Clamping mirror light

Abstract

A universal clamp (104) includes a first jaw (502), a guide (506), a second jaw (504), an adjustment mechanism (514), and a coupler (512). The first jaw (502) has a first clamping surface (508). The guide (506) is coupled to the first jaw (502). The second jaw (504) has a second clamping surface (510). The second jaw (504) is adjustably coupled to the guide (506) to move relative to the first jaw (502), wherein the first clamping surface (508) is oriented to face the second clamping surface (510). The adjustment mechanism (514) adjusts and fixes the first jaw (502) relative to the second jaw (504). The coupler (512) is coupled to at least one of the first jaw (502) and the second jaw (504). The coupler (512) is configured to facilitate attachment of a structure to the universal clamp (104).

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 801,806, filed on February 6, 2019 by Lynn Hodges et al., entitled “CLAMPING MIRRORLIGHT,” which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] field

[0004] The present invention relates to clamp mounting accessories and, in particular, to clamp mirror lights.

[0005] background

[0006] Accessories provide enhanced functionality or an improved user experience by incorporating separate or supplemental equipment in addition to or as a replacement for standard equipment. Accessories may couple to existing mounting locations or may include mounting hardware that facilitates installation of the accessory.

[0007] Overview

[0008] A universal clamp includes a first jaw, a guide, a second jaw, an adjustment mechanism, and a coupler. The first jaw has a first clamping surface. The guide is coupled to the first jaw. The second jaw has a second clamping surface. The second jaw is adjustably coupled to the guide to move relative to the first jaw, wherein the first clamping surface is oriented to face the second clamping surface. The adjustment mechanism adjusts and fixes the first jaw relative to the second jaw. The coupler is coupled to at least one of the first jaw and the second jaw. The coupler is configured to facilitate attachment of a structure to the universal clamp.

[0009] A system is also disclosed. The system includes a universal clamp and a mirror light. The universal clamp is adjustable to clamp a plurality of mounting structures, each mounting structure having a different geometric configuration at a clamping position. The universal clamp includes a first jaw, a guide, a second jaw, an adjustment mechanism, and a coupler. The first jaw has a first clamping surface. The guide is coupled to the first jaw. The second jaw has a second clamping surface. The second jaw is adjustably connected to the guide to move relative to the first jaw, wherein the first clamping surface is oriented to face the second clamping surface. The adjustment mechanism adjusts and fixes the first jaw relative to the second jaw. The coupler is connected to at least one of the first jaw and the second jaw. The coupler is configured to facilitate attachment of the structure to the universal clamp. The mirror light is coupled to the universal clamp. The mirror light includes a base, a mirror, a first lighting element, and a second lighting element. The base includes a first side and a second side opposite to the first side. The mirror is arranged on the first side of the base. The first lighting element is arranged on the second side of the base. The second lighting element is arranged on the second side of the base and is oriented at a certain angle relative to the first lighting element.

[0010] A method is also disclosed. The method includes forming a first jaw having a first clamping surface. The method also includes forming a second jaw having a second clamping surface. The method also includes arranging a guide to position the first jaw relative to the second jaw and allow the first jaw to move relative to the second jaw, the first clamping surface being oriented to face the second clamping surface. The method also includes aligning an adjustment mechanism to adjust and fix the first jaw relative to the second jaw. The method also includes connecting a connector to at least one of the first jaw and the second jaw, the connector being shaped to facilitate attachment of the structure to the universal clamp. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] In order to readily understand the advantages of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention briefly described above will be given with reference to specific embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, the present invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0013] Figure 1 is a front perspective view showing one embodiment of a system;

[0014] Figure 2 It further shows Figure 1 A side perspective view of one embodiment of a mirror in a system;

[0015] Figure 3 It is shown Figure 1 A top perspective view of one embodiment of a system;

[0016] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 1 A rear perspective view of one embodiment of a system;

[0017] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of one embodiment of a universal fixture in a system of FIG.

[0018] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of another embodiment of a universal fixture in a system;

[0019] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Exploded view of the universal fixture;

[0020] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 A front perspective view of another embodiment of a mirror in a system of; and

[0021] Fig. 9 is a flow chart of one embodiment of a method.

