CA1258842A - Lantern with adjustable reflector assembly - Google Patents
Lantern with adjustable reflector assemblyInfo
- Publication number
- CA1258842A CA1258842A CA000511749A CA511749A CA1258842A CA 1258842 A CA1258842 A CA 1258842A CA 000511749 A CA000511749 A CA 000511749A CA 511749 A CA511749 A CA 511749A CA 1258842 A CA1258842 A CA 1258842A
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- light
- reflectors
- lantern
- fixed
- adjustable
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired
Links
Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F21—LIGHTING
- F21V—FUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF; STRUCTURAL COMBINATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES WITH OTHER ARTICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- F21V7/00—Reflectors for light sources
- F21V7/0066—Reflectors for light sources specially adapted to cooperate with point like light sources; specially adapted to cooperate with light sources the shape of which is unspecified
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F21—LIGHTING
- F21L—LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF, BEING PORTABLE OR SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR TRANSPORTATION
- F21L2/00—Systems of electric lighting devices
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F21—LIGHTING
- F21L—LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF, BEING PORTABLE OR SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR TRANSPORTATION
- F21L4/00—Electric lighting devices with self-contained electric batteries or cells
- F21L4/02—Electric lighting devices with self-contained electric batteries or cells characterised by the provision of two or more light sources
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F21—LIGHTING
- F21V—FUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF; STRUCTURAL COMBINATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES WITH OTHER ARTICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- F21V14/00—Controlling the distribution of the light emitted by adjustment of elements
- F21V14/04—Controlling the distribution of the light emitted by adjustment of elements by movement of reflectors
- F21V14/045—Controlling the distribution of the light emitted by adjustment of elements by movement of reflectors in portable lighting devices
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F21—LIGHTING
- F21V—FUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF; STRUCTURAL COMBINATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES WITH OTHER ARTICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- F21V17/00—Fastening of component parts of lighting devices, e.g. shades, globes, refractors, reflectors, filters, screens, grids or protective cages
- F21V17/02—Fastening of component parts of lighting devices, e.g. shades, globes, refractors, reflectors, filters, screens, grids or protective cages with provision for adjustment
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Non-Portable Lighting Devices Or Systems Thereof (AREA)
- Lighting Device Outwards From Vehicle And Optical Signal (AREA)
Abstract
ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE
A lantern having an adjustable reflector assembly that permits convenient selection of the angular extent of the projected light, ranging between a 360 degree pattern and a predetermined smaller pattern, e.q., 180 degrees. The lantern includes a pair of light sources and the reflector assembly includes a pair of fixed reflectors and a pair of pivotal reflectors, located generally between the two light sources. A
reciprocable actuator controllably pivots the pivotal reflectors between a retracted position, in which they are aligned with the fixed reflectors and a 360 degree projection pattern is produced, and an extended position, in which the pivotal reflectors are located alongside the fixed reflectors and the predetermined smaller projection pattern is provided.
A lantern having an adjustable reflector assembly that permits convenient selection of the angular extent of the projected light, ranging between a 360 degree pattern and a predetermined smaller pattern, e.q., 180 degrees. The lantern includes a pair of light sources and the reflector assembly includes a pair of fixed reflectors and a pair of pivotal reflectors, located generally between the two light sources. A
reciprocable actuator controllably pivots the pivotal reflectors between a retracted position, in which they are aligned with the fixed reflectors and a 360 degree projection pattern is produced, and an extended position, in which the pivotal reflectors are located alongside the fixed reflectors and the predetermined smaller projection pattern is provided.
Description
~25~4Z P03 1886 BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates generally to lighting apparatus, and, more particularly, to portable lanterns and the like having adiustable reflector assemblies.
Lighting apparatus such as portable kerosene and electric lanterns typically project light in a horizontal plane extending over 360 dPgrees. In most cases, this projection pattern is satisfactory. Sometimes, however, it is desirable to limit the angular extent of the lant~rn's projected light. For example, when such lanterns are used in camping, it is frequently desirable to llmit the angular extent of the projected light, e.g., to 180 degrees, so as not to disturb neighboring eampers.
In the past, lanterns of this kind have sometimes included shutters for limiting the angular extent of the projected light. These shutters, which typically have been in the form of a slide or door mounte~ on the lankern's exterior, have not proven to be entirely satisfactory. First, they are not generally arranged to r~direct outwardly all light initially emitted in undesired directions. Additionally, such shutters have not permitted a convenient adjustment o~ the angular extent o~ the projected light, between a 360 degree pattern and a predetermined smaller pattern.
It should therefore be appreciated that there is a need ~or a lantern having an adjustable re~lactor assembly that permit~ a convenient selection o~ the angular pattern of the projected li~ht, between a 360 degree pattern and a P03 18~6 ~lZ5~ 2 predetermined ~maller pattern ~e.g., 180 degrees), and that projects fiubstantially all of the generated light such that the pro;ected light 1 5 averag~ intensity varies inversely with its angular extant. The present invention ~ulfill~ this need.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION -The present invention is embodied in a lighting apparatu~ such as a portable lantern having an adjustable reflector assembly that permits convenient adjustment of the angular extent o~ the projected light, between a 360 degree pattern and a predetermined smaller pattern. The adj~stable reflector assembly is inexpensive to manufacture and convenient to use, and it redirects substantially all of the light incident on it such that the projected light's average intensity varies inversely with its angular extent.
