CA2241044C - Sealed solar-powered light assembly - Google Patents
Sealed solar-powered light assembly Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2241044C CA2241044C CA002241044A CA2241044A CA2241044C CA 2241044 C CA2241044 C CA 2241044C CA 002241044 A CA002241044 A CA 002241044A CA 2241044 A CA2241044 A CA 2241044A CA 2241044 C CA2241044 C CA 2241044C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- light assembly
- battery
- light
- powered
- led
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Fee Related
Links
Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F21—LIGHTING
- F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
- F21S9/00—Lighting devices with a built-in power supply; Systems employing lighting devices with a built-in power supply
- F21S9/02—Lighting devices with a built-in power supply; Systems employing lighting devices with a built-in power supply the power supply being a battery or accumulator
- F21S9/03—Lighting devices with a built-in power supply; Systems employing lighting devices with a built-in power supply the power supply being a battery or accumulator rechargeable by exposure to light
- F21S9/037—Lighting devices with a built-in power supply; Systems employing lighting devices with a built-in power supply the power supply being a battery or accumulator rechargeable by exposure to light the solar unit and the lighting unit being located within or on the same housing
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
- H05B47/00—Circuit arrangements for operating light sources in general, i.e. where the type of light source is not relevant
- H05B47/10—Controlling the light source
- H05B47/155—Coordinated control of two or more light sources
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
- H05B47/00—Circuit arrangements for operating light sources in general, i.e. where the type of light source is not relevant
- H05B47/10—Controlling the light source
- H05B47/16—Controlling the light source by timing means
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
- H05B47/00—Circuit arrangements for operating light sources in general, i.e. where the type of light source is not relevant
- H05B47/10—Controlling the light source
- H05B47/175—Controlling the light source by remote control
- H05B47/19—Controlling the light source by remote control via wireless transmission
- H05B47/195—Controlling the light source by remote control via wireless transmission the transmission using visible or infrared light
-
- 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
- F21V15/00—Protecting lighting devices from damage
-
- 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
- F21V15/00—Protecting lighting devices from damage
- F21V15/005—Measures against vandalism, stealing or tampering
-
- 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
- F21V23/00—Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices
- F21V23/04—Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being switches
- F21V23/0442—Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being switches activated by means of a sensor, e.g. motion or photodetectors
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
- H05B47/00—Circuit arrangements for operating light sources in general, i.e. where the type of light source is not relevant
- H05B47/10—Controlling the light source
- H05B47/105—Controlling the light source in response to determined parameters
- H05B47/11—Controlling the light source in response to determined parameters by determining the brightness or colour temperature of ambient light
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02B—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO BUILDINGS, e.g. HOUSING, HOUSE APPLIANCES OR RELATED END-USER APPLICATIONS
- Y02B20/00—Energy efficient lighting technologies, e.g. halogen lamps or gas discharge lamps
- Y02B20/40—Control techniques providing energy savings, e.g. smart controller or presence detection
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10S362/00—Illumination
- Y10S362/80—Light emitting diode
Abstract
A solar-powered light assembly is sealed and has a battery integral therewith, thus does not require servicing and is not prone to vandalism. The light assembly comprises at least one light-emitting diode (LED) powered by a rechargeable battery integral with the assembly. A solar panel on the assembly recharges the battery, and power management circuitry activates the LED at low ambient light intensities to prevent excessive changing of the battery and to prevent excessive discharge of the battery when it is low.
Description
SEALED ~~OLAR-POWERED LIGHT ASSEMBLY
The present invention relates to a utilized solar-powered light which is sealed and has a battery integral to the light assembly, thus does not require servicing and is not prone to vandalism.
Utilized solar lights have been developed for marker lighting. Examples are shown in U.S. Patents 5,065,291 and 5, 211, 470 . These 7_ights are self contained but they are not sealed. =:n parl~ this is because the batteries require servicing or repla~~ing, thus the lights cannot be used where the assembly must be able to withstand submersion and they are also prone to vandalism and abuse.
In our related PCT International patent application No. PCT/CA96/00525 there is described a sealed and potted light assembly wherein the energy storage device is a capacitor. Capacitors provide exceptional robustness and are well suited to being completely potted. However, they lack the energy density of batteries with the result that capacitor light assemblies do not produce sufficient light for many applications.
The present invention provides a brighter light than that discloseclin related PCT International application No.
PCT/CA96/00525. A completely sealed solar-powered light assembly that has a rechargeable battery integral with the assembly for energy storage is provided. The light
The present invention relates to a utilized solar-powered light which is sealed and has a battery integral to the light assembly, thus does not require servicing and is not prone to vandalism.
Utilized solar lights have been developed for marker lighting. Examples are shown in U.S. Patents 5,065,291 and 5, 211, 470 . These 7_ights are self contained but they are not sealed. =:n parl~ this is because the batteries require servicing or repla~~ing, thus the lights cannot be used where the assembly must be able to withstand submersion and they are also prone to vandalism and abuse.
In our related PCT International patent application No. PCT/CA96/00525 there is described a sealed and potted light assembly wherein the energy storage device is a capacitor. Capacitors provide exceptional robustness and are well suited to being completely potted. However, they lack the energy density of batteries with the result that capacitor light assemblies do not produce sufficient light for many applications.