[0022] Detailed Description

[0023] Embodiments described herein relate to a clip-on mirror light for a vehicle. Embodiments of the clip-on mirror light provide an adjustable viewing mirror with an integrated light source to provide illumination over a wider angle without the need to install and align multiple mountable components.

[0024] Figure 1 A front view of a clamp mirror light 100 is shown. The clamp mirror light 100 includes a mirror light 102 and a universal clamp 104. The mirror light 102 includes a base 106. The base 106 includes a first side 108 and a second side 110 opposite the first side 108. In the illustrated embodiment, the second side 110 is visible, while the first side 108 is located on the opposite side of the mirror light 102 and is not directly in front of the mirror light 102. Figure 1 Shown in.

[0025] In some embodiments, the mirror light 102 includes a mirror disposed on a first side 108 to provide visibility to the driver or other occupants of the vehicle. The mirror light 102 further includes a first lighting element 112 disposed on a second side 110 of the base 106. The mirror light 102 also includes a second lighting element 114. The second lighting element 114 is disposed on the second side 110 of the base 106 and is oriented at an angle relative to the first lighting element 112. The relative angles of the first lighting element 112 and the second lighting element 114 can provide illumination over a wider range than can be achieved with standard onboard lighting of the vehicle, and a wider range than can be achieved with other stand-alone systems.

[0026] In some embodiments, at least one of the first lighting element 112 and the second lighting element 114 is an array or group of a plurality of light sources 116. In some embodiments, the first lighting element 112 is a group of flat light sources 116, wherein all of the light sources 116 are positioned to direct light in the same direction. Similarly, some embodiments of the second lighting element 114 form a group of flat light sources 116 to direct light in a direction that is angled relative to the direction of the first lighting element 112.

[0027] In the illustrated embodiment, the first lighting element 112 and the second lighting element 114 each include six light sources 116. In other embodiments, the first lighting element 112 and the second lighting element 114 each include less than six light sources 116. In some embodiments, the first lighting element 112 and the second lighting element 114 each include more than six light sources 116.

[0028] The first lighting element 112 and the second lighting element 114 may include a similar or different number of light sources 116. For example, the first lighting element 112 may include fewer light sources 116 than the second lighting element 114. In some embodiments, different colors, fluxes, patterns, etc. may be incorporated into one or both of the first lighting element 112 and the second lighting element 114. For example, one or more light sources 116 may provide turn signal lighting, high beam lighting, spot lighting, flood lighting, etc.

[0029] Although each of the first lighting element 112 and the second lighting element 114 is shown as a single unified group of light sources 116, other embodiments may separate one or both of the first lighting element 112 and the second lighting element 114 into separate sub-arrays or individual light sources 116 that point in the direction of a corresponding one of the first lighting element 112 and the second lighting element 114. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the first lighting element 112 includes all corresponding light sources 116 in a single housing 120, while in other embodiments, the first lighting element 112 includes light sources 116 in separate housings 120, wherein the light sources 116 in each housing point in the same direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the light sources 116 are arranged in a rectangular 2x3 format for both the first lighting element 112 and the second lighting element 114. In other embodiments, the light sources 116 may be arranged in other patterns, shapes, heights, etc.

[0030] In the illustrated embodiment, each light source 116 is associated with a reflector 118. The reflector 118 may be a single component associated with a single light source 116, or each reflector 118 may be associated with multiple light sources 116. In some embodiments, each reflector 118 may be coupled to a reflector plate 122, which may have different surface features, textures, etc. Each reflector 118 may be removable from the reflector plate 122, or may be permanently integrated with the reflector plate 122.

[0031] In addition, at least one of the first lighting element 112 and the second lighting element 114 may include an optical device 121. In one example, the optical device 121 is a transparent or translucent material. The optical device 121 may be positioned to correspond to one or more of the plurality of light sources 116. For example, the optical device 121 may be a lens spanning a plurality of the plurality of light sources 116, or may be arranged in or relative to a reflector 118 of a single light source in the plurality of light sources 116.

