Note : Les descriptions sont présentées dans la langue officielle dans laquelle elles ont été soumises.
CA 02675089 2013-11-21
CONSPICUTTY DEVICES AND METHODS
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention
[002] The present invention relates to a conspicuity device and method
for
providing ready identification of an object or individual. Particularly, the
present invention is
directed to a conspicuity device and method that is capable for providing
ready identification
of an object or individual in an environment of reduced visibility such as
darkness/and or
smoke.
Description of Related Art
(003] A variety of devices are generally known in the art for providing
enhanced
visibility of objects or individuals. Of such devices, many are directed to
devices and
systems for use in smoky and/or dark environments.
[0041 It can be appreciated that lighting devices on helmets, for example,
have been
in use for many years. Typically, such lighting devices are comprised of
conventional
flashlights and similar battery-operated warning devices that project light in
a.unidirectional
beam. The main problem with such conventional devices include, for example,
the size of
the devices and cumbersome power supply attachments that frequently accompany
them.
Another significant problem with such conventional devices are that
flashlights and light
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
projecting devices tend to generate light only in the visible region,
particularly white light.
Such light typically reflected, for example, in smoky conditions and even
absorbed by
particles of haze and smoke.
10051 Other passive devices have also been used, such as reflective
materials and the
like. Such passive devices are of limited utility, as they do not emit any
light in low visibility
conditions or complete darkness.
[0061 In short, while these devices may be suitable for the particular
purpose to
which they address, they are not as suitable for a device that will enable,
for example,
individuals wearing helmets working in various types of low visibility
conditions, to be seen
by others.
[007] Furthermore, utility straps or tool bands for helmets and a variety
of other
similar devices have been used for years. Typically a helmet utility strap or
helmet tool band
is made of a flexible material that conforms to the outer shell of a helmet.
The common
design which is found, is a one piece circular band or strap which is made of
a rubber or
elastic material. However, such bands suffer from a number of deficiencies.
[0081 Significant problems with conventional utility straps or tool bands
for helmets
include their inability, for example: (1) to adjust to various types of
helmets, (2) to open or
close, (3) to mount on a helmet securely, (4) to provide for the safe keeping
of tools, (5) to
offer heat and flame resistance, and (6) to offer effective conspicuity in
potential hazardous
situations where low visibility prevents one from being seen.
[009] As can be seen, there still remains a continued need in the art for
improved
devices and methods for enhancing visibility of individuals, such as emergency
workers such
as firemen. There also remains a need in the art for such devices that are
inexpensive and
easy to make. The present invention provides a solution for these and other
problems, as
described herein.
2
=
CA 02675089 2013-11-21
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] The purpose and advantages of the present invention will be set
forth in and
become apparent from the description that follows. Additional advantages of
the invention will
be realized and attained by the methods and systems particularly pointed out
in the written
description and claims hereof; as well as from the appended drawings.
[00111 To achieve these and other advantages and in accordance with the
purpose of
the invention, as embodied herein, in accordance with one aspect, the
invention includes a tool
band having a first end and a second end. The tool band further includes an
elongate fire
resistant webbing portion, a fire resistant elastic portion attached to the
webbing portion, and a
coupling portion adapted and configured to selectively attach the first end of
the band to the
second end of the band.
[0012] In accordance with further aspects of the invention, the webbing
portion of the
tool band may be made at least in part from aramid fibers. For example, the
webbing portion
may be made at least in part from KEVI,Ae material. If desired, the elastic
portion may also
be made at least in part from aramid fibers. For example, the elastic portion
may be made at
least in part from NOMEX material. One or more loops can be provided for the
tool band that
are attached to the webbing portion. The loop(s) are preferably adapted and
configured to hold
an object. The loops may be made from an elastic material, such as NOMEX
material. Each of
the loops define a passage therethrough. The passages may be generally
transverse to the
webbing portion of the tool band, parallel to the tool band or angled
obliquely with respect to
the tool band. The ends of the tool band may be attached to one another in a
variety of manners,
including hook and loop fasteners (e.g., Velcro material), buckle mechanisms
(e.g., Fastex
buckles made from nylon), snaps, buttons, hooks and the like.
3
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
[0013] In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, the tool band
can be
further provided with a conspicuity device attached thereto. The conspicuity
device can
include passive retroreflective materials such as REFLEXITE or other suitable
microprismatic materials, and/or retroreflective photoluminescent materials
that glow in the
dark when properly charged. If desired, the conspicuity device can
additionally or
alternatively include one or more lighting devices. For example, suitable
lighting devices can
include one ofmore electroluminescent elements, one ore more lasers and one or
more work
lights. The electroluminescent lamp may be affixed to the webbing and be
adapted and
configured to emit light. Preferably, the lamp has at least one elongate
electroluminescent
element defining a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis, the
electroluminescent element
having a plurality of relatively wide emitting segments disposed along the
longitudinal axis
connected to each other by a relatively narrow emitting segment. Any suitable
laser can also
be provided in the tool band, for example, for pointing at objects and/or for
acting as a
location indicator of the wearer.
[0014] The tool band preferably is also provided with a power source
attached to the
band. The power source is preferably adapted and configured to power one or
more of the
lighting devices. The work light can be any one of a suitable number of
different devices. In
accordance with a preferred embodiment, the work light is an LED lamp. Even
more
preferably, the LED lamp has a light output between about 500 and about 1500
candlepower,
preferably about 1000 candlepower. The work light can be a removable
flashlight that may
be rechargeable, or may be integrally formed with the tool band, and be
amiably mounted, as
desired.
[0015] In further accordance with the invention, the tool band can have
one or more
suitable tools mounted therein. Such tools can include, for example, one or
more door
wedges, lighting mechanisms, and wrenches, among others. If desired, a
communication
4
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
device, such as a radio or portable telephone can also be mounted in or
integrated with the
tool band.
[0016] The invention also provides a conspicuity device. The device
includes an
electroluminescent lamp adapted and configured to emit light, the lamp having
at least one
elongate electroluminescent element defining a longitudinal axis and a
transverse axis, the
electroluminescent element having a plurality of relatively wide emitting
segments disposed
along the longitudinal axis connected to each other by a relatively narrow
emitting segment.
[0017] In further accordance with the invention, the elongate element can
be
continuous or interrupted and formed from one or more pieces of material. In
accordance
with one embodiment of the invention, the relatively narrow emitting segment
may have a
width along the transverse axis that is less than the width along the
transverse axis of at least
one of the relatively wide emitting segments. The plurality of relatively wide
emitting
segments may have an average width along the transverse axis between about
three quarters
of an inch and about one eighth of an inch. More preferably, the plurality of
relatively wide
emitting segments may have an average width along the transverse axis between
about one
half of an inch and about one quarter of an inch. Even more preferably, the
plurality of
relatively wide emitting segments have an average width along the transverse
axis of about
one quarter of an inch.
[0018] In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, the
relatively narrow
emitting segment may have an average width along the transverse axis that is
between about
three quarters and about one quarter the width of an adjacent relatively wide
emitting
segment. If desired, the relatively narrow emitting segment may have an
average width along
the transverse axis that is about half the width of an adjacent relatively
wide emitting
segment.
=
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
[0019] By way of further example, the relatively narrow emitting segment
may have a
length along the longitudinal axis that is less than the length along the
longitudinal axis of at
least one of the relatively wide emitting segments. If desired, the plurality
of relatively wide
emitting segments have an average length along the longitudinal axis between
about three
inches and about one half of an inch. More preferably, the plurality of
relatively wide
emitting segments may have an average length along the longitudinal axis
between about two
inches and about one inch. Most preferably, the plurality of relatively wide
emitting
segments have an average length along the longitudinal axis of about one and
one half inches.
[0020] In accordance with still another aspect of the invention, the
relatively narrow
emitting segment can have an average length along the longitudinal axis that
is between about
three quarters and about one quarter the length of an adjacent relatively wide
emitting
segment. More preferably, the relatively narrow emitting segment has an
average length
along the longitudinal axis that is about one third the length of an adjacent
relatively wide
emitting segment.
[0021] In accordance with still a further aspect of the invention, the
device preferably
further includes a plurality of electrical conductors operably coupled to the
electroluminescent element. Additionally, the device also may include a power
source
operably coupled to the electroluminescent element by way of the plurality of
electrical
conductors. The power source preferably includes at least one battery operably
coupled to
the electrical conductors. If desired, the battery may be rechargeable and/or
removable from
the device. In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, the device can
emit light
for more than about eight hours before the battery requires charging or
replacement. In
accordance with another embodiment, the device can emit light for more than
about ten hours
during an operating mode that provides constant illumination. In accordance
with still
6
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
another embodiment of the invention, the device can emit light for more than
about forty
hours during an operating mode that provides intermittent illumination.
[0022] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the power
source can
further include an electrical inverter interposed in a circuit between the
battery and the
electroluminescent element. Preferably, the power source is operably coupled
to at least one
of the electrical conductors by a switch. The switch can be adapted and
configured to permit
selection of at least one operating mode of the device. For example, by using
the switch,
various operating modes such as constant and intermittent operation can be
selected.
[0023] In yet further accordance with the invention, the device may
include an
encasement adapted and configured to house the electroluminescent element. In
accordance
with one embodiment, the encasement includes a plurality of layers of material
bonded
together to define a compartment between the layers adapted and configured to
receive the
electroluminescent element. The compartment may be defined by a seal about its
periphery.
The seal may include at least one of a heat seal, a solvent weld, an
ultrasonic weld, stitching
and an adhesive seal, among others. At least one layer of the encasement
includes polymeric
material. Preferably, all layers of the encasement include some amount of
polymeric
material. Preferably, the polymeric material is fire resistant. A number of
suitable polymeric
materials can be used, including various vinyl materials.
[0024] The encasement preferably includes a polymeric base layer upon
which the
electroluminescent element is positioned. A clear lens layer is then affixed
to the base layer,
trapping the electroluminescent element between the two layers. The lens layer
is preferably
formed from a vinyl material. Even more preferably, the vinyl lens layer is
heat resistant, and
permits passage of visible light and ultraviolet light therethrough.
[0025] In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, the polymeric
base layer
preferably includes retroreflective material. For example, the base polymeric
base layer may
7
CA 02675089 2013-11-21
include a plurality of microprism reflective elements integrally bonded to the
polymeric
material. In accordance with one embodiment, the polymeric base layer has a
retroreflective
value in excess of 350 cdilux/m2(cp1) when measured in accordance with NFPA
1971, 2000
edition. Preferably, the layer has a retroreflective value of about 650
ccliluximz (cp1). The
polymeric base layer may also be bonded to a fabric-reinforced polymeric
backing material.