The present invention provides a brighter light than that discloseclin related PCT International application No.
PCT/CA96/00525. A completely sealed solar-powered light assembly that has a rechargeable battery integral with the assembly for energy storage is provided. The light
- 2 -assembly is ideal for permanent hazard lighting and can withstand repeated blows by a hammer. The light assembly can be submerged in sea water and cannot easily be removed by vandals when affixed with theft proof screws. The light assembly does not require service and is designed to have an expected 7_ife of between five to ten years. A low battery shutoff=f is provided to prevent excessive discharge of the battery. An input regulator to prevent battery overcharging is provided in a power management circuit and in a preferred embodiment the circuit provides pulsing to minimize current draw of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) which provide the 1=Lght source.
In another embodiment the light assembly has a micro-processor and infrared detector built into the power management circuit that permits the flash rate of the light assembly and/or the light intensity to be changed by remote control. Furthermore, the infrared detector can also be used to activate or deactivate the light assembly.
In a further embodiment magnetic reed switches are provided that can be activated by magnets applied to the exterior of the light assembly to change the flash rate,
In another embodiment the light assembly has a micro-processor and infrared detector built into the power management circuit that permits the flash rate of the light assembly and/or the light intensity to be changed by remote control. Furthermore, the infrared detector can also be used to activate or deactivate the light assembly.
In a further embodiment magnetic reed switches are provided that can be activated by magnets applied to the exterior of the light assembly to change the flash rate,
- 3 -change the light intensity or deactivate the light assembly.
In a still further embodiment, the light assembly is housed in a polycarbonate lens with a solar panel potted on the top of the lens. The battery is potted in the base of the lens and the LED light sources and electronics are potted inside the assembly. For some battery types regulations require that a vent be provided to ensure that an explosion cannot occur in the event of battery over heating. Thus, a small one-way valve is built into the base of the light assembly to accommodate this requirement without compromising the integrity of the light.
The present invention provides a sealed solar-powered light assembly comprising at least one light-emitting diode (LED) powered by a rechargeable non-replaceable battery integral to the assembly, a solar panel on the assembly to recharge the battery, power management circuitry to activate the light-emitting diode at low ambient light intensities, to prevent excessive charging of the battery and to prevent excessive discharge of the battery when the battery is low, and the assembly permanently sealed using a potted construction.
In drawings which illustrate embodiments of the present invention,
In a still further embodiment, the light assembly is housed in a polycarbonate lens with a solar panel potted on the top of the lens. The battery is potted in the base of the lens and the LED light sources and electronics are potted inside the assembly. For some battery types regulations require that a vent be provided to ensure that an explosion cannot occur in the event of battery over heating. Thus, a small one-way valve is built into the base of the light assembly to accommodate this requirement without compromising the integrity of the light.
The present invention provides a sealed solar-powered light assembly comprising at least one light-emitting diode (LED) powered by a rechargeable non-replaceable battery integral to the assembly, a solar panel on the assembly to recharge the battery, power management circuitry to activate the light-emitting diode at low ambient light intensities, to prevent excessive charging of the battery and to prevent excessive discharge of the battery when the battery is low, and the assembly permanently sealed using a potted construction.
In drawings which illustrate embodiments of the present invention,
- 4 -Figure 1 is a side view showing a light assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention, Figure 2 is a top view showing the light assembly of Figure 1, Figure 3 is a circuit diagram for a light assembly according to one embodiment of the present invention, Figure 4 is a schematic circuit diagram for a light assembly according to a further embodiment of the present invention.
A sealed solar-powered light assembly 10 is shown in Figures 1 and 2 which has a polycarbonate lens 12 molded integral with a base 14 and a top 16. A solar panel 18 is potted on the top 16 as shown in Figure 2. Attachment holes 20 are provided in the base 14 so that the assembly can be attached to a frame or base with theft proof screws or other attachments as required.
Inside the assembly are shown light-emitting diodes (LEDs) 22 connected to a circuit board 24, having the power management circuitry for the unit, which in turn is mounted above a battery 26. The battery is sealed within the lens and potted to the base, thus an integral assembly is formed which cannot have components removed.
Maintenance on the light assembly is nil. If it does not
A sealed solar-powered light assembly 10 is shown in Figures 1 and 2 which has a polycarbonate lens 12 molded integral with a base 14 and a top 16. A solar panel 18 is potted on the top 16 as shown in Figure 2. Attachment holes 20 are provided in the base 14 so that the assembly can be attached to a frame or base with theft proof screws or other attachments as required.
Inside the assembly are shown light-emitting diodes (LEDs) 22 connected to a circuit board 24, having the power management circuitry for the unit, which in turn is mounted above a battery 26. The battery is sealed within the lens and potted to the base, thus an integral assembly is formed which cannot have components removed.
Maintenance on the light assembly is nil. If it does not
- 5 -operate, then it has to be replaced, which avoids the necessity of servicing the light assembly units and also makes the units substantially vandal proof.
A one-way valve 28 is shown in the base 14 for a vent connecting inside the lens 12 so that gas from the battery 26 can escape should the battery over heat.
Because the valve 28 is a one-way valve, it does not permit exterior air or water to enter the light assembly.
An infrared (IR) sensor 30 is shown within the lens and may be activated by a remote IR signal to activate or deactivate the light assembly, to vary the intensity of light or, alternatively, to vary the pulse sequence of the light.
