GB2453096A - Wind up bicycle and camping lanterns - Google Patents

Wind up bicycle and camping lanterns Download PDF

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Publication number
GB2453096A
GB2453096A GB0617427A GB0617427A GB2453096A GB 2453096 A GB2453096 A GB 2453096A GB 0617427 A GB0617427 A GB 0617427A GB 0617427 A GB0617427 A GB 0617427A GB 2453096 A GB2453096 A GB 2453096A
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GB
United Kingdom
Prior art keywords
lantern
housing
lantern according
light source
electrical energy
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
GB0617427A
Other versions
GB0617427D0 (en
Inventor
Anthony Davies
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
TCL Products Ltd
Original Assignee
TCL Products Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by TCL Products Ltd filed Critical TCL Products Ltd
Priority to GB0617427A priority Critical patent/GB2453096A/en
Publication of GB0617427D0 publication Critical patent/GB0617427D0/en
Publication of GB2453096A publication Critical patent/GB2453096A/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21L—LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF, BEING PORTABLE OR SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR TRANSPORTATION
    • F21L13/00—Electric lighting devices with built-in electric generators
    • F21L13/06—Electric lighting devices with built-in electric generators with mechanical drive, e.g. spring
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62J—CYCLE SADDLES OR SEATS; AUXILIARY DEVICES OR ACCESSORIES SPECIALLY ADAPTED TO CYCLES AND NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, e.g. ARTICLE CARRIERS OR CYCLE PROTECTORS
    • B62J6/00—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices on cycles; Mounting or supporting thereof; Circuits therefor
    • B62J6/02—Headlights
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62J—CYCLE SADDLES OR SEATS; AUXILIARY DEVICES OR ACCESSORIES SPECIALLY ADAPTED TO CYCLES AND NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, e.g. ARTICLE CARRIERS OR CYCLE PROTECTORS
    • B62J6/00—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices on cycles; Mounting or supporting thereof; Circuits therefor
    • B62J6/02—Headlights
    • B62J6/028—Headlights specially adapted for rider-propelled cycles with or without additional source of power
    • B62J6/029—Headlights specially adapted for rider-propelled cycles with or without additional source of power characterised by the structure, e.g. casings
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62J—CYCLE SADDLES OR SEATS; AUXILIARY DEVICES OR ACCESSORIES SPECIALLY ADAPTED TO CYCLES AND NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, e.g. ARTICLE CARRIERS OR CYCLE PROTECTORS
    • B62J6/00—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices on cycles; Mounting or supporting thereof; Circuits therefor
    • B62J6/02—Headlights
    • B62J6/028—Headlights specially adapted for rider-propelled cycles with or without additional source of power
    • B62J6/03—Supporting means therefor, e.g. mounting brackets
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21V—FUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF; STRUCTURAL COMBINATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES WITH OTHER ARTICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F21V21/00—Supporting, suspending, or attaching arrangements for lighting devices; Hand grips
    • F21V21/40—Hand grips
    • F21V21/406—Hand grips for portable lighting devices
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21Y—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES F21K, F21L, F21S and F21V, RELATING TO THE FORM OR THE KIND OF THE LIGHT SOURCES OR OF THE COLOUR OF THE LIGHT EMITTED
    • F21Y2101/00—Point-like light sources
    • F21Y2101/02—
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21Y—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES F21K, F21L, F21S and F21V, RELATING TO THE FORM OR THE KIND OF THE LIGHT SOURCES OR OF THE COLOUR OF THE LIGHT EMITTED
    • F21Y2115/00—Light-generating elements of semiconductor light sources
    • F21Y2115/10—Light-emitting diodes [LED]

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Sustainable Development (AREA)
  • Sustainable Energy (AREA)
  • Connection Of Motors, Electrical Generators, Mechanical Devices, And The Like (AREA)

Abstract

A high performance and versatile lantern, for use as a bicycle lamp comprises a housing, a light source, a chargeable battery, an electric generator and a lever wherein, in use, rotation of the lever causes the generator to generate electrical energy which is stored by charging the chargeable battery, and the chargeable battery provides power for the light source. A bracket for secure attachment of the lantern to a handle bar of a bicycle is provided wherein the lantern comprises at least one resilient post that projects from the housing of the lantern and the bracket comprises at least one claw which is complementary with and grips the post. The bracket additionally comprises a collar for sliding over a bicycle handle bar and a threaded bolt for tightening the collar and thereby securing the bracket to a handle bar of a bicycle. A camping lantern is also disclosed.

