Flashlight with user-definable modes

Abstract

Flashlight with user-definable modes, comprising: an LED, an LED driver circuit, a control circuit and a second switch, wherein the LED driver circuit and the second switch are each electrically connected to the control circuit, and the LED driver circuit is electrically connected to the LED; and The second switch is configured to define at least one operating mode for the flashlight. When the second switch is in settings mode, the control circuit configures the flashlight into N user-defined modes, with each user-defined mode supporting M levels. The values ​​of N and M are both less than or equal to a preset upper limit for the flashlight.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This declaration relates to the filing and further development of Chinese patent application No. 2024110153295 dated July 26, 2024, “Flashlight with user-definable modes”. The content of this earlier application is hereby incorporated in its entirety by reference. TECHNICAL AREA

[0002] This statement concerns the field of flashlights, in particular flashlights with user-adjustable modes. STATE OF THE ART

[0003] Outdoor flashlights have always been essential equipment for outdoor enthusiasts. Continuous product improvements have significantly enhanced the performance of available flashlights in terms of durability, water resistance, and battery life compared to traditional models. However, the operating modes remain relatively static and monotonous, and users cannot customize the settings. For example, some flashlights only offer three brightness levels: high, medium, and low. For some users, this is too few, while for others it's too many, meaning their individual usage patterns are not catered for. SUMMARY

[0004] To overcome the weaknesses of the current state of the art, the present declaration provides for a flashlight with user-definable modes.

[0005] The plan is for a flashlight with user-definable modes, including: an LED, an LED driver circuit, a control circuit, a first switch and a second switch: wherein the LED driver circuit, the first switch and the second switch are electrically connected to the control circuit and the LED driver circuit is electrically connected to the LED, The second switch is configured to define at least one operating mode for the flashlight. When the second switch is in settings mode, the control circuit configures the flashlight into N user-defined modes, with each user-defined mode supporting M levels. The values ​​of N and M are both less than or equal to a preset upper limit for the flashlight.

[0006] Preferably, a first switch is also included, wherein the first switch is configured to define at least two operating states of the flashlight: an on state and an off state; and wherein the second switch is further configured to define a second operating mode of the flashlight: a lighting mode, If the second switch is in the on state in setting mode, and the first switch is triggered N times, the LED will blink N times to remind the user of the flashlight's current operating mode; and If the second switch is in the ON state in lighting mode, or if the second switch is in the OFF state in lighting mode, the flashlight will start emitting a frequency-converted pulse flash by pressing and holding the first switch for an initial preset time; and by tapping the first switch, the flashlight will turn off the frequency-converted pulse flash.

[0007] Preferably, the first switch is a two-stage push-button switch and the second switch is a rotary switch.

[0008] Preferably, the user-definable modes are used to limit the number of brightness levels of the flashlight, with the brightness of each brightness level corresponding to a preset value.

[0009] Preferably, the second switch is also configured to define a third operating mode for the flashlight: a lock mode, If the second switch is in the "on" position and locked, the flashlight cannot be switched to the "off" position. Holding the first switch down for a preset time prevents the flashlight from responding to the frequency-converted pulse flash. When the second switch exits the locked position, the lock is released. or, If the second switch is in the off position and locked, the flashlight cannot be switched to the on position. Holding the first switch down for a preset time prevents the flashlight from responding to the frequency-converted pulse flash. The lock is released when the second switch exits the locked position.

[0010] Preferably, the first and second switches are also configured to define the flashlight's factory settings. If the flashlight is not in settings mode, pressing and holding the first switch, moving the second switch into settings mode, and then holding the second preset time, returns it to factory settings.

