Flashlight and method of using flashlight

Abstract

Flashlights and methods of using flashlights are disclosed. The flashlight includes a body defining a longitudinal axis and a head releasably attached to the body. The head includes a headlight defining a first axis parallel to the longitudinal axis and a downlight defining a second axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. A power supply assembly disposed within the body includes at least one battery disposed within a heat sink formed of a thermally conductive metal material. The head is selectively attachable to the body in either of a first position and a second position. The lower lamp is movable between a first position in which the lower lamp faces a first direction relative to the body and a second position in which the lower lamp faces a second direction relative to the body, the second direction being opposite to the first direction.

Description

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application is a partial continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 18 / 410,344, titled "Flashlight Having Multi - Position Head With Downlight", filed on Jan. 11, 2024, and is hereby relied upon and incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. Technical Field

[0003] Generally, embodiments of the present invention relate to handheld and helmet - mounted flashlights. Various specific embodiments of the present invention particularly relate to flashlights having a detachable head that includes a forward light and a downlight, wherein the head can be connected to a body or a handle in at least two positions. The flashlight can be mounted, for example, on a helmet, and regardless of which side of the helmet the flashlight is mounted on, the forward light and the downlight face the same respective directions. Background Art

[0004] Various handheld and user - wearable lights and flashlights are known. Additionally, it is known to provide a flashlight with a first light that shines forward from the flashlight; and a second light or group of lights that shine downward from the flashlight, for example to illuminate the path of the flashlight user. For example, first responders such as military personnel, emergency workers, and firefighters can use such lights. Such lights can be equipped with clips that enable the flashlight to be fixed to the user's clothing (such as a belt, coat, harness, or backpack), so that the user does not need to hold the flashlight and can provide both forward light and downward light to illuminate the path. U.S. Patent No. 9,074,739, titled "Flashlight with Multiple Light Sources", discloses an example of such a light, and its entire content is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Additionally, it is known to provide a flashlight with a battery warning indicator that can emit light in a given color to indicate that the flashlight's battery will be depleted within a predetermined amount of time. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a flashlight. The flashlight includes a body defining a longitudinal axis and a head releasably attached to the body. The head includes a front light defining a first axis parallel to the longitudinal axis and a downlight defining a second axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Attachment features are provided on a side of the body. The head is selectively attachable to the body in either a first position or a second position. In the first position, the downlight faces a first direction relative to the body, and in the second position, the downlight faces a second direction relative to the body, the second direction being opposite to the first direction.

[0006] In another embodiment, the present invention provides a flashlight. The flashlight includes a body and a head releasably attached to the body. The head defines a proximal end and a distal end and includes a first light facing a first direction and a second light facing a second direction. The first and second directions are perpendicular to each other. An indicator ring is provided at the proximal end of the head. A power source is provided in the body and is in electrical communication with the first and second lights and the indicator ring. The indicator ring selectively emits light around its perimeter in response to the charge level of the power source.

[0007] In another embodiment, the present invention provides a method of using a flashlight. The method includes providing a flashlight that includes a body defining a longitudinal axis and a head selectively attachable to the body. The head includes a first light defining a first axis parallel to the longitudinal axis and a second light defining a second axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The method further includes attaching the head to the body in a first position, wherein the second light faces a first direction relative to the body. Additionally, the method includes repositioning the head relative to the body in a second position, wherein the second light faces a second direction relative to the body that is opposite to the first direction.

[0008] In yet another embodiment, the present invention provides a flashlight. The flashlight includes: a body defining a longitudinal axis; and a head coupled to the body by a two-position bayonet fitting. The head includes: a first light defining a first axis parallel to the longitudinal axis; and a second light defining a second axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. When the head is assembled to the body in a first orientation by the two-position bayonet fitting, the second light faces a first direction. When the head is assembled to the body in a second orientation by the two-position bayonet fitting, the second light faces a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0009] According to another embodiment, the present invention includes a flashlight. The flashlight includes: a body that defines a longitudinal axis; and a head that is releasably attached to the body. The head includes: a front light that defines a first axis parallel to the longitudinal axis; and a downlight that defines a second axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The flashlight further includes a power supply assembly that includes at least one battery and at least one heat sink, the at least one heat sink being coupled to an outer surface of the at least one battery to dissipate heat from the battery during use of the flashlight. The at least one heat sink includes at least one aluminum sleeve.

[0010] In a further embodiment, the present invention includes a flashlight that includes a body and a head releasably attached to the body, the head defining a proximal end and a distal end. The head includes a first light facing a first direction and a second light facing a second direction. The first and second directions are perpendicular to each other. A power supply assembly is disposed in the body and is in electrical communication with the first and second lights. The power supply assembly includes at least one battery that is disposed within a heat sink formed of a thermally conductive metal material.

[0011] Another embodiment of the present invention includes a method of using a flashlight. The method includes providing a flashlight that includes a body defining a longitudinal axis and a head selectively attachable to the body. The head includes a first light that defines a first axis parallel to the longitudinal axis and a second light that defines a second axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The flashlight further includes a power supply assembly that includes at least one battery coupled to a heat sink. The method further includes attaching the head to the body in a first position, wherein the second light faces a first direction relative to the body. Additionally, the method includes repositioning the head relative to the body in a second position, wherein the second light faces a second direction opposite the first direction relative to the body. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Reference will now be made to the drawings, which are not necessarily to scale, and in which:

[0013] Figure 1A is a perspective view of a flashlight according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the head of the flashlight is in a first position relative to the body of the flashlight;

[0014] Figure 1B is according to an embodiment of the present invention Figure 1A of a flashlight in a perspective view, wherein the head of the flashlight is in a second position relative to the body;

[0015] Figures 2-3 is a perspective view showing different angles of a flashlight according to an embodiment of the present invention Figure 1A of which the head is in Figure 1B the position shown;

[0016] Figure 4AAccording to an embodiment of the present invention Figure 1A Perspective view of a flashlight, wherein the head of the flashlight has been rotated clockwise from the Figure 1A position shown and then separated from the body of the flashlight;

[0017] Figures 4B-4C According to an embodiment of the present invention Figure 1A Perspective view of a flashlight, wherein the head of the flashlight has been rotated clockwise from the Figure 1B position shown and then separated from the body of the flashlight;

[0018] Figures 5A-5B According to an embodiment of the present invention Figure 1A Exploded view of a flashlight;

[0019] Figure 6 According to an embodiment of the present invention Figure 1A Cross-sectional view of a flashlight;

[0020] Figure 7 Perspective view of a charger unit according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 8 Perspective view of a charger unit according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 9 Perspective view of a charger unit according to a further embodiment of the present invention, wherein three flashlights are docked with the charger unit;

[0023] Figure 10A Schematic diagram of two helmet assemblies according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 10B Is Figure 10A Schematic diagram of a helmet assembly, wherein a flashlight is attached to the helmet assembly;

[0025] Figure 11 Flowchart showing an example method of using a flashlight according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 12A Side perspective view of a flashlight power supply assembly including a radiator according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 12B Shows Figure 12A An alternative embodiment of a flashlight power supply assembly;

[0028] Figure 13 Is Figure 12A Bottom perspective view of a flashlight power supply assembly;

[0029] Figures 14-15 According to an embodiment of the present inventionFigure 1A Exploded view of a flashlight, which includes Figure 12B the power supply assembly of

[0030] Figure 16 is taken along a line passing through the power supply assembly Figures 14-15 Cross-sectional view of an assembled flashlight of

[0031] Figure 17 Is an elevation view of the power supply assembly according to yet another embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figures 18-19 Is Figure 1A Exploded view of a flashlight, which includes Figure 17 the power supply assembly of

[0033] Figure 20 is taken along a line passing through the flashlight power supply assembly Figures 18-19 Cross-sectional view of an assembled flashlight of Detailed Description of the Invention

[0034] Reference will now be made in detail to the presently preferred embodiments of the present invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention and not limitation thereof. In fact, those skilled in the art will appreciate that modifications and variations can be made to the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit thereof. For example, features shown or described as part of one embodiment can be used in another embodiment to yield a further embodiment. Accordingly, the present invention is intended to cover modifications and variations within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0035] As used herein, terms referring to directions or positions relative to the orientation of the flashlight, such as but not limited to "vertical", "horizontal", "upper", "lower", "front" or "rear", refer to the directions and relative positions as shown in the figures herein relative to the orientation of the flashlight in its normal intended operation. Thus, for example, the terms "vertical" and "upper" refer to the vertical direction and relative upper position in the perspective view in the figures and should be understood in that context, even with respect to a device that may be oriented differently. The term "substantially" as used herein should be interpreted as "almost" or "nearly", for example to account for the design and manufacturing tolerances of the device.

