Removable dual-mode lighting device and related headlight system

Abstract

Various embodiments of a lighting device are described that is removably attached to a head restraint or other mount to form a headlamp system. The lighting device includes a battery, a light emitting element, and a lighting device body, the lighting device body including an inner sleeve and an outer sleeve. The outer sleeve is adapted to slide along the lighting device body relative to the inner sleeve to switch the lighting device between the following modes: mode (a) is an area light operating mode in which light from the light emitting element is emitted from the side of the lighting device body, and mode (b) is a flashlight operating mode in which light from the light emitting element is emitted only from the front of the lighting device.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 843,608, filed on May 6, 2019, entitled “DETACHABLE DUAL-MODE LIGHTING DEVICE,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Art

[0003] Several forms of hands-free lighting exist. For example, lighting devices are often found mounted on helmets or headbands, which can prove useful in law enforcement, mining, construction, automotive, manufacturing, or other industries where hands-free lighting solutions are often needed. However, existing lighting devices typically include lighting elements that are fixed and cannot be removed from the helmet, headband, or other device. Some removable lighting devices exist; however, these lighting devices are not suitable for hands-free operation and are generally not easily removable or attachable to the helmet, headband, or other device. The operating modes of these lighting devices are also limited, which prevents the use of these lighting devices in various situations. Technical Field

[0004] The present invention relates to a portable lighting device. More particularly, the present invention relates to a lighting device that is removably attached to a head restraint or other suitable dock, wherein the lighting device can be switched between a lantern and a flashlight. Summary of the invention

[0005] The object of the present invention is to provide a lighting device which can overcome the defects in the prior art.

[0006] As embodied and generally described herein, in order to achieve these and other advantages and in accordance with the purposes of the present invention, a system is proposed, comprising: a head restraint; a lighting device configured to be detachably attached to the head restraint, the lighting device comprising: a battery; a light emitting element; and a lighting device body comprising an inner sleeve and an outer sleeve, wherein the outer sleeve is adapted to slide along the lighting device body relative to the inner sleeve so that the lighting device can be switched between the following modes (a) and (b): mode (a) is an area light operating mode, in which the light of the light emitting element is emitted from the side of the lighting device body; mode (b) is a flashlight operating mode, in which the light of the light emitting element is emitted only from the front of the lighting device.

[0007] In one embodiment, the head restraint includes at least one magnet and at least one electrical contact; the lighting device includes at least one magnet and at least one electrical contact; and the lighting device is sized and positioned so that when removably attached to the head restraint, the at least one magnet of the lighting device is magnetically coupled to the at least one magnet of the head restraint, and the at least one electrical contact of the lighting device is electrically coupled to the at least one electrical contact of the head restraint.

[0008] In one embodiment, the outer sleeve is at least partially transparent and the inner sleeve is opaque; the lighting device includes a lamp cup fixed to the outer sleeve so that the lamp cup and the outer sleeve slide relative to the inner sleeve; when the lighting device is switched to the area light operation mode, the lamp cup is in a first position causing the light of the light-emitting element to be emitted through the side of the outer sleeve; and when the lighting device is switched to the flashlight operation mode, the lamp cup is in a second position causing the light of the light-emitting element to be emitted only through the front of the lighting device.

[0009] In one embodiment, the head restraint includes a receiver cavity, a presence sensor positioned within the receiver cavity, a shell light emitting element, and a processing circuit; and the processing circuit is configured to turn on the shell light emitting element when the lighting device is moved away from the receiver cavity, and to turn off the shell light emitting element when the lighting device is positioned in the receiver cavity.

[0010] In one embodiment, the lighting device body also includes: a lighting device base, including a first recess positioned on a first side of the lighting device base and a second recess positioned on a second side of the lighting device base; a first hook pivotally connected to the lighting device base so that pivoting of the first hook nests the first hook in the first recess or retracts the first hook from the first recess; and a second hook pivotally connected to the lighting device base so that pivoting of the second hook nests the second hook in the second recess or retracts the second hook from the second recess.

[0011] In one embodiment, the first recess, the second recess, the first hook and the second hook are all semicircular.

[0012] In one embodiment, the lighting device further comprises a switch and a processing circuit, wherein the processing circuit is configured to switch the lighting element disposed in the housing between a plurality of lighting modes in response to manipulation of the switch.

[0013] In one embodiment, a battery of the lighting device is rechargeable; and the head restraint includes a processing circuit configured to recharge the battery of the lighting device in response to the lighting device being electrically coupled to the head restraint.

[0014] In one embodiment, the head restraint includes a receiver cavity; and the lighting device includes a lighting device base having a shape and size similar to the receiver cavity, such that the lighting device forms an interference fit with the receiver cavity.

[0015] In one embodiment, the outer sleeve includes a hole; the lighting device includes a switch protruding from the inner sleeve of the lighting device body, and the hole and the switch have similar size and shape; when the lighting device is switched to the flashlight operation mode, the switch is nested in the hole.

[0016] In another embodiment, the present invention provides a lighting device, which is constructed to be detachably attached to a seat, comprising: a battery; a light-emitting element; and a lighting device body, comprising an inner sleeve and an outer sleeve, wherein the outer sleeve is suitable for sliding along the lighting device body relative to the inner sleeve to enable the lighting device to switch between the following modes (a) and (b): mode (a) is an area light operation mode, in which the light of the light-emitting element is emitted from the side of the lighting device body; mode (b) is a flashlight operation mode, in which the light of the light-emitting element is emitted only from the front of the lighting device.

[0017] In one embodiment, the mount is a head restraint, the head restraint comprising at least one magnet and at least one electrical contact; the lighting device comprises at least one magnet and at least one electrical contact; and the lighting device is sized and positioned such that when removably attached to the head restraint, the at least one magnet of the lighting device is magnetically coupled to the at least one magnet of the head restraint, and the at least one electrical contact of the lighting device is electrically coupled to the at least one electrical contact of the head restraint.

