Warning lamp

Abstract

An apparatus may include a work lamp configured to emit light in a first direction. The apparatus may include a warning light configured to emit light in a second direction. The apparatus may include a hinge coupled between the work light and the warning light such that the work light and the warning light are rotatable about the hinge independently of each other from a storage position to a deployed position. The apparatus may include a user interface disposed on the warning light, the user interface including: a work light actuator engageable to actuate the work light; and a warning light actuator engageable independently of the working light actuator to actuate the warning light.

Description

[0001] Cross - reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 617,108, filed on January 3, 2024, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical field

[0003] This disclosure relates to optical units, and more particularly to optical units for indicating roadside hazards. Summary of the invention

[0004] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an optical unit that includes: a working light configured to emit light in a first direction; a warning light configured to emit light in a second direction; a hinge coupled between the working light and the warning light such that the working light and the warning light are rotatable relative to each other independently about the hinge from a storage position to a deployed position; a user interface disposed on the warning light, the user interface including: a working - light actuator that is engagable to actuate the working light; and a warning - light actuator that is engagable independently of the working - light actuator to actuate the warning light.

[0005] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an optical unit, wherein the warning light is rotatable relative to the working light by approximately 200 degrees from the storage position.

[0006] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an optical unit, wherein the storage position is defined by a back - to - back arrangement of the working light and the warning light.

[0007] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an optical unit, wherein the hinge defines a cavity configured to receive a battery, the battery being configured to provide power to each of the working light and the warning light.

[0008] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an optical unit, wherein the working - light actuator includes at least two working - light modes, and wherein the warning - light actuator includes at least two warning - light modes independent of the working - light modes.

[0009] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an optical unit, wherein the at least two working - light modes include two or more of a low - intensity mode, a medium - intensity mode, and a high - intensity mode.

[0010] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to an optical unit, wherein the at least two warning - light modes include two or more of a steady mode, a flash mode, and a tracer mode.

[0011] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a lighting unit, wherein the working light includes a first frame, and the warning light includes a second frame different from the first frame, and wherein at least one of the first frame and the second frame includes a magnet.

[0012] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a lighting unit, wherein only the working light includes an aperture configured to be grasped by a user.

[0013] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a lighting unit, wherein the warning light further includes a circuit board electrically coupled to the working light and the warning light, and the circuit board is configured to control the output of each of the working light and the warning light.

[0014] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a lighting unit, wherein the circuit board further includes a user interface that includes a working light actuator and a warning light actuator disposed only on the working light or the warning light.

[0015] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a lighting unit, wherein the circuit board is a first circuit board, and the lighting unit further includes a second circuit board electrically coupled between the first circuit board and the working light and a third circuit board electrically coupled between the first circuit board and the warning light.

[0016] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a lighting unit that includes: a working light that includes a first hinge portion through which a pivot axis extends; and a warning light that includes a second hinge portion that is rotatably coupled to the first hinge portion about the pivot axis; wherein the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion cooperatively define a cavity configured to receive a power source to power each of the working light and the warning light.

[0017] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a lighting unit, wherein each of the working light and the warning light is pivotable about the pivot axis by approximately 200 degrees from a storage position where the working light and the warning light are in a back-to-back arrangement.

[0018] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a lighting unit that further includes a first circuit board electrically coupled to the working light and a second circuit board coupled to the warning light.

[0019] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a lighting unit, wherein the first circuit board includes a user interface that includes a working light actuator and a warning light actuator disposed only on the working light or the warning light.

[0020] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a light unit that further includes a second circuit board electrically coupled between a first circuit board and a work light and a third circuit board electrically coupled between the first circuit board and a warning light.

[0021] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a light unit that includes: a work light fixture that includes: a work light frame that defines a plurality of frame segments and at least one aperture formed between the frame segments; a first LED disposed at a central portion of the frame segments; and a first hinge portion coupled to at least one of the plurality of frame segments; and a warning light fixture that includes: a warning light frame that has a second hinge portion pivotally coupled to the first hinge portion, the warning light frame further having a first portion that defines an outer perimeter of the warning light frame and a second portion spaced from the first portion toward a center of the warning light frame; a channel defined between the first portion and the second portion; a second LED disposed within the channel; and a circuit board supported by the second portion, the circuit board configured to control an output of each of the first LED and the second LED; wherein the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion cooperatively define a cylindrical body configured to receive a power source.

[0022] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a light unit, wherein the circuit board includes a user interface having a work light actuator and a warning light actuator, the work light actuator and the warning light actuator being independently actuatable to control the work light and the warning light.

[0023] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a light unit, wherein the work light actuator is configured to cause the work light to switch between at least two different work light modes, and wherein the warning light actuator is configured to cause the warning light to switch between at least two different warning light modes. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] Figure 1 is a front perspective view of a light unit including a work light and shown in an unfolded position in accordance with an example of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 2 is a rear perspective view of a Figure 1 light unit including a warning light and shown in an unfolded position.