[0032] In some embodiments, the optical device 121 has no effect on the dispersion and form of light from the corresponding light source 116. In other embodiments, the optical device 121 applies an optical effect. For example, the optical device 121 can disperse light, focus light, redirect light, etc. The optical device 121 can be a lens, a plate, etc.

[0033] In some embodiments, each reflector 118 in the first lighting element 112 is similar. In other embodiments, one or more reflectors 118 in the first lighting element 112 are different from another reflector in the first lighting element 112. For example, the reflector 118 can provide a diffuse or focused light pattern to provide wide or narrow illumination. In some embodiments, the reflector 118 can be smooth, ridged, textured, etc. to provide corresponding lighting effects. The reflector 118 can provide a lighting pattern with certain geometric configurations, such as a circle, an ellipse, a light and dark cutoff line, or other geometric configurations that may be more effective, efficient, or otherwise beneficial for a particular use, installation location, vehicle, etc.

[0034] In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 120 is coupled to the base 106 via mounting hardware 126. The mounting hardware 126 may include screws, bolts, pins, caps, etc. The housing 120 may be secured solely via the mounting hardware 126, or may also be secured using adhesives, retaining structures, etc. to further secure the housing 120 relative to the base 106.

[0035] In some embodiments, the mounting hardware 126 is configured to facilitate removal of the housing 120. The housing 120 may be removable to facilitate maintenance, cleaning, etc. In some embodiments, the housing 120 may be removable to facilitate replacement of at least one of the housing 120, reflector plate 122, reflector 118, light source 116, or other components to achieve aesthetic, performance, or material repair, update, or other changes. For example, the housing 120 may be removable to allow a user to install a different housing that is similar in color or design to the vehicle that the clip-on mirror light 100 may be used for. The housing 120 may also be removable to access one or more internal components of the mirror light 102.

[0036] The illustrated embodiment of the mirror light 102 also includes an electrical connection 128. The electrical connection 128 provides power to the mirror light 102. For example, the electrical connection 128 provides power to the light source 116. The electrical connection 128 can be removable relative to the base 106 or can be fixedly connected to the base 106. In the illustrated embodiment, the electrical connection 128 is a single unified cord or cable. In other embodiments, the electrical connection 128 can be a separate cord or cable with multiple wires. For example, the electrical connection 128 can be a two-wire open lead to facilitate connection to the mirror light 102.

[0037] In some embodiments, electrical connection 128 provides power to a single electrical control circuit that controls the plurality of light sources 116. In other embodiments, each of a plurality of electrical control circuits is associated with each of the plurality of light sources 116.

[0038] In the illustrated embodiment, the mirror light 102 includes a coupling feature 130. The coupling feature 130 is formed in the base 106 to facilitate coupling of the mirror light 102 to another system, such as the universal clamp 104. An embodiment of the coupling feature 130 accepts an attachment feature 132 from an attachable system or device. In the illustrated embodiment, the coupling feature 130 is a ball socket that receives a spherical insert to couple the universal clamp 104 to the light mirror 102. In some embodiments, the coupling force or strength of the coupling feature 130 may be adjustable. For example, the coupling feature 130 may include adjustment hardware 134. The adjustment hardware 134 is shown as being positioned on one side of the coupling feature 130 to secure the attachment feature 132 at the coupling feature 130. In other embodiments, the adjustment hardware 134 may be positioned on opposite sides of the coupling feature 130 or on both sides of the coupling feature 130. In the illustrated embodiment, the adjustment hardware 134 includes one or more screws, bolts, nuts, levers, etc.

[0039] The adjustment hardware 134 can be tightened, loosened, or otherwise adjusted to change the force with which the coupling feature 130 engages the attachment feature 132 of the universal clamp 104 or another device. In some embodiments, the adjustment hardware 134 is configured to accept a tool for adjustment. In other embodiments, the adjustment hardware 134 is configured to allow a user to make adjustments without the need for tools. For example, the adjustment hardware 134 can include a standard or proprietary tool interface, or the adjustment hardware 134 can include a hand or finger interface.