[0018] In one embodiment, the outer sleeve is at least partially transparent and the inner sleeve is opaque; the lighting device includes a lamp cup fixed to the outer sleeve so that the lamp cup and the outer sleeve slide relative to the inner sleeve; when the lighting device is switched to the area light operation mode, the lamp cup is in a first position causing the light of the light-emitting element to be emitted through the side of the outer sleeve; and when the lighting device is switched to the flashlight operation mode, the lamp cup is in a second position causing the light of the light-emitting element to be emitted only through the front of the lighting device.

[0019] In one embodiment, the mount is a head restraint, the head restraint comprising a receiver cavity, a presence sensor positioned within the receiver cavity, a shell light emitting element, and a processing circuit; and the processing circuit is configured to turn on the shell light emitting element when the lighting device is moved away from the receiver cavity, and to turn off the shell light emitting element when the lighting device is positioned in the receiver cavity.

[0020] In one embodiment, the lighting device body also includes: a lighting device base, including a first recess positioned on a first side of the lighting device base and a second recess positioned on a second side of the lighting device base; a first hook pivotally connected to the lighting device base so that pivoting of the first hook nests the first hook in the first recess or retracts the first hook from the first recess; and a second hook pivotally connected to the lighting device base so that pivoting of the second hook nests the second hook in the second recess or retracts the second hook from the second recess.

[0021] In one embodiment, the first recess, the second recess, the first hook and the second hook are all semicircular.

[0022] In one embodiment, the lighting device further comprises a switch and a processing circuit, wherein the processing circuit is configured to switch the lighting element disposed in the housing between a plurality of lighting modes in response to manipulation of the switch.

[0023] In one embodiment, the battery of the lighting device is rechargeable; and the mount includes a processing circuit configured to recharge the battery of the lighting device in response to the lighting device being electrically coupled to the head restraint.

[0024] In one embodiment, the seat includes a receiver cavity; and the lighting device includes a lighting device base having a shape and size similar to the receiver cavity, so that the lighting device forms an interference fit with the receiver cavity.

[0025] In another embodiment, the present invention provides a method, comprising: providing a seat, wherein the seat includes a head protection device; and providing a lighting device that can be detachably attached to the head protection device, the lighting device comprising: a battery; a light-emitting element; and a lighting device body, comprising an inner sleeve and an outer sleeve, wherein the outer sleeve is suitable for sliding along the lighting device body relative to the inner sleeve to enable the lighting device to switch between the following modes (a) and (b): mode (a) is an area light operation mode, in which the light of the light-emitting element is emitted from the side of the lighting device body; mode (b) is a flashlight operation mode, in which the light of the light-emitting element is emitted only from the front of the lighting device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] Many aspects of the present disclosure may be better understood with reference to the following drawings. The components in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, but emphasis is placed on clearly illustrating the principles of the present disclosure. In addition, in the drawings, like reference numerals represent corresponding parts throughout the several views.

[0027] Figure 1 is a top perspective view of a lighting system having a head restraint device and a dual-mode lighting device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 2 According to various embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 1 A top view of the dual-mode lighting device in a second extended state.

[0029] Figure 3 According to various embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 1 A top view of a dual-mode lighting device in a first off state.

[0030] Figure 4 According to various embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 1 A top perspective view of a head restraint.

[0031] Figure 5 According to various embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 1 A top view of a dual-mode lighting device.

[0032] Figure 6 According to various embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 1 Side view of a dual-mode lighting device.

[0033] Figure 7 According to various embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 1 Rear view of the dual-mode lighting device.

[0034] Figure 8 According to various embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 1Front view of the dual-mode lighting device.

[0035] Fig. 9 According to various embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 1 A side cross-sectional view of a dual-mode lighting device.

[0036] Fig.10 According to various embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 1 Another side cross-sectional view of the dual-mode lighting device and the head restraint.

[0037] Fig.11 According to various embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 1 A stereoscopic view of a dual-mode lighting device in a first state and a second state.

[0038] Fig.12 According to various embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 1 A perspective view of a dual-mode lighting device in operation.

[0039] Fig.13 According to various embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 1 A perspective view of a dual-mode lighting device in operation.

[0040] Fig.14 According to various embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 1 A perspective view of a dual-mode lighting device in operation.

[0041] Fig.15 According to various embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 1 A side view of the head restraint relative to the power supply is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] The present disclosure relates to a lighting system including a lighting device removably attached to a head restraint or other suitable mount of a headlamp system. The lighting device of the lighting system is configured to mechanically switch between different operating modes. For example, the lighting device can be configured to switch between a flashlight and an area light such as a lantern based on sliding of an outer sleeve of the lighting device, as will be described.

[0043] Existing hands-free lighting devices typically include fixed lighting elements that cannot be removed from a helmet or headband. Although some devices include removable lighting elements, these devices are generally not optimal for hands-free lighting. For example, removing and reattaching the lighting elements in existing products is time-consuming and labor-intensive. In addition, these lighting elements are typically not rechargeable and require a fixed electrical connection. Providing a detachable and rechargeable lighting element that can be easily removed, attached, and fixed to a helmet, headband, or other head-mounted device presents significant technical challenges.

[0044] Thus, in various embodiments described herein, a lighting system is described, comprising: a head restraint or other mount; a lighting device configured to be removably attached to the head restraint or other mount. The lighting device comprises a battery, a light emitting element, and a lighting device body, the lighting device body comprising an inner sleeve and an outer sleeve. The outer sleeve is adapted to slide along the lighting device body relative to the inner sleeve to switch the lighting device between an area light operating mode, in which light from the light emitting element is emitted from the side of the lighting device body, and a flashlight operating mode, in which light from the light emitting element is emitted only from the front of the lighting device.

[0045] Furthermore, the head restraint may include at least one magnet and at least one electrical contact, the lighting device may include at least one magnet and at least one electrical contact, and the lighting device may be sized and positioned such that, when removably attached to the head restraint, the at least one magnet of the lighting device is magnetically coupled to the at least one magnet of the head restraint, and the at least one electrical contact of the lighting device is electrically coupled to the at least one electrical contact of the head restraint.