For example, the polymeric base layer can be formed from REFLEXITE material,
such as
described in U.S. Patent No. 4,801,193, U.S. Patent No. 4,244,683, U.S. Patent
No.
4,243,618, U.S. Patent No. 4,202,600, U.S. Patent No. 4,555,161, U.S. Patent
No. 5,171,624,
U.S. Patent No. 5,264,063 and U.S. Patent No. 5,229,882.
[00261 If desired, the polymeric base layer of the encasement may
additionally or
alternatively include photoluminescent retrorefiective material. Such
materials are described,
for example, in U.S. Patent No. 5,415,911, U.S. Patent No. 6,159,878, U.S.
Patent No.
6,569,786, and U.S. Patent No. 6,656,566.
The photoluminescent retroreflective material is preferably charged by
exposure to ultraviolet light. Preferably, the retroreflective
photoluminescent material
includes photoluminescent elements including strontium aluminate. Other
materials, such as
zinc sulfide phottplurnicescent elements may also be used. Comparatively
speaking,
strontium alurninate retrorefleetive material tends to have a higher
brightness and longer
afterglow, which may be desirable in certain applications. These
photoluminescent crystals
(e.g., strontium alurninate) may be are cast into a polymeric material such as
a pliable PVC
vinyl, and used in a manner similar to the REFLEXITE material.
[00271 In further accordance with one embodiment of the conspicuity device
provided
by the invention, the electroluminescent lamp can be adapted and configured to
emit a
majority of photons in a wavelength range of about 500nm. The spectral energy
distribution
8
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
of certain embodiments of the lamp demonstrate a peak distribution at about
500nm,
extremely close to the peak sensitivity of the human eye in darkness of about
507 nm. As
such, these embodiments of the invention are particularly tuned for maximum
performance in
a dark and/or smoky environment. As such, while the electroluminescent lamp is
adapted
and configured to emit generally blue light, a significant amount of generally
green
wavelengths are also preferably present. Such emission can be ensured by
selecting an
appropriate frequency for powering the electroluminescent lamp, as described
herein.
[00281 In further accordance with the invention, effective peak
intensities for the
lamp are between about .05 Candela and .15 Candela. In accordance with one
example, the
peak intensity for the lamp is about 0.13 Candela. Surprisingly, such a lamp
is nonetheless
highly visible in a dark, smoky environment. In accordance with a further
aspect of the
invention, the lamp is adapted and configured to emit sufficient light to
permit visibility of
the device from a distance of about three to six fee in a black smoky
environment.
100291 In still further accordance with the invention, the elongate
electroluminescent
element is a monolithic structure formed from a single sheet of
electroluminescent material.
In accordance with one aspect of the invention, the lamp can be adapted and
configured to
operate in a first operating mode wherein the lamp is on constantly and a
second operating
mode wherein the lamp blinks. If desired, the lamp can be adapted and
configured to
transmit a distress signal in the second operating mode.
[0030] In accordance with still a further aspect of the invention, an
article of clothing,
such as a helmet, jacket, pair of trousers and/or footwear is provided.
Accordingly, a helmet
may be provided including a generally rigid protective shell, and an
electroltiminescent
conspicuity device as described herein. In accordance with one embodiment of
the invention,
the conspicuity device is disposed about less than the entire periphery of the
helmet. For
example, the conspicuity device may be disposed about more than about 40% and
less than
9
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
about 90% of the periphery of the helmet. Preferably, the conspicuity device
is not disposed
proximate the front of the helmet in order to reduce exposure of the
conspicuity device to
heat of a fire in use. Accordingly, the helmet may be a firefighter's helmet.
[0031] The invention also provides a conspicuity device including a band
adapted and
configured to be mounted to an object and a laser beacon mounted on the band.
[0032] In further accordance with the invention, an electroluminescent
lamp may be
mounted on the band. The electroluminescent lamp may be similar to those
described above,
among others. A power source may also be mounted on the band for powering at
least one of
the lamp and the beacon. If desired, the conspicuity device may further
include a LED work
light mounted on the band. If desired, the power source may be adapted and
configured to
power at least one of the lamp, the beacon and the work light. By way of
further example, if
desired, the conspicuity device may further include a global positioning
device.
[0033] In still further accordance with the invention, the laser beacon of
the
conspicuity device may be mounted in a loop attached to the band. If desired,
the laser
beacon may be rotatably mounted to the band. By way of further example, the
laser beacon
may be pivotally mounted and weighted (e.g., by a pendulum) to direct a beam
vertically
upward when in use to form a signal beacon. The laser can be adapted and
configured to
emit light in a variety of wavelengths. For example, the laser can emit,
green, blue or violet
lights, among others.
[0034] The beam of the laser beacon can have a variety of shapes. For
example, the
laser can emit a collimated beam of light or a diverging beam of light, as
desired. The beam
is preferably not too narrow. For example, in accordance with one embodiment,
tlie laser is
preferably adapted and configured to emit a beam having a diameter in excess
of one
centimeter at a point in the beam more than twenty feet from the laser.
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
[0035] ' In further accordance with the invention, the laser can include a
laser
generator adapted and configured to generate a substantially parallel beam,
and a first lens
downstream from the laser generator adapted and configured to cause the
parallel beam to
diverge as it passes through the first lens. If desired, the laser can further
include a housing
for holding the first lens and laser generator, and a second lens disposed in
the path of the
beam downstream from the first lens. The second lens is preferably adapted and
configured
to cause the diverging beam passing from the first lens to be substantially
collimated. If
desired, the distance along the beam path between the first lens and second
lens can be
adjusted to change the diameter of the beam passing from the second lens. For
example, the
distance between the lenses may be adjusted by rotating a portion of the
housing.
Accordingly, the diameter of the beam leaving the laser can be adjusted from a
diameter of
about one eighth of an inch to a diameter of about one half inch.
[0036] In still further accordance with the invention, the housing of the
conspicuity
device may define a compartment for receiving a pattery for powering the
laser. If desired,
the laser may also be configured to operate in a plurality of operating modes.
For example,
the laser can be operated in a first operating mode wherein the laser is on
constantly, and a
second operating mode wherein the laser blinks. In accordance with one aspect
of the
invention, the laser is preferably adapted and configured to transmit a
distress signal in the
second operating mode.
[0037] The invention also provides a method for making a conspicuity
device. The
method includes providing an elongate electroluminescent element, and bonding
a plurality
of layers of material to each other to define an encasement having an elongate
compartment
for receiving the elongate electroluminescent element.
[0038] In further accordance with the invention, the plurality of layers
of material can
include a base layer onto which the electroluminescent element is placed, and
a lens layer that
11
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
is placed on top of the base layer and the electroluminescent element. The
base layer can me
made from any suitable material, including a retroreflective polymeric
material that may be
photoluminescent, as described herein. If desired, the encasement may then be
attached to a
piece of base material. The base material may include any combination of
webbing and
elastic material as described herein. Preferably, the base Material is fire
resistant. By way of
further example, the base material can include any suitable article of
clothing, such as a
jacket, a shirt, a pair of trousers or shorts, footwear such as boots or
sneakers and headgear
such as helmets, hats or headbands or a sash, among others.
[0039] The invention also provides a method of providing improved
conspicuity in an
environment rendered opaque by smoke and/or darkness. The method includes
providing an
illuminative device to an object to be given conspicuity, and causing the
illuminative device
to emit light having a wavelength equal to or shorter than about 550 nm. More
preferably,
the illuminative device emits light having a wavelength equal to or shorter
than about 510
nm. If desired, the light emitted by the illuminative device may have a
wavelength equal to
or shorter than about 475 nm. By way of further example, the light emitted by
the
illuminative device may have a wavelength equal to or shorter than about 445
nm or 400 nm.
As the wavelength of the emitted light progresses below 500nm, the devices may
be more
useful in applications where it is desired to view an object from a long
distance away. If
desired, the illuminative device may include a laser, a lamp having an
electroluminescent
element and/or an LED lamp, among others.
[0040] The invention also provides a flashlight. The flashlight includes a
direct
current power source, a lamp operably coupled to the power source, and an
electrical inverter
operably coupled to the power source for converting direct current to
alternating current.
[0041] In further accordance with the invention, the flashlight of the
invention may
include an electrical port operably coupled to the electrical inverter for
supplying alternating
12
CA 02675089 2013-11-21
current to another device. The flashlight can include a variety of direct
current power
supplies, such as conventional and/or rechargeable batteries, and the like. If
desired, the
flashlight can also include an electrical generator that can generate
electricity and store it in a
battery during periods of extended use The generator can be used to generate
power, for
example, by shaking the flashlight, by turning a generating crank, and the
like. Suitable
examples of generating schemes are described, for example, in U.S. Patent No.
6,994,450,
U.S. Patent No, 6,914,340, U.S. Patent No. 6,563,269 and -U.S. Patent No.
6,322,233.
If desired, the flashlight
can also include a DC power port for powering a DC accessory, such as a laser
as described
herein.
[0042] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a conspicuity
device is
provided including an electroluminescent lamp, and a flashlight operably
coupled to the
electroluminescent lamp-, wherein electrical power is drawn from the
flashlight to power the
electroluminescent lamp.
[0043] In farther accordance with the invention, the conspic.:uity device
can further
include an inverter adapted and configured to convert direct current to
alternating current for
powering- the electroluminescent lamp. If desired, the inverter may be
integrally formed with
the electroluminescent lamp. Alternatively, the inverter may be integrally
formed with the
flashlight.
[00441 In accordance with still another aspect, the invention provides a
lighting
device including a light source having a spectral energy distribution that is
specifically
adapted and configured to substantially overlap the spectral sensitivity of
the human eye in
one or more viewing conditions.
[0045] In further accordance with the invention, the spectral energy
distribution of the
light source may be specifically adapted and configured to substantially
overlap the spectral
13
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
sensitivity of the human eye in photopic, mesopic and/or scotopic conditions.
The overlap of
the spectral distribution of the light source and the sensitivity of the human
eye can be less
than or equal to about 100%, about 95%, about 90%, about 85%, and so on in any
suitable
increments (e.g., of 1% or 5% for example) until the overlap ceases to have a
performance
advantage by virtue of the overlap. For example, there may only be a 20%
overlap, but the
20% overlap may lie in a region of particular sensitivity of the human eye.
For example, in
darkness conditions, the human eye is most sensitive to light having a
wavelength of about
507 nm. As such, a light having even a small portion of its spectral
distribution (e.g., about
10%) at or near 507 nm may demonstrate significant visibility.