In another embodiment there is also shown a reed switch 32 embedded in the base 14 with a magnet 34 in an external pocket. A plurality of reed switches 32 and magnets 34 may be provided to perform the same function as the IR sensor 30. By removing one magnet from the external pocket in the base 14 of the light assembly one may either activate the light or, for different reed switches, change the pulse sequence or the intensity of the light. The magnets fit in external pockets in the base 14 with the result that the light assembly remains integral and sealed; there is no need to have any outside electrical switches or contacts for the unit. Although
A one-way valve 28 is shown in the base 14 for a vent connecting inside the lens 12 so that gas from the battery 26 can escape should the battery over heat.
Because the valve 28 is a one-way valve, it does not permit exterior air or water to enter the light assembly.
An infrared (IR) sensor 30 is shown within the lens and may be activated by a remote IR signal to activate or deactivate the light assembly, to vary the intensity of light or, alternatively, to vary the pulse sequence of the light.
In another embodiment there is also shown a reed switch 32 embedded in the base 14 with a magnet 34 in an external pocket. A plurality of reed switches 32 and magnets 34 may be provided to perform the same function as the IR sensor 30. By removing one magnet from the external pocket in the base 14 of the light assembly one may either activate the light or, for different reed switches, change the pulse sequence or the intensity of the light. The magnets fit in external pockets in the base 14 with the result that the light assembly remains integral and sealed; there is no need to have any outside electrical switches or contacts for the unit. Although
- 6 -Figure 2 shows both an IR sensor 30 and a reed switch 32, in practice only one or the other is used to control light functions.
One embodiment of a power management circuitry for the light assembly is shown in Figure 3 in which the solar panel 18 charges the battery 26 which in turn provides power to eight LEDs 22. The number of LEDs may be varied depending upon the size of the light assembly.
Different light assemblies may be made for different applications.
An input regulator 40 is included in the power management circuitry 24 to monitor the battery and prevent excessive charging of the battery. Also, a low battery disconnect 42 in the power management circuitry 24 is provided to prevent excessive discharge from the battery 26 to the LEDs 22 when the battery is low. The low battery disconnect 42 disconnects the battery 26 and thus turns off the LEDs 22.
Two timers 44 and 46 are provided in the circuitry 24 to work together to control the pulse sequence of the LEDs. By utilizing two timers 44,46 more complex patterns of pulsing may be provided for navigational lights and other applications. Whereas two timers are shown herein, one timer or more than two timers may also be provided depending upon the particular application.
_ 7 _ By pulsing power from the battery 26 to the LEDs, one reduces the power consumption required, thus extending the battery life.
The circuitry shown in Figure 3 includes fixed resistors and does not have any remote system for changing the pulse sequence of the LEDs or the intensity of the LEDs. Similarly, a fixed resistor RA is shown in the LED array circuit. By having a variable resistor or a series of resistors the light intensity from the LEDs may be varied.
Figure 4 shows a schematic circuit diagram for a light assembly according to the present invention wherein the power management circuitry 24 includes a micro-processor 50 and is provided with a number of operational features for varying operating parameters of the light assembly. In Figure 3 the timers are controlled by fixed resistors, thus the time is set. However, by utilizing the micro-processor 50 and an infrared sensor 30, one is able to provide signals to change the resistors to vary the timers and thus change the pulse sequence of the LEDs 22. Whereas an infrared sensor 30 is shown in the circuit, it will be apparent that this may be replaced by reed switches 32 and magnets 34 to perform the same function. As shown in Figure 4, a series of switches S1 to S8 control solar panel voltage, battery voltage and solar regulator voltage. This last regulator turns on _ g _ the light at the end of daytime or when the ambient light intensity drops below a predetermined value.
The solar panel 18 in one embodiment consists of an array of photovoltaic cells configured in a series or parallel combination to provide sufficient voltage and current to charge the battery 26. The battery preferably has more than one cell although in some circumstances a single cell suffices.
The input regulator 40 consists of voltage detection circuit with an analog to digital converter and/or one or more voltage comparators. This section is used to detect the voltage level produced by the solar panel which indicates light level and battery charging capability, and the voltage level on the battery which indicates state of charge. This section consists of resistors R1-R7, SWl-SW5, A1, A2, REF1 and C1 shown in Figure 3.
R1, R2 and R3 form a voltage divider from the solar panel which in conjunction with the voltage reference REFl and op amp A1 produce the signal LOW LIGHT DETECT or LIGHT DETECT that goes into~the micro-controller U1 and can be used to indicate daylight and/or dark conditions.
A2, SW4, SW5, C1 and R7 are configured as an analog to digital converter (ADC) which is controlled by the micro-controller U1 via the signals ADC CONTROL 1 and ADC
_ g _ CONTROL 2. The output of the ADC is detected by U1 via the signal VOLTAGE SENSE. The inputs to the ADC are the signals SOLAR PANEL VOLTAGE, BATTERY DETECT and V REF and are controlled by switches SW1, SW2 and SW3 which are in turn controlled by the micro-controller U1 via the signals SOLAR PANEL SWITCH, BATTERY SWITCH and V REF
SWITCH.