[0046] In some embodiments, the outer sleeve is at least partially transparent and the inner sleeve is opaque. The lighting device includes a lamp cup fixed to the outer sleeve so that the lamp cup and the outer sleeve slide relative to the inner sleeve. When the lighting device is switched to the area light operating mode, the lamp cup is in a first position causing light from the light emitting element to be emitted through the side of the outer sleeve. When the lighting device is switched to the flashlight operating mode, the lamp cup is in a second position causing light from the light emitting element to be emitted only through the front of the lighting device.

[0047] The head restraint may include a receiver cavity, a presence sensor positioned in the receiver cavity, a housing light element, and a processing circuit. The processing circuit may be configured to turn on the housing light element when the lighting device is removed from the receiver cavity, and to turn off the housing light element when the lighting device is positioned in the receiver cavity.

[0048] The lighting device body may further include: a lighting device base, the lighting device base including a first recess positioned on a first side of the lighting device base and a second recess positioned on a second side of the lighting device base; a first hook pivotably coupled to the lighting device base such that pivoting of the first hook nests the first hook in the first recess or retracts the first hook from the first recess; and a second hook pivotably coupled to the lighting device base such that pivoting of the second hook nests the second hook in the second recess or retracts the second hook from the second recess. According to some embodiments, the first recess, the second recess, the first hook, and the second hook are all semicircular in shape.

[0049] The lighting device may further include a switch and a processing circuit configured to switch the lighting element disposed within the housing between a plurality of lighting modes in response to manipulation of the switch.

[0050] The battery of the lighting device may be rechargeable, and the head restraint may include a processing circuit configured to recharge the battery of the lighting device in response to the lighting device being electrically coupled to the head restraint.

[0051] Additionally, the head restraint may include a receiver cavity, and the lighting device may include a lighting device base similar in shape and size to the receiver cavity such that the lighting device forms an interference fit with the receiver cavity.

[0052] The outer sleeve of the lighting device body may include a hole. The lighting device may include a switch protruding from the inner sleeve of the lighting device body, the hole and the switch having similar size and shape. When the lighting device is switched to the flashlight operation mode, the switch is nested in the hole.

[0053] A method is described, the method comprising: providing a seat, wherein the seat comprises a head restraint. The method further comprises providing a lighting device removably attached to the head restraint. The lighting device comprises: a battery; a light emitting element; a lighting device body comprising an inner sleeve and an outer sleeve, wherein the outer sleeve is adapted to slide along the lighting device body relative to the inner sleeve to switch the lighting device between an area light operating mode in which light from the light emitting element is emitted from the sides of the lighting device body and a flashlight operating mode in which light from the light emitting element is emitted only from the front of the lighting device.

[0054] Now turning to the attached figure, Figure 1 A non-limiting example of a lighting system 100 according to various embodiments described herein is shown. The lighting system 100 may include a headlamp system or a similar lighting system as may be understood. Thus, the lighting system 100 may include a lighting device 105 and a head restraint 110, wherein the lighting device 105 is detachably attached to (in other words, removably attached to) the head restraint 110. Although only the lighting device 105 and the head restraint 110 are shown in the various figures, it is understood that the lighting system 100 may also include additional components known in the field of headlamps, such as a belt, a power supply, a cord, a power adapter, a battery, etc., which are not shown for explanation purposes.

[0055] Referring first to the head restraint 110, the head restraint 110 may include a head restraint plate 115, a receiver housing 120, pivot knobs 125a, 125b (collectively referred to as "pivot knobs 125"), and other components to be described. The head restraint plate 115 may be integrally formed with the head restraint 110, meaning that the head restraint 110 is a single body that may be formed from plastic or other suitable material. Typically, the head restraint 110 is adapted to be worn on the head of an operator. For example, the head restraint plate 115 may be positioned on the forehead of an individual or on the front of a helmet, such as a construction helmet, skateboard helmet, or other helmet. Thus, from an ergonomic standpoint, the head restraint plate 115 may be mounted on or near the forehead of an individual or a helmet. In this way, the head restraint 110 may provide the operator with a hands-free source of illumination for a variety of uses. Although Figure 1 The embodiment includes a pivot knob 125, but it should be understood that the pivot knob 125 is an optional feature in various embodiments. For example, the location of the pivot knob 125 can instead be used as the location where the wires enter the head restraint 110 to connect to the processing circuit disposed therein.

[0056] However, in some cases, it is beneficial to have a handheld light source. For example, a handheld flashlight can provide a better light source in hard-to-reach places or various cavities and workspaces. Additionally, in some cases, such as when lighting a tent while camping, illuminating a workspace, or other uses, it may be desirable to provide area lighting. Thus, the lighting device 105 can be detached or removed from the head protection device 110 so that the lighting device 105 can be operated as a handheld light source similar to a flashlight or lantern, as described below.

[0057] In some embodiments, the head restraint 110 includes a receiver cavity 130 in which the lighting device 105 can be positioned and retained when connected to the head restraint 110. More specifically, the base of the lighting device 105 can be positioned in the receiver cavity 130 such that the base of the lighting device 105 is positioned and retained therein by a slight interference fit or a friction fit (also including or instead of magnetic coupling), as will be discussed.

[0058] To form a slight interference fit or friction fit, the receiver housing 120 can be sized and positioned so that the shape of the defined receiver cavity 130 substantially conforms to the shape of the base of the lighting device 105. In some embodiments, the receiver housing 120 includes a circular protrusion having a raised protruding top (protruding beyond the rest of the circular protrusion), also referred to as an overhang, which serves as a sleeve into which the lighting device 105 can be nested or otherwise positioned. Additionally, as Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, assuming that the base of the lighting device 105 includes a generally circular body, the receiver housing 120 and the receiver cavity 130 may also include a generally circular body. However, it is understood that the base of the lighting device 105 and the receiver cavity 130 may take other shapes.

[0059] However, in other embodiments, the lighting device 105 can be removably attached to the head restraint 110 without using the receiver cavity 130. For example, the lighting device 105 can be coupled to the head restraint 110 using only a magnetic connection, without being nested in a cavity or similar components. Additionally, in other embodiments, the lighting device 105 can include a cavity (not shown) located behind the device, as opposed to the head restraint 110, and the head restraint 110 includes a protrusion that is correspondingly nested in the cavity of the lighting device 105.

