Portable neck lamp

By adopting a structure combining a rotation axis and an elastic pad in a portable neck lamp, the problem of inconvenient position adjustment of the existing portable neck lamp light source is solved, flexible rotation and stable support of the lamp head is realized, and hands-free lighting is provided in multiple directions. Working environment under low light conditions.

CN222316849UActive Publication Date: 2025-01-07MILWAUKEE ELECTRIC TOOL CORP
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202420698513.3
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2023-04-07
Filing Date
2024-04-07
Publication Date
2025-01-07
Estimated Expiration
2034-04-07

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

When used in low-light conditions, it is difficult to flexibly adjust the light source position, which limits the lighting effect of the working area and is inconvenient for both hands to operate.

Method used

A portable neck lamp is designed, adopting a structure that combines an arm opening extending the axis of rotation and an elastic pad, allowing the lamp head to rotate and move in multiple positions, applying friction through the elastic pad to support the lamp head, realizing the lamp head around the axis of rotation Continuous movement, providing hands-free lighting in multi-direction.

Benefits of technology

It realizes flexible adjustment and stable support of the lamp head, provides multi-directional hands-free lighting, and is suitable for construction workers and other working environments under low-light conditions, improving work efficiency and safety.

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Abstract

A portable neck light is disclosed that includes a neck strap including an arm extending to a distal end, the distal end defining an axis of rotation. A lamp cap is coupled to the distal end of the arm. A shaft is coupled to the lamp cap and the neckband to allow rotation of the lamp cap relative to the neckband about the axis of rotation within a plane of rotation. The lamp cap is supported for continuous movement within a range of angles of motion about the axis of rotation.
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Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 457,965, filed on April 7, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein. Technical Field

[0003] The utility model relates to a portable lamp, and more particularly to a lamp configured to be hung on the neck of a user to illuminate a work area. Background Art

[0004] Construction workers, mechanics, plumbers, etc. can use neck lights to see in low-light conditions while keeping their hands free. Utility Model Content

[0005] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a portable neck lamp comprising: a neck strap having an arm opening extending along a rotation axis; a lamp head including a shell opening aligned with the arm opening; and a shaft positioned within the arm opening and the shell opening and extending along the rotation axis. The shaft includes a first end coupled to the lamp head and a second end coupled to the neck strap. An elastic pad is coupled to the neck strap between the lamp head and the neck strap and disposed adjacent to the shaft. The elastic pad engages the shaft to apply a friction force to the shaft to resist rotation of the shaft relative to the elastic pad and to support the lamp head relative to the neck strap in a plurality of positions.

[0006] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a portable neck light comprising a neckband having an arm extending to a distal end, the distal end defining a rotation axis. A lamp head is coupled to the distal end of the arm. An axle is coupled to the lamp head and the neckband to allow the lamp head to rotate relative to the neckband about the rotation axis in a rotation plane. The lamp head is supported to continuously move within a range of angular motion about the rotation axis.

[0007] On the other hand, the present disclosure provides a portable neck lamp, which includes a neckband, a first lamp head and a second lamp head. The neckband includes a battery housing, a first arm extending from a first end of the battery housing, and a second arm extending from a second end of the battery housing. The first lamp head is connected to the first arm through a first joint to rotate about a first rotation axis. The first lamp head can continuously rotate about the first rotation axis relative to the first arm within a first range of motion. The first joint includes: a first shaft, which is connected to the first lamp head and the first arm; and a first elastic pad, which surrounds the first shaft and is configured to apply friction to the first shaft to maintain the position of the first lamp head within the first range of motion relative to the first arm. The second lamp head is connected to the second arm through a second joint to rotate about the second rotation axis. The second lamp head can continuously rotate about the second rotation axis relative to the second arm within a second range of motion. The second joint includes: a second shaft, which is connected to the second lamp head and the second arm; and a second elastic pad, which surrounds the second shaft and is configured to apply friction to the second shaft to maintain the position of the second lamp head within the second range of motion relative to the second arm. The first arm and the second arm may be bent to change the distance between the first arm and the second arm.

[0008] Other features and aspects of the invention will become apparent by consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1 is a front perspective view of a portable neck lamp according to one embodiment, the portable neck lamp comprising a neckband, a first lamp head and a second lamp head.

[0010] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Rear perspective view of a portable neck light.

[0011] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 An exploded view of a connection between a first lamp head and a neck strap of a portable neck lamp.

