 to the deployedposition 214, as best shown in fig. 1 and 2, wherein the user may then hang theportable light 10 via the deployed securingmember 30 on an object or securing device (e.g., a hook) disposed above theportable light 10. Second, the user may releasably attach themagnet 190 located within thelower end 18 to a magnetic surface or object. Thus, theportable light 10 will be magnetically mounted to a selected magnetic surface or object in any orientation (e.g., to a metal surface of a tool box or vehicle). Third, the user may place thebottom surface 199 of theportable light 10 on thesurface support surface 44 and deploy the retractable stabilizing assembly 192 (see fig. 2). Fourth, a user may manually carry theportable light 10 between locations for portable lighting, serving as a flashlight or lantern.

In the embodiment of fig. 1-12, theportable light 10 has an elongated configuration with afirst end assembly 24 operatively connected to thefirst end 14 of theportable light 10. Thefirst end assembly 24 allows a user to change the operating mode of theportable light 10 and the brightness of the light by changing the position of theluminosity selector assembly 28 and themode selector assembly 32. Referring to fig. 1-5, thefirst end assembly 24 includes: (i) a top orupper housing 26, (ii) aluminosity selector assembly 28, (iii) a securingmember 30, (iv) amode selector assembly 32, and (v) aconnector ring 34, 36.Upper housing 26 has anend wall 38, withend wall 38 recessed inwardly from anouter rim 40 to form arecess 42. Portions ofluminosity selector assembly 28 are located withinrecess 42. Referring to fig. 9, theluminosity selector assembly 28 preferably does not extend beyond theouter edge 40, which helps to protect theluminosity selector assembly 28 from contact with thesupport surface 44 when the user drops or knocks down theportable lamp 10. Additionally, if therim 40 is placed in contact with thesupport surface 44, this configuration allows therim 40 to contact thesupport surface 44 without being interrupted by theluminosity selector assembly 28, which in turn stabilizes theportable lamp 10.

As described above, theluminosity selector assembly 28 serves as a dimmer for theportable lamp 10. This dimming function allows the user to select a brightness level or lumens output fromlighting element 100 between a first predetermined minimum level (e.g., 20 lumens) and a second predetermined maximum level (3,000 lumens). In the embodiment of the drawings, theluminosity selector assembly 28 is a rotary dial 46, which includes: (i) acover 48, (ii) aselector 50, (iii) an O-ring 52, and (iv) a luminosity printed circuit board ("PCB") 54. Referring to fig. 9 and 13, thecap 48 includes aflange 56 and atab 58 extending radially from theflange 56. Thecover 48 is configured such that thetabs 58 extend throughapertures 60 formed in theend wall 38, while theflange 56 resides beneath theend wall 38 or within theend wall 38. This configuration helps to ensure that thecover 48 will not be removed from theportable light 10 when an upward force is applied to thecover 48. O-ring 52 is located betweenflange 56 andend wall 38, which helps to ensure smooth operation of rotary dial 46 and protects internal electronics from external moisture.

Thecover 48 is operatively coupled to aselector 50, whichselector 50 is in turn operatively coupled to aluminosity PCB 54. Thus, when the user rotates thecap 48, theselector 50 also rotates. This angular movement of thecover 48 and theselector 50 changes the state of the luminosity PCB54, which in turn changes the current that may be applied to thelighting element 100 during operation of thelamp 10. This change in current changes the lumen output of thelighting element 100. For example, the rotary dial 46 may be rotated counterclockwise until stopped. In this "off" position, luminosity PCB54 applies zero current tolighting element 100. As rotary dial 46 is rotated in a clockwise direction from the "off" position, luminosity PCB54 allows a greater amount of current to be applied tolighting element 100. This in turn increases the possible lumen output of the lighting element 100 (assuming themode selector assembly 32 is not in the "off" position).

In some embodiments (see fig. 14 and 19), rotating dial 46 may include dialgrooves 61 or another textured surface to enhance a user's grip when rotating dial 46. In alternative embodiments,luminosity selector assembly 28 may have a plurality of predetermined lumen output levels. For example, theluminosity selector assembly 28 may be disposed in a first or "off" position, a second or "low" position, a third or "medium" position, and a fourth or "high" position. It should be appreciated that theluminosity selector assembly 28 may have other mechanical or electrical configurations, which may further improve its ability to function as a dimmer for theportable lamp 10.

It should be appreciated thatluminosity selector assembly 28 may be configured to be replaced with an assembly of one or more buttons, switches, sliders, local sensors (e.g., motion, light, sound, heat, motion), or other types of electrical selection devices. In one embodiment, the rotary dial 46 and its associated circuitry may be replaced by a button and necessary circuitry to allow the user to light up or "turn on" theportable light 10 when the button is pressed, and not light up or turn off theportable light 10 when the button is pressed again after theportable light 10 is in a lit state. In another alternative embodiment, the rotary dial 46 and its associated circuitry may be replaced by buttons and necessary circuitry to allow the user to: (i) a first press of the button to illuminate or "turn on" theportable light 10; (ii) (ii) hold the button to illuminate and adjust the brightness of theportable light 10, or (iii) press the button again after theportable light 10 is illuminated to not illuminate or "turn off" the light 10. Additionally, theluminosity selector assembly 28 may be located remotely from theportable light 10. For example, theluminosity selector component 28 may be located on a remote wireless device, such as the remote device described in U.S. patent application 15/812,852 filed 5/17/2018, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Another example of a remote wireless device includes a cell phone, laptop, RF remote control, or other device (e.g., wireless camera, motion sensor, light sensor, timer, etc.) that connects to theportable lamp 10 via the internet.

As best shown in fig. 1 and 6, aluminosity indicator 62 may be provided on theend wall 38 orluminosity selector assembly 28. Theluminosity indicator 62 contains visual information, including shapes, letters, or numbers, for informing the user about the operation of theluminosity selector assembly 28. In some embodiments, as exemplarily shown in fig. 6, theluminosity indicator 62 includes the word "off" 64 indicating zero luminosity and a visual image indicating gradually increasingluminosity 66. In other embodiments,luminosity indicator 62 may have multiple words (e.g., "off," "low," "medium," and "high"), may be made of a reflective material, may be a light emitting diode or TFT display.

Theupper housing 26 also contains components that help position and secure the electrical components of theportable lamp 10 within thefirst end assembly 24. As best shown in fig. 1, 9 and 13, theupper housing 26 further includes: (i) thenotch 68, (ii) the mode selector bore 70, (iii) the first set ofinternal threads 72, (iv) the second set ofinternal threads 74, (v) the first set ofexternal threads 76, and (vi) theupper flange 78. Thenotch 68 accommodates a range of O-rings 80, the O-rings 80 being located between theupper housing 26 and amode selector ring 82 of the mode selector. This configuration helps maintain the spacing between themode selector ring 82 and the outer surface of theupper housing 26 to ensure smooth operation of themode selector ring 82. The first set ofinternal threads 72 have an inner diameter that is less than an inner diameter of the second set ofthreads 74, wherein the first set ofinternal threads 72 are configured to receive a degree of luminosity PCB54 and amode selector PCB 84. This configuration allows for quick assembly of theportable lamp 10 and replacement of either the luminosity PCB54 or the mode selector PCB84 (if one of these PCBs is damaged). The first set ofexternal threads 76 are configured to receive theinternal threads 75 of the connector rings 34, 36. As will be described in more detail below, the mode selector PCB84 helps control whichlighting elements 100 are illuminated.

Thefirst end assembly 24 also includes afirst spacer 86 and asecond spacer 88 that are positioned adjacent to the luminosity PCB54 or themode selector PCB 84. Thesespacers 86, 88 allow: (i) including the gap between the moving parts within thefirst end assembly 24 and (ii) the circuit components (e.g., capacitors, resistors, microprocessors, etc.) operatively coupled to thePCBs 54, 84. Specifically, the first andsecond shims 86, 88 extend only partially around the perimeter of the mode selector PCB84 to ensure that they do not interfere with the moving components of thefirst end assembly 24. The first andsecond shims 86, 88 also have aprotrusion 90 that aligns with a recess formed in the interior of thefirst end assembly 24. Thesetabs 90 help ensure proper positioning of thePCBs 54, 84 and other components within thefirst end assembly 24.

Themode selector assembly 32 allows a user to select the mode of operation of theportable lamp 10. In particular, themode selector assembly 32 allows a user to select one of thelighting elements 100 for illumination or a plurality of thelighting elements 100 for illumination. The selection is performed by angularly displacing themode selector 32 about the central axis a-a. Referring to fig. 9 and 13, themode selector assembly 32 includes: (i)mode selector ring 82, (ii) mode selector PCB84, (iii)mode selector hole 70, (iv)mode selector arm 92, (v)screw 94, (vi)spring 96 and (vii)ball 98. Themode selector ring 82 is slidably coupled to the upper housing and circumscribes aportion 102 of theupper housing 26. In particular, themode selector ring 82 is positioned between theupper flange 78 of theupper housing 26 and thefirst connector ring 34. Themode selector ring 82 is configured to be angularly displaced relative to theupper housing 26. As shown in fig. 1-5, themode selector ring 82 may have a textured or knurled (e.g., slits, angled or intersecting lines)engagement surface 106 and a substantially flat secondaryexterior surface 104. A textured orknurled surface 106 may be included to enhance the grip of the user when rotating themode selector ring 82. It should be understood that the textured or knurled surface 106 (see fig. 23-25) may be omitted or may be reduced in size. The secondaryexterior surface 104 may include aselection indicator 108 to indicate which illumination mode has been selected.