The low battery disconnect 42 consists of a battery overcharging protection circuit with a switch or regulator that prevents the battery from being over-charged. As shown in Figure 3, this consists of the FET
Ql which is configured as a switch used to disconnect the battery 26 from the solar panel 18 and is controlled by the micro-controller U1 via'the BATTERY CHARGE CUT OFF or CUT OFF SWITCH signal.
Various changes may be made to the embodiments shown herein without departing from the scope of the present invention which is limited only by the following claims.
One embodiment of a power management circuitry for the light assembly is shown in Figure 3 in which the solar panel 18 charges the battery 26 which in turn provides power to eight LEDs 22. The number of LEDs may be varied depending upon the size of the light assembly.
Different light assemblies may be made for different applications.
An input regulator 40 is included in the power management circuitry 24 to monitor the battery and prevent excessive charging of the battery. Also, a low battery disconnect 42 in the power management circuitry 24 is provided to prevent excessive discharge from the battery 26 to the LEDs 22 when the battery is low. The low battery disconnect 42 disconnects the battery 26 and thus turns off the LEDs 22.
Two timers 44 and 46 are provided in the circuitry 24 to work together to control the pulse sequence of the LEDs. By utilizing two timers 44,46 more complex patterns of pulsing may be provided for navigational lights and other applications. Whereas two timers are shown herein, one timer or more than two timers may also be provided depending upon the particular application.
_ 7 _ By pulsing power from the battery 26 to the LEDs, one reduces the power consumption required, thus extending the battery life.
The circuitry shown in Figure 3 includes fixed resistors and does not have any remote system for changing the pulse sequence of the LEDs or the intensity of the LEDs. Similarly, a fixed resistor RA is shown in the LED array circuit. By having a variable resistor or a series of resistors the light intensity from the LEDs may be varied.
Figure 4 shows a schematic circuit diagram for a light assembly according to the present invention wherein the power management circuitry 24 includes a micro-processor 50 and is provided with a number of operational features for varying operating parameters of the light assembly. In Figure 3 the timers are controlled by fixed resistors, thus the time is set. However, by utilizing the micro-processor 50 and an infrared sensor 30, one is able to provide signals to change the resistors to vary the timers and thus change the pulse sequence of the LEDs 22. Whereas an infrared sensor 30 is shown in the circuit, it will be apparent that this may be replaced by reed switches 32 and magnets 34 to perform the same function. As shown in Figure 4, a series of switches S1 to S8 control solar panel voltage, battery voltage and solar regulator voltage. This last regulator turns on _ g _ the light at the end of daytime or when the ambient light intensity drops below a predetermined value.
The solar panel 18 in one embodiment consists of an array of photovoltaic cells configured in a series or parallel combination to provide sufficient voltage and current to charge the battery 26. The battery preferably has more than one cell although in some circumstances a single cell suffices.
The input regulator 40 consists of voltage detection circuit with an analog to digital converter and/or one or more voltage comparators. This section is used to detect the voltage level produced by the solar panel which indicates light level and battery charging capability, and the voltage level on the battery which indicates state of charge. This section consists of resistors R1-R7, SWl-SW5, A1, A2, REF1 and C1 shown in Figure 3.
R1, R2 and R3 form a voltage divider from the solar panel which in conjunction with the voltage reference REFl and op amp A1 produce the signal LOW LIGHT DETECT or LIGHT DETECT that goes into~the micro-controller U1 and can be used to indicate daylight and/or dark conditions.
A2, SW4, SW5, C1 and R7 are configured as an analog to digital converter (ADC) which is controlled by the micro-controller U1 via the signals ADC CONTROL 1 and ADC
_ g _ CONTROL 2. The output of the ADC is detected by U1 via the signal VOLTAGE SENSE. The inputs to the ADC are the signals SOLAR PANEL VOLTAGE, BATTERY DETECT and V REF and are controlled by switches SW1, SW2 and SW3 which are in turn controlled by the micro-controller U1 via the signals SOLAR PANEL SWITCH, BATTERY SWITCH and V REF
SWITCH.
The low battery disconnect 42 consists of a battery overcharging protection circuit with a switch or regulator that prevents the battery from being over-charged. As shown in Figure 3, this consists of the FET
Ql which is configured as a switch used to disconnect the battery 26 from the solar panel 18 and is controlled by the micro-controller U1 via'the BATTERY CHARGE CUT OFF or CUT OFF SWITCH signal.
Various changes may be made to the embodiments shown herein without departing from the scope of the present invention which is limited only by the following claims.
Claims (11)
1. A sealed solar-powered light assembly comprising:
at least one light-emitting diode (LED) powered by a rechargeable non-replaceable battery integral to the assembly;
a solar panel on the assembly to recharge the battery;
power management circuitry to activate the light-emitting diode at low ambient light intensities, to prevent excessive charging of the battery and to prevent excessive discharge of the battery when the battery is low, and the assembly permanently sealed using a potted construction.
at least one light-emitting diode (LED) powered by a rechargeable non-replaceable battery integral to the assembly;
a solar panel on the assembly to recharge the battery;
power management circuitry to activate the light-emitting diode at low ambient light intensities, to prevent excessive charging of the battery and to prevent excessive discharge of the battery when the battery is low, and the assembly permanently sealed using a potted construction.