[0012] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 Side view of the arm of the neck strap.

[0013] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 A perspective view of the rotation axis of the joint.

[0014] Figure 6 yes Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the housing and the rotation axis of the joint of the first lamp cap.

[0015] Figure 7 yes Figure 3 Cross-sectional view of the assembled joint.

[0016] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the joint between the lamp head and the neck strap of a portable neck lamp.

[0017] Before explaining any embodiment of the utility model in detail, it should be understood that the application of the utility model is not limited to the construction details and component arrangements set forth in the following description or shown in the accompanying drawings. The utility model can have other embodiments and can be practiced or executed in a variety of different ways. In addition, it should be understood that the words and terms used herein are for descriptive purposes and should not be considered as limiting. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Figures 1 to 7 A portable neck lamp 10 is shown according to one embodiment. The neck lamp 10 shown can be carried by a user and placed on the user's neck, thereby allowing hands-free lighting of a work area.

[0019] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the neck light 10 includes a generally U-shaped neckband 14, a first light assembly 26 coupled to a first end 18 of the neckband 14, and a second light assembly 30 coupled to a second end 22 of the neckband 14. The neckband 14 includes a battery housing 34 positioned between the first end 18 and the second end 22 (also referred to as the first band end 18 and the second band end 22, respectively). The battery housing 34 extends between the first housing end 38 and the second housing end 42. The neckband 14 further includes a first arm 46 coupled to the first housing end 38 of the battery housing 34 and a second arm 50 coupled to the second housing end 42 of the battery housing 34, thereby forming a U-shape. The battery housing 34 includes a housing 54 having a front side 58 (also referred to herein as the inner side 58) and a rear side 62 (also referred to herein as the outer side 62). The front side 58 includes an inner housing surface 66.

[0020] Specific reference Figure 2 The battery housing 34 is configured to receive a battery (not shown). In some embodiments, the battery is removably received in the battery housing 34. The battery may include one or more standard single cell batteries (e.g., A, AA, or AAA batteries, 9 volt batteries, etc.) that are replaceable. In some embodiments, the battery may be rechargeable. In some embodiments, the battery may be a power tool battery pack, such as the one sold by Milwaukee Tool. USB battery. Finally, in some embodiments, the battery housing 34 can include an internal battery that is rechargeable within the battery housing 34. In the illustrated embodiment, the battery housing 34 includes a cover 70 hingedly coupled to the rear side 62 of the housing 54. The cover 70 is movable between a closed position (shown) and an open position (not shown) to allow access to the interior of the housing 54. In some embodiments, the cover 70 provides access to the battery, such as for removing or charging the battery. In the illustrated embodiment, the battery housing 34 additionally includes a connection port 74 ( Figure 1 ). The connection port 74 can be electrically connected to the battery, for example, for powering and recharging the battery. The connection port 74 can include a USB port or other suitable port.

[0021] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the first arm 46 is connected to the front side 58 of the housing 54 of the battery housing 34 adjacent to the first housing end 38, and the second arm 50 is connected to the front side 58 of the housing 54 adjacent to the second housing end 42. In the illustrated embodiment, the first arm 46 and the second arm 50 are coupled to the housing 54 on either side of the inner housing surface 66. The neck lamp 10 generally spans the axis of symmetry A. S Symmetrical, such that unless otherwise stated, the first side is a mirror image of its second side. Throughout the description of the neck lamp 10, the description focuses on the details of the first side including the first arm 46 and the first lamp assembly 26. Unless otherwise stated, it can be assumed that the details of the second side including the second arm 50 and the second lamp assembly 30 are the same as the first side, but are mirror images.

