Construction site lamp

Abstract

The invention relates to a construction site lamp (100) for illuminating working areas, wherein the construction site lamp (100) comprises the following: a battery-operated lamp (102); a battery receptacle (108) for detachably fastening a rechargeable battery (110); and a vacuum element (116) for attaching the construction site lamp (100) to a substantially smooth surface by means of negative pressure when the vacuum element (116) is pressed against the surface.

Description

[0001] [2024P00209EP]

[0002] Hilti Aktiengesellschaft in Schaan

[0003] Principality of Liechtenstein

[0004] Construction site light

[0005] The present invention relates to a construction site light with a vacuum element for attaching the construction site light to smooth surfaces.

[0006] Background of the invention

[0007] Construction site lights are an often underestimated component of work and safety equipment on construction sites, especially in darkness or poor lighting conditions. They serve to adequately illuminate work areas, walkways, and hazardous locations, enabling workers to work safely and orient themselves. At the same time, they often function as signal lights to indicate obstacles or risks.

[0008] Modern construction site lights typically rely on energy-saving LED technology, characterized by high energy efficiency, long lifespan, and intense light output. Power is supplied either via mains cables or, for more flexible applications, via batteries or rechargeable batteries. Some models even utilize solar energy.

[0009] Construction site lights are robustly constructed to withstand the harsh conditions on construction sites. They are often shockproof as well as weatherproof and dustproof, as defined by corresponding IP protection classes.

[0010] Construction site lights are installed in various ways, depending on the location and requirements. Height-adjustable tripods are frequently used, on which the lights are mounted to provide broad illumination. Alternatively, they can be installed on building components, scaffolding, or other fixed structures. Often, the lights are simply placed on the ground, provided the light distribution is sufficient.

[0011] Depending on the type of construction site and the specific requirements, different mounting methods are chosen. Screw clamps or tension brackets are frequently used because they can be flexibly attached to structures of varying shapes, such as pipes, railings, or scaffold poles. These brackets offer a secure and easy way to attach the lights without damaging the structure. For metallic surfaces, magnetic brackets are a suitable option, allowing for quick and flexible mounting.

[0012] The aforementioned construction site lights all share the disadvantage that they can only be attached if suitable objects or structures are present. In practice, this means either that several different construction site lights must be carried or that the lights must be individually adaptable to the construction site.

[0013] Based on the problem described above, it is an object of the present invention to provide a construction site light which can be attached simply and reliably, essentially independently of the construction site, without requiring any further adjustments.

[0014] The problem is solved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments relating to the subject matter of the independent claims are found in the dependent claims.

[0015] Accordingly, the present invention relates to a construction site light for illuminating work areas, wherein the construction site light comprises: a battery-operated light, in particular an LED light; a battery holder for detachably attaching a battery; a vacuum element for attaching the construction site light to a substantially smooth surface by means of negative pressure when the vacuum element is pressed against the surface.

[0016] The advantages of the present invention are obvious: the vacuum element makes it possible to attach the construction site light according to the invention to virtually any construction site. Only a substantially smooth surface is required. For example, the construction site light can be attached to walls, panels, panes, or similar surfaces. The vacuum element allows the construction site light to adhere to the surface, thus securely and quickly fixing the battery-powered light source in the correct position. The vacuum element can be active, i.e., automatic. Alternatively, the vacuum element can be manual, for example, with suction cups.

[0017] In another embodiment, the vacuum element includes a vacuum pump designed to generate a vacuum to secure the element to the substantially smooth surface. The vacuum pump is an example of an active vacuum element. The vacuum pump can either be switched on by the user, generating the vacuum required for suction to the smooth surface, or the vacuum element can be equipped with a sensor that automatically detects when the construction light is pressed against a smooth surface. A control device can then activate the vacuum pump to generate the necessary vacuum. Using a vacuum pump has the advantage of maintaining a constant vacuum. This ensures the construction light remains securely attached to the surface even if minor leaks occur in the vacuum element's seal.A vacuum pump can also be used to attach the construction light to porous surfaces. For example, it's conceivable to attach the construction light to OSB boards. In this case, it may be necessary to run the vacuum pump continuously to maintain the required vacuum.