[0046] In further accordance with the invention, the lighting device may
include an
active lighting device and/or a passive lighting device. For example, if the
lighting device is
active, it may be selected from the group including (i) a running light for a
car, (ii) an
illuminated sign, (iii) an illuminated warning signal (iii) an interior
building light, (iv) a street
light, (v) a reading light, (vi) a flashlight (vii) a light emitting diode and
(viii)
electroluminescent material, among others. If the lighting device is passive,
the device may
include photoluminescent material and/or retroreflective material. If it is
passive, the lighting
device may selected from the group including (i) a surface of a motor vehicle,
(ii) a road sign,
(iii) a fence (iii) an interior surface of a building and (iv) paint, among
others.
[0047] In further accordance with the invention, a method of constructing
a lighting
device is provided. The method includes providing an electroluminescent lamp,
and selecting
a power source for powering the electroluminescent lamp having a frequency and
voltage
output that will cause the electroluminescent lamp to have a spectral energy
distribution that
is specifically adapted and configured to substantially overlap the spectral
sensitivity of the
human eye.
14
CA 02675089 2013-11-21
[0048] In further accordance with the invention, the voltage and
frequency of the
power source may be selected such that the spectral energy distribution of the
electroluminescent lamp is specifically adapted and configured to
substantially overlap the
spectral sensitivity of the human eye in photopic, mesopic and/or scotopic
conditions.
[0049] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description
and the
following detailed description are exemplary and are intended to provide
further explanation of
the invention claimed.
[0050] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and
constitute part of
this specification, are included to illustrate and provide a further
understanding of the method
and system of the invention. Together with the description, the drawings serve
to explain the
principles of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0051] Figs. 1(A)-1(B) are partial views of a representative embodiment
of a
conspieuity device provided in accordance with the present invention.
[0052] Fig. 2 is an exploded view of an encasement made to house a
conspicuity
device made in accordance with the present invention.
[0053] Figs. 3(A)-3(C) are a plan view of an exemplary embodiment of an
electroluminescent element made in accordance with the present invention.
[0054] Fig. 4 is an isometric view of an exemplary power supply for an
electroluminescent lamp in accordance with the present invention.
100551 Fig. 5 is a graph depicting the spectral energy distribution of an
exemplary
electroluminescent lamp made in accordance with the present invention.
[0056] Fig. 6 is a graph depicting the intensity or an exemplary
electroluminescent
lamp made in accordance with the present invention.
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
[0057] Figs. 7(A)-7(E) and Figs. 8(A)-8(E) depict articles of clothing
embodying
technology provided in accordance with the present invention.
[0058] Figs. 9(A)-9(B) and Figs. 10(A)-10(B) depict aspects of a laser
beacon
provided in accordance with the present invention.
[0059] Figs. 11(A)-11(G) depict various views of a tool band including an
electroluminescent lamp and a work light alone, and mounted on a helmet, in
accordance
with the present invention.
[0060] Figs. 12(A)-12(F) depict various views of features of a novel work
light
provided in accordance with the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0056] Reference will now be made in detail to the present preferred
embodiments of
the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings.
The method
and corresponding steps of the invention will be described in conjunction with
the detailed
description of the system.
[0057] The devices and methods presented herein may be used for myriad
purposes.
Generally, the devices described herein may be used for providing enhanced
visibility in
photopic, mesopic and/or scotopic conditions, as appropriate. The present
invention is
particularly suited for providing enhanced visibility in emergency situations
involving smoke,
haze and/or darkness.
[0058] The inability for the common helmet utility strap or tool band to
adjust
lengthwise presents several problems. Over time a loop of fixed length made of
rubber or
elastic material when conformed to a shape will lose its elasticity. This will
eventually
prevent the device from effectively maintaining its elastic tension around a
helmet, for
example. Typically, when this occurs the user must discard the device because
it is
16
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
ineffective. Moreover, the lack of tension that occurs directly compromises
the safe keeping
of tools or other devices reliant on the constant elastic tension required for
effective mounting
on a helmet. The novel and useful improvements described herein offer a
significant
improvement to conventional designs.
[0059] In accordance with one aspect of the invention, a tool band is
provided
including one or more loops for holding tools.
[0060] For purpose of explanation and illustration, and not limitation, a
partial view
of an exemplary embodiment of the tool band in accordance with the invention
is shown in
Fig. 1 and is designated generally by reference character 100. Other
embodiments of a tool
band in accordance with the invention, or aspects thereof, are provided in
Figs. 2-12, as will
be described.
[0061] As illustrated in Fig. 1(A), tool band 100 includes a first end
102, a second end
104 and has an elongate flexible body 106. Preferably, flexible body portion
106 includes an
elongate fire resistant webbing portion 108, a fire resistant elastic portion
110 attached to the
webbing portion, and a coupling portion 112 that is adapted and configured to
selectively
attach the first end 102 of the band 100 to the second end 104 of the band
100.
[0062] The inability for the common helmet utility strap to provide heat
and flame
resistance when in extreme conditions is based strictly on the very lack of
heat and flame
resistant properties of the materials used in its construction. When a
conventional utility
strap or tool band made from non-heat-resistant material (e.g., rubber or
elastic) is exposed to
heat and flame, it can easily loose its elasticity resulting in a loss of
tension and decreasing or
eliminating its efficacy as a tool band. The potential also exists for the
helmet utility strap to
completely fail by snapping or being burnt off.
[0063] The portions of tool band 100 may be made from a variety of
materials. For
example, the webbing portion 108 of the tool band 100 may be made at least in
part from
17
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
aramid fibers. For example, the webbing portion 108 may be made at least in
part from
KEVLARTM material. A particular example of webbing can be one-inch wide
KEVLARTM
webbing that passes the National Fire Protection Act ("NFPA") 1981 Heat Test &
Flame
Test. Such a material can be a modacrylic blend including, for example, 83%
KEVLARTM
material and 17% modacrylic material. Such webbing material may be obtained,
for
example, from Offray Specialty Narrow Fabrics, Inc., located in Chester, New
Jersey 07930
(Tel: (908) 879-3636. Providing a band 100 made from heat and flame resistant
material
presents a solution to the dilemma described above.
10064] If desired, the elastic portion may also be made at least in part
from aramid
fibers. For example, the elastic portion may be made at least in part from
NOMEXTm
material. An example of a suitable NOMEXTm material includes one-inch wide
NOMEXTm
material that passes the NFPA 1981 Heat Test & Flame Test. Such material may
be about
50% NOMEXTm material and about 50% elastic material. Such material can also be
obtained
from Offray Specialty Narrow Fabrics, Inc..
[0065] The inability for the common helmet utility strap to provide the
safe keeping
of tools is consistent with its very basic design. The common application of a
helmet utility
strap or tool band is to trap a tool between the material of the band and the
surface of the
helmet. The tension of the elasticity of the band is used to secure the tool
against the helmet.
Although very basic, this method of trapping a tool is actually very
inefficient for a variety of
reasons. For example, such a tmethod of tool capture imposes significant wear
on the elastic
properties of the band itself and causes it to lose its elasticity more
quickly. Moreover,
merely trapping a tool between the band and the helmet does not guarantee that
the tools will
not shift during use, which can be very disconcerting when searching for a
tool in one's
headband in a very dark and/or smoky condition.
18
CA 02675089 2013-11-21
[0066] In order to address this deficiency in the art, as further
depicted in Fig.
1(B), one or more loops 114 can be provided for the tool band 100 that are
preferably
attached to the webbing portion 108. The loop(s) 114 are preferably adapted
and
configured to hold an object, such as a tool. The loops 114 may be made from
an elastic
material, preferably a NOMEXTm material as described above. Each of the loops
114
defines a passage 116 therethrough. The passages 116 may be generally
transverse to
the webbing portion 108 of the tool band, parallel to the tool band 100 or be
angled
obliquely with respect to the tool band 100, as appropriate. By using elastic,
preferably
flame resistant secured tool loops 114 as described herein, the placement of
tools is
exact, secure, and will not unduly cause the elasticity of the band 100 to
wear out
prematurely.
[0067] The ends 102, 104 of the tool band 100 may be attached to one
another
in a variety of manners, including hook and loop fasteners (e.g., Velcro
material),
buckle mechanisms (e.g., Fastex buckles made from nylon), snaps, buttons,
hooks and
the like. In accordance with a preferred embodiment, a buckle 112 is provided
having a
male portion 1 12a and a female portion 112b. Suitable buckles may be obtained
from
Horna Locks, Inc., of Bethel, CT 06801 (Tel: (203) 743-5913). Buckle 112
preferably
includes a length adjustment and is preferably made from heat stabilized nylon
6/6.
[0068] By providing a tool band 100 that allows the opening and closing
of the
band provides better conformity of the band to a given helmet. Typically,
mounting a
conventional helmet utility strap requires the strap to be stretched over the
top of the
helmet to establish a secure fit. A band with a properly designed coupling,
such as
buckle 112 permits the helmet utility strap to work in conjunction with
associated
adjustability feature 113 to offer an optimal fit to the helmet. Moreover, if
the user of a
conventional helmet strap becomes snagged or entangled, for example, while in
a
burning building, the very life of the user is jeopardized by the fact that
freeing oneself
in such a situation is very difficult without having to remove
19
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
one's helmet. However, by providing a coupling, the strap can merely be
disengaged,
facilitating the user's ability to free themselves from the dangerous
condition without removal
of the helmet, which can help avoid unnecessary exposure to heat and smoke.
[0069] The inability for the common helmet utility strap to mount on a
helmet
securely is consistent with its very basic design. A one piece circular band
or strap which is
made of a rubber or elastic material in many instances is unable to remain
secured to a helmet
for long periods of time based on its elastic tension alone. The lack of
elasticity caused over
time, the constant handling of a helmet and the vibrations experienced by a
helmet all
contribute to the loosening of a conventionally designed helmet strap. To
further help
mitigate these effects, self-adhesive tabs having hook and loop fasteners
(e.g., Velcro
fasteners) 150 may be placed on the inside surface of tool band 100 of the
helmet utility strap
to prevent the strap from easily failing off a given helmet, should it become
dislodged. A
corresponding hook and loop fastener can be attached to the helmet of the
wearer in a suitable
location. In addition, other fasteners may be used in addition to hook and
loop fasteners,
such as snaps, hooks, buttons, tabs and the like.
[0070] In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, the tool band
can be
further provided with a conspicuity device attached thereto. The conspicuity
device can
include one or more active and/or passive lighting devices.
