U.S. patent application number 15/637540 was filed with the patent office on 2017-12-14 for lamp with proximity sensing.
This patent application is currently assigned to Humanscale Corporation. The applicant listed for this patent is Humanscale Corporation. Invention is credited to Todd Brunner, Jin Chen, Krzysztof Sosniak, Robert Volek.
Application Number | 20170356633 15/637540 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 59030803 |
Filed Date | 2017-12-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170356633 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Volek; Robert ; et
al. |
December 14, 2017 |
LAMP WITH PROXIMITY SENSING
Abstract
A lamp having a head with a light source and at least one
support arm supporting the head at a joint. The joint allows
relative motion between the at least one support arm and the head.
The joint includes a sliding electrical contact and a torque
insert. The at least one support arm is electrically conductive,
and a ground wire is grounded to the support arm, the support arm
being in electrical contact with the torque insert.
Inventors: |
Volek; Robert; (Brooklyn,
NY) ; Chen; Jin; (New York, NY) ; Brunner;
Todd; (Madison, WI) ; Sosniak; Krzysztof;
(Stirling, NJ) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Humanscale Corporation |
New York |
NY |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Humanscale Corporation
New York
NY
|
Family ID: |
59030803 |
Appl. No.: |
15/637540 |
Filed: |
June 29, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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15180008 |
Jun 11, 2016 |
9719641 |
|
|
15637540 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F21V 23/0485 20130101;
F21V 23/0471 20130101; F21V 5/04 20130101; F21V 21/26 20130101;
F21V 23/02 20130101; F21V 23/002 20130101; F21Y 2115/10 20160801;
F21S 6/005 20130101; F21V 29/89 20150115; F21V 7/00 20130101; F21V
23/06 20130101; F21S 6/003 20130101; H01R 35/04 20130101; H05B
45/10 20200101; F21V 29/70 20150115; H05B 47/105 20200101; F21V
23/001 20130101; F21V 19/003 20130101; F21S 6/006 20130101 |
International
Class: |
F21V 21/26 20060101
F21V021/26; F21V 23/00 20060101 F21V023/00; F21V 23/06 20060101
F21V023/06; F21V 29/70 20060101 F21V029/70; H05B 37/02 20060101
H05B037/02; F21S 6/00 20060101 F21S006/00 |
Claims
1. A lamp, comprising: a head having a primary light source, the
head connected to a support, the support comprising: a first
support portion at least partially comprising an electrically
conductive material; a second support portion at least partially
comprising an electrically conductive material; a first joint
comprising a torque insert formed with a conductive exterior
housing, the first joint connecting the first support portion to
the second support portion to allow relative movement between the
first support portion and the second support portion; wherein the
first joint provides two current conducting paths from the first
support portion to the second support portion, wherein a first
current conducting path comprises electrically charging the first
support portion, and contact conduction from the electrically
conductive material of the first support portion to the
electrically conductive material of the second support portion
through the exterior housing of the torque insert, and wherein a
second current conducting path comprises a sliding electrical
contact electrically isolated from the conductive material of the
first support portion, the conductive material of the second
support portion, and the torque insert.
2. The lamp of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first support
portion and the second support portion is an elongated arm that
does not have a constant cross section along a length thereof.
3. The lamp of claim 2, wherein the elongated arm comprises at
least one channel along an outside thereof for receiving a
wire.
4. The lamp of claim 3, further comprising at least one cover sheet
attached to the arm for hiding the wire.
5. The lamp of claim 1, wherein the head comprises electronics
including a proximity sensor operable to detect an approaching
user, the proximity sensor comprising a heat sinking housing of the
head.
6. The lamp of claim 5, wherein the primary light source is
configured to provide illumination in a first direction relative to
the housing, and the head further comprises at least one indicator
light source, wherein the indicator light source is at least
partially controlled by the proximity sensor.
7. The lamp of claim 6, further comprising a capacitance sensor in
addition to the proximity sensor, wherein the capacitance sensor is
operable to at least partially control the at least one primary
light source.
8. The lamp of claim 7, wherein the capacitance sensor includes a
track pad positioned in the head adjacent to the at least one
indicator light source.
9. The lamp of claim 7, further comprising a motion sensor
configured to extinguish the primary light source when no motion is
present for a predetermined amount of time.
10. The lamp of claim 1, further comprising a spring counterbalance
system.
11. The lamp of claim 1, wherein the first joint comprises a torque
insert.
12. The lamp of claim 11, wherein the first joint further comprises
a spacer having a body formed from an electrically conductive
material, wherein an exterior housing of the torque insert at least
partially comprises an electrically conductive material, wherein
the first current conducting path extends at least from the
conductive material of the first support portion, into the exterior
housing of the torque insert, then through the conductive material
of the spacer, then into the conductive material of the second
support portion.
13. The lamp of claim 12, wherein the spacer further comprises an
insulating portion and a lead, the lead being adjacent to the
insulating portion to be electrically isolated from the body, where
the lead forms half of the sliding electrical contact.
14. The lamp of claim 1, wherein the sliding electrical contact
comprising a wave washer rotatable with respect to and in pressing
contact with an annular contact.
15. The lamp of claim 1, wherein the support further comprises: a
third support portion at least partially comprising an electrically
conductive material; and a second joint connecting the second
support portion to the third support portion to allow relative
movement between the second support portion and the third support
portion; wherein the second joint also provides two current
conducting paths from the second support portion to the third
support portion, wherein the first current conducting path
comprises electrically charging the second support portion, and
contact conduction from the electrically conductive material of the
second support portion to the electrically conductive material of
the third support portion, and wherein the second current
conducting path comprises a second sliding electrical contact
electrically isolated from the conductive material of the second
support portion and the conductive material of the third support
portion.
16. A lamp, comprising: a head having a light source; and at least
one support arm supporting the head at a joint, the joint
configured to allow relative motion between the at least one
support arm and the head, wherein the joint comprises a sliding
electrical contact and a torque insert, and wherein the at least
one support arm is electrically conductive, and a ground wire is
grounded to the support arm, the support arm being in electrical
contact with the torque insert.