More particularly, the lighting apparatus of the invention includes first and second light souxces, having longitudinal axes arranged in spaced parallel relationship with each other, both light sources being adapted to project light in a 360 degree pattern, First and second fixed re-flectors are located in positions generally between the first and second light sources and adapted to reflect light received therefrom. First and second adjustable reflectors are arranged in predetermined relationships relative to the respective first and second light souxces and adapted to reflect light received therefrom. Adjustment means are pro-vided for selectively flxing the first and second adjustable reflectors in a retracted position, in which each adjustable i25~ 2 reflector is aligned with a separate one of the fixed reflectors and the lantern projects light in a fixed 360 degree pattern, or an extended position, in which each adjustable reflector is located alongside the associated fixed reflector and the lantern projects light in a predetermined, fixed pattern substantially less than 360 degrees, e.g., 180 degrees.
In more detailed aspects of the invention, the fixed and movable reflectors are all cylindrically concave, with circular cross-sections~ The fixed and movable reflectors ; 10 in each associated pair have central or longitudinal axes that are coincident with each other and spaced a predetermined distance from the longitudinal axis of the associated light source.
The adjustment means includes actuator means for controllably pivoting the first and second movable reflectors about their respective longitudinal axes, to move the reflectors between their retracted and extended positions. The various reflectors are preferably sized such that when the movable reflectors are pivoted to their extended positions, they cooperate with the fixed reflectors to reflect about one-half of the light generated by the two light sources. The resulting pattern of projected light extends over about 180 degrees. In addition, the actuator means is adapted to pivot the respective first and second movable reflectors to any selected pivotal position between their retracted and extended positions. This correspondingly controls the angular e~tent of the projected light.
Other aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of the ~ 2 ~ ~ ~ æ pO3 1886 preferr~d embodiment, taken in conj~nction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way o~ exa~ple, ~he principles of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a portable lantern constructed in accordance with the present invention, with an adjustable reflector assembly located generally between two spaced, vertlcally-oriented light tubes;
FIG. 2 is a detailed perspective view of the lantern's light tubes and reflector assembly, shown with the pivotal reflectors in their extended positions such that the lantern projects light in a 180 degree pattern;
FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the lantern's light tubes and reflector assembly, with the pivotal reflectors in their extended positions such that the }.antern projects light in a 180 degree pattern:
FIG. 4 is a top plan view similar to FIG. 3, but with the pivotal xeflector6 in their retracted positions such that the lantern projects light in a 360 degree pattern:
FIG. 5 is a schematic view o~ the pattern of projected light the lantern provides when the pivotal reflectors are in their extended positions, as in FIG. 3; and FIG. 6 is a schematic view similar to FIG. 5, but showing the projection pattern the lantern provides when the plvotal reflectors are in their retracted positions, as in FIG. 4.
~25~4æ P03 1886 DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODI_ENT
With reference now to the illustrative drawings, and particularly to FIGS. 1 and 2, this invention is embodied in a portable lantexn adapted to project light in a selected angular pattern ranging between 360 degrees and 180 degrees. The lantern includes first and second light tubes lla and llb vertically arranged in spaced parallel relationship. Each light tube is adap-ted to project light in a 360 degree horizontal plane. The light tubes are preferably fluorescent and powered by a suitable battery (not shown) located within a housing 13 immediately beneath the tubes. The light tubes are located within a closed chamber immediately overlaying the battery housing, the chamber being defined by a bottom wall 15, a top wall 17 and an encircling transparent side wall or window 19.
A special adjustable reflector assembly is located in the closed chamber, generally between the first and second light bues lla and llb. The assembly includes first and second fixed reflectors 21a and 21b extending between the respective bottom and top walls 15 and 17, in predetermined fixed relationships relative to the respective first and second light tubes. The first fixed reflector 21a includes a cylindrically concave reflective surface facing the first light tube lla and adapted to reflect light received from it, and the second fixed reflector 21b similarly includes a cylindrically concave reflective surface facing the second light tube and adapted to reflect light received ~rom it.
The reflector assembly further includes first and Po3 1886 6econd pivotal reflectors 23a and 23b extending between the respective bottom and top walls 15 and 17, in predetermined pivotal relationships relative to the respective first and second light tubes lla and llb. The first pivotal reflector 23a includes a cylindrically concave reflective sl~r~cP facing the first light tube lla and adapted to reflect light received from it, and the second pivotal reflector 23b similarly includes a cylindrically concave reflective surface facing the sacond light tube llb and adapted to reflect light received from it.
In accordance with the inYention, the refl~ctor assembly further includes a reciprocable actuator 25 for controllably pivoting the respective first and second pivotal reflectors 23a and 23b about their central or longitudinal axes, between two extreme positions. In a fully retracted position, depicted in FIG. 4, the two pivotal reflectors are pivoted to positions directly in ~ront of their associated fixed reflectors 21a and 21b. In t:his fully retracted position, the reflectors intercept a minim~ proportion of 1ight emitted by the light tubes lla and llb, and the lantern projects light in a 360 degree pattexn. Conversely, in a fully extended position, depicted in FIGS. 2 and 3, the pivotal reflectors are pivoted to positions alongside, i.e., angularly contiguous with, the associated fixed refleckors. In this fully extended position, the reflectors intercept a maximum proportion o~ light emitted by the light tubes, and the lantern projects light in an angular pattern limited to about 1~0 degrees.