[0071] For purposes of illustration and not limitation, as depicted in
Fig. 1, the
conspicuity device can include one or more active lighting devices as
described herein. For
example, suitable active lighting devices can include one or more
electroluminescent lamps
200, one ore more lasers 300 and one or more work lights 400.
[0072] The electroluminescent lamp 200, examples of which are described in
detail
below, may be affixed to the webbing 108 by various means (e.g., stitching,
adhesive,
fasteners and the like) and be adapted and configured to emit light.
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
100731 As further depicted in Fig. 1, a laser 300 can also be provided as
a conspicuity
device in the tool band 100, for example. Laser 300 can be used for pointing
at objects
and/or for acting as a location indicator of the wearer or to transmit
signals, as desired. Laser
300 and features thereof are described in further detail below.
[0074] As depicted in Fig. 1, tool band 100 can also be provided with a
work light
400. Work light can be any one of a number of different suitable devices. In
accordance
with one embodiment, the work light is an LED lamp or flashlight. The LED lamp
or
flashlight 400 can have a light output between about 25 and about 1500
candlepower. Work
light 400 can be a removable flashlight that may be rechargeable, or may be
integrally formed
with the tool band, and be amiably mounted, as desired. Other embodiments of
work light
400 are described in detail herein.
[0075] The tool band 100 is preferably also provided with one or more
power sources
for powering active devices used in combination with the band. If desired, the
tool band can
have additional suitable tools mounted therein. Such tools can include, for
example, one or
more door wedges 600, lighting mechanisms, and wrenches 700, among others. If
desired, a
communication device 800, such as a radio, portable telephone and/or global
positioning
system can also be mounted in or integrated with the tool band 100.
[0076] As mentioned above, the invention provides a conspicuity device
including an
electroluminescent element.
[0077] For purposes of illustration and not limitation, as embodied
herein, the a
conspicuity device in the form of an electroluminescent lamp 200 is provided.
Preferably, the
lamp 200 has at least one elongate electroluminescent element 210 defining a
longitudinal
axis L and a transverse axis W. As depicted, for example, in Figs. 2 and 3,
the
electroluminescent element 210 includes a plurality of relatively wide
emitting segments or
21
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
cells 220 disposed along the longitudinal axis connected to each other by a
relatively narrow
emitting segment, or connector, 230.
[0078] By using the "cell-connector" pattern as described above, the
design of the
lamp is optimized as compared to an electroluminescent strip 210 of constant
width.
Specifically, the disclosed "dashed" design requires energizing a smaller
amount of surface
area than a similar strip of uniform width. As a result, for a given amount of
power, the
intensity of the light transmitted is higher from lamp 200. As such, lamp 200
is brighter than
if it had an element 210 of constant width along its length.
[0079] In further accordance with the invention, the elongate element can
be a
continuous, monolithic element (as depicted) or may be interrupted and formed
from more
than one piece of electroluminescent material. Suitable electroluminescent
material may be
obtained, for example, from MetroMark, Inc. of Minnetonka, MN 55343-8862
(Tel.: (800)
680-5556). =
[00801 Such electroluminescent material can be driven by an alternating
current
electrical power source at a particular voltage and frequency. The particular
voltage and
frequency selected will influence the color emitted by the electroluminescent
material, and
hence the spectral distribution of the light emitted by the electroluminescent
material. For
example, by increasing the frequency of the driving voltage, the light emitted
by the
electroluminescent element progresses toward the blue, higher energy end of
the visible
spectrum. The EL emission process generates energy only over a limited range
and thus
causes light to be emitted only over a limited range of wavelengths. The
result is a relatively
pure visible color with a width at half maximum for the emission spectrum of
approximately
70 nm. The emission is limited to the visible wavelength range, so no energy
is wasted in the
near infrared.
22
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
[0081] The exemplary electroluminescent phosphors mentioned above come in
a
discrete set of colors. These may be described by the colors corresponding to
the
approximate wavelength of the maximum of their emission. For example, for
operation at
110Vmõ at 400Hz, "blue" phosphors experience a maximum emission at about 460
nm, "blue-
green" phosphors experience a maximum emission at about 499 nm, "aviation
green"
phosphors experience a maximum emission at about 510 nm, "green" phosphors
experience a
maximum emission at about 504 nm and "amber" phosphors experience a maximum
emission
at about 584 nm.
[0082] As mentioned above, the color of every electroluminescent lamp
changes as a
function of the driving frequency. The colors described in the preceding
paragraph are
measured at an excitation of 110V,õ 400 Hz. A phosphor that is green at this
point will
become blue if the frequency of the drive is increased. For example, color
changes will begin
to become apparent as the frequency is increased to about 700 Hz and will
become extremely
pronounced at about 1000Hz.. Large relative changes in the voltage can also
introduce slight
alterations in the color, although the effect is much less pronounced than in
the case of
frequency changes. The voltage effect is most noticeable at low voltages.
[0083] A variety of shapes are possible for the electroluminescent element
210 of the =
electroluminescent lamp 200. A preferred embodiment of such a shape is
depicted, for
example, in Fig. 3. As can be seen, element 210 includes a first end 212, a
second end 214
and has a front face 216 and a back face 218. Element 210 further includes a
plurality of
relatively wide emitting portions, or cells 220 connected in series by a
plurality of relatively
narrow emitting portions, or connectors 230. As clearly shown in Fig. 3, the
connector 230
may have a width along the transverse axis W that is less than the width along
the transverse
axis W of at least one of the cells 220. The plurality of cells 220 may have
an average width
along the transverse axis W, for example, between about three quarters of an
inch and about
23
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
one eighth of an inch. More preferably, the plurality of cells 220 may have an
average width
along the transverse axis between about one half of an inch and about one
quarter of an inch.
Even more preferably, the cells 220 have an average width along the transverse
axis of about
one quarter of an inch.
[0084] As further depicted in Fig. 3, the relatively narrow emitting
segments, or
connectors 230, may have an average width along the transverse axis W that is
between about
three quarters and about one quarter the width of an adjacent cell 220. If
desired, the
connector 230 may have an average width along the transverse axis W that is
about half the
width of an adjacent relatively wide emitting segment. For example, for the
element 210
depicted in Fig. 3, the connector 230 has a width along the transverse axis of
about one-
eighth of an inch.
[0085] The connector 230 preferably has a length along the longitudinal
axis L that is
less than the length along the longitudinal axis of at least one of the cells
220. If desired, the
cells 220 may have an average length along the longitudinal axis L between
about three
inches and about one half of an inch. More preferably, the cells 220 have an
average length
along the longitudinal axis between about two inches and about one inch. Most
preferably,
the plurality of cells 220 have an average length along the longitudinal axis
L of about one
and one half inches. As depicted in Fig. 3, each cell is about one and three-
eighths of an inch
long by about a quarter of an inch wide.
[0086] The connectors 230 can have an average length along the
longitudinal axis L
that is between about three quarters and about one quarter the length of an
adjacent cell 220.
More preferably, the connector 230 has an average length along the
longitudinal axis L that is
about one third the length of an adjacent relatively wide emitting segment. As
depicted in
Fig. 3, each connecting portion is about half an inch long by about one eighth
of an inch
wide.
24
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
[0087] As further depicted, for example, in Fig. 3, electroluminescent
lamp 200
further includes a plurality of electrical conductors 222, 224 operably
coupled to the
electroluminescent element 210. Electrical conductors 222, 224 are operably
coupled to an
alternating current power source, described in detail below. As depicted,
conductor 222 is
connected to a first conductor 226 embedded in the element 210 and conductor
224 is =
connected to a second conductor 228 that is applied to the back side 218 of
the element 210.
Thus, when an alternating current is applied across the element 210 using the
conductors 222,
224, the phosphors are excited and caused to emit light at a desired
wavelength as described
above.
[0088] Furthermore, as depicted in Fig. 2, the electroluminescent lamp 200
further
includes a power source 240 operably coupled to the electroluminescent element
210 by way
of the plurality of electrical conductors 222, 224. The power source 240
preferably includes
at least one battery 242 operably coupled to the electrical conductors by way
of an electrical
inverter 244. If desired, the battery 242 may be rechargeable and/or removable
from the
device. In accordance with the embodiment of Fig. 1(A), the battery 242 and
the inverter 244
are located in a housing 246 that is affixed to the webbing 108 by way of a
NOMEXTm loop
that is oriented in the direction of the webbing. As such, the housing 246 can
be removed
from the loop 214 to facilitate the replacement of the battery 242.
Alternatively, if desired,
the entire housing 246 may be connected to conductors 222, 224 by a removable
electrical
connector 248 to permit housing 246 to be placed in a charging station to
facilitate recharging
the battery.
[0089] As depicted, the electrical inverter 244 is interposed in a circuit
between the
battery(ies) 242 and the electroluminescent element 210. A variety of
different inverters may
be used. In accordance with one example, a IM - 3 Inverter may be used,
commercially
available from Elam El Industries, Ltd., of Jerusalem, Israel. (Tel.: 02-
5328888; website:
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
vv-ww.elam.co.i1). Such a housing 246 including an inverter 244 and battery
compartment
containing batteries 242 is depicted in Fig. 4. The inverter 244 depicted in
Fig. 4, as
depicted, accepts two "AAA" batteries and operates between about 2.5 and 3.0
volts,
generating output signals in the kilohertz regime. The specifications of the
1M-3 power
supply are presented in Table 1 below:
TABLE 1
Operating Characteristics of Exemplary Power Supply With Inverter
Input Input Current Output Voltage Frequency
(VDC) (mA) (Vrms) (kHz)
2.5 30 80 3.7
2.5 38 72 3.0
2.5 40 70 2.7
3.0 40 96 3.8
3.0 47 85 3.0
3.0 50 81 2.8
Tolerance +/- 10% +1_ 5% +/- 5%
[0090] As depicted in Fig. 4, the inverter 244 is operably coupled to a
switch 249.
The switch 249 can be adapted and configured to permit selection of at least
one operating
mode of the lamp 200. For example, by using the switch 249, various operating
modes such
as constant and intermittent operation can be selected, among others. For
example, lamp 200
can be adapted and configured to transmit a distress signal in thç second or a
subsequent
operating mode (e.g., "S.O.S."). By way of further example, lamp 200 can also
transmit an
optical signal that is unique to the wearer. The signal can be any pattern of
signals (e.g.,
Morse code) or can simply be a repeating pattern of a set number of flashes,
such as one, two,
three, four, five or more flashes separated by a predetermined time that the
lamp is off. In
this manner, for example, if "five" firefighters are in a building, each
firefighter can identify
each other by the number of flashes emitted by lamp 200 in each cycle.