17. The lamp of claim 16, wherein the sliding electrical contact
comprises a wave washer contacting with an annular contact as the
wave washer rotates relative to the annular contact.
18. The lamp of claim 17, wherein the head comprises a housing made
at least partially from an electrically and thermally conductive
material; the light source is positioned within the housing such
that the housing dissipates heat generated by the light source, the
light source configured to emit light in a first direction relative
to the housing; wherein the head further comprises at least one
indicator light source positioned relative to the housing to emit
light in a second direction relative to the housing, the second
direction being substantially opposite the first direction; and a
first sensor electrically connected to the housing, wherein the
first sensor is a proximity sensor that triggers illumination of
the at least one indicator light source when a user's hand
approaches the housing.
19. A lamp, comprising: a head having a primary light source, the
head connected to a support, the support comprising: a first
support portion at least partially comprising an electrically
conductive material; a second support portion at least partially
comprising an electrically conductive material; a third support
portion at least partially comprising an electrically conductive
material; a first joint comprising a first torque insert formed
with a conductive exterior housing, the first joint connecting the
first support portion to the second support portion to allow
relative movement between the first support portion and the second
support portion; and a second joint comprising a second torque
insert formed with a conductive exterior housing, the second joint
connecting the second support portion to the third support portion
to allow relative movement between the second support portion and
the third support portion; wherein the first and second joints
provide two current conducting paths from the first support portion
to the third support portion, wherein a first current conducting
path comprises electrically charging the first support portion, and
contact conduction from the electrically conductive material of the
first support portion to the electrically conductive material of
the second support portion through the exterior housing of the
first torque insert and contact conduction from the electrically
conductive material of the second support portion to the
electrically conductive material of the third support portion
through the exterior housing of the second torque insert, wherein a
second current conducting path comprises a first sliding electrical
contact electrically isolated from the conductive material of the
first support portion, the conductive material of the second
support portion, and the first torque insert, and a second sliding
electrical contract electrically isolated from the conductive
material of the second support portion, the conductive material of
the third support portion, and the second torque insert, wherein
the first joint further comprises a spacer having a body formed
from the electrically conductive material, an insulating portion,
and a lead, wherein the lead is adjacent to the insulating portion
to be electrically isolated from the body, where the lead forms
half of the first sliding electrical contact.
Description
PRIORITY
[0001] This application is a continuation of application Ser. No.
15/180,008 filed on Jun. 11, 2016, the contents of which are
incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF DISCLOSURE
[0002] The present disclosure relates to light fixtures, such as
those light fixtures generally referred to as lamps.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Proper workstation lighting is critical to the effectiveness
of office workers. Many workstations are illuminated with overhead
lighting. Use of overhead lighting alone requires an overabundance
of light across an over inclusive area. The result is significant
energy consumption. Use of task lighting in addition to overhead
lighting reduces the lighting levels required from the overhead
lights, greatly reducing overall energy use. Further, today's
office tasks heavily involve reading from backlit screens. Task
lighting allows for the generation of focused light when the task
requires, such as reading a hard copy page, while helping to reduce
eye strain and improve computer-based reading comfort.
[0004] Use of task lighting dates back to the candle and kerosene
lamp. Today's task lights, however, seek ever increasing energy
efficiency with the use of light emitting diode technology, dimming
capability and sensor based control. There is also an ever present
desire to improve the mechanical and electrical systems of light
fixtures to maintain structural and lighting performance while
facilitating the manufacture of lamps with simple, elegant, and
clean-lined industrial design.
SUMMARY
[0005] In one embodiment, the present disclosure describes a lamp
having a head with a light source and at least one support arm
supporting the head at a joint. The joint allows relative motion
between the at least one support arm and the head. The joint
includes a sliding electrical contact and a torque insert. The at
least one support arm is electrically conductive, and a ground wire
is grounded to the support arm, the support arm being in electrical
contact with the torque insert.
[0006] In another embodiment, the present disclosure includes a
lamp comprising a head having a primary light source. The head is
connected to a support. The support includes a first support
portion at least partially comprising an electrically conductive
material, a second support portion at least partially comprising an
electrically conductive material, and a first joint connecting the
first support portion to the second support portion to allow
relative movement between the first support portion and the second
support portion. The first joint has a torque insert formed with a
conductive exterior housing. The first joint provides two current
conducting paths from the first support portion to the second
support portion. A first current conducting path comprises
electrically charging the first support portion, and contact
conduction from the electrically conductive material of the first
support portion to the electrically conductive material of the
second support portion through the exterior housing of the torque
insert. A second current conducting path comprises a sliding
electrical contact electrically isolated from the conductive
material of the first support portion, the conductive material of
the second support portion, and the torque insert.
[0007] These and other aspects of the present invention will become
apparent to those skilled in the art after a reading of the
following description of the preferred embodiments, when considered
in conjunction with the drawings. It should be understood that both
the foregoing general description and the following detailed
description are explanatory only and are not restrictive of the
invention as claimed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] FIG. 1 is a top perspective of a lamp according to
embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0009] FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective of the lamp of FIG. 1.
[0010] FIG. 3 is a cross sectional view of the lower arm of the
lamp of FIG. 1 taken along the length of a lower arm.
[0011] FIG. 4 is a side view of the lower arm of the lamp of FIG. 1
with a cover sheet omitted.
[0012] FIG. 5 is a detailed side view of an intermediate joint with
the cover sheets omitted from each of the lower and upper arms.
[0013] FIG. 6 is an exploded view of the components of the
intermediate joint shown in FIG. 5.
[0014] FIG. 7 is a perspective cross section of the spacer of the
intermediate joint.
[0015] FIG. 8 is a cross section taken at plane VIII-VIII of FIG.
5.
[0016] FIG. 9 is a detailed side view of an upper joint with the
cover sheet omitted from the upper arm.
[0017] FIG. 10 is an exploded view of the components of the upper
joint shown in FIG. 9.
[0018] FIG. 11 is a detailed view of the spacer of the upper
joint.
[0019] FIG. 12 is a cross section of the upper joint taken at plane
XII-XII of FIG. 9.
[0020] FIG. 13 is a cross section of the head of the lamp taken at
plane XIII-XIII of FIG. 1.