[0026] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the work light when the light unit is in a folded position.

[0027] Figure 4Is a perspective view of the warning light when the optical unit is in the folded position.

[0028] Figure 5A Is a side view of the optical unit in the folded position.

[0029] Figure 5B Is a schematic diagram showing the optical unit in multiple deployed positions.

[0030] Figure 6 Is a partial exploded view of a part of the optical unit and the battery for the optical unit.

[0031] Figure 7 Is a perspective view of the optical unit used in an exemplary application.

[0032] Figure 8 Is a perspective view of the optical unit used in another exemplary application.

[0033] Figure 9 Is a perspective view of the optical unit used in another exemplary application.

[0034] Figure 10 Is a perspective view of the optical unit used in yet another exemplary application. Detailed Description

[0035] Before explaining any embodiments of the present disclosure in detail, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited in its application to the construction details and component arrangements set forth in the following description or shown in the following drawings. The present disclosure is capable of other examples and of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Further, it should be understood that the language and terminology used herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0036] In the detailed description, numerical and alphabetical labels are used to refer to features in the drawings. The same or similar labels have been used in the drawings and the description to refer to the same or similar parts of the present disclosure.

[0037] Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural referents. Unless otherwise specified herein, terms such as "coupled", "fixed", etc. refer to both direct coupling or fixing and indirect coupling or fixing through one or more intermediate components or features. As used herein, the terms "includes", "including", "has", "having", or any other variation thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article, or apparatus that includes a series of features is not necessarily limited to those features, but may include other features not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary, "or" means inclusive "or" rather than exclusive "or". For example, any of the following cases satisfies condition A or B: A is true (or present) and B is false (or absent), A is false (or absent) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).

[0038] Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems are described below with reference to specific examples. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any one or more features that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more apparent should not be construed as a critical, essential, or necessary feature of any or all claims.

[0039] Figure 1 and Figure 2 The light unit 10 is shown, which includes: a work light 14; a warning light 18; a hinge 22 that pivotally couples the work light 14 and the warning light 18 together; and a user interface 26 that controls the operation of the work light 14 and the warning light 18. Referring Figure 8 , the light unit 10 can be used, for example, next to a vehicle 8 (e.g., adjacent to or located at the roadside or in a parking structure) to illuminate in the direction of the vehicle 8 and in another direction (e.g., the opposite direction) and indicate the danger of the stopped vehicle 8.

[0040] As Figure 1 and Figure 3As shown, work light 14 includes a work light housing or frame 30 and a work light fixture 34 supported by work light frame 30. The illustrated work light frame 30 is polygonal and has an overall triangular profile having a plurality of first frame segments 38a, 38b, 38c and a plurality of second frame segments 42a, 42b, 42c. Each of the first frame segments 38a, 38b, 38c defines a leg of the triangular work light frame 30. The second frame segments 42a, 42b, 42c extend between adjacent respective first frame segments 38a, 38b, 38c. The work light fixture 34 is positioned between frame segments 38a - 38c, 42a - 42c (e.g., at the center of these frame segments) and is supported by a plurality of support segments 46a, 46b, 46c. Each of the support segments 46a - 46c extends from a corresponding one of the second frame segments 42a, 42b, 42c to the work light fixture 34 to support the work light fixture 34. The work light frame 30 defines a plurality of apertures 50a, 50b, 50c. Specifically, the work light frame 30 defines three apertures 50a, 50b, 50c. Each of the apertures 50a, 50b, 50c is defined between the work light fixture 34, one of the first frame segments 38a, 38b, 38c, and two of the support segments 46a, 46b, 46c. The apertures 50a, 50b, 50c may allow a user to grasp the light unit 10 through one of the first frame segments 38a, 38b, 38c for carrying the light unit 10. In the illustrated example, a portion of the first frame segment 38c opposite the hinge 22 is cut away such that the first frame segment 38c opposite the hinge 22 can be operated as a handle or grip for carrying the light unit 10. The apertures 50a, 50b, 50c may additionally allow a user to suspend the light unit 10 from a height relative to the work space, which will be described in more detail.