Description

1 2453096 Lantern The present invention relates to a lantern having a light source, a chargeable battery, an electric generator and a lever. In use, rotation of the lever causes the generator to generate electrical energy which is stored by charging the chargeable battery. The chargeable battery provides power for the light source. In one embodiment, the invention provides a lantern for use as a cycle lamp together with a device for secure attachment of the lantern to a handle bar of a bicycle; and in an alternative embodiment, the invention provides a lantern for use as a camping lantern.
Within the context of this specification the word "comprises" is taken to mean :*::: "includes, among other things". It is not intended to be construed as "consists of
SS
only". * . . S. S S..
S
Conventional lanterns are powered by batteries and they suffer from the disadvantage that typically batteries are not chargeable, and must be discarded after their electric energy has been consumed. Re-chargeable batteries are available, and may be reused a plurality of times. However, typical re-chargeable batteries suffer from the problem that they must be removed from a lantern, and placed into chargers for a long period of time while charging takes place. A disadvantage is that time is wasted while the batteries are removed from the lantern, charged and then replaced because these batteries may not be charged and used immediately. In addition, chargers can be lost or electric power sources for the chargers may be unavailable.
Conventional lanterns for use as a cycle lamps may be used irregularly and during periods of non-use their power source can become discharged. In addition, their power source can be entirely consumed during use. However, replacement batteries may be unavailable and, in view of the weight and bulk of conventional batteries, it is Inconvenient to carry replacement batteries whilst cycling.
A further problem that arises with regard to lanterns for use as cycle lamps is provision of a secure connection between the lantern and the bicycle. During use on a rough surface, the frame and handle bars of a bicycle are generally caused to vibrate and this can cause the connection of a lantern to the handle bars to become loose, thereby causing the lantern to rotate with respect to the handle bars and cast :. a misdirected or ineffective beam of light or to become disconnected. Thus, there is a need for a lantern that provides a focused beam of light, that is disconnectably connectable with a bracket mounted to a bicycle wherein a secure connection can be * a * achieved, and which is provided with a manually operable generator to immediately ***
I
generate electrical energy to energise the lantern and/or to charge batteries.
*I*... * I ** * * * * * S.
Other lanterns, for example camping lanterns are powered by gas, petrol or paraffin, However these power sources are not renewable and they can be dangerous because they are often flammable. Typically lanterns powered by these fuels become hot during use and if their fuel is entirely consumed they must be allowed to cool before refuelling can take place. Furthermore, the required fuel may be unavailable.
Camping lanterns differ from other lanterns in that they should preferably cast a 3600 field of light and they should be stable on an uneven surface.
Thus, there is also a need for a lantern that is stable during use, that provides a wide field of light, and that includes a manually operable generator to immediately generate electrical energy to energise the lantern and/or to charge batteries.
Accordingly, the present invention provides a lantern comprising a housing, a light source, a chargeable battery, an electric generator and a lever wherein, in use, rotation of the lever causes the generator to generate electrical energy which is stored by charging the chargeable battery, and the chargeable battery provides power for the light source.
:. In one embodiment, the invention provides a lantern for use as a cycle lamp :::: together with a bracket for secure attachment of the lantern to a handle bar of a bicycle wherein the lantern comprises at least one resilient post that projects from * * S the housing of the lantern and the bracket comprises at least one claw which is ***
S
complementary with and grips the post, a collar for sliding over a bicycle handle bar S**SSS and a threaded bolt for tightening the collar and thereby securing the bracket to a handle bar of a bicycle.
Preferably, at least two, more preferably two, posts are provided that project from the housing of the lantern. Preferably, the posts are manufactured of steel.
Preferably, the posts comprise a cylindrical body and a head, wherein the head and the body are formed of two cylinders and the radius of the head is greater radius than the radius of the body. Preferably, the body of the post is positioned between the housing of the lantern and the head of the post.
Preferably, the bracket comprises at least two, more preferably two, claws that are complementary with and grip the posts of the housing of the lantern. In use, preferably, each claw at least partially surrounds the body of a post and a friction fit is provided between a claw and the head of a post.
Preferably, the threaded bolt has a first end that projects into a channel defined in the housing of the lantern when the bracket is connected to the lantern. In use, the threaded bolt can be turned by movement of a thumb of an operator. This tightens the bracket and also prevents movement of the lantern with respect to the bracket.
Advantageously, this prevents accidental disconnection of the lantern from the bracket unless the threaded bolt is unscrewed sufficiently to remove its first end from the channel in the housing of the lantern. S... * S S...