[0021] FIG. 14 is a bottom view of the head of the lamp with the
cover removed.
[0022] FIG. 15 is a top view of the head of the lamp with the cover
sheet omitted, and the housing shown in phantom lines.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0023] Exemplary embodiments of this disclosure are described below
and illustrated in the accompanying figures, in which like numerals
refer to like parts throughout the several views. The embodiments
described provide examples and should not be interpreted as
limiting the scope of the invention. Other embodiments, and
modifications and improvements of the described embodiments, will
occur to those skilled in the art and all such other embodiments,
modifications and improvements are within the scope of the present
invention. Features from one embodiment or aspect may be combined
with features from any other embodiment or aspect in any
appropriate combination. For example, any individual or collective
features of method aspects or embodiments may be applied to
apparatus, product or component aspects or embodiments and vice
versa.
[0024] Turning to FIGS. 1 and 2, a lamp 20 is shown according to
one embodiment. The lamp 20 is shown with a base 22. The base 22
may be configured to rest on a support surface such as a desktop or
the floor. The illustrated embodiment may be commonly referred to
as a task light by one of ordinary skill. In other embodiments, the
base 22 may be configured for mounting to a wall or a vertical
panel, or may comprise a clamp or other more permanent mounting
fastener. In other words, the base 22 may take a large variety of
known configurations. As such, one or more of the novel features of
the present disclosure may be applied to task lights, floor lights,
reading lights, etc.
[0025] The illustrated embodiment of the lamp 20 includes a base
stem 24 having a projection 26. The base stem 24 may be configured
to rotate relative to the base 22. In the illustrated embodiment,
the base stem 24 is configured to rotate about an axis
perpendicular to the support surface on which the base 22 is
configured to rest.
[0026] Staying with FIGS. 1 and 2, a lower arm 28 is attached to
the base stem 24 at a lower joint 30. The lower joint 30 is shown
as a pivot connection between the lower arm 28 and the base stem
24. The pivot axis of the lower joint 30 is shown as generally
perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the base stem 24, such
that the lower arm 28 has a substantial ability to move relative to
the base 22.
[0027] The lamp 20 as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 also includes an upper
arm 32. The upper arm 32 is joined to the lower arm 28 at an
intermediate joint 34. The intermediate joint 34 is configured to
allow relative motion between the lower arm 28 and the upper arm 32
with respect to one or more reference axes. As discussed further
below, the intermediate joint 34 is also configured to allow for
the passage of electrical current from a location upstream (i.e.,
toward the base 22) of the intermediate joint 34 to a location
downstream (i.e., toward a head 36). While the lamp 20 in the
illustrated embodiment includes an upper arm 32 and a lower arm 28,
additional arms, and respective joints, are also contemplated.
Alternatively, embodiments of the lamp 20 may only comprise a
single arm.
[0028] The upper arm 32 supports the head 36 of the lamp 20. The
head 36 may be attached to the upper arm 32 by an upper joint 38.
The upper joint 38 may be configured to allow relative movement
between the head 36 and the upper arm 32 with respect to one or
more reference axes. As discussed further below, the upper joint 38
is also configured to allow for the passage of electrical current
from a location upstream (i.e., toward the base 22) of the upper
joint 38 to a location downstream passed the upper joint 38 and
into the head 36 for powering a primary light source 40 located
within the head.
[0029] Again, the lamp 20 according to the present disclosure is
defined by the claims and not by the illustrated embodiment shown
in FIGS. 1 and 2. The lamp 20 may be a task light as illustrated,
may be a floor lamp with even longer arms, may include only one
arm, or no arms at all. The lamp 20 may rest on a horizontal
surface, be fixed to a vertical surface, or otherwise attach to a
reference point. In its simplest form of a first embodiment, the
lamp 20 includes a head 36 with a primary light source 40. The head
36 is attached to a support 41 that comprises at least one joint,
the upper joint 38 for example. The lamp 20 is wired so that
current passes upstream and downstream of the joint at least when
the primary light source 40 is activated. In its simplest form of a
second embodiment, the head 36 itself incorporates unique function
and structure as discussed below, and the at least one joint may be
optional.
[0030] Turning to FIG. 3, the lower arm 28 is shown in cross
section along the length of the lower arm. The lower arm 28 is
formed primarily of an electrically conductive material, such as
metal. Example materials include aluminum, steel, copper or
conductive carbon or nanocarbon composite material. In one
embodiment, the lower arm 28 is manufactured by casting or additive
manufacturing (3-D printing) to allow the lower arm to be formed
with an inner cavity 42 and side openings 44. Wiring channels 46,
see FIG. 4, are formed along an exterior side of the lower arm 28.
The casting method allows for the lower arm 28 to be formed with an
elongated shape without having a constant profile along its length,
and without significant additional machining steps during
manufacturing. Forming the lower arm 28 by extrusion is also
possible, but requires significant additional machining because the
extrusion process would generate a conduit of constant profile, as
known in the art. Forming the lower arm 28 with one or more side
openings 44 eases assembly of the lamp 20 by allowing access to
components from the side of the lower arm 28 instead of only having
access from the ends of an extruded arm.
[0031] As seen in FIG. 3, the lower arm 28 at least partially
houses a spring counterbalance system 48. The spring counterbalance
system 48 assists with a smooth feel as the user moves the head 36
and arms 28, 32 relative to the base 22, thereby assisting the user
to oppose the force of gravity. The spring counterbalance system 48
includes a lower spring 50 to assist motion at the lower joint 30,
and an upper spring 52 to assist motion at the intermediate joint
34. The lower spring 50 may be fixed at an upper end thereof within
the lower arm 28. A first cable 54 may be attached to a lower end
of the lower spring 50. The first cable 54 may exit the lower arm
28 and be fixed to the projection 26. Thus, the lower spring 50 may
be biased toward a contracted position that occurs when the lower
arm 28 is lifted to be closer to the tip of the projection 26.