[0041] In the example shown, the work light frame 30 is formed from a high-strength polymer material. In the example shown, the polymer material is formed from a combination of a polycarbonate (PC) polymer and an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) polymer. In other examples, the polymer material may additionally or alternatively include a polyamideimide (PAI) polymer, a polyetheretherketone (PEEK) polymer, a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) polymer, or another similar polymer. In some examples, the work light frame 30 may be formed from a combination of materials including multiple polymers and other materials such as metals. The work piece light frame 30 is also formed with an internal structural design that strengthens the work piece light frame 30. Specifically, the internal structural design includes forming the work light frame 30 to have a relatively thicker outer wall and thicker internal ribs than a typical polymer frame. As such, the material and internal structural design of the work light frame 30 advantageously provide the work light 14 with a drop resistance of up to at least six feet and a crush resistance of at least 10,000 pounds. That is, the material and internal structural design of the work light frame 30 can prevent damage and malfunction caused by the accidental dropping of the light unit 10 and accidental squeezing due to, for example, dropping (the light unit 10 falling from a height of six feet and / or being squeezed by a vehicle driving over the work light 14). Additionally, the work light frame 30 may be manufactured in accordance with a system-level ingress protection code (i.e., IP code) such that the work light frame 30 has an IP code of 55 (i.e., a solid IP code of 5 and a liquid IP code of 5). Under the solid IP code of 5, the work light frame 30 prevents dust intrusion from interfering with the internal electrical equipment of the work light 14. Under the liquid IP code of 5, the work light frame 30 prevents low-pressure water jets from being applied to the work light 14.

[0042] The work light fixture 34 includes a work light printed circuit board (PCB) 58, a plurality of first light emitting diodes (LEDs) 62, and a first lens 66 positioned downstream of the first LEDs 62 along a first light emission direction A1. The work light fixture 34 has an outer perimeter that is generally the same as but smaller in size than the outer perimeter of the work light frame 30 such that the work light fixture 34 is assembled between the frame segments 38a - 38c, 42a - 42c. Each of the work light PCB 58, the first LEDs 62, and the first lens 66 is supported within the outer perimeter of the work light fixture 34. The first LEDs 62 are positioned on the work light PCB 58. The first LEDs 62 are configured to receive power from the work light PCB 58 and emit white light along the first light emission direction A1 through the first lens 66 when the work light 14 is turned on. The first light emission direction A1 extends perpendicular to the first lens 66. The first LEDs 62 are arranged on the work light PCB 58 such that the first LEDs 62 are configured to emit light 360 degrees around the perimeter of the work light 14 along the first light emission direction A1. In the example shown, the first LEDs 62 are configured to emit a light output of 500 lumens. In some examples, the first LEDs 62 may be configured to emit a greater light output. Additionally, the first LEDs 62 are configured to emit light that is visible at least one mile away from the work light 14.

[0043] As Figure 2 and Figure 4As shown, the warning light 18 includes a warning light housing or frame 70 and a warning light fixture 74. The shown warning light frame 70 is polygonal and has an overall triangular profile with a first part 70a and a second part 70b. In the shown example, the first part 70a and the second part 70b are formed together. For example, the first part 70a and the second part 70b can be formed by a manufacturing process such as injection molding. In some examples, the first part 70a and the second part 70b can be formed separately and fixed to each other. The first part 70a has an outer perimeter that is substantially the same as the outer perimeter of the work light frame 30. The second part 70b is located at the center of the first part 70a and is substantially similar in shape to the work light fixture 34. Thus, the second part 70b has an outer perimeter that is substantially the same as but smaller in size than the outer perimeter of the first part 70a, such that the second part 70b is assembled within the outer perimeter of the first part 70a. The first part 70a and the second part 70b define a channel 76 that is polygonal and has an overall triangular profile between the first part 70a and the second part 70b. In the shown example, the warning light frame 70 is formed of the same material and the same internal structure design as the work light frame 30. Thus, the warning light frame 70 advantageously provides the warning light 18 with a drop resistance of up to six feet and a crush resistance of at least 10,000 pounds. Additionally, the warning light 18 can be manufactured according to a system-level IP code with an IP rating of 55 (i.e., solid IP code 5 and liquid IP code 5).

[0044] The warning light fixture 74 is mounted within the channel 76 defined between the first part 70a and the second part 70b of the warning light frame 70. The warning light fixture 74 includes a warning light PCB 78, a plurality of second LEDs 82, and a second lens 86 positioned downstream of the second LEDs 82 along a second emission direction A2. The warning light PCB 78 is triangular. In the shown example, the second part 70b of the warning light frame 70 extends through the center of the warning light PCB 78 such that the warning light PCB 78 is positioned within the channel 76 between the first part 70a and the second part 70b of the warning light frame 70. The second LEDs 82 are positioned on the warning light PCB 78. The second LEDs 82 are configured to receive power from the warning light PCB 78 and emit red light along the second emission direction A2 through the second lens 86 when the warning light 18 is turned on. The second emission direction A2 extends perpendicular to the second lens 86. The second LEDs 82 are arranged on the warning light PCB 78 such that the second LEDs 82 are configured to emit light 360 degrees around the perimeter of the warning light 18 along the second emission direction A2. Additionally, the second LEDs 82 are configured to emit light visible at least one mile away from the warning light 18.