During operation, a user aligns theselection indicator 108 with anillumination pattern indicia 110 disposed on the side of theupper flange 78. Specifically, mode flags 110 may include "off" 110a, "I" 110b, "II" 110c, "III" 110d, and "IV" 110 e. Theupper flange 78 does not move relative to themode selector ring 82. Thus, application of an angular force on themode selector ring 82 relative to theupper flange 78 causes theselection indicator 108 to move relative to themode indicia 110. It should be noted that themode selector ring 82 may only need to be angularly displaced approximately 100 degrees to move themode selector ring 82 from the first or "off" position to the final or fully open position. However, it should be understood that other degrees of angular displacement between modes of operation may be selected (e.g., 5 to 360 degrees).

Themode selector ring 82 also has a substantially smoothinner surface 111, with arecess 112 formed in theinner surface 111. Themode selector arm 92 is coupled to the center of the mode selector PCB84 by ascrew 94 and is configured to extend through themode selector aperture 70 and into the confines of arecess 112 formed in aninner surface 111 of themode selector ring 82. Thespring 96 andball 98 are configured to be positioned between themode selector arm 92 and themode selector PCB 84. Theball 98 is configured to be positioned within a pocket 114 formed in themode selector PCB 84. During operation, a user may exert an angular force on themode selector ring 82 to move theselection indicator 108 away from themode indicia 110 a. This clockwise angular force exerts pressure on theball 98 causing theball 98 to exert downward pressure on thespring 96, which allows theball 98 to move out of thepocket 114a formed in themode selector PCB 84. Theball 98 then slides radially along the mode selector PCB84 while remaining in contact therewith. Once the user has moved themode selector ring 82 to the point where theselection indicator 108 is aligned with themode indicia 110b, theball 98 is pushed by thespring 96 into adifferent pocket 114b formed in themode selector PCB 84. Once theball 98 contacts the different dimples 114, the mode of operation of theportable light 10 is changed. Additional details regarding the operation of themode selector assembly 32 will be discussed in greater detail below.

It should be appreciated that themode selector assembly 32 may be configured to be replaced with one or more buttons, switches, sliders, local sensors (e.g., motion, light, sound, heat, motion), or other types of electrical selection device components. In one embodiment, themode selector ring 82 and its associated circuitry may be replaced by buttons and necessary circuitry to allow the user to select the desired mode of operation by pressing the buttons a predetermined number of times. For example, the user: (i) the button may be pressed once to "turn on"lighting element 100, (ii) the button may be pressed twice to turn on two oflighting elements 100, or (iii) the button may be pressed five times to "turn off"lighting element 100. In addition, theluminosity selector assembly 28 may be located remotely from theportable lamp 10. For example, theluminosity selector assembly 28 may be located on a remote wireless device, such as the remote device described in U.S. patent application 15/812,852 filed 5/17/2018, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Another example of a remote wireless device includes a cell phone, laptop, RF remote control, or other device (e.g., wireless camera, motion sensor, light sensor, timer, etc.) that connects to theportable lamp 10 via the internet.

As best shown in fig. 9, thelighting element holder 118 electrically couples thelighting element 100 to thefirst power PCB 124. Thelighting element holder 118 comprises substantiallystraight portions 120, which are connected to each other byangled projections 122.Angled tabs 122 extend above and below the substantiallystraight portion 120. The top extension of theangled protrusion 122 defines a receptacle that receives a range of retaining rings 116. This configuration centers thelighting element holder 118 in the middle of theportable lamp 10. Theangled protrusion 122 operatively couples the first power PCB124 to thelighting element 100 by applying pressure to an extent of the outer surface of thelighting element 100. The coupling of the first power PCB124 to the lighting elements will be described in more detail below.

The first power PCB124 is configured to electrically couple thelighting element 100 with: (i) apower supply 134, (ii) a first power supply PCB124, (iii) a mode selector PCB84, (iv) a light emitting PCB54, and (v) other circuit components. Referring to fig. 9, the first power PCB124 includes atop surface 126 and abottom surface 128. Thetop surface 126 includes surface mounted circuitry such as resistors, capacitors, and the like. Thebottom surface 128 of the first power PCB124 includes power contacts made of a conductive material and configured to contact thepower source 134. In particular, the power contact comprises two separate contacts coplanar with each other, wherein thefirst contact 123 is a small disc, located in the center of theportable lamp 10, and thesecond contact 125 is a ring surrounding thefirst contact 123. As will be discussed in more detail below, thefirst contact 123 is configured to receive a positive charge from thepower source 134 when thesecond contact 125 is configured to receive a negative charge from thepower source 134. It should be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, thefirst contact 123 may receive a negative charge from thepower source 134, while thesecond contact 125 may receive a positive charge from thepower source 134. Furthermore, the configuration of the contacts forming the power contacts may include other configurations, such as contacts placed side-by-side or contacts located at different heights compared to each other.

The first power PCB124 also includes atab 132 andPCB lighting contacts 130 disposed on the sides of thefirst power PCB 124. Thetab 132 extends radially outward from the first power PCB124 and includes ahole 138 formed therethrough. Theaperture 138 is configured to receive a portion of theintermediate portion 22 of theportable light 10. ThePCB lighting contacts 130 are formed between theprotrusions 132. This arrangement of theprojections 132 andapertures 138 helps to ensure that thePCB lighting contacts 130 are properly aligned with theintermediate portion 22. Specifically,lighting element 100 haslighting element contacts 129 disposed on arear surface 136 oflighting element 100. When theportable light 10 is assembled, thelighting element contacts 129 are located adjacent to thePCB lighting contacts 130. The positional relationship between thelighting element contacts 129 and thePCB lighting contacts 130 is maintained by an inwardly directed force applied to the outer surface of thelighting element 100 by thelighting element holder 118. It should be understood that other methods, such as soldering a wire to each contact, may be used to operativelycouple lighting element 100 withfirst power PCB 124.

Referring to fig. 1, 9-11, and 13, themiddle portion 22 of theportable light 10 includes a middle ormiddle housing 140 and one ormore lighting elements 100. Theintermediate housing 140 extends between thefirst end assembly 24 and thesecond end assembly 142. Themiddle case 140 includes: (i) acentral body 144 having afirst end 146 and asecond end 148, (ii) a plurality ofouter ribs 150 radially from thecentral body 144 and along a length L of thecentral body 144_CBLongitudinally extending, (iii) a plurality ofchannels 158 extending transversely between the pair ofribs 150 and along the length L of thecentral body 144_CBLongitudinally extending, (iv) a set ofprojections 151 extending from thefirst end 146 of thecentral body 144, and (v) a set ofrecesses 152 located near thesecond end 148 of thecentral body 144. Preferably, theprojections 151 are angularly aligned with the ribs 150 (see fig. 13) such that theprojections 151 extend longitudinally from theribs 150. Thecentral body 144 has an elongated, substantially cylindrical configuration, wherein the length L of the central body 144_CB(see fig. 9) substantially exceeds the width of thecentral body 144. It should be understood that in other embodiments, thecentral body 144 may have alternative configurations, such as triangular prisms, rectangular prisms, cubes, pentagonal prisms, hexagonal prisms, octagonal prisms, spheres, cones, tetrahedrons, cuboids, dodecahedrons, icosahedrons, toroids, octahedrons, ellipsoids, or any other similar shape.

Thecentral body 144 is configured to be operably coupled to thefirst end assembly 24 and thesecond end assembly 142. Specifically, theexternal threads 154 formed in theprotrusion 151 of thecentral body 144 are configured to be received by the second set ofinternal threads 74 formed in theupper housing 26; thereby operatively coupling thefirst end assembly 24 to theintermediate housing 140. Theexternal threads 196 formed in therecess 152 of thecenter body 144 are configured to be received by a set ofinternal threads 194 formed in thebase connector 184; thereby operatively coupling thesecond end assembly 142 to theintermediate housing 140.

Areceptacle 153 is formed within thecentral body 144 and is configured to receive at least a majority of thepower source 134, and preferably theentire power source 134. In the embodiment of the figures, including fig. 9 and 10, thepower source 134 is fully contained within thereceptacle 153, with thepower source 134 radially inward from: (i) acentral body 144, (ii) a plurality ofouter ribs 150, (iii) a plurality of channels formed between theribs 150, and (iv) alighting element 100. In other words, thereceptacle 153 is configured to surround thepower supply 134, which in turn positions thepower supply 134 substantially in the center of theportable light 10.

A plurality ofouter ribs 150 extend radially outward from thecentral body 144 and along the length L of thecentral body 144_CBExtending longitudinally. As shown in FIG. 10, thecentral body 144 has an inner diameter and an outer diameter that is less than the outer diameter defined by theouter surfaces 176 of the plurality ofribs 150. Eachrib 150 includes twolateral projections 160 extending in transverse directions opposite one another, which provide therib 150 with a "T-shaped" cross-section. Like theribs 150, thelateral projections 160 also follow the length L of thecentral body 144_CBExtending longitudinally. Thelateral projections 160 form recesses 161 on each side of therib 150 that are configured to receive portions of thelens 168, as described below. In one embodiment (see fig. 10-11), theribs 150 may be evenly spaced circumferentially a distance around thecentral body 144. Thus, this configuration alternates between theribs 150 and thelens 168 to provide a portable light 10 that can radiate light in all directions or 360 degrees. In alternative embodiments, theribs 150 may not be evenly spaced around thecentral body 144.