[0036] In addition, the term "or" as used in this application and the appended claims is intended to mean an inclusive "or" rather than an exclusive "or". That is, unless otherwise specified or the context clearly indicates otherwise, the phrase "X employs A or B" is intended to represent any natural inclusive arrangement. That is, the phrase "X employs A or B" is satisfied by any of the following: X employs A; X employs B; or X employs both A and B. In addition, unless otherwise specified or the context clearly indicates a singular form, the articles "a" and "an" used in this application and the appended claims are generally to be construed as meaning "one or more". Throughout the specification and claims, unless the context otherwise requires, the following terms have at least the meanings explicitly associated herein. The meanings determined below do not necessarily limit the terms, but merely provide illustrative examples for the terms. The meanings of "a", "an", and "the" may include plural references, and the meaning of "in" may include "in" and "on". The phrase "in one embodiment" as used herein does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, although it may. The phrase "at least one of A and B" is satisfied by any one of A alone, B alone, A and B alone, and A and B in combination with other cases. The phrase "one of A and B" is satisfied by A, whether or not B also exists, and by B, whether or not A also exists.

[0037] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a flashlight that includes a body and a head that can be attached to the body in at least two positions. The head includes a first light configured to emit light in a first direction, where the first direction is generally in the forward direction of the flashlight. In various embodiments, the head further includes a second light configured to emit light in a second direction, for example, the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction. The flashlight can be attached to a helmet on a first side of the helmet or a second side of the helmet. When located on the first side of the helmet, the head of the flashlight can be in a first position relative to the flashlight body such that the second light generally emits light in a downward direction. When located on the second side of the helmet, the head of the flashlight can be in a second position rather than the first position such that the second light can still generally emit light in a downward direction.

[0038] By providing a head configured to be attached to the body in at least two positions, the second light can effectively be used as a downlight regardless of which side of the helmet the flashlight is attached to. If the head cannot be selectively attached, when the flashlight is located on the first side of the helmet, the light at the second light may be emitted downward, but when the flashlight is located on the second side of the helmet, the light at the second light will be emitted upward, and vice versa. In addition, although embodiments are envisioned in which the flashlight can have a head including three or more lights, in some embodiments, by allowing the head to be selectively attached in a first position and a second position, the head only needs to be provided with a first front light and a second downlight.

[0039] Accordingly, flashlights according to various embodiments can be manufactured in a more cost-effective manner. Additionally, flashlights according to various embodiments allow a user to attach the flashlight to a preferred side of a helmet and / or may also allow the helmet to be used with other specialized equipment (e.g., a headset) used by military personnel, first responders, or other emergency personnel. For example, when certain specialized equipment must be placed on one side of the helmet and would interfere with the flashlight, the flashlight can be moved to the other side of the helmet so that the flashlight and the other specialized equipment can be used.

[0040] In this regard, Figures 1A-3 A flashlight 100 according to one embodiment is shown. The flashlight 100 extends between a first end 114A and a second end 114B and includes a body 102. The body 102 defines a longitudinal axis A1, and the longitudinal axis A1 is substantially parallel to Figure 1A the X-axis in

[0041] The flashlight 100 further includes a head 106, which in this embodiment is releasably attached to the body 102. The head 106 includes a first light 120 (e.g., a front or forward-facing light) that defines a first axis. In Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figures 2-3 the first axis and the longitudinal axis A1 are the same, but in other embodiments, these axes can be separate and parallel. In still other embodiments, the first axis and the longitudinal axis can be at an acute angle to each other. The head 106 further includes a second light 122 (e.g., a downlight or downward-facing light). The second light 122 defines a second axis. In the embodiment of Figure 1A , the second light 122 generally emits light in a first direction D1 along the second axis. In this embodiment, the second axis is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A1 and the first axis. As discussed in more detail herein, in Figure 1B the second light 122 generally emits light in a second direction D2 along the second axis, where the second direction D2 is opposite to the first direction D1.

[0042] Although not required in all embodiments, in the illustrated embodiment, a member 108 is coupled to the body on its side 109. The member 108 can facilitate attaching electrical contacts 170A, 170B to the body 102 and can also serve as a handgrip for the user. Additionally, in this embodiment, the member 108 includes an attachment feature 108A, but in other embodiments, if provided, the attachment feature can be included at other locations on and / or integrally formed with the body 108A. In this embodiment, the attachment feature 108A is configured to engage a complementary bracket, which can be coupled to, for example, the user's clothing, backpack, or to a helmet. For example, referring toFigure 10A , the attachment feature 108A can enable a bracket 1074A that can be attached to the first side 1072C of the helmet 1071A, or the attachment feature 108A can enable a bracket 1074B that can be attached to the second side 1072D’ of the helmet 1071B. The attachment feature 108A can take any suitable form in various embodiments, and its size and shape will depend in particular on the geometry of the specific bracket or helmet to which it is to be attached, etc. However, here, the attachment feature 108A includes a cylindrical protrusion having a circumferential notch, and the size of the circumferential notch is set to receive a tab or a slot in the bracket.

[0043] Similarly, not all embodiments require that, in this embodiment, the member 108 defines an opening 108B. When the flashlight 100 is fully assembled as Figure 2 shown, the opening 108B can expose the plate 128. The plate 128 can present information about the flashlight 100 and / or serve as a label or contain some other markings. Similarly, in this embodiment, a recess 102A is defined in the side 109 near the second end 114B of the flashlight 100 and near the opening 108B. In some embodiments, the recess 102A can define an opening through which a strap can be attached. However, in the shown embodiment, a plate 130 is disposed in the recess 102A. In some embodiments, the plate 130 can provide information or markings similar to those of the plate 128.

[0044] As described above, the electrical contacts 170A, 170B are coupled to the body 102 through the member 108. As shown, the electrical contacts 170A, 170B are exposed on the side 109 of the body 102 and extend into the body 102 such that the electrical contacts 170A, 170B form an electrical circuit with other circuits within the body 102. As further discussed herein, the flashlight 100 can be located within a charger unit (such as Figure 7 the charger unit 760). When the flashlight 100 is properly located within the charger unit 760, the electrical contacts 170A, 170B of the flashlight can contact the electrical contacts 768A, 768B of the charger unit 760, thereby allowing an electrical circuit to be formed so that the flashlight 100 can be charged. However, the electrical contacts 170A, 170B can be provided in different shapes or forms, and a different number of electrical contacts 170A, 170B can be used in other embodiments. Alternatively, the flashlight 100 can be charged in other ways, such as by using a plug-in cable, using one or more batteries, etc.

[0045] The head 106 can be selectively and releasably attached to the body 102 in two or more positions. For example, the head 106 is in Figure 1Ais shown in a first position relative to the body 102, and the head 106 is in Figure 1B shown in a second position relative to the body 102. In the first position, the head 106 is attached to the body 102 such that the second light 122 faces in a first direction D1 that extends in the positive Y direction relative to the Y-axis. In Figure 1B the second position shown, the head 106 is attached to the body 102 such that the second light 122 faces in a second direction D2 that is opposite to the first direction D1, and the second direction D2 extends in the negative Y direction relative to the Y-axis.