[0045] The light unit 10 may additionally include a magnet in one or both of the work light 14 and the warning light 18. Specifically, the magnet may be supported within one or both of the work light frame 30 and the warning light frame 70. The magnet may assist in mounting the light unit 10 to a surface. For example, the magnet in the light unit 10 may be placed to magnetically engage a metal surface to secure the light unit 10 to the metal surface.

[0046] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the hinge 22 includes a work light hinge portion 90 and a warning light hinge portion 94. The work light hinge portion 90 and the warning light hinge portion 94 together define a cylindrical body. The work light hinge portion 90 extends from the work light frame 30 and provides a front end and a rear end of the cylindrical body. The warning light hinge portion 94 extends from the warning light frame 70 and extends between the front end and the rear end of the cylindrical body provided by the work light hinge portion 90. The hinge 22 enables the work light 14 and the warning light 18 to pivot relative to each other. Specifically, as Figure 5A and Figure 5B shown, the hinge 22 allows the work light 14 and the warning light 18 to pivot to adjust the light unit 10 between a folded or storage position (as Figure 5A shown) and a plurality of deployed positions (e.g., as Figure 5B shown). In the storage position, the work light 14 and the warning light 18 are in a back-to-back arrangement, where each of the outer contours of the work light 14 and the warning light 18 is substantially aligned.

[0047] For simplicity, the plurality of deployed positions of the light unit 10 are described in terms of the position of the warning light 18 pivoting relative to the work light 14. It should be understood that the plurality of deployed positions also include the position of the work light 14 pivoting relative to the warning light 18. As Figure 5B shown, the light unit 10 is in a full pivot position. In the full pivot position, the warning light 18 pivots 200 degrees relative to the work light 14. Thus, when the light unit 10 is in the full pivot position, the first light emission direction A1 and the second light emission direction A2 may intersect. In some examples, the hinge 22 may allow additional pivoting such that the warning light 18 is pivotable relative to the work light 14 by more than 200 degrees. The warning light 18 is infinitely adjustable between the folded position ( Figure 5A ) and the full pivot position such that the light unit 10 can be adjusted to a plurality of intermediate positions. Figure 5BShows three exemplary intermediate positions B1, B2, B3. At the first intermediate position B1, the warning light 18 pivots less than 90 degrees relative to the work light 14. More specifically, the warning light 18 pivots approximately 70 degrees relative to the work light 14. At the second intermediate position B2, the warning light 18 pivots approximately 90 degrees relative to the work light 14. At the third intermediate position B3, the warning light 18 pivots between 90 degrees and 200 degrees relative to the work light 14. Thus, the light unit 10 can be positioned at any deployment position with an angle between 0 degrees and 200 degrees between the work light 14 and the warning light 18 according to user preference.

[0048] Reference Figure 6 , the cylindrical body of the hinge 22 defines a cavity, the shape of which is determined to receive the battery 98, which supplies power to the work light PCB 58 to illuminate the first LED 62 ( Figure 3 ) and supplies power to the warning light PCB 78 to illuminate the second LED 82 ( Figure 4 ). The hinge 22 further includes a cap 102 threadedly coupled to the cylindrical body. The cap 102 can be selectively removed from the body to allow access to the cavity for insertion and removal of the battery 98. The battery 98 can include a lithium-ion (Li-ion) cell. In an alternative example, the battery 98 can have a different chemical composition (e.g., nickel cadmium (NiCa or NiCad), nickel metal hydride, etc.). The battery 98 has a 24-hour life, such that the light unit 10 can be powered by the battery 98 alone for 24 consecutive hours. In the example shown, the battery 98 is a 4-volt battery. In alternative examples, the capacity of the battery 98 can vary. The battery 98 can include a charging port that allows the battery 98 to be recharged by an external power source when the battery 98 is removed from the cavity of the cylindrical body. In some examples, the battery 98 can be rechargeable while the battery 98 is positioned within the body. The battery 98 further includes a USB port 106 that can be used as a power outlet to allow the battery 98 to be used as a portable power source independent of the light unit 10. For example, a USB cable can be inserted into the USB port 106 of the battery 98 to charge a mobile phone.

[0049] As Figure 4 and Figure 6 shown, the user interface 26 is supported on and within the second portion 70b of the warning light frame 70, and includes a user interface PCB 110, a work light actuator 114, and a warning light actuator 118. The user interface PCB 110 is substantially enclosed by the second portion 70b of the warning light frame 70 and is electrically connected to the work light PCB 58 via wiring 122 ( Figure 3) The warning light PCB 78 and the battery 98. Each of the work light actuator 114 and the warning light actuator 118 is positioned on the user interface PCB 110 and extends through the second part 70b of the warning light frame 70. The work light actuator 114 is actuatable to turn on and adjust the work light mode of the work light 14. The warning light actuator 118 is actuatable to turn on and adjust the warning light mode of the warning light 18. In the illustrated example, the work light actuator 114 and the warning light actuator 118 are independent of each other such that the actuation of the work light actuator 114 or the warning light actuator 118 does not affect the actuation of the other of the work light actuator 114 or the warning light actuator 118. Thus, the work light 14 and the warning light 18 can be lit independently of each other. The work light actuator 114 and the warning light actuator 118 can be actuated simultaneously such that the work light 14 and the warning light 18 are lit simultaneously.