[0032] Similarly, the lower end of the upper spring 52 may be fixed
within the lower arm 28. A second cable 56 may be relatively fixed
to the upper arm 32 and pass into the lower arm 28 for attachment
to the upper spring 52. The upper spring 52 is biased toward a
contracted position that occurs when the upper arm 32 is lifted to
be closer to parallel with the lower arm 28. While one embodiment
of the spring counterbalance system 48 has been shown and
described, other spring counterbalance systems are well-known in
the art for assisting with motion of lamp components. One skilled
in the art will appreciate that other spring counterbalance systems
or even other counterbalance systems without springs may be
suitable for use with lamps 20 as described herein.
[0033] The upper arm 32 may also be formed from a cast metal
material to provide electrical conductivity along the upper arm.
The upper arm 32 may also include side openings 44 and at least one
wiring channel 46, as shown in FIG. 5, to facilitate assembly and
wiring of the lamp 20.
[0034] As seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, cover sheets 58 may be attached to
the sides of the lower arm 28 and the upper arm 32 to hide the
sides of each arm and provide a clean finished appearance to the
lamp 20. The cover sheets 58 may be attached by any known method,
including adhesive, friction fit, fasteners, etc. The combination
of the construction of the arms 28, 32, the internal components of
the intermediate and upper joints 34, 38 as discussed below, and
the cover sheets 58 provide the lamp 20 with its clean appearance
with substantially hidden joints. The cover sheets 58 may be
colored to provide a desired overall color scheme, to match other
cover sheets placed atop other lamp elements, such as the base 22
or the head 36.
[0035] Turning to FIGS. 5-8, the intermediate joint 34 is shown in
more detail. The lower arm 28 includes a first bore 60 passing
through the lower arm near an upper end thereof. The upper end of
the lower arm 28 may have a U-shape configured to straddle a
portion of a first spacer 62. The first spacer 62 may be fixed to
and extend from the upper arm 32. As seen in FIGS. 6 and 7, the
first spacer 62 includes a first aperture 64 configured to align
with the first bore 60 of the lower arm 28. In one embodiment, a
torque insert 66 passes through the first bore 60 and the first
aperture 64 to act as a pin connecting the lower arm 28 to the
upper arm 32. The torque insert 66 allows relative rotation between
the arms 28, 32 but includes an internal resistance for prevent
unwanted rotation. As known in the art, torque inserts are designed
to produce a predetermined resistance to rotation. The mechanics
that allow torque inserts to provide resistance are known in the
art. Example torque inserts are able from Leeco of Taiwan or from
Reell of St. Paul, Minn. The torque inserts 66 used in the lamp 20
are configured to allow relative rotation between the arms 28, 32
when manipulated by the user, but are simultaneously configured to
provide sufficient resistant that rotation at the intermediate
joint 34 is not caused by gravity alone. Unwanted movement may be
referred to in the industry as droop. In another embodiment a hinge
(not shown) can be used that does or does not provide integrated
torque resistance. The use of a hinge (defined herein to mean any
component that permits with or without torque at least some
rotational movement between rigid structures such as arms 28, 32),
would permit manipulation by a user. Electrical conductive elements
of the hinge could provide the electrical conductive paths as
described herein. Further, the ability of the arms 28, 32 to remain
in a selected orientation can be provided by using the
counterbalance system 48, or components such as those known in the
art including without limitation a friction hinge such as those
available from GEM Products, Inc., of Orange Park, Fla., a constant
torque hinge, a position hinge, a clutch, a torque hinge, a detent
hinge, or set screws or adjustable protrusions adjacent the hinge
to provide friction retention between arms 28, 32.
[0036] The torque insert 66 is press-fit into a friction fit within
the first bore 60 and the first aperture 64 as may be best
understood from FIG. 8. The circumference of the first bore 60 and
the circumference of the first aperture 64 may be keyed or
otherwise deviate from a circular shape to match the outer
periphery of the torque insert 66. The keyed shape helps to
minimize slip between the torque insert 66 and either the lower arm
28 or the upper arm 32. While not shown, a torque insert 66 may
also be used at the lower joint 30 to selectively allow pivotal
motion between the base stem 24 and the lower arm 28, while
providing resistance to avoid droop.
[0037] The exterior housing 68 of the torque insert 66 is made from
metal or another electrically conductive material, as seen in FIG.
6. The press-fit between the torque insert 66 and at least a
portion of the first bore 60 through the conductive lower arm 28
provides a continuation of a first conductive path from the lower
arm into the exterior housing 68 of the torque insert. The first
conductive path continues from the torque insert 66 into the first
spacer 62 due to the press-fit between the torque insert and the
first aperture 64. The first conductive path is able to continue
because at least a portion of the first spacer 62 extending from
the first aperture 64 is formed from a conductive material, such as
steel or aluminum in one embodiment.
[0038] The first conductive path continues further from the first
spacer 62 to the upper arm 32. As seen in FIG. 5, metal screws 70
simultaneously join the first spacer 62 with the upper arm 32 and
provide contact to continue the conductive path from the first
spacer 62 into the upper arm 32. The first spacer 62 may be joined
to the upper arm 32 with other fasteners. Alternatively, the first
spacer 62 may be integrated with the upper arm 32 in such a manner
that contact between electrically conductive materials
continues.
[0039] To summarize, the first conductive path proceeds from the
lower arm 28 to the upper arm 32 by way of the first spacer 62 and
the torque insert 66. The first conductive path may be
characterized by the use of the upper and lower arms 28, 32
themselves as part of the first conductive path. The first path
does not require, in this embodiment, a wire running from within
the lower arm 28 to within the upper arm 32.
[0040] A second conductive path extends through the intermediate
joint 34 with the use of a first sliding electrical contact 80.
Therefore, the second conductive path, in this embodiment, is also
formed without the need for a wire running from within the lower
arm 28 to within the upper arm 32. The first sliding electrical
contact 80 may be best seen in FIG. 6. The first sliding electrical
contact includes a lower arm lead 82 and a first spacer lead 84.
The lower arm lead 82 may reside within a first lead groove 86
formed in the lower arm 28. The first lead groove 86 may include
the first bore 60 as a portion thereof. The lower arm lead 82 may
be held in position within the first lead groove 86 by an
electrically insulating first cap 88. The lower arm lead 82 may
include a first terminal 90 and a first wave washer 92. The first
wave washer 92 is configured to axially align with the first bore
60 and the first aperture 64. An inner radius of the first wave
washer 92, however, is sufficient to avoid contact with the torque
insert 66. As seen in FIG. 8, a portion of the first cap 88 may
extend radially between the torque insert 66 and the first wave
washer 92 in order to electrically isolate the first wave washer
from the torque insert.