[0060] To facilitate removability and independent operation of the lighting device 105, the lighting device 105 can include a light source and a power source. For example, in some embodiments, the lighting device 105 can include one or more batteries that allow the lighting device 105 to power one or more light sources (such as one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs)), wherein the light source is independent of the power source of the lighting system 100 or other light sources.

[0061] The lighting device 105 includes a lighting device body 140. In some embodiments, the lighting device body 140 may include a longitudinally extending and substantially tubular body, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 In addition, the lighting device body 140 can include one or more recessed or protruding ridges 142 in various areas of the lighting device body 140 that facilitate gripping the lighting device 105. For example, the ridges 142 can be positioned on a lighting device base 145 or other suitable portion of the lighting device body 140. The lighting device body 140 can also include a lighting device base 145 that can be nested, housed, or otherwise positioned in the receiver housing 120, for example, when the head restraint 110 is used as a hands-free light source.

[0062] In some embodiments, the lighting device base 145 of the lighting device 105 includes male threads that correspondingly engage with female threads (not shown) located in the receiver housing 120, or vice versa. For example, the lighting device 105 can be positioned in the receiver housing 120 and rotated by an operator to form a threaded connection or other similar mechanical connection between the lighting device 105 and the head restraint 110. In other embodiments, the lighting device base 145 of the lighting device 105 includes female threads that engage with male threads (not shown) located in the receiver housing 120. The threaded connection formed between the lighting device 105 and the head restraint 110 can be replaced by or also include a magnetic connection, as described below.

[0063] The lighting device 105 may also include a switch 150 and a processing circuit (not shown). In some examples, the processing circuit may include a printed circuit board (PCB), an integrated circuit (IC), or a microcontroller with firmware or software installed thereon. Through the operation of the processing circuit, the switch 150 can switch the light source and / or the operating mode of the lighting device 105. For example, in some embodiments, an operator can manipulate the switch 150 to turn the light source on or off. In addition to or in lieu of switching the light source, the switch 150 can be manipulated to iterate through different lighting or operating modes. Different lighting or operating modes may include, for example, pulsing the light source (e.g., performing a strobe effect), providing a constant light source typical of a flashlight, changing the color of the light source, changing the luminous intensity of the light source, simply turning the light on or off, or other operations that can be imagined.

[0064] The lighting device body 140 may include an outer sleeve 155 and an inner sleeve 160. The outer sleeve 155 is adapted to be telescopic relative to the inner sleeve 160. In other words, the outer sleeve 155 may be slidably coupled to the inner sleeve 160 and / or the lighting device body 140. More specifically, with the inner sleeve 160 in a constant position, the outer sleeve 155 may be configured to slide in two opposite directions D1, D2 to switch the lighting device 105 between different states and / or operating modes. For example, the outer sleeve 155 may be adapted to slide in a first direction D1 to switch the lighting device 105 to an area light, in which light is emitted from a central area or a side of the lighting device body 140, such as Figure 2 As shown (e.g., the second state and / or the extended state), or the outer sleeve 155 can be adapted to slide in the second direction D2 to switch the lighting device 105 into a flashlight, wherein light is emitted only from the front of the lighting device 105, such as Figure 3 as shown (eg, a first state and / or a closed state).

[0065] As such, the outer sleeve 155 may be described as having a telescopic relationship relative to the inner sleeve 160 and / or the lighting device body 140. For example, Figure 1The embodiment of FIG. 1 shows the lighting device 105 in a second state, wherein the outer sleeve 155 is fully extended from the lighting device base 145, so that light can be emitted from a central area or the sides of the lighting device 105. Thus, the lighting device 105 can be used as an area light or a lantern.

[0066] The switch 150 may protrude from the lighting device body 140, or more specifically, the switch 150 may protrude from the surface of the inner sleeve 160. Figure 2 As shown, the outer sleeve 155 that slides relative to the inner sleeve 160 may include a hole 165 formed integrally with the outer sleeve 155, wherein the size and position of the hole 160 are such that when the inner sleeve 160 is fully nested in the outer sleeve 155, the switch 150 is nested in the hole 165 of the outer sleeve 155, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 shown.

[0067] Additionally, the lighting device 105 may include a frame 170, a lens 175, a reflector (not shown), a lighting element (also referred to as a light source), a power source (e.g., a rechargeable battery), and other components that are typically present in a flashlight or lantern and are not described herein. The lens 175 may include a partially or fully transparent lens 175 so that light can be emitted through the lens, for example, when the lighting device 105 is switched to a flashlight operating mode. In some embodiments, the perimeter of the frame 170 may be equal to or greater than the perimeter of the lighting device body 140, such as Figure 1 In addition, in some embodiments, the light source may include one or more light bulbs or LEDs.

[0068] The rear side of the lighting device body 140 may include at least one contact pad adapted to magnetically and / or electrically couple the lighting device 105 to the head restraint 110 or other mount (e.g., a bicycle mount, a tent mount, etc.) to be powered directly by a power source of the head restraint 110 or other mount, or to be recharged directly by a power source, as will be described. Additionally, in some embodiments, the lighting device 105 may be sized and positioned such that when positioned in the receiver cavity 130, a magnet of the lighting device 105 magnetically couples with a magnet of the head restraint 110, thereby causing one or more electrical contacts of the lighting device 105 to align and electrically couple with one or more electrical contacts of the head restraint 110. The magnet of the head restraint 110 may include a magnetic metal plate, or alternatively, in some embodiments, the magnet of the lighting device 105 may include a magnetic metal plate.

[0069] In other embodiments, the lighting device 105 may include a first battery and the head restraint 110 includes a power supply housing having a second battery. The head restraint 110 may include a processing circuit electrically coupled to the second battery, wherein the processing circuit is configured to power or charge the first battery of the lighting device 105 when the lighting device 105 is located in the receiver cavity 130 and an electrical connection is formed therebetween.

[0070] In some embodiments, the receiver cavity 130 may also include a presence sensor configured to identify the presence of the lighting device 105 in the receiver cavity, as will be described. Thus, for example, in response to the presence sensor identifying the presence of the lighting device 105 relative to the head restraint 110 or other mount, the processing circuitry of the head restraint 110 may power or charge the battery of the lighting device 105.