2. The sealed solar-powered light assembly according to claim 1 wherein the assembly is an integral sealed potted light assembly with a lens containing the LED, the solar panel potted on top of the lens, and the battery and power management circuitry potted in the light assembly.
3. The sealed solar-powered light assembly according to claim 1 wherein the power management circuitry includes pulsing circuitry to pulse the LED and minimize current drawn by the LED.
4. The sealed solar-powered light assembly according to claim 3 wherein the pulsing circuitry includes timers with resistors to control pulse sequence of the LED.
5. The sealed solar-powered light assembly according to claim 4 wherein the power management circuitry includes a micro-processor and an infrared sensor is provided in the light assembly to remotely change the pulse sequence of the LED.
6. The sealed solar-powered light assembly according to claim 3 wherein the power management circuitry includes a micro-processor and an infrared sensor is provided in the light assembly to remotely change the LED light intensity.
7. The sealed solar-powered light assembly according to claim 3 wherein the power management circuitry includes a micro-processor and an infrared sensor is provided in the light assembly to remotely activate and deactivate the light assembly.
8. The sealed solar-powered light assembly according to claim 4 wherein the power management circuitry includes a micro-processor and at least one magnetic reed switch is provided in the light assembly activated by a permanent magnet outside the light assembly to change the pulse sequence of the LED without compromising the integrity of the light assembly.
9. The sealed solar-powered light assembly according to claim 4 wherein the power management circuitry includes a micro-processor and at least one magnetic reed switch is provided in the light assembly to change the intensity of the LED without compromising the integrity of the light assembly.
10. The sealed solar-powered light assembly according to claim 4 wherein the power management circuitry includes a micro-processor and at least one magnetic reed switch is provided in the light assembly to activate or deactivate the light assembly without compromising the integrity of the light assembly.
11. The sealed solar-powered light assembly according to claim 2 including a one-way valve in the base of the light assembly to permit gas to escape from the light assembly should the rechargeable battery over heat.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US09/065,382 | 1998-04-23 | ||
US09/065,382 US6013985A (en) | 1998-04-23 | 1998-04-23 | Sealed solar-powered light assembly |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
CA2241044A1 CA2241044A1 (en) | 1999-10-23 |
CA2241044C true CA2241044C (en) | 2002-04-09 |
Family
ID=22062334
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
CA002241044A Expired - Fee Related CA2241044C (en) | 1998-04-23 | 1998-06-18 | Sealed solar-powered light assembly |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US6013985A (en) |
CA (1) | CA2241044C (en) |
Families Citing this family (116)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6965196B2 (en) * | 1997-08-04 | 2005-11-15 | Lumimove, Inc. | Electroluminescent sign |
US6573659B2 (en) | 2000-03-31 | 2003-06-03 | Carmanah Technologies, Inc. | Solar-powered light assembly with automatic light control |
US20010042329A1 (en) * | 2000-04-13 | 2001-11-22 | Matthew Murasko | Electroluminescent sign |
US7503669B2 (en) * | 2000-05-08 | 2009-03-17 | Farlight, Llc | Portable luminaire |
US6543911B1 (en) * | 2000-05-08 | 2003-04-08 | Farlight Llc | Highly efficient luminaire having optical transformer providing precalculated angular intensity distribution and method therefore |
US8360615B2 (en) * | 2000-05-08 | 2013-01-29 | Farlight, Llc | LED light module for omnidirectional luminaire |
DE20008289U1 (en) * | 2000-05-09 | 2000-08-10 | Wobben Aloys | Flight lighting device on wind turbines |
US6517217B1 (en) * | 2000-09-18 | 2003-02-11 | Hwa Hsia Glass Co., Ltd. | Ornamental solar lamp assembly |
US20020159246A1 (en) * | 2001-03-21 | 2002-10-31 | Matthew Murasko | Illuminated display system |
US7048400B2 (en) * | 2001-03-22 | 2006-05-23 | Lumimove, Inc. | Integrated illumination system |
JP4354185B2 (en) * | 2001-03-22 | 2009-10-28 | ルミムーブ, インコーポレイテッド | Illuminated display system and process |