[0011] Preferably, the flashlight includes the following: an end piece, an end piece connector, a first circuit board, a second circuit board, a wheel shaft, a gear and a rotary knob, wherein the end piece connector is provided above the end piece, the end piece connector is provided with a receiving space with an upwardly directed opening, the first circuit board is provided in the receiving space and the first switch is integrated into the first circuit board; the end piece is provided with a first cavity, a side wall of the end piece is provided with a second cavity, the second circuit board is provided in the first cavity, a through hole is provided in an upper wall of the first cavity, a leveling copper piece is provided on the second circuit board at the through hole, and a leveling spring and a leveling ball are in contact with each other in the second cavity; the gear shaft is connected to the gear and inserted into the through hole after being encased by a rotating spring sheet, the gear shaft is in contact with the leveling copper piece and an upper part of the gear rests against the end piece; the rotary knob is provided with a sleeve outside the end piece and the end piece connector, and an inner wall of the rotary knob is in contact with the gear or the leveling ball; and When the rotary knob is turned, the second switch is activated accordingly.

[0012] Preferably, a cover for the end-piece connection, which is connected to the end-piece connector, is additionally provided. The first switch is a two-stage push-button switch with a silicone cap on it.

[0013] Preferably, a key holder and a metal washer are provided between the two-stage key switch and the silicone cap. A waterproof ring is provided between the key holder and the end-connection cover.

[0014] Preferably, a flashlight housing is also provided, which is connected to an end piece. A negative spring is provided at the lower end of the second circuit board, the negative spring being configured for an electrical connection with the battery in the flashlight body. A locking piece is provided between the flashlight body and the end piece. An insulating pad is provided in the locking piece.

[0015] The flashlight with user-definable modes, as described in this statement, offers an operating procedure by which users can define multiple modes and adjust multiple levels within each mode, thereby enabling additional product functions. Simultaneously, the user-definable modes can be configured for various functions, including, but not limited to, the number of brightness levels of the flashlight, the duration of the frequency-converted pulse flash, etc., so that the flashlight can be adapted to the user's usage habits and various indoor and outdoor application scenarios. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. Figure 1 is a circuit diagram of a flashlight with user-definable modes according to the embodiment of the present declaration; Fig. 2 is a program logic diagram of user-defined operations in the embodiment of the present declaration; Fig. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a setting of stage combinations in the embodiment of the present declaration; Fig. Figure 4 is an exemplary diagram of a setting of stage combinations in the embodiment of the present declaration; Fig. Figure 5 is a flowchart of a factory state in the embodiment of the present declaration; Fig. Figure 6 is an exploded view of a flashlight with user-definable modes in the embodiment of the present declaration; Fig. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of a flashlight with user-definable modes in the embodiment of the present declaration; and Fig. Figure 8 is an oblique cross-sectional view of an end piece in the embodiment of the present declaration. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0016] To clarify and facilitate a better understanding of the technical problems, technical solutions, and positive effects that this declaration aims to address, the drawings and embodiments are combined below to describe this declaration in more detail. It is understood that the specific embodiments described herein serve solely to illustrate this declaration and are not intended to limit it.

[0017] The plan is for a flashlight with user-definable modes, as in Fig. Figures 1 to 8 are shown, including: an LED, an LED driver circuit, a control circuit, and a second switch. wherein the LED driver circuit and the second switch are electrically connected to the control circuit, the LED driver circuit is electrically connected to the LED and the second switch is configured to define at least one operating mode of the flashlight: a settings mode, When the second switch is in settings mode, the control circuit configures the flashlight into N user-definable modes, and each of the user-definable modes supports M levels; and the values ​​of N and M are both less than or equal to the flashlight's preset upper limit, with user-definable adjustment for the brightness of each level between the upper and lower limits supported in each of the user-definable modes. For example, in the Nth mode, the brightness L of each level can be user-defined.

[0018] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the maximum number of user-definable modes supported by the flashlight is set to 4 (i.e., N=4, with the preset upper limit determined by the factory settings), with each mode corresponding to a different number of levels A. In Mode 1, there is only one level A1 with a brightness of 3000 lumens. In Mode 2, there are two levels, A1 and A2, with 30 lumens and 1500 lumens, respectively. Similarly, Mode 4 has five levels (i.e., M=5, with the preset upper limit determined by the factory settings), ranging from A1 to A5 and covering a range from 30 to 3000 lumens. If the preset brightness of a level does not meet the user's needs, they can also set the brightness of that level themselves. For example, in Mode 1, level A1 is 3000 lumens.Should users not be satisfied with this, they can adjust the brightness themselves to any value between a minimum of 30 lumens and a maximum of 3000 lumens, e.g. to 1000 lumens.