Preferably, the channel in the housing of the lantern has a thread complementary * S S with the thread of the threaded bolt. Alternatively, the channel in the housing of the S..
lantern is unthreaded. *... * . S. S * . .
Preferably, a collar is provided for location between a bicycle and the bracket.
Preferably, the collar is of resilient material, e.g. rubber.
Preferably, the bracket can be replaced by a clip for attachment of the lantern to a belt.
Preferably, the lantern comprises a lens that provides a focused beam of light.
Preferably, the light source of the lantern comprises a plurality of LEDs. More preferably, the light source comprises five LEDs. This provides the advantage that minimal energy is used compared to a conventional filament bulb to generate a similar amount of light.
Preferably, the lantern is provided with a switch for switching electrical energy to the light source on or off.
Preferably, electrical circuitry is provided to enable the switch to toggle between turning electrical energy to the light source on, occulting on and off and off. More preferably, the electrical circuitry enables the switch to toggle between turning :. electrical energy to a plurality of LEDs or a single LED. This provides the advantage of consuming minimal energy and increases the time before the battery of the S..
lantern must be recharged. S... * . S S. S
S S..
S
Preferably, the light source includes at least one LED that is "always lit" while *.S...
electrical energy is provided by the lantern's battery. It will be understood that this term is interpreted to mean that the LED generates light of a low light intensity and under typical conditions it may stay lit for at least about one year. This provides the advantage of enabling the lantern to be found easily in low light conditions.
Preferably, the lantern includes a clock. Preferably, the clock is located on the housing of the lantern distal to the post(s). Preferably the clock is a digital clock having a stopwatch function. This is advantageous when the lantern is used as a cycle lamp because a cyclist can use the clock or stopwatch to determine the length of time during which cycling takes place. Preferably, a button, a further light source and electrical circuitry is provided to enable back lighting of the clock at the press of the button so that the clock can be read in low light conditions.
Preferably, the housing of the lantern has a first socket for receiving a plug wired to a second lantern. Advantageously, this enables a second lantern to be powered by the electrical energy source of the first lantern. Preferably, the second lantern has a red lens and advantageously can be used as a rear cycle tamp. Preferably the second lantern has switch and electrical circuitry to enable the switch to toggle between turning electrical energy to the light source on, occulting on and off, and off.
Preferably, the second lantern has a lithium ion battery to provide electrical energy s:: in the event that the wire from the first lantern becomes disconnected.
Advantageously, this provides a back up for safety, and ensures that when the * * S lanterns are used as cycle lamps, the rear lamp stays lit even if the wire from the **. *
first lantern becomes accidentally disconnected.
S
**..*S * * S. S S * S * Preferably, the lithium ion battery in the second lantern is capable of providing at least about one hour of constant light.
Preferably the first socket can receive a plug which may be wired to a mobile telephone or other device so provide electrical energy for charging the mobile telephone or other device. Of course, various connectors can be provided for connection to various types of mobile telephone.
Preferably, the first socket is provided with a resilient flap for reversibly sealing the socket. Advantageously, the flap can prevent ingress of moisture into the housing of the lantern.
Preferably, the housing of the lantern is provided with a second socket for receiving a plug which may be wired to an electrical energy source. Preferably, the second socket is provided with a resilient flap for reversibly sealing the second socket. In addition, preferably, electrical circuitry is provided to enable the electrical energy source to provide energy to the lantern for energising the light source and/or recharging the battery of the lantern.
Preferably, the lantern includes a lever having a first end and a second end.
:: Preferably, the first end is attached to the axle of a generator. Preferably, a grip is S...
fixed to the second end of the lever by an axle and the grip is capable of rotating about the axle. In use, the grip is held in the hand of an operator and facilitates S..
S
rotation of the lever about its first end. S.. * . S. S * S*
* Preferably, a hinge is provided at the first end of the lever. Advantageously, the hinge enables the lever to project from the housing of the lantern for operating the generator and to be folded flat against the housing of the lantern when not in use.
Preferably, the generator is brushless. This provides the advantage that electrical energy is generated by induction. Preferably, magnetic elements are fixed to the axle of the generator and field coils are provided that remain stationary with respect to the housing of the lantern. In addition, preferably, the generator is at least a three phase generator. This provides the advantage that more energy per revolution of the lever is generated compared to a two phase generator.
Preferably, an indicator is provided to indicate when electrical energy is being generated by the generator. Preferably, the indicator comprises a light source, for example an LED, positioned in the housing of the lantern.