[0071] In various embodiments, the lighting device 105 can also include processing circuitry configured to switch between different operating modes. In addition to functioning as an area light and / or flashlight, the different operating modes can also include at least one of pulsing the light source of the lighting device, providing constant light from the light source, changing the color of the light source, or changing the luminous intensity of the light source. It should be understood that all or part of the components of the head restraint 110 can be part of another type of mount, such as a mount secured to a tent, sporting equipment, a vehicle, etc.

[0072] Now refer to Figure 4 , showing Figure 1 1 is an enlarged perspective view of the head restraint 110. In addition to the above components, the head restraint 110 may also include a receiver magnet 180 and a presence sensor 185. The receiver magnet 180 may be positioned in the receiver housing 120, or more specifically, in the receiver cavity 130, such that when the lighting device 105 is positioned in the receiver cavity 130, a magnetic coupling is formed between the lighting device 105 and the magnets of the receiver magnet 180. It will be appreciated that the magnetic coupling holds the lighting device 105 in the receiver cavity 130 until a predetermined amount of force is applied to remove the lighting device from the receiver cavity 130. In some embodiments, the receiver magnet 180 includes an annular or circular magnet positioned in the inner surface of the receiver housing 120. However, the receiver magnet 180 may take other shapes and sizes.

[0073] The receiver magnet 180 may have an outer surface that is exposed in the receiver cavity 130. However, in alternative embodiments, the receiver magnet 180 may be disposed below a surface of the head restraint 110, for example, below a plastic surface in the receiver cavity 130, such as Figure 4In other words, in some embodiments, the forward-facing surface of the receiver magnet 180 is not exposed to the front surface of the head restraint 110. However, it should be understood that the one or more receiver magnets 180 can still provide sufficient magnetic force for coupling the lighting device 105 to the head restraint 110. The one or more receiver magnets 180 may include, for example, Figure 4 The ring magnets or other shaped receiver magnets 180 are shown positioned at various strategic positions on the forward facing portion of the head restraint 110 .

[0074] The presence sensor 185 may include a mechanical, optical, resistance-based, or other suitable sensor for detecting the presence of the lighting device 105 in the receiver cavity 130, or the absence of the lighting device. For example, based on a corresponding control circuit, the presence sensor 185 may trigger a light source positioned in the receiver cavity 130 to turn on the light source when the lighting device 105 is removed from the receiver cavity 130, or to turn off the light source when the lighting device 105 is returned or otherwise positioned in the receiver cavity 130.

[0075] To this end, the presence sensor 185 can protrude from the inner surface of the receiver cavity 130 such that when the lighting device 105 is positioned in the receiver cavity 130, a force is applied to the presence sensor 185 (e.g., causing the presence sensor 185 to retract into the body of the head restraint 110), which indicates the presence of the lighting device 105. Among other things, in various embodiments, the presence of the lighting device 105 can be detected based on a change in resistance, impedance, capacitance, amount of light emitted, etc.

[0076] Additionally, in some embodiments, the presence sensor 185 can be formed of an electrically conductive material such as copper or other suitable conductive material, such that the presence sensor 185 is also an electrical contact 188. As such, one or more electrical contacts positioned behind the lighting device 105 can form an electrical connection with the presence sensor 185, such that the lighting device 105 can be charged using a power source electrically coupled to the head restraint 110. Additionally, it is understood that the head restraint 110 can include other electrical contacts separate from the presence sensor 185 for forming an electrical connection with the lighting device 105.

[0077] In addition, the lighting device base 145 of the lighting device 105 can be retained in the receiver cavity 130 so that any torque or force applied to the distal top or distal bottom of the lighting device 105 can cause the receiver housing 120 to pivot about the axis α1. It is worth noting that the pivoting does not cause the lighting device 105 to be detached from the head restraint 110. In addition, in some embodiments, the pivot knob 125 can be turned in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction or otherwise manipulated by the operator to pivot the receiver housing 120 and the lighting device 105 positioned therein about the axis α1.

[0078] Figure 5 Show Figure 1 A top view of the lighting device 105 is shown. Figure 6 1 shows a side view of a lighting device 105 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. Specifically, Figure 5 The lighting device 105 is shown with the outer sleeve 155 fully extended along the first direction D1, wherein the lighting device 105 is switched to area light, wherein light is emitted from the central area or the side of the lighting device body 140 (eg, the second state). Figure 6 The lighting device 105 is shown with the outer sleeve 155 fully retracted in the second direction D2, wherein the lighting device 105 is in a second state for use as a flashlight, wherein light is emitted only from the front side 200 of the lighting device 105 (eg, the first state).

[0079] Now refer to Figure 7 , showing a rear view of the lighting device 105 according to various embodiments. The lighting device 105 can include one or more magnets 210 and / or one or more electrical contacts 215 positioned on the rear side of the lighting device body 140. The magnets 210 can be sized and positioned to magnetically couple to corresponding magnets on the head restraint 110, thereby magnetically coupling the lighting device 105 to the head restraint 110 or the mount. For example, the magnets 210 of the lighting device 105 can be magnetically coupled to the receiver magnet 180, such as Figure 4 As shown. The magnet 210 is shown in phantom and can be disposed below the rear surface of the lighting device body 140, for example, below the plastic surface. In other words, in some embodiments, the surface of the magnet 210 is not exposed on the rear surface of the lighting device 105. However, it should be understood that one or more magnets 210 can still provide sufficient magnetic force for coupling the lighting device 105 to the head restraint 110. The one or more magnets 210 can include, for example, Fig.10 The ring-shaped magnets or other shaped magnets 210 are shown positioned at various strategic locations behind the lighting device 105 .

[0080] Similarly, the electrical contacts 215 can be sized and positioned to electrically couple to corresponding electrical contacts positioned in the receiver cavity 130 or otherwise positioned on the head restraint 110, such as the presence sensor 185. Thus, for example, when the lighting device 105 is positioned in the receiver cavity 130, the rear side of the lighting device 105 is adapted to electrically and / or magnetically couple the lighting device 105 to a mount, such as the head restraint 110. Figure 8 A front view of the lighting device 105 is shown in FIG.