[0018] In another embodiment, the construction site light has a sensor designed to detect pressure data representative of the vacuum generated by the vacuum pump. This sensor ensures that sufficient vacuum is present at all times to securely attach the light to the surface. For example, a control device can be configured to generate a warning signal if the vacuum falls below a certain threshold. The user can then react by either attaching the light to a different surface or connecting a new battery to the light.

[0019] In another embodiment, the construction site light has a control device designed to control the vacuum pump based on pressure data. This ensures that sufficient vacuum is maintained. Simultaneously, the vacuum pump is only used when required by the pressure data. The vacuum pump can therefore be operated intermittently, thus extending the battery's operating time. In yet another embodiment, the construction site light has a control device designed to acquire battery status data, representative of the condition of a connected battery, and to generate an alarm signal based on this data. Using battery status data prevents the construction site light from falling from the surface due to insufficient charge or a battery malfunction.This is important because of the sensitive lamp housing, as the construction site light can be destroyed by an impact on the ground.

[0020] In another embodiment, the control device is designed to generate an alarm signal when the charge level of a battery connected to the battery holder falls below a certain threshold. This allows the user to proactively replace the battery to prevent the construction light from prematurely detaching from the smooth surface. At the same time, it prevents the user from being left in the dark without warning, as the battery also powers the light.

[0021] In another embodiment, the control device is designed to activate the light source based on the alarm signal in order to emit a visual warning signal. By emitting a visual warning signal, the existing light can be used to warn the user. Therefore, no additional components, such as loudspeakers, are required to warn the user.

[0022] In a further embodiment, the vacuum element comprises a vacuum sealing element which is elastically deformable such that it adapts to the essentially smooth surface when pressed against it. The vacuum sealing element compensates for irregularities on the essentially smooth surface to ensure a reliable seal of the vacuum chamber.

[0023] In another embodiment, the construction site light has a lamp head to which the battery-powered light is swivellingly attached. This allows the beam angle of the construction site light to be easily adjusted, for example, to precisely align the light source with the work area. In yet another embodiment, the lamp head is rotatable, in particular rotatable relative to a handle.

[0024] In another embodiment, the construction site light has a grip area, preferably located between the light source and the battery compartment. This grip area makes it particularly easy to position and remove the light. Furthermore, the grip area allows the light to be used as a vacuum gripper, for example, to handle flat building materials such as glass, wooden panels, or stone slabs.

[0025] According to another embodiment, the vacuum element is arranged parallel to the handle area and preferably connects the light source and the battery holder.

[0026] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a surveying device for measuring work areas, wherein the surveying device comprises: a battery-operated surveying device, in particular a surveying or alignment laser; a battery holder for the detachable attachment of a battery; a vacuum element for attaching the surveying device to a substantially smooth surface by means of negative pressure when the vacuum element is pressed against the surface.

[0027] Further advantages arise from the following description of the figures. The figures, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. A person skilled in the art will expediently consider the features individually and combine them into meaningful further combinations.

[0028] They show:

[0029] Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of the construction site light according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Fig. 2 shows a cross-section through the construction site light according to Figure 1. Detailed description

[0031] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a construction site light 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The construction site light 100 has a housing 101, for example, an injection-molded housing. The housing 101 has a battery receptacle 108 for the detachable attachment of a battery 110. A lamp head 112 is arranged at one end of the housing 101 opposite the battery receptacle 108.

[0032] The construction site light 100 features a battery-powered light 102, which is connected to the lamp head 112. The battery-powered light 102 has a light source housing 104 and a light source 106. The light source 106 is, for example, an LED, which is housed in the light source housing 104. The light source housing 104 is pivotally mounted relative to the housing 101 of the construction site light 100. Specifically, the light source housing 104 is pivotally mounted in a recess in the lamp head 112. This allows the light source 106 to be swivelled to provide optimal illumination of the construction site.