[0050] In the illustrated example, the work light 14 has at least three different work light modes, and the warning light 18 has at least three different warning light modes. The at least three work light modes include a low-intensity mode, a medium-intensity mode, and a high-intensity mode. The user can switch between the work light modes by pressing or actuating the work light actuator 114. Specifically, when the work light 14 is off, the actuation of the work light actuator 114 (e.g., pressing the actuator 114 towards the user interface PCB 110) switches the work light 14 to the low-intensity mode. A second actuation of the work light actuator 114 switches the work light 14 from the low-intensity mode to the medium-intensity mode. A third actuation of the work light actuator 114 switches the work light 14 from the medium-intensity mode to the high-intensity mode. When the work light 14 is in the high-intensity mode, the actuation of the work light actuator 114 (i.e., the fourth actuation) turns off the work light 14.

[0051] In the illustrated example, the three warning light modes include a steady mode, a flash mode, and a tracer mode. In the steady mode, the light emitted from the warning light 18 is constant. In the flash mode, the light emitted from the warning light 18 intermittently flashes (e.g., in a pattern). In the tracer mode, the light emitted from the warning light 18 travels around the second part 70b of the warning light frame 70. That is, each second LED is continuously or sequentially lit (and then turned off) along a clockwise or counterclockwise path Figure 4) such that the emitted light appears to move along the path. The user can switch the warning light 18 between warning light modes by pressing or actuating the warning light actuator 118, as similarly described with respect to the work light actuator 114. Specifically, when the warning light 18 is off, actuating the warning light actuator 118 (e.g., pressing the actuator 118 towards the user interface PCB 110) switches the warning light 18 to the steady mode. Actuating the warning light actuator 118 again (i.e., the second time) switches the warning light 18 from the steady mode to the flash mode. Actuating the warning light actuator 118 one more time (i.e., the third time) switches the warning light 18 from the flash mode to the trace mode. When the warning light 18 is in the trace mode, actuating the warning light actuator 118 (i.e., the fourth time) turns off the warning light 18.

[0052] Since the work light actuator 114 and the warning light actuator 118 are independently operable, the light unit 10 can be set to 15 different modes. These 15 different modes include each combination of the following: the work light 14 off while the warning light 18 is in each of the three warning light modes, the warning light 18 off while the work light 14 is in each of the three work light modes, the work light 14 in the low-intensity mode while the warning light 18 is in each of the three warning light modes, the work light 14 in the medium-intensity mode while the warning light 18 is in each of the three warning light modes, and the work light 14 in the high-intensity mode while the warning light 18 is in each of the three warning light modes. For example, in the first mode of the light unit 10, the work light 14 is off and the warning light 18 is in the flash mode. In the second mode of the light unit 10, the work light 14 is in the high-intensity mode and the warning light 18 is off. In the third mode, the work light 14 is in the high-intensity mode and the warning light 18 is in the trace mode. It is to be understood that the first mode, the second mode, and the third mode are provided as examples and do not indicate the main mode or use of the light unit 10. In some examples, the light unit 10 can operate in fewer or more than 15 modes. For example, the work light 14 can include additional intensity modes. In one or more examples, the work light 14 can include fewer intensity modes. In another example, the work light 14 can operate in a flash mode where the first LED 62 intermittently flashes. In one or more examples, the warning light 18 can have additional modes (e.g., modes of different light intensities).

[0053] The light unit 10 can be used in a variety of applications. In one application, referring to Figure 7 , the light unit 10 can be used beside a vehicle 8. Specifically, the light unit 10 can be utilized to assist (e.g., by providing illumination) in performing maintenance on the vehicle 8 at the roadside while indicating danger to passing drivers. In the present application, referring to Figure 5B and Figure 7, the warning light 18 can pivot around the hinge 22 to a first intermediate position B1. At the first intermediate position B1, the warning light 18 pivots approximately 70 degrees around the hinge 22 relative to the work light 14, such that the work light 14 and the warning light 18 can cooperatively support the light unit 10 relative to the ground to allow the light unit 10 to stand relative to the ground. Once the light unit 10 is placed on the ground, the user can set the light unit 10 in any one of 15 different modes by actuating the work light actuator 114 and the warning light actuator 118. For example, the user can set the light unit 10 to the third mode of the light unit 10, as described above, in which the work light 14 is in the high-intensity mode to illuminate the vehicle 8, and the warning light 18 is in the flashing mode to provide a danger indication to the drivers on the road passing by the vehicle 8.