US6752515B2 (en) * | 2001-04-16 | 2004-06-22 | Cyberlux Corporation | Apparatus and methods for providing emergency lighting |
AU2002308468A1 (en) * | 2001-04-23 | 2002-11-05 | Carmanah Technologies Inc. | Potted domed solar panel capsule and traffic warning lamps incorporating same |
AU2002345988A1 (en) * | 2001-06-27 | 2003-03-03 | Lumimove, Inc. | Electroluminescent panel having controllable transparency |
US7242313B2 (en) * | 2001-07-26 | 2007-07-10 | Harwood Ronald P | System for providing pathway indications through unlit areas |
US6778093B2 (en) * | 2001-07-26 | 2004-08-17 | Ronald P. Harwood | System for providing pathway indications through unit areas |
AUPR725301A0 (en) * | 2001-08-24 | 2001-09-20 | Jones, Darryl John | Lighting apparatus |
US20050247920A1 (en) * | 2001-10-10 | 2005-11-10 | Burkart Michael G | Solar post attachment and method of use |
US6593701B1 (en) * | 2002-04-23 | 2003-07-15 | Chin-Mu Hsieh | Decorative lamp |
US6918213B2 (en) * | 2002-04-29 | 2005-07-19 | Stallion Fence Accessories | Plastic pergola end caps of extended length |
US6685334B2 (en) | 2002-04-30 | 2004-02-03 | G-5 Electronics | System and method of power management for a solar powered device |
US7167103B2 (en) * | 2002-06-13 | 2007-01-23 | Warren Bradford S | Transport node apparatus |
AU2003269649A1 (en) * | 2002-09-24 | 2004-04-19 | Carmanah Technologies Corporation | Solar-powered bus stop |
US7111961B2 (en) * | 2002-11-19 | 2006-09-26 | Automatic Power, Inc. | High flux LED lighting device |
AU2003901027A0 (en) * | 2003-03-07 | 2003-03-20 | Integrated Electronic Solutions Pty Ltd | Circuit improvements for solar lamps |
US7396141B2 (en) * | 2003-03-25 | 2008-07-08 | Chapman/Leonard Enterprises, Inc. | LED push rod flashlight |
US7152995B2 (en) * | 2003-03-25 | 2006-12-26 | Chapman/Leonard Enterprises, Inc. | Flashlight |
US20050174782A1 (en) * | 2003-03-25 | 2005-08-11 | Chapman Leonard T. | Flashlight |
US7147343B2 (en) * | 2003-03-25 | 2006-12-12 | Chapman/Leonard Studio Equipment | Flashlight |
US20040190286A1 (en) * | 2003-03-25 | 2004-09-30 | Chapman Leonard T. | Flashlight |
US7091874B2 (en) * | 2003-04-18 | 2006-08-15 | Smithson Bradley D | Temperature compensated warning light |
US6891284B2 (en) | 2003-04-18 | 2005-05-10 | David A Tilley | Electronic timer with photosensor |
US6850152B1 (en) * | 2003-06-09 | 2005-02-01 | The United States Of America As Represented By The Secretary Of The Navy | Non-flammable land and sea marker |
US7311414B2 (en) * | 2003-06-12 | 2007-12-25 | M. Brent Norton | Ornamental lamp assembly |
WO2005008260A1 (en) * | 2003-07-22 | 2005-01-27 | Icp Global Technologies Inc. | Solar panel having visual indicator |
US7134762B2 (en) * | 2003-11-18 | 2006-11-14 | Oliver Joen-An Ma | Light providing apparatus attachable to umbrella and stand assembly |
AU2003271383A1 (en) | 2003-12-23 | 2005-07-07 | Hpm Industries Pty Ltd | A Solar Powered Light Assembly to Produce Light of Varying Colours |
US6948830B1 (en) * | 2004-01-14 | 2005-09-27 | Petrick John T | Dual beacon obstruction lighting system |
GB0405568D0 (en) * | 2004-03-12 | 2004-04-21 | Jackson Peter | Illuminated features |
US20050238425A1 (en) * | 2004-04-22 | 2005-10-27 | Safar Samir H | Pavement marker and system for freeway advance accident merge signal |
US20050265031A1 (en) * | 2004-06-01 | 2005-12-01 | Aqua-Glo, Llc | Underwater multipurpose illumination device |
US7029144B2 (en) * | 2004-06-18 | 2006-04-18 | San Yang Fu | Multi-purpose lighting fixture |
US20060012996A1 (en) * | 2004-06-24 | 2006-01-19 | Art Mark International Corporation | Solar light apparatus |
US7401508B1 (en) * | 2004-10-28 | 2008-07-22 | Peterson George W | Illuminated rain gauge |
US7152468B1 (en) | 2004-10-28 | 2006-12-26 | Garner Industries, Inc. | Illuminated rain gauge |
US7536907B1 (en) * | 2004-10-28 | 2009-05-26 | Peterson George W | Illuminated rain gauge |
US7217006B2 (en) * | 2004-11-20 | 2007-05-15 | Automatic Power, Inc. | Variation of power levels within an LED array |
US20060120083A1 (en) * | 2004-12-08 | 2006-06-08 | Automatic Power, Inc. | Dual LED point-source assembly |
KR100555413B1 (en) * | 2004-12-29 | 2006-03-03 | 서정영 | Boundary stone using the sollar cell |
US7172307B2 (en) * | 2005-01-05 | 2007-02-06 | Gamasonic Ltd. | Solar powered garden light |
US20060175594A1 (en) * | 2005-02-04 | 2006-08-10 | Burkart Michael G | Rail mounting apparatus and method |
US20060204328A1 (en) * | 2005-03-14 | 2006-09-14 | Frey Steven J | Directional highway buoy |