[0081] In various embodiments, the electrical contacts 215 include three electrical contacts 215, although other suitable numbers of electrical contacts 215 may be used. Figure 7 In the example of , the electrical contact 215 includes a first electrical contact 215a having a semicircular or arc shape, a second electrical contact 215b having a semicircular or arc shape opposite to the shape of the first electrical contact 215a, and a third circular electrical contact 215c protruding from the rear surface of the lighting device 105. In some embodiments, the first electrical contact 215a may include a positive (+) terminal, the second electrical contact 215b may include a negative (-) terminal (or vice versa), and the third electrical contact 215c may include a ground terminal, respectively. However, it should be understood that the electrical contacts 215 may adopt other shapes and arrangements.

[0082] Next, refer to Fig. 9 , showing various embodiments according to the present disclosure Figure 1 A side cross-sectional view of the lighting device 105. Fig. 9 In the cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 , the lighting device 105 may further include a lamp cup 220 and a light-emitting element, such as an LED 225 or other suitable light-emitting element. The lighting device 105 may further include an LED circuit board 230, a battery 235, and a circuit board 240 (e.g., a printed circuit board or PCB). In addition, Fig. 9 1 and 2 , the inner sleeve 160, the outer sleeve 155, the switch 150, the frame 170, the one or more magnets 210a, 210b, the electrical contacts 215, and other components of the lighting device 105 are shown. In some embodiments, the LED 225 and the LED circuit board 230 are integrally formed, meaning that the LED circuit board 230 can have the LED 225 embedded on a common substrate. However, various embodiments are not limited to the foregoing.

[0083] In some embodiments, the battery 235 may include a rechargeable battery. To this end, when the lighting device 105 is coupled to the head restraint 110 or other suitable mount, an electrical connection is established with the lighting device 105 and the battery 235 can be recharged. The battery 235 may include a lithium-ion, nickel-cadmium, or other suitable type of battery 235.

[0084] As described above, the outer sleeve 155 of the lighting device 105 slides relative to the inner sleeve 160. In various embodiments, the outer sleeve 155 can include a transparent or partially transparent body to allow light to pass through. For example, in some embodiments, the outer sleeve 155 includes a frosted diffused body, wherein the outer sleeve 155 is at least partially transparent. It should be understood that according to some embodiments described herein, other textures besides frosted diffusion can be used, as long as the frosted outer sleeve 155 is at least partially transparent.

[0085] On the other hand, the inner sleeve 160 can be substantially opaque. Fig.10 When the outer sleeve 155 is fully extended relative to the fixed inner sleeve 160, the LED 225 is separated from the lamp cup 220. By separating the LED 225 from the lamp cup 220, the light emitted by the LED 225 diffuses through the frosted plastic body, thereby generating area light, such as Fig.13 and Fig.14 shown.

[0086] On the other hand, when the outer sleeve 155 slides in the second direction D2 so that the outer sleeve 155 is completely retracted relative to the fixed inner sleeve 160, the LED 225 is engaged with the lamp cup 220, as shown in FIG. Fig. 9 The engagement of the lamp cup 220 and the LED 225 causes the light emitted by the LED 225 to diffuse through the front of the lighting device 105, thereby acting as a flashlight, such as Fig.12 shown.

[0087] In other words, when the lighting device 105 switches to the area lighting operation mode, Fig.10 As shown, the lamp cup 205 is in the first position so that the light of the LED 225 or other light-emitting element is emitted through the side of the outer sleeve 160, and when the lighting device 105 is switched to the flashlight operation mode, the lamp cup 205 is in the second position so that the light of the light-emitting element is emitted only through the front of the lighting device 105 (e.g., through the lens 175), as shown in FIG. Fig. 9 Therefore, the lamp cup 220 can be coupled to the outer sleeve 155 or integrated with the outer sleeve, so that the lamp cup 220 together with the outer sleeve 155 slides relative to the inner sleeve 160.

[0088] Continue to refer to Fig.10, a side cross-sectional view of the lighting device 105 is shown relative to a side cross-sectional view of the head restraint 110 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. The head restraint 110 may include one or more LEDs 250. In one or more embodiments, the LED 250 may include a chip-on-board LED (COB LED), which may include a printed circuit board or similar substrate on which the LED is integrally disposed and processing circuitry. In some embodiments, the LED 250 may include an auxiliary lighting source independent of the lighting device 105. In some embodiments, the LED 250 need not be integrally formed with or disposed on a substrate of a circuit board.

[0089] The LEDs 250 may include, for example, one or more LEDs positioned annularly around the perimeter of another substrate, a circuit board, or in another suitable arrangement. In the case where the LEDs 250 are COB LEDs, the circuit board of the LEDs 250 may include processing circuitry configured to turn on one or more LEDs 250 or other housing LEDs when the lighting device 105 is removed from the receiver cavity 130, and to turn off the LEDs 250 when the lighting device 105 is inserted into the receiver cavity 130 or otherwise coupled to the head restraint 110. It should be understood that the presence of the lighting device 105 or its absence may be detected by the presence sensor 185. Thus, in some embodiments, the head restraint 110 may provide light independent of the lighting device 105.

[0090] In various embodiments, the receiver cavity 130 of the head restraint 110 may include the first electrical contact 188 and the first magnet 180 positioned therein. The lighting device 105 may be adapted to be positioned in the receiver cavity 130 of the head restraint 110, wherein the lighting device 105 includes the second electrical contact 215 and the second magnet 210. The lighting device 105 may be sized and positioned such that when positioned in the receiver cavity 130, the second magnet 210 of the lighting device 105 is magnetically coupled to the first magnet 180 of the head restraint 110, and the second electrical contact 215 of the lighting device 105 is electrically coupled to, for example, the first electrical contact 188 of the head restraint 110 positioned in the receiver cavity 130.

