U.S. patent application number 10/603568 was filed with the patent office on 2004-02-19 for removable light.
Invention is credited to Alling, Jon, Bruno, Adrian A., Choi, Daniel S., Pelland, Michael, Sugalski, Eric.
Application Number | 20040032729 10/603568 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 29779022 |
Filed Date | 2004-02-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040032729 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Choi, Daniel S. ; et
al. |
February 19, 2004 |
Removable light
Abstract
A modular light is provided. The light has a housing having a
first mating member. The first mating member is removably
connectable to a second mating member of a light pod. The removable
light pod has an illumination device, an independent internal power
source located therein, and a manual switch electrically connected
to the internal power source to control illumination of the
illumination device.
Inventors: |
Choi, Daniel S.; (Mundelein,
IL) ; Bruno, Adrian A.; (Rolling Meadows, IL)
; Alling, Jon; (Schaumburg, IL) ; Sugalski,
Eric; (Chicago, IL) ; Pelland, Michael;
(Medinah, IL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Matthew J. Gryzlo
Wallenstein & Wagner, Ltd.
53rd Floor
311 South Wacker Drive
Chicago
IL
60606-6630
US
|
Family ID: |
29779022 |
Appl. No.: |
10/603568 |
Filed: |
June 25, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10603568 |
Jun 25, 2003 |
|
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10180958 |
Jun 26, 2002 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
362/92 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F21Y 2115/10 20160801;
Y10S 362/802 20130101; A47J 37/0786 20130101; F21V 33/008 20130101;
F21V 21/088 20130101; F21S 2/005 20130101; F21S 9/02 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
362/92 |
International
Class: |
F27D 021/02 |
Claims
We claim:
1. A light for a barbecue grill, the barbecue grill having an upper
member and a lower member defining a cooking chamber having a
cooking grid, the upper member covering the lower member in a
closed position, the light comprising: a fixture having a first
mating member, the fixture being fabricated to be secured to the
barbecue grill; a removable first pod having an illumination device
and a second mating member, the second mating member of the first
pod removably engaging the first mating member of the fixture to
removably secure the first pod to the fixture.
2. The light of claim 1, wherein the first pod has a first internal
power source and a first switch to independently manipulate
illumination of the illumination device of the first pod when the
first pod is engaging the fixture, and when the first pod is
removed from the fixture.
3. The light of claim 1, wherein the fixture has a plurality of
first mating members, wherein the second mating member of the first
pod removably engages one of the plurality of first mating members
on the fixture to removably secure the first pod to the fixture,
and further comprising a removable second pod having an
illumination device and a second mating member, the second mating
member of the second pod removably engaging one of the plurality of
first mating members on the fixture to removably secure the second
pod to the fixture.
4. The light of claim 3, wherein the first pod has a first internal
power source and a first switch to independently manipulate
illumination of the illumination device of the first pod, and
wherein the second pod has a second internal power source and a
second switch to independently manipulate illumination of the
illumination device of the second pod.
5. The light of claim 3, wherein the fixture has a handle portion
between the first pod and the second pod.
6. The light of claim 1, wherein the fixture is fabricated to be
connected to the upper member of the barbecue grill.
7. The light of claim 1, wherein the fixture is fabricated to be
connected to a handle of the barbecue grill.
8. The light of claim 7, wherein the fixture has a spring connector
portion for connecting the fixture to the handle of the grill.
9. The light of claim 1, wherein the illumination device comprises
a plurality of light emitting diodes, the light emitting diodes
being directionally focused in varying directions.
10. The light of claim 1, wherein the first mating member depending
from the fixture is one of a male protrusion or a female receiver,
and wherein the second mating member depending from the pod is the
other of the male protrusion or female receiver.
11. The light of claim 10, wherein the male protrusion and the
female receiver mate in a frictional fit to secure the pod to the
fixture.
12. The light of claim 10, wherein one of the male protrusion and
the female receiver has a stop to position the pod on the
fixture.
13. The light of claim 1, wherein the pod has a manual switch to
manipulate illumination of the illumination device.
14. The light of claim 13, wherein the pod has an automatic tilt
sensor that moves between an open position and a closed position
based on the position of the pod connected to the fixture, wherein
the automatic tilt sensor is electrically connected to the manual
switch and provides an override to the manual switch to turn the
illumination device off when the upper member of the barbecue grill
is in a closed position.
15. A modular light, comprising: a housing having a first mating
member; a removable first pod having an illumination device and a
second mating member, the second mating member of the first pod
removably connecting the first mating member of the housing to
removably secure the first pod to the housing, the first pod having
an independent internal power source located within the first pod
for illuminating the illumination device of the first pod, and the
first pod having a manual switch electrically connected to the
internal power source to control illumination of the illumination
device.
16. The modular light of claim 15, wherein the second mating member
of the first pod slidingly engages the first mating member of the
housing to removably connect the first pod to the housing.
17. The modular light of claim 15, wherein the illumination device
comprises a plurality of light emitting diodes.
18. The modular light of claim 17, wherein the light emitting
diodes of the illumination device are directionally focused in
varying positions.
19. The modular light of claim 15, wherein the housing has a
plurality of first mating members, wherein the second mating member
of the first pod removably engages one of the plurality of first
mating members on the housing to removably secure the first pod to
the housing, and further comprising a removable second pod having
an illumination device and a second mating member, the second
mating member of the second pod removably engaging one of the
plurality of first mating members on the housing to removably
secure the second pod to the housing, the second pod having an
independent internal power source located within the second pod for
illuminating the illumination device of the second pod, and the
second pod having a manual switch electrically connected to the
internal power source to control illumination of the illumination
device of the second pod.
20. The modular light of claim 19, wherein housing has a handle
portion for grasping by a user, the handle portion located between
the first pod and the second pod when first and second pods are
removably secured to the housing.
21. The modular light of claim 15, wherein the illumination device
is a plurality of light emitting diodes.
22. The modular light of claim 15, wherein the first mating member
removably engages the second mating member without hardware.
23. The modular light of claim 15, wherein the housing has a first
connector to secure the housing to a barbecue grill.
24. The modular light of claim 15, wherein the housing has a spring
member to secure the housing to a barbecue grill.
25. The modular light of claim 15, wherein an extension depends
from the housing, and wherein the extension has a first connector
the secure the extension to a surface.
26. The modular light of claim 15, wherein the housing has a
connector to secure the housing to a handle of a barbecue grill for
illuminating a grilling surface of the grill when the pod is
connected to the housing.