In an alternative embodiment, the invention provides a lantern for use in camping having a housing and a light source wherein the housing of the lantern has a planar base, a body having a frusto conical side, a waist and a frusto spherical head, wherein the waist is positioned between the frusto conical side and the frusto spherical head, the radius of the waist being less than the radius of the head and the :.:::: base; and wherein the light source is positioned inside the head of the housing.
Advantageously, it has been found that the housing of the lantern is remarkably S...
stable and a wide field of light can be projected outwardly from the head.
I
*. S.f.
Preferably, the base of the housing defines an orifice and a channel.
Advantageously, the orifice and channel together enable the base to be secured to a fixing, e.g. the head of a nail or screw. Advantageously, this enables the lantern to be hung on a vertical wall.
Preferably, the lantern is provided with a handle. Preferably, the handle comprises an arched member having first and second ends. Preferably, the first and second ends are fixed to the base of the lantern by first and second hinges. Preferably, the first and second hinges are located adjacent the edge of the base and they are diametrically opposed. Preferably, the handle can be moved from a first position folded into a groove in the base to a second position wherein the handle projects from the base. Preferably, the groove in the base is adjacent the edge of the base so that when the handle is folded into the groove, the handle is flush with the base of the lantern. This provides the advantage that the handle can be unfolded from the base to provide a facility to hang the lantern inverted from the handle (for example, from the apex of a tent).
Preferably, the head of the housing comprises a lens that provides a diffused field of light.
Preferably, the light source of the lantern comprises a plurality of LEDs. More preferably, the light source comprises five LEDs. This provides the advantage that minimal energy is used compared to a conventional filament bulb to generate a S...
similar amount of light. I... * . . *..
Preferably, the lantern is provided with a switch for switching electrical energy to the *. *...
light source on or off. Preferably, the switch is positioned in the housing of the lantern adjacent the base.
Preferably, electrical circuitry is provided to enable the switch to toggle between turning electrical energy to the light source on, occulting on and off and off. More preferably, the electrical circuitry enables the switch to toggle between turning electrical energy to a plurality of LEDs or a single LED.
Preferably, the single LED generates light of low intensity for use as a night light and under typical conditions it may stay lit for at least about two days. This provides the advantage of enabling the lantern to be found easily in low light conditions.
For the purposes of clarity and a concise description, features are described herein as part of the same or separate embodiments, however it will be appreciated that the scope of the invention may include embodiments having combinations of all or some of the features described.
Additional features and advantages of the present invention are described in, and will be apparent from, the description of the presently preferred embodiments which are described below with reference to the drawings in which: 0* * * * *.* **** * S S...
Figure 1 shows views of a preferred embodiment of a lantern according to the I...
: present invention. S..
S
*S.SSS Figure 2 shows a view of a preferred embodiment of a bracket according to the invention.
Figure 3 shows a view of a preferred embodiment of a second lantern according to the present invention.
A preferred embodiment of a lantern according to the invention is shown in figure 1.
The lantern 1 comprises a housing 2, a light source 3, a chargeable battery 4, an electric generator 5 and a lever 6 wherein, in use, rotation of the lever 6 causes the generator 5 to generate electrical energy which is stored by charging the chargeable battery 4, and the chargeable battery 4 provides power for the light source 3.
The lantern 1 can be used as a cycle lamp together with a bracket 7 for secure attachment of the lantern 1 to a handle bar of a bicycle wherein the lantern 1 comprises two steel posts 8 that project from the housing 2 of the lantern 1 and the bracket 7 comprises two claws 9 which are complementary with and grip the posts 8. The bracket 7 comprises a collar 10 for sliding over a bicycle handle bar and a threaded bolt 11 for tightening the collar 10 and thereby securing the bracket 7 to a handle bar of a bicycle.
The posts 8 each comprise a cylindrical body 12 and a head 13, wherein the body 12 : . and the head 13 are cylindrical and the radius of the head 13 is of greater radius S... * . * ..
than the radius of the body 12. Preferably, the body 12 of each post 8 is located between the housing 2 of the lantern and the heads 13 of the posts 8. S.. S...
The claws 9 are complementary with and grip the posts 8 of the housing 2 of the lantern 1. In use each claw 9 at least partially surrounds the body 12 of a corresponding post 8 and a friction fit is provided between the claw 9 and the head 13 of the post 8.
The threaded bolt 11 has a first end 14 that projects into a channel 15 defined in the housing 2 of the lantern 1 when the bracket 7 is connected to the lantern 1. In use, the threaded bolt 11 can be turned by movement of a thumb of an operator. The channel 15 defined in the housing 2 of the lantern has a thread complementary with the thread of the threaded bolt 11. Alternatively, the channel 15 in the housing of the lantern is unthreaded.
A collar 16 of resilient material may be provided for location between a bicycle and the bracket.
The bracket 7 can be replaced by a clip for attachment of the lantern I to a belt.
The lantern 1 comprises a lens 17 that provides a focused beam of light.