[0046] In this embodiment, the flashlight 100 further includes an indicator ring 104. As described herein, the indicator ring 104 can be or include an optical element in some embodiments, and thus the indicator ring 104 can be an indicator light in some cases, although this is not required. In this embodiment, when the head 106 is attached to the body 102, the indicator ring 104 is disposed between the head 106 and the body 102, and when the flashlight 100 is assembled, the indicator ring 104 can form a part of the outer surface of the flashlight 100. Although the indicator ring 104 is attached to the head 102 as shown here, the indicator ring 104 can also be attached to the body 102 and / or can be located at other positions on the flashlight 100.

[0047] The indicator ring 104 can be a diffuser or a lens or other optical element in which light travels or is internally reflected and can emit light to indicate the state of the flashlight 100. The indicator ring 104 can also be formed of a translucent plastic material and can be selectively capable of emitting light at least around its perimeter. The indicator ring 104 extends through a 360-degree angular rotation in this embodiment and is thus visible from all sides, but in other embodiments, the indicator ring 104 (or at least its light-emitting portion) can extend less than 360 degrees in other embodiments.

[0048] The indicator ring 104 can emit light in one or more colors based on various criteria related to the operation of the flashlight 100. For example, when the charge level of the power source within the flashlight 100 exceeds a predetermined threshold, the indicator ring 104 can emit light in a first color, and when the charge level of the power source is below the predetermined threshold, the indicator ring 104 can emit light in a second color, although any number of thresholds can be used in various embodiments. In some embodiments, the first color can be green and the second color can be red, but other colors can also be used. In a specific example, when the remaining energy in the battery exceeds thirty-five (35) minutes, the indicator ring 104 will emit green light, and when the remaining energy is less than thirty-five (35) minutes, the indicator ring 104 will emit red light. In this regard, the 35-minute threshold can be used for firefighting or other emergency applications, and if the indicator ring 104 emits red light, it can indicate to the user that the light will not last as long as the air in the user's breathing apparatus. Additionally or alternatively, the indicator ring 104 can provide an indication in other ways, such as flashing light at regular intervals, changing the intensity or brightness level of the light, etc. in the indicator ring 104.

[0049] The indicator ring 104 can also emit light in one or more colors according to different information. For example, the indicator ring 104 can emit light in a first color corresponding to the remaining first operating time amount of the first lamp, and the indicator ring 104 can emit light in a second color corresponding to the remaining second operating time amount of the first lamp, where the second remaining operating time amount is less than the first remaining operating time amount. The indicator ring 104 can also emit light in a certain color according to other characteristics. For example, the color or non-color of the indicator ring 104 can depend on the illumination mode of the first lamp 120 (e.g., floodlight mode, spotlight mode), whether the second lamp 122 is properly positioned relative to the body 102, whether the attachment feature 108A is attached to the helmet, whether the flashlight 100, the first lamp 120, and / or the second lamp 122 are powered on, etc.

[0050] In other embodiments, when the indicator ring 104 does not emit light at all, the indicator ring 104 can indicate that the charge level is above or below a predetermined threshold. For example, when the charge level of the power source within the flashlight 100 exceeds a predetermined threshold, the indicator ring 104 can emit light in a certain color, and when the charge level of the power source is below the predetermined threshold, the indicator ring 104 can not emit light at all. Alternatively, when the charge level of the power source within the flashlight 100 exceeds a predetermined threshold, the indicator ring 104 can not emit light at all, and when the charge level of the power source is below the predetermined threshold, the indicator ring 104 can emit light in a certain color. In some embodiments, the color can be red, green, blue, or white, but other colors can also be used.

[0051] In various embodiments, the first light 120 can be configured to operate in various modes, such as a floodlight and / or a spotlight. In one example, when operating as a floodlight, the first light 120 can generally emit light outwardly within a cone defining an angle of about 90 degrees, wherein the longitudinal axis A1 defines the center of the cone. Additionally, when operating as a spotlight, the first light 120 can generally emit light outwardly within a cone defining an angle of about 12 degrees, wherein a second axis (which is collinear with the first direction D1 and the second direction D2) defines the center of the cone.

[0052] As Figure 1A and 1B Best shown, the flashlight 100 includes a switch 116, which in this embodiment is located at the second end 114B of the flashlight 100, opposite the head 106 located at the first end 114A. The switch 116 can be actuated to cause the first light 120, the second light 122, and / or the indicator ring 104 to emit light in various combinations. The switch 116 is disposed at one end of the body 102 opposite the head 106, which allows a user to more easily turn the flashlight 100 on and off when the flashlight 100 is attached to a helmet and / or the user is wearing gloves. However, in other embodiments, the switch 116 (or other suitable switch) can be located at other positions on the body 102 or the flashlight 100.

[0053] In the illustrated embodiment, the body 102 defines openings 102B, 103 at the second end 114B of the flashlight 100. As shown, these openings 102B, 103 are located on the back of the body 102, facing in the negative X direction, but the openings 102B, 103 can be located at other positions on the body 102. The opening 102B allows the charging indicator 118 to extend through the opening 102B such that a user can view the charging indicator 118. The charging indicator 118 in this embodiment includes one or more lights to indicate the charging level of the power source 154 within the flashlight. The lights of the charging indicator 118 can emit light in red, but in other embodiments, the lights of the charging indicator 118 can emit light in other colors. In some embodiments, the charging indicator 118 can include four lights, and when all four lights are lit, the charging amount can be maximum, while when zero or only one light is lit, the charging amount can be minimum. The charging indicator 118 can also operate in other modes or configurations, such as causing its lights to blink when the charging level of the flashlight is very low. Additionally or alternatively, when the flashlight 100 is being actively charged, the lights of the charging indicator 118 can be caused to blink so that the user knows that the flashlight 100 is correctly positioned in the charger unit.

[0054] The opening 103 allows the switch 116 to extend through the opening 103 so that the switch 116 can be accessed. The switch 116 is a push-button switch in the present embodiment, but in other embodiments, the switch 116 can also be provided in other forms. As previously mentioned, the switch 116 can optionally allow the flashlight 100 to operate in three or more modes. For example, the switch 116 can be pressed once to allow the flashlight 100 to operate in a first mode with both the first light and the second light on, the switch can be pressed a second time to allow the flashlight 100 to operate in a second mode where the first light is on and the second light is off, the switch can be pressed a third time to allow the flashlight 100 to operate in a third mode where the first light is off and the second light is on, and the switch can be pressed a fourth time to turn off the flashlight 100. In some embodiments, the switch 116 and / or other switches or user interfaces can enable the brightness level of the flashlight to be modified.

[0055] Now referring to Figures 4A-4C , the flashlight 100 is shown with the head 106 rotated clockwise relative to the body 102 from the Figure 1B position shown and then separated from the body 102. In this regard, in various embodiments, the flashlight 100 can include a fitting through which the head 106 is releasably coupled to the body 102 (with or without the indicia ring 104). In some exemplary embodiments, the fitting can be a bayonet fitting or the like that allows the head 106 to be coupled to the body 102 in at least two different orientations. However, other fittings can be used in other embodiments, including threaded fittings, snap fittings, and latches.