27. A modular light, comprising: a housing having a plurality of
first mating members; a removable first pod having an illumination
device and a second mating member, the second mating member of the
first pod removably connecting to one of the first mating members
of the housing to removably secure the first pod to the housing,
the first pod having an independent internal power source located
within the first pod for illuminating the illumination device of
the first pod, and the first pod having a manual switch
electrically connected to the internal power source to control
illumination of the illumination device of the first pod; and, a
removable second pod having an illumination device and a second
mating member, the second mating member of the second pod removably
connecting to another of the first mating members of the housing to
removably secure the second pod to the housing, the second pod
having an independent internal power source located within the
second pod for illuminating the illumination device of the second
pod, and the second pod having a manual switch electrically
connected to the internal power source to control illumination of
the illumination device of the second pod.
28. The modular light of claim 27, wherein the second mating
members of the first and second pods slidingly engage the
respective first mating members of the housing to independently
removably connect the first and second pods to the housing.
29. The modular light of claim 27, wherein the illumination devices
of the first and second pods comprises a plurality of light
emitting diodes.
30. The modular light of claim 27, wherein the housing is
fabricated in a two part mating configuration to be removably
connected around a portion of a handle of a barbecue grill.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a continuation-in-part of pending
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/180,958, filed on Jun. 26,
2002.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates generally to field of
lighting, and more specifically to a removable lighting apparatus
that may be used with barbecue grills.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Barbecue grills are often utilized in low lighting
environments. However, in low lighting environments it is often
difficult to adequately view the cooking surface of the grill and
the food being cooked thereon. Therefore, various types of lights
have been provided to illuminate the cooking surface of barbecue
grills. Such illumination devices are generally grouped into one of
two categories: (1) auxiliary lights removably fastened to the
grill structure; and, (2) various lights integral with components
of the grill structure. However, the current state of prior devices
for each of these types of lights have inherent drawbacks.
[0004] 1. Auxiliary Lights Removably Fastened to the Grill
Structure:
[0005] U.S. Pat. No. 6,202,640 discloses a grill lighting apparatus
comprising a hollow conduit adapted to be mounted to a hollow frame
member of a gas grill. A first end of the conduit may be mounted in
a sliding-fit relationship within the frame member of the grill.
The conduit extends upwardly and includes a second end positioned
over the cooking grate of the grill. An illumination assembly is
pivotally mounted to the second end of the conduit. Further, a
flexible tube extends through the interior space of the conduit and
is adapted to carry a combustible fuel, such as propane, from the
fuel tank of the grill to the illumination assembly. The
illumination assembly includes a mantle which is effective to
provide a light when the fuel delivered thereto is ignited under
controlled conditions. Having a flame exposed over the cooking
area, and in the area of the user, however, may not be
desirable.
[0006] U.S. Pat. No. 5,664,875 discloses a barbecue grill light
comprising a housing, and a structure for mounting the housing to a
side platform of a barbecue grill. An elongated flexible gooseneck
shaft is connected to the housing at one end, and an assembly for
illuminating the cooking area is affixed to an upper end of the
elongated flexible gooseneck shaft. Such a device, however,
requires a side platform on the barbecue grill. Further, if the
light is positioned over the cooking surface it may become
obtrusive to the user when attempting to close the lid of the
barbecue grill.
[0007] 2. Lights Integral with Components of the Grill
Structure:
[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 5,257,169 discloses a barbecue grill lighting
apparatus. The lighting apparatus of the '169 patent contains a
cylindrical housing with a bulb located in the housing. The housing
is arranged for fixed securement to the upper barbecue grill
housing with a pair of flanged wall plates. The housing is
positioned adjacent and below the handle of the upper barbecue
grill housing. Further, the housing of this lighting apparatus
includes a crank handle connected to a generator. When the crank
handle is turned the generator, which is in operative communication
with rechargeable batteries, effects selective illumination of the
bulb in the housing. Since this device is directly below the
handle, it may become obtrusive to the user when opening and
closing the grill lid. Further, the generator crank is complicated
for the user to operate.
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 6,073,623 discloses a retractable grill light
mounted to an upper portion of the front of the lower grill housing
and moveable between a first operable position and a second stored
position. In the operable position the light is oriented to
illuminate the cooking surface of the grill. In the stored
position, the top surface of the light is substantially aligned
with the cooking surface and the top surface of an auxiliary shelf
attached to the grill. This lighting device, however, may not
provide adequate lighting to foods placed on the rear of the
cooking grate. Further, when the light is mounted in the operable
position it is above the front of the cooking grate and may
interfere with the user's ability to manipulate the food on the
cooking grate.
[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 6,079,843 discloses a lighting apparatus
protruding from the grill housing adjacent a rear of the grill. The
lighting apparatus includes a lighting enclosure having a mounting
bracket secured within the grill pit of the grill housing and
extending outwardly therefrom, and a substantially transparent
front closure means for sufficient sealing a front of the lighting
enclosure. A lighting means is positioned within the lighting
enclosure for illuminating the grilling surface through the
substantially transparent front closure means. Such an apparatus,
however, is large and reduces the surface area of the cooking
grid.
[0011] U.S. Pat. No. 6,132,055 discloses a handle assembly mounted
to a barbecue grill lid. The handle assembly includes an integral
light positioned to shine upon the cooking surface of the barbecue
grill when the barbecue lid is open. The integral barbecue
handle/light assembly is preferably mounted by removal of the
conventional handle from the barbecue grill lid, and attaching the
integral barbecue handle/light and mounting hardware in place of
the conventional handle. The integral handle/light is shaped as a
light-containing tube having a clear outer housing, and an inner
housing or mounting cradle. The inner housing is semi-circular in
cross-sectional shape and runs substantially the length of the
outer tube. Such a device is difficult to assemble because it
requires disassembly of the conventional grill handle prior to the
assembly of the grill light. Further, such a device is
expensive.
[0012] Accordingly, a simple and inexpensive lighting apparatus for
barbecue grills in accordance with the present invention provides
an apparatus which eliminates the drawbacks of prior illumination
devices.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] The present invention provides a light. In one embodiment,
the light is connected to a barbecue grill. The present assembly is
relatively inexpensive and is easy to manufacture, assemble and
connect to the barbecue grill. Further, while the present assembly
can be provided on new barbecue grills, it also can be utilized as
a retrofit assembly on existing barbecue grills. Additionally, the
present assembly has numerous uses in addition to being utilized
with a barbecue grill.
[0014] According to one feature of the present invention, the light
assembly generally comprises a housing and an illumination device.
In one embodiment the light comprises a housing having an
illumination device operably connected to the upper member of the
barbecue grill.