[0022] Continue to refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , each of the first arm 46 and the second arm 50 extends to a distal end 82 and includes an inner arm surface 86. In the illustrated embodiment, the distal end 82 of the first arm 46 forms the first end 18 of the neckband 14, and the distal end 82 of the second arm 50 forms the second end 22 of the neckband 14. When the first arm 46 and the second arm 50 are coupled to the battery housing 34, the inner arm surface 86 and the inner housing surface 66 cooperate to form an inner contour 90. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner contour 90 is a continuous curve. The first lamp assembly 26 (also referred to herein as the first lamp head 26) is pivotally coupled to the distal end 82 of the first arm 46. The second lamp assembly 30 (also referred to herein as the second lamp head 30) is similarly pivotally coupled to the distal end 82 of the second arm 50. The first arm 46 and the second arm 50 are both formed of an elastic material and are capable of being in a static position ( Figure 1 ) and a bent position. In the illustrated embodiment, in the static position, the first arm 46 and the second arm 50 are relative to the symmetry axis A. SThe neckband 14 is slightly angled inwardly and downwardly from the battery housing 34. The first end 18 of the neckband 14 and the second end 22 of the neckband 14 are separated by a distance D. When a force is applied, the first arm 46 and the second arm 50 can be deflected away from the rest position, thereby changing the distance D between the first end 18 and the second end 22. In some embodiments, the first arm 46 and the second arm 50 can be driven by the elasticity of the material of the neckband 14 to automatically return to the rest position. In other embodiments, another force can be applied to return the first arm 46 and the second arm 50 to the rest position. The first arm 46 and the second arm 50 can be relative to the symmetry axis A. S The movement varies by amount and can be in multiple directions. In some embodiments, the first arm 46 and the second arm 50 are positionable (ie, similar to wires) and can be formed into a specific shape and configuration by a user.

[0023] like Figure 3 As shown, the first lamp head 26 is coupled to the distal end 82 of the first arm 46 via a joint 98. The joint 98 supports the first lamp head 26 to move relative to the first arm 46 within a range of motion. In the illustrated embodiment, the first lamp head 26 is coupled to the first arm 46 to rotate in the plane P ( Figure 7 ) around the rotation axis A R In the illustrated embodiment, the first lamp head 26 can be continuously moved to a plurality of positions within the range of motion (as opposed to being limited to a number of discrete positions within the range of motion). In other words, the first lamp head 26 can be infinitely adjustable relative to the first arm 46 within the range of motion. For example, the first lamp head 26 can be moved about the axis A. R The first lamp head 26 is pivotable relative to the first arm 46 within a range of motion of approximately 180 degrees. In other embodiments, the first lamp head 26 may be pivotable through a greater or lesser range (e.g., 90 degrees, 210 degrees, 270 degrees, 360 degrees, 450 degrees, etc.). In the illustrated embodiment, the first lamp head 26 is constrained to pivot only within the rotation plane P about the rotation axis A. R That is, the first lamp head 26 can only move about one degree of freedom (eg, rotation).

[0024] The first lamp head 26 includes a shell housing 102 defining an interior cavity 106. A lamp module 110 is positioned within the interior cavity 106. A head cover 114 is coupled to the shell housing 102 to enclose the lamp module 110 within the interior cavity 106. The lamp module 110 may include a variety of mechanical and electronic components for producing a light output, including lighting elements, lenses, reflectors, etc. In some embodiments, the lighting element includes one or more LEDs that emit light. A gasket 118 may be positioned between the head cover 114 and the shell housing 102 to prevent moisture and other debris from entering the interior cavity 106.

[0025] Reference Figure 4, the first arm 46 includes a connecting end 126 opposite the distal end 82. The connecting end 126 includes an engagement feature for coupling to the battery housing 34. In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement feature includes a shaped hook that snaps into a corresponding opening on the battery housing 34. In other embodiments, the first arm 46 can be coupled to the battery housing 34 in other ways. The first arm 46 includes a wider portion 130 adjacent the distal end 82. When the first arm 46 extends toward the distal end 82, the wider portion 130 is outward (i.e., away from the symmetry axis A). S ) is tapered. A plate 134 extends from the wider portion 130. The plate 134 includes a R Extended arm opening 138 ( Figure 3 ). The plate 134 includes a set of posts 142 adjacent the arm opening 138, the set of posts extending outwardly from the outer surface of the plate 134. In the illustrated embodiment, the set of posts 142 are generally cylindrical and are positioned circumferentially around the arm opening 138. In other embodiments, the posts 142 may be otherwise shaped or positioned on the plate 134. The plate 134 of the first arm 46 further includes a set of connecting features 158 coupled to the inner surface of the plate 134, opposite the set of posts 142. The set of connecting features 158 are coupled to the shaft cover 162 ( Figure 3 ). In the illustrated embodiment, the set of connection features 158 includes an opening configured to receive a snap cam positioned on the shaft cover 162. In other embodiments, other methods of coupling the shaft cover 162 to the plate 134 of the first arm 46 may be implemented.