The light source 3 of the lantern comprises five LEDs.
The lantern 1 is provided with a switch 18 for switching electrical energy to the light source 3 on or off. In addition, electrical circuitry is provided to enable the switch 18 to toggle between turning electrical energy to the light source 3 on, occulting on I..
and off and off. The electrical circuitry also enables the switch 18 to toggle between I.....
turning electrical energy to a plurality of LEDs or a single LED.
The light source 3 includes at least one LED that is "always lit" while electrical energy is provided by the lantern's battery 4.
The lantern 1 includes a digital clock 19 located on the housing 2 of the lantern distal to the posts 8. The clock 19 has a stopwatch function. A button 20, a further light source and electrical circuitry is provided to enable back lighting of the clock 19 at the press of the button 20 so that the clock 19 can be read in low light conditions.
A first socket 21 is provided in the housing 2 of the lantern 1 for receiving a plug wired to a second lantern 22. The second lantern 22 has a red lens 23 and can be used as a rear cycle lamp. The second lantern 22 has switch 24 and electrical circuitry to enable the switch 24 to toggle between turning electrical energy to the light source on, occulting on and off, and off. The second lantern 22 has a lithium ion battery to provide electrical energy in the event that the wire from the first lantern 1 becomes disconnected. The lithium ion battery in the second lantern 22 is capable of providing at least about one hour of constant light.
Alternatively, the first socket 21 can receive a plug which may be wired to a mobile telephone or other device so provide electrical energy for charging the mobile telephone or other device. Various connectors can be provided for connection to S. various types of mobile telephone. The first socket 21 is provided with a resilient flap 25 for reversibly sealing the socket 21. *5* * S S *. S
S 5.
A second socket 26 is provided in the housing 2 of the lantern 1 for receiving a plug
S
S.....
which may be wired to an electrical energy source. In addition, electrical circuitry is provided to enable the electrical energy source to provide energy to the lantern for energising the light source and/or recharging the battery of the lantern.
A lever 6 having a first end 27 and a second end 28 is provided. The first end 27 of the lever 6 is attached to the axle of a brushless three-phase generator and a grip 29 is fixed to the second end 28 of the lever 6 by an axle wherein the grip 29 is capable of rotating relative to the axle. In use, the grip 29 is held in the hand of an operator and facilitates rotation of the lever 6 about its first end 27.
A hinge 30 is provided at the first end 27 of the lever 6. The hinge 30 enables the lever 6 to project from the housing 2 of the lantern 1 in a first position for operating the generator and to be folded flat against the housing 2 of the lantern in a second position when not in use.
Magnetic elements are fixed to the axle of the generator and field coils are provided that remain stationary with respect to the housing 2 of the lantern 1.
An LED indicator 31 is provided to indicate when electrical energy is being generated by the generator.
In an alternative embodiment, the invention provides a lantern for use in camping having a housing and a light source wherein the housing of the lantern has a planar * * *.S.
base, a body having a frusto conical side, a waist and a frusto spherical head, ***i * ** * wherein the waist is positioned between the frusto conical side and the frusto spherical head, the radius of the waist being less than the radius of the head and the
S
base; and wherein the light source is positioned inside the head of the housing.
The base of the housing defines an orifice and a channel and the orifice and channel together enable the base to be secured to a fixing, e.g. the head of a nail or screw.
The lantern is provided with a handle which comprises an arched member having first and second ends. The first and second ends are fixed to the base of the lantern by first and second hinges located diametrically opposed adjacent the edge of the base. The handle can be moved from a first position folded into a groove adjacent the edge of the base wherein the handle is flush with the base to a second position wherein the handle projects from the base to provide a facility to hang the lantern inverted from the handle (for example, from the apex of a tent).
In this embodiment the head of the housing comprises a lens that provides a diffused field of light. The light source of the lantern comprises five LEDs. A switch is provided adjacent the base for switching electrical energy to the light source on or off. In addition, electrical circuitry is provided to enable the switch to toggle between turning electrical energy to the light source on, occulting on and off and off.
More preferably, the electrical circuitry enables the switch to toggle between turning electrical energy to a plurality of LED5 or a single LED.
S * * * ***
***, The single LED generates light of low intensity for use as a night light and under S...
typical conditions it may stay lit for at least about two days. *.*
In this embodiment, the hinge is located in the base of the housing and, in a first *..*..
".: position, the lever is folded into a channel in the base of the housing, and in a second position, the lever projects from the base to enable it to be rotated about the axle of the generator.
It will be appreciated that various changes and modifications of the preferred embodiments will be possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Such changes and modifications fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims (44)