[0040] The adjustable force aspect of the coupling feature 130 provides a breakaway action. The breakaway action is a response of the light mirror 102 to resist or yield to an external force encountered by the light mirror 102. For example, if the light mirror 102 is coupled to a universal clamp 104 that secures the light mirror to an off-road vehicle and the off-road vehicle passes a tree, the branch may strike the light mirror 102. The coupling feature 130 can be adjusted to resist movement due to the collision of the branch and the light mirror 102, or can be adjusted to yield and move relative to the universal clamp 104 in response to the collision.

[0041] The coupling feature 130 may be removably secured via coupling hardware 124. In the illustrated embodiment, the coupling hardware 124 is located on either side of the coupling feature 130. The coupling hardware 124 may secure separate portions of the coupling feature 130. The coupling hardware 124 may include a tool or hand interface to facilitate installation or removal via tool or hand interaction.

[0042] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 FIG. 1 is an end view of an embodiment of a lamp mirror 102 of FIG. In the illustrated embodiment, the reflector 118 of the second lighting element 114 is more fully shown. In this embodiment, the reflector 118 of the second lighting element 114 has a non-smooth geometric configuration. As shown, the reflector 118 of the second lighting element 114 has a series of radial steps extending outward from the light source 116 and a series of radial ridges around the circumference of the reflector 118. This provides a corresponding lighting pattern and throw distance. Although a specific geometric configuration of the reflector 118 is shown, other geometric configurations and constructions are also contemplated.

[0043] Figure 3 Shows Figure 1 1 is a side view of a clamping mirror light 100. In the illustrated embodiment, a first body portion 106A and a second body portion 106B of the mirror light 102 are shown. In some embodiments, the first body portion 106A corresponds to the first lighting element 112 and the second body portion 106B corresponds to the second lighting element 114. In some embodiments, the first body portion 106A is coupled to the second body portion 106B at an angle θ. The angle θ can be in a range between 90° and 180°. In some embodiments, the angle θ is approximately 135 degrees. In other embodiments, the angle θ is greater than or less than 135 degrees.

[0044] In some embodiments, angle θ is adjustable. For example, the second body portion 106B can be pivoted at or near the first body portion 106A to increase or decrease angle θ. The adjustment of angle θ can be stepped or can be smooth, with locking or other fixing capabilities and corresponding mechanisms. Although some embodiments show the angle adjustment of the housing, other embodiments can be combined with the angle adjustment of each of the multiple light sources 116 via reflectors 118, optical devices 121, etc. The angle adjustment of light can produce a fan or angle effect in one or more directions. For example, the light can be fanned vertically and / or horizontally.

[0045] In some embodiments, the first body portion 106A and the second body portion 106B are a unified structure formed from the same material. For example, the first body portion 106A and the second body portion 106B can be machined or formed from a single billet, blank or other raw form. In other embodiments, the first body portion 106A and the second body portion 106B can be joined as part of an assembly process. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the clamping mirror light 100 is machined. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the clamping mirror light 100 is cast, molded, etc. In the illustrated embodiment, the clamping mirror light 100 includes a multi-faceted planar geometric configuration. In other embodiments, the clamping mirror light 100 includes a smooth or curved geometric configuration or a geometric configuration that is a combination of multi-faceted and curved.

[0046] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the clamp-on mirror light 100 is made of billet aluminum. For example, one or more portions of the clamp-on mirror light 100 may be made of at least one of 6061 aluminum, another 6000 series aluminum, 7000 series aluminum, another grade of aluminum or other metal, composite material, or other natural or synthetic material, or a combination of various materials. In addition, components of the clamp-on mirror light 100 may include coatings, treatments, depositions, hardening, or other processes such as anodizing, painting, powder coating, vapor deposition, plasma deposition, heat treatment, etc. In some embodiments, similar materials are used in contact with each other to avoid problems caused by thermal expansion differences, galvanic coupling, etc.

[0047] In the illustrated embodiment, the angle θ of first body portion 106A relative to second body portion 106B facilitates illumination of a wide range. In some embodiments, the relative positions of first body portion 106A and second body portion 106B orient first lighting element 112 and second lighting element 114 to produce a combined illumination field of view of approximately 210°.