[0056] In this regard, one exemplary fitting includes a concave member 124A (see Figures 4A-4B ), which in this case is coupled to the head 106, and a convex member 124B (see Figure 4C) which is coupled to the body 102 in this case, but of course, in other embodiments, the situation may be reversed. In this embodiment, the concave member 124A includes a generally cylindrical solid member that projects longitudinally outward from the head 106, and a pair of "L"-shaped slots or grooves 124A' are defined opposite to each other in the outer peripheral cylindrical surface. Each slot or groove 124A' may include a vertical portion that extends parallel to the longitudinal axis A1, the angular range of which is about sixty (60) degrees, and a circumferential portion that extends around a part of the outer peripheral cylindrical surface, for example, when facing the concave member 124A, by an angle of about ninety (90) degrees beyond the vertical portion in the clockwise direction. The reference numeral 124A" denotes the top surface of the concave member 124A, which extends radially outward from the circumferential portion of the slot or groove 124A', but has a smaller radius at the vertical portion of the slot or groove 124A'. The concave member 124A also has two opposite stop portions where no groove or slot is defined, and the stop portions extend between each slot or groove 124A' by about thirty (30) degrees. Additionally, as Figure 6 Best shown, in this embodiment, the indicating ring 104 surrounds and carries the concave member 124A, and the indicating ring 104 also defines a slot whose diameter exceeds the diameters of the concave member 124A and the convex member 124B to allow the convex member 124B to be received on the concave member 124A and located within the indicating ring 104 when the head 106 is coupled to the body 102.

[0057] In the embodiment shown in the figure, when the top surface 124A" is observed in a plan view, the vertical portions of the slots or grooves 124A' are set at angular positions between about sixty (60) degrees and about one hundred and twenty (120) degrees and between about two hundred and forty (240) degrees and about three hundred (300) degrees. The circumferential portions of the slots or grooves 124A' are set at angular positions between about one hundred and twenty (120) degrees and about two hundred and ten (210) degrees and between about two hundred and forty (240) degrees and about thirty (30) degrees.

[0058] The convex member 124B in this embodiment includes a generally cylindrical collar that projects longitudinally outward from the body 102. The collar defines an internal opening 124B' having a diameter slightly larger than the diameter of the top surface 124A" of the concave member 124A. Additionally, the collar defines a pair of tabs 124B" that project radially inward from the collar. The tabs 124B" preferably have a shape and angular range that is complementary to the shape and angular range of the vertical portion of the slot or groove 124A', and a thickness corresponding to the thickness of the circumferential portion of the slot or groove 124A'. The tabs 124B" are disposed opposite each other on the collar and are in an angular position that places the second lamp 122 in the Figure 1A first position shown or Figure 1B the second position shown when the head 106 is coupled to the body 102 and then rotated a predetermined amount (e.g., ninety (90) degrees) to mate the convex member 124B and the concave member 124A of the fitting.

[0059] In this regard, when the head 106 is engaged with the body 102 in the longitudinal direction, the tabs 124B" are first received in the vertical portions of the slots or grooves 124A'. The indicator ring 104 and the body 102 may include markings to assist in the assembly of the flashlight 100 and to help position the tabs 124B" in the slots or grooves 124A'. For example, the indicator ring 104 in this embodiment includes markings 110 near the centers of its two opposite sides, and the body 102 includes markings 112. When assembling the head 106 with the body 102, the user can align one of the markings 110 with the marking 112 (depending on which direction the user desires the second lamp 122 to face after assembly) so that when the head 106 and the body 102 are moved longitudinally together, the tabs 124B" will be received in the slots or grooves 124A'. Then, the user can rotate the head 106 counterclockwise relative to the body 102 to slide the tabs 124B" within the circumferential portions of each slot or groove 124A' until they reach the stop portion of the concave member 124A.

[0060] In Figure 4B the example of, the direction D1 of the second lamp 122 is aligned with the negative Z-axis. If the user were to engage the head 106 with the body 102 (align the markings 110 and 112) and then rotate the head 106 counterclockwise by approximately ninety (90) degrees, the second lamp 122 would move to Figure 1BThe second position shown, where the direction D2 is aligned with the negative Y-axis. If in this position, for example, the second light on the side of the helmet to which the flashlight 100 is to be connected by the user faces the wrong direction, the user can rotate the head 106 clockwise by ninety (90) degrees relative to the body 102 and then separate the head 106 from the body 102. Then, the user can rotate the head 106 one hundred and eighty (180) degrees about the longitudinal axis A1 so that the opposite marking 110 is at the top (and the direction D1 is aligned with the positive Z-axis, as Figure 4A shown). Then, the user can reassemble the head 106 with the body 102. When doing so, the head 106 will be rotated such that the second light 122 is in the Figure 1A first position shown (where the direction D1 is aligned with the positive Y-axis).

[0061] Of course, in other embodiments, the concave member 124A may include a cylindrical collar in which an opening is defined, and the convex member 124B may include a cylindrical entity having a radially extending protrusion. Those skilled in the art will understand that other configurations can be envisioned and are within the scope of the present invention.

[0062] One or more electrical contacts 126B are located on the body 102, and in this embodiment, these electrical contacts 126B are arranged in rows within the internal opening 124B', more specifically, in the sealing member 148 that houses the convex member 124B. The head 106 also includes one or more pins 126A, and in this embodiment, the pins 126A are positioned such that they project in rows from the concave member 124A. However, in other embodiments, the relative positions of the pins 126A and the electrical contacts 126B may be reversed, and the pins 126A and the contacts 126 need not be arranged in rows. In any case, once the head 106 and the body 102 are assembled together, the pins 126A are preferably oriented to engage the electrical contacts 126B regardless of the orientation of the head 106 relative to the body 102. (When the head 106 and the body 102 are disassembled from each other, for example, as Figure 4B and 4C shown, the rows of pins 126A and the rows of contacts 126B may be arranged at right angles to each other.) It can be understood that the engagement between the pins 126A and the electrical contacts 126B enables electricity to be conducted from the body 102 to the electrical components in the head 106.

[0063] The exemplary flashlight 100 is shown in exploded view in Figures 5A-5B and in Figure 6is shown in cross-section. Referring to these figures, the body 102 of the flashlight 100 is provided in the form of a hollow shell, which in various embodiments may have any suitable cross-sectional shape, or a cross-sectional shape that varies in the longitudinal direction. In some embodiments, the body 102 may include a plastic material or a polyester resin material, but in other embodiments, the body 102 may include other materials.

[0064] In this embodiment, the body 102 also defines openings 102B and 103, sized to receive a switch assembly 116A that includes the switch 116 and the charging indicator 118 discussed above. As shown, the switch assembly 116A is assembled within the body 102 such that the switch 116 extends through the opening 103 and such that the charging indicator 118 extends through the opening 102B.

[0065] As Figure 5B most readily seen in, the head 106 is provided in the form of a hollow shell, also having any suitable cross-sectional shape, or a cross-sectional shape that varies in the longitudinal direction, with a central bore extending therethrough. The head 106 is located at the first end 114A of the flashlight 100. The indicator ring 104 is coupled to the proximal end of the head 106, and at the distal end of the head 106, the central bore defines an opening 106A through which light from the first lamp 120 is emitted. The head 106 also defines a second opening 106B in the side of the head 106 through which light from the second lamp 122 is emitted.

[0066] The flashlight 100 also includes a lamp cover 131, which may be or include an optical element, such as a lens, a diffuser, etc., or may simply be a transparent protective sheet through which light can pass and which is used to protect the lamp from damage. The lamp cover 131 in this embodiment has a flat front surface that completely covers the first opening 106A when the lamp cover 131 is disposed within the head 106. The lamp cover 131 also includes a depending skirt, the peripheral dimensions of which are complementary to the inner peripheral dimensions of the head 106 but are slightly less radially than the inner peripheral dimensions of the head 106. Thus, when the lamp cover 131 is disposed within the head 106, the depending skirt completely covers the second opening 106B. In some embodiments, the lens 131 may include a polycarbonate material, but any suitable material may be used.

