Apparatus and method for aligning a substantial point source of light with a reflector feature

• US 7,264,372 B2
• Filed: 03/16/2004
• Issued: 09/04/2007
• Est. Priority Date: 03/16/2004
• Status: Active Grant

• Current Assignee: MAG Instrument Incorporated
• Original Assignee: MAG Instrument Incorporated
• Inventors: Maglica, Anthony
• Primary Examiner(s): O'Shea; Sandra
• Assistant Examiner(s): HAN, JASON
• Application Number:
  US10/802,265
• Publication Number:
  US 20050207148A1
• Time in Patent Office: 1,267 Days
• Field of Search: 362187-188, 362/197, 362202-208, 362/269, 362/419
• US Class Current: 362/202
• CPC Class Codes: F21L 4/005 the device being a pocket lamp F21L4/022, F21L4/045, F21L4/085 take precedence
• CPC Class Codes: F21L 4/027 the light sources being a LED
• CPC Class Codes: F21V 15/01 Housings, e.g. material or assembling of housing parts F21V15/02 takes precedence housings forming signs or letters G09F13/04
• CPC Class Codes: F21V 19/02 with provision for adjustment, e.g. for focusing
• CPC Class Codes: F21V 19/047 by using spare light sources comprised in or attached to the lighting device and being intended to replace a defect light source by manual mounting
• CPC Class Codes: F21V 23/0414 specially adapted to be used with portable lighting devices
• CPC Class Codes: F21V 31/03 with provision for venting for vehicle head lights F21S45/33; for vehicle rear lights F21S41/192
• CPC Class Codes: F21Y 2101/00 Point-like light sources

Abstract

A combination for use in aligning a substantial point source of light with respect to an axis of a reflector is provided. The combination includes a reflector, a lamp bulb having a substantial point source of light, and a movable lamp bulb holder. The movable holder may be moved using an actuating member. The reflector has a first open end for emitting a light beam, a second end and an axis extending between the first and second reflector ends. The lamp bulb is secured to the movable holder and is disposed about the second end of the reflector. The actuating member is operatively coupled to the movable holder at an actuation interface for moving the substantial point source of light relative to the axis of the reflector and aligning the substantial point source of light with the reflector axis and the focal point of the reflector. Flashlights employing the combination are provided.

Claims

1. A device for projecting a beam of light comprising:

a portable source of power;

a substantial point source of light electrically connected to said source of power;

a reflector having a first open end for emitting a beam of light, a second end and an axis extending therebetween;

a holder positioning said substantial point source of light within said reflector, wherein said holder is movable about at least a first axis, wherein said first axis is not coincident with said axis of said reflector; and

an actuating member operatively connected to said holder to move said holder and align said substantial point source of light with said axis of said reflector, wherein said actuating member is externally accessible by a user for moving said holder.

2. A device of claim 1, wherein said holder is movable about more than one axis.

3. A device of claim 1 wherein said reflector includes a focal point on said reflector axis and said actuator is adapted to move said holder and align said substantial point source of light with said focal point.

4. A device of claim 1, wherein said first axis is substantially perpendicular to said axis of said reflector.

5. A device of claim 1, wherein said portable source of power comprises one or more dry cell batteries.

6. A device of claim 1, wherein said substantial point source of light is positioned on a lamp filament.

7. A device of claim 5, wherein a first housing maintains said one or more dry cell batteries, a second housing maintains said reflector, and a biasing means biasing said one or more batteries toward said second housing.

8. A device of claim 1, wherein said holder can be moved while said substantial point source of light is electrically connected to said source of power.

9. A device of claim 1, wherein said holder includes a substantially spherical housing, wherein said spherical housing moves within a spherical envelope.

10. A device of claim 1 further including a spring biased conductor, wherein said spring biased conductor includes a first conductor receptacle, a second conductor receptacle and a spring, said first conductor receptacle slidably disposed in an inner cavity of said second conductor receptacle with said spring compressed and contained therebetween, said spring urging one of said first conductor receptacle and said second conductor receptacle towards said holder.

11. A device of claim 1, wherein said holder is adapted to align said substantial source of light with said axis of said reflector a first time, and realign said substantial source of light with said axis of said reflector a second time without removing said portable source of power from said device.

12. A device of claim 1, wherein said holder is adapted to be moved a first time, and then be moved a second time without separating said reflector or portable source of power from said device.

13. A device of claim 7, wherein said second housing includes a window, wherein user access to said actuating member is achieved through said window.

14. A flashlight comprising:

a barrel for retaining one or more batteries, said barrel having first and second ends;

a reflector mounted to said first end of said barrel including a first open end adapted to emit a light beam, a second end and a reflector axis extending therebetween;

an illumination source;

a movable holder including a receiver and an actuation interface, wherein said receiver holds said illumination source in a position between said first open end and said second end of said reflector, wherein said actuation interface is used to move said movable holder for adjusting the position of said illumination source relative to said reflector axis, wherein said actuation interface is externally operable by a user for moving said movable holder, wherein said movable holder moves about an actuation axis, wherein said actuation axis is not coincident with said reflector axis; and

an electrical circuit coupling said illumination source to said one or more batteries.