[0048] Figure 4 Shows Figure 1 108 of a first side 108 of a clamping mirror light 100. The illustrated embodiment includes a frame 402 disposed on the first side 108 of the base 106 of the mirror light 102. In some embodiments, the frame 402 is secured to the first side 108 of the base 106 by frame mounting hardware 404. In some embodiments, the frame mounting hardware 404 is similar to Figure 1 The mounting hardware 126 corresponds to the housing 120 on the second side 110 of the base 106 of the mirror light 100. In other embodiments, the frame mounting hardware 404 is different from Figure 1 Mounting hardware 126.

[0049] In some embodiments, the bezel mounting hardware 404 is removable to facilitate removal of the bezel 402. The bezel 402 may be removed to repair a portion of the clip-on mirror light 100 or to change a feature or quality of the clip-on mirror light 100, such as the color, size, or shape of the bezel 402, or access to the light source 116.

[0050] The illustrated embodiment also includes a mirror 406 disposed on the first side 108 of the base 106. In some embodiments, the mirror 406 is a convex mirror or an outwardly curved mirror to improve the field of view of the mirror 406 and provide exaggerated size changes based on the proximity of the object. In the illustrated embodiment, the mirror 406 is a single-piece mirror 406. In other embodiments, the mirror 406 can be a multi-piece mirror. For example, the mirror 406 can include a concave portion and a flat portion. Other mirror arrangements are also contemplated.

[0051] Figure 5 Shows Figure 1 1. A perspective view of an embodiment of the universal clamp 104 in FIG. 1. The illustrated embodiment includes a first jaw 502, a second jaw 504, and a guide 506. The guide 506 is coupled to the first jaw 502. The first jaw 502 has a first clamping surface 508, and the second jaw 504 has a second clamping surface 510. The guide 506 is coupled to the first jaw 502. The second jaw 504 is adjustably positioned on the guide 506 to move relative to the first jaw 502, wherein the first clamping surface 508 faces the second clamping surface 510.

[0052] The adjustability of the universal clamp 104 and at least one of the geometric configurations of the first clamping face 508 and the second clamping face 510 allow the universal clamp 104 to clamp in a wide range of clamping positions. For example, the universal clamp 104 can be compatible with a wide range of ATV frames, vehicle components or other mounting locations or other structures that can have a wide range of geometric configurations in both size and shape.

[0053] The illustrated embodiment also includes a coupler 512 attached to at least one of the first jaw 502 and the second jaw 504. The coupler 512 is shaped to facilitate attachment of a structure to the universal fixture 104. For example, the mirror light 102, a fire extinguisher, or other structure, device, or system may be coupled to the universal fixture 104 via the coupler 512. In some embodiments, the coupler 512 is a friction lock.

[0054] In the illustrated embodiment, the first jaw 502 and guide 506 are configured to float relative to the second jaw 504 and coupler 512. Or, in other words, the adjustability and compatibility of the universal clamp 104 is due in part to the movement of the first jaw 502, or floating jaw 502, relative to the second jaw 504, or fixed jaw 504. The guide 506 is illustrated as a guide rail 506, but may take other shapes and forms as shown and described below.

[0055] In the illustrated embodiment, the coupling 512 includes a securing element, which is shown herein as a tensioning mechanism 514. The securing element may be, for example, Figure 7 The illustrated screw 515, clamp, latch, hook, etc. The illustrated tension mechanism 514 applies tension to close the coupling 512 to secure a portion of a structure or device or system within the coupling 512. The tension mechanism 514 can be a screw, bolt, nut, etc. The tension mechanism 514 can be easily adjusted by hand or using a tool. In the illustrated embodiment, a single tension mechanism 514 is shown. In other embodiments, one or more tension mechanisms 514 are used to adjust the coupling 512.

[0056] As shown, the coupling 512 can be adjusted by deflecting the material of the coupling 512. In other embodiments, the coupling 512 can include a hinge, a flexible material, etc. In some embodiments, the coupling 512 is a smooth bore opening in the fixed jaw 504. In other embodiments, the coupling 512 includes gripping features such as rubber, texture, raised surface features, etc.

