Wireless Modular Light System Tail Cap Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional remote lighting systems for firearms, vehicles, and helmets are hindered by cumbersome cables and limited functionality, as they often require specific light systems and cannot be adapted or controlled beyond basic on/off operations, lacking flexibility and adaptability.
Innovation Solution
A wireless light system with a tail cap housing a microcontroller and wireless communication module that allows remote control of light sources, enabling adjustable intensity, strobe functions, and compatibility with various light systems through programmable and configurable remote devices, which can be adapted to different flashlight models.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If long cables are used to connect the remote control to the light source, then the light can be controlled remotely, but the cable gets in the way and causes issues for the user
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the control functionality from the light body and places it in a separate handheld remote control device. The remote control contains a microcontroller and wireless communication module that can transmit control signals to the light source without any physical connection, eliminating the cable interference problem while maintaining remote control capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical cable connection system with a wireless communication system. The remote control uses a wireless communication module to transmit control signals electronically through the air, substituting the mechanical cable-based control system and eliminating the harmful cable interference
2Ease of operation
If a remote control is built into the light system, then the light can be controlled remotely, but the light must be on for the remote to work and only basic on/off control is available
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal remote control system where the handheld remote can control multiple different light sources and bases. The microcontroller in the remote is programmed to communicate with various light systems, providing multi-functionality and versatility. The remote can control intensity, strobe effects, and other advanced features beyond basic on/off control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic control capabilities where the light system can operate in different modes (on, off, various intensities, strobe effects) that are not limited to the light being continuously on for control to function. The wireless communication module and microcontroller enable flexible, dynamic control of multiple operational states
3Reliability
If a remote lighting system is designed for a specific light system, then it can work with that light, but it cannot be adapted to or connected to another base
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the remote control and light system with universal compatibility features. The microcontroller in the remote can be programmed to work with multiple different light sources and bases, and the system uses standardized communication protocols that allow adaptation to different configurations without requiring proprietary, non-compatible designs
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the lighting system into separate, independent components (light source, base, remote control) that can function independently but communicate wirelessly. This modular segmentation allows each component to be adapted to different configurations and bases while maintaining reliable operation through wireless communication
Data Source
AI summary
A remote control for operating a light system having a light source housed in a light housing, a power source, and a manual switch that can selectively activate a light source comprising a tail cap configured to couple to the light source, wherein the tail cap has a housing that houses a microcontroller and a wireless communication module, wherein the microcontroller can be coupled to the wireless communication module and to the light source such that the microcontroller can operate to selectively control the light source when the tail cap is coupled to the light source. A remote having a communication interface wherein the communication interface can communicate with the wireless communication module wherein the communication interface receives user preference information from the remote to allow the user to remotely control the light source.