As best shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the fixed reflectors 21a and 21b and pivotal reflectors 23a and 23b all have ` ~2~ P03 1886 reflective 6ur~aces with circular horizontal cross-sections. In addition, each associated pair O~e fixed and pivotal reflectors, e., reflectors 21a and 23a and reflectors 21b and 23b, are arranged with their respective longitudinal axes coincident with each other. The radius o~ the two pivotal reflectn~s ~~
slightly less than that of the two fixed reflectors. Thus, ~hen the pivotal reflectors are pivoted into their fully-retracted positions (FIG. 4), they are closely spaced to, but immediately in front of, the fixed rePl~ctors. In this position, the pivotal reflectors prevent any light from impinging on the fixed reflectors and a minimum proportion of the light emitted by the first and second light tubes lla and llb is intercepted and reflected. Conversely, when the pivotal reflectors are pivoted into their ~ully-extended positions (FIG. 3), they are alongside the associated fixed reflectors and a maximum proportion (about one-half) of the light emittPd by the light tubes is intercepted and reflected.
FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing the angular pattern and ~nten~ity of the light projected by the lantern when the pivotal reflectors 23a and 23b are fully retracted. The solid-line arrows 27 indicate the various paths of light emitted by the light tubes lla and llb in directions bypassing the reflectors 21a, 21b, 23a and 23b. The dotted-line arrows 29 indicate the various paths of light emitted by the light tubes in directions impinging on the reflectors. It will be observed that because the light tubes are spaced from the central axes of the reflectors, the reflected light passes to the side of the light tubes and thus supplements the light initially emitted ~8~ P03 1~86 directly outwardly. Substantially all o~ the light generated by the two light tubes i5 therefore projected outwardly, in a 360 degree pattern.
FI&. 5 is a schematic diagram similar to FIG. 6, but showing the angular pattern and intensity o light projected by the lantern when the pivotal reflectors 23a and 23b are fully extended. The solid-line arrows 31 indicate the various paths of light emitted in directions bypassing the reflectors 21a, 21b, 23a and 23b, and the dotted-line arrows 33 indicate the various paths of light emitted in directions impinging on tha reflectors. Again, because the light tubes lla and llb are spaced from the central axes of the reflectors, nearly all of the reflected light passes to the side of the light tubes and thus supplements the light initially emitted directly outwardly. This reflector configuration results in a light projection pattern extending over about 180 degrees.
In both the fully retracted position (FIG. 6) and the fully extended position (FIG. 5) of the pivotal reflectors 23a and 23b, substantially all of the light emitted by the two light sources lla and llb is ultimately projected outwardly. The intensity of the projected light in the latter case (180 degree pattern) is approximately double that in the former case (360 degree pattern).
~s best shown in FIG. 2, each pivotal reflector 23a or 23b includes an upper pivot arm 35a or 35b located at the reflector's upper end and a lower pivot arm 37a or 37b located at the refl~ctor's lower end. An upper pivot pin 39a or 39b projects upwardly from the upper arm, for reception in a ~2~42 P03 1886 correspondingly-~ized slot (not ~hown) formed in the lantern's top wall 17 (FIG. 1). Similarly, a lower pivot pin 41a or ~lb pro;ects downwardly ~rom the lower arm, for reception in a correspondingly-sized 610t (not ~hown) formed in the lantern's 5 bottom wall 15 (FIG. 1). The. ~.vn~ ~;ns are aligned with the reflectors' central or longitudinal axes, and they are located close to, but nevertheless spaced from, the longitudinal axes of the associated light tubes lla and llb.
The pivotal reflectors 23a and 23b are pivoted about their respective pivot pins 39a and 41a, and 39b and 41b, by means of the reciprocable actuator 25, which is located i~mediately above the reflector assembly. The actuator includes an elongated body 43, with its two ends being accessible from the lantern' 5 exterior, as shown in FIG. 1. Arms 45a and 45b project laterally from opposite sides of the body, with each arm including a slot 47a or 47b adapted to slidably receive a corresponding finger 49a or 49b projecting upwardly .from the respactive upper arms 39a and 39b of the two pivotal reflectors.
Manually pushing the end of the reciprocable actuator 25 tha~ faces rearwardly in FIGS. 1 and 2 moves the actuator to the position depicted in FIG. 4~ Be~ause the fingers 49a and 49b are confined within the actuator arm slots 47a and 47b, the pivotal r~flectors 23a and 23b are automatically pivoted to their retracted positions~ Conversely, pushing the end of the actuator that is visible in FIGS. 1 and 2 moves the actuator and thus the pivotal re~lectors to their extended positions, as depicted in FIG. 3.
: It will be appreciated that light projection patterns ~Z 5 8 ~ ~2 P03 1886 between 360 degrees and 180 degrees can he produced by moving the actuator 25 to positions between the two extreme positions.
In particular, as the actuator is moved from the position of FIG. 4 to the position o~ FIG. 3, the size of the projection pattern correspondingly shrinks from its lniti3l ~6Q degree pattern to its final 180 degree pattarn.
The fixed reflectors 21a and 21b are preferably formed as two walls of a single element. For aesthetic reasons, this single element can further include two additional walls 51a and 51b (FIG. 2) such that the element has a generally tubular configuration. The fixed reflector element is secured in its position between tha lantern's bottom wall 15 and top wall 17 by a shaft (not shown) extending throughout its length.
The fixed reflectors 21a and 21b, pivotal reflectors 23a and 23b, and actuator 25 can all be conveniently formed of a suitable molded plastic material. The reflectors are coated with any suitable reflective material.