[0019] With conventional flashlights, the user is required to press each setting sequentially from lowest to highest (assuming there are four brightness levels). If the user only wants the highest setting, they must press the button four times to reach the desired level. In this embodiment, after pressing the second button twice, the device switches to mode 2, which corresponds to levels A1 and A2. The user then only needs to press the button twice to reach the desired setting, significantly simplifying operation.

[0020] Furthermore, a first switch is included, configured to define at least two operating states of the flashlight: an on state and an off state; and the second switch is further configured to define a second operating mode of the flashlight: a lighting mode. When the second switch is in the on state in setting mode, and the first switch is triggered N times, the LED flashes N times to remind the user of the current operating mode of the flashlight. When the second switch is in the on state in lighting mode, or when the second switch is in the off state in lighting mode, pressing and holding the first switch for an initial preset time will cause the flashlight to emit a frequency-converted pulse flash; and tapping the first switch will turn off the frequency-converted pulse flash.

[0021] Specifically, this means: If the user needs to use five brightness levels, with the flashlight in the "on" state and the second switch in setting mode, and the user presses the first switch four times in the meantime, the LED will blink four times. This indicates to the user that they are setting a custom mode. When the user switches the second switch to the "on" mode, the five-level setting is complete. During use, if the second switch is in "on" mode, the user can cycle through the five brightness levels by pressing the first switch.

[0022] It should be noted that the custom mode does not only limit the number of brightness levels of the flashlight. As in Fig. 3. In settings mode, various program-preset combinations of levels can be set, including but not limited to the number of levels, the lumen value of the levels, continuous light or flash modes, etc. The number of modes ranges from 1 to m. A stands for level, and the number of levels ranges from 1 to iMAX. The parameter corresponding to each level Ai is L, with an upper limit of LMAX. The settings for m, iMAX, L, and LMAX are all factory preset. If the user needs to change the brightness of the Ai level in the Nth mode, the second switch is toggled into settings mode, which is set to the last selected mode by default. The LED indicator flashes the corresponding number of times. If the first switch is pressed N times, the LED indicator flashes N times, thus indicating the selection of mode N.Next, press and hold the first switch to activate the custom brightness setting, and the LED will illuminate at the first level of the current mode. Release the first switch and then press it a few times to select the Ai level. The brightness is Li. Now, press and hold the first switch again, and the brightness Li will increase, alternating between the preset lower and upper limits, until the desired brightness is reached. Then, release the switch to adjust the brightness. If the brightness is still unsatisfactory, press and hold the first switch again to continue adjusting. Once the adjustment is complete, press the first switch briefly to move to the next level.If no further adjustments are needed, to exit custom mode and return to normal use, the second switch can be set to lighting mode. The steps above can be repeated to set the brightness for each level in each mode.

[0023] In this way, the user can achieve the goal of using different stage parameters in different scenarios via the user-definable mode.

[0024] In particular, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the first switch S1 and the second switch S2 are connected to the I / O ports of the control circuit. The LED is controlled by the control circuit by changing the 0 and 1-level signals by turning the switches on and off and forwarding these signals to the control circuit.

[0025] The operating mode of the first switch includes at least the following: setting different states based on the duration of the circuit's on-time, e.g., long press (the contact connection time of S1-2 is longer than t, which is usually preset to 0.5 seconds), short press (S1-2 contact connection time is shorter than t, which is usually preset to 0.5 seconds), or half press (S1-1 contact is open and S1-2 contact is not connected), corresponding to different on / off states of the circuit. For example, long pressing of the first switch activates the flashlight's on state, and long pressing of the first switch again turns the flashlight off.Simultaneously, in conjunction with the current status (on or off) and the operating mode of the second switch, a long press, short press, or half-press of the first switch can also be configured as a function for step adjustment, setting selection, or custom brightness adjustment. It is understood that the operating mode of the second switch can be the same as or different from the first switch. For example, in one embodiment, the first switch is a two-stage momentary switch and the second switch is a rotary switch; or both switches are two-stage or three-stage momentary switches, or both are rotary switches, depending on the design of the flashlight housing. It is understood that the first and second switches can be one or more switches, which is not limited to the above description.As long as a mechanism for generating on / off signals exists, different signals can be generated by varying the length of the on-time to enable operation.