The area between each pair ofribs 150 forms achannel 158. Thus, eachchannel 158 extends longitudinally along thecentral body 144. Thesechannels 158 may have an arcuate or curvilinear configuration, as shown in fig. 10 and 11. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 13, thechannel 158 may be substantially flat. Eachchannel 158 is configured to receive one of thelighting elements 100. This configuration allows thelighting element 100 to be positioned radially outward of the central axis a-a while extending longitudinally along thehousing 140 in a direction parallel or substantially parallel to the central axis a-a. This in turn allows light emitted from the one ormore lighting elements 100 to radiate primarily in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of thehousing 140 and the longitudinal axis of thepower supply 134. In other words, the "light" emitted from one ormore lighting elements 100 is not configured to emit light that is predominantly parallel to the longitudinal axis of thehousing 140 or the longitudinal axis of thepower source 134.

As described above, eachchannel 158 is configured to receive one of thelighting elements 100. Accordingly,lighting element 100 is configured to extend longitudinally alongcentral body 144. As shown in fig. 9 and 13,lighting element 100 extends almost the entire length ofpower supply 134. In other words, the length oflighting element 100 is nearly as long as the length of power supply 134 (e.g., 90% of the length). In addition, as shown in fig. 9 and 13, the length of thelighting element 100 is greater than the length of thecentral body 144. This configuration facilitates retaining thelighting element 100 within theportable light 10.

Eachlighting element 100 has alighting element PCB 162 and anemitter assembly 164. Thelighting element PCB 162 is disposed radially inward of theemitter assembly 164 and thelens 168 and is configured to be positioned within thechannel 158. As shown in fig. 9 and 13, thelighting element PCB 162 has a longer configuration than theemitter assembly 164 and thelens 168, which allows thelighting element PCB 162 to extend into the range of the first andsecond assemblies 24, 142 and theemitter assembly 164 to position thelighting element PCB 162 outside of the first andsecond assemblies 24, 142. This configuration facilitates operative coupling of thepower source 134 and thetransmitter assembly 164. Thus, thelighting element PCB 162 extends longitudinally along thecentral body 144.

As described above, thelighting element 100 has thelighting element contacts 129 and therear surface 136. A particular structure of thelighting element 100 that includes these structures is alighting element PCB 162. Thus, thelighting element PCB 162 is configured to be operatively coupled to the firstpower supply PCB 124. Thetransmitter assembly 164 is also configured to be operably coupled to thetransmitter assembly 164. Thus, when theportable light 10 is in the "on" position, thelighting element PCB 162 allows current to flow from thepower source 134 to theemitter assembly 164.

Theemitter assembly 164 is disposed on the outer surface of thelighting element PCB 162, while being radially inward of thelens 168. Eachemitter assembly 164 may consist of between 10 and 200individual emitters 165, preferably between 15 and 150individual emitters 165, and most preferably between 50 and 100individual emitters 165. Eachindividual emitter 165 that is part of theemitter assembly 164 is configured to emit light when thelighting element PCB 162 supplies power to theemitter assembly 164. Eachemitter assembly 164 may produce 0 to 1000 lumens, preferably between 0 and 750 lumens, most preferably 0 to 500 lumens. Thus, aportable lamp 10 having fourlight emitter assemblies 164 can produce 0 to 4000 lumens, preferably between 0 and 3000 lumens, most preferably between 0 and 2000 lumens. It should be understood that in other embodiments, eachindividual emitter 165 included in theemitter assembly 164 may not be configured to emit light when power is applied to theemitter assembly 164. For example, the user may select a desiredindividual emitter 165 that the user wants to illuminate while maintaining the otherindividual emitters 165 in an unlit state.

As shown in fig. 9-11, theportable lamp 10 does not include a secondary optic nor a reflector. Thus, substantially all of the light emitted from theemitter assembly 164 passes directly from theemitter assembly 164 through thelens 168 and to the ambient environment. Such a configuration may be desirable because there is substantially no light loss due to absorption by materials outside of thelens 168. Furthermore, this configuration allows for a uniform and broad distribution of light. This configuration may be achieved by using chip-on-board ("COB") LEDs or surface mount device LEDs. In such a configuration, there is no secondary optic, and thelens 168, which serves as the primary optic, may be configured to cover the plurality of individuallight emitters 165 as part of theemitter assembly 164. In particular, if COB LEDs are used as theemitter assembly 164, thelens 168 may cover at least 20individual light emitters 165, and preferably all individual light emitters 165 (e.g., 60 individual light emitters).

In other embodiments, secondary optics or reflectors may be used. For example, if a standard LED is selected as the emitter, theportable lamp 10 may have secondary optics. In this configuration, the primary optic of the standard LED is the optic surrounding the LED, and the secondary optic is thelens 168. The secondary optic may be configured to protect the standard LED from the ambient environment and to protect the user from the hot outer surface of the primary optic behind the LED. Alternatively, theportable light 10 may include a reflector positioned between an edge of theemitter assembly 164 and therib 150. The reflector may help focus the light emitted from theemitter assembly 164 in a particular direction to achieve a desired light distribution. In another alternative, theemitter assembly 164 may be positioned such that it faces inward, toward the center of theportable lamp 10, and the reflector may direct light from theemitter assembly 164 out through thelens 168. This configuration may provide a softer lighting effect because direct light emitted from theemitter assembly 164 does not exit theportable light 10 unreflected. It should be understood that any combination of these alternative embodiments may be incorporated into theportable light 10. For example, the elongated light source may have: i) alighting element 100 having a recessedemitter assembly 164, theemitter assembly 164 comprising a reflector extending from an outer edge of the recessedemitter assembly 164 to an outer edge of therib 150, and ii)lighting elements 100 without reflectors or secondary optical elements positioned on both sides of thefirst lighting element 100.

Thelens 168 is positioned radially outward from thelighting element PCB 162 andemitter assembly 164 and serves as the primary optic of thelighting element 100.Lens 168 has aninner surface 172 and anouter surface 174, whereinouter surface 174 is configured to be radially aligned with anouter surface 176 ofrib 150. This configuration provides a substantially smooth outer surface of theportable light 10. Thelens 168 includes one or more lens tabs orprotrusions 170 sized to be received by therecess 161 to secure the peripheral edge of thelens 168 under thelateral projections 160 of theribs 150. Thelens 168 serves to physically protect thelighting element PCB 162 and theemitter assembly 164 while allowing at least a substantial portion or all of the light generated by theemitter assembly 164 to pass through thelens 168. As shown in fig. 10, thecentral body 144 has an inner diameter and an outer diameter that are both smaller than an outer diameter defined by theouter surfaces 174 of the plurality oflenses 168. Theouter surface 174 of eachlens 168 has a curvilinear configuration and theouter surface 176 of eachrib 150 has a curvilinear configuration, wherein theouter surfaces 174, 176 are substantially flush with each other. Moreover, theouter surfaces 174, 176 combine to provide thecentral body 144 with a substantially smooth outer curvilinear surface that is free of significant gaps or ridges that facilitate a user's easy grasping of thecentral body 144 to secure thelamp 10 and improve the aesthetic appearance of thelamp 10.

Depending on the type ofemitter assembly 164 selected and the configuration of thechannel 158, theinner surface 172 of thelens 168 may be in contact with the outer surface of the emitter assembly 164 (see fig. 10-11), or there may be anair gap 166 between the outer surface of theemitter assembly 164 and theinner surface 172 of thelens 168. Theair gap 166 may be filled with standard air, inert gas, or a material that changes the reflective properties of the emitter assembly 164 (e.g., fused silica or fluorite). In alternative embodiments, thelens 168 may be omitted, its configuration may be changed, or there may be multiple lenses. For example, if the selectedemitter assembly 164 already has a protective cover, thelens 168 may be omitted.

In some embodiments,middle portion 22 includes fourlighting elements 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d positioned radially aroundhousing 140 andpower source 134. The fourlighting elements 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d may be evenly spaced radially around the exterior of theintermediate portion 22. This configuration allows eachlighting element 100 to project light in a 90 degree radial pattern aroundportable lamp 10. Thus, when bothlighting elements 100 are illuminated, the portable lamp projects light in a 180 degree pattern around theportable lamp 10. Similarly, when all fourlighting elements 100 are illuminated, the lamp projects light in a 360 degree pattern around theportable lamp 10. This configuration positionspower supply 134 betweenlighting elements 100a and 100 c. Likewise,power source 134 is also located betweenlighting elements 100b and 100 d. Specifically,power source 134 is centered betweenlighting elements 100a and 100 c. Likewise,power source 134 is centered betweenlighting elements 100b and 100 d. Thus, thelighting element 100 is configured to project light in a 360 degree pattern around thepower source 134.

It should be understood thatlighting elements 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d may not be evenly spaced around the exterior ofintermediate portion 22. For example, it may be beneficial to place two lighting elements adjacent to each other to provide more focused light in one area. Additionally, it should be understood that more or less than fourlighting elements 100 may be included inintermediate portion 22. For example,middle portion 22 may include onelighting element 100 or tenlighting elements 100 that extend the entire length ofmiddle portion 22. In particular, onelighting element 100 may be utilized that surrounds the entirecentral body 144. Moreover, other configurations oflighting element 100 are contemplated herein. For example,middle portion 22 may include eightlighting elements 100, wherein eachlighting element 100 does not extend the entire length ofmiddle portion 22. Rather, eachlighting element 100 extends only from an edge ofintermediate portion 22 to the middle ofintermediate portion 22. It is to be understood that any combination of the above embodiments is contemplated by the present disclosure.