[0041] Maintaining electrical isolation between the first
conductive path and the second conductive path is important to
avoid shorting the circuit created by the lamp 20. As the current
and voltage increase, the potential for arcing of current from one
path to the other increases. To avoid arcing, the separation
distance and/or the robustness of the insulator between the first
and second conductive paths would need to increase. In one
embodiment, the risk of arcing is low through the lamp 20 because
the lamp may operate with low amperage.
[0042] As seen in FIG. 7, the first spacer lead 84 may be
incorporated with the first spacer 62 as a module. To maintain
electrical separation between the first conductive path, which
passes through a body 94 of the first spacer 62, and the second
conductive path, which passes through the first spacer lead 84, an
insulating sheath 96 may be provided. The insulating sheath 96 is
disposed between the body 94 of the first spacer 62 and the first
spacer lead 84. The first spacer lead 84 may include a first
annular contact 98 and a second terminal 100. The first annular
contact 98 is configured to be axially aligned with the first bore
60 and the first aperture 64. The first annular contact 98
continues the second electrical path by contacting at least a
portion of the first wave washer 92 of the lower arm lead 82. The
first annular contact 98 also has an inner radius of sufficient
size to avoid contact with the torque insert 66, and may be
separated from the torque insert by a portion of the first cap 88.
One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that while the
illustrated embodiment has the first wave washer 92 associated with
the lower arm lead 82, the wave washer could instead be associated
with the first spacer lead 84 in place of the first annular contact
98. Alternatively still, the first sliding electrical contact may
have two flat annular contacts and not a portion with a wave
configuration.
[0043] The assembly of the intermediate joint 34 of the illustrated
embodiment is completed by attaching a fastener 102 to the torque
insert 66 as seen in FIG. 8, which in turn presses the first cap 88
toward the first spacer 62 to help ensure a sufficient pressing
contact between the first wave washer 92 and the first annular
contact 98 to extend the second conductive path from the first
terminal 90 located upstream of the pivot point of the intermediate
joint 34 to the second terminal 100 located downstream of the pivot
point. One skilled in the art will appreciate that as the lower arm
28 is rotated relative to the upper arm 32, the first wave washer
92 will rotate with respect to the first annular contact 98 while
maintaining at least one point of contact therewith.
[0044] By designing the intermediate joint 34 to provide the first
and second conductive paths through distinct types of electrical
relay as discussed above, the packaging space and the size of the
torque insert 66 are reduced, allowing for more slender arms 28, 32
and a joint whose components are capable of being packaged within
the width of the respective arm. Alternative constructions that use
a pair of sliding electrical contacts in a single joint, or a
bifurcated arm to conduct both paths therethrough, have been found
to require a greater structure that can degrade the appealing and
elegant nature of the design.
[0045] Turning to FIGS. 9-12, the upper joint 38 is shown in more
detail. The features of the upper joint 38 are similar in many ways
to the intermediate joint 34. A second bore 110 passes through an
upper end of the upper arm 32. At least a portion of the upper arm
32 comprises an electrically conductive material extending
continuously from the first spacer 62 to the second bore 110 such
that the first conductive path extends substantially the entire
length of the upper arm 32, and includes the conductive material of
the upper arm itself. A torque insert 66 having a metal exterior
housing 68 is press-fit into the second bore 110 to continue the
first conductive path in a similar fashion as described with
respect to the intermediate joint 34.
[0046] A second spacer 112, at least partially comprising an
electrically conductive material, is used to connect the upper arm
32 to the head 36 at the upper joint 38. The second spacer 112 is
shown in detail in FIG. 11. The second spacer 112 has a second
aperture 114 to axially align with the second bore 110. The second
spacer 112 is attached to the upper arm 32 by the torque insert 66,
which also provides the continuation of the first conductive path
from the exterior housing 68 into the second spacer 112.
[0047] A second sliding electrical contact 120 is provided for
forming a portion of the second electrical path through the upper
joint 38. Like the first sliding electrical contact 80, the second
sliding electrical contact 120 is at least partially positioned by
a second cap 122 inserted into the second bore 110 and a second
lead groove 124 of the upper arm 32. The second cap 122 positions
and electrically isolates an upper arm lead 126 of the second
sliding electrical contact 120 from the upper arm 32. The upper arm
lead 126 comprises a third terminal 128 and a second wave washer
130 similar to the lower arm lead 82 described above.
[0048] As seen in FIG. 11, the second spacer 112 includes a spacer
lead 132 electrically isolated from the electrically conductive
spacer body 134 of the second spacer by an insulation layer 136.
The spacer lead 132 may include a second annular contact 138 to
align with and contact the second wave washer 130. The spacer lead
132 also includes a fourth terminal (not shown). In the illustrated
embodiment, the second spacer 112 is configured as a conduit with a
passage 140 running longitudinally therein. The spacer lead 132 is
configured such that the fourth terminal resides at least partially
within the passage 140, and is electrically isolated from the
conductive material of the spacer body 134 of the second spacer
112.
[0049] The assembly of the upper joint 38 of the illustrated
embodiment is completed by attaching a fastener 102 to the torque
insert 66 as seen in FIG. 12, which in turn presses the second cap
122 toward the second spacer 112 to help ensure a sufficient
pressing contact between the second wave washer 130 and the second
annular contact 138 to extend the second conductive path from the
third terminal 128 located upstream of the pivot point of the upper
joint 38 to the fourth terminal located downstream of the pivot
point within a passage 140 of the second spacer 112.
[0050] As seen in FIG. 11, the second spacer 112 also includes a
sleeve 142 at least partially surrounding a portion of the second
spacer. The sleeve 142 is formed from an electrical insulator to
prevent the continuation of the first conductive path directly from
the spacer body 134 of the second spacer 112 to the head 36.
Isolating the head 36 from the charged spacer body 134 helps
prevent interference with the electronics within the head 36.