[0026] If the second switch is a rotary switch, turning it connects different contacts to send different signals to the control circuit, thus switching between different operating modes. These operating modes include at least the lighting mode and the settings mode.

[0027] When the user operates the system to set the custom level, S2-3 is shown in the flowchart in Fig. 2 represents the settings mode. Once S2-3 is switched on, the user begins to set the user-defined mode. Switching S1-1 and S1-2 on and off represents different operating signals when the user operates the first switch, S1. For example, if S1-1 is off and the connection time of S1-2 is longer than the preset time, this is an operating signal and represents a long press of the first switch, S1, by the user to set the user-defined brightness. When the user half-presses the first switch, S1, the two-stage push-button switch is located between S1-1 and S1-2, with the operating signal transmitted to the control circuitry used to switch between the stages in a user-defined mode.

[0028] Pressing S2 to switch to user-defined mode allows you to select different brightness level combinations by half-pressing the button several times. In this mode, the user-defined brightness is adjusted by pressing and holding the button, using the S1 control. Feedback is then provided to the user through the LED turning on and off and changes in brightness. Theoretically, enough brightness levels can be set to fully meet the user's needs, provided the controller's program memory and the LED's power output are sufficient.

[0029] Furthermore, if the second switch is in the ON position in illumination mode, or if the second switch is in the OFF position in illumination mode, the flashlight will begin emitting a frequency-converted pulse flash when the first switch is pressed and held for a preset time; and the frequency-converted pulse flash will be deactivated by briefly pressing the first switch. The frequency-converted pulse flash is suitable for outdoor rescue operations, signaling, etc.

[0030] Furthermore, the second switch is also configured to define a third operating mode for the flashlight: a lock mode. The lock mode is used to prevent accidental activation while turning the flashlight on or off. When the second switch is in the on position and locked, the flashlight cannot be turned off by accidental contact. Pressing and holding the first switch for a preset time prevents the flashlight from responding to a frequency-converted pulse flash.When the second switch exits the lock mode, the lock is released; or if the second switch is in the off state while in lock mode, the flashlight is prevented from switching to the on state; by pressing and holding the first switch for an initial preset time, the flashlight is prevented from responding to a frequency-converted pulse flash; and when the second switch exits the lock mode, the lock is released.

[0031] Furthermore, the first and second switches are configured to define the flashlight's factory settings. If the flashlight is not in setting mode, pressing and holding the first switch, then moving the second switch into setting mode, and finally holding the second preset time, returns it to its factory settings. Specifically, as described in Fig.As shown in Figure 5, if the flashlight is not in setting mode (i.e., if switches S2-3 are not switched on), pressing and holding the first switch S1-2 while simultaneously switching the second switch S2 to the switch-on position resets the flashlight to its factory settings. If the S1-2 position is held for a time t, the flashlight will be reset to its factory settings. If either switch S1-2 or S2-3 is switched off within the specified time t, operation will cease and the flashlight will not be reset to its factory settings.

[0032] Furthermore, the flashlight includes the following: an end piece 1, an end piece connector 2, a first circuit board 3, a second circuit board 4, a gear shaft 5, a gear 6 and a rotary knob 7.

[0033] The end piece connector is provided above the end piece, the end piece connector is provided with a receiving space with an opening to the top, the first circuit board is provided in the receiving space and the first switch is integrated on the first circuit board, i.e. the two-stage push-button switch 22.

[0034] The end piece is provided with a first cavity, the side wall of the end piece is provided with a second cavity, the second circuit board is provided in the first cavity, a through hole is provided in the upper wall of the first cavity, a leveling copper piece 8 is provided on the second circuit board at the through hole, and a leveling spring 9 and a leveling ball 10 lie against each other in the second cavity.