It should be appreciated from the foregoiny description that the present invention provides an improved lantern having a special adjustable re~lector assembly that permits convenient selection of the angular extent o~ the pro;ected light, ranging between a 360 degree pattern and a predetermined smaller pattern, e.q., 180 degrees. The reflector assembly is specially configured such that substantially all of the generated light is projected outwardly, and the project light's average intensity is substantially inversely proportional to its angular extent.
Although the invention has been described in detail with reference only to the presently preferred embodiment, it 1 æ 5~ ~ ~æ P03 1~86 will be appreciated that those skilled in the art can make various modifications to this embodiment without departing from the invention~ Accordingly, the invention is defined only by the ~ollowing claims.
This invention relates generally to lighting apparatus, and, more particularly, to portable lanterns and the like having adiustable reflector assemblies.
Lighting apparatus such as portable kerosene and electric lanterns typically project light in a horizontal plane extending over 360 dPgrees. In most cases, this projection pattern is satisfactory. Sometimes, however, it is desirable to limit the angular extent of the lant~rn's projected light. For example, when such lanterns are used in camping, it is frequently desirable to llmit the angular extent of the projected light, e.g., to 180 degrees, so as not to disturb neighboring eampers.
In the past, lanterns of this kind have sometimes included shutters for limiting the angular extent of the projected light. These shutters, which typically have been in the form of a slide or door mounte~ on the lankern's exterior, have not proven to be entirely satisfactory. First, they are not generally arranged to r~direct outwardly all light initially emitted in undesired directions. Additionally, such shutters have not permitted a convenient adjustment o~ the angular extent o~ the projected light, between a 360 degree pattern and a predetermined smaller pattern.
It should therefore be appreciated that there is a need ~or a lantern having an adjustable re~lactor assembly that permit~ a convenient selection o~ the angular pattern of the projected li~ht, between a 360 degree pattern and a P03 18~6 ~lZ5~ 2 predetermined ~maller pattern ~e.g., 180 degrees), and that projects fiubstantially all of the generated light such that the pro;ected light 1 5 averag~ intensity varies inversely with its angular extant. The present invention ~ulfill~ this need.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION -The present invention is embodied in a lighting apparatu~ such as a portable lantern having an adjustable reflector assembly that permits convenient adjustment of the angular extent o~ the projected light, between a 360 degree pattern and a predetermined smaller pattern. The adj~stable reflector assembly is inexpensive to manufacture and convenient to use, and it redirects substantially all of the light incident on it such that the projected light's average intensity varies inversely with its angular extent.
More particularly, the lighting apparatus of the invention includes first and second light souxces, having longitudinal axes arranged in spaced parallel relationship with each other, both light sources being adapted to project light in a 360 degree pattern, First and second fixed re-flectors are located in positions generally between the first and second light sources and adapted to reflect light received therefrom. First and second adjustable reflectors are arranged in predetermined relationships relative to the respective first and second light souxces and adapted to reflect light received therefrom. Adjustment means are pro-vided for selectively flxing the first and second adjustable reflectors in a retracted position, in which each adjustable i25~ 2 reflector is aligned with a separate one of the fixed reflectors and the lantern projects light in a fixed 360 degree pattern, or an extended position, in which each adjustable reflector is located alongside the associated fixed reflector and the lantern projects light in a predetermined, fixed pattern substantially less than 360 degrees, e.g., 180 degrees.
In more detailed aspects of the invention, the fixed and movable reflectors are all cylindrically concave, with circular cross-sections~ The fixed and movable reflectors ; 10 in each associated pair have central or longitudinal axes that are coincident with each other and spaced a predetermined distance from the longitudinal axis of the associated light source.
The adjustment means includes actuator means for controllably pivoting the first and second movable reflectors about their respective longitudinal axes, to move the reflectors between their retracted and extended positions. The various reflectors are preferably sized such that when the movable reflectors are pivoted to their extended positions, they cooperate with the fixed reflectors to reflect about one-half of the light generated by the two light sources. The resulting pattern of projected light extends over about 180 degrees. In addition, the actuator means is adapted to pivot the respective first and second movable reflectors to any selected pivotal position between their retracted and extended positions. This correspondingly controls the angular e~tent of the projected light.
Other aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of the ~ 2 ~ ~ ~ æ pO3 1886 preferr~d embodiment, taken in conj~nction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way o~ exa~ple, ~he principles of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a portable lantern constructed in accordance with the present invention, with an adjustable reflector assembly located generally between two spaced, vertlcally-oriented light tubes;
FIG. 2 is a detailed perspective view of the lantern's light tubes and reflector assembly, shown with the pivotal reflectors in their extended positions such that the lantern projects light in a 180 degree pattern;
FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the lantern's light tubes and reflector assembly, with the pivotal reflectors in their extended positions such that the }.antern projects light in a 180 degree pattern:
FIG. 4 is a top plan view similar to FIG. 3, but with the pivotal xeflector6 in their retracted positions such that the lantern projects light in a 360 degree pattern:
FIG. 5 is a schematic view o~ the pattern of projected light the lantern provides when the pivotal reflectors are in their extended positions, as in FIG. 3; and FIG. 6 is a schematic view similar to FIG. 5, but showing the projection pattern the lantern provides when the plvotal reflectors are in their retracted positions, as in FIG. 4.