[0051] Having described the mechanical structure of the support 41
of the lamp 20, use of that structure to provide current to the
head 36 can now be more readily understood. The lamp 20 of the
illustrated embodiment is configured to receive power in the form
of AC current commonly available from wall sockets as known in the
art. The lamp 20 has a power cord 150 that terminates at one end
with a two-pronged plug as known in the art. The power cord 150
includes a first hot wire 152 (also known as a positive current
wire) and a first neutral wire 154 (as known as a ground wire or
negative current wire). As seen in FIG. 1, the power cord 150 may
pass into the lower arm 28 through a cord opening 156. The power
cord 150 may then immediately exit the side of the lower arm 28
through a side opening 44 and run along the wiring channel 46 as
shown in FIG. 4.
[0052] Prior to reaching the upper end of the lower arm 28, the
wiring channel 46 may split, and the first hot wire 152 is
separated from the first neutral wire 154. In the illustrated
example, the first neutral wire 154 is then connected into the
first conductive path. For example, the first neutral wire 154 may
be stripped and soldered to a crimp terminal 158 which is in
electrical contact with the electrically conductive material of the
lower arm 28. The lower arm 28 is then electrically charged when
the plug is engaged with a source of current. The first hot wire
152, on the other hand, is feed into connection with the second
conductive path by joining the first hot wire with the first
terminal 90 of the first sliding electrical contact 80. While there
may be some advantages to connecting the first neutral wire 154 to
the first conductive path, the lamp 20 may operate sufficiently if
the first hot wire 152 were connected to the first conductive path
and the first neutral wire was then connected to the second
conductive path.
[0053] Continuing on, the first conductive path passes the
intermediate joint 34 as discussed above, without requiring a wire
passing through the intermediate joint. After passing the
intermediate joint 34, the first conductive path continues on to
the upper joint 38 by way of the conductive material of the upper
arm 32 itself.
[0054] The second conductive path passes the intermediate joint 34
through the first sliding electrical contact 80 as discussed above,
without requiring a wire passing though the intermediate joint. The
second conductive path then comprises a second hot wire 160 run
along the upper arm 32 and connected between the second terminal
100 of the first sliding electrical contact 80 and the third
terminal 128 of the second sliding electrical contact 120.
[0055] Upon arriving at the upper joint 38, the first conductive
path continues from the upper arm 32 to the second spacer 112 via
the exterior housing 68 of the torque insert 66 as discussed above.
The second electrical path passes through the upper joint 38 by way
of the second sliding electrical contact 120 as discussed
above.
[0056] Then, in order to accommodate the input requirements of the
electronics within the head 36, the first and second conductive
paths should be recaptured within a second neutral wire 162 and a
third hot wire 164 respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the
third hot wire 164 connects to the fourth terminal of the second
sliding electrical contact 120 and runs through the passage 140 of
the second spacer 112 into the head 36. Similarly, an additional
terminal 166 receives the first conductive path from the conductive
material of the spacer body 134 and transfers the first conductive
path to the second neutral wire 162, which may also be feed through
the passage 140 and into the head 36.
[0057] Turning to FIGS. 13-15, the head 36 is shown in more detail.
The head 36 comprises a housing 200. The housing 200 at least
partially provides an enclosure and acts as a heat sink for the
primary light source 40. Thus, the housing 200 is preferably made
from a thermally conductive material, such as cast aluminum. The
primary light source 40 may include one or more light emitting
diodes mounted to a circuit board 202 within the housing 200. The
primary light source 40 and the circuit board 202 are then arranged
relative to the housing 200 such that the housing 200 accepts and
dissipates the heat generated by the primary light source. As known
in the art, proper heat sinking of mid and high power light
emitting diodes can increase their usable life.
[0058] The primary light source 40 may also include a reflector 204
and a lens 206 configured to distribute light from the one or more
light emitting diodes into a desired pattern. Light emitted from
the primary light source 40 is generally directed in a first
direction relative to the housing 200. The first direction is often
downward onto a support surface for the lamp 20.
[0059] One or more indicator light sources 208, such as light
emitting diodes, may also be provided within the head 36. In the
illustrated embodiment, the indicator light sources 208 are mounted
to the circuit board 202 to emit light in a second direction,
substantially opposite the first direction. The housing 200 may
include one or more openings 210 aligned with the indicator light
sources 208 to allow light emitted from the indicator light sources
to pass through the housing. An applique 212 may be applied to the
housing 200 over the openings 210 to hide the presence of the
openings when light is not being emitted from the indicator light
sources.
[0060] A cover 214 may be attached to the housing 200 to complete
the enclosure of the circuit board 202 and other driving components
within the head 36.
[0061] The electronics associated with the head 36 of the lamp 20
may optionally include several commonly used elements individually
or in combinations, such as a driver, AC/DC converter,
microprocessor, firmware, etc., as known in the art. The
electronics may also include one or more sensors to facilitate one
or more functions of the lamp. A first sensor may include a
proximity sensor 220. The proximity sensor 220 may operate using
capacitive sensing technology or other close range proximity sensor
technology. The proximity sensor 220 may be mounted to the circuit
board 202. In one embodiment, where the proximity sensor 220 is a
capacitive sensor, the circuit board 202 is electrically connected
to the housing 200 such that the proximity sensor 220 is
electrically connected to the housing 200. When a charge is applied
to the housing 200, substantially the entire housing 200 acts as
part of the proximity sensor 220 to detect an approaching object,
such as a user's hand, as is known in the art.
[0062] As is known in capacitance sensing, the user's hand forms
the second half of a capacitor. As the distance between the hand
and the housing 200 decreases, small changes in capacitance occur
and can be monitored by firmware logic or a microprocessor. The
proximity sensor 220 is preferably configured to detect when the
user's hand, or other body part, is approaching the head 36 of the
lamp 20, without requiring contact. In certain embodiments, the
proximity sensor 220 is a capacitance sensor configured to detect
approaching objections within a distance of 12 inches or less, 6
inches or less, 4 inches or less, or 3 inches or less from the
housing 200 without requiring physical contact between the user and
the housing 200. The sensitivity of the proximity sensor 220 will
vary depending on whether the user approaches the housing 200 with
their entire palm versus the tip of a finger. In other embodiments,
it is possible that the proximity sensor 220 only detects actual
contact between the user and the housing 200.