[0091] Fig.111 is a perspective view of lighting devices 105a, 105b shown in a first state and a second state, respectively, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. More specifically, the first lighting device 105a is shown in a first state or operating mode, wherein the first lighting device 105a can be used as a flashlight. Conversely, the second lighting device 105b is shown in a second state or operating mode, wherein the second lighting device 105b can be used as an area light or a lantern. Therefore, in various embodiments, the lighting devices 105 described herein can be referred to as dual-mode or multi-mode lighting devices 105.

[0092] Fig.12 is a perspective view of the lighting device 105 in a first operating mode, wherein the lighting device 105 is used as a flashlight. Fig.13 and Fig.14 is a perspective view of the lighting device 105 in a second mode of operation, wherein the lighting device 105 is configured for use as a lantern or area light. Of note, light is shown emitting through the outer sleeve 155, which is partially transparent.

[0093] At least a portion of the body of the lighting device 105, such as the outer sleeve 155, may include a frosted body shell. The frosted body shell may be fully or partially transparent. In some embodiments, the back side of the lighting device body 140, or more specifically, the lighting device base 145 may include a first recess 258a and a second recess 258b. The first hook 260a and the second hook 260b may be pivotally coupled to the lighting device base 145 so that the first hook 260a is removably positioned in the first recess 258a and the second hook 260b is removably positioned in the second recess 258b. In other embodiments, the lighting device base 145 may include a center piece surrounding the lighting device base 145, the diameter of the center piece being, for example, greater than the diameter of the lighting device base 145. In this embodiment, opposite the lighting device base 145, the first hook 260a and the second hook 260b are pivotally coupled to the center piece such that the first hook 260a is removably positioned within the first recess 258a and the second hook 260b is removably positioned within the second recess 258b.

[0094] In some examples, the first hook 260a and the second hook 260b can include semicircular hooks, and the first hole 258a and the second hole 258b can include semicircular holes. For example, the lighting device 105 can include a first semicircular hook 260a and a second semicircular hook 260b pivotably coupled to the lighting device base 145, so that the semicircular hooks 260 can be nested in holes (e.g., annular holes) of the lighting device base 145 or pulled outward to hang the lighting device 105 from a tree, tent, hook, or other suitable device.

[0095] In some embodiments, the foldable semicircular hook 260 can be formed of a magnetic material so that the semicircular hook 260 contacts a corresponding magnet (not shown) of the head restraint 110 or other mount, thereby creating or increasing a magnetic connection with the head restraint 110 or other mount. It is understood that the semicircular recess 258 and the semicircular hook 260 can take other shapes besides a semicircular shape as desired. Fig.13 The hook 260 is shown in a hanging mode of operation, while Fig.14 The hook 260 is shown nested in the lighting device base 145.

[0096] Continue to refer to Fig.15 , shows a side view of a head restraint 110 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the head restraint being electrically coupled to a power supply housing 300. As described above, the head restraint 110 can be positioned on the forehead or front of an operator's helmet or hat. In some embodiments, the power supply housing 300 can be positioned on the rear of an operator's head or helmet via a rear head restraint 305. It will be appreciated that the head restraint 110 and the rear head restraint 305 can be coupled to each other via one or more straps, which are not shown for illustration purposes.

[0097] The power supply housing 300 may include one or more batteries stored therein. Thus, for example, when the lighting device 105 is positioned in the receiver cavity 130, the power supply may power the circuitry of the head restraint 110 as well as directly power the LEDs 225 and the circuitry of the lighting device 105 (bypassing the battery of the lighting device 105). Additionally, the battery of the power supply housing 300 may be used to recharge the battery 235 of the lighting device 105. In some embodiments, the power supply of the power supply housing 190 is electrically coupled to the head restraint 110 via the wire 310 or other suitable electrical connection mechanism. As such, the power supply in the power supply housing 300 may be described as being electrically coupled to a circuit board of the head restraint 110, such as the battery of the head restraint 110. Fig.10 shown.

[0098] The power housing 300 may include a power button (not shown) that switches the lighting device 105, for example, when the lighting device 105 is attached to the head restraint 110. Additionally, for example, when the lighting device 105 is removed and not coupled to the head restraint 110, the power button may control the operation of the LED 250 (e.g., "on," "off," "pulse," etc.).

[0099] Although relative terms such as "upper" and "lower" are used in this specification to describe the relative relationship between one component of the illustration and another component, these terms are used in this specification only for convenience, for example, according to the direction of the examples described in the drawings. It is understood that if the device is turned upside down, the component described as "upper" will become the component "lower". When a structure is "on" or "positioned on" another structure, it can mean that one structure is formed integrally on the other structure, or one structure is "directly" arranged on the other structure, or one structure is "indirectly" arranged on the other structure through other structures.

[0100] The terms "a", "an", "the", and "said" are used to indicate the presence of one or more elements, components, etc. The terms "including" and "having" are used to indicate open inclusion and mean that there may be other elements, components, etc. in addition to the listed elements, components, etc. The terms "first", "second", etc. are used only as labels and are not intended to limit the number of objects. It should be understood that if the specification describes multiple components, each of these components may be referred to as a first component, a second component, etc.

[0101] It should be emphasized that the above-mentioned embodiments of the present disclosure are only possible examples of implementation methods set forth for a clear understanding of the principles of the present disclosure. Many changes and modifications may be made to the above-mentioned embodiments without substantially departing from the spirit and principles of the present disclosure. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure and are protected by the following claims.