~25~4æ P03 1886 DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODI_ENT
With reference now to the illustrative drawings, and particularly to FIGS. 1 and 2, this invention is embodied in a portable lantexn adapted to project light in a selected angular pattern ranging between 360 degrees and 180 degrees. The lantern includes first and second light tubes lla and llb vertically arranged in spaced parallel relationship. Each light tube is adap-ted to project light in a 360 degree horizontal plane. The light tubes are preferably fluorescent and powered by a suitable battery (not shown) located within a housing 13 immediately beneath the tubes. The light tubes are located within a closed chamber immediately overlaying the battery housing, the chamber being defined by a bottom wall 15, a top wall 17 and an encircling transparent side wall or window 19.
A special adjustable reflector assembly is located in the closed chamber, generally between the first and second light bues lla and llb. The assembly includes first and second fixed reflectors 21a and 21b extending between the respective bottom and top walls 15 and 17, in predetermined fixed relationships relative to the respective first and second light tubes. The first fixed reflector 21a includes a cylindrically concave reflective surface facing the first light tube lla and adapted to reflect light received from it, and the second fixed reflector 21b similarly includes a cylindrically concave reflective surface facing the second light tube and adapted to reflect light received ~rom it.
The reflector assembly further includes first and Po3 1886 6econd pivotal reflectors 23a and 23b extending between the respective bottom and top walls 15 and 17, in predetermined pivotal relationships relative to the respective first and second light tubes lla and llb. The first pivotal reflector 23a includes a cylindrically concave reflective sl~r~cP facing the first light tube lla and adapted to reflect light received from it, and the second pivotal reflector 23b similarly includes a cylindrically concave reflective surface facing the sacond light tube llb and adapted to reflect light received from it.
In accordance with the inYention, the refl~ctor assembly further includes a reciprocable actuator 25 for controllably pivoting the respective first and second pivotal reflectors 23a and 23b about their central or longitudinal axes, between two extreme positions. In a fully retracted position, depicted in FIG. 4, the two pivotal reflectors are pivoted to positions directly in ~ront of their associated fixed reflectors 21a and 21b. In t:his fully retracted position, the reflectors intercept a minim~ proportion of 1ight emitted by the light tubes lla and llb, and the lantern projects light in a 360 degree pattexn. Conversely, in a fully extended position, depicted in FIGS. 2 and 3, the pivotal reflectors are pivoted to positions alongside, i.e., angularly contiguous with, the associated fixed refleckors. In this fully extended position, the reflectors intercept a maximum proportion o~ light emitted by the light tubes, and the lantern projects light in an angular pattern limited to about 1~0 degrees.
As best shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the fixed reflectors 21a and 21b and pivotal reflectors 23a and 23b all have ` ~2~ P03 1886 reflective 6ur~aces with circular horizontal cross-sections. In addition, each associated pair O~e fixed and pivotal reflectors, e., reflectors 21a and 23a and reflectors 21b and 23b, are arranged with their respective longitudinal axes coincident with each other. The radius o~ the two pivotal reflectn~s ~~
slightly less than that of the two fixed reflectors. Thus, ~hen the pivotal reflectors are pivoted into their fully-retracted positions (FIG. 4), they are closely spaced to, but immediately in front of, the fixed rePl~ctors. In this position, the pivotal reflectors prevent any light from impinging on the fixed reflectors and a minimum proportion of the light emitted by the first and second light tubes lla and llb is intercepted and reflected. Conversely, when the pivotal reflectors are pivoted into their ~ully-extended positions (FIG. 3), they are alongside the associated fixed reflectors and a maximum proportion (about one-half) of the light emittPd by the light tubes is intercepted and reflected.
FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing the angular pattern and ~nten~ity of the light projected by the lantern when the pivotal reflectors 23a and 23b are fully retracted. The solid-line arrows 27 indicate the various paths of light emitted by the light tubes lla and llb in directions bypassing the reflectors 21a, 21b, 23a and 23b. The dotted-line arrows 29 indicate the various paths of light emitted by the light tubes in directions impinging on the reflectors. It will be observed that because the light tubes are spaced from the central axes of the reflectors, the reflected light passes to the side of the light tubes and thus supplements the light initially emitted ~8~ P03 1~86 directly outwardly. Substantially all o~ the light generated by the two light tubes i5 therefore projected outwardly, in a 360 degree pattern.
FI&. 5 is a schematic diagram similar to FIG. 6, but showing the angular pattern and intensity o light projected by the lantern when the pivotal reflectors 23a and 23b are fully extended. The solid-line arrows 31 indicate the various paths of light emitted in directions bypassing the reflectors 21a, 21b, 23a and 23b, and the dotted-line arrows 33 indicate the various paths of light emitted in directions impinging on tha reflectors. Again, because the light tubes lla and llb are spaced from the central axes of the reflectors, nearly all of the reflected light passes to the side of the light tubes and thus supplements the light initially emitted directly outwardly. This reflector configuration results in a light projection pattern extending over about 180 degrees.
In both the fully retracted position (FIG. 6) and the fully extended position (FIG. 5) of the pivotal reflectors 23a and 23b, substantially all of the light emitted by the two light sources lla and llb is ultimately projected outwardly. The intensity of the projected light in the latter case (180 degree pattern) is approximately double that in the former case (360 degree pattern).