[0033] In an advantageous embodiment, the lamp housing 104 with the lamp 106 is detachably attached in the recess of the lamp head 112, so that it can be replaced, for example, for maintenance or repair purposes.

[0034] The battery compartment 108 is connected to the lamp head 112 via a grip area 114. The grip area 114 allows the user to securely grasp the construction site light 100 and attach it to the desired surface. The grip area 114 can also be equipped with buttons or other input devices for controlling the construction site light 100. For example, a button can be provided to control the illuminance of the light source 106. A button can also be provided to control the lighting mode, such as wide angle, narrow angle, or pulsating light. Finally, a button can be provided to control the vacuum element 116, which is described in more detail below. It is advantageous to place the buttons described above on the grip area 114 to allow the user to operate the light with one hand. Of course, it is also conceivable to place the buttons or switches at any other location on the construction site light 100.

[0035] The construction site light 100 features a vacuum element 116. The vacuum element 116 serves to attach the construction site light 100 to a substantially smooth surface using negative pressure. In this description, the term "substantially smooth surface" refers to a surface that allows a cavity (vacuum chamber) to be created via a vacuum sealing element, described in more detail below, in which negative pressure can be generated. The substantially smooth surface must therefore be constructed in such a way that no air from the surroundings can flow into the vacuum chamber, either through the vacuum sealing element or through the surface itself. Examples of suitable surfaces include smoothly plastered walls or metal, stone, ceramic, or plastic surfaces. Certain wooden surfaces may also be suitable, provided they do not have excessive porosity. Surfaces with rough plaster or mesh are generally unsuitable.

[0036] Finally, as can be seen from Figure 1, the construction site light 100 can have one or more fastening elements 117, 119. The fastening elements 117, 119 are designed to connect further accessories to the housing 101. For example, the fastening elements 117, 119 can be used to attach carrying aids such as extended handles to the construction site light 100. Such extended handles allow the construction site light to be used while standing. Of course, other fastening elements (not shown) can also be arranged on the construction site light 100. Such fastening elements can be used to connect accessories such as cameras or surveying equipment to the housing 101 of the construction site light 100.Particularly when using surveying equipment, the fastening element may have a ball head or be connectable to a ball head in order to make the alignment of the surveying equipment adjustable.

[0037] Figure 2 shows a cross-section through the construction site light 100 according to Figure 1. Figure 2 particularly illustrates the schematic structure of the vacuum element 116. The vacuum element includes a vacuum sealing element 118, which is pressed onto a smooth surface to secure the construction site light 100. The vacuum sealing element 118 is elastically deformable to conform to the structure of the smooth surface. Together with the housing 101, the vacuum sealing element 118 forms a cavity 120 in which a vacuum can be created to secure the construction site light 101. The cavity 120 is therefore also referred to as the vacuum chamber. It should be noted that a perfect vacuum is not necessary in the cavity 120 to achieve the required suction effect. Rather, it is possible to calculate how low the pressure (vacuum) must be to secure the construction site light 100.According to the embodiment shown here, the vacuum element 116 also includes a vacuum pump 122. The vacuum pump 122 is connected to the cavity 120 via a one-way valve 124. The vacuum pump is located in the housing 101 of the construction site light 100. In particular, the vacuum pump 122 is located both in the lamp head 112 and in the handle area 114 of the housing 101. The vacuum pump 122, like the light 102, is supplied with electrical energy by the accumulator 110.

[0038] On the side of the handle area 114 facing away from the vacuum sealing element 118, an operating element, such as a knob 126, is provided. The operating element can be used to vent the cavity 120 in order to end the vacuum / negative pressure and to remove the construction site light from the surface.

[0039] The construction site light has additional controls, such as switches for activating / deactivating the vacuum pump 122. After the vacuum sealing element 118 has been pressed against the desired surface, the user activates the vacuum pump. The vacuum pump then extracts air from the cavity 120 until sufficient negative pressure is achieved. To remove the construction site light, the user first deactivates the vacuum pump 122 and then uses button 126 to flood / ventilate the cavity 120.

