Compact Diver Flashlight Assembly with Dual Light Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing compact flashlights for scuba divers do not efficiently integrate a primary and backup light with a U-shaped handle, occupying a diver's hand and requiring separate mounting, which complicates operation and increases the need for additional equipment.
Innovation Solution
A compact underwater flashlight assembly featuring a U-shaped handle with an adjustable top bar, where both primary and backup lights are securely mounted on the top bar using elastic cords, bungee cords, or clamps, eliminating the need for separate mounting and allowing hands-free operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a diver carries a primary light and a backup light separately (one in hand, one clipped to gear), then both lights are available for use, but the diver's hand is occupied and operation of other tools is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the primary light and backup light into a single integrated assembly mounted on the diver's wrist. Both lights are positioned in close proximity within the same housing structure, allowing the diver to carry both lights without occupying the hand. This merging of previously separate components resolves the contradiction by providing hand freedom while maintaining availability of both lights.
Solution Approach 2:
The wrist-mounted assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it houses both primary and backup lights, provides wrist-based mounting without requiring hand occupation, and integrates multiple mounting options (velcro, clips, straps) for versatile attachment. This multi-functionality allows the system to replace multiple separate pieces of equipment, improving ease of operation while managing device complexity through consolidation.
2Ease of manufacture
If lights are mounted on opposing side ends of the handle, then mounting is simple, but the design is less compact and occupies more space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions both the primary light and backup light at the top end of the handle rather than distributing them to opposing ends. This merging of light positions creates a more compact assembly that reduces the overall volume occupied by the flashlight system while maintaining simple mounting procedures through the integrated top-bar structure.
3Reliability
If separate mounting devices and connectors are used for each light, then each light can be securely mounted, but the equipment complexity increases and additional elements are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal mounting system where a single integrated structure (the handle with top bar) serves as the mounting platform for both lights. The system incorporates multiple mounting methods (velcro straps, clips, adhesive) within this single structure, eliminating the need for separate mounting devices and connectors for each light. This reduces component count while maintaining secure mounting through the multi-functional design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the mounting function from separate individual components and consolidates it into the integrated handle structure. By taking out the mounting capability from separate devices and embedding it within the handle itself, the system reduces the number of additional elements required while maintaining reliable light attachment.
Data Source
AI summary
A minimal dive light assembly includes two flashlights and a U-shaped handle. One of the flashlights is provided as a primary and the other is provided as a back-up torch. The lights are placed within the upper space of the handle close to each other being fastened to the top bar of the handle by means of fastening devices. In one embodiment, the fastening device may be provided as elastic cords. In another embodiment, the fastening device may be provided as clamps. Auxiliary devices such as a bolt snap, a wrist lanyard, and retractor can be added to the assembly in order to add extra features. Having the lights placed in the upper space of the handle provides a more protected torch light that is less likely to become entangled in ropes.