Thepower source 134 is configured to be positioned within areceptacle 153 formed within thecentral body 144. Thepower supply 134 provides power to theportable light 10. Referring to fig. 8-10 and 26-28, thepower source 134 may be a combination of removable,non-rechargeable batteries 278 disposed within thebattery compartment 250. Thebattery case 250 includes: (i)first end cap 252, (ii)second end cap 254, (iii) a plurality of firstend cap contacts 256, (iv) a plurality of secondend cap contacts 258, (v) a firstbattery cartridge PCB 260, (vi) a secondbattery cartridge PCB 262, connectingwires 264, (vii) a plurality ofribs 265. The first plurality ofend cap contacts 256 has three separateend cap contacts 266, 268, and 270, while the second plurality ofend cap contacts 258 also has three separateend cap contacts 272, 274, and 276. A plurality of firstend cap contacts 256 extend through thefirst end cap 252 and are configured to operatively couple thenon-rechargeable batteries 278 disposed within thebattery compartment 250 to the first power PCB124 when thepower source 34 is disposed within theportable lamp 10. A plurality of secondend cap contacts 258 extend through thesecond end cap 254 and are configured to operatively couple thenon-rechargeable batteries 278 disposed within thebattery compartment 250 to the second power PCB178 when thepower supply 134 is disposed within theportable light 10.

The plurality ofribs 265 formed in thebattery compartment 250 may include three elongated ribs connecting thefirst end cap 252 to thesecond end cap 254. Theseelongated ribs 265 hold a removablenon-rechargeable battery 278 within the battery compartment 250 (e.g., a 9AA battery). To facilitate retaining thebattery 278 within thebattery compartment 250 when thebattery 278 is placed within thebattery compartment 250, theribs 265 may have protrusions configured to extend around portions of thebattery 278. It should be understood that different configurations of thebattery cartridge 250 may be implemented such that additional (e.g., 12 or 15 total batteries) or fewer (e.g., 1-9 total batteries)batteries 278 or larger (e.g., C or D) or smaller (e.g., AAAA or AAA) battery sizes are used.

First and secondbattery cartridge PCBs 260 and 262 are positioned betweenelongated rib 265 and endcaps 252 and 254, respectively. The firstbattery cartridge PCB 260 includes a plurality ofcontacts 280 disposed on an inner surface and a plurality of contacts 282 disposed on an outer surface. Theinner surface contacts 280 are configured to contact the positively charged ends of thecells 278, while the outer surface contacts 282 are configured to contact the plurality of firstend cap contacts 256. The firstbattery compartment PCB 260 electrically couples all of theinner surface contacts 280 together with theend cap contacts 262. This allows positive charge from all removablenon-rechargeable batteries 278 to be connected to thefirst contact 123 on the first power PCB124 when thepower supply 134 is positioned within theportable light 10. The firstbattery cartridge PCB 260 electrically couples the outer surface contacts 282 together, the outer surface contacts 282 being electrically connected to theend cap contacts 260 and 264.

The secondbattery compartment PCB 262 includes a plurality ofcontacts 284 disposed on an inner surface and a plurality of contacts 286 disposed on an outer surface. Theinner surface contacts 284 are configured to contact the negatively charged end of thebattery 278, while the outer surface contacts 286 are configured to contact the plurality of secondend cap contacts 258. Secondbattery compartment PCB 262 electrically couples all ofinner surface contacts 284 together withend cap contacts 266 and 270. This allows negative charge from all removablenon-rechargeable batteries 278 to be connected to the second power supply PCB178 when thepower supply 134 is disposed in theportable light 10. Connectingwires 264 extend from the firstbattery cartridge PCB 260 to the secondbattery cartridge PCB 262 and electrically couple theend cap contacts 260 and 264 with thecontacts 268.

Referring to fig. 26 and 27, the configuration of thepower supply 134 allows it to supply power to theportable light 10 regardless of the direction in which thepower supply 134 is inserted into theportable light 10. In other words, theportable light 10 will operate when thefirst end cap 252 is placed near the first power PCB124 or when thefirst end cap 252 is placed near thesecond power PCB 178. The following describes how current flows through theportable light 10 when thefirst end cap 252 is placed adjacent the first power PCB124 (see fig. 27). Positive current flows from the removablenon-rechargeable battery 278 to all of theinner surface contacts 280 on the firstbattery cartridge PCB 260. Next, the current flows from theinner surface contacts 280 to the outer surface contacts 282 corresponding to theend cap contacts 268. Next, current flows from the outer surface contacts 282 corresponding to theend cap contacts 268. The current then flows from theend cap contact 268 to thefirst contact 123 associated with thefirst power PCB 124. The current then flows from thefirst contacts 123 associated with the first power PCB124 to thecircuitry 499 contained within theportable light 10 that includes thelighting element 100. Next, current flows from thecircuitry 499 contained within the portable light 10 to thesecond contacts 125 associated with thefirst power PCB 124. Next, current flows from thesecond contact 125 associated with the first power PCB124 to theend cap contacts 266 and 270. Next, the current flows from theend cap contacts 266 and 270 to the outer surface contacts 282 associated with theend cap contacts 266 and 270. Next, current flows from the outer surface contacts associated withend cap contacts 266 and 270 toconnection line 264. Next, a current flows from the first end of theconnection line 264 to the second end of theconnection line 264. Next, the current flows from the second end of theconnection line 264 to the outer surface contact 286 associated with theend cap contact 274. Next, current flows from the outer surface 286 contact associated with theend cap contact 274 to theend cap contact 274. The current then flows from theend cap contact 274 to thesecond power PCB 178. Next, current flows from the second power PCB178 to theend cap contacts 272 and 276. The current then flows from theend cap contacts 272 and 276 to the outer surface contacts 286 of the secondbattery cartridge PCB 262 to all of theinner surface contacts 284. Finally, current flows from theinner surface contacts 284 to the negative terminal of thebattery 278.

Optionally, the following describes how current flows through theportable light 10 when thesecond end cap 254 is placed adjacent the first power PCB124 (see fig. 28). Negative current flows from the removablenon-rechargeable battery 278 to all of theinner surface contacts 284 on the secondbattery compartment PCB 262. Next, the current flows from theinner surface contacts 284 to the outer surface contacts 286 corresponding to theend cap contacts 272 and 276. Next, current flows from outer surface contact 286, which corresponds to endcap contacts 272 and 276, to endcap contacts 272 and 276. Next, current flows from theend cap contacts 272 and 276 to thesecond contact 125 associated with thefirst power PCB 124. Then, current flows from thesecond contacts 125 associated with the first power PCB124 through thecircuitry 499 contained in theportable light 10, including thelighting element 100. Next, current flows from thecircuitry 499 contained within the portable light 10 to thefirst contact 123 associated with thefirst power PCB 124. Next, current flows from thefirst contact 123 associated with the first power PCB124 to theend cap contact 274. Next, the current flows from theend cap contact 274 to the outer surface contact 286 associated with theend cap contact 274. The current then flows from the outer surface contact 286 associated with theend cap contact 274 to theconnection line 264. Then, the current flows from the first end of theconnection line 264 to the second end of theconnection line 264. The current then flows from the second end of theconnection line 264 to the outer surface contacts 282 associated with theend cap contacts 266 and 270. Next, current flows from theend cap contacts 266 and 270 to thesecond power PCB 178. Next, current flows from the second power PCB178 to theend cap contacts 268. The current flows from theend cap contact 268 to the outer surface contacts 282 associated with theend cap contact 268. The current then flows from the outer surface contacts 282 associated with theend cap contact 268 to all of theinner surface contacts 280. Finally, the positive current flows from theinner surface contact 280 to the positive terminal of thebattery 278. Thus, thepower supply 134 may be operatively connected to the portable light 10 in any orientation.

It should be understood that thepower source 134 may be a removable non-rechargeable battery, a removable rechargeable battery, a combination of removable rechargeable batteries disposed in thebattery compartment 250, a non-removable rechargeable battery, a combination of non-removable rechargeable batteries disposed within thebattery compartment 250, a direct current power source configured to connect to a 12 volt automotive battery, a DC power source configured to connect to a 110 volt ac power outlet, or any other type of power source known to those skilled in the art, rather than a combination of removablenon-rechargeable batteries 278 disposed within thebattery compartment 250.

Thesecond end assembly 142 is operatively connected to thesecond end 18 of theportable light 10. Thesecond end assembly 142 allows the portable light to be mounted in a number of different positions (e.g., one is themagnetic support surface 44 with the retractable stabilizingassembly 192 in the retractedstate 210 or the retractable stabilizingassembly 192 in the extended state 212). Thesecond end assembly 142 includes: (i)connector ring 182, (ii)base connector 184, (iii)bottom housing 186, and (vi) retractable stabilizingassembly 192. Thebase connector 184 has a first set ofinternal threads 194 and two sets ofexternal threads 196, 198. The first set ofinternal threads 194 are configured to engage a set ofthreads 196 located within a set ofrecesses 152 located proximate thesecond end 148 of thecentral body 144. This configuration secures thelighting element 100 within thechannel 158 formed within theintermediate housing 140. While the first set ofexternal threads 196 is configured to engage the threads on theconnector ring 182, the second set ofexternal threads 198 is configured to operatively engage a set ofinternal threads 202 disposed within thebottom housing 186. Thethreads 198, 202 enable a user to remove thebottom housing 186 from themiddle housing 140. Thereby allowing the user to replace thepower source 134 or couple other accessories to theportable light 10. It should be understood that thebottom housing 186 may be coupled to theintermediate housing 140 using other methods, such as a quarter-turn adapter, bayonet connector, press-fit connector, or other connectors known to those skilled in the art.