[0063] The proximity sensor 220 may employ dynamic sensing to avoid
false positives. Specifically, the proximity sensor 220 is
monitored for a change in capacitance, for example, as opposed to a
predetermined threshold capacitance. If monitored for a
predetermined capacitance threshold, other objects in the vicinity
of the head 36 could produce noise that are picked up as half of
the monitored capacitor. For example, a computer display monitor
near the head 36 may create a false positive. To compensate, the
proximity sensor 220 is monitored for a change. Thus the
capacitance level occurring with the computer monitor nearby is
factored out and set as the initial capacitance. Introduction of
the user's hand into range of the proximity sensor 220 than causes
a change in capacitance allowing the lamp 20 to react as discussed
below.
[0064] In one embodiment, the proximity sensor 220 is operably
connected to the indicator light sources 208. Applicant has found
that the indicator light sources 208 should principally remain off
when the lamp 20 is not in-use, as well as when the primary light
source 40 is illuminated. Having the indicator light sources 208
continuously illuminated while the primary light source 40 is on
may be distracting to a user. Thus, when the proximity sensor 220
detects an approaching object, one or more of the indicator light
sources 208 may be triggered to illuminate. The indicator light
sources 208 would extinguish when the user's hand is withdrawn or
after a predetermined period of time, such as five seconds.
[0065] The indicator light sources 208 may serve several purposes.
First, illumination of the indicator light sources 208 provides
visibility of their location through the applique 212. The
indicator light sources 208 may act as a location indicator of a
user interface 222 of the lamp 20. The number or pattern of the
indicator light sources illuminated may provide the user with an
indicator of the operational mode of the lamp 20. Operational modes
may include, "on", "off", various brightnesses, "night mode" to
provide a very dim light only, "demo" mode, or to enable or disable
certain functions of the lamp 20.
[0066] In one embodiment, the primary light source 40 is controlled
through the user interface 222. The user interface 222 may allow
the user to provide commands that turn the primary light source 40
on and off. The user interface 222 may also accept commands to
adjust the intensity of the primary light source 40, such as 100%,
50% and a very dim night mode. In an embodiment, the user interface
222 includes the plurality of indicator light sources 208. The
indicator light sources 208 may be arranged in a linear array as
shown in FIG. 15. The indicator light sources 208 may be driven
such that all of the indicator light sources illuminate when the
primary light source 40 is at full brightness, and successively
fewer of the indicator light sources illuminate as the primary
light source is dimmed.
[0067] The user interface 222 may also include a track pad 224,
exposed through a slot 226 in the housing 200. The track pad 224
may also be described as a touch surface or a slider. The track pad
224 may be part of a capacitance sensor 228 configured to detect
the proximity or contact with a user, and translate the actions of
the user into operational signals for driving the primary light
source 40. Capacitance sensor technology is generally known in the
art and commonly found in user interfaces outside of the lighting
industry, such as touch screen computer displays. As such, one of
ordinary skill in the art will understand that various gestures on
or near the track pad 224 can result in adjustment in the operation
of the primary light source 40. For example, the primary light
source 40 may turn on and off in response to a tap upon the track
pad 224. The primary light source 40 may be controlled to
automatically return to the previous brightness setting. If the
user slides their finger along the track pad 224, the primary light
source 40 may increase or decrease intensity based on the direction
of sliding. A touch of the track pad 224 may also set the
brightness based on the location along the track pad being touched.
A double tap may jump to maximum brightness. In an embodiment, the
capacitance sensor 228 is configured to detect the user's hand or
finger generally when there is contact with the track pad 224 or at
least the portion of the applique 212 directly above the slot
226.
[0068] In addition to the user controlled functions of the lamp 20
discussed above, the head 36 may include a third sensor, such as a
passive infrared sensor 230 configured to automatically control one
or more operations of the lamp 20. In one example, the infrared
sensor 230 is positioned behind a protective cover 232 and is
provided with a wide field of vision. The infrared sensor 230 acts
as a motion detector using infrared beam technology to detect
motion of warm objects, such as humans, based on whether or not the
object has crossed the beams being emitted. In practice, the
infrared sensor 230 is operable to sensor the presence of a user at
their workstation. If the primary light source 40 is illuminated,
and the passive infrared sensor 230 has failed to detect motion for
a predetermined period of time (e.g. 15 minutes), the electronics
within the head 36 may trigger the primary light source 40 to
extinguish. This feature prevents unnecessary or undesired use of
energy. In some embodiments, the primary light source 40 may be
triggered to illuminate, returning to the most recent illumination
mode, when motion is detected by the infrared sensor 230 once
again. When motion returns, the indicator light sources 208 may
also temporarily illuminate to indicator to the user what the most
recent illumination mode was. The user may have the option to
disable and re-enable the infrared sensor 230, for example, by
touching and holding at a portion of the track pad 224. A pattern
of the indicator light sources 208 may flash to indicator when the
operation mode (enabled versus disabled) of the infrared sensor has
occurred. In other embodiments, the infrared sensor 230 may be
disabled in the night mode of the lamp 20, so that the lamp remains
on as a nightlight even after motion in the vicinity has stopped.
Night mode may be achieved by holding the lowest position of the
track pad 224. Again, night mode may be indicated by its own unique
pattern of illuminated indicator light sources 208. In night mode,
the intensity of the indicator light sources 208 may be dimmed, and
the primary light source 40 set to its lowest intensity. The night
mode may be highly applicable to use of the lamp 20 within the
hospitality industry. The lamp may also have a demo mode, in which
the infrared sensor 230 is adjusted to extinguish the primary light
source 40 after only a few seconds of inactivity, instead of
several minutes.
[0069] The present disclosure illustrates and discusses several
embodiments for a lamp 20 with a support 41 having joints 34, 38
that facilitate transmittal of current in a clean and compact form
factor that avoids exposed wires adjacent to the joints and hides
the appearance of a pivot pin. One of ordinary skill in the art
that the current transmitting joints (e.g. intermediate joint 34
and upper joint 38) may be used as part of a mounting or supporting
apparatus for other electronic devices besides lamps. For example,
a support 41 according to the present disclosure may be used to
provide current up to a display or computer monitor. In another
embodiment, instead of task lighting, the head 36 may be designed
as a vanity mirror with illumination.