~s best shown in FIG. 2, each pivotal reflector 23a or 23b includes an upper pivot arm 35a or 35b located at the reflector's upper end and a lower pivot arm 37a or 37b located at the refl~ctor's lower end. An upper pivot pin 39a or 39b projects upwardly from the upper arm, for reception in a ~2~42 P03 1886 correspondingly-~ized slot (not ~hown) formed in the lantern's top wall 17 (FIG. 1). Similarly, a lower pivot pin 41a or ~lb pro;ects downwardly ~rom the lower arm, for reception in a correspondingly-sized 610t (not ~hown) formed in the lantern's 5 bottom wall 15 (FIG. 1). The. ~.vn~ ~;ns are aligned with the reflectors' central or longitudinal axes, and they are located close to, but nevertheless spaced from, the longitudinal axes of the associated light tubes lla and llb.
The pivotal reflectors 23a and 23b are pivoted about their respective pivot pins 39a and 41a, and 39b and 41b, by means of the reciprocable actuator 25, which is located i~mediately above the reflector assembly. The actuator includes an elongated body 43, with its two ends being accessible from the lantern' 5 exterior, as shown in FIG. 1. Arms 45a and 45b project laterally from opposite sides of the body, with each arm including a slot 47a or 47b adapted to slidably receive a corresponding finger 49a or 49b projecting upwardly .from the respactive upper arms 39a and 39b of the two pivotal reflectors.
Manually pushing the end of the reciprocable actuator 25 tha~ faces rearwardly in FIGS. 1 and 2 moves the actuator to the position depicted in FIG. 4~ Be~ause the fingers 49a and 49b are confined within the actuator arm slots 47a and 47b, the pivotal r~flectors 23a and 23b are automatically pivoted to their retracted positions~ Conversely, pushing the end of the actuator that is visible in FIGS. 1 and 2 moves the actuator and thus the pivotal re~lectors to their extended positions, as depicted in FIG. 3.
: It will be appreciated that light projection patterns ~Z 5 8 ~ ~2 P03 1886 between 360 degrees and 180 degrees can he produced by moving the actuator 25 to positions between the two extreme positions.
In particular, as the actuator is moved from the position of FIG. 4 to the position o~ FIG. 3, the size of the projection pattern correspondingly shrinks from its lniti3l ~6Q degree pattern to its final 180 degree pattarn.
The fixed reflectors 21a and 21b are preferably formed as two walls of a single element. For aesthetic reasons, this single element can further include two additional walls 51a and 51b (FIG. 2) such that the element has a generally tubular configuration. The fixed reflector element is secured in its position between tha lantern's bottom wall 15 and top wall 17 by a shaft (not shown) extending throughout its length.
The fixed reflectors 21a and 21b, pivotal reflectors 23a and 23b, and actuator 25 can all be conveniently formed of a suitable molded plastic material. The reflectors are coated with any suitable reflective material.
It should be appreciated from the foregoiny description that the present invention provides an improved lantern having a special adjustable re~lector assembly that permits convenient selection of the angular extent o~ the pro;ected light, ranging between a 360 degree pattern and a predetermined smaller pattern, e.q., 180 degrees. The reflector assembly is specially configured such that substantially all of the generated light is projected outwardly, and the project light's average intensity is substantially inversely proportional to its angular extent.
Although the invention has been described in detail with reference only to the presently preferred embodiment, it 1 æ 5~ ~ ~æ P03 1~86 will be appreciated that those skilled in the art can make various modifications to this embodiment without departing from the invention~ Accordingly, the invention is defined only by the ~ollowing claims.
Claims (16)
1. A portable lantern that can selectively project light in a 360 degree pattern or in a predetermined pattern less than 360 degrees, comprising:
first and second linear light sources having longitudinal axes arranged in spaced parallel relationship with each other, both light sources being arranged to project light in a 360 degree pattern relative to a longitudinal lantern axis;
first and second fixed reflectors located in positions generally between the first and second light sources and arranged to reflect light received therefrom;
first and second adjustable reflectors arranged in predetermined relationships relative to the respective first and second light sources and adapted to reflect light received therefrom; and adjustment means for selectively fixing the first and second adjustable reflectors in a retracted position, in which each adjustable reflector is aligned with a separate one of the fixed reflectors and the lantern projects light in a fixed 360 degree pattern relative to the lantern axis, or an extended position, in which each adjustable reflector is located alongside the associated fixed reflector and the lantern projects light in a predetermined, fixed pattern substantially less than 360 degrees.
first and second linear light sources having longitudinal axes arranged in spaced parallel relationship with each other, both light sources being arranged to project light in a 360 degree pattern relative to a longitudinal lantern axis;
first and second fixed reflectors located in positions generally between the first and second light sources and arranged to reflect light received therefrom;
first and second adjustable reflectors arranged in predetermined relationships relative to the respective first and second light sources and adapted to reflect light received therefrom; and adjustment means for selectively fixing the first and second adjustable reflectors in a retracted position, in which each adjustable reflector is aligned with a separate one of the fixed reflectors and the lantern projects light in a fixed 360 degree pattern relative to the lantern axis, or an extended position, in which each adjustable reflector is located alongside the associated fixed reflector and the lantern projects light in a predetermined, fixed pattern substantially less than 360 degrees.
2. A portable lantern as defined in claim 1, wherein:
the first fixed reflector and the first adjustable reflector are cylindrically concave and have coincident longitudinal axes that are spaced a predetermined distance from the longitudinal axis of the first light source; and the second fixed reflector and the second adjustable reflector are cylindrically concave and have coincident longi-tudinal axes that are spaced a predetermined distance from the longitudinal axis of the second light source.
the first fixed reflector and the first adjustable reflector are cylindrically concave and have coincident longitudinal axes that are spaced a predetermined distance from the longitudinal axis of the first light source; and the second fixed reflector and the second adjustable reflector are cylindrically concave and have coincident longi-tudinal axes that are spaced a predetermined distance from the longitudinal axis of the second light source.