[0015] According to another aspect of the present invention, the
light for the barbecue grill generally comprises a light housing
having a light source and a switch. The light housing may be
mounted to a handle on the lid or upper member of the barbecue
grill. The light housing may be directly mounted to the handle or
upper member, or an additional component may be utilized to mount
the light to the handle or upper member. Further, the switch is on
the light housing for controlling illumination of the light
source.
[0016] According to another aspect of the present invention, the
light housing has a first housing member and a second housing
member. In this aspect of the invention the light housing may have
a parting line dividing the housing into the first and second
members. In one embodiment, the first housing member has a light
source, and the second housing member is connected to the first
housing member. Often, the connection of the second housing member
and the first housing member secures the light housing to the
barbecue grill. In another embodiment, the first housing member and
the second housing member are connected in a clamping engagement to
secure the light housing to the handle of the barbecue grill. In
such an embodiment, the first member may engage the second member
around a portion of the handle of the barbecue grill to provide the
securement of the light to the barbecue grill.
[0017] According to another aspect of the present invention, the
light has a first illumination member having a first light source
and a second illumination member having a second light source
depending from the light housing. In one embodiment the first and
second illumination members of the light are separated on the light
housing by a handle portion of the light housing. Further, the
first and second illumination members may depend from the first
housing member.
[0018] According to another aspect of the present invention, the
light housing is positional connected to the upper member of the
barbecue grill such that the illumination device is angled toward
the cooking grid in the cooking chamber when the upper member of
the barbecue grill is in an open position.
[0019] According to another aspect of the present invention, the
light has a toggle switch on the light's housing. The toggle switch
manipulates illumination of the illumination device. In one
embodiment the toggle switch moves between an open position and a
closed position based on the position of the housing connected to
the upper member of the barbecue grill.
[0020] According to another aspect of the present invention, the
toggle switch is an angle dependent tilt sensor that senses the
angle of the light housing as the upper member of the barbecue
grill is opened and closed. As the housing moves past a specific
differential angle, the tilt sensor advances to an open
position.
[0021] According to another aspect of the present invention, the
light has a manual switch on the light housing. The manual switch
is electrically connected to the toggle switch and the light
source. The manual switch provides an override to the toggle switch
for manipulating illumination of the illumination device. In one
embodiment, the manual switch is on a first of the two pods of the
light housing. Further, the switch is electrically connected to a
circuit board in the light housing.
[0022] According to another aspect of the present invention, the
light for the barbecue grill further includes a power source in
electrical communication with the light source and the switch. In
one embodiment the power source comprises a plurality of batteries.
Moreover, at least one battery is typically located in a battery
compartment in the first pod to provide a power source for the
light source in the first pod, and at least one battery is located
in a battery compartment in the second pod to provide a power
source for the light source in the second pod. A battery cover to
close each battery compartment is provided for each of the first
and second pods.
[0023] According to another aspect of the present invention, the
light housing has a first pod having a light source, and a second
pod having a light source. The second pod is distal the first light
source, and the second pod being separated from the first pod from
a handle portion of the light housing.
[0024] According to another aspect of the present invention, a
method of operating the light for the barbecue grill is provided.
The method comprises the steps of providing a light having a
housing, a light source, a power source and a tilt switch in the
housing, the housing being mounted to the lid of the barbecue
grill; lifting the lid of the barbecue grill to open the lid;
having the tilt switch sense the opening of the lid; and, receiving
a signal from the tilt switch that the lid is being opened and
providing power to the light source to illuminate the light
source.
[0025] According to another aspect of the present invention, a
modular light having a first housing and a removable first pod is
provided. The housing has a first mating member which mates with a
second mating member of the removable first pod to removably secure
the first pod to the housing.
[0026] According to another aspect of the present invention, the
removable pod has an illumination device and an independent
internal power source for illuminating the illumination device. The
removable pod also has a manual switch electrically connected to
the internal power source to control illumination of the
illumination device.
[0027] According to another aspect of the present invention,
another removable pod is provided. In one embodiment, when multiple
removable pods are utilized, the housing has a plurality of first
mating members. As such, the second mating member of the first pod
removably connects the first pod to one of the plurality of first
mating members of the housing to removably secure the first pod to
the housing. When a removable second pod is provided the second
removable pod has an illumination device and a second mating
member. The second mating member of the second pod removably
engages one of the plurality of first mating members on the housing
to removably secure the second pod to the housing.
[0028] According to another aspect of the present invention, the
second pod also has an independent internal power source located
within the second pod for illuminating the illumination device of
the second pod. Additionally, the second pod has a manual switch
electrically connected to the internal power source of the second
pod to control illumination of the illumination device of the
second pod.
[0029] According to another aspect of the present invention, the
mating members of the pods slidingly engage the mating members of
the housing to removably connect the pods to the housing. In
another embodiment, multiple pods are adapted to mate with a single
mating member on the housing. Additionally, the first mating
members of the housing may removably engage the second mating
members of the pods, and allow for connected securement thereto,
without hardware. Accordingly, tools are not needed to connect or
remove a pod from the housing.
[0030] According to another aspect of the present invention, the
first mating member depending from the housing is one of a male
protrusion or a female receiver. And, the second mating member
depending from the pod is the other of the male protrusion or
female receiver. In one embodiment, the male protrusion and the
female receiver engage and mate in a frictional fit to secure the
pod to the housing. Additionally, the male protrusion and the
female receiver may mate in a tapered engagement to position the
pod on the housing.
[0031] According to another aspect of the present invention, the
illumination device of the pods comprises a plurality of light
emitting diodes. In a preferred embodiment, the light emitting
diodes of the illumination device are directionally focused in
varying positions.
[0032] According to another aspect of the present invention, the
housing of the modular light has a handle portion for grasping by a
user. When two pods are connected to the same housing the handle
portion of the housing is located between the first pod and the
second pod.
[0033] According to another aspect of the present invention, an
extension depends from the housing. The extension has a first
connector the secure the extension to a surface.
[0034] According to another aspect of the present invention, the
housing has a connector to secure the housing to a handle of a
barbecue grill for illuminating a grilling surface of the grill
when the pod is connected to the housing.
[0035] According to another aspect of the present invention, a
modular light is provided that has a housing that is secured to a
barbecue grill. Typically, the barbecue grill has an upper member
and a lower member defining a cooking chamber having a cooking
grid, and the upper member covers the lower member in a closed
position. In this configuration, the light comprises a fixture and
one or more removable pods. The fixture has a first mating member
and is fabricated to be secured to the barbecue grill. The
removable pods have an illumination device and a second mating
member. The second mating member of the removable pods removably
engage the first mating member of the fixture to removably secure
the pod to the fixture.