[0026] Return to Figure 3 , the joint 98 includes a resilient pad 146 coupled to the plate 134 of the neckband 14. The resilient pad 146 can be made of a rubber or elastomeric material. In the illustrated embodiment, the resilient pad 146 is an annular pad having a central pad opening 150 with a contact surface 151 on the inner edge of the central pad opening. When assembled, the contact surface 151 is disposed adjacent to the arm opening 138. In other embodiments, the resilient pad 146 may include one or more smaller pads disposed on the plate 134 and having a contact surface 151 adjacent to the arm opening 138. The central pad opening 150 includes an inner diameter 152. In the illustrated embodiment, the resilient pad 146 is coupled to the plate 134 via a set of peripheral openings 154. The peripheral openings 154 correspond to the set of posts 142 and are shaped and arranged relative to the central pad opening 150 in a manner corresponding to the arrangement of the set of posts 142 around the arm opening 138. Thus, the set of posts 142 and peripheral openings 154 act as alignment features to align the resilient pads 146 so that when assembled, the central pad opening 150 is aligned with the arm opening 138 and the rotation axis A. RThe resilient pad 146 is prevented from rotating relative to the plate 134 and is therefore coupled to the plate 134 for common rotation therewith. In some embodiments, the peripheral opening 154 may be slightly smaller than the set of posts 142 so that the resilient pad 146 is press-fit onto the plate 134 and is secured against translation relative to the arm 46. In some embodiments, the resilient pad 146 is free to translate slightly along the posts 142 of the plate 134.

[0027] Continue to refer to Figure 3 The shell housing 102 includes a protrusion 170 extending backward in the opposite direction of the lighting direction. The protrusion 170 includes a protrusion 170 extending along the axis A. R The housing opening 174 extends through the projection 170. In the embodiment shown, the rotation axis A R In other words, the lighting direction is approximately in the rotation plane P ( Figure 7 ). In other embodiments, the protrusion 170 and the shell opening 174 can be configured in other ways. The shell opening 174 can include a counterbore 182 that removably receives a plug 186 to protect the connector 98. In some embodiments, the plug 186 can be selectively removed to access the connector 98 or electronic devices in the first lamp head 26.

[0028] Now turn to Figure 5 and Figure 6 The rotating shaft 178 is fixed to the shell housing 102 and positioned in the shell opening 174. The rotating shaft 178 (also referred to as the shaft 178 for short) includes a circumferential wall 190 that surrounds the rotation axis A. R The peripheral wall 190 extends to an outer diameter 191. The shaft 178 is along the rotation axis A R The shaft 178 extends between a first shaft end 194 and a second shaft end 198. The first shaft end 194 includes a coupling interface 200 that engages the shell housing 102 to couple the shaft 178 to the shell housing 102. The second shaft end 198 of the shaft 178 couples the shaft 178 to the neckband 14.

[0029] In the illustrated embodiment, the coupling interface 200 includes a plurality of R A pair of flanges 202 extend radially outward. Each flange 202 includes an outer edge 206 that includes a textured surface. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer edge 206 of each flange 202 is diagonally knurled and includes a textured surface relative to the axis A. R In other embodiments, other textures may be used. In still other embodiments, the outer edge 206 may alternatively have a R Constant non-circular outer contours, such as gear contours, tooth profiles, square contours, etc. Figure 6In the illustrated embodiment, the shaft 178 is permanently fixed to the shell housing 102 via a coupling interface 200. The shell housing 102 is formed of a plastic material that is injection molded to surround the shaft 178. The shaft 178 may be formed of brass or another bearing material. The pair of flanges 202 are separated by a gap 203 ( Figure 5 ). When the shell housing 102 is formed, the material fills the gap 203, thereby creating a ridge within the shell opening 174. The ridge is sandwiched between the flanges 202 to couple the shaft 178 to the first lamp cap 26 for translation in any direction, but particularly along the rotation axis A. R The injected material of the shell housing 102 is also molded over the outer edge 206 and engages the textured or non-circular surface thereof to create a reverse profile that resists rotation of the shell housing 102 relative to the flange 202 and couples the first lamp head 26 for rotation with the shaft 178. In other embodiments, the shell housing 102 may be formed separately from the shaft 178 but still include textured ribs opposite the flange 202 to engage the coupling interface 200 of the shaft 178 and rotatably secure the first lamp head 26 and the shaft 178. In other embodiments, the coupling interface 200 may be formed differently.