26
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
[0091] In accordance with one embodiment, lamp 200 can emit light for more
than
about eight hours before the battery 242 requires charging or replacement. In
accordance
with another embodiment, lamp 200 can emit light for more than about ten hours
during an
operating mode that provides constant illumination. In accordance with still
another
embodiment of the invention, lamp 200 can emit light for more than about forty
hours during
an operating mode that provides intermittent illumination.
[0092] In further accordance with the invention, the device may include an
encasement adapted and configured to house the electroluminescent element.
[0093] For purposes of illustration and not limitation, as embodied herein
and as
depicted in Fig. 2, an encasement 250 is provided including a base layer 260'
and a lens layer
270 of flexible material bonded together to define a compartment 252 between
the layers
adapted and configured to receive the electroluminescent element 210. The
compartment 252
may be defined by a seal 254 about its periphery. The seal 254 may include at
least one of a
heat seal, a solvent weld, an ultrasonic weld, stitching and an adhesive seal,
among others.
At least one of the layers (260, 270) of the encasement 250 includes polymeric
material.
Preferably, all layers of the encasement 250 include some amount of polymeric
material,
which can facilitate forming and maintaining seal 254. Preferably, the
polymeric material
used to form layers (e.g., 260, 270) is fire resistant. A number of suitable
polymeric
materials can be used, including various vinyl materials that are fire rated,
as are known in
the art.
[0094] As mentioned above, the encasement 250 preferably includes a base
layer 260
upon which the electroluminescent element 210 is positioned. Base layer 260
preferably
includes retroreflective material. For example, the base layer 260 may include
a plurality of
microprism reflective elements 262 integrally bonded to a polymeric matrix. In
accordance
with one embodiment, the retroreflective material of the base layer 260 has a
retroreflective
27
CA 02675089 2013-11-21
value in excess of 350 cd/lux/m2 (op!) when measured in accordance with NEPA
1971, 2000
edition. Preferably, the layer 260 has a retroreflective value of about 650
cd/lux/m2 (cpl).
The base layer 260 may also include a layer 264 of fabric-reinforced polymeric
backing
material. A suitable commercially available material includes, for example,
REFLEXITE
material, such as that described in U.S. Patent No. 4,801,193, U.S. Patent No.
4,244,683, U.S.
Patent No. 4,243,618, U.S. Patent No. 4,202,600, U.S. Patent No. 4,555,161,
U.S. Patent No.
5,171,624, U.S. Patent No. 5,264,063 and/or U.S. Patent No. 5,229,882.
Such material is commercially
available from Reflexite Americas of New Britain, CT 06051 (Tel.: (860) 223-
9297) in the
form, for example, of one-inch wide yellow retroreflective material. This -
REFLEXITE
material pass:es the NTI2PA 1981 Heat Test & Flame Test and demonstrates self-
extinguishing
properties.
[0095] By way of further example, if desired, base layer 260 of the
encasement 250
may additionally or alternatively include photoluminescent retroreflective
material. Such
materials are described, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 5,415,911, U.S.
Patent No.
6,159,878, U.S, Patent No. 6,569,786, and U.S. Patent No. 6,656,566.
The photolurnineseent retroreflective,
material is preferably charged by exposure to ultraviolet light. Preferably,
the retroretlective
photoluminescent material includes photoluminescent elements including
strontium
aluminate, Other materials, such as zinc sulfide photoluminescent elements may
also be
used. Comparatively speaking, strontium alurninate retroreflective material
tends to have a
higher brightness and longer afterglow, which may be desirable in certain
applications.
These photoluminescent crystals (e.g., strontium aluminate) may be are cast
into a polymeric
material such as a pliable PVC vinyl, and used in a manner similar to the
REFLEX1TE
material, Such material is commercially available, for example, from Lanxi
Minhul
28
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
Photoluminescent Co., Ltd., of No.18,Yuezhong Street, Lanxi, Zhejiang
Province, China
(Tel.: 86-579-8948789 / 8948900 / 8988198;
website:http://wvvw.mphotoluminescent.com).
[0096] The Lanxi Minhui photoluminescent retroreflective vinyl has a
reflective
value of 650 cd / lux / m2 (cpl). Its flame resistance and temperature
resistance complies
with all the requirements of the NFPA 1971, 2000 edition and has a melting
point of
approximately 500 F. High resistance against deformation in high temperature
enables this
material to maintain its performance. One of the reasons for this stability is
that this product
has been stably crystallized at a high temperature so that the
photoluminescent property can
be preserved with a superior anti chemical resistance in high (e.g., 1,200 F)
and low (-20 F)
temperatures. The photo-luminescent and illuminant performances of this
material are
preserved semi-permanently with no deterioration even under direct sunlight.
In addition,
this material has a resistance to a variety of chemicals such as heptane,
Me0H, NaOH,
gasoline, kerosene, and mineral oil without any evidence of blistering or
dissolving.
[0097] As indicated above, charging the photoluminescent retroreflective
material
described above can occur in various ways. For example, exposure to sunlight
or flame can
cause the material to fully charge in about five minutes. In overhead neon
lighting it can take
about fifteen minutes for the material to fully charge. Under exposure to a
sixty watt light
bulb it can take about forty-five minutes for the material to fully charge.
[0098] An individual wearing the utility strap/tool band 100 including
lamp 200, for
example utilizing this retroreflective photoluminescent technology may benefit
dramatically
as the luminescent light source could decrease the need for battery power, as
it may be
decided that a quality after-glow is all that is required for conspicuity.
More importantly, the
illumination generated by the electroluminescent element 210 will be able to
charge its own
retroreflective photoluminescent encasement 250. Thus, in the instance that
the power source
to operate the electroluminescent element 210 dies, the charge gained by the
29
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
photoluminescent retroreflective encasement 250 presents a unique and
effective redundancy.
Moreover, the introduction of flame in work environments where some users
(e.g.,
firefighters) can present a benefit to the user, in that the UV light
generated from flame can
charge the photoluminescent material of the encasement 250.
[00991 The particular photoluminescent retroreflective material described
herein may
be light yellow-green in color, and may similarly glow yellow-green in color,
for example.
As indicated above, the main component is preferably alkaline earth metal
aluminate oxide.
Its exciting wavelength is between about 200 nm and about 450nm. The average
size of the
photoluminescent particles is between about 45 microns and about 65 microns.
Water
resistance of the material is in excess of 1000 hours, and the length of the
afterglow may be
in excess of 3000 minutes. The corresponding brightness and afterglow may be
as follows.
About two minutes after charging, the material exhibits a brightness of about
1880 mcd/m2.
About ten minutes after charging, the material exhibits a brightness of about
475 mcd/m2.
About thirty minutes after charging, the material exhibits a brightness of
about 165 mcd/m2.
About sixty minutes after charging, the material exhibits a brightness of
about 80 mcd/m2.
1001001 A clear lens layer 270 is then affixed to the base layer 260,
trapping the
electroluminescent element 210 between the two layers. The lens layer 270 is
preferably
formed from a vinyl material. Even more preferably, the lens layer 270 is heat
resistant, and
permits passage of visible light and ultraviolet light therethrough without
significantly
altering its properties. This is of particular importance if ultraviolet light
is needed to charge
a base layer 260 including photoluminescent retroreflective material.
[00101] In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, the
electroluminescent
lamp 200 may be adapted and configured to emit a majority of photons in a
wavelength range
surrounding about 500nm. Example I below has been carried out to show this and
further
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
illustrate the invention claimed, and is not intended to limit the invention
disclosed herein in
any way.
=
EXAMPLE I
SPECTRAL ENERGY DISTRIBUTION OF LAMP
Spectral Power Distribution
[00102] Light may be precisely characterized by giving the power of the
light at each
wavelength in the visible spectrum. The resulting spectral power distribution
(SPD) contains
all the basic physical data about the light and serves as the starting point
for quantitative
analyses of color. The SPD can be measured by a spectrophotometer.
[001031 The spectral energy distribution of an exemplary embodiment of a
lamp 200
made in accordance with the teachings herein was tested to determine its
spectral energy
distribution by an independent lighting testing laboratory. The spectral
distribution test was
performed with an input voltage to the inverter 244 of about 2.85 V(DC), an
input current of
about 144 mA (DC) an input power of 410 mW. A complete assembly with an
encasement
250 was tested, having lens layer 270 in place. To perform the test, the
following equipment
was used by an independent testing laboratory: (i) a Xitron 2503 Power
Analyzer, (ii) an
Optronic Laboratories 0L770 Spectroradiometer, (3) an ITL (Independent Testing
Laboratories, Boulder, CO) 30" Diameter integrating sphere and (4) a Topward
3306D DC
power supply. The sample device was mounted inside of the integrating sphere
and operated
at 2.85 V(DC) until stabilization occurred. The relative spectral distribution
and electrical
data were then recorded. In order to measure the mean performance', five data
sets were
recorded and averaged. Readings were taken with the sample operating in a 25
+/- 5 degree
31
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
Celsius free air ambient condition. Applicant has been informed that all data
taken is
traceable to the National Institute of Standards and Technology.
[00104] The data
resulting from the independent testing is depicted in Table 2 below
and is plotted in Fig. 5.
=
TABLE 2
Measured Spectral Distribution of Exemplary Electroluminescent Lamp
Wave- Percent of Wave- Percent of Wave- Percent
of
length Integrated length Integrated
length Integrated
(nm) Radiant Flux for (nm) Radiant Flux for (nm) Radiant Flux
for
each 5nm each 5nm each 5nm
wavelength wavelength wavelength
window (%) window (%) window (%)
380 0.34749 515 4.27734 650 0.03827
385 0.38194 520 4.02709 655 0.03579
390 0.39478 525 3.70739 660 0.03565
395 0.48253 530 3.35136 665 0.03339
400 0.44254 535 2.96975 670 0.01982
405 0.30381 540 2.60528 675 0.02021
410 0.30608 545 2.23733 680 0.02657
415 0.41334 550 1.90088 685 0.01747
420 0.66301 555 1.59871 690 0.01.823
425 0.99008 560 1.32491 695 = 0.01608
430 1.39020 565 1.08739 700 0.01361
435 1.80125 570 0.89697 705 0.01577
440 2.19734 575 0.72165 710 0.01059
445 2.58515 580 0.59057 715 0.01597
450 2.90591 585 0.48425 720 0.00812
455 3.21744 590 0.38872 725 0.01237
460 3.49706 595 0.31372 730 0.01397
465 3.72746 600 0.25337 735 0.01156
470 3.94573 605 0.20957 740 0.01008
475 4.18883 610 0.16386 745 0.00793
480 4.32491 615 0.13685 750 0.01257
485 4.48174 620 0.11056 755 0.00770
490 4.57953 625 0.09016 760 0.00944
495 4.63655 = 630 0.07892 765 0.00613
500 4.63298 635 0.06722 770
0.00893 .