[0054] In another application, as Figure 8 shown, the light unit 10 can be used in association with the trunk 130 of the vehicle 8. For example, the trunk door 130a of the trunk 130 can be raised to allow access to the trunk 130. As the trunk door 130a is raised, the user can mount the light unit 10 to the trunk door 130a. In the present application, with reference to Figure 5B and Figure 8 , the warning light 18 can pivot to the first intermediate position B1, at which the warning light 18 pivots less than 90 degrees relative to the work light 14. With the light unit 10 in the first intermediate position B1, the light unit 10 can be mounted to the trunk door 130a such that the trunk door 130a extends between the work light 14 and the warning light 18. As Figure 8 shown, the light unit 10 is mounted such that the warning light 18 faces the rear of the vehicle 8 (e.g., faces the user approaching the trunk 130) to indicate danger to, for example, passing drivers. The light unit 10 can also be mounted such that the work light 14 faces the rear of the vehicle 8 (e.g., faces the user approaching the trunk 130) to illuminate the trunk 130 and the rear area of the vehicle 8. In an example where the light unit 10 includes a magnet, the magnet in the light unit 10 can engage the outer surface of the trunk door 130a to magnetically attach the light unit 10 to the trunk door 130a.

[0055] In another application, as Figure 9 shown, the light unit 10 can be used in association with the hood 134 of the vehicle 8. For example, the hood 134 of the vehicle 8 can be raised to allow access to the engine 138 of the vehicle 8. With the hood 134 raised, the user can mount the light unit 10 to the vehicle by placing the light unit 10, for example, on the windshield 142 of the vehicle 8. In the present application, with reference to Figure 5B and Figure 9, the warning light 18 can pivot to a second intermediate position B2, in which the warning light 18 pivots approximately 90 degrees relative to the work light 14. Then the light unit 10 can be placed on the windshield 142 of the vehicle 8 such that the work light 14 is oriented to emit light directly onto a desired portion of the engine 138 of the vehicle 8. In some cases, the warning light 18 can pivot greater than or less than 90 degrees to allow the user to set the light unit 10 such that light is emitted relative to the engine 138 as needed.

[0056] In yet another application, as Figure 10 shown, the light unit 10 can be used in non-vehicle workspaces. Examples of non-vehicle workspaces include, but are not limited to, carpentry stands, auto body shops, and construction sites. In a non-vehicle workspace, referring to Figure 1 and Figure 10 , the light unit 10 can be used in a folded position ( Figure 5A ), a fully pivoted position ( Figure 5B ) and an infinite number of extended positions between the folded position ( Figure 5A ) and the fully pivoted position ( Figure 5B ). Specifically, the light unit 10 can be adjusted to any position where the first emission direction A1 extends at least partially through the non-vehicle workspace such that the first LED 62 ( Figure 3 ) directly emits light onto the workspace. In some applications, the light unit 10 can be suspended from a height relative to the workspace. For example, a rope can be fed through one of the plurality of apertures 50a, 50b, 50c of the work light 14 and fixed to an overhead beam or pipe to suspend the light unit 10 at a desired height. Once the light unit 10 is positioned in the desired orientation, the light unit 10 can be set in one of 15 different operating modes. In a non-vehicle workspace, it may not be necessary to indicate danger, so the light unit 10 can be set, for example, in a mode where the warning light 18 is off.

[0057] Although the application of the light unit 10 has been described with respect to the vehicle 8 and the non-vehicle workspace s5b, it should be understood that the light unit 10 can be used in any number of applications and workspaces that require illumination. Specifically, the light unit 10 can be adjusted to any extended position (e.g., Figure 5B(shown in) and is set to any one of 15 different modes based on the user's situation needs. For example, other uses of the light unit 10 include, but are not limited to, oversize load warnings, entertainment uses, emergency preparedness situations, long-haul freight, towing, and emergency services. In an oversize load warning, the light unit 10 can be used to indicate danger from the rear of the vehicle when the user operates the vehicle to tow or haul a large load. In an entertainment use, the light unit 10 can be used to illuminate, for example, a campsite or a tent. In an emergency preparedness application, the light unit 10 can be used to illuminate an area in the event of a power outage in a home or building. In a long-haul freight application, multiple light units 10 can be continuously set at a certain distance from a stopped semi-trailer truck to provide a danger indication visible at a farther place than using a single light unit 10. In a towing application, the light unit 10 can be set to provide a danger indication for a trailer when a trailer operator is towing a vehicle, for example, on the side of a road. In an emergency services application, maintenance and construction workers can set the light unit 10 at a certain distance from a maintenance area to provide a danger indication for the maintenance area. The battery 98 of the light unit 10 can also be used separately to provide power to other electrical systems in addition to the work light 14 and the warning light 18. For example, the battery 98 can be used as a portable power source to provide power for charging a mobile phone.