Thebottom case 186 includes: (i) a second power supply PCB178, (ii) amagnet receptacle 188, and (iii) amagnet 190. Thebottom housing 186 may have a textured or knurled (e.g., slits, bevels, or intersecting lines)outer surface 187. A textured orknurled surface 187 may be included to enhance the grip of the user when rotating thebottom housing 186. It should be understood that the textured or knurled surface 187 (see fig. 23-25) may be omitted or may be reduced in size. As described above, the second power PCB178 is configured to contact thepower supply 134 to complete the circuit. Themagnet receptacle 188 extends from abottom surface 199 of thebottom housing 186. This configuration places the magnet 190 a safe distance from the second power PCB178 to ensure that the magnet does not interfere with the circuitry of theportable light 10. Themagnet 190 is disposed within themagnet receptacle 188 and is substantially flush or in the same plane as thebottom surface 199 of thebottom housing 186. This configuration ensures that the maximum surface area of themagnet 190 is in contact with thesupport surface 44. The strength of the magnet is sufficient to maintain the portable light 10 in a horizontal position from thevertical support surface 44. In particular, the strength of the magnets is between 300 and 30 millitera, preferably between 200 and 75 millitera, and most preferably between 150 and 100 millitera. Alternatively, themagnet 190 may be weaker, substantially stronger, or may be electromagnetically controlled by a battery.

Retractable stabilizingassemblies 192 are shown in fig. 1-5, 7-9, 11, 13, and 23-25. In some embodiments, as best shown in fig. 2, 3, 7-9, the retractable stabilizingassembly 192 includes one ormore legs 204. Thelegs 204 are individually retractable and may be selectively positioned in anextended position 212, as shown in fig. 2 and 8, and may also be selectively positioned in a retractedposition 210, as exemplarily shown in fig. 1, 3-5, and 7. When thelegs 204 are in the retractedposition 210, the outer surfaces of thelegs 204 do not extend beyond the radius of the outer surface of therib 150. When the legs are in theextended position 212, the outer surface of thelegs 204 extend beyond the radius of therib 150. This configuration enables the portable light 10 to more stably stand on thesupport surface 44, as shown in fig. 2.

Thebottom housing 186 includes arecess 206 formed at least in part by themagnet receptacle 188. Thefeet 204 or at least portions of thefeet 204 form a substantially flat and flush surface, or common plane, with thebottom surface 199 of thebottom housing 186. Thelegs 204 may also form a common plane with themagnet 190. Additionally, thelegs 204 or at least portions of the legs may be disposed within therecesses 206 when thelegs 204 are disposed in the retractedposition 210. This configuration is facilitated by the substantially arcuate shape of thelegs 204. In particular, when thelegs 204 are disposed in the retractedposition 210, thelegs 204 may form a substantially circular shape and, thus, conform to the substantially cylindrical shape of theportable light 10.

Each of the one ormore legs 204 may be hingedly attached to thebottom housing 186 of theportable light 10 at apivot point 208, whichpivot point 208 may form a fastener 209. Thelegs 204 may be biased toward one or moreextended positions 212 and retractedpositions 210. Thelegs 204 may also be locked in one or more of theextended position 212 and the retractedposition 210 by a releasable locking system (not shown) by any mechanical fastening system generally known to those skilled in the art.

Referring to fig. 1-12, thestationary member 30 may support, suspend and/or support the portable light 10 during handling, storage and/or transportation. Thefirst end 14 includes a securingmember 30, the securingmember 30 being pivotably attached to thefirst end 14. Specifically, the securingmember 30 is coupled to theupper housing 26 at apivot point 31, thepivot point 31 being disposed on an outer surface of theupper flange 78. This configuration allows thefixation member 30 to be pivotally attached to thefirst end 14 and selectively rotatable relative to thefirst end 14 between a plurality of orientations.

Thefixation member 30 may have a substantially arcuate shape, but it should be understood that other shapes are also within the scope of the present disclosure. The securingmember 30 may be selectively disposed in a first or stowedposition 214, as exemplarily shown in fig. 3-6, 8-9, and 11. In thefirst position 214, the securingmember 30 is located between the upper edge of themode selector ring 82 and theouter rim 40. Thus, thefixation member 30 is positioned adjacent to the outer surface of theupper flange 78. In thisfirst position 214, thefixation member 30 lies in a plane that is substantially parallel to thefirst end wall 38 and theouter edge 40.

Thefixation member 30 may also be selectively disposed in a second or deployedposition 216, as shown in fig. 1-2. In thesecond position 216, the securingmember 30 is positioned above theouter rim 40. In thissecond position 216, thefixation member 30 may be positioned at any angle that places it above theouter rim 40, and fully deployed when thefixation member 30 is positioned substantially perpendicular to theouter rim 40. It should be understood that thefixation member 30 may also have a releasable locking system (not shown) that may secure thefixation member 30 in one or more positions (e.g., thefirst position 214 or the second position 216).

Fig. 12 is a circuit diagram of components included in theportable lamp 10. Specifically, the circuit part shown in fig. 12 includes: i) switches 218 and 226 corresponding to themode flags 110a-110e, ii) switches 228 corresponding to theluminosity selector assembly 28, iii) thepower supply 134, iv) thelighting elements 100a-100d, v) resistors and capacitors disposed on the luminosity PCB54, the mode selector PCB84, or the first power supply PCB124, including R5-R8, R12, R13, R15, C1-C3, and vi) themicrocontroller 230. In this configuration, themicrocontroller 230 accepts input from theswitch 218 and 228 and power from thepower supply 134 and outputs control signals to thelighting elements 100a-110 d. Circuit elements disposed on one of thePCBs 54, 84 or 124 may protect the microcontroller from current spikes or electrical noise, act as electrical filters, or act as dimming potentiometers for theluminosity selector assembly 28. Further, as shown in fig. 12, each of thelighting elements 100a-100d includes: i)emitter assembly 164, ii) two resistors (e.g., R10 and R14), iii) and a transistor (e.g., Q4). Each of these circuit elements included in thelighting elements 100a-100d is disposed on thelighting element PCB 162. It should be understood that the present disclosure contemplates other circuit configurations or arrangements of circuit elements on other PCBs. Further, it is contemplated by the present disclosure that other circuit elements may be included withinportable lamp 10, such as a wireless communication module, additional microcontrollers, additional switches for controlling lumen output or selection oftransmitter 164, or any other circuitry necessary to perform the functions described herein.

The following disclosure of the operation of theportable light 10 applies with equal force to all embodiments of the portable elongated light described herein (e.g., the first embodiment shown in fig. 1-13, the second embodiment shown in fig. 14-22, and the third embodiment shown in fig. 23-25). Specifically, in operation, a user may: (i) selectively mounting the portable light 10 in various ways, (ii) selecting a luminosity rating of thelighting elements 100, and (iii) selecting which lighting elements are illuminated 100. The user may move the securingmember 30 to the deployedposition 214, as best shown in fig. 1 and 2, wherein the user may then hang theportable light 10 via the deployed securingmember 30 on an object or securing device (e.g., a hook) disposed above theportable light 10. Second, the user may releasably attach themagnet 190 located within thelower end 18 to a magnetic surface or object. Thus, theportable light 10 will be magnetically mounted to a selected magnetic surface or object in any orientation (e.g., to a metal surface of a tool box or vehicle). Third, the user may place thebottom surface 199 of theportable light 10 on thesurface support surface 44 and deploy the retractable stabilizing assembly 192 (see fig. 2). Fourth, a user may manually carry theportable light 10 between locations for portable lighting, serving as a flashlight or lantern.

The user also has a number of options regarding the luminosity grade of theportable light 10. Theluminosity selector assembly 28 can be manipulated to cause theillumination element 100 of theportable lamp 10 to produce zero luminosity. Alternatively,luminosity selector assembly 28 may be manipulated to cause one ormore lighting elements 100 to generate various degrees of light. While fig. 1-11, 14-20, and 23-25 illustratelighting elements 100 that produce zero light, fig. 21-22 illustrate eachlighting element 100 emitting light as indicated bylight line 232.

The user also has a number of options regarding the mode of operation of theportable light 10. The mode of operation may be selected or changed by manipulating themode selector ring 82 relative to themode indicia 110. In some embodiments, as shown, theselection indicators 108 on themode selector ring 82 rotate relative to themode indicia 110. The mode indicia 110 may include images or numbers, illustratively shown as I, II, III, and IV. When theselection indicator 108 is arranged corresponding to the mode indicia 110 (one of I, II, III and IV), theportable light 10 will operate in the operating mode corresponding to the selected mode indicia 110(I, II, III and IV). It should be understood that more, fewer, oralternative mode markers 110 are within the scope of the present disclosure.

Some modes of operation are discussed below. In the "off" mode of operation, nolighting element 100 is illuminated. Theportable light 10 can be set to this "off" mode of operation in two different ways. The first way in which this "off" mode of operation may be achieved is for the user to place themode selector ring 82 in the "off" position by aligning theselection indicator 108 with themode indicia 110 a. In this configuration, the setting of theluminosity selector assembly 28 is not of concern because there are nolighting elements 100 selected for illumination. A second way in which this "off" mode of operation may be achieved is for the user to place the rotary dial 46 in the "off"position 64. In this configuration, the setting of themode selector assembly 32 is irrelevant, as no current is applied to anylighting element 100.

In a first mode of operation, one of thelighting elements 100 is illuminated. For example,lighting element 100a may be illuminated. This second mode of operation is achieved by two means: i) rotating theluminosity selector ring 82 to align theselection indicator 108 with themode mark 110 b; and ii) rotating the rotary dial 46 to issue a command for a luminosity greater than zero. If either of thesecomponents 28, 32 is located in a different position, theportable light 10 will not be in the second mode of operation. It should be understood that the user may then change the lumen output of the illuminated lighting element (e.g., 100a) by changing the position of the rotary dial 46. For example, a user may rotate dial 46 in a clockwise direction to increase lumen output or may rotate dial 46 in a counterclockwise direction to decrease lumen output.