3. A portable lantern as defined in claim 2, wherein the adjustment means includes actuator means for pivoting the first and second adjustable reflectors about their respec-tive longitudinal axes, to move the adjustable reflectors between the retracted and extended positions.
4. A portable lantern as defined in claim 3, wherein in the extended position, the first and second adjustable reflectors are pivoted to locations where they cooperate with the respective first and second fixed reflectors to reflect about one-half of the light initially emitted by the first and second light sources, such that the predetermined pattern of projected light when the adjustable reflectors are pivoted to the extended positions is about 180 degrees.
5. A portable lantern as defined in claim 3, wherein the actuator means is adapted to pivot the respective first and second adjustable reflectors to any selected pivotal position between the retracted and extended positions, to correspondingly control the angular pattern of light the lantern projects.
6. A portable lantern as defined in claim 1, wherein in the retracted position, the adjustable reflectors are posi-tioned to intercept light that otherwise would impinge on their associated fixed reflectors.
7, A lantern comprising:
first and second spaced light sources adapted to project light in a 360 degree pattern;
fixed reflector means located generally between the first and second light sources and adapted to reflect light received from the light sources; and adjustable reflector means located in a predetermined adjustable relationship relative to the first and second light sources and adapted to reflect light received therefrom, the adjustable reflector means being selectively fixed in a retracted position, in which the lantern projects light in a fixed, substantially 360 degree pattern, or an extended position, in which the lantern projects light in a predetermined, fixed pattern substantially less than 360 degrees.
first and second spaced light sources adapted to project light in a 360 degree pattern;
fixed reflector means located generally between the first and second light sources and adapted to reflect light received from the light sources; and adjustable reflector means located in a predetermined adjustable relationship relative to the first and second light sources and adapted to reflect light received therefrom, the adjustable reflector means being selectively fixed in a retracted position, in which the lantern projects light in a fixed, substantially 360 degree pattern, or an extended position, in which the lantern projects light in a predetermined, fixed pattern substantially less than 360 degrees.
8. A lantern as defined in claim 7, wherein:
the first and second light sources are elongated and have longitudinal axes arranged in spaced parallel relation-ship with each other;
the fixed reflector means includes first and second fixed reflectors that are cylindrically concave and located generally between the respective first and second light sources, with their longitudinal axes substantially parallel with the longitudinal axes of the light sources; and the adjustable reflector means includes first and second adjustable reflectors that are cylindrically concave and that have longitudinal axes substantially parallel with the longitudinal axes of the first and second light sources.
the first and second light sources are elongated and have longitudinal axes arranged in spaced parallel relation-ship with each other;
the fixed reflector means includes first and second fixed reflectors that are cylindrically concave and located generally between the respective first and second light sources, with their longitudinal axes substantially parallel with the longitudinal axes of the light sources; and the adjustable reflector means includes first and second adjustable reflectors that are cylindrically concave and that have longitudinal axes substantially parallel with the longitudinal axes of the first and second light sources.
9. A lantern as defined in claim 8, wherein:
the longitudinal axes of the first fixed reflector and the first adjustable reflector are substantially coincident and spaced a predetermined distance from the longitudinal axis of the first light source; and the longitudinal axes of the second fixed reflector and the second adjustable reflector are substantially coincident and spaced a predetermined distance from the axis of the second light source.
the longitudinal axes of the first fixed reflector and the first adjustable reflector are substantially coincident and spaced a predetermined distance from the longitudinal axis of the first light source; and the longitudinal axes of the second fixed reflector and the second adjustable reflector are substantially coincident and spaced a predetermined distance from the axis of the second light source.
10. A lantern as defined in claim 9, wherein:
in the retracted position, the first and second adjustable reflectors are located to intercept and reflect light that would otherwise impinge on the respective first and second fixed reflectors, and the reflectors cooperate to intercept and reflect a minimum proportion of light emitted by the first and second light sources, such that the lantern projects light in a substantially 360 degree pattern; and in the extended position, the first and second adjustable reflectors are located alongside the respective first and second fixed reflectors, and the reflectors cooperate to intercept and reflect a maximum proportion of light emitted by the first and second light sources, such that the lantern projects light in the predetermined pattern substantially less than 360 degrees.
in the retracted position, the first and second adjustable reflectors are located to intercept and reflect light that would otherwise impinge on the respective first and second fixed reflectors, and the reflectors cooperate to intercept and reflect a minimum proportion of light emitted by the first and second light sources, such that the lantern projects light in a substantially 360 degree pattern; and in the extended position, the first and second adjustable reflectors are located alongside the respective first and second fixed reflectors, and the reflectors cooperate to intercept and reflect a maximum proportion of light emitted by the first and second light sources, such that the lantern projects light in the predetermined pattern substantially less than 360 degrees.
11. A lantern as defined in claim 10, wherein in the extended position, each fixed reflector and associated adjustable reflector intercept and reflect approximately one-half of the light emitted by the associated light source, such that the lantern projects light in a substantially 18 degree pattern.
12. A lantern as defined in claim 11, wherein in the extended position, each associated pair of fixed and adjustable reflectors combines to form an approximate half-cylindrical reflective surface, and the associated light source is approximately aligned with the circumferential edges of the two reflectors, spaced from their substantially coincident longitudinal axes.