[0058] Although the present disclosure has been presented with respect to a limited number of examples, those skilled in the art who benefit from the present disclosure will understand that other embodiments can be designed without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0059] Clause 1. A light unit, comprising: a work light configured to emit light in a first direction; a warning light configured to emit light in a second direction; a hinge coupled between the work light and the warning light such that the work light and the warning light can rotate relative to each other independently about the hinge from a storage position to a deployed position; a user interface provided on the warning light, the user interface including: a work light actuator that can be engaged to actuate the work light; and a warning light actuator that can be engaged independently of the work light actuator to actuate the warning light.

[0060] Clause 2. The light unit according to Clause 1, wherein the warning light can rotate approximately 200 degrees relative to the work light from the storage position.

[0061] Clause 3. The light unit according to Clause 2, wherein the storage position is defined by a back-to-back arrangement of the work light and the warning light.

[0062] Clause 4. The light unit according to Clause 1, wherein the hinge defines a cavity configured to receive a battery configured to provide power to each of the work light and the warning light.

[0063] Clause 5. The optical unit as described in Clause 1, wherein the work light actuator includes at least two work light modes, and wherein the warning light actuator includes at least two warning light modes independent of these work light modes.

[0064] Clause 6. The optical unit as described in Clause 5, wherein the at least two work light modes include two or more of a low intensity mode, a medium intensity mode, and a high intensity mode.

[0065] Clause 7. The optical unit as described in Clause 5, wherein the at least two warning light modes include two or more of a steady mode, a flash mode, and a tracer mode.

[0066] Clause 8. The optical unit as described in Clause 1, wherein the work light includes a first frame, and the warning light includes a second frame different from the first frame, and wherein at least one of the first frame and the second frame includes a magnet.

[0067] Clause 9. The optical unit as described in Clause 1, wherein only the work light includes an orifice configured to be grasped by a user.

[0068] Clause 10. The optical unit as described in Clause 1, wherein the warning light further includes a circuit board electrically coupled to the work light and the warning light, and wherein the circuit board is configured to control the output of each of the work light and the warning light.

[0069] Clause 11. The optical unit as described in Clause 10, wherein the circuit board further includes a user interface, and the user interface includes a work light actuator and a warning light actuator disposed only on the work light or the warning light.

[0070] Clause 12. The optical unit as described in Clause 11, wherein the circuit board is a first circuit board, and the optical unit further includes a second circuit board electrically coupled between the first circuit board and the work light, and a third circuit board electrically coupled between the first circuit board and the warning light.

[0071] Clause 13. An optical unit, comprising: a work light including a first hinge portion through which a pivot axis extends; and a warning light including a second hinge portion rotatably coupled to the first hinge portion about the pivot axis; wherein the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion cooperatively define a cavity configured to receive a power source to supply power to each of the work light and the warning light.

[0072] Clause 14. The optical unit as described in Clause 13, wherein each of the work light and the warning light is pivotable about the pivot axis by approximately 200 degrees from a storage position where the work light and the warning light are arranged back to back.

[0073] Clause 15. The optical unit as described in Clause 13, further comprising a first circuit board electrically coupled to the work light and a second circuit board coupled to the warning light.

[0074] Clause 16. The optical unit as described in Clause 15, wherein the first circuit board includes a user interface, and the user interface includes a work light actuator and a warning light actuator that are provided only on the work light or the warning light.

[0075] Clause 17. The optical unit as described in Clause 15, further comprising a second circuit board electrically coupled between the first circuit board and the work light, and a third circuit board electrically coupled between the first circuit board and the warning light.

[0076] Clause 18. An optical unit, comprising: a work light fixture, the work light fixture including: a work light frame that defines a plurality of frame segments and at least one orifice formed between these frame segments; a first LED disposed at a central portion of these frame segments; and a first hinge portion coupled to at least one of the plurality of frame segments; and a warning light fixture, the warning light fixture including: a warning light frame having a second hinge portion pivotally coupled to the first hinge portion, the warning light frame further having a first portion that defines an outer periphery of the warning light frame and a second portion spaced apart from the first portion toward the center of the warning light frame; a channel defined between the first portion and the second portion; a second LED disposed within the channel; and a circuit board supported by the second portion, the circuit board configured to control an output of each of the first LED and the second LED; wherein the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion cooperatively define a cylindrical body configured to receive a power source.

[0077] Clause 19. The optical unit as described in Clause 18, wherein the circuit board includes a user interface having a work light actuator and a warning light actuator, and the work light actuator and the warning light actuator are independently actuable to control the work light and the warning light.