[0036] According to another aspect of the present invention, the
removable pods have an internal power source and a switch to
independently manipulate illumination of the illumination device of
the pod. The illumination device of the pod may be illuminated when
the pod is engaging the fixture, and when the pod is removed from
the fixture.
[0037] According to another aspect of the present invention, the
fixture has a plurality of first mating members. As such, multiple
pods can be connected to the fixture. Each of the first mating
members can removably engage a second mating member of a pod. In
such an embodiment, the second mating member of a first pod
removably engages one of the plurality of first mating members on
the fixture to removably secure the first pod to the fixture.
Similarly, the second mating member of a second pod removably
engages one of the plurality of first mating members on the fixture
to removably secure the second pod to the fixture. Additional pods
may removably engage and be removably secured to the fixture in
this manner.
[0038] According to another aspect of the present invention, the
fixture is fabricated to be connected to the upper member of the
barbecue grill. In one embodiment, the fixture is fabricated to be
connected to a handle of the barbecue grill. According to another
aspect of the present invention, the fixture has a spring connector
portion for connecting the fixture to the handle of the grill. In
another embodiment, the fixture is secured directly to the handle
of the barbecue grill. In yet another embodiment, the fixture is
secured around the handle of the barbecue grill.
[0039] According to another aspect of the present invention, the
first mating member depending from the fixture is one of a male
protrusion or a female receiver. And, the second mating member
depending from the pod is the other of the male protrusion or
female receiver. In one embodiment the male protrusion and the
female receiver mate in a sliding engagement.
[0040] According to another aspect of the present invention, the
pod has an automatic tilt-switch or tilt sensor that moves between
an open position and a closed position based on the position of the
pod connected to the fixture. The automatic tilt-switch is
electrically connected to the manual switch and provides an
override to the manual switch to turn the illumination device off
when the upper member of the barbecue grill is in a closed
position.
[0041] According to another aspect of the present invention, a
modular light is provided having a housing and two removable pods
removably connected to the housing. The housing has a plurality of
first mating members. The first removable pod has an illumination
device and a second mating member. The second mating member of the
first pod is removably connected to one of the first mating members
of the housing to removably secure the first pod to the housing.
The first removable pod also has an independent internal power
source located within the first pod for illuminating the
illumination device of the first pod, and a manual switch
electrically connected to the internal power source to control
illumination of the illumination device of the first pod. The
second removable pod has an illumination device and a second mating
member. The second mating member of the second pod is removably
connected to another of the first mating members of the housing to
removably secure the second pod to the housing. The second
removable pod also has an independent internal power source located
within the second pod for illuminating the illumination device of
the second pod, and a manual switch electrically connected to the
internal power source to control illumination of the illumination
device of the second pod. In one embodiment, the housing of the
modular light is fabricated to be secured to a handle of a barbecue
grill.
[0042] Other features and advantages of the invention will be
apparent from the following specification taken in conjunction with
the following drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0043] To understand the present invention, it will now be
described by way of example, with reference to the accompanying
drawings in which:
[0044] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the light of the present
invention as shown on a barbecue grill;
[0045] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the light of FIG. 1, as
shown in an illumination position;
[0046] FIG. 3 is an elevational side view of the light of FIGS. 1
and 2;
[0047] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the light of the present
invention;
[0048] FIG. 5 is a partial perspective view of the internal
components of the light of the present invention;
[0049] FIG. 6 is a side view of the light of the present
invention;
[0050] FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the light of the present
invention;
[0051] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a modular light of the
present invention;
[0052] FIG. 9 is a top view of pod for the modular light of FIG.
8;
[0053] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional elevation view about line A-A
of FIG. 9;
[0054] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional elevation view about line B-B
of FIG. 9;
[0055] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional elevation view about line C-C
of FIG. 9;
[0056] FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of the modular light
of FIG. 8;
[0057] FIG. 14a is a top perspective view of one fixture for the
modular light of the present invention;
[0058] FIG. 14b is a bottom perspective view of the fixture of FIG.
14a;
[0059] FIG. 15a is a perspective view of a modular light of the
present invention;
[0060] FIG. 15b is a bottom perspective view of the modular light
of FIG. 15a;
[0061] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the
modular light of FIG. 15a-b;
[0062] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the
modular light of FIG. 15a-b;
[0063] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the
modular light of FIG. 15a-b;
[0064] FIG. 19a is a top perspective view of another fixture for
the modular light of the present invention; and,
[0065] FIG. 19b is a bottom perspective view of the fixture of FIG.
19a.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0066] While this invention is susceptible of embodiments in many
different forms, there is shown in the drawings and will herein be
described in detail preferred embodiments of the invention with the
understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an
exemplification of the principles of the invention and is not
intended to limit the broad aspect of the invention to the
embodiments illustrated.
[0067] Referring now in detail to the figures, and initially to
FIG. 1, there is shown a barbecue grill, generally designated by
reference numeral 10, having a light 12 that is constructed in
accordance with the teachings of the present invention. The
barbecue grill 10 generally comprises a cooking vessel 14 secured
to a portable cart 16, however, any grill support structure 16,
including a stationary support structure may be utilized. The
cooking vessel 14 comprises an upper member 18 and a lower member
20. The lower member 18 defines a cooking chamber having a cooking
grid 22. The cooking grid 22 is situated on the lower member 20 and
supports the food to be cooked. The upper member or cover 18 is
secured to the grill 10 by a hinge. In the closed position, as
shown in FIG. 1, the upper member 18 covers the lower member 20. In
an open position, as shown in FIG. 2, the upper member 18 is raised
so that the cooking chamber, and specifically the food on the
cooking grid 22, may be exposed. As is understood by those of skill
in the art, the upper member 18 need not be hingedly supported to
the grill 10; the upper member 18 may be removable from the grill
10. Further, it is understood that the upper member 18 is in the
open position in substantially any position other than the closed
position. A handle 24 extends from the upper member 18 to allow the
user to lift and/or remove the upper member 18 from the barbecue
grill 10. Typically, the handle 24 is connected to the upper member
18 with end supports 26.
[0068] The light assembly 12 of the present invention is shown
apart from the grill 10 in FIGS. 4 and 7. The light assembly 12
generally has a light housing 28, an illumination device or light
source 30, a power source 32, a controller 34, a tilt switch 36,
and an on/off switch 38. Typically, the light 12 is operably
connected to the upper member 18 of the barbecue grill 10. As shown
in FIGS. 1-3, in one embodiment the light 12 is connected to the
handle 24 of the barbecue grill 10. In another embodiment, the
light 12 is mounted directly to the handle 24 of the barbecue grill
10.
