Pivoting flashlight
US7478917B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 3, 2006 |
| Grant date | Jan 20, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 8, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF21Y2115/10
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A flashlight is provided that includes a housing and a light assembly including a light source and a battery. A light activation switch is provided for selectively forming an electric circuit between the light source and the battery to induce light emission from the light source. A pivot engages both the housing and the light assembly to rotate the light assembly between a closed position and an open position relative to the housing. The housing provides a measure of protection to the light activation switch. A spring is provided to bias the light assembly towards either of the closed position or the extended position. In combination with the spring, a flip switch is added so that upon activation of the flip switch the spring moves the light assembly to an extended position. The rotation between extended and closed positions for the light assembly typically ranges between 80 and 200 degrees, and ideally greater than 140 degrees. With the addition of a set screw, an intermediate position between closed and open positions is also maintained.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.