[0078] Clause 20. The optical unit as described in Clause 19, wherein the work light actuator is configured to switch the work light between at least two different work light modes, and wherein the warning light actuator is configured to switch the warning light between at least two different warning light modes.

Claims

1. An optical unit, comprising: A working light configured to emit light in a first direction; A warning light configured to emit light in a second direction; A hinge coupled between the working light and the warning light such that the working light and the warning light can rotate relative to each other independently about the hinge from a storage position to a deployed position; A user interface coupled to the warning light and comprising: a working light actuator that can be engaged to actuate the working light; And a warning light actuator that can be engaged independently of the working light actuator to actuate the warning light.

2. The optical unit according to claim 1, wherein, The warning light can rotate approximately 200 degrees relative to the working light from the storage position.

3. The optical unit according to claim 2, wherein, The storage position is defined by a back-to-back arrangement of the working light and the warning light.

4. The optical unit according to claim 1, wherein, The hinge defines a cavity configured to receive a battery, and the battery is configured to supply power to each of the working light and the warning light.

5. The optical unit according to claim 1, wherein, The working light actuator includes at least two working light modes, and wherein the warning light actuator includes at least two warning light modes independent of these working light modes.

6. The optical unit according to claim 5, wherein, The at least two working light modes include two or more of a low-intensity mode, a medium-intensity mode, and a high-intensity mode.

7. The optical unit according to claim 5, wherein, The at least two warning light modes include two or more of a steady mode, a flash mode, and a tracer mode.

8. The optical unit according to claim 1, wherein, The working light includes a first frame, and the warning light includes a second frame different from the first frame, and wherein at least one of the first frame and the second frame includes a magnet.

9. The optical unit according to claim 1, wherein, Only the working light includes an aperture configured to be grasped by a user.

10. The optical unit according to claim 1, wherein, The warning light further includes a circuit board electrically coupled to the working light and the warning light, and wherein the circuit board is configured to control the output of each of the working light and the warning light.

11. The optical unit according to claim 10, wherein, The circuit board further includes a user interface, and the user interface includes a working light actuator and a warning light actuator provided only on the working light or the warning light.

12. The optical unit according to claim 11, wherein, The circuit board is a first circuit board, and the optical unit further includes a second circuit board electrically coupled between the first circuit board and the working light, and a third circuit board electrically coupled between the first circuit board and the warning light.

13. An optical unit, comprising: A working light including a first hinge portion through which a pivot axis extends; And A warning light including a second hinge portion rotatably coupled to the first hinge portion about the pivot axis; Wherein the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion cooperatively define a cavity configured to receive a power source to supply power to each of the working light and the warning light.

14. The optical unit according to claim 13, wherein, Each of the working light and the warning light can pivot approximately 200 degrees about the pivot axis from a storage position where the working light and the warning light are in a back-to-back arrangement.

15. The optical unit according to claim 13, further comprising a first circuit board electrically coupled to the working light and a second circuit board coupled to the warning light.

16. The optical unit according to claim 15, wherein, The first circuit board includes a user interface, and the user interface includes a working light actuator and a warning light actuator provided only on the working light or the warning light.

17. The optical unit as claimed in claim 15, further comprising a second circuit board electrically connected between the first circuit board and the working lamp, and a third circuit board electrically connected between the first circuit board and the warning lamp.

18. An optical unit, comprising: A working lamp fixture, the working lamp fixture comprising: A working lamp frame, the working lamp frame defining a plurality of frame segments and at least one orifice formed between these frame segments; A first LED, the first LED being disposed at a central portion of these frame segments; and A first hinge portion, the first hinge portion being coupled to at least one of the plurality of frame segments; and A warning lamp fixture, the warning lamp fixture comprising: A warning lamp frame, the warning lamp frame having a second hinge portion pivotally coupled to the first hinge portion, the warning lamp frame further having a first portion defining an outer periphery of the warning lamp frame and a second portion spaced apart from the first portion toward the center of the warning lamp frame; A passage, the passage being defined between the first portion and the second portion; A second LED, the second LED being disposed within the passage; and A circuit board, the circuit board being supported by the second portion, the circuit board being configured to control the output of each of the first LED and the second LED; Wherein, the first hinge portion and the second hinge portion cooperatively define a cylindrical body configured to receive a power source.

19. The optical unit according to claim 18, wherein, The circuit board includes a user interface having a working lamp actuator and a warning lamp actuator, the working lamp actuator and the warning lamp actuator being independently actuable to control the working lamp and the warning lamp.

20. The optical unit according to claim 19, wherein, The working lamp actuator is configured to cause the working lamp to switch between at least two different working lamp modes, and wherein, the warning lamp actuator is configured to cause the warning lamp to switch between at least two different warning lamp modes.

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