15. A flashlight of claim 14, wherein said actuation interface is configured to receive actuating pressure for moving said movable holder.

16. A flashlight of claim 14, wherein said actuation interface is a socket.

17. A flashlight of claim 14 further including an actuating member coupled to said actuation interface for moving said movable holder, wherein said actuating member is separable from said actuation interface.

18. A flashlight of claim 17, wherein said reflector is fixedly mounted to said barrel.

19. A flashlight of claim 14 further including a sleeve, wherein said sleeve covers said actuation interface when disposed at a first position, and wherein said sleeve uncovers and facilitates access to said actuation interface when disposed at a second position.

20. A flashlight of claim 19, wherein said sleeve is slidable over said barrel.

21. A flashlight of claim 14 further including a switch for completing and interrupting said electrical circuit, wherein said switch is interposed between said one or more batteries and said reflector.

22. A flashlight of claim 19 further including a switch for completing and interrupting said electrical circuit, wherein said switch completes and interrupts said electrical circuit in response to rotation of said head assembly.

23. A flashlight of claim 14 further including a conducting member interposed between said barrel and said head assembly, wherein said conducting member is externally accessible and electrically coupled to said electrical circuit.

24. A flashlight of claim 21, wherein said switch assembly includes a microprocessor.

25. A flashlight of claim 14 further including a conducting member for recharging said one or more batteries without removing said one or more batteries from said barrel, wherein said conducting member is electrically coupled to said electrical circuit.

26. A flashlight of claim 25, wherein said conducting member is interposed between said barrel and said head assembly.

27. A flashlight of claim 25, wherein said conducting member is a ring.

28. A flashlight of claim 14, wherein said barrel forms part of said electrical circuit.

29. A flashlight of claim 14, wherein a cam controls the movement of said movable holder in a direction parallel to said reflector axis.

30. A flashlight of claim 29, wherein said cam rotates about the axis of said reflector.

31. A flashlight of claim 14 further including a switch for controlling energy from said one or more batteries to said illumination source.

32. A flashlight of claim 31, wherein said switch is adapted to close or open in response to translation of said movable holder.

33. A flashlight of claim 32, wherein said switch includes a tactile response feature to indicate that the switch is open.

34. A flashlight of claim 14 further including an actuating member coupled to said actuation interface for moving said movable holder, wherein said actuating member is externally operable by the user.

35. A flashlight of claim 14, wherein said movable holder is adapted for adjusting the position of said illumination source relative to said reflector a first time, and for readjusting the position of said illumination source relative to said reflector a second time without removing said one or more batteries from said flashlight.

36. A flashlight of claim 14, wherein said movable holder is adapted to be moved a first time, and then be moved a second time without separating said reflector or said one or more batteries from said flashlight.

37. A flashlight of claim 14, wherein said movable holder can be moved while said illumination source is electrically coupled to said one or more batteries.

38. A flashlight of claim 14, wherein said movable holder includes a substantially spherical housing, wherein said spherical housing moves within a spherical envelope.

39. A flashlight of claim 14 further including a spring biased conductor, wherein said spring biased conductor includes a first conductor receptacle, a second conductor receptacle and a spring, said first conductor receptacle slidably disposed in an inner cavity of said second conductor receptacle with said spring compressed and contained therebetween, said spring urging one of said first conductor receptacle and said second conductor receptacle towards said movable holder.

40. A combination for use in aligning a substantial point source of light of a lamp bulb with an axis of a flashlight reflector, the combination comprising:

a body member for receiving a portable source of electrical energy;

a lamp bulb including a substantial point source of light operably connected to said portable source of electrical energy;

a substantially axisymmetrical reflector having a first open end adapted to emit a light beam, a second end adapted to receive said lamp bulb extending toward said first open end, and an axis extending from said second end to said first open end;

a movable lamp bulb holder adapted to hold said lamp bulb and an actuation interface to move the movable lamp bulb holder, wherein said actuation interface is a hexagonal socket.

41. A combination for use in aligning a substantial point source of light with an axis of a reflector, the combination comprising:

a reflector including a first open end adapted to emit a light beam, a second end and an axis extending therebetween;

a lamp bulb including a filament having a substantial point source of light;

a movable lamp bulb holder including a receiver to hold said lamp bulb in a position with said filament extending through said second end of said reflector; and

an actuating member operatively coupled to said movable lamp bulb holder for moving said filament of said lamp bulb in a direction substantially perpendicular relative to said axis of said reflector, wherein said actuating member is externally operable by a user.