[0035] The gear shaft is connected to the gear and is inserted into the through-hole after being encased by a rotating spring plate 11. The gear shaft is in contact with the leveling copper piece, and the upper part of the gear rests against the end connector.

[0036] The rotary knob is fitted with a sleeve outside the end piece and the end piece connector, and the inner wall of the rotary knob is in contact with the gear or leveling ball.

[0037] When the rotary switch is turned, this corresponds to the second switch, i.e., the rotary switch.

[0038] Furthermore, a cover is provided for the end piece connection 12, which is connected to the end piece connector. The first switch is a two-stage push-button switch, onto which a silicone cap 13 is fitted.

[0039] Furthermore, a key holder 14 and a metal disc 15 are provided between the two-stage key switch and the silicone cap. A waterproof ring 16 is provided between the key holder and the cover of the end connection.

[0040] Furthermore, the flashlight is provided with a flashlight body that is connected to the end piece 17. A negative spring 18 is provided at the lower end of the second circuit board, the negative spring being configured for an electrical connection with the battery in the flashlight body. A locking piece 19 is provided between the flashlight body and the end piece.

[0041] Furthermore, an insulating pad 20 is provided in the locking piece. A waterproof ring 21 is provided between the gear and the gear shaft.

[0042] The assembly sequence for the flashlight is as follows.

[0043] (1) After encasing the gear 6 with a waterproof ring 20 and arranging it in the end piece 1, the gear shaft 5 is arranged with the rotating spring leaf 11 and inserted into the gear for fastening.

[0044] (2) The second circuit board 4 is arranged in the end piece, and the locking piece 19, which is provided with the insulating pad 20, locks the second circuit board 4 in the end piece.

[0045] (3) The end piece assembly is equipped with the leveling spring 9 and the leveling ball 10 and is mounted in the end piece connector 2 after the rotary knob 7 has been attached. The end piece connector is then tightened with a screw with a waterproof ring 16.

[0046] (4) The first circuit board 3 is mounted in the end assembly, and after soldering the connecting wire, the key holder 14 and the metal disc 15 are placed on the switch.

[0047] (5) The cover of the end fitting, which is fitted with the silicone cap 13 and the waterproof ring 16, is locked onto the end fitting assembly.

[0048] The above description of the user-definable flashlight contained in this disclosure is intended to facilitate understanding of this disclosure; however, the implementation of this disclosure is not limited to the described embodiments. All changes, modifications, substitutions, combinations, or simplifications made without departing from the principles of this disclosure should be considered equivalent substitutions and included within the scope of protection of this disclosure. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] CN 2024110153295

[0001]