In the second mode of operation, twolighting elements 100 are illuminated. For example,lighting elements 100a and 100b may be illuminated. This third mode of operation is achieved by two means: i) rotating theluminosity selector ring 82 to align theselection indicator 108 with themode mark 110 c; and ii) rotate the rotary dial 46 to issue a command for a luminosity greater than zero. If either of thesecomponents 28, 32 is placed in a different position, theportable light 10 will not be in the third mode of operation. It should be understood that the user may then change the lumen output of the illuminated lighting elements (e.g., 100a and 100b) by changing the position of the rotary dial 46.

In a third mode of operation, three of thelighting elements 100 are illuminated. For example,lighting elements 100a, 100b, and 100c may be illuminated. This fourth mode of operation is achieved by two means: i) rotating theluminosity selector ring 82 to align theselection indicator 108 with themode mark 110 d; and ii) rotating the rotary dial 46 to issue a command for a luminosity greater than zero. If either of thesecomponents 28, 32 is located in a different position, theportable light 10 will not be in the fourth mode of operation. It should be understood that the user may then change the lumen output of the illuminated lighting elements (e.g., 100a, 100b, and 100c) by changing the position of the rotary dial 46.

In a fourth mode of operation, all fourlighting elements 100 are illuminated. For example,lighting elements 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d may be illuminated. This fourth mode of operation is achieved by two means: i) rotating theluminosity selector ring 82 to align theselection indicator 108 with themode mark 110 e; and ii) rotating the rotary dial 46 to issue a command for a luminosity greater than zero. If either of thesecomponents 28, 32 is placed in a different position, theportable light 10 will not be in the fifth mode of operation. It should be understood that the user may then change the lumen output of the illuminated lighting elements (e.g., 100a, 100b, 100c, and 100d) by changing the position of the rotary dial 46.

In some embodiments,adjacent lighting elements 100, such as 100a and 100b or 100a-100c, may illuminate when a user manipulates bothassemblies 28, 32 to command such light output. In other embodiments,non-adjacent lighting elements 100, such as 100a and 100c or 100b and 100d, may illuminate when a user manipulates bothassemblies 28, 32 to command such light output. Other modes of operation may be configured within theportable light 10. For example, such operating modes may include: i) operating one ormore lighting elements 100 in a flashing light pattern (e.g., strobe, SOS, etc.), ii) one ormore lighting elements 100 illuminated in a different color thanother lighting elements 100; iii) the lumen output of the one ormore lighting elements 100 is different compared to the other lighting elements 100 (e.g., 100a outputs 2000 lumens and 100b outputs 500 lumens), iv) the one ormore lighting elements 100 only illuminate a portion of the lighting elements 100 (e.g., the lower half of onelighting element 100 is illuminated), v) or a combination of any of these operating modes.

Similar to theportable light 10 described above, fig. 14-22 illustrate another embodiment of aportable light 1001. The portable light 1001 may be selectively installed in various ways, may select whichlighting element 1100 is illuminated, and select a luminosity level of thelighting element 1100. For the sake of brevity, the above disclosure in connection with theportable light 10 will not be repeated below, but it should be understood that like numerals represent like structures in the various embodiments. For example, the disclosure regardinglighting element 100 applies equally tolighting element 1100. Further, it should be understood that the mode of operation of the portable light 1001 is similar or identical to the mode of operation disclosed with respect to theportable light 10. It should be understood that any one or more features of theportable light 10 may be used in combination with those disclosed with respect to the portable light 1001, and that any one or more features of the portable light 1001 may be used in combination with those disclosed with respect to theportable light 10.

The main differences between theportable lamp 10 and theportable lamp 1001 are: i)top assembly 1024 omits retainingmember 30, ii) replaces retractable stabilizingassembly 192 with retaining assembly 1600, and iii) rotating dial 1046 withdial groove 61. The portable light 1001 is mechanically and electrically identical to theportable light 10, except for other differences.

The mounting assembly 1600 may support, suspend and/or support the portable light 10 during handling, storage and/or transportation.Second end 1018 includes a securing assembly 1600, the securing assembly 1600 being pivotably attached tosecond end 1018. In other words, this configuration allows the fixation assembly 1600 to be pivotably attached to thesecond end 1018, and may be selectively rotated between a plurality of orientations relative to thesecond end 1018.

The fixation assembly 1600 has a firstarcuate member 1602. The firstarcuate member 1602 may be selectively disposed in a first or stowedposition 1610 as exemplarily shown in fig. 16-18 and 21-22. In thefirst position 1610, the firstarcuate member 1602 is positioned adjacent themagnet 1190 and above thebottom surface 199 of thebottom housing 186. Thus, the firstarcuate member 1602 is located within the recess orcircular groove 1206. In thefirst position 1610, the firstarcuate member 1602 lies in a plane that is substantially parallel to thebottom surface 199 of thebottom housing 186. In thissecond position 1612, firstarcuate member 1602 may be positioned at any angle that places it belowbottom surface 199, when firstarcuate member 1602 is positioned substantially perpendicular tobottom surface 199, and firstarcuate member 1602 is fully deployed. It should be appreciated that the firstarcuate member 1602 may also have a releasable locking system (not shown) that may secure the firstarcuate member 1602 in one or more positions (e.g.,first position 1610 or second position 1612).

The mounting assembly 1600 may also have a secondarcuate member 1604. Secondarcuate member 1604 may be selectively disposed in a first or stowedposition 1610, as exemplarily shown in fig. 16-18 and 21-22. In thefirst position 1610, the secondarcuate member 1604 is positioned adjacent themagnet 1190 and above thebottom surface 199 of thebottom housing 186. Thus, secondarcuate member 1604 is positioned within recess orcircular groove 1206. In thisfirst position 1610, the secondarcuate member 1604 lies in a plane that is substantially parallel to thebottom surface 199 of thebottom housing 186. In thissecond position 1612, secondarcuate member 1604 may be positioned at any angle that places it belowbottom surface 199, with secondarcuate member 1604 being fully deployed when secondarcuate member 1604 is positioned substantially perpendicular tobottom surface 199. It should be appreciated that secondarcuate member 1604 may also have a releasable locking system (not shown) that may secure secondarcuate member 1604 in one or more positions (e.g.,first position 1610 or second position 1612).

When the first and secondarcuate members 1602, 1604 are both in the second position (see fig. 20), thearcuate members 1602, 1604 form an arc that extends from one side of the portable light 1001 to the other side of theportable light 1001. Additionally, it should be understood that first and secondarcuate members 1602, 1604 may move independently of one another. Further, it is contemplated by the present disclosure forarcuate members 1602, 1604 to have other shapes or thicknesses.

Similar to theportable light 10 described above, fig. 23-25 illustrate another embodiment of a portable elongated light 2001. The portable elongated light 2001 may be selectively mounted in various ways, may select whichlighting element 2100 to illuminate, and select a luminosity level of thelighting element 2100. For the sake of brevity, the above disclosure in connection with theportable lamp 10 will not be repeated below, but it should be understood that like numerals represent like structures in the embodiments. For example, the disclosure regardinglighting element 100 applies equally tolighting element 2100. Further, it should be understood that the mode of operation of the portable elongated light 2001 is similar or identical to the mode of operation disclosed with respect to theportable light 10. Moreover, it should be understood that any one or more features of theportable light 10 may be used in combination with those disclosed with respect to the portable elongated light 2001, and that any one or more features of the portable elongated light 2001 may be used in combination with those disclosed with respect to theportable light 10.

The main differences between theportable light 10 and the portable elongated light 2001 are: i) omitting the textured orknurled surface 106 from the mode selector ring 1082, ii) omitting the textured orknurled surface 187 from thebottom housing 1186, and iii) the securing member 1030 being positioned moved from an outer surface adjacent therear surface 1078 for placement in therecess 1038. Placing the fixation member 1030 in therecess 1038 may be beneficial because variations in the fixation member 1030 will be accidentally caught on the protrusion, which may damage the fixation member 1030, may be reduced.

Accessories that may be used in conjunction with theportable light 10 are discussed below. For the sake of brevity, the following accessories are discussed only in connection with theportable light 10. However, it should be understood that the following accessories may be used in combination with any of the embodiments of theportable light 10, including the second andthird embodiments 1001, 2001. The first accessory may include a flashlight head to which thesecond end 18 of theportable light 10 may be attached. Specifically, the user may remove thesecond end assembly 142 from theportable light 10 and replace theassembly 142 with a flashlight head. The first accessory will be directly connected to thepower source 134 and will draw power therefrom. The first attachment may include a cone-shaped body, a reflector located within the cone-shaped body, an emitter located at a bottom of the reflector, and a switch. This first attachment allows the user to focus light in a direction perpendicular to thelighting element 100. During operation, the first accessory may disable the lighting elements or may function above with them. This accessory may be desirable because it may allow the portable elongated lamp to switch to lantern operation (e.g., illuminate the lighting element) in the first mode and to operate like a portable flashlight (e.g., illuminate the flashlight head) in the second mode.

The second accessory may include a speaker that may be connected to thesecond end 18 of theportable light 10. Specifically, the user may remove thesecond end assembly 142 from theportable light 10 and replace theassembly 142 with a speaker. This second accessory would be directly connected topower source 134 and would draw power therefrom. The second accessory may include a wireless module, an on/off button, and a pairing button. The wireless module contained in the speaker allows the user to connect to a portable device, such as a cellular phone or laptop computer, so that the speaker receives and plays audio signals. An on/off button turns the speaker on and off and a pairing button sends a signal to the wireless module to facilitate pairing of the wireless module with the portable device. The second accessory may have the same diameter as the portable light 10 or a larger diameter than theportable light 10. This second accessory enables the user to listen to music while using the light emitted from theportable lamp 10.