  1. Claims 1. A lantern comprising a housing, a light source, a chargeable battery, an electric generator and a lever wherein, in use, rotation of the lever causes the generator to generate electrical energy which is stored by charging the chargeable battery, and the chargeable battery provides power for the light source.
  2. 2. A lantern according to claim 1 wherein a bracket is provided for secure attachment of the lantern to a handle bar of a bicycle wherein the lantern comprises at least one resilient post that projects from the housing of the * lantern and the bracket comprises at least one claw which is complementary *:::: with and grips the post, a collar for sliding over a bicycle handle bar and a threaded bolt for tightening the collar and thereby securing the bracket to a handle bar of a bicycle.
    *....S * . S. * * . . * ..
  3. 3. A lantern according to claim 2 wherein at least two posts are provided that project from the housing of the lantern wherein the posts comprise a cylindrical body and a head, the body of the post being positioned between the housing of the lantern and the head of the post, the head and the body being formed of two cylinders the radius of the head being greater than the radius of the body.
  4. 4. A lantern according to claim 3 wherein the bracket comprises at least two claws that are complementary with and grip the posts of the housing of the lantern.
  5. 5. A lantern according to any one of claims 2 to 4 wherein the threaded bolt has a first end that projects into a channel defined in the housing or the lever of the lantern when the bracket is connected to the lantern.
  6. 6. A lantern according to claim 5 wherein the channel in the housing or lever of the lantern has a thread complementary with the thread of the threaded bolt.
  7. 7. A lantern according to claim 5 wherein the channel in the housing or lever of the lantern is unthreaded.
  8. 8. A lantern according to any one of claims 2 to 7 wherein a collar is provided for *IS*** location between a bicycle and the bracket. * * S *. *
    *.
  9. 9. A lantern according to any one of claims 2 to 8 wherein the bracket is replaced by a clip for attachment to a belt.
    *..**. * * SS * * * * * S.
  10. 10. A lantern according to any preceding claim comprising a lens that provides a focused beam of light.
  11. 11. A lantern according to any preceding claim wherein the light source of the lantern comprises a plurality of LEDs.
  12. 12. A lantern according to any preceding claim comprising a switch for switching electrical energy to the light source on or off.
  13. 13. A lantern according to claim 12 comprising electrical circuitry to enable the switch to toggle between turning electrical energy to the light source on, occulting on and off and off.
  14. 14. A lantern according to claim 13 wherein the electrical circuitry enables the switch to toggle between turning electrical energy to a plurality of LEDs or a single LED.
  15. 15. A lantern according to any one of claims 11 to 14 wherein the light source includes at least one LED that is "always lit" while electrical energy is provided by the lantern's battery. S... * . S...
  16. 16. A lantern according to any preceding claim comprising a clock. S..
    S
  17. 17. A lantern according to claim 16 wherein the clock is located on the housing of *S*..* * S ** the lantern distal to the post(s).
  18. 18 A lantern according to claim 16 or 17 wherein the clock is a digital clock having a stopwatch function.
  19. 19. A lantern according to any one of claims 16 to 18 comprising a button, a further light source and electrical circuitry to enable back lighting of the clock at the press of the button so that the clock can be read in low light conditions.
  20. 20. A lantern according to any preceding claim wherein the housing of the lantern has a first socket for receiving a plug wired to a second lantern.
  21. 21. A lantern according to claim 20 wherein the second lantern is powered by the electrical energy source of the first lantern.
  22. 22. A lantern according to claim 20 or 21 wherein the second lantern has a red lens.
  23. 23. A lantern according to any one of claims 20 to 22 wherein the second lantern has switch and electrical circuitry to enable the switch to toggle between turning electrical energy to the light source on, occulting on and off, and off. e. * S * S*.
    *.
  24. 24. A lantern according to any one of claims 20 to 23 wherein the second lantern I...