[0057] In some embodiments, the coupler 512 is configured to mount at least one of a mirror light 102, a flag stand, a whip stand, a windshield, a sunshade, a lamp, a helmet, a guard, a rack, a rail, a plow, a pole, a tie-down device, a turn signal, a winch, etc. In some embodiments, the coupler 512 is configured to receive a fire extinguisher or a fire extinguisher holder. In some embodiments, the fire extinguisher holder can be a quick release fire extinguisher holder to facilitate accessible placement and relatively quick access to the fire extinguisher. Other structures, mechanisms, or objects can be coupled to the universal fixture 104 via the coupler 512.

[0058] The illustrated embodiment includes an adjustment mechanism 516. The adjustment mechanism 516 is positioned to adjust and secure the floating jaw 502 relative to the fixed jaw 504. The adjustment mechanism 516 is shown as being positioned along the guide rail 506. In this relative arrangement, the adjustment mechanism 516 can adjust the position of the fixed jaw 504 relative to the floating jaw 502 while reducing the possibility of binding on the guide rail 506. Because the guide rail 506 has a raised keying geometry and the fixed jaw 504 has a corresponding keying groove geometry, an adjustment force applied away from the guide rail 506 may result in a binding condition without additional stabilization. In the illustrated embodiment, the adjustment mechanism 516 is a screw or bolt. In other embodiments, the adjustment mechanism 516 is a nut, a slider, a lock, etc.

[0059] In some embodiments, the adjustment mechanism 516 is free to rotate in one of the floating jaw 502 and the fixed jaw 504 and engages with the other of the floating jaw 502 and the fixed jaw 504. In the illustrated embodiment, the adjustment mechanism 516 is free to rotate relative to the floating jaw 502 and engages with the fixed jaw 504. As the adjustment mechanism 516 is turned or otherwise manipulated, the spacing between the floating jaw 502 and the fixed jaw 504 increases or decreases. This adjustment allows the first clamping surface 508 and the second clamping surface 510 to come together to clamp a structure between the floating jaw 502 and the fixed jaw 504 of the universal clamp 104 or move apart to release the structure from the universal clamp 104.

[0060] Figure 6 Shows Figure 1 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the guide rails 506 of the universal fixture 104 are aligned with the guide rails 506 of the universal fixture 104. Figure 5 The illustrated embodiment is the opposite, wherein the stationary jaw 504 has a keyed geometry and the guide rail 506 forms a keyed slot to receive the stationary jaw 504. In the illustrated embodiment, the adjustment structure 516 passes through the slot in the guide rail 506 to engage the stationary jaw 504.

[0061] The illustrated embodiment includes a pivot post 602. The pivot post 602 can be coupled to the fixed jaw 504. The pivot post 602 can include a pin extending into the fixed jaw 504 or can receive a pin from the fixed jaw 504 to form a pivotable connection with the fixed jaw 504. In some embodiments, the pivot post 602 is formed by Figure 5 The connector 512 shown in FIG.

[0062] The pivot post 602 may include a slot 604 to facilitate coupling the pivot post 602 to the auxiliary bracket 606. In the illustrated embodiment, the slot 604 is formed in the pivot post 602 to have an arcuate geometry that may allow a range of adjustability or other relative movement of the auxiliary bracket 606.

[0063] Auxiliary bracket 606 can be coupled to pivot post 602 to facilitate installation of another system, such as Figure 1 Other systems, devices or structures may also be compatible with the auxiliary bracket 606. For example, one or both of the pivot pile 602 and the auxiliary bracket 606 may be compatible with proprietary or standardized brackets for a range of systems, devices and structures.

[0064] Figure 7 An exploded view of one embodiment of the universal clamp 104 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the first clamping surface 508 of the floating jaw 502 and the second clamping surface 510 of the fixed jaw 504 are mirror images of each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the first clamping surface 508 and the second clamping surface 510 have a circular and flat planar geometry to engage and clamp onto a circular structure, a rectangular structure, a flat structure, etc.

[0065] In the illustrated embodiment, the pivot post 602 includes a pin 702 that engages the coupler 512 of the stationary jaw 504. As described above, in some embodiments, the pin 702 can be fixed relative to the stationary jaw 504 while allowing the pivot post 702 to pivot relative to the stationary jaw 504.