[0067] In the present embodiment, a first substrate 140 (e.g., a printed circuit board (PCB)) is further provided within the head 106, and one or more light sources 140A are disposed thereon. The light sources 140A operate together as the first lamp 120 and, in one embodiment, may be or include high-intensity light-emitting diodes (LEDs), but other light sources may also be used. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the first substrate 140 includes circuitry that is configured to control the light sources 140A (either individually or in combination with other PCBs or processing circuitry in the flashlight 100), and the circuitry is in electrical communication with other electrical components (such as the power source 154 and other electronic circuitry) in the head 106 and the body 102. Between the substrate 140 and the lamp housing 131 are one or more reflectors 134, which are mounted in a reflector bracket 132. In this embodiment, the light sources 140A include three LEDs, and thus three reflectors 134 are provided. As shown in FIG. 5, the reflectors 134 may be arranged in a honeycomb pattern, and each reflector may be disposed above a corresponding light source 140A. The reflector bracket 132 may be formed of an aluminum material, such as type II anodized aluminum.

[0068] In addition, the head 106 in the present embodiment includes a second substrate 136 (e.g., a PCB), on which one or more light sources (not shown) are disposed. In one embodiment, these light sources may likewise be high-intensity LEDs, or include high-intensity LEDs, and they may operate together or individually to illuminate the indicator ring 104, as described herein. The second substrate 136 includes circuitry that is configured to control the light sources thereon and is also in electrical communication with the first substrate 140 and other electrical components in the body 102. As Figure 6 shown, the second substrate 136 may be positioned at the proximal end of the head 106 and may be received within the circumferential lip of the indicator ring 104. The circumferential lip may, for example, have an inner diameter sized to closely receive the second substrate 136 and an outer diameter sized to closely receive within an opening defined at the proximal end of the head 106. As described above, in this embodiment, the concave member 124A is also carried within the indicator ring 104, and the pin 126A may pass through the concave member 124A to couple with the second substrate 136 and be in electrical communication with the circuitry thereon. Also as described above, in order to provide electrical communication between the circuitry in the body 102 and the head 106, the pin 126A engages an electrical contact 126B disposed within and extending through the sealing member 148. The electrical contact 126B is coupled to a third substrate 152, which is also in electrical communication with the power source 154.

[0069] In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting bracket 138 is disposed in the head 106 between the first and second substrates 140, 136, and the substrates 140, 136 are mounted to the mounting bracket 138 using suitable fasteners. The mounting bracket 138 can also function as a heat sink for cooling the respective light sources and can provide one or more longitudinal holes through which the first substrate 140 can communicate with the second substrate 136 via suitable electrical wires.

[0070] In various embodiments, the flashlight 100 is preferably dust-proof and can be ATEX classified, for example, for zones 0 to 20. In this regard, the sealing member 148 is preferably received tightly in an opening defined at the distal end of the body 104, and a sealing ring 150 can be provided between the sealing member 148 and the body 102. A sealing ring 146 can also be provided between the convex member 124B and the sealing member 148. When the head 106 and the body 102 are coupled together, as Figure 6 shown, the sealing ring 146 is also disposed inside the indicating ring 104. In some embodiments, the sealing rings 146, 150 can be or include O-rings, etc., and can be formed of or include ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) material.

[0071] As described above, the body 102 also houses a power source 154. In particular, in various embodiments, the power source 154 can be or include a battery, a battery pack, a capacitor, or other suitable power source. When the power source 154 is a battery pack, the battery pack can be a lithium-ion battery pack. In some embodiments, the power source 154 can be replaceable. The power source 154 in this embodiment is received in a carrier 158 that defines a framework for supporting the power source 154 and the third substrate 152 within the body 102. As shown, the carrier 158 surrounds the power source 154 and provides slots that are configured to receive portions of the third substrate 152 that extend perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A1, one of which is coupled to the electrical contact 126B. The longitudinal portion of the third substrate 152 can also be received in slots defined in the carrier 158 or otherwise coupled to the carrier 158. In some embodiments, the carrier 158 can also function as a heat sink for certain electrical components.

[0072] Similarly, the power source 154 provides power to the circuits and other electrical components in the body 102 and the head 106 via the third substrate 152. In this regard, the power source 154 can be held in place relative to the third substrate 152 by a pair of clamps 152A ( Figure 5B ) and can be electrically connected through suitable electrical contacts ( Figure 6) is in electrical communication with the third substrate 152. The third substrate 152 also has a portion including an electrical button or switch that engages with the physical switch 116. The electrical contacts 170A, 170B also extend through the body 102 such that they are in electrical communication with the third substrate 152 at positions 170A' and 170B', and can direct electrical power to the power source 154 for charging. In some embodiments, the third substrate 152 may include a main processing circuit that operates the flashlight 100 in response to actuation of the switch 116 by the user and otherwise performs the functions described herein.

[0073] The above-described exemplary flashlight can be charged in various charger units, one example of which is as Figure 7 shown. In this regard, the charger unit 760 is configured to charge one flashlight at a time, but other charger units can be used that can charge multiple flashlights at a time. The charger unit 760 includes a body 761. The body 761 defines a first side 763A and a second side 763B. The body 761 also defines a recess 766 in which the flashlight can rest, and the recess 766 is located between the first side 763A and the second side 763B. The peripheral dimensions of the recess 766 can correspond to the peripheral dimensions of the attachment member 108A of the flashlight 100. Additionally, the charger unit 760 includes electrical contacts 768A, 768B within the recess 766. When the flashlight 100 is properly received within the recess 766, the electrical contacts 170A, 170B of the flashlight 100 can contact the electrical contacts 768A, 768B to allow current to flow through each contact and into the flashlight 100.

[0074] To assist in positioning the flashlight and in holding the flashlight in place, the charger unit 760 includes two arms 762, 764. The arm 762 is positioned on the first side 763A, and the arm 762 includes an extension portion 762A that extends from the arm 762 toward the second side 763B. The arm 764 is positioned on the second side 763B, and the arm 764 includes an extension portion 764A that extends from the arm 764 toward the first side 763A. Thus, when the flashlight is received within the recess 766, both extension portions 762A, 764A tend to extend over the flashlight.

[0075] Now turning to Figure 8 , the charger unit 860 is provided with a first sub-unit 860A and a second sub-unit 860B, each of the two sub-units being configured to charge a respective flashlight 100. As shown, each of the sub-units 860A and 860B is similar to the above-described charger unit 760, where the same reference numerals denote the same components.

[0076] Now referring to Figure 9, the charger unit 960 is provided with a first sub-unit 960A, a second sub-unit 960B, and a third sub-unit 960C, where each of the three sub-units 960A - 960B is configured to charge the corresponding flashlight among flashlights 900A - 900C. In Figure 9 , the first sub-unit 960A is being actively used to charge the first flashlight 900A, the second sub-unit 960B is being actively used to charge the second flashlight 900B, and the third sub-unit 960C is being actively used to charge the third flashlight 900C. Each of the sub-units 960A - 960C may have a structure similar to that of the sub-units 860A, 860B of the charger unit 860 as in Figure 8 , and each of the flashlights 900A - 900C may be similar to the above-mentioned flashlight 100. Each of the sub-units 960A - 960C includes arms. For example, the third sub-unit 960C includes arms 962, 964. These arms 962, 964 may also include extension portions 962A, 964A similar to those in other embodiments described herein.

[0077] Figure 10A Helmet assemblies 1078A, 1078B are shown. In some embodiments, the helmet assemblies 1078A, 1078B may also include the flashlight itself, as Figure 10B shown, but Figure 10A the flashlight is not shown in

[0078] , so the brackets 1074A, 1074B can be seen. First, referring to the helmet assembly 1078A, the helmet assembly 1078A has a helmet 1071A and a bracket 1074A. The bracket 1074A defines a recess 1076A, which may be configured to receive a part of the attachment member 108A of the flashlight 100 in FIG. 1, and the bracket 1074A may be configured to assist in attaching the attachment member 108A to the helmet 1071A. The helmet 1071A has a front portion 1072A, an occipital portion 1072B, a first side 1072C, and a second side (not shown) opposite to the first side 1072C. The first side 1072C and the second side extend between the front portion 1072A and the occipital portion 1072B.