[0069] As best shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, in one embodiment the light
housing 28 comprises a first housing member 40 and a second housing
member 42. The second housing member 42 may provide qualities of a
bracket member. The parting line 44 between the first and second
housing members 40,42 is best shown in the side view of FIG. 6. The
first housing member 40 houses the light source 30, the power
source 32, the controller 34, the tilt sensor 36 and the on/off
switch 38. The second housing member 42 generally operates as a
securing or clamping member to be connected to the first housing
member 40. In a preferred embodiment, the light 12 is secured to
the barbecue grill 10 by clampingly engaging the second housing
member 42 to the first housing member 40 around a portion of the
handle 24 of the grill 10. Further, in a preferred embodiment the
light 12 is connected to the grill 10 such that the illumination
provided by the light source 30 is directed at the cooking grid 22
at substantially every angle of opening of the upper member 18 of
the barbecue grill 10.
[0070] One means by which the light 12 may be secured to the
barbecue grill 10 is disclosed in FIGS. 6 and 7. As shown, the
first and second housing members 40,42 attach to one another around
the handle 24 of the barbecue grill 10, thus fixedly securing the
light 12 to the grill 10. Such may be accomplished with a pressure
fit. Often, the handle 24 of the barbecue grill 10 has a circular
cross-sectional geometry. As such, the engaging surfaces 50,52 of
the first and second housing members 40,42, respectively, each have
a semi-circular geometry for mating with the handle 24. In the
joined configuration as shown in FIG. 6, the engaging surfaces
50,52 of the light housing 28 form an aperture 54 through the light
housing 28. In a preferred embodiment, the aperture 54 through the
light housing 28 has a diameter that allows it to provide a
pressure fit with the handle 24. As an addition, at least one of
the first and second housing members 40,42 may have a securing
member (not shown) which is displaced between at least one of the
engaging surfaces 50,52 of the aperture 54 and the outer surface of
the grill handle 24 for assisting in fixedly securing the light
housing 28 on the handle 24 and for preventing rotation or other
movement of the light housing 28 on the handle 24. The securing
member may be connected to one of the engaging surfaces 50,52. The
securing member may be a foam insert, a gasket, a rubber or plastic
member, a softer metal, or any other material which provides the
desired effect. Further, while a circular geometry has been
disclosed for the handle and the aperture through the light
housing, it is understood that any acceptable geometrical
combination for either the handle, the aperture, or both, may be
utilized.
[0071] In a preferred embodiment, the second housing member 42 has
a first end 46 which engages a first mating portion 48 of the first
housing member 40 to seat the second housing member 42 on the first
housing member 40. More specifically, the first end 46 of the
second housing member 42 is configured to provide a protrusion, and
the first mating portion 48 of the first housing member 40 has a
lip which engages the protrusion. The protrusion and lip engage one
another to properly seat the first end 46 of the second housing
member 42 on the first housing member 40, however, any mating
engagement will be operable. When the first end 46 of the second
housing member 42 is properly seated in the first mating portion 48
of the first housing member 40, the second housing member 42 can be
rotated such that the second end 56 of the second housing member 42
engages a second mating portion 58 of the first housing member 40.
Finally, securing devices, such as bolts 60, are inserted through
holes 62 in the second housing member 42 and mate with receivers 64
in the first housing member 40 to fixedly secure the second housing
member 42 to the first housing member 40 around the handle 24 of
the barbecue grill 10.
[0072] As shown in FIGS. 2-3, the light 12 is positionally
connected to the barbecue grill 10 such that the light source 30 is
angled toward the cooking grid 22 when the upper member 18 of the
barbecue grill 12 is in the open position 19. Further, when the
upper member 18 of the barbecue grill 12 is in the open position 19
the manual switch 38 is directed toward the operator for accessible
use thereof. Finally, because the light 12 is fixed in place to the
handle 24 of the grill 10, when the upper member 18 is in the
closed position 21, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the light source 30
is directed inwardly.
[0073] In another embodiment, the second housing member 42 is not
utilized. Instead, the first housing member 40 of the light housing
28 is connected or mounted directly to the handle 24 of the
barbecue grill 10, as opposed to a clamping engagement or other
means in combination with the second housing member 42. In a
preferred embodiment, the first housing member 40 has an engaging
surface that engages a mounting surface on the handle 24 of the
barbecue grill 10. Typically, the mounting surface is an exterior
surface of the handle 24. This may be accomplished with the use of
screws, heat resistant adhesive, clamps, or any other mounting
means allowable. Because the light assembly 12 is essentially
self-contained, the light assembly 12 may be incorporated on
substantially any grill. Further, the light assembly 12 may be
provided on new barbecue grills, and it may also be utilized as a
retrofit assembly for existing barbecue grills.
[0074] As shown in FIGS. 4-7, the light 12 includes two
illumination or light members 66,68 also referred to as first and
second pods 66,68. The illumination members 66,68 are separated by
a handle portion 50 of the light housing 28 between the two
illumination members 66,68. The handle portion 50 may have a series
of ribs to provide a better grip for raising and lowering the upper
member 18 of the barbecue grill 10. In a preferred embodiment, the
handle portion 50 of the light 12 has a generally circular
cross-sectional geometry. Further, as shown in the figures, in the
preferred embodiments the pods 66,68 protrude distal the handle
portion 50 of the light 12. Also, the pods may have a configuration
which allows rain to drip off the light 12 rather than pooling
thereon.
[0075] In a preferred embodiment, each of the light pods 66,68
contains a light source 30, a power source 32 and a controller 34.
Further, one of the pods 66 contains a tilt sensor 36 which senses
the displacement of the light 12 to determine whether the light 12
is in the on position or the off position. Additionally, one of the
pods 66 (often the same pod as that which has the tilt sensor) has
a manual switch 38 which provides an override to the tilt sensor
36. Since only one tilt sensor 36 and on/off switch 38 is typically
utilized, these components are in electrical connection with all of
the controllers 34. While two pods are provided in the preferred
embodiment, more or less than two pods may be utilized without
departing from the scope of the present invention.
[0076] In this embodiment, the light source 30 includes three light
emitting diodes (LED) located in each pod, and shining outwardly. A
reflector 70 is placed within each pod and adjacent the light
source 30 to direct the light out of the light housing 28. Further,
a cover 72 is placed over the lights 30 to protect the lights from
smoke and other debris. The cover 72 is a transparent plastic that
can easily be wiped clean.