The third accessory may include a sensor, a wireless module or both that may be connected to thesecond end 18 of theportable light 10. Specifically, the user may remove thesecond end assembly 142 from theportable light 10 and replace theassembly 142 with a sensor or wireless module. This third accessory would be directly connected topower source 134 and would draw power therefrom. The sensor may be a motion sensor, a light sensor, a pressure sensor, a humidity sensor, an acceleration sensor, a sound sensor or any combination of these sensors. The wireless module may be compatible with bluetooth, NFC, Felica, WiFi, Zigbee, RFID, cellular, WiMAX, ISM, or any combination of these technologies. For example, if a local light sensor is included in the third accessory, theportable light 10 may cause thelighting element 100 not to illuminate in response to detecting light local to theportable light 10. In another embodiment, if a local acoustic sensor (e.g., a microphone) is included in the third accessory, the user may use voice commands to turn on theportable light 10. Alternatively, if a wireless module is attached to theportable lamp 10, the elongated lamp may be controlled by a remote device (e.g., a cell phone, laptop computer, RF remote control, wireless camera, remote motion sensor, remote light sensor, timer, or remote device, as described in U.S. patent application 15/812,852, filed 5, 17, 2018, which is fully incorporated herein by reference). This third accessory enables the portable light 10 to be remotely controlled by a user or sensor, which may be desirable in many situations.

The fourth accessory may comprise a tripod. Specifically, a user may remove thesecond end assembly 142 from theportable light 10 and replace theassembly 142 with a connector that may be attached to a tripod. The accessory may be useful for working at a construction site or taking photographs.

The fifth accessory may include a charging base. Specifically, a user may remove thesecond end assembly 142 from theportable light 10 and replace theassembly 142 with a second end assembly that includes a usb receptacle or a plurality of usb receptacles. In particular, the receptors may be positioned at the current location of themagnet 190, or they may be positioned on a surface of thebottom housing 186 that is perpendicular to thebottom surface 199. The location on this side may be beneficial as it will allow a user to place thesecond end 18 on a support surface while accessing the usb receptacle. This fifth accessory will be directly connected topower source 134 and will draw power therefrom.

The sixth accessory may include a different type of power source orbackup power source 134. Thus, the sixth accessory may be a removable non-rechargeable battery, a combination of removable non-rechargeable batteries, a removable rechargeable battery, a combination of removable rechargeable batteries disposed within thebattery compartment 250, a non-removable rechargeable battery, a combination of non-removable rechargeable batteries disposed within thebattery compartment 250, a DC power source configured to connect to a 12 volt automotive battery, a DC power source configured to connect to a 110 volt AC outlet, or any other type of power source known to those skilled in the art.

The seventh appendage may comprise any combination of appendages one through six. For example, it may be desirable to have a portable light 10 with a rechargeable battery that includes a usb receptacle thereon, and the bottom housing may also have a usb receptacle. This would allow the user to charge the rechargeable battery using the usb cable. After the battery is charged and placed in theportable light 10, the user can then charge their cellular telephone from theportable light 10 without removing the battery from the light. Alternatively, it may be desirable to use a tripod in conjunction with a power supply that includes an AC-DC converter. The present disclosure contemplates other embodiments or combinations.

Theportable light 10 has a number of advantages over existing lighting systems. Unlike lighting systems that provide only a single mounting configuration, luminosity pattern, and/or operating mode, the present disclosure provides a system that synergistically and advantageously combines at least all of these features to create a unified system that provides flexibility, portability, and varying operating mode functionality.

While the foregoing has described what are considered to be the best mode and/or other embodiments, it is understood that various modifications may be made therein and that the subject matter disclosed herein may be implemented in various forms and embodiments, and that these teachings may be applied in numerous applications, only some of which have been described herein. It is intended by the following claims to claim any and all applications, modifications and variations that fall within the true scope of the present teachings. Other embodiments are also contemplated.

While some embodiments have been illustrated and described, many modifications come to mind without significantly departing from the spirit of this disclosure; and the scope of protection is limited only by the scope of the appended claims. For example, the overall shape of theportable light 10 may be a triangular prism, a rectangular prism, a cube, a pentagonal prism, a hexagonal prism, an octagonal prism, a sphere, a cone, a tetrahedron, a cuboid, a dodecahedron, an icosahedron, a torus, an octahedron, an ellipsoid, or any other similar shape. In particular, theportable light 10 may have a triangular or spherical shape and include a plurality ofribs 150, theillumination element 100, and an arrangement of themode selector assembly 32 and theluminosity selector assembly 28. In this embodiment, themode selector assembly 32 and theluminosity selector assembly 28 may be depressible buttons. Similarly, theportable lamp 10 may be configured in a hexagonal prism shape having sixlighting elements 100. In particular,lighting element 100 may be located on the sides of a prism andrib 150 may be located on the apex. In addition, themode selector assembly 32 andluminosity selector assembly 28 may be located on top of a hexagonal prism.

The length of theportable light 10 may be between 14 inches and 4 inches, preferably between 12 inches and 6 inches, and most preferably between 10 inches and 8 inches. The width of theportable light 10 may be between 5 inches and 0.5 inches, preferably between 3 inches and 1 inch, and most preferably between 2 inches and 1.5 inches. For example, the length of theportable light 10 is about 8 times the width, preferably 6 times the width, and most preferably at least 5 times the width. In a commercial embodiment, theportable light 10 may have a length of about 9.5 ± 1 inches and a diameter of about 1.7 ± 0.5 inches. This configuration allows the portable light 10 to have an elongated configuration because the length is significantly greater than the width.

In an embodiment where theportable light 10 is 1.8 inches in diameter and has four evenly spacedlighting elements 100, the arc length of eachlighting element 100 may be between 0.4 inches and 0.2 inches, preferably between 0.35 and 0.25, and most preferably between 0.32 and 0.28. In an embodiment where theportable light 10 is 1.8 inches in diameter and the retractable stabilizingassembly 192 is in the retractedposition 210, the outer diameter of the retractable stabilizingassembly 192 is 1.8 inches. In other words, when the retractable stabilizingassembly 192 is in the retractedposition 210, the outer diameter of the retractable stabilizingassembly 192 is the same as the diameter of theportable light 10. In embodiments where theportable light 10 is 1.8 inches in diameter and the retractable stabilizingassembly 192 is in the deployed orextended position 212, the outer diameter of the retractable stabilizingassembly 192 is between 2.5 inches and 5 inches. In other words, when the retractable stabilizingassembly 192 is in the deployedposition 212, the outer diameter of the retractable stabilizingassembly 192 is greater than the outer diameter of theportable light 10. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the retractable stabilizingassembly 192 is 4 times greater than the outer diameter of theportable light 10, preferably 3 times greater than the outer diameter of theportable light 10, and most preferably at least 1.5 times greater than the outer diameter of theportable light 10 when the retractable stabilizingassembly 192 is in the deployedposition 212.

In an alternative embodiment, themode selector assembly 32 and theluminosity selector assembly 28 may be combined into a single assembly that controls the luminosity and the operating mode of theportable lamp 10. For example, the combination component may be one or more buttons, switches, sliders, local sensors (e.g., motion, light, sound, heat, motion), or other types of electrical selection devices. In one embodiment, the combination assembly may be a single button that allows a user to select the illumination mode and the operational mode of theportable light 10 by utilizing a combination of pressing and/or holding the button in a pressed state. For example, the user: (i) a button may be pressed once to "turn on" asingle lighting element 100, (ii) a button may be pressed three times to "turn on" threelighting elements 100, and (iii) held down for a predetermined time to alter the brightness or luminosity level. In addition, the single component may be located remotely from theportable light 10. Thus, in this configuration, theportable light 10 will not have any features on theportable light 10 itself that allow a user to control the operation of thelighting element 100. This configuration may allow the portable light 10 to be waterproof for up to 30 meters. For example, theluminosity selector assembly 28 may be located on a remote wireless device, such as the remote device described in U.S. patent application 15/812,852 filed 5/17/2018, which is fully incorporated herein by reference. Another example of a remote wireless device includes a cell phone, laptop, RF remote control, or other device (e.g., wireless camera, motion sensor, light sensor, timer, etc.) that connects to theportable lamp 10 via the internet.

In one embodiment,emitter assemblies 164 may be COB LEDs that do not require secondary optics, have good heat dissipation, and may have a higher density to form a more uniform/higher sheen. It should be understood that different types ofemitter assemblies 164 may be utilized, such as: (i) a standard LED, (ii) an organic LED, (iii) an induced light plate, (iv) a silicon quantum dot phosphor (SiQD-phosphor), or (v) a surface mount device LED. Further, it should be understood that combinations of different types ofemitter assemblies 164 may be utilized. For example, onelight emitter component 164 may be a surface mounted LED, while the otherlight emitters 164 may be COB LEDs. It should also be understood that thelens 168 may also be omitted. In this configuration, there is no primary optic, no secondary optic and no reflector.

The shape of thelens 168 may vary depending on the type ofemitter assembly 164 and the light distribution pattern selected. For example, as shown in fig. 10-11, thelens 168 may have a substantially uniform thickness over theemitter assembly 164. It should be appreciated that while thelens 168 may continue to have a substantially uniform thickness, thelens 168 may have a greater curvature or a lesser curvature, which in turn will provide a more concentrated or less concentrated light distribution pattern, respectively. It should be understood that theouter surface 174 of thelens 168 may have a different configuration, wherein thelens 168 does not have a substantially uniform thickness. For example, theouter surface 174 of thelens 168 may have a greater curvature than theinner surface 172. Other thickness variations and/or curvature combinations are contemplated by the present disclosure. For example, somelighting elements 100 may havelenses 168 with greater curvature, whileother lighting elements 100 may havelenses 168 with greater curvature. This configuration allows the user to further select a desired light distribution pattern.