[0030] Figure 8 One exemplary embodiment shown includes an alternative joint 98' that includes a shaft 178' having a coupling interface 200' having a single flange 202' having a non-circular outer profile. The flange 202' engages the shell opening 174' of the shell housing 102'. The shell opening 174' may include a wall 301 having a recess 302 having a profile corresponding to the flange 202' to rotatably couple the shaft 178' to the lamp head 26'. The flange 202' is retained in the recess 302 by a clip 214' that engages the shaft 178'. In embodiments, such as Figure 8 In the illustrated embodiment, the shaft 178 ′ may be a removable component and may be assembled with the replacement fitting 98 ′. Still further configurations of the coupling interface may be used to rotatably couple the first lamp head 26 to the shaft 178 .

[0031] Steering Figure 7 To assemble the first lamp head 26 of the neck lamp 10, the lamp module 110 is positioned within the interior cavity 106. The gasket 118 is positioned around the end of the shell housing 102, and the head cover 114 is coupled to the end of the shell housing 102 to enclose and fluidly isolate the lamp module 110. The shaft 178 is coupled to the shell housing 102 of the first lamp head 26 (e.g., embedded during injection molding), so that the first shaft end 194 is positioned within the shell opening 174. The flange 202 engages the shell housing 102 to secure the rotational axis to rotate and translate with the shell housing 102. The first lamp head 26 is coupled to the neckband 14 by the assembly joint 98.

[0032] To assemble the joint, the resilient pad 146 is coupled to the plate 134 by fitting the peripheral opening 154 over the post 142 (which aligns the central pad opening 150 with the arm opening 138). The first lamp head 26 is positioned with the protrusion adjacent the plate 134 so that the shaft 178 is along the rotational axis A. R The first lamp cap 26 extends along the rotation axis A. R The second shaft end 198 is moved inwardly toward the plate 134 so that the second shaft end 198 extends through the central pad opening 150 and through the arm opening 138 and is disposed on the side of the plate 134 opposite the first lamp head 26. The coupling member 214 engages the second shaft end 198 of the shaft 178 to prevent the first lamp head 26 from being detached from the arm 46. In the illustrated embodiment, the coupling member 214 includes a groove 210 ( Figure 5 ) is engaged by a clip or snap ring. The snap ring 214 has a wider diameter than the arm opening 138, thereby preventing the shaft 178 (and thus the first lamp cap 26) from being moved along the axis A. R In other embodiments, other coupling methods may be used. The shaft 178 is thereby supported to move about the axis A within the arm opening 138. R Rotate.

[0033] When the shaft 178 is along the rotation axis A R When moving, the contact surface 151 of the resilient member 146 engages the outer surface of the circumferential wall 190 of the shaft 178. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner diameter 152 of the central pad opening 150 is smaller than the outer diameter 191 of the circumferential wall 190. Therefore, the contact surface 151 is radially displaced by the shaft 178. The natural elasticity of the resilient material (e.g., rubber) of the resilient pad 146 drives the contact surface 151 toward the axis A. R , and thus exerts a radial retaining force or friction force on the shaft 178. This force maintains the rotational position of the shaft 178 relative to the resilient pad 146 and, by extension, maintains the position of the first lamp cap 26 relative to the neckband 14. The shaft 178 is held not about the axis A RRotation unless the user overcomes the friction. In some embodiments, the force required to rotate the first lamp head 26 about the arm 46 is between 0.2 lbf and 0.6 lbf. In the embodiment shown, the contact surface 151 is annular and applies force evenly around the circumference of the shaft 178. In other embodiments, the force may be distributed differently. In some embodiments, lubrication may be applied to the contact surface 151 to ensure smooth rotation. When the holding force is overcome, the contact surface 151 of the resilient pad 146 slides along the outer surface of the peripheral wall 190 as the shaft 178 rotates relative to the plate 134. Thus, the joint 98 pivotally couples the first lamp head 26 for pivotal movement within a range of motion about the axis of rotation. Although not discussed herein, it should be understood that the joint 98 may include one or more stop members for limiting the range of motion and / or otherwise limiting the rotation of the shaft 178 within the range of motion. The joint 98 allows extremely smooth rotation of the first lamp head 26 relative to the arm 46, as well as precise positioning of the first lamp head 26 and associated light output.