[0078] The helmet assembly 1078B has a helmet 1071B and a bracket 1074B. The bracket 1074B defines a recess 1076B, which may be configured to receive a part of the attachment member 108A of the flashlight 100 in FIG. 1, and the bracket 1074B may be configured to assist in attaching the attachment member 108A to the helmet 1071B. The helmet 1071B has a front portion 1072A’, an occipital portion 1072B’, a first side (not shown), and a second side 1072D’ opposite to the first side. The first side and the second side 1072D’ extend between the front portion 1072A’ and the occipital portion 1072B’.

[0079] In some embodiments, only one attachment bracket may be provided on the helmet. However, in other embodiments, multiple attachment brackets may be provided on the helmet. For example, one attachment bracket may be located on the first side 1072C of the helmet 1071A, while another attachment bracket may be located on the opposite side of the helmet 1071A, thereby allowing the flashlight to be attached to either side of the helmet 1071A. In some embodiments, the attachment brackets may also be provided at other positions on the helmet.

[0080] In some embodiments, the user may selectively mount one or more attachment brackets at desired positions on the helmet. For example, the attachment brackets may be mounted on the helmet by using one or more fasteners. These fasteners may include screws, nuts, bolts, adhesives, snaps configured to form a snap-fit engagement with a portion of the helmet, etc.

[0081] Figure 10B Helmet assemblies 1078A, 1078B are shown, in which the flashlight 1000 is attached to the helmets 1071A, 1071B using attachment brackets. The flashlight 1000 includes a body 1002, an indicator ring 1004, and a head 1006. These features and other features of the flashlight 1000 may be similar and / or identical to the corresponding features of the flashlight 100 described above.

[0082] In the helmet assembly 1078A, the flashlight 1000 is attached to the helmet 1071A, where the flashlight 1000 is located on the first side 1072C of the helmet 1071A. The flashlight 1000 is oriented such that the first light 1020 on the head 1006 points along the axis A1', where the first light 1020 points in the forward or front direction relative to the helmet 1071A and away from the rear head 1072B of the helmet 1071A. Additionally, the head 1006 is attached to the flashlight 1000 at a first position. When the head 1006 is in this first position, the second light 1022 is oriented downward along the axis D1'. The head 1006 may be selectively attached to the body 1002 such that when the attachment feature is attached to the first side 1072C or the second side of the helmet 1071A, the first light faces the forward direction, while the second light faces the downward direction.

[0083] In the helmet assembly 1078B, the flashlight 1000 is attached to the helmet 1071B, where the flashlight 1000 is located on the second side 1072D' of the helmet 1071B. The flashlight 1000 is oriented such that the first light 1020 on the head 1006 points along axis A1', where the first light 1020 points in the forward direction relative to the helmet 1071B and away from the rear head 1072B' of the helmet 1071B. Additionally, the head 1006 is attached to the flashlight 1000 at a second position, which is different from the first position of the head 1006 in the helmet assembly 1078A. When the head 1006 is in the second position, the second light 1022 is oriented downward along axis D2'. The head 1006 can be selectively attached to the body 1002 such that when the attachment feature is attached to the first side of the helmet 1071B or the second side 1072D' of the helmet 1071B, the first light faces the forward direction while the second light faces the downward direction.

[0084] By allowing the head 1006 to be selectively attached at the first position and / or the second position, the second light 1022 can be oriented generally in the downward direction regardless of which side of the helmet the flashlight is attached to. If the head 1006 cannot be selectively attached, when the flashlight 1000 is in the first position as shown in the helmet assembly 1078A, the light at the second light 1022 can be emitted downward, but when the flashlight 1000 is in the second position as shown in the helmet assembly 1078B, the light at the second light 1022 will be emitted upward. Alternatively, when the flashlight 1000 is in the second position as shown in the helmet assembly 1078B, the light at the second light 1022 can be emitted downward, but when the flashlight 1000 is in the first position as shown in the helmet assembly 1078A, the light at the second light 1022 will be emitted upward.

[0085] A method of using the flashlight is also contemplated. Figure 11 An example method 1100 for using a flashlight (such as one of the flashlights 100, 1000 described above) is shown. In operation 1102, a flashlight is provided. The flashlight includes a body, and the body defines a longitudinal axis. The flashlight further includes a head that is selectively attachable to the body. The head includes a first light that defines a first axis parallel to the longitudinal axis and a second light that defines a second axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0086] In operation 1104, the head of the flashlight is attached to the body of the flashlight at a first position. In this first position, the second light faces a first direction relative to the body. For example, the attachment of the flashlight head to the flashlight body can be accomplished using the fitting including the concave member 124A and the convex member 124B described above. When the head is in this first position, the flashlight can be used for a period of time, or when the head is in this first position, the flashlight may not be used at all. When the head is in this first position, the flashlight can be attached to a helmet such that the second light 122 (seeFigure 1A )Point generally downward.

[0087] In operation 1106, the head of the flashlight can be detached from the body of the flashlight. The detachment of the head of the flashlight from the body of the flashlight can be accomplished in the manner described above with reference to Figures 1A-1B and 4A - 4C. In other embodiments, depending on the method by which the head of the flashlight is releasably coupled to the body, the head may not be detached from the body, but rather the head may be rotatable from a first position to a second position in a direction.

[0088] In operation 1108, the head can be repositioned to the body in the second position. In this second position, the second light faces a second direction relative to the body, and this second direction is opposite to the first direction. The attachment of the head of the flashlight to the body of the flashlight can be accomplished using the alignment members 124A and the fitting 124B as described herein. When the head is in this second position, the flashlight can be used for a period of time, or when the head is in this second position, the flashlight may not be used at all.

[0089] In operation 1110, the flashlight can be attached to a helmet. This attachment can occur when the head of the flashlight is in the second position, such that the second light 122 (see Figure 1A )Points generally downward.

[0090] Method 1100 is provided only as an example, and method 1100 can be modified in various ways. Additional operations can be added to method 1100. For example, when the head of the flashlight is in the first position, the flashlight can be attached to a helmet. Certain operations can also be omitted from method 1100. For example, in some embodiments, operation 1106 can be omitted, and the head can simply be repositioned to the second position without detaching the head of the flashlight from the body. Additionally, the order of operations of method 1100 can be changed, and certain operations of method 1100 can be performed simultaneously.

[0091] According to various embodiments, the flashlights described herein can be used in various hazardous locations, such as but not limited to explosive gas environments. For example, the flashlights according to embodiments of the present invention can comply with the ATEX Directive 2014 / 34 / EU and other standards, and are intrinsically safe for certain ATEX temperature classes (including at least T1, T2, T3, and T4). These temperature classes include gases with auto - ignition temperatures greater than or equal to 450 °C, 300 °C, 200 °C, and 135 °C, respectively. Thus, in other words, during use at an ambient temperature from - 20 to 40 °C, the maximum surface temperature of the flashlights described herein (including their circuits and power sources) can be less than or equal to 134 °C. This ensures that they can be safely used in an environment containing gases with an auto - ignition temperature higher than this maximum surface temperature. This can be tested, for example, for power sources such as batteries through an external short - circuit test simulating incorrect or improper battery use.

[0092] In this regard, flashlight embodiments in the present disclosure may be provided with or include a power supply assembly configured to remove or dissipate heat generated during use of the flashlight. Using such a power supply assembly enables the flashlights described herein to be powered by power sources (such as batteries) that would otherwise be unqualified for use in certain hazardous environments. For example, a given battery cell may have a surface temperature reaching or exceeding 135°C during an external short circuit test, but when used as part of the power supply assembly described herein, its maximum surface temperature may be below 135°C during the same test because one or more components of the power supply assembly can remove or dissipate sufficient heat. Among other things, this makes more battery cells from more manufacturers available for embodiments of the present invention that require certification for use in certain hazardous environments.