[0077] As shown in FIGS. 5 and 7, the power source 32 includes a
pair of batteries which are provided in series in a battery tray 74
and placed within a battery compartment 75 to provide electrical
connection of the power source to the light sources 30. In a
preferred embodiment, each of the battery trays 74 within the
respective battery compartments 75 are also provided in series to
provide approximately 6 volts to the LED light sources 30. As
explained above, in a preferred embodiment, each pod has its own
power source 32 which is provided in series, however, a single
power source may be provided for all of the pods. The batteries 32
and battery tray 74 are placed in the compartment 75 within the
light housing 28 through an opening in the light housing 28. Once
the battery tray 74 is in place, a sealed cap 76 is utilized to
provide a sealed closure for the power source cavity. The power
source 32 is in electrical communication with the light source 30,
the controller 34 and the switches 36,38.
[0078] The controller 34 of the light assembly 12 includes a
circuit board which controls operation of the light 12. In the
preferred embodiment, there are circuit boards in each pod, and
each of the circuit boards 34 are printed circuit boards which are
electrically connected to the power sources 32 located in that pod.
Further, in the preferred embodiment, the circuit board 34 in each
pod is also electrically connected to the light sources 30.
Finally, each of the controllers 34 in the pods 66,68 are also
electrically connected to the tilt sensor 36 or automatic toggle
switch 36 and the on/off switch 38. In the preferred embodiment
only one tilt sensor 36 and on/off switch 38 are utilized, however,
additional sensors and switches may be incorporated into the light
12. In this embodiment, both the tilt sensor 36 and the on/off
switch 38 are located in the first pod 66.
[0079] In the preferred embodiment, the tilt sensor 36 is a device
that uses a moving, conductive mechanical material, such as a
conductive sphere, within a nickel-tin plated housing to provide an
angle dependent switch. The tilt sensor 36 is moveable between an
open position and a closed position based on the angular position
of the light housing 28 connected to the upper member 18 of the
grill 10 as the upper member 18 of the grill is opened and closed.
As such, when the tilt sensor 36 is in one of the open position or
the closed position the tilt sensor 36 provides to have the light
source 30 off, and wherein when the tilt sensor 36 is in the other
of the one of the open position or the closed position the tilt
sensor 36 provides to have the light source 30 illuminated. Such is
accomplished by a change in the differential angle of the tilt
sensor 36. It is understood that the open position does not require
the lid of the grill 12 to be completely extended. When the device
is at a differential angle, for example such as greater than 10
degrees, and preferably approximately 15 degrees, the switch is in
the closed position and is capable of switching up to a 60VAC
voltage and a 250 mA current. While a 10 degree and 15 degree angle
of opening are identified as examples, the tilt sensor 36 is
capable of sensing lesser or greater differential angles for
illuminating the light source 30. The maximum contact resistance in
the closed position is 30 ohms. In the open position, the switch
resistance is greater than 1 Mohm. In the preferred embodiment, the
tilt sensor 36 is Comus tilt sensor, model CW 1300-0. It is
understood that the open and closed positions of the tilt sensor 36
may be reversed without departing from the scope of the present
invention. It is further understood that while a tilt sensor is
disclosed, such is defined as any sensor which is capable of
determining whether lid of the barbecue grill is in the closed
position and whether it is not in the closed position. Further, in
the preferred embodiment, the on/off switch 38 is a depressable
button which provides an override generally for the light assembly
12, and more specifically for the toggle switch 36. Regardless of
whether a controller 34 is utilized or not, both of the switches
36,38 ultimately control or manipulate illumination of the light
sources 30.
[0080] The light 12 may also have a light sensor (not shown)
incorporated therein and electrically connected to the controller
34. The light sensor would provide an override such that even if
the light were in the on mode, and even if the tilt-sensor sensed
that the upper member 18 was in an open position, the light would
remain off until the light sensor determined that it was
sufficiently dark enough to warrant illumination of the light.
Another feature of the light 12 includes a timer (not shown). The
timer may operate in conjunction with any of the electrical
components of the light 12 to turn the light sources 30 off after a
certain period of time following the upper member 18 being placed
in an open position. Each of these features are provided as power
saving means.
[0081] Typically, the method of use of the light 12 is such that if
the manual switch 38 has been engaged at any time to place the
light in the on mode, the light sources 30 of the light 12 will be
illuminated when the tilt sensor 36 determines that the upper
member 18 is in an open position. At such time the cooking grid 22
will be adequately illuminated for the grill operator. If at any
time the manual switch 38 is engaged to place the light in the off
mode, this operation will override a signal by the tilt switch 36
to illuminate the light sources 30. As such, the light 12 will
remain in the off mode, even when the upper member 18 is opened,
until the manual switch 38 is engaged to place the light in the on
mode. Accordingly, the light 12 will only operate when the light 12
is in the on mode (as set by the manual switch 38), and the upper
member 18 is in an open position. If, however, the light is left to
remain in the on mode, opening and closing of the upper member 18
will allow the tilt switch 36 to be the sole control of
illumination of the light sources 30. As is fully understood by one
of ordinary skill in the art, such a procedure may be modified by
incorporating fewer or more electrically controlling components on
the light.
[0082] Another embodiment of the present invention is shown in
FIGS. 8-19b. In these embodiments, a modular light assembly 112 is
provided. The modular light assembly 112 generally has a light
housing 128 and at least one removable pod assembly 166. In the
embodiment disclosed in FIGS. 8-13, the modular light assembly 112
comprises a light housing 128, a first removable pod assembly 166
and a second removable pod assembly 168. The pods 166 and 168 of
the modular light assembly 112 are self-contained and removable for
attachment to various housings, as well as for use without a
housing 128. Accordingly, the pods may operate independently. Even
though the pods 166 are removable in the following embodiments, the
above disclosure is still applicable to the following
embodiments.
[0083] In general, the modular light assembly 112 is designed to be
attached to any surface or component through securing features.
While the embodiment of the light housing 128 of the modular light
assembly 112 disclosed in FIGS. 8-13 is shown apart from a barbecue
grill, it is nevertheless fabricated to be connected to a barbecue
grill as described above. In one embodiment the modular light
assembly 112 is connected around the handle 24 of the barbecue
grill 10. In another embodiment, the modular light assembly 112 is
mounted directly to the handle 24 of the barbecue grill 10. As
explained later, a connector 190 connected to the light housing 128
allows the modular light assembly 122 to be connected to any
surface or component.
[0084] In one embodiment, when the modular light assembly 112 is
specifically designed to utilized in connection with a barbecue
grill, and specifically a handle 24 of a barbecue grill 10, the
light housing 128 or fixture 128 is fabricated to be connected to
the handle 24 of the barbecue grill 10. This may be accomplished in
a variety of ways. As shown in FIGS. 8 and 13, the light housing
128 may be comprised of a two part component, including a first
light housing member 140 and a second light housing member 142.