505 4.58236 640 0.06078 775 0.00904
-
510 4.44016 645 0.04946 780 0.00045
-
32
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
[00105] As can be seen, the lamp 200 that was tested demonstrated a maximum
of
light output near 500 nm. For the reasons discussed below, it is believed that
the specific
spectral distribution of lamp 200 is particularly advantageous in low light
and/or smoky
conditions.
[00106] The human visual system comprises two types of photoreceptor (cones
and
rods), which operate under different lighting conditions. In fact, there are
different
experimentally derived curves that demonstrate the sensitivity of the retina
to light under
different lighting conditions. A first curve describes "photopic" conditions
(when light is
plentiful) and a second curve describes "scotopic" conditions (when light is
scarce). As one
moves from photopic to scotopic conditions or vice versa, there is also a
third curve, called
the "mesopic" curve. Mesopic vision applies quite commonly (e.g. under road
lights at
night). During the daytime (i.e., a "photopic" condition), nearly all
photopigments in the rods
are effectively "bleached". At this time, the human eye sees color and acuity
is high (because
of foveal vision). At night, "scotopic" vision is generally determined by
rods. At this time,
the human eye generally does not see color and acuity is generally low. In
effect, the human
eye has two functionally separate retinas ¨ one for photopic conditions, and
one for scotopic
conditions.
[00107] With regard to cones, there are three types of color-sensitive
cones in the
retina of the human eye, corresponding roughly to red, green, and blue
sensitive detectors.
Experiments known in the art have yielded response curves for three different
kind of cones
in the retina of the human eye. The "green" and "red" cones are mostly packed
into the fovea
centralis. By population, about 64% of the cones are red-sensitive, about 32%
green
sensitive, and about 2% are blue sensitive. Interestingly, the "blue" cones
have the highest
sensitivity and are mostly found outside the fovea. The shapes of the curves
are obtained by
33
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997
PCT/US2007/000653
measurement of the absorption by the cones, but the relative heights for the
three types are set
equal for lack of detailed data.
[00108] Notably, at extremely low intensities of stimuli, when only rods
are
stimulated, the retina shows a variable sensitivity to light according to its
wavelength, being
most sensitive at about 500 nm, the absorption maximum of the rod visual
pigment,
rhodopsin.
[00109] The light sensitivity of the normal human eye has been studied
extensively in
scientific literature. The response of the eye as a function of frequency is
called the luminous
efficacy of the eye. It has been tabulated for both the light-adapted
("photopic") case and the
dark-adapted ("scotopic") case. Table III below depicts the luminous efficacy
of the human
eye for the "scotopic" and "photopic" cases.
TABLE III
Luminous Efficacy Table for Human Retina
Photopic Photopic Scotopic Scotopic
Wavelength
Luminous Conversion Luminous
Conversion
X (nm)
Efficacy V?, Im/W Efficacy VA. Im/W
380 0.000039 0.027 0.000589 1.001
390 0.000120 0.082 0.002209 3.755
390 0.000120 0.082 0.002209 3.755
400 0.000396 0.270 0.009290 15.793
= 410 0.001210 0.826 0.034840
59.228
420 0.004000 2.732 0.096600 164.220
430 0.011600 7.923 0.199800 339.660
440 0.023000 15.709 0.328100 557.770
450 0.038000 25.954 0.455000 773.500
460 0.060000 40.980 0.567000 963.900
470 0.090980 62.139 0.676000 1149.200
480 0.139020 94.951 0.793000 1348.100
490 0.208020 142.078 0.904000 1536.800
500 0.323000 220.609 0.982000 1669.400
507 0.444310 303.464 1.000000 1700.000
510 0.503000 343.549 0.997000 1694.900
520 0.710000 484.930 0.935000 1589.500
530 0.862000 588.746 0.811000 1378.700
540 0.954000 651.582 0.655000 1105.000
550 0.994950 679.551 0.481000 817.700
34
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
555 1.000000 683.000 0.402000 683.000
560 0.995000 679.585 0.328800 558.960
570 0.952000 650.216 0.207600 352.920
580 0.870000 594.210 0.121200 206.040
[00110] As can be
seen, peak sensitivity for the scotopic case is at about 507nm as
viewed by an observer. Notably, this peak is extraordinarily close to the peak
of 500 nm for
lamp 200. Stated another way, the spectral distribution of the lamp is
extremely similar to the
sensitivity range of the human eye under scotopic conditions_ As such, lamp
200 is
particularly well suited performance in a dark and/or smoky environment. While
the
electroluminescent lamp 200 is adapted and configured to emit generally blue
light, a
significant amount of light having generally green wavelengths are also
preferably present.
Such emission can be ensured by selecting an appropriate frequency for
powering the
electroluminescent lamp, as described herein.
1001111 As is known in the art, photons lose energy as they traverse a
medium, such as
a smoky medium. As such, having a lamp 200 or other lighting device with a
spectral power
distribution having a maximum at an energy slightly higher than that the
maximum
sensitivity of the human eye can be advantageous, as the light will lose
energy as it passes
through the medium, permitting enhanced detection by an observer.
EXAMPLE II
LIGHT OUTPUT OF LAMP
[00112] It is believed that the above conclusions are bolstered by the fact
that the
intensity of the light output of lamp 200 is low, yet surprisingly visible. In
actual use, lamp
200 has very little glare and is not blinding, even at very close distances
(e.g., six inches).
Yet, lamp 200 is still highly visible in dark smoky environments that do not
permit a
firefighter to see their hand in front of their face.
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
[00113] The light output of an exemplary lamp 200 was tested to quantify
the intensity
of the output. The testing was performed by an independent laboratory. Lamp
200 was
attached to tool band 100 and centered at the front of a helmet. The helmet,
in turn, was
positioned in a testing jig adapted and configured to measure the light
intensity put out by the
lamp 200 at various points of an imaginary "sphere" surrounding the helmet.
The element
210 of the lamp 200 was centered at the "equator" of the imaginary "sphere" at
0 degrees
longitude on the sphere (e.g., the "prime meridian" of the sphere). Intensity
measurements
were then taken over one hemisphere, starting at 0 degrees longitude and
proceeding to 180
degrees longitude in increments of 45 degrees longitude. Along each line of
longitude, 21
light intensity measurements were taken between 0 degrees (i.e., the "South
pole" of the
sphere) and 180 degrees (i.e., the "North pole" of the sphere) in angular
increments of five
degrees. A flux measurement integrated about the vertical axis of the sphere
was measured
for angular increments of every ten degrees of latitude and expressed in
lumens. The
measured intensity values and flux values are reported below in Table IV:
TABLE IV
Spherical Candela Distribution and Flux of Lamp
Candela Distribution Flux
(lumens)
Vertical Angle 0 45 90 135 180
(degrees) degrees degrees degrees degrees degrees
longitude longitude longitude longitude longitude
0 (south pole) 0 0 0 0 0
3 1 1 1 . 0 0
3 2 2 1 0 . 0
3 3 6 2 0 2
3 27 26 5 0 9
37 55 44 9 0 24
86 82 57 15 0 44
110 108 68 19 0 61
123 121 75 21 0 72
129 127 78 22 0 79
130 126 78 21 0
129 124 76 20 0 79 ,
36
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
,
105 126 121 74 20 0 74
115 115 109 67 18 0 62
125 = 100 95 60 15 0 49
135 81 76 49 11 0 34
145 61 54 35 8 0 19
155 36 31 19 5 0 9
165 16 12 7 2 0 2
175 6 4 2 2 0 0
180(north pole) 0 0 0 0 0
* Note: Divide all Candela and Lumen values by 1000
[00114] These data are also plotted in Fig. 6. Fig. 6 depicts the
intensity values along
the 0 degree meridian from the top of the "sphere" (180 degrees) in 15 degree
vertical
increments to the bottom of the sphere (0 degrees). As can be seen, the peak
intensity for the
lamp 200 (as measured) is about 0.13 Candela at the "equator". Nonetheless,
lamp 200 is still
highly visible in a dark, smoky environment.
[00115] The data summarizing the zonal lumens over the sphere are
presented below in
Table V. The amount of light output in lumens is integrated for each vertical
angular section.
For example, the first entry of "0-30" integrates the total number of lumens
passing through
the area of the surface of an imaginary sphere defined between the south pole
(0 degrees) and
30 degrees of latitude above the south pole, and so forth. The right column of
Table V
depicts the percentage of total lumens passing through each section.
TABLE V
,
Integrated Zonal Lumen Summary
Zonal Lumen Summary
Zone Lumens Percent of Total Light
Output
0-30 2 0.3
0-40 11 1.7
0-60 78 12.6
0-90 290 46.9
90-120 215 34.7
90-130 264 42.7
90-150 317 51.3
90-180 328 53.1
0-180 618 100.0
* Note: Divide all Candela and Lumen values by 1000.
37
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
[001161 As can be seen from the data in Table V above, 46.9% of the total
light output
was received by the lower "hemisphere" while the remaining 53.1% of the total
light output
was received by the upper "hemisphere".
[001171 Field experience has shown that lamp 200 is even visible in a
"black smoke"
condition from up to about six feet away. This distance is sufficient for
firefighters to see
each other that are progressing through a burning structure in close proximity
to one another.
[001181 In accordance with still a further aspect of the invention, an
article of clothing
is provided having an electroluminescent lamp as described herein.
[00119] For purposes of illustration and not limitation, as embodied
herein, and as
depicted in Figs. 7-8, any suitable apparel can be fitted with one or more
electroluminescent
lamps 200. For example, a jacket 510, pair of trousers 520 and/or footwear may
be fitted
with one or more lamps 200 as described herein and as depicted in Fig. 7. The
apparel may
include turn out gear and boots for firefighters, but may also include
conventional athletic
apparel. As described above, lamp 200 is highly visible at night. As such,
individuals
wearing lamp 200 in the darkness (e.g., joggers and the like) can benefit
greatly from this
technology. It will be appreciated that device 200 may be applied to bicycles,
baby strollers,
carts, slow moving vehicles and the like. It will also be appreciated that the
shape of
electroluminescent element 210 can be of any suitable shape. For example,
element 210 can
be shaped to form designs, words, characters and athletic logos, such as the
Nike brand
"swish" logo. Preferably, element 210 is driven as described herein to have a
spectral energy
distribution similar to those depicted in the Examples above.