13. A lantern as defined in claim 9, wherein the adjustable reflector means further includes actuator means for pivoting the first and second adjustable reflectors about their respective longitudinal axes, to selectively fix the adjustable reflectors in the retracted position or the extended position.
14. A lantern as defined in claim 13, wherein the actuator means pivots the first and second movable reflectors simultaneously.
15. A lantern as defined in claim 8, wherein:
the adjustable reflector means further includes means for selectively fixing the first and second adjustable reflectors in any selected position between the retracted position and the extended position, such that the lantern projects light over a selected angular pattern between the substantially 360 degree pattern and the predetermined pattern substantially less than 360 degrees; and the first and second adjustable reflectors are configured such that the lantern projects light at a substantially uniform intensity inversely proportional to the angular size of its projection pattern.
the adjustable reflector means further includes means for selectively fixing the first and second adjustable reflectors in any selected position between the retracted position and the extended position, such that the lantern projects light over a selected angular pattern between the substantially 360 degree pattern and the predetermined pattern substantially less than 360 degrees; and the first and second adjustable reflectors are configured such that the lantern projects light at a substantially uniform intensity inversely proportional to the angular size of its projection pattern.
16. A portable lantern that can project light in any selected pattern between 360 and 180 degrees, comprising:
first and second linear light sources having longitudinal axes arranged in spaced parallel relationship with each other, both light sources being adapted to project light in a 360 degree pattern;
first and second fixed reflectors located in positions generally between the first and second light sources and adapted to reflect light received from the light sources;
first and second pivotal reflectors arranged in pre-determined relationships relative to the respective first and second light sources and adapted to reflect light received from the light sources;
wherein the first fixed reflector and the first pivotal reflector are cylindrically concave and have coincident longi-tudinal axes that are spaced a predetermined distance from the longitudinal axis of the first light source;
wherein the second fixed reflector and the second pivotal reflector are cylindrically concave and have coincident longitudinal axes that are spaced a predetermined distance from the longitudinal axis of the second light source; and actuator means for selectively pivoting the first and second pivotal reflectors about their respective longitudinal axes and fixing the reflectors in any desired position between a retracted position, in which each pivotal reflector is located to intercept and reflect light that would otherwise impinge on the associated fixed reflector and the lantern projects light in a fixed, 360 degree pattern, and an extended position, in which each pivotal reflector is located along-side the associated fixed reflector and the lantern projects light in a fixed, 180 degree pattern.
first and second linear light sources having longitudinal axes arranged in spaced parallel relationship with each other, both light sources being adapted to project light in a 360 degree pattern;
first and second fixed reflectors located in positions generally between the first and second light sources and adapted to reflect light received from the light sources;
first and second pivotal reflectors arranged in pre-determined relationships relative to the respective first and second light sources and adapted to reflect light received from the light sources;
wherein the first fixed reflector and the first pivotal reflector are cylindrically concave and have coincident longi-tudinal axes that are spaced a predetermined distance from the longitudinal axis of the first light source;
wherein the second fixed reflector and the second pivotal reflector are cylindrically concave and have coincident longitudinal axes that are spaced a predetermined distance from the longitudinal axis of the second light source; and actuator means for selectively pivoting the first and second pivotal reflectors about their respective longitudinal axes and fixing the reflectors in any desired position between a retracted position, in which each pivotal reflector is located to intercept and reflect light that would otherwise impinge on the associated fixed reflector and the lantern projects light in a fixed, 360 degree pattern, and an extended position, in which each pivotal reflector is located along-side the associated fixed reflector and the lantern projects light in a fixed, 180 degree pattern.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US74764885A | 1985-06-21 | 1985-06-21 | |
US747,648 | 1985-06-21 |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
CA1258842A true CA1258842A (en) | 1989-08-29 |
Family
ID=25006040
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
CA000511749A Expired CA1258842A (en) | 1985-06-21 | 1986-06-17 | Lantern with adjustable reflector assembly |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP0206702A3 (en) |
CA (1) | CA1258842A (en) |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO2020253189A1 (en) * | 2019-06-17 | 2020-12-24 | 宁波福泰电器有限公司 | Lamp and assembly method therefor |
Families Citing this family (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE68913560D1 (en) * | 1988-01-20 | 1994-04-14 | Light Years Ahead Ltd | Room lighting. |
ES2137091B1 (en) * | 1996-11-13 | 2000-08-01 | Lassovsky Leon A | LIGHTING SYSTEM WITH REDIRECTABLE REFLECTORS. |
US7222986B2 (en) | 2005-03-07 | 2007-05-29 | Daka Research Inc. | Multiple swivel flashlight |
US9335041B2 (en) | 2012-05-07 | 2016-05-10 | Abl Ip Holding Llc | LED light fixture |
Family Cites Families (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
FI52145C (en) * | 1971-01-12 | 1977-06-10 | Tarmo Aatos Nykaenen | Lamp. |
FR2517022A1 (en) * | 1981-11-24 | 1983-05-27 | Wetzel Equipelec Sarl | Adjustable height suspended light fitting for fluorescent tubes - use receptacle suspended from ceiling fixture and having adjustable reflectors |
-
1986
- 1986-06-16 EP EP86304588A patent/EP0206702A3/en not_active Ceased
- 1986-06-17 CA CA000511749A patent/CA1258842A/en not_active Expired
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO2020253189A1 (en) * | 2019-06-17 | 2020-12-24 | 宁波福泰电器有限公司 | Lamp and assembly method therefor |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP0206702A3 (en) | 1988-09-07 |
EP0206702A2 (en) | 1986-12-30 |
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