Theupper housing 26, themiddle housing 140, and the bottom housing 185 may be combined into a single housing, and the power source may be a rechargeable battery that is not intended to be removed from the housing. Theupper housing 26, themiddle housing 140, and thebottom housing body 186 may be formed of a metal such as aluminum or steel, a polymer material such as plastic, or a combination of metal and polymer material. Thelens 168 may be made of a polymeric material, such as plastic, and may be transparent, partially transparent, or colored. Some or all of theribs 150 may be made of a magnet material. Theouter rim 40 may also be made of a magnet material.

All elements of theportable light 10 may be painted black except for: i) aselection indicator 108, ii) amode indicia 110, iii) acover 48, iv) aluminosity indicator 62, v) alighting element 100, vi) aconnector ring 36, and aconnector ring 182. In particular, the connector rings 36, 182 may be painted green. Theouter surface 176 of therib 150 may include indicia, such as the manufacturer of thelamp 10, or may be personalized to include a person's name or information.

Headings and sub-headings, if any, are for convenience only and are not limiting. The word "exemplary" is used to mean serving as an example or illustration. To the extent that the terms "includes," "has," and the like are used, they are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term "comprising" as "comprising" is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim. Relational terms such as first and second, and the like may be used solely to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions.

Phrases such as an aspect, the aspect, another aspect, some aspects, one or more aspects, an implementation, the implementation, another implementation, some implementations, one or more implementations, an embodiment, the embodiment, another embodiment, some embodiments, one or more embodiments, a configuration, the configuration, another configuration, some configurations, one or more configurations, the subject technology, disclosure, other variations thereof, and the like are for convenience and do not imply that comments of the disclosure relating to such phrases are essential to the subject technology or that such disclosure applies to all configurations of the subject technology. The disclosure relating to such phrases may apply to all configurations, or one or more configurations. Disclosure related to such phrases may provide one or more embodiments. A phrase such as one aspect or certain aspects may refer to one or more aspects and vice versa and this applies analogously to other preceding phrases.

Various modifications to the disclosure will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the foregoing description. Preferred embodiments of this disclosure are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the disclosure. It should be understood that the illustrated embodiments are exemplary only, and should not be taken as limiting the scope of the disclosure.

Claims (24)

1. A portable lantern having a plurality of independent selector assemblies, the portable lantern comprising:

a central body defining a receptacle, the central body having:

a plurality of outer ribs disposed about a periphery of the central body, wherein the ribs extend longitudinally along a length of the central body;

a channel disposed between a pair of outer ribs, wherein the channel extends longitudinally along the central body;

a lighting element located within the channel, wherein the lighting element extends longitudinally along the central body, and wherein the lighting element does not include a reflector or secondary optics;

a lens overlying the lighting element and within the channel, wherein the lens acts as a primary optic and extends longitudinally along the central body;

a power source comprising a battery compartment and a plurality of batteries removably positioned within the compartment, wherein the power source is removably inserted into the receptacle of the central body;

a first end assembly operably connected to the central body, lighting element, and power source, the first end assembly comprising:

an operating mode selector assembly for selectively controlling which of the lighting elements are illuminated during operation of the portable lantern;

a luminosity selector assembly for selectively controlling a lumen output of a lighting element selected for illumination during operation of the portable lantern; and the number of the first and second groups,

a second end assembly operably coupled to the central body and including a retractable stabilizing assembly configured to be positioned in at least a deployed position and a retracted position.

2. The lantern of claim 1, wherein a range of the retractable stabilizing assembly extends radially beyond an outer diameter of the second end assembly when the retractable stabilizing assembly is in the deployed position, and

wherein, when the retractable stabilizing assembly is in the retracted position, the retractable stabilizing assembly remains within and does not extend radially beyond the outer diameter of the second end assembly.

3. The lantern of claim 2, wherein a magnet is positioned within the retractable stabilizing assembly of the second end assembly.

4. The lantern of claim 1, wherein the first end assembly comprises a fixed member movable between a deployed position or a retracted position by a user,

wherein, in the deployed position, the member extends beyond an upper surface of the first end assembly, and

wherein, in the retracted position, the fixation member is located below an upper surface of the first end assembly.

5. The lantern of claim 1, the battery compartment having a first end and a second end, wherein either end of the battery compartment may be positioned to operably contact the first end assembly without reconfiguring a battery compartment or circuitry contained within the portable lantern.

6. The lantern of claim 1, wherein the lighting element comprises an emitter assembly operably connected to a lighting element Printed Circuit Board (PCB), the emitter assembly comprising a plurality of individual emitters oriented toward the lens.

7. The lantern of claim 6, wherein the emitter assembly is a chip-on-board (COB) LED, and wherein the lens covers the entire COB LED.

8. The lantern of claim 6, wherein the emitter assembly overlies a middle portion of the lighting element PCB while exposing an upper end portion of the lighting element PCB electrically connected to a power supply PCB.

9. The lantern of claim 1, wherein an outer surface of the lens is substantially flush with an outer surface of the elongated rib.

10. The lantern of claim 1, the first end assembly comprising an upper housing operatively coupled to an upper end of the central body, the operating mode selector assembly comprising a mode selector slidably coupled to the upper housing, wherein a user moves a mode selector ring angularly relative to the upper housing to select which lighting element to illuminate during operation of the lantern.

11. The lantern of claim 10, wherein the mode selector is configured as a ring that overlaps a majority of the upper housing while an upper flange of the upper housing remains exposed, the upper flange including a lighting element indicia that indicates which lighting element is illuminated during operation of the lantern.

12. The lantern of claim 11, wherein the mode selector ring comprises a selection indicator configured to be aligned by an operator with the lighting element indicia to designate which lighting element is to be illuminated during operation of the lantern.

13. The lantern of claim 1, wherein the outer rib comprises a protrusion extending longitudinally beyond an upper end of the central body; and the number of the first and second electrodes,

wherein the first end assembly includes a power supply Printed Circuit Board (PCB) having at least one aperture, wherein the aperture is configured to receive the protrusion to mechanically couple the power supply PCB to the central body.

14. A portable lantern, comprising:

a central body defining an elongated receptacle, the central body comprising:

(i) a plurality of outer longitudinal ribs disposed along a length of the central body;

(ii) a plurality of longitudinal channels, wherein a single channel is located between a pair of outer ribs;

(iii) a plurality of lighting elements, wherein the lighting elements are located within the channel, and wherein the lighting elements do not include a reflector or secondary optics;

(iv) a plurality of lenses, wherein a lens overlies the lighting element and is located within the channel, wherein the lenses serve as primary optics and extend longitudinally along the central body; and the number of the first and second groups,

(v) a power source comprising a battery compartment and a plurality of batteries movably positioned within the battery compartment, wherein the power source is movably inserted into the receptacle of the central body;

a first end assembly operatively coupled to the central body, the lighting elements and the power source, the first end assembly including an operating mode selector assembly for selectively controlling which of the lighting elements are illuminated during operation of the portable lantern; and the number of the first and second groups,

a second end assembly operably coupled to the central body to enclose the power source within the receptacle of the central body.

15. The lantern of claim 14, wherein the second end assembly comprises a retractable stabilizing assembly movable between an extended position and a retracted position;

wherein, in the deployed position, an extent of the retractable stabilizing assembly extends radially beyond an outer diameter of the second end assembly, and

wherein, in the retracted position, the retractable stabilizing assembly remains within the outer diameter of the second end assembly and does not extend radially beyond the outer diameter of the second end assembly.

16. The lantern of claim 15, wherein a magnet is positioned within the retractable stabilizing assembly of the second end assembly.

17. The lantern of claim 14, wherein the first end assembly comprises a securing member movable by a user between a deployed position or a retracted position,

wherein, in the deployed position, the member extends beyond an upper surface of the first end assembly, and

wherein, in the retracted position, the fixation member is located below an upper surface of the first end assembly.

18. The lantern of claim 14, the battery compartment having a first end and a second end, wherein either end of the battery compartment is positionable to operably contact the first end assembly without reconfiguring a battery compartment or circuitry contained in the portable lantern.

19. The lantern of claim 14, wherein the lighting element comprises an emitter assembly operatively connected to a lighting element Printed Circuit Board (PCB), the emitter assembly being a chip-on-board (COB) LED.

20. The lantern of claim 19, wherein the emitter assembly overlies a middle portion of the lighting element PCB while exposing an upper end portion of the lighting element PCB that is electrically connected to a power supply PCB.

21. The lantern of claim 14, the first end assembly comprising an upper housing operatively coupled to an upper end of the central body, the operating mode selector assembly comprising a mode selector slidably coupled to the upper housing, wherein a user moves a mode selector ring angularly relative to the upper housing to select which lighting element is illuminated during operation of the lantern.

22. The lantern of claim 21, wherein the mode selector is configured as a ring that overlaps a majority of the upper housing while an upper flange of the upper housing remains exposed, the upper flange including a lighting element indicia that indicates which lighting element is illuminated during operation of the lantern.

23. The lantern of claim 14, wherein the outer rib comprises a protrusion extending longitudinally beyond an upper end of the central body; and the number of the first and second electrodes,

wherein the first end assembly includes a power supply Printed Circuit Board (PCB) having at least one aperture, and wherein the aperture is configured to receive a protrusion to mechanically couple the power supply PCB to the central body.

24. The lantern of claim 14, wherein the first end assembly further comprises a luminosity selector assembly for selectively controlling a lumen output of a lighting element selected for illumination during operation of the portable lantern.

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