[0066] In the illustrated embodiment, the auxiliary bracket 606 is coupled to the pivot post 602. The auxiliary bracket 606 can rotate relative to the pivot post 602. And includes a mounting hole 704. The mounting hole 704 can facilitate the connection of a system, device, or structure to the auxiliary bracket 606. For example, the auxiliary bracket 606 can facilitate the connection of a mirror light 102, a flag stand, a whip stand, a windshield, a sunshade, a lamp, a helmet, a guard, a rack, a rail, a plow, a tie-down device, a turn signal, a winch, etc.

[0067] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the mirror 102 has a base 106, and the second lighting element 114 is positioned along an end of the base 106 that is distal to the universal fixture 104 (not shown). In the illustrated embodiment, the base 106 includes an angled portion 802. In other embodiments, the base 106 is generally planar and the second lighting element 114 is angled within the base 106.

[0068] In some embodiments, each of the first lighting element 112 and / or the second lighting element 114 is fanned out relative to the other of the first lighting element 112 and / or the second lighting element 114. In some embodiments, one or more of the first lighting element 112 or the second lighting element 114 may be multifunctional. For example, the mirror 102 may have a high beam / low beam mode, turn signals, flashers, etc. In some embodiments, additional lighting elements (not shown) are included to perform the same or different functions as one or more of the first lighting element 112 and the second lighting element 114.

[0069] Fig. 9 is a flow chart of an embodiment of method 900. The illustrated embodiment of method 900 includes forming a floating jaw having a first clamping surface at 902. Method 900 also includes forming a fixed jaw having a second clamping surface at 904. Method 900 also includes arranging a guide rail at 906 to position the floating jaw relative to the fixed jaw and allow the floating jaw to move relative to the fixed jaw, wherein the first clamping surface is oriented toward the second clamping surface. Method 900 also includes aligning an adjustment mechanism at 908 to adjust and fix the floating jaw relative to the fixed jaw. Method 900 also includes attaching a connector to at least one of the floating jaw and the fixed jaw at 910, the connector being shaped to facilitate attachment of the structure to the universal clamp.

[0070] The present invention may be implemented in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential features of the present invention. The described embodiments should be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. Therefore, the scope of the present invention is shown by the appended claims rather than the preceding description. All changes falling within the equivalent meaning of the claims and their scope should be included within their scope.

Claims

1. A system comprising: A universal clamp, the universal clamp being adjustable to clamp a plurality of mounting structures, each mounting structure having a different geometric configuration at a clamping position, the universal clamp comprising: a first clamping jaw having a first clamping surface; a guide integrally coupled to the first jaw; a second jaw having a second clamping surface, the second jaw slidably connected to the guide for movement relative to the first jaw, wherein the first clamping surface is oriented toward the second clamping surface; an adjustment mechanism that adjusts and fixes the first jaw relative to the second jaw; and a coupler connected to at least one of the first jaw and the second jaw, the coupler being shaped to facilitate attachment of a structure to the universal clamp; and A mirror light, the mirror light being coupled to the universal fixture, the mirror light comprising: a base comprising a first side and a second side opposite the first side; a mirror disposed on the first side of the base; a first lighting element disposed on the second side of the base; and A second lighting element is disposed on the second side of the base and oriented at an angle relative to the first lighting element.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The mirror light is adjustable with at least one degree of freedom relative to the universal fixture.

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The first lighting element is positioned centrally on the second side of the base, and the second lighting element is positioned along an end of the base proximate the universal fixture.

4. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The first lighting element is positioned centrally on the second side of the base, and the second lighting element is positioned along an end of the base distal from the universal fixture.

5. The system according to claim 1, wherein: At least one of the first lighting element or the second lighting element includes a plurality of light emitting diodes.

6. The system according to claim 5, wherein: Each of the plurality of light emitting diodes has at least one of a separate corresponding optical device and a separate corresponding electrical control circuit.

7. The system according to claim 5, wherein: One or more of the plurality of light emitting diodes are angled relative to another of the plurality of light emitting diodes to create a fanned-out lighting effect in light emitted by the plurality of light emitting diodes.

8. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The mirror lamp further includes a turn signal element disposed in the base.

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