Claims

1. A system comprising: A head restraint device including a first power source; A lighting device configured to be detachably attached to the head restraint, the lighting device comprising: a second power source, different from the first power source; a light emitting element; and The lighting device body comprises an inner sleeve and an outer sleeve, wherein the outer sleeve is adapted to slide along the lighting device body relative to the inner sleeve so that the lighting device can be switched between the following modes: mode a is an area light operation mode, in which the light of the light emitting element is emitted from the side of the lighting device body; mode b is a flashlight operation mode, in which the light of the light emitting element is emitted only from the front of the lighting device. The head restraint further comprises a processing circuit, wherein when the lighting device is detachably attached to the head restraint, the processing circuit is configured to use the first power source to supply power to the second power source or charge the second power source.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein: The head restraint comprises at least one magnet and at least one electrical contact; The lighting device comprises at least one magnet and at least one electrical contact; and The lighting device is sized and positioned such that when removably attached to the head restraint, at least one magnet of the lighting device magnetically couples to at least one magnet of the head restraint and at least one electrical contact of the lighting device electrically couples to at least one electrical contact of the head restraint.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein: The outer sleeve is at least partially transparent and the inner sleeve is opaque; The lighting device comprises a lamp cup fixed to the outer sleeve so that the lamp cup together with the outer sleeve slides relative to the inner sleeve; When the lighting device is switched to the area light operation mode, the lamp cup is in a first position so that the light of the light emitting element is emitted through the side of the outer sleeve; and When the lighting device is switched to the flashlight operating mode, the lamp cup is in the second position so that the light of the light emitting element is emitted only through the front of the lighting device.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein: The head restraint includes a receiver cavity, a presence sensor positioned within the receiver cavity, a housing light emitting element, and another processing circuit; and The further processing circuit is configured to turn on the housing light element when the lighting device is removed from the receiver cavity and to turn off the housing light element when the lighting device is positioned in the receiver cavity.

5. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The lighting device body also includes: a lighting device base comprising a first recess positioned on a first side of the lighting device base and a second recess positioned on a second side of the lighting device base; a first hook pivotably coupled to the lighting device base such that pivoting of the first hook nests the first hook in the first recess or retracts the first hook from the first recess; and A second hook is pivotably coupled to the lighting device base such that pivoting of the second hook nests the second hook in the second recess or retracts the second hook from the second recess.

6. The system according to claim 5, wherein: The first recess, the second recess, the first hook, and the second hook are all semicircular.

7. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The lighting device also includes a switch and another processing circuit configured to cause the lighting device to switch between a plurality of lighting modes in response to manipulation of the switch.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein: The first power source is at least one first battery, and The second power source is at least one second rechargeable battery.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein: The head restraint includes a receiver cavity; and The lighting device includes a lighting device base having a shape and size similar to the receiver cavity such that the lighting device forms an interference fit with the receiver cavity.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein: The outer sleeve includes a hole; The lighting device includes a switch protruding from the inner sleeve of the lighting device body, the hole and the switch having similar size and shape; When the lighting device is switched to the flashlight operation mode, the switch is nested in the hole.

11. A lighting device configured to be removably attached to a mount, the mount comprising a first power source, the lighting device comprising: a second power source, different from the first power source; Light emitting element; as well as The lighting device body comprises an inner sleeve and an outer sleeve, wherein the outer sleeve is adapted to slide along the lighting device body relative to the inner sleeve so that the lighting device can be switched between the following modes: mode a is an area light operation mode, in which the light of the light emitting element is emitted from the side of the lighting device body; mode b is a flashlight operation mode, in which the light of the light emitting element is emitted only from the front of the lighting device. The base further comprises a processing circuit, wherein when the lighting device is detachably attached to the base, the processing circuit is configured to use the first power source to supply power to the second power source or charge the second power source, Wherein the seat is a head restraint, the head restraint comprising a head restraint plate.

12. The lighting device according to claim 11, wherein: The seat includes at least one magnet and at least one electrical contact; The lighting device comprises at least one magnet and at least one electrical contact; and The lighting device is sized and positioned such that when removably attached to the mount, at least one magnet of the lighting device magnetically couples to at least one magnet of the mount and at least one electrical contact of the lighting device electrically couples to at least one electrical contact of the mount.

13. The lighting device according to claim 11, wherein: The outer sleeve is at least partially transparent and the inner sleeve is opaque; The lighting device comprises a lamp cup fixed to the outer sleeve so that the lamp cup together with the outer sleeve slides relative to the inner sleeve; When the lighting device is switched to the area light operation mode, the lamp cup is in a first position so that the light of the light emitting element is emitted through the side of the outer sleeve; and When the lighting device is switched to the flashlight operating mode, the lamp cup is in the second position so that the light of the light emitting element is emitted only through the front of the lighting device.

14. The lighting device according to claim 11, wherein: The head restraint includes a receiver cavity, a presence sensor positioned within the receiver cavity, a housing light emitting element, and another processing circuit; and The further processing circuit is configured to turn on the housing light element when the lighting device is removed from the receiver cavity and to turn off the housing light element when the lighting device is positioned in the receiver cavity.

15. The lighting device according to claim 11, wherein: The lighting device body also includes: a lighting device base comprising a first recess positioned on a first side of the lighting device base and a second recess positioned on a second side of the lighting device base; a first hook pivotably coupled to the lighting device base such that pivoting of the first hook nests the first hook in the first recess or retracts the first hook from the first recess; and A second hook is pivotably coupled to the lighting device base such that pivoting of the second hook nests the second hook in the second recess or retracts the second hook from the second recess.

16. The lighting device according to claim 15, wherein: The first recess, the second recess, the first hook, and the second hook are all semicircular.

17. The lighting device according to claim 11, wherein: The lighting device also includes a switch and another processing circuit configured to cause the lighting device to switch between a plurality of lighting modes in response to manipulation of the switch.

18. The lighting device according to claim 11, wherein: The first power source is at least one first battery, and The second power source is at least one second rechargeable battery.

19. The lighting device according to claim 11, wherein: The seat includes a receiver cavity; and The lighting device includes a lighting device base having a shape and size similar to the receiver cavity such that the lighting device forms an interference fit with the receiver cavity.

20. A method comprising: providing a seat, wherein the seat includes a head restraint, the head restraint including a first power source; and A lighting device is provided that is removably attached to the head restraint, the lighting device comprising: a second power source, different from the first power source; a light emitting element; and The lighting device body comprises an inner sleeve and an outer sleeve, wherein the outer sleeve is adapted to slide along the lighting device body relative to the inner sleeve so that the lighting device can be switched between the following modes: mode a is an area light operation mode, in which the light of the light emitting element is emitted from the side of the lighting device body; mode b is a flashlight operation mode, in which the light of the light emitting element is emitted only from the front of the lighting device. The head restraint further comprises a processing circuit, wherein when the lighting device is detachably attached to the head restraint, the processing circuit is configured to use the first power source to supply power to the second power source or charge the second power source.

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