Somewhat similar, and somewhat different than the prior embodiment,
the first and second light housing members 140, 142 may provide
qualities of a bracket member. In this embodiment, there exists a
parting line 144 between the first and second light housing members
140, 142. This allows the light housing 128 to be secured together
and essentially clamped around the handle 24 of a barbecue grill
10. In one embodiment, the modular light assembly 112 is connected
to the grill such that the illumination provided by the light
source 130, described below, is directed at the cooking grid of the
barbecue grill when the upper member of the barbecue grill is
open.
[0085] One means by which the light housing 128 may be secured to
the barbecue grill 10 is to connect the first and second light
housing members 140, 142 to one another around the handle 24 of the
barbecue grill 10, thus fixedly securing the light housing 128 to
the grill 10. Such may be accomplished with a pressure or clamping
fit. Often, the handle 24 of the barbecue grill 10 has a circular
cross-sectional geometry. As such, the engaging surfaces 150, 152
of the first and second light housing members 140, 142,
respectively, each have a portion thereof with a semi-circular
geometry for mating with the handle 24. In the joined configuration
as shown in FIGS. 10-12, the engaging surfaces 150, 152 of the
light housing 128 form an aperture 154 through the light housing
128. In a preferred embodiment of this light housing 128, the
aperture 154 through the light housing 128 has a diameter that
allows it to provide a pressure fit with the handle 24. As an
addition, at least one of the first and second light housing
members 140, 142 may have a securing member (not shown) which is
displaced between at least one of the engaging surfaces 150, 152 of
the aperture 154 and the outer surface of the grill handle 24 for
assisting in fixedly securing the light housing 128 on the handle
24 and for preventing rotation or other movement of the light
housing 128 on the handle 24. The securing member may be connected
to one of the engaging surfaces 150, 152. The securing member may
be a foam insert, a gasket, a rubber or plastic member, a softer
metal, or any other material which provides the desired effect.
Further, while a circular geometry has been disclosed for the
handle and the aperture through the light housing, it is understood
that any acceptable geometrical combination for either the handle,
the aperture, or both, may be utilized.
[0086] In one embodiment, the first and second light housing
members 140, 142 are connected to form the light housing 128
through a combination of mating elements and securing devices,
however, any connection mechanism is acceptable. A protrusion on
the first light housing member 140 engages a lip on the second
light housing member 142 to mate one portion of the first and
second light housing members 140, 142. After the first and second
light housing members 140, 142 are mated, the light housing members
140, 142 can be rotated such that some remaining unengaged portions
of the second light housing member 142 engage some remaining
unengaged portions of the first light housing member 140. Finally,
securing devices, such as bolts, are inserted through holes 162 in
the first light housing member 140 and mate with receivers 164 in
the second light housing member 142 to fixedly secure the second
light housing member 142 to the first light housing member 140
around the handle 24 of the barbecue grill 10.
[0087] Similarly, as shown in FIGS. 10-13, the first and second
pods 166, 168 may be comprised of first pod housing members 166a
and 168a, respectively, and second pod housing members 166b and
168b, respectively. For ease of explanation, the disclosure of the
pods will be detailed with respect to the first pod 166, and it is
understood that this disclosure is applicable to any pod
assembly.
[0088] Generally, the light housing 128 of the modular light
assembly 112 has a first mating member 178. As shown in FIGS. 8-13,
in this embodiment of the modular light assembly 112 the light
housing 128 has a plurality of first mating members 178. And, the
removable pods 166, 168 have a second mating member 180. The first
and second mating members 178, 180 removably connect, respectively,
to join the pods 166, 168 to the light housing 128. In one
embodiment, the first mating member 178 on the light housing 128
comprises a male mating member 178 depending from the light housing
128. Similarly, in this embodiment, the second mating member 180 on
the first and second pods 166, 168 comprises a mating female mating
member 180. Alternatively, if the first mating member 178 on the
light housing 128 comprises a female mating member, then the second
mating member 180 on the pods 166, 168 should correspondingly
comprise a male mating member. As is understood by one of ordinary
skill in the art, any type of connection between the light housing
member 128 and a pod 166 is possible, and falls within the scope of
the present invention. For example, the mating members could be any
type of mechanical connection, such as velcro, hardware, a
different configuration or design of the mating members, etc. The
design of the mating members 178, 180 in the preferred embodiment
provides for an arcuate member 182 to be the male mating member
178, and a corresponding arcuate receiver 184 to the female mating
member 180 of the modular light assembly 112. In a preferred
embodiment, as shown in the figures, the configuration of the
mating members 178, 180 is that of a dovetail configuration.
Accordingly, the male mating member comprises a male dovetail
member, and the female mating member comprises a mating female
dovetail receptor.
[0089] In a preferred embodiment, the second mating member 180 of
the first removable pod 166 slidingly engages one of the first
mating members 178 of the light housing 128 to removably connect
the first pod 166 to the light housing 128. Similarly, the second
mating member 180 of the second removable pod 168 slidingly engages
another of the first mating members 178 of the light housing 128 to
removably connect the second pod 128 to the light housing 128.
Additionally, the pod 166 has a stop 183. The stop 183 depends from
the pod 166 adjacent the second mating member 180 such that when
the pod 166 is fully seated on the first mating member 178 the pod
166 is prevented from further movement in the engaging direction.
Alternately, the stop 183 may be positioned on the light housing
128 adjacent the first mating member 178.
[0090] Any pod 166 can be attached to any light housing 128 as long
as the light housing 128 has a first mating member 178 and the pod
166 has a second mating member 180. Additionally, the pod 166 can
be removed from the light housing 128 at any time, including when
the illumination device 130 is illuminated, because in this
embodiment the illumination device 130, power source 132,
controller 134 and switch 138 are separately provided on the pod
166, and the light housing 128 is merely utilized as a holder for
the pod 166.
[0091] As shown in FIGS. 8-13, the first mating member 178 of the
light housing 128 may be comprised of a first portion 178a and a
second portion 178b. The first portion 178a of the first mating
member 178 depends from the first light housing member 140, and the
second portion 178b of the first mating member 178 depends from the
second light housing member 142. Accordingly, when the first light
housing member 140 is connected to the second light housing member
142, the first and second portions 178a, 178b come together to form
the first mating member 178.
[0092] Similarly, the second mating member 180 of the removable
pods 166 may be comprised of a first portion 180a and a second
portion 180b. The first portion 180a of the second mating member
180 is provided by the profile of the first pod housing member
166a, and the second portion 180b of the second mating member 180
is provided by the profile of the second pod housing member 166b.