[0034] When the first lamp cap 26 is coupled to the first arm 46, the outer edge of the shell housing 102 can be generally aligned with the outer side of the wider portion 130 on the arm 46, thereby creating an outer contour that protects the first lamp cap 26. The joint 98 supports the first lamp cap 26 on the arm 46 so that the first lamp cap 26 can be rotated about the axis A. R 174. The first lamp head 26 can be electrically coupled to a battery in the battery housing 34 via a connector 98. A wire 218 extends through a channel 192 (also referred to as a wire channel 192) of the shaft 178. The wire 218 can electrically connect the battery to the light module 110 for providing power for and controlling the light output. The wire 218 can rotate within the channel 192 to prevent damage to the wire. The shaft cover 162 is coupled to the connection feature 158 of the arm 46 to enclose the wire 218 and protect the connector 98. Similarly, a plug 186 can be assembled within the counterbore 182 of the housing opening 174 to enclose the wire 218 and protect the connector 98. In some embodiments, the plug 186 can be removed later.

[0035] As described above, the second lamp head 30 is similarly coupled to the second arm 50 via the connector 98. In some embodiments, the second lamp head 30 may additionally include control elements, such as a user control button 222 ( Figure 1 ). The second lamp head 30 may also include a PCB for controlling the lamp modules in the first lamp head 26 and the second lamp head 30. In some embodiments, the first lamp head 26 may also include a control element, or the control element and the electronic device may be located elsewhere on the neck lamp 10 (e.g., on the battery housing 34).

[0036] In order to operate the neck light 10, the neck light 10 can be positioned around the neck of the user. The distance D between the first end 18 and the second end 22 of the neckband 14 in the rest position can be less than the width of the user's neck. The user can apply a separation force to the first arm 46 and / or the second arm 50 to increase the distance D between the first end 18 and the second end 22 until the distance D is equal to or greater than the width of the user's neck and allows the neck to be received within the inner contour 90. The neck light 10 is positioned at the base (or nape) of the user's neck together with the battery housing 34. The battery housing 34 is often the heaviest part of the neck light, so it is advantageous to position the battery housing 34 closest to the user's neck to provide the most ergonomic support. Once the user's neck has been received within the inner contour 90 of the neckband 14, the first arm 46 and the second arm 50 can return to the rest position. In some embodiments, the first arm 46 and the second arm 50 are driven back by their inherent elasticity. In some embodiments, the user manually returns the first arm 46 and the second arm 50. Since the distance D of the rest position is smaller than the width of the user's neck, the possibility of the neck light 10 falling off the user's neck is reduced.

[0037] The light heads 26, 30 can be operated by pressing the user button 222 on the second light head 30. In the illustrated embodiment, the first light head 26 and the second light head 30 are each controlled by a single user button. For example, by subsequently pressing the button 222, the neck lamp 10 can switch between illuminating the first light head 26, the second light head 30, and illuminating both light heads 26, 30. Additionally or alternately, subsequent pressing of the button 222 can activate different modes (e.g., OFF, HI, LO, PULSE, RED, etc.) of the light heads 26, 30. In other embodiments, the first light head 26 and the second light head 30 can each include a dedicated button, and the light heads 26, 30 can be controlled separately. In addition, in some embodiments, the battery housing 34 itself can include user control components that operate alternatively or in conjunction with the user buttons on the light heads 26, 30.

[0038] Once the desired light output is achieved, the lamp head 26, 30 can be grasped by the user and pivoted to any of a plurality of positions within the range of motion. The lamp head 26, 30 can be supported for continuous movement within the range of motion, and the joint 98 can hold the lamp head 26, 30 in any position. When the user releases the lamp head 26, 30, the force of the resilient pad 146 on the shaft 178 holds the lamp head 26, 30 in place. Thus, the user can direct light toward a certain area or task and provide hands-free lighting.

[0039] Various features of the invention are set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A portable neck lamp, characterized in that: include: a neck strap including an arm opening extending along the axis of rotation; a lamp cap including a shell opening aligned with the arm opening; a shaft positioned within the arm opening and the housing opening and extending along the rotational axis, the shaft including a first end coupled to the lamp head and a second end coupled to the neckband; as well as A resilient pad is coupled to the neckband between the lamp head and the neckband and disposed adjacent the shaft, the resilient pad engaging the shaft to apply a friction force to the shaft to resist rotation of the shaft relative to the resilient pad and to support the lamp head relative to the neckband in a plurality of positions.

2. The portable neck lamp according to claim 1, characterized in that: The arm opening extends along the rotational axis through a plate extending from the distal end of the neckband.