[0070] The lamp 20 with one or more joints as discussed above may
be summarized in terms of the following paragraphs:
[0071] Paragraph A: A lamp, comprising:
[0072] a head having a light source; and
[0073] at least one support arm supporting the head at a joint, the
joint configured to allow relative motion between the at least one
support arm and the head,
[0074] wherein the joint comprises a sliding electrical contact and
a torque insert, and
[0075] wherein the at least one support arm is electrically
conductive, and a ground wire is grounded to the support arm, which
is in electrical contact with the torque insert.
[0076] Paragraph B: A lamp, comprising:
[0077] a head having a primary light source, the head connected to
a support, the support comprising: [0078] a first support portion
at least partially comprising an electrically conductive material;
[0079] a second support portion at least partially comprising an
electrically conductive material; [0080] a first joint comprising a
torque insert formed with a conductive exterior housing, the first
joint connecting the first support portion to the second support
portion to allow relative movement between the first support
portion and the second support portion;
[0081] wherein the first joint provides two current conducting
paths from the first support portion to the second support
portion,
[0082] wherein the first current conducting path comprises
electrically charging the first support portion, and contact
conduction from the electrically conductive material of the first
support portion to the electrically conductive material of the
second support portion through the exterior housing of the torque
insert, and
[0083] wherein the second current conducting path comprises a
sliding electrical contact electrically isolated from the
conductive material of the first support portion, the conductive
material of the second support portion, and the torque insert.
[0084] A lamp 20 with one or more unique sensor-based functions as
discussed above may be summarized in terms of the following
paragraphs:
[0085] Paragraph C: A lamp, comprising:
[0086] a housing made at least partially from an electrically and
thermally conductive material;
[0087] a primary light source positioned within the housing such
that the housing dissipates heat generated by the primary light
source, the primary light source configured to emit light in a
first direction relative to the housing;
[0088] at least one indicator light source positioned relative to
the housing to emit light in a second direction relative to the
housing, the second direction being substantially opposite the
first direction; and
[0089] a first sensor electrically connected to the housing,
wherein the first sensor is a capacitive proximity sensor that
triggers illumination of the at least one indicator light source
when a user's hand approaches the housing.
[0090] Paragraph D: The lamp according to Paragraph C, wherein the
capacitive proximity sensor uses dynamic sensing to monitor for a
change of capacitance as an object approaches the housing.
[0091] Paragraph E: The lamp according to Paragraph C, further
comprising a second sensor, the second sensor being a capacitive
sensor with a track pad, the track pad arranged adjacent to the at
least one indicator light source and configured to receive commands
to alter operation of the primary light source.
[0092] Paragraph F: The lamp according to Paragraph E, further
comprising a third sensor, the third sensor being a motion sensor,
the motion sensor configured to extinguish the primary light source
when no motion has been detected for a predetermined amount of
time.
[0093] The lamp 20 may be manufactured with a wiring method
described by the following paragraphs as supported by the
discussion above.
[0094] Paragraph G: A method of wiring a lamp, the lamp comprising
a head having a light source and a first support portion, made from
electrically conductive material, movable with respect to a second
support portion made from electrically conductive material, the
method comprising:
[0095] feeding a cord into the first support portion, the cord
comprising a first wire and a second wire;
[0096] electrically connecting the first wire to the first support
portion,
[0097] electrically connecting the first support portion to the
second support portion,
[0098] electrically connecting a third wire from the second support
portion to the light source,
[0099] electrically connecting the second wire to a sliding
electrical contact that is electrically isolated from the
conductive material of the first support portion and the
electrically conductive material of the second support; and
[0100] electrically connecting a fourth wire from the sliding
electrical contact to the light source.
[0101] Paragraph H: The method of Paragraph G, wherein the lamp
further comprises a third support portion disposed between the
first support portion and the second support portion, and the
sliding electrical contact comprises a first sliding electrical
contact and a second sliding electrical contact;
[0102] wherein electrically connecting the first support portion to
the second support portion comprises: [0103] electrically
connecting the first support portion to the third support portion,
and [0104] electrically connecting the third support portion to the
second support portion;
[0105] wherein, electrically connecting the second wire to the
sliding electrical contact comprises connecting the second wire to
the first sliding electrical contact;
[0106] wherein, electrically connecting the fourth wire comprises
electrically connecting the fourth wire to the second sliding
electrical contact; and
[0107] the method further comprises electrically connecting a fifth
wire between the first sliding electrical contact and the second
sliding electrical contact.
[0108] The lamp 20 may be manufactured with a method described by
the following paragraph as supported by the discussion above.
[0109] Paragraph I: A method of making a support for a lamp,
comprising:
[0110] casting at least one support arm from an electrically
conductive material, the at least one support arm being cast such
that the at least one support arm does not have a constant profile
along a length thereof;
[0111] inserting a wire into an inner cavity of the at least one
support arm;
[0112] running a portion of the wire along an exterior of the at
least one support arm;
[0113] attaching a cover sheet to the at least one support arm to
hide the portion of the wire.
[0114] The lamp 20 may be described by the following paragraphs in
means-plus-function format as supported by the discussion
above.
[0115] Paragraph J: A lamp comprising:
[0116] a head having a light source; and
[0117] at least one support arm supporting the head at a joint, the
joint configured to allow relative motion between the at least one
support arm and the head, the joint comprising: [0118] conductive
means for providing a pair of electrically separate current paths
through the joint.
[0119] Paragraph K: The lamp of paragraph J, further comprising an
indicator light source; and sensor means for triggering activation
of the indicator light source.
[0120] Although the above disclosure has been presented in the
context of exemplary embodiments, it is to be understood that
modifications and variations may be utilized without departing from
the spirit and scope of the invention, as those skilled in the art
will readily understand. Such modifications and variations are
considered to be within the purview and scope of the appended
claims and their equivalents.
* * * * *