[00120] By way of further example, as depicted in Fig. 8, various helmets
500 may be
provided including a generally rigid protective shell 502, and an
electroluminescent
conspicuity device such as lamp 200 described herein. It will be appreciated
that lamp 200
may be provided in one or more suitable lengths. While lamp 200 can be
disposed around the
38
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
entire periphery of a helmet generally, in the case of a fire helmet it is
advantageous to not
expose lamp 200 or its supporting circuitry (contained, e.g., in housing 246)
to the
particularly high heat conditions experienced by the front, flame-facing
surface of a fire
helmet. Thus, lamp 200 may be disposed about less than the entire periphery of
the helmet.
For example, lamp 200 may be disposed about more than about 40% and less than
about 90%
of the periphery of the helmet. It will be appreciated that lamp 200 can be
integrated into
myriad other types of helmets, such as bicycle helmets, construction hard
hats, athletic
helmets such as football and hockey helmets, and the like.
[00121] The invention also provides a conspicuity device including a band
adapted and
configured to be mounted to an object and a laser beacon mounted on the band.
[00122] For purposes of illustration and not limitation, as embodied herein
and as
depicted in Fig. 1, band 100 is provided with laser beacon 300.
[00123] As depicted in Fig. 1, the laser beacon 300 is rotatably mounted to
the band by
way of a pivoting bracket 310 that is clipped or otherwise attached to band
100. If desired,
the laser beacon 300 may be mounted in a loop 114 attached to the band 100. By
way of
further example, as depicted in Fig. 9(A), the laser beacon 300 may be
pivotally mounted and
weighted (e.g., by a pendulum 320) to direct a beam 350 vertically upward when
in use to
form a signal beacon. It will be appreciated that the weight of the laser
beacon 300 itself may
be used as a pendulum. As shown in Fig. 9(A), laser beacon 300 is situated in
a mounting
bracket 380 having a floating spherical retainer 382 mounted in a frame 384
having an
interior spherical surface 386. Beacon 300 is received by an opening 388
defined in spherical
retainer 382. As can be seen, bracket 380 permits beacon 300 to rotate through
a cone of
operation defined by solid angle A. By weighting the laser beacon 300 and/or
mounting it in
such a manner, it will always point the beam 350 in an upward direction. If
desired, bracket
380 may also have a pivot 389 that permits it to rotate about an axis X as
well. This will
=
39
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
ensure that beacon 300 will point upwards, even when the user bends forward at
the waist.
This is advantageous, as it can prevent a wearer of the laser beacon from
shining the laser
toward another individual inadvertently, such as by bending over. The laser
beacon 300 can
be adapted and configured to emit light in a variety of wavelengths. For
example, the laser
beacon 300 can emit, green, blue or violet light beams 350, among others.
[00124] Moreover, the beam 350 emitted from the laser beacon 300 can have
a variety
of shapes and sizes. For example, the laser beacon 300 can emit a
substantially collimated
beam 350 of light or a diverging beam of light, as desired. The beam 350 is
preferably
sufficiently wide to permit suitable use as a signal beacon for observers
relatively nearby
when used in indoor applications (e.g., 10-100 feet), and/or observers far
away in outdoor
applications (e.g., 100-10000 feet). For example, in accordance with one
embodiment, the
laser beacon 300 is preferably adapted and configured to emit a beam 350
having a diameter
in excess of about one centimeter at a point in the beam more than five feet
from the laser.
[00125] In further accordance with the invention, as depicted in Fig.
9(B), the laser
beacon 300 can include a laser generator 330 adapted and configured to
generate a
substantially parallel beam 350, and a first lens 360 downstream (i.e., down
beam) from the
laser generator 330 adapted and configured to cause the parallel beam 350 to
diverge as it
passes through the first lens 360. Accordingly, lens 360 may be a "plano-
convex" lens. If
desired, the laser can further include a housing 340 for holding the first
lens 360 and laser
generator 330, and a second lens 370 disposed in the path of the beam 350
downstream from
the first lens 360. The second lens 370 is preferably adapted and configured
to cause the
diverging beam passing from the first lens 360 to become substantially
collimated, or to
control its divergence, as desired, depending on the specific optical
components used. If
desired, the distance along the beam path between the first lens 360 and
second lens 370 can
be adjusted to change the diameter and/or divergence of the beam 350 emitted
by the laser
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
beacon 300. For example, the distance between the lenses 360, 370 may be
adjusted by.
rotating a first portion 342 of the housing with respect to a second portion
of the housing 344.
Accordingly, for example, the diameter of the beam 350 leaving the laser can
be adjusted
from a diameter of about one eighth of an inch to a diameter of about one half
inch, if a
substantially collimated beam is desired. By way of further example, using
appropriate
lensing, adjustment of the optics can provide an optical "signal cone" of
varying degrees,
from a relatively narrow "cone" to a relatively "broad" one in any suitable
angular
increments, or continuous angular increments.
[00126] In operation, beam 350 can make air in the path of the beam
effectively
"glow." For example, if a photon of appropriate wavelength interacts with
electron of a gas
molecule in the air, the electron's energy can be raised to a higher quantum
state. Shortly
thereafter, the electron will return to its ground state, emitting a photon in
the process. It will
be appreciated that the light so emitted by the electrons in gas molecules
present in air is not
"laser" light as it is diffuse, however, it may have a color characteristic
similar to the laser
beam shining through it. By way of further example, beacon 300 can be
outfitted with
appropriate optics to supply a planar or conical moving beam. Such beams are
highly visible
in low light and/or smoky conditions.
[00127] If desired, the housing 340 of the laser beacon 300 may define a
compartment
346 for receiving a battery 348 for powering the laser beacon 300.
Additionally or
alternatively, a power lead 347 can be provided for providing power to another
active
electrical accessory on tool band 100 and/or for drawing power from an
external power
source, such as light 400 described herein. If desired, the laser beacon 300
may also be
configured to operate in a plurality of operating modes by way of a switch 349
as With the
electroluminescent lamp 200. For example, the laser beacon 300 can be operated
in a first
operating mode wherein the laser is. on constantly, and a second operating
mode wherein the
41
CA 02675089 2013-11-21
laser blinks. If desired, the laser beacon 300 may be adapted and configured
to transmit a
signal in the second operating mode, such as a distress signal and/or an
identification signal
that uniquely identifies the user of the beacon. Such a distress or
identification signal can be
particularly useful if laser beacon 300 is being used by an individual in a
forest fire. The
beam 350 of laser can be seen.by rescue aircraft from many miles away, and can
facilitate
pinpointing the location of such an individual if the individual's global
positioning system
malfunctions.
[001281 An example of a suitable laser flare is the Green Rescue Laser
Flare
commercially available from Greatland Laser, LLC of Anchorage, Alaska.
Examples of such
lasers are described, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 6,688,755, U.S. Patent
No. 6,295,007,
U.S. Patent No. 6,280,057, U.S. Patent No. 6,163,247 and U.S. Patent No.
6,007,219.
Such device is an FDA
approved Class III-A laser under 5mW of power designed to signal persons at a
distance.
This laser can be legally used as a distress signal in an emergency, and can
also be used for
training under established Federal rules. The Rescue Laser Flare is visible
at distances of
up to thirty miles, and demonstrates effective conspicuity and has effectively
been able to get
the attention of search and rescue pilots in various case by case accounts.
The ability, for
example, of a forest fire fighter to effectively signal a rescue party up to
30 miles (48 km)
away, depending on atmospheric conditions; by way of a helmet mounted tool
baud 100 can
actually be critical to survival. Embodiments of the Rescue Laser Flare are
waterproof up
to 80 feet, and made from machined aircraft aluminum and anodized for
corrosion resistance.
The laser diode lasts about 5,000 hours prior to failure. This device can be
safely operated
with persons at a distance greater than 13 feet (4 meters). The laser can
operate continuously
for over five hours in a constant mode or 10 hours in a blink mode using fully
charged
batteries. The specifications of this particular device are presented in Table
VI below:
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
TABLE VI
Range 25-30 Miles
Output power 55mW
Class
Operating voltage 3V
Output model CW
Average loop <550mA
Battery source 2xAAA Batteries
Dimensions 13x143mm
Laser lifetime 3000-5000 hours
Battery lifetime 2.5 Hours
Crystal efficiency Very good to excellent
Beam divergence <1.2mRad
[00129] It will be appreciated that while this laser does not embody all of
the features
described herein (for example, optical beam divergence and the like), this or
a similar laser
may be modified accordingly.
[00130] This laser technology is believed to be helpful in situations where
there is low
visibility due to smoke. For example, in many instances, the only way to "see"
a laser, with
the use of a laser's beam, is to shine it through a cloud of smoke, chalk
dust, mist, etc. in a
dimly-lit space. The small particles in the cloud act as tiny diffuse surfaces
which scatter part
of the beam toward your eyes. Dust particles usually create a sparkling effect
as they float
through the beam. Technically, what one is actually seeing are the particles
in the cloud, not
the beam itself. Therefore, in shorter distances such as 10 to 30 Feet, less
powerful lasers can
offer emergency service workers the ability to help to target themselves so
that others can
locate them in a smoke condition more easily. This will enable those entering
into smoke
filled environments to have better orientation of each other helping to
prevent anyone from
getting lost.
[00131] This Green Rescue Laser Flare can be attached to band 100 in a
variety of
ways. For example, it may simply be mounted in a loop 114 as described herein.
By way of
further example, it may be enclosed in a cloth encasement or pouch. By way of
further
43
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
example, laser beacon 300 may be mounted on an adjustable platform or fixture
310, such as
a pivoting bracket and/or a plastic encasement that can adjust to various
positions as depicted
in Fig. 10(A). As also mentioned above, pendulum positioning may be provided
in a number
of ways with a counterweight. The counterweight can even be the laser itself,
if desired.
Unlike, pyrotechnic flares, laser beacon 300 is non-flammable and non-
hazardous.
[00132] If desired, as embodied herein, an electroluminescent lamp (such
as lamp 200)
may be mounted on the band 100 to be used in combination with laser 300. Using
laser 300
in combination with lamp 200 can be particularly advantageous. While each
device can be
used to support the same function (e.g., locating a nearby individual), the
laser 300 can also
be used to locate an individual that is far away. An embodiment of such an
arrangement is
depicted in Fig. 10(B)
[00133] As is further depicted in Fig. 1, tool band 100 can be further
outfitted with a
work light 400. Work light 400 can include, for example, a flashlight that is
removable from
tool band 100, or may include a lamp. If desired, work light 400 can also act
as a power
source for other active lighting devices on tool band 100.