US20060220895A1 (en) * | 2005-03-18 | 2006-10-05 | Edwards Systems Technology, Inc. | Ambient light sensing solar powered pulsed LED visual indicator apparatus and method |
GB2434857A (en) * | 2006-02-04 | 2007-08-08 | Stephen John Fuller | Mooring / Pontoon Light |
ITMI20060213A1 (en) * | 2006-02-08 | 2007-08-09 | Guzzini Flii Spa | LIGHTING NETWORK |
DE102006007536A1 (en) * | 2006-02-16 | 2007-08-30 | Aloys Wobben | Wind turbine with flight lighting device |
CA2586496C (en) * | 2006-04-28 | 2010-07-13 | Genlyte Thomas Group Llc | Vandal resistant luminaire |
US7631993B2 (en) * | 2006-04-28 | 2009-12-15 | Genlyte Thomas Group Llc | Front trim ring for a vandal resistant luminaire |
US20070274066A1 (en) * | 2006-05-25 | 2007-11-29 | Ledtronics, Inc. | Lantern using LEDs and rechargeable solar panel |
US20080062690A1 (en) * | 2006-09-08 | 2008-03-13 | Ip T Y | Lighting device with protective cover |
US7619372B2 (en) * | 2007-03-02 | 2009-11-17 | Lighting Science Group Corporation | Method and apparatus for driving a light emitting diode |
US20080278934A1 (en) * | 2007-05-08 | 2008-11-13 | David Maldonado | Lighting system |
US8810191B2 (en) * | 2007-05-08 | 2014-08-19 | David Maldonado | Solar sign illumination system |
US8665138B2 (en) * | 2007-07-17 | 2014-03-04 | Laufer Wind Group Llc | Method and system for reducing light pollution |
EP2048431A1 (en) * | 2007-10-08 | 2009-04-15 | Andreas Hierzer | Solar lamp with dimmer |
US7862204B2 (en) * | 2007-10-25 | 2011-01-04 | Pervaiz Lodhie | LED light |
US7784967B2 (en) * | 2007-10-30 | 2010-08-31 | Pervaiz Lodhie | Loop LED light |
USD631567S1 (en) | 2008-01-11 | 2011-01-25 | Pervaiz Lodhie | LED bulb |
CN101547544A (en) * | 2008-03-24 | 2009-09-30 | 富士迈半导体精密工业(上海)有限公司 | Illumination device |
USD614318S1 (en) | 2008-06-10 | 2010-04-20 | Pervaiz Lodhie | LED light module |
USD613885S1 (en) | 2008-06-10 | 2010-04-13 | Pervaiz Lodhie | Two-stage LED light module |
USD613886S1 (en) | 2008-06-10 | 2010-04-13 | Pervaiz Lodhie | LED light module with cutouts |
DE102008034747B3 (en) * | 2008-07-24 | 2009-09-10 | Wobben, Aloys | Nacelle for use on rotor hub in wind turbine, has two lateral lighting devices arranged at two opposite sides of nacelle, where one of middle and lateral lighting devices is accessible from interior of nacelle and/or is foldable in interior |
CN101749686B (en) * | 2008-12-03 | 2012-03-14 | 富准精密工业(深圳)有限公司 | Light emitting diode lamp |
US8098017B2 (en) * | 2009-01-22 | 2012-01-17 | Daniel William Chidester | Automatic, low level floor lighting system |
CA2756802A1 (en) * | 2009-03-31 | 2010-10-07 | Carmanah Technologies Corp. | Solar powered airfield light |
JP5220723B2 (en) * | 2009-12-28 | 2013-06-26 | 株式会社エヌ・ピー・シー | Solar simulator |
US8529107B2 (en) | 2010-04-21 | 2013-09-10 | Tripsplusone, Inc. | System for use in illumination of railway feature |
US11248755B2 (en) | 2010-06-18 | 2022-02-15 | Luminaid Lab, Llc | Inflatable solar-powered light |
US9083121B2 (en) | 2010-12-17 | 2015-07-14 | Sunpower Corporation | Diode-included connector, photovoltaic laminate and photovoltaic assembly using same |
US20120228399A1 (en) * | 2011-03-11 | 2012-09-13 | Ron Forhan | Illuminated sprinkler with micro-generator |
US20120243213A1 (en) * | 2011-03-25 | 2012-09-27 | Chi Gon Chen | Outdoor led light fixture with dimmer switch |
US8449168B2 (en) * | 2011-06-07 | 2013-05-28 | Wen-Sung Hu | Intelligent and energy-saving LED lamp with glimmer and full light emission |
US8752972B2 (en) | 2011-10-07 | 2014-06-17 | Patno Enterprise, Llc | Lighting system |
US10060582B2 (en) | 2012-01-24 | 2018-08-28 | Tactical Impulse Llc | Modular flashlight system with retention device |
US9046230B2 (en) * | 2012-01-24 | 2015-06-02 | Tactical Impulse Llc | Modular flashlight system |
KR20150013649A (en) | 2012-05-01 | 2015-02-05 | 더 트러스티스 오브 콜롬비아 유니버시티 인 더 시티 오브 뉴욕 | Inflatable solar-powered light |
US9402285B2 (en) * | 2012-06-18 | 2016-07-26 | Michael B. Bond | Indoor photovoltaic flasher |
US9030829B2 (en) | 2012-10-22 | 2015-05-12 | Oliver Joen-An Ma | Modular accessory |
US9016886B2 (en) | 2012-11-01 | 2015-04-28 | Mpowerd, Inc. | Inflatable solar powered lamp |
AU2014100975B4 (en) * | 2014-08-25 | 2015-03-26 | Key Logic Pty Ltd | Solar powered outdoor lighting device |
US9080736B1 (en) * | 2015-01-22 | 2015-07-14 | Mpowerd Inc. | Portable solar-powered devices |
US10808898B2 (en) * | 2015-03-26 | 2020-10-20 | Tiger Tech Industries | Solar powered light assembly with sensor |