Claims

[1] A flashlight with user-definable modes, comprising: an LED, an LED driver circuit, a control circuit and a second switch, wherein the LED driver circuit and the second switch are each electrically connected to the control circuit, the LED driver circuit is electrically connected to the LED; and The second switch is configured to define at least one operating mode of the flashlight. If the second switch is in setting mode, the control circuit configures the flashlight into N user-defined modes, each user-defined mode supporting M levels. The values ​​of N and M are both less than or equal to a preset upper limit of the flashlight. [2] The flashlight with user-definable modes of claim 1, further comprising a first switch, wherein the first switch is configured to define at least two usage states of the flashlight: an on state and an off state; and wherein the second switch is further configured to define a second working mode of the flashlight: an illumination mode; wherein, when the second switch is in the on state in the setting mode, and the first switch is triggered N times, the LED flashes N times accordingly to remind a user of a current working mode of the flashlight; and when the second switch is in the on state in lighting mode or when the second switch is in the off state in lighting mode, the flashlight starts with a frequency-converted pulse flash by long pressing the first switch for a first preset time; and by tapping the first switch, the flashlight turns off the frequency-converted pulse flash, Each of the user-definable modes supports adjusting a brightness for each level between upper and lower limits. [3] A flashlight with user-definable modes according to claim 2, wherein the first switch is a two-position push-button switch and the second switch is a rotary switch, wherein one or more first switches are provided. [4] A flashlight with customizable modes according to claim 2, wherein the customizable modes are used to limit the number of brightness levels of the flashlight, wherein a brightness corresponding to each brightness level corresponds to a preset value. [5] The flashlight with user-definable modes of claim 2, wherein the second switch is further configured to define a third operating mode of the flashlight: a lock mode; If the second switch is in lock mode when on, the flashlight cannot be turned off. Long-pressing the first switch for a preset time prevents the flashlight from responding to the frequency-converted pulse flash. When the second switch exits lock mode, the lock is released. or, wherein, when the second switch is in the off state in the lock mode, the flashlight cannot be switched to the on state; wherein by long pressing the first switch for a first preset time, the flashlight cannot respond to the frequency-converted pulse flash; and when the second switch changes from the lock mode, the lock is released. [6] A flashlight with user-definable modes according to claim 5, wherein the first switch and the second switch are further configured to define a factory state of the flashlight, and wherein, when not in the setting mode, long pressing the first switch and placing the second switch in the setting mode and after maintaining a second preset time, returns the flashlight to the factory state. [7] A flashlight with user-definable modes according to claim 5, wherein the flashlight comprises: a tailpiece, a tailpiece connector, a first circuit board, a second circuit board, a gear shaft, a gear, and a knob, wherein the end piece connector is provided above the end piece, the end piece connector is provided with a receiving space with an upward opening, the first circuit board is provided in the receiving space, and the first switch is integrated into the first circuit board; the end piece is provided with a first cavity, a side wall of the end piece is provided with a second cavity, the second circuit board is provided in the first cavity, a through hole is provided in an upper wall of the first cavity, a leveling copper piece is provided on the second circuit board at the through hole, and a leveling spring and a leveling ball abut each other in the second cavity; the gear shaft is connected to the gear and inserted into the through hole after being covered by a rotating spring plate, the gear shaft is in contact with the leveling copper piece, and an upper part of the gear rests against the end piece; the knob is provided with a sleeve outside the end piece and the end piece connector and an inner wall of the knob is in contact with the gear or the leveling ball; and If the rotary knob is turned, the second switch is activated accordingly. [8] The flashlight with customizable modes of claim 7, further comprising a tail connector cover connected to the tail connector, wherein the first switch is a two-position push button switch and a silicone cap is placed over the two-position push button switch. [9] A flashlight with user-definable modes according to claim 8, wherein a button holder and a metal disc are provided between the two-stage button switch and the silicone cap, and a waterproof ring is provided between the button holder and the end piece connection cover. [10] A flashlight with user-definable modes according to claim 7, further comprising a flashlight body connected to the end piece, wherein a negative spring is provided on a bottom surface of the second circuit board, the negative spring is configured for electrical connection to a battery in the flashlight body, a locking piece is provided between the flashlight body and the end piece, and an insulating pad is provided in the locking piece. [11] The flashlight with user-definable modes of claim 3, wherein the second switch is further configured to define a third operating mode of the flashlight: a lock mode; If the second switch is in lock mode when on, the flashlight cannot be turned off. Long-pressing the first switch for a preset time prevents the flashlight from responding to the frequency-converted pulse flash. When the second switch exits lock mode, the lock is released. or, wherein, when the second switch is in the off state in the lock mode, the flashlight cannot be switched to the on state; wherein by long pressing the first switch for a first preset time, the flashlight cannot respond to the frequency-converted pulse flash; and when the second switch changes from the lock mode, the lock is released. [12] A flashlight with user-definable modes according to claim 4, wherein the second switch is further configured to define a third operating mode of the flashlight: a lock mode; If the second switch is in lock mode when on, the flashlight cannot be turned off. Long-pressing the first switch for a preset time prevents the flashlight from responding to the frequency-converted pulse flash. When the second switch exits lock mode, the lock is released. or, wherein, when the second switch is in the off state in the lock mode, the flashlight cannot be switched to the on state; wherein by long pressing the first switch for a first preset time, the flashlight cannot respond to the frequency-converted pulse flash; and when the second switch changes from the lock mode, the lock is released.

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