    has a separate battery to provide electrical energy in the event that the wire *. from the first lantern becomes disconnected. *
    S..... * .
    *:*.
  25. 25. A lantern according to claim 20 wherein the first socket can receive a plug which may be wired to a mobile telephone or other device so provide electrical energy for charging the mobile telephone or other device.
  26. 26. A lantern according to any one of claims 20 to 25 wherein the first socket is provided with a resilient flap for reversibly sealing the socket.
  27. 27. A lantern according to any preceding claim wherein the housing of the lantern is provided with a second socket for receiving a plug which may be wired to an electrical energy source.
  28. 28. A lantern according to claim 27 wherein the second socket is provided with a resilient flap for reversibly sealing the socket.
  29. 29. A lantern according to claim 27 or 28 wherein electrical circuitry is provided to enable the electrical energy source to provide energy to the lantern for energising the light source and/or recharging the battery of the lantern.
  30. 30. A lantern according to any preceding claim wherein the lever has a first end and a second end, the first end of the lever being attached to the axle of the generator and the second end of the lever being fixed to a grip, the grip being fixed to the second end of the lever by an axle and being capable of rotating ". about the axle.
    S S S S. S
  31. 31. A lantern according to claim 30 wherein a hinge is provided at the first end of the lever wherein, in a first position the lever projects from the housing of the S..... * .
    lantern for operating the generator and in a second position it is folded flat against the housing of the lantern when not in use.
  32. 32. A lantern according to any preceding claim wherein the generator is three-phase and brushless, wherein magnetic elements are fixed to the axle of the generator and field coils are provided that remain stationary with respect to the housing of the lantern.
  33. 33. A lantern according to any preceding claim wherein an indicator is provided to indicate when electrical energy is being generated by the generator.
  34. 34. A lantern according to claim 33 wherein the indicator is an LED.
  35. 35. A lantern according to any preceding claim for use in camping having a housing and a light source wherein the housing of the lantern has a planar base, a body having a frusto conical side, a waist and a frusto spherical head, wherein the waist is positioned between the frusto conical side and the frusto spherical head, the radius of the waist being less than the radius of the head and the base; and wherein the light source is positioned inside the head of the housing.
  36. 36. A lantern according to claim 35 wherein the base of the housing defines an orifice and a channel. * * * *** * * ****
  37. 37. A lantern according to claim 35 or 36 comprising a handle. *** *
  38. 38. A lantern according to claim 37 wherein the handle comprises an arched ** S... * S
    member having first and second and first and second ends are fixed to the base of the lantern by first and second hinges.
  39. 39. A lantern according to claim 38 wherein the first and second hinges are located adjacent the edge of the base and they are diametrically opposed.
  40. 40. A lantern according to claim 39 wherein the handle can be moved from a first position folded into a groove in the base to a second position wherein the handle projects from the base.
  41. 41. A lantern according to claim 40 wherein the groove in the base is adjacent the edge of the base so that when the handle is folded into the groove, the handle is flush with the base of the lantern.
  42. 42. A lantern according to any one of claims 35 to 41 wherein the head of the housing comprises a lens that provides a diffused field of light.
  43. 43. A lantern according to any one of claims 35 to 42 wherein a switch for switching electrical energy to the light source on or off is positioned in the housing of the lantern adjacent the base. * * * **.
    *.
  44. 44. A lantern substantially as described herein with reference to or as illustrated in S...
    *:::: any of the figures of the accompanying drawings. S.. * .
    S
GB0617427A 2006-09-06 2006-09-06 Wind up bicycle and camping lanterns Withdrawn GB2453096A (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB0617427A GB2453096A (en) 2006-09-06 2006-09-06 Wind up bicycle and camping lanterns