[0093] Reference will now be made to Figures 12A-20 describe several example embodiments, where the same reference numerals are used to denote components identical to those of the flashlight 100 described above Figures 1A-6 in. Although example embodiments will be described with reference to the flashlight 100 below, it should be understood that the power supply assembly described herein can be used in any flashlight that needs to be used in hazardous locations and / or explosive environments. First, reference is made to Figures 12A-13 , which shows a side and bottom perspective view of the power supply assembly 200. Figures 14-15 A exploded view of the flashlight 100 including the power supply assembly 200 is shown, Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of the flashlight 100 taken along a line passing through the power supply assembly 200.

[0094] In the various embodiments described above, the flashlight 100 includes a carriage 158 and a third substrate 152 that support a power supply 154, such as but not limited to a battery. For example, the power supply 154 may be held in place relative to the third substrate 152 by one or more clamps 152A. The switch assembly 116A is operatively coupled to these components and can be actuated to turn the flashlight 100 on and off, etc.

[0095] In Figures 12A-16In the illustrated embodiment, the power supply assembly 200 includes a power supply 154 and a heat sink 202. The heat sink 202 includes a pair of panels 204, 206 that are disposed on opposite sides of the power supply 154. The panels 204, 206 can be directly attached to the power supply 154 using a suitable adhesive material (such as thermal paste). The panels 204, 206 in this embodiment can be extrusions formed from a suitable thermally conductive metallic material (such as aluminum). As shown, the panels 204, 206 in this embodiment define an inner surface 208, and the shape of the inner surface 208 can be complementary to the side surface of the power supply 154 to which it is to be attached (e.g., it can define a suitable curved shape in the case where the cross-section of the power supply 154 is circular). Additionally, in Figure 12A the embodiment, the panels 204, 206 include a plurality of fins 210 defined on their outer surfaces. However, the fins 210 are not required in all embodiments, such as as Figure 12B and Figures 14-15 shown. In Figure 12B the embodiment, for example, the panels 204, 206 can be made of solid aluminum and have substantially flat side surfaces 211.

[0096] According to another embodiment, Figure 17 is a front elevation view of the power supply assembly 250. Figures 18-19 is an exploded view of the flashlight 100 including the power supply assembly 250. Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view of the flashlight 100 taken along a line passing through the power supply assembly 250.

[0097] Generally, the power supply assembly 250 includes a power supply 154 and a heat sink 252. Here, the heat sink 252 is disposed on all or part of the outer surface 254 of the power supply 154. One or more such heat sinks preferably surround at least a substantial portion of the power supply 154 and thus can have an internal shape complementary to the external shape of the power supply 154. As shown, in this embodiment, the heat sink 252 is formed as an open cylinder, such as a sleeve or a tube or a shroud, since the outer surface 254 of the power supply 154 is cylindrical in this example, but this is not required. In various embodiments, the heat sink 252 can be of any shape suitable for removing sufficient heat from the power supply 154 to allow the use of the power supply 154 and the flashlight 100 in the desired hazardous environment. In various embodiments, the heat sink 252 can also include fins, for example, similar to the fins shown above Figure 12A and 13 .

[0098] In addition, in various embodiments, more than one such heat sink 252 may be provided on different respective portions of the power supply 154, and / or one or more heat sinks 252 may be provided on more than one power supply 154 (e.g., where they are combined together as a pack). At least one heat sink 252 may extend along the longitudinal axis 256 of the power supply(s) 154 (and may be disposed around or coaxial therewith in some cases). The heat sink(s) 252 may cover the entire length dimension of the power supply(s) 154, or as shown, its length may be shorter than the length dimension of the power supply(s) 154. In some embodiments, the heat sink(s) 252 may also extend onto a portion of the base or top surface of the power supply(s) 154. One of ordinary skill in the art may select a suitable size for the heat sink(s) 252 for a particular application and the power supply(s) 154.

[0099] In various examples where the power supply 154 is a battery, the power supply 154 may be, for example, lithium-ion battery cells of sizes 18650 or 21700 respectively, with a nominal capacity between about 2500 mAh and 3000 mAh or between about 4000 mAh and 5000 mAh. The power supply 154 may also include or be surrounded by shrink wrap material, and in some embodiments, the heat sink(s) 252 may be disposed outside of such shrink wrap material.

[0100] In the illustrated embodiment, the heat sink 252 is formed of a suitable thermally conductive metal material (e.g., aluminum). The heat sink 252 may be formed by any suitable process, such as stamping, casting, or extrusion. In one embodiment, the heat sink 252 is press fit onto the outer surface 254, but this is not required. In some cases, due to tolerances in the battery cell diameter, there may be an air gap (e.g., from about 0.1 to about 0.5 mm) between the outer surface 254 and the heat sink 252. In other embodiments, the heat sink 252 may be welded to the power supply 154 or attached to the power supply 154 in other ways suitable for facilitating heat removal from the power supply 154. In some embodiments, a thermal paste may be used in the power supply assembly 250, e.g., between the heat sink 252 and the outer surface 254 and / or outside of the heat sink 252. The power supply assembly 250 or its components do not need to be potted in a heat dissipating resin, but may be potted in some embodiments.

[0101] In various embodiments, the wall portion of the heat sink 252 may have a thickness between about 0.5 mm and 2 mm, and in some embodiments, the wall portion of the heat sink 252 may have a thickness of 1 mm. In fact, various embodiments of the power supply assembly 250 may have dimensions of a larger-sized power supply 154 (e.g., the size of the battery may effectively increase from 18650 to 19650 or 20650, depending on the thickness of the heat sink(s) 252). Accordingly, it may be necessary to modify the dimensions and / or internal configuration or assembly of the flashlight 100 to accommodate the larger-sized power supply 154.

[0102] The present disclosure also discloses the following items (embodiments):

[0103] 1. A flashlight, the flashlight comprising:

[0104] A body that defines a longitudinal axis;

[0105] A head that is releasably attached to the body, the head including a front light that defines a first axis parallel to the longitudinal axis; and a downlight that defines a second axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis;

[0106] A power supply assembly that includes at least one battery and at least one heat sink, the at least one heat sink being coupled to an outer surface of the at least one battery to dissipate heat from the outer surface of the at least one battery during use of the flashlight, wherein the at least one heat sink includes at least one aluminum sleeve.

[0107] 2. The flashlight according to item 1, wherein the flashlight further includes an indicator ring that is in communication with the power supply assembly and is configured to indicate a charge state of the at least one battery.

[0108] 3. The flashlight according to item 1, wherein the head is selectively attachable to the body in either a first position or a second position, wherein in the first position, the downlight faces a first direction relative to the body, and in the second position, the downlight faces a second direction relative to the body, the second direction being opposite to the first direction.

[0109] 4. The flashlight according to item 3, wherein the flashlight includes an attachment feature disposed on a side of the body and facing a direction different from the front light and the downlight.

[0110] 5. The flashlight according to item 1, wherein the at least one aluminum sleeve is press-fitted onto the battery.

[0111] 6. The flashlight according to item 1, wherein the at least one aluminum sleeve is formed by an integrally molded extruded aluminum piece.

[0112] 7. The flashlight according to item 1, wherein the flashlight further comprises a thermal paste layer disposed between the at least one aluminum sleeve and the outer surface of the battery.

[0113] 8. The flashlight according to item 1, wherein the front light is configured to operate as at least one of a floodlight or a spotlight.

[0114] 9. The flashlight according to item 1, wherein the head can be selectively attached to the body by a bayonet fitting.

[0115] 10. The flashlight according to item 1, wherein the maximum surface temperature of the power supply assembly during use is less than 135 °C.

[0116] 11. The flashlight according to item 1, wherein the at least one aluminum sleeve has a wall thickness between about 0.5 mm and 2 mm.