[0040] The construction site light 100 can have a sensor for detecting the negative pressure in the cavity 120. A control device can be configured to regulate the negative pressure in the cavity 120. For this purpose, the control device can read a negative pressure value from the sensor and control the vacuum pump in such a way that a predetermined negative pressure is maintained in the cavity 120. For example, the control device can be configured to regulate the negative pressure in the cavity 120 until the user uses the switch to deactivate the vacuum pump 122.

[0041] The control device can also be configured to monitor the status of the battery 110. This has the advantage that the construction site light 100 cannot unexpectedly detach from the surface and, in the worst case, fall. For example, the control device can be configured to monitor the charge level of the battery 110. Should the charge level of the battery 110 fall below a predefined limit, such as 10%, the control device can generate an alarm signal. The alarm signal can be output to the user in various ways. However, it is advantageous to generate a visual warning signal based on the alarm signal. This can, for example, be output via the light 102. In one embodiment, the light 102 can flash as soon as the charge level falls below the limit.The further the charge level falls below the limit, the faster the light can flicker to signal to the user that a change of the battery 110 is necessary to maintain the negative pressure for attaching the construction site light 100.

[0042] In further aspects not shown in the present disclosure, it is intended to combine the vacuum element 116 described above with other functional elements, such as measuring devices or cameras.

[0043] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments shown in the figures, but results from a combination of all the features disclosed herein.

[0044] List of reference signs

[0045] 100 construction site lights

[0046] 101 cases

[0047] 102 light

[0048] 104 light bulb housings

[0049] 106 light bulbs

[0050] 108 Battery compartment

[0051] 110 accumulator

[0052] 112 Lamp head

[0053] 114 Grip area

[0054] 116 Vacuum element

[0055] 117 Fastening element

[0056] 118 Vacuum sealing element

[0057] 119 Fastening element

[0058] 120 cavity

[0059] 122 Vacuum pump

[0060] 124 One-way valve

[0061] 126 button

Claims

Patent claims 1. Construction site light (100) for illuminating work areas, wherein the construction site light (100) comprises: a battery-operated light (102); a battery holder (108) for detachably attaching a battery (110); a vacuum element (116) for attaching the construction site light (100) to a substantially smooth surface by means of suction when the vacuum element (116) is pressed against the surface.

2. Construction site light (100) according to claim 1, wherein the vacuum element (116) has a vacuum pump (122) which is designed to generate a vacuum in order to attach the vacuum element (116) to the substantially smooth surface.

3. Construction site light (100) according to claim 2, wherein the construction site light (100) has a sensor which is configured to detect pressure data which are representative of a vacuum generated by the vacuum pump (122).

4. Construction site light (100) according to claim 3, wherein the construction site light (100) has a control device which is configured to control the vacuum pump (122) on the basis of the pressure data.

5. Construction site light (100) according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the construction site light (100) has a control device which is configured to acquire battery status data which are representative of the state of a connected battery and to generate an alarm signal based on the battery status data.

6. Construction site light (100) according to claim 5, wherein the control device is configured to generate an alarm signal when the charge level of a battery connected to the battery holder (108) falls below a limit value.

7. Construction site light (100) according to claim 6, wherein the control device is configured to control the battery-operated light (102) on the basis of the alarm signal in order to output an optical warning signal.

8. Construction site light (100) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the vacuum element (116) has a vacuum sealing element (118) which is elastically deformable in such a way that the vacuum sealing element (118) adapts to the substantially smooth surface when the vacuum sealing element (118) is pressed against the surface.

9. Construction site light (100) according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the construction site light (100) has a lamp head (112) on which the battery-operated light (102) is pivotably attached.

10. Construction site lamp (100) according to claim 9, wherein the lamp head (112) is rotatable, in particular rotatable relative to a handle area (114).

11. Construction site light (100) according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the construction site light (100) has a grip area (114) which is preferably arranged between the light (102) and the battery holder (108).

12. Construction site light (100) according to claim 11, wherein the vacuum element (116) is arranged parallel to the handle area (114) and preferably connects the light (102) and the battery receptacle (108).

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