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB0617427A GB2453096A (en) 2006-09-06 2006-09-06 Wind up bicycle and camping lanterns

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
GB0617427D0 GB0617427D0 (en) 2006-10-18
GB2453096A true GB2453096A (en) 2009-04-01

Family

ID=37232366

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
GB0617427A Withdrawn GB2453096A (en) 2006-09-06 2006-09-06 Wind up bicycle and camping lanterns

Country Status (1)

Country Link
GB (1) GB2453096A (en)

Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2380540A (en) * 2001-10-03 2003-04-09 Freeplay Market Dev Ltd Manually Powered Flashlight with Control Circuitry
GB2408317A (en) * 2003-11-20 2005-05-25 Wen Sung Lee Wind-up torch
US20060098426A1 (en) * 2004-11-09 2006-05-11 Jen-Yen Yen Emergency light set
US20060245182A1 (en) * 2005-04-28 2006-11-02 Lee Wen S Hand operated flashlight

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2380540A (en) * 2001-10-03 2003-04-09 Freeplay Market Dev Ltd Manually Powered Flashlight with Control Circuitry
GB2408317A (en) * 2003-11-20 2005-05-25 Wen Sung Lee Wind-up torch
US20060098426A1 (en) * 2004-11-09 2006-05-11 Jen-Yen Yen Emergency light set
US20060245182A1 (en) * 2005-04-28 2006-11-02 Lee Wen S Hand operated flashlight

Non-Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
"Benex Wind-Up Front Light" [online], Wiggle. Available from: http://www.wiggle.co.uk/ProductDetail.aspx?Cat=cycle&ProdID=5360026579&n=Benex%20Wind-Up%20Front%20Light [Accessed 20 December 2007] *
"LED wind up bicycle light" [online], Amazon. Available from: http://www.amazon.co.uk/LED-wind-up-bicycle-light/dp/B000ME4ICK [Accessed 20 December 2007] *
"Micro Bike Wind Up Front and Rear Torch Set" [online], Wow-Wow. Available from: http://www.wow-wow.co.uk/shop/gifts-gadgets-and-toys/wind-up/micro-bike-wind-up-front-and-rear-torch-set.htma [Accessed 20 December 2007] *
"Wind up bicycle light" [online], Solarcosa. Available from: http://www.solarcosa.com/Shop/Wind_up_bicycle_light.cfm?partner_id=gg [Accessed 20 December 2007] *

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