3. The portable neck lamp according to claim 2, characterized in that: The resilient pad is annular and includes a pad opening, and wherein the resilient pad is coupled to the plate wherein the pad opening and the arm opening are aligned along the rotational axis.

4. The portable neck lamp according to claim 3, characterized in that: The plate includes a set of posts and the resilient pad includes a set of openings configured to engage the set of posts to secure the resilient pad to the plate for common rotation with the neckband.

5. The portable neck lamp according to claim 3, characterized in that: The shaft extends through the pad opening, and an inner surface of the pad opening engages an outer surface of the shaft to apply the friction force that maintains the rotational position of the lamp head relative to the neckband.

6. The portable neck lamp according to claim 1, characterized in that: Further included is a coupling member engaging the second end of the shaft to secure the shaft against translation relative to the neckband along the rotational axis.

7. The portable neck lamp according to claim 6, characterized in that: The coupling member includes a clip that engages a groove provided on the second end of the shaft, and wherein the clip is wider than the arm opening and retains the shaft relative to the neckband.

8. The portable neck lamp according to claim 1, characterized in that: The lamp head is plastic, the shaft is brass, and the elastic pad is rubber.

9. The portable neck lamp according to claim 1, characterized in that: The lamp head is capable of continuous rotation about the rotation axis between a plurality of positions within a range of motion.

10. The portable neck lamp according to claim 1, characterized in that: The neckband extends between a first band end and a second band end, wherein the light head is a first light head coupled to the first band end, and the portable neck light further includes a second light head coupled to the second band end of the neckband.

11. A portable neck lamp, characterized in that: include: a neckband including an arm extending to a distal end, the distal end defining an axis of rotation; a lamp cap coupled to the distal end of the arm; as well as a shaft coupled to the lamp head and the neckband to allow the lamp head to rotate relative to the neckband about the rotation axis in a rotational plane; Wherein, the lamp head is supported to continuously move within a range of movement angles around the rotation axis.

12. The portable neck lamp according to claim 11, characterized in that: The shaft extends between a first end coupled to the light head and a second end extending through an arm opening in the distal end of the neckband.

13. The portable neck lamp according to claim 12, characterized in that: The first end of the shaft includes a pair of flanges, and wherein a portion of the lamp head is positioned between the pair of flanges to prevent translation of the shaft relative to the lamp head.

14. The portable neck lamp according to claim 12, characterized in that: The first end includes an outer edge having a textured surface, and wherein the textured surface engages the lamp head to couple the shaft and the lamp head for common rotation.

15. The portable neck lamp according to claim 12, characterized in that: The second end of the shaft includes a groove, and the portable neck light further includes a snap ring that engages the groove to prevent the shaft from moving out of the arm opening.

16. The portable neck lamp according to claim 11, characterized in that: Further included is a resilient pad that engages the shaft to maintain the lamp head in multiple positions within the range of angles of motion.

17. The portable neck lamp according to claim 11, characterized in that: The light head includes an LED and the neckband includes a battery, and wherein the shaft includes a wire channel configured to allow wires to extend between the neckband and the light head.

18. The portable neck lamp according to claim 11, characterized in that: The motion angle range is greater than 360 degrees.

19. The portable neck lamp according to claim 11, characterized in that: The angular range of motion is less than 360 degrees.

20. A portable neck lamp, characterized in that: include: a neckband comprising a battery housing, a first arm extending from a first end of the battery housing, and a second arm extending from a second end of the battery housing; A first lamp head is connected to the first arm through a first joint to rotate about a first rotation axis, and the first lamp head can continuously rotate about the first rotation axis relative to the first arm within a first range of motion, and the first joint includes a first shaft coupled to the first lamp head and the first arm, and a first resilient pad surrounding the first shaft and configured to apply a friction force to the first shaft to maintain the position of the first lamp head within the first range of motion relative to the first arm; as well as a second lamp head connected to the second arm through a second joint so as to rotate about a second rotation axis, the second lamp head being capable of continuously rotating about the second rotation axis relative to the second arm within a second range of motion, the second joint comprising a second shaft coupled to the second lamp head and the second arm, and a second resilient pad surrounding the second shaft and configured to apply a friction force to the second shaft to maintain the position of the second lamp head within the second range of motion relative to the second arm; The first arm and the second arm are bendable to change the distance between the first arm and the second arm.