[00134] As indicated above, work light 400 is preferably either a
flashlight, such as a
compact torch flashlight or a compact lamp. A compact torch flashlight ranging
from about 4
to 5 inches in length can easily mount on tool band 100 permitting the
projection of work
illumination in front of the user of band 100. Attachment devices may be used
for selective
directional targeting that preferably permits illumination of the space in
front of the user.
Attachment can be accomplished in a variety of ways. It will be appreciated
that the work
light 400 will preferably be positioned on the right or left side of the user
on band 100
thereby directing its beam forward. In accordance with one example, a loop 114
can be
provided defining a passage therethrough along the direction of band 100 that
is adapted and
configured to hold light 400 securely in place. A molded clip and bracket may
also be used
44
CA 02675089 2013-11-21
that allows removability of light 400 and/or aiming of the light. Moreover, a
work light 400
can be fully integrated into band 400 having replaceable batteries and/or a
removable battery
pack.
[00135] An example of one suitable torch flashlight that may be used, is a
compact
torch flashlight called the Helm_ALiteTM Compact Torch commercially available
from the
Helm-A--Lite company in Pointe-Claire, QC, Canada (Tel. (514) 426-9266;
website:
www.helmalite.com). This torch flashlight is about four inches in length and
projects a beam
of light from a one watt lamp including light emitting diodes ("LED's"). The
flashlight
housing is made from heat and flame resistant polycarbonate, is water proof,
impact resistant
and safe to use. This particular torch flashlight is powered with 3 AAA
batteries and has a
burn time of about 15 hours_
[00136] In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, as depicted
in Figs.
11(A)¨ 11(G), a compact lamp 400 can be mounted to the "front" side of the
utility strap/tool
band 100 oriented such that it is on the front of the helmet, opposite the
rear of a user's helmet
where an integrated conspieuity lamp (e.g., 200) may be mounted. Such a
configuration
permits lamp 400 to project work illumination in front of the user.
[00137] An example of a suitable lamp 400 is a compact multiple LED lamp
system
called the FoxfuryTM Signature model, commercially available from Fo_xFury
Action Lighting
(NOAH Systems LLC) of Vista, California (Tel.: (760) 945 4231; website:
www.foxfury.com.). Certain aspects of this lamp are described in U.S. Patent
No. 6,966,66g,
The commercial embodiment of this
lamp 400 is depicted in Figs. 11(A)-1 1(0). The lamp is 6 inches in length and
casts a broad
light designed to satisfy peripheral work light illumination_ This lamp
operates with a
sequence of 2,4 LED's and is made with a heat and flame resistant
polycarbonate, is water
CA 02675089 2013-11-21
proof, impact resistant and intrinsically safe. Lamp illumination is powered
with 4",AA"
batteries and has a burn time of 18 hours.
[00138] In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, as depicted in
Figs.
12(A)-12(F), the work light 400 may be a torch flashlight include a direct
current power
source 410 such as a battery or a capacitor bank, a lamp 420 operably coupled
to the power
source 410, and an electrical inverter 430 operably coupled to the battery 410
for converting
direct current to alternating current. Inverter 430 can be independent of the
work light (Fig.
12(F)), integrated with the work light when it illuminates (Fig. 12(B)), or
can be configured
into an inverter "head" 432 that plugs into battery 410. Preferably, battery
410 is
rechargeable and may be provided with a charging stand (not depicted). A kit
may be
provided in accordance with the teachings herein, including all components and
accessories
for band 100.
[001391 Work light 400 may further include an electrical port 440 operably
coupled to
the electrical inverter 430 for supplying alternating current to another
device, such as
electrolumineseent lamp 200_ Light 400 can include a variety of direct current
power
supplies 410, such as conventional and/or rechargeable batteries, and the
like. If desired,
work light 400 can also include an electrical generator 450 that can generate
electricity and
store it in battery and/or a capacitor during periods of extended use,
[001401 The generator 450 can be used to generate power, for example, by
shaking the
work light 400 or a removable portion of work light 400 containing the
generator and
battery(ies) or capacitor, by turning a generating crank, and the like.
Suitable examples of
generating schemes are described, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 6,994,450,
U.S. Patent No.
6,914,340, U.S. Patent No. 6,563,269 and U.S. Patent No. 6,322,233.
If desired, the light 400 can also include a
DC power port 442 for powering a DC accessory, such as laser beacon 300
described herein.
46
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
If desired, inverter 430 can be integrally formed with lamp 200 or band 100
and can be
plugged into light 400 to obtain DC power to power the lamp 200 by way of
inverter 430.
[00141] The utility strap /.tool band 100 for helmets provided herein can
be
considered to be a system wherein an electroluminescent illuminated strip
(e.g., 200)
compliments many applications which may involve the use of other technologies.
Although
tool band 100 serves primarily as a conspicuity device, an objective of tool
band 100 outside
of providing conspicuity is to assist users in carrying or incorporating other
functional tools
into band 100 to facilitate achievement of a myriad of task oriented goals. As
depicted, the
electroluminescent lamp 200 integrated into tool band is preferably a
permanent fixture (but
could be removable, if desired). This uniqueness of the design of band 100
embodied herein
offers a variety of components that can be easily plugged-in or removed from
band 100,
thereby providing a modular system having interchangeable components. As will
be
appreciated, the active electrical components contained by band 100 may each
have their own
power source, or may share a power source, as appropriate. It will also be
appreciated that
while a helmet band is a preferred embodiment, tool band 100 and all of its
features described
herein can be embodied as a belt for wearing around a user's midsection, arms,
legs, neck or
head, as appropriate. By way of further example, tool band may also be
configured for use as
a sash or a utility vest, among other configurations.
[00142] For example, an utility strap/tool band 100 for a helmets with an
integrated
electroluminescent lamp 200 may be modularly combined with (i) work lamp
illumination,
(ii) work torch illumination, (iii) a laser beacon (e.g., 300), (iv) an
electrical inverter and (v) a
conventional or rechargeable battery pack, among other features, such as a
global positioning
device, a two-way radio, a portable telephone, an electrical generator, and
the like.
Illustrations of some of these concepts are present in Figs. 12(A) ¨ 12(F).
47
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
[00143] Alternatively, many of the interchangeable components described
above can
also be designed to be an integrated, permanent fixture of band 100.
Preferably, in such a
configuration, most or all of the components can operate from a single power
source such as
a battery pack. Advanced flashlight designs can improve functionality as a
specially
designed torch or lamp can incorporate an inverter and/or a.generator within
its housing as
described herein, enabling a flashlight to have a AC and DC output. It is also
within the
scope of the invention to provide for an integrated flashlight, inverter, and
laser.
[00144] The invention also provides a method of providing improved
conspicuity in an
environment rendered opaque by smoke and/or darkness.
[00145] For purposes of illustration and not limitation, the method
includes providing
an illuminative device (such as lamp 200) to an object to be given
conspicuity, and causing
the illuminative device to emit light having a wavelength equal to or shorter
than about 550
rim. More preferably, the illuminative device emits light having a wavelength
equal to. or
shorter than about 510 nm. If desired, the light emitted by the illuminative
device may have a
wavelength equal to or shorter than about 475 nm. By way of further example,
the light
emitted by the illuminative device may have a wavelength equal to or shorter
than about 445
nm or 400 nm. As the wavelength of the emitted light progresses below 500nm,
the devices
may be more useful in applications where it is desired to view an object from
a long distance
away. If desired, the illuminative device may include a laser beacon (e.g.,
300), a lamp
having an electroluminescent element (e.g., 200) and/or an LED lamp (e.g.,
400), among
others.
[00146] In accordance with still another aspect, the invention provides a
lighting
device including a light source having a spectral energy distribution that is
specifically
adapted and configured to substantially overlap the spectral sensitivity of
the human eye in
one or more viewing conditions.
48
CA 02675089 2009-07-09
WO 2007/081997 PCT/US2007/000653
[00147] For purposes of illustration and not limitation, any suitable light
source can be
used, including passive or active. Suitable active light sources may include a
laser beacon
(e.g., 300), a lamp having an electroluminescent element (e.g., 200) and/or an
LED lamp
(e.g., 400), among others.
[00148] The sensitivity of the human eye in scotopic conditions was
discussed above
in Example I. However, in photopic conditions, the human eye is sensitive to
different,
longer wavelengths. As indicated in Table III above, in photopic conditions,
the human eye
is most sensitive to a wavelength of about 555 rim. Accordingly, lighting
devices are
provided herein that are tailored to the sensitivity of the human eye in
photopic conditions
and mesopic conditions as well as scotopic conditions.
[00149] The spectral energy distribution of the light source may be
specifically
adapted and configured to substantially overlap the spectral sensitivity of
the human eye in
photopic, mesopic and/or scotopic conditions. The overlap of the spectral
distribution of the
light source and the sensitivity of the human eye can be less than or equal to
about 100%,
about 95%, about 90%, about 85%, and so on in any suitable increments (e.g.,
of 1% or 5%
for example) until the overlap ceases to have a performance advantage by
virtue of the
overlap. For example, there may only be a 20% overlap, but the 20% overlap may
lie in a
region of particular sensitivity of the human eye. For example, in darkness
conditions, the
human eye is most sensitive to light having a wavelength of about 507 nm. As
such, a light
having even a small portion of its spectral distribution (e.g., about 10%) at
or near 507 nm
may demonstrate significant visibility.
[00150] As mentioned above, the lighting device may include an active
lighting device
and/or a passive lighting device. By way of further example, if the lighting
device is active, it
may be selected from the group including (i) a running light for a car, (ii)
an illuminated sign,
(iii) an illuminated warning signal (iii) an interior building light, (iv) a
street light, (v) a
49
CA 02675089 2013-11-21
reading light, (vi) a flashlight (vii) a light emitting diode and (viii)
eleetroluminescent
material, among others. If the lighting device is passive, the device may
include
photolurninescent material and/or retroreflective material. If it is passive,
the lighting device
may selected from the group including (i) a surface of a motor vehicle, (ii) a
road sign, (iii) a
fence (iii) an interior surface of a building and (iv) paint, among others.
[001511 The methods and devices provided by the present invention, as
described
above and shown in the drawings, provide for eonspicuity and safety devices
with superior
properties as described herein. It will be apparent to those skilled in the
art that various
modifications and variations can be made in the embodiments of the present
invention
described herein without departing from the scope of the invention. Thus,
it is
intended that the present invention include modifications and variations that
are within the
scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.