Accordingly, when the first pod housing member 166a is connected to
the second pod housing member 166b, the first and second portions
180a, 180b come together to form the second mating member 180.
[0093] As shown in FIGS. 10-13, each of the removable pods 166, 168
generally contain their own light source or illumination device
130, an independent internal power source 132, controller 134 and
switch 138. Thus, the pods 166 are generally self-contained light
devices, and can be utilized when connected to or disconnected from
the light housing 128.
[0094] In the preferred embodiment, the illumination device 130 in
each pod 166 of the modular light assembly 112 comprises three
light emitting diodes 112a-112c. Typically, the light emitting
diodes (LED) are directionally focused in varying directions. As
such, the plurality of LED's of the present invention operate in
concert in a semi-overlapping manner to light a region. LED's
operate on different principles than standard light bulbs and
flourescent lights. Standard light bulbs use a tungsten filament
heated by electrons to produce illumination. Flourescent tubes use
gas to produce illumination. Conversely, LED's use photons of light
produced by layers of alloy crystals when electrons move through
them. Specifically, crystalline layers in the LED's convert
electrical input into optical output at a color determined by the
exact composition of the material comprising the crystalline
layers. LED's are at least twice as efficient as an incandescent
light bulb. Further, LED's use far less electricity than an average
light bulb, and they shine for a far longer time before burning
out. As opposed to incandescent light bulbs, which convert only
about 5-10% of the electrical power supplied to it into light, as
well as flourescent tubes, which convert about 20-30% of the
electrical power supplied to them as light, LED's can convert far
more of its electrical power into light. Accordingly, for their
intended use in the modular light assembly 112 of the present
invention, LED's are preferred to standard light bulbs for the
above reasons.
[0095] A heat shield 170, which may also operate as a reflector, is
located adjacent the LED's of the illumination device 130. When the
modular light assembly 112 is used as a light for a barbecue grill
10, the heat shield 170 assists in deflecting heat produced by the
grill from entering the cavity of the pod 166. Additionally, a
cover 172 is placed over the lights 130 to protect the lights from
smoke and debris. The cover 172 is typically a transparent plastic
that can be easily wiped clean.
[0096] The internal power source 132 for the pod 166 generally
comprises a battery source. In a preferred embodiment, each pod has
its own power source 132. In one embodiment, the power source 132
comprises two "AAA" batteries. The batteries 132 are provided in a
battery tray 174 and placed within the battery compartment 175 of
the pod 166 to provide electrical connection of the power source
132 to the illumination device 130. In a preferred embodiment, a
battery heat shield 173, shown as a layer of heat resistant
material on the bottom of the battery tray 174 is also provided.
When the first pod housing member 166a is connected to the second
pod housing member 166b, an opening is provided in the pod 166 to
allow the battery tray 174 to be inserted into battery compartment
175 of the pod 166. Finally, a battery cap 176 is utilized to close
access to the battery compartment 175. In a preferred embodiment,
the battery cap 176 is a two-part component. The first component
contains a gasket member 179 to seal the battery compartment 175
when the battery cap 176 is connected to the pod 166.
Alternatively, the gasket member 179 may be connected to an outer
portion of the battery tray 174 to provide a seal when the battery
tray 174 is inserted into the battery compartment 175. The second
component of the battery cap 176 is a locking member 176a. The
locking member 176a has a protrusion 181 which engages the pod 166
upon a twist of the locking member 176a to lock the battery cap 176
in place. Thus, in a preferred embodiment, the first component of
the battery cap 176 having gasket member 179 is inserted into the
battery compartment 175 and does not rotate, and the second
component of the battery cap 176 rotates about first component and
about the pod 166 to secure the battery cap 176 to the pod.
[0097] As shown in FIG. 13, the pod 166 has a controller 134 which
includes a circuit board 134 to control operation of the
illumination device 130 of the pod 166. The circuit boards 134 are
electrically connected to the illumination device 130, the power
source 132, the switch 138, and another other peripheral device,
such as a tilt-sensor 36 (described above), light sensor, timer,
etc.
[0098] In the present embodiment of the modular light assembly 112,
the pods 166 each have a manual switch 138 to manipulate
illumination of the illumination device 130 of the pod. The manual
switch 138 may be a push-button switch, or any other mechanical or
electrical switch, including a capacitor type touch-sensitive
switch. The switch 138 can manipulate illumination of the
illumination device 130 when the pod 166 is engaging the light
housing 128, and when the pod 166 is removed from the light housing
128.
[0099] In a preferred embodiment, the pod 166 also incorporates a
tilt-sensor 36. As explained above, the tilt sensor 36 moves
between an open position and a closed position based on the
position of the pod 166. The tilt sensor 36 is electrically
connected to the manual switch 138 and provides an override to the
manual switch 138 to turn the illumination device 130 off when the
tilt sensor 36 is in an off orientation.
[0100] Any pod 166 that has a second mating member 180 may be
attached to any light housing or fixture 128 that has a first
mating member 178. Various embodiments of the light housing 128 are
disclosed in FIGS. 14a-19b. Specifically, in FIGS. 14a and 14b, a
fixture or light housing 128a is provided for the modular light
assembly 112. The light housing 128a has a first mating member 178
which is adapted to removably engage a second mating member 180 of
a pod 166. FIGS. 15a-15b disclose the pod 166 being removably
connected to the light housing 128a. The light housing 128a also
has an adapter 186. The adapter 186 is provided to accept an
extending member 188 as shown in FIGS. 16-18. Either the extending
member 188 or the adapter 186 may be provided to accept a connector
190 as shown in FIGS. 16-18. In a preferred embodiment, the adapter
186 is a receiving member that has an opening 192 into which the
extending member 188 is inserted for securement to the adapter 186.
FIGS. 16-18 disclose various embodiments of connectors 190 secured
to the extending member 188. Specifically, FIG. 16 discloses the
connector 190 as a spring member 194 which can assist in securing
the housing 128a to any surface, including shelving and
countertops; FIG. 17 discloses the connector 190 as a spring clip
196 which can be connected to a railing or tubing; and, FIG. 18
discloses the connector 190 as a clamping member 198. Next, FIGS.
19a and 19b disclose another light housing 128b which can be
connected to a grill handle 24. Like each of the light housings
128, this light housing 128b has a first mating member 178 which is
adapted to removably engage a second mating member 180 of a pod
166. One leg 200 of the light housing 128b operates as a spring
member to clamp the light housing 128b to the grill handle 24.
[0101] While the specific embodiments have been illustrated and
described, numerous modifications come to mind without
significantly departing from the spirit of the invention, and the
scope of protection is only limited by the scope of the
accompanying claims.
* * * * *