[0117] 12. A flashlight, the flashlight comprising:

[0118] A body;

[0119] A head, the head being releasably attached to the body and defining a proximal end and a distal end, the head including a first light facing a first direction and a second light facing a second direction, wherein the first direction and the second direction are perpendicular to each other; and

[0120] A power supply assembly, the power supply assembly being disposed in the body and being in electrical communication with the first light and the second light, wherein the power supply assembly includes at least one battery, and the at least one battery is disposed within a radiator formed of a thermally conductive metal material.

[0121] 13. The flashlight according to item 12, wherein the flashlight further comprises an indicator ring, the indicator ring being disposed at the proximal end of the head, and wherein the indicator ring can selectively emit light around its periphery in response to the charging level of the power supply.

[0122] 14. The flashlight according to item 12, wherein the radiator is formed as an open cylinder extending along the longitudinal axis of the at least one battery.

[0123] 15. The flashlight according to item 12, wherein the length dimension of the radiator is shorter than the length dimension of the at least one battery.

[0124] 16. A method of using a flashlight, the method comprising:

[0125] Providing a flashlight, the flashlight comprising:

[0126] A body defining a longitudinal axis;

[0127] A head selectively attachable to the body, the head including a first lamp defining a first axis parallel to the longitudinal axis and a second lamp defining a second axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis; and

[0128] A power supply assembly including at least one battery coupled to a heat sink;

[0129] Attaching the head to the body in a first position, wherein the second lamp faces a first direction relative to the body; and

[0130] Relocating the head relative to the body to a second position, wherein the second lamp faces a second direction relative to the body, the second direction being opposite to the first direction.

[0131] 17. The method according to item 16, wherein the heat sink includes a pair of panels disposed on opposite sides of the at least one battery.

[0132] 18. The method according to item 16, wherein at least one of the pair of panels includes a plurality of fins.

[0133] 19. The method according to item 16, wherein the heat sink includes a sleeve disposed above the at least one battery.

[0134] 20. The method according to item 16, wherein when the at least one battery is short-circuited, the maximum surface temperature of the power supply assembly is less than 135 °C.

[0135] 21. A flashlight comprising:

[0136] A body defining a longitudinal axis;

[0137] A head releasably attachable to the body, the head including a front lamp defining a first axis parallel to the longitudinal axis; and a downlight defining a second axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis; and

[0138] An attachment feature disposed on a side of the body;

[0139] Wherein the head is selectively attachable to the body in either a first position or a second position, wherein in the first position, the downlight faces a first direction relative to the body, and in the second position, the downlight faces a second direction relative to the body, the second direction being opposite to the first direction.

[0140] 22. The flashlight according to item 21, wherein the flashlight further includes a switch disposed at one end of the main body opposite to the head, and the switch can be actuated to cause at least one of the front light, the downlight, or the indicating ring to emit light.

[0141] 23. A flashlight, the flashlight comprising:

[0142] A main body;

[0143] A head releasably attached to the main body and defining a proximal end and a distal end, the head including a first light facing a first direction and a second light facing a second direction, wherein the first direction and the second direction are perpendicular to each other;

[0144] An indicating ring disposed at the proximal end of the head; and

[0145] A power source disposed in the main body and electrically connected to the first light, the second light, and the indicating ring;

[0146] Wherein the indicating ring can selectively emit light around its periphery in response to the charging level of the power source.

[0147] 24. The flashlight according to item 23, wherein when the charging level of the power source is lower than a predetermined threshold, the indicating ring automatically lights up in red.

[0148] 25. The flashlight according to item 23, wherein the main body includes an attachment feature configured to be attached to a helmet.

[0149] 26. The flashlight according to item 25, wherein the helmet has a front portion, a rear head portion, and a first side and a second side extending between the front portion and the rear head portion, and wherein the head can be selectively attached to the main body such that when the attachment feature is attached to the first side of the helmet or the second side of the helmet, the first light faces the front direction and the second light faces the downward direction.

[0150] 27. A method of using a flashlight, the method comprising:

[0151] Providing a flashlight, the flashlight comprising:

[0152] A main body defining a longitudinal axis; and

[0153] A head selectively attachable to the main body, the head including a first light defining a first axis parallel to the longitudinal axis and a second light defining a second axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis;

[0154] Attach the head to the body at a first position, wherein the second lamp faces a first direction relative to the body; and

[0155] Reposition the head relative to the body at a second position, wherein the second lamp faces a second direction relative to the body, the second direction being opposite to the first direction.

[0156] 28. A flashlight, the flashlight comprising:

[0157] A body that defines a longitudinal axis; and

[0158] A head that is coupled to the body by a two-position bayonet fitting, the head including a first lamp that defines a first axis parallel to the longitudinal axis and a second lamp that defines a second axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis;

[0159] Wherein, when the head is assembled to the body in a first orientation by the two-position bayonet fitting, the second lamp faces a first direction, and when the head is assembled to the body in a second orientation by the two-position bayonet fitting, the second lamp faces a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0160] 29. The flashlight according to item 28, wherein the flashlight further includes an indicator light disposed between the head and the body and forming a part of the outer surface of the flashlight.

[0161] 30. The flashlight according to item 29, wherein the indicator light at least partially surrounds the two-position bayonet fitting.

[0162] 31. The flashlight according to item 29, wherein the indicator light is capable of emitting light in a first color corresponding to a first amount of remaining operating time of the first lamp, and wherein the indicator light is capable of emitting light in a second color corresponding to a second, lower amount of remaining operating time of the first lamp.

[0163] Those skilled in the art will think of many modifications and other embodiments described herein after benefiting from the above description and the teachings presented in the related drawings. Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiments are not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and the modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention. In addition, although the above description and the related drawings describe the example embodiments in the context of certain example combinations of elements and / or functions, it should be understood that alternative embodiments may provide different combinations of elements and / or functions without departing from the scope of the present invention. In this regard, for example, combinations of different elements and / or functions other than those explicitly described above are also contemplated within the scope of the present invention. Although specific terms are used herein, they are used only in a general and descriptive sense and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims

1. A flashlight, characterized in that, The flashlight includes: a body that defines a longitudinal axis; a head that is releasably attached to the body, the head including a front light that defines a first axis parallel to the longitudinal axis; and a downlight that defines a second axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis; and an attachment feature provided on a side surface of the body; wherein the head is selectively attachable to the body in either a first position or a second position, wherein in the first position, the downlight faces a first direction relative to the body, and in the second position, the downlight faces a second direction relative to the body, the second direction being opposite to the first direction.

2. The flashlight according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flashlight further includes an indicator ring.

3. The flashlight according to claim 2, characterized in that, When the head is attached to the body, the indicator ring is disposed between the head and the body.

4. The flashlight according to claim 2, characterized in that, The indicator ring can be selectively illuminated by a light source provided within the head.

5. The flashlight according to claim 4, characterized in that, The flashlight further includes a power source, wherein when the charge level of the power source exceeds a predetermined threshold, the indicator ring emits light of a first color, and when the charge level of the power source is below the predetermined threshold, the indicator ring emits light of a second color.

6. The flashlight according to claim 1, wherein, The attachment feature can engage with a bracket on a helmet.

7. The flashlight according to claim 6, characterized in that, The helmet has a front portion, a rear head portion, a first side surface and a second side surface extending between the front portion and the rear head portion, wherein in the case where the head is in the first position, the flashlight can be attached to the first side surface, and in the case where the head is in the second position, the flashlight can be attached to the second side surface.

8. The flashlight according to claim 1, characterized in that, The front light is configured to operate as at least one of a floodlight or a spotlight.

9. The flashlight according to claim 1, wherein The head is selectively attachable to the body by a bayonet fitting.

10. The flashlight according to claim 9, characterized in that, The head includes a plurality of pins, and the body includes a plurality of electrical contacts, and wherein when the head is in the first position or the second position, the plurality of pins engage the plurality of electrical contacts.

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