USD932078S1 (en) | 2015-07-14 | 2021-09-28 | Luminaid Lab, Llc | Expandable light |
US10427698B2 (en) | 2016-01-29 | 2019-10-01 | Green Timber Energy | Train derailer placement warning device |
WO2018085783A1 (en) | 2016-11-04 | 2018-05-11 | Luminaid Lab, Llc | Multi-powering solar lamps |
US10760746B2 (en) | 2016-11-04 | 2020-09-01 | Luminaid Lab, Llc | Solar lamp with radial elements and electronics assembly contained in a watertight enclosure |
US10847992B2 (en) | 2017-05-22 | 2020-11-24 | Gary Osborne | Apparatus for a solar pathway light |
US10180221B1 (en) | 2018-02-12 | 2019-01-15 | Mpowerd Inc. | Modular solar-powered lighting devices and components thereof |
EP3527103B1 (en) | 2018-02-20 | 2021-01-06 | Activa Leisure Inc. | Stand for portable accessory |
US11578860B2 (en) | 2018-02-20 | 2023-02-14 | ZHUN-AN Ma | Stand for portable accessory |
USD869718S1 (en) | 2018-02-20 | 2019-12-10 | ZHUN-AN Ma | Umbrella attached light |
USD864452S1 (en) | 2018-02-28 | 2019-10-22 | E. Mishan & Sons, Inc. | Outdoor light |
USD890401S1 (en) * | 2018-04-13 | 2020-07-14 | Zhejiang Twinsel Electronic Technology Co., Ltd. | Solar lamp |
USD834233S1 (en) | 2018-04-13 | 2018-11-20 | E. Mishan & Sons, Inc. | Rock disk light |
USD842522S1 (en) | 2018-09-04 | 2019-03-05 | E. Mishan & Sons, Inc. | Rock disk light |
USD842523S1 (en) | 2018-09-04 | 2019-03-05 | E. Mishan & Sons, Inc. | Rock disk light |
US11400963B2 (en) * | 2018-09-05 | 2022-08-02 | Focused Technology Solutions, Inc. | Derail warning light system |
US10309590B2 (en) | 2018-09-06 | 2019-06-04 | E. Mishan & Sons, Inc. | Solar disk light with swivel mount |
USD841873S1 (en) | 2018-09-06 | 2019-02-26 | E. Mishan & Sons, Inc. | Swivel disk light |
USRE49252E1 (en) | 2018-09-06 | 2022-10-18 | E. Mishan & Sons, Inc. | Solar disk light with swivel mount |
US10704746B2 (en) | 2018-10-19 | 2020-07-07 | Mpowerd Inc. | Portable lighting devices with wireless connectivity |
USD898974S1 (en) | 2020-03-27 | 2020-10-13 | E. Mishan & Sons, Inc. | Landscape light |
USD908253S1 (en) | 2020-06-17 | 2021-01-19 | E. Mishan & Sons, Inc. | Square solar LED light |
US11754239B2 (en) | 2021-04-12 | 2023-09-12 | Gary Thomas Osborne | Apparatus for a solar light |
USD950822S1 (en) | 2021-04-12 | 2022-05-03 | E. Mishan & Sons, Inc. | Swivel disk light |
Family Cites Families (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4751622A (en) * | 1987-04-06 | 1988-06-14 | Power Plus, Inc. | Solar powered construction light |
US5782552A (en) * | 1995-07-26 | 1998-07-21 | Green; David R. | Light assembly |
-
1998
- 1998-04-23 US US09/065,382 patent/US6013985A/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1998-06-18 CA CA002241044A patent/CA2241044C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US6013985A (en) | 2000-01-11 |
CA2241044A1 (en) | 1999-10-23 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
CA2241044C (en) | Sealed solar-powered light assembly | |
US4843525A (en) | Solar powered yard marker | |
CA1059579A (en) | Self-contained maintenance-free emergency lighting | |
US4841416A (en) | Solar charging lamp | |
US4751622A (en) | Solar powered construction light | |
US4384317A (en) | Solar powered lighting system | |
US9829161B2 (en) | Battery compartment adapter cap housing rechargeable battery and device equipped therewith | |
KR100311665B1 (en) | Battery device and intermittent operation device using it | |
EP0851989B1 (en) | A light assembly | |
US5211470A (en) | Self-contained solar powered light | |
US5582196A (en) | Multipurpose cane | |
US20060220895A1 (en) | Ambient light sensing solar powered pulsed LED visual indicator apparatus and method | |
US20070091594A1 (en) | Solar Powered Portable Light Apparatus | |
KR200470551Y1 (en) | Flashing light solar rotation | |
US5537111A (en) | Solar powered aircraft warning device | |
CA2474038A1 (en) | Solar stepping stone | |
US20120182725A1 (en) | Lighting apparatus and enclosure | |
ES2311469T3 (en) | SOLAR POWERED APPARATUS. | |
US10424173B1 (en) | Lighted piling cap | |
US20090201174A1 (en) | Warning Light | |
US4884017A (en) | Solar powered construction light | |
US20060130727A1 (en) | Illuminated dock bumper | |
US10989379B2 (en) | Lighted piling cap | |
KR101054495B1 (en) | Road Solar LED Indicator | |
JP2004250982A (en) | Color cone |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
EEER | Examination request | ||
MKLA | Lapsed |
Effective date: 20160620 |