42. A combination of claim 41, wherein said reflector is substantially parabolic.

43. A combination of claim 41, wherein said actuating member is mechanically coupled to said movable lamp bulb holder.

44. A combination of claim 41, wherein said actuating member is slidably coupled to said movable lamp bulb holder.

45. A combination of claim 41, wherein said actuating member is separable from said movable lamp bulb holder.

46. A combination of claim 41, wherein said actuating member is integral to said movable lamp bulb holder.

47. A combination of claim 41, wherein said movable lamp holder includes a socket, said socket defining a first actuating axis.

48. A combination of claim 47, wherein said actuating member couples with said socket, wherein said actuating member moves said filament of said lamp bulb by rotating said movable lamp bulb holder about said first actuating axis.

49. A combination of claim 47, wherein said actuating member moves said filament of said lamp bulb by rotating said movable lamp bulb holder about a second actuating axis, said second actuating axis substantially perpendicular to said first actuating axis.

50. A combination of claim 41, wherein said movable lamp bulb holder includes an actuation interface, said actuation interface configured to couple with said actuating member.

51. A combination of claim 41, wherein said actuating member moves said filament of said lamp bulb in a non-linear path.

52. A combination of claim 41, wherein said lamp bulb includes two electrodes with said filament and said substantial point source of light extending between said two electrodes.

53. A combination of claim 52, wherein said receiver of said movable lamp bulb holder includes two apertures to receive said two electrodes.

54. A combination of claim 41, wherein said movable lamp bulb holder further includes a pair of tabs disposed opposite to each other, said pair of tabs defining a holder axis substantially perpendicular to said axis of said reflector.

55. A combination of claim 54, wherein said actuating member moves said filament of said lamp bulb by rotating said movable lamp bulb holder about said holder axis.

56. A combination for use in aligning a substantial point source of light with an axis of a reflector, the combination comprising:

a reflector including a first open end adapted to emit a light beam, a second end and an axis extending therebetween;

a lamp bulb including a filament having a substantial point source of light;

a movable lamp bulb holder including a receiver to hold said lamp bulb in a position with said filament extending through said second end of said reflector;

an actuating member operatively coupled to said movable lamp bulb holder for moving said filament of said lamp bulb relative to said axis of said reflector; and

a support housing for holding said reflector having a window, wherein said actuating member extends through said window to couple to said movable lamp holder.

57. A flashlight comprising:

a barrel for retaining one or more batteries, said barrel having first and second ends;

a head assembly adjacent to said first end of said barrel including a reflector and lens mounted in a mutually fixed relationship, said reflector including a first open end adapted to emit a light beam, a second end and an axis extending therebetween;

a lamp bulb including a filament;

a movable lamp bulb holder disposed at said first end of the barrel, said movable lamp bulb holder including a receiver to hold said lamp bulb in a position with said filament extending through said second end of said reflector;

an actuating member operatively coupled to said movable lamp bulb holder for adjusting the position of said filament of said lamp bulb in a direction substantially perpendicular relative to said axis of the reflector, wherein maneuvering said actuating member moves said lamp bulb holder while said lamp bulb is electrically connected to said one or more batteries; and

an electrical circuit coupling said filament of said lamp bulb to said one or more batteries.

58. A flashlight of claim 57, wherein said head assembly is movably mounted to said first end of said barrel.

59. A flashlight of claim 57, wherein said actuating member is slidably coupled to said movable lamp bulb holder.

60. A flashlight of claim 57, wherein said actuating member causes said filament of the lamp bulb to move in a non-linear path.

61. A flashlight of claim 57, wherein said lamp bulb includes two electrodes with said filament extending between said two electrodes.

62. A flashlight of claim 61, wherein said receiver of said movable lamp bulb holder includes two apertures to receive said two electrodes.

63. A flashlight of claim 57, wherein said movable lamp bulb holder further includes a pair of tabs disposed opposite to each other, said pair of tabs defining a holder axis substantially perpendicular to said axis of said reflector.

64. A flashlight of claim 63, wherein said actuating member moves said filament of said lamp bulb by rotating said movable lamp bulb holder about said holder axis.

65. A flashlight of claim 57, wherein said movable lamp bulb holder translates in a direction along said axis of the reflector.

66. A flashlight of claim 65, wherein said movable lamp bulb holder translates by rotating said head assembly about said axis of the reflector.

67. A flashlight of claim 57, wherein said second end of said barrel includes a conductive spring connected to said electrical circuit, said conductive spring arranged to bias said one or more batteries toward said movable lamp bulb holder.

68. A flashlight of claim 57, wherein said second end of said barrel is adapted to be received by said head assembly to support said barrel in a substantially upright position when said head assembly is removed from said first end of said barrel.

69. A flashlight of claim 57 further including a substantial point source of light on said filament and a means for maintaining the position of said substantial point source of light with respect to said reflector axis after said filament has been moved relative to said reflector axis.

70. A flashlight of claim 57 further including an adaptable conductor means interposed in said electrical circuit and operably connected to said filament of said lamp bulb for maintaining electrical contact while moving said lamp bulb filament relative to said axis of the reflector.

71. A flashlight of claim 57 further including a curved conductor interposed in said electrical circuit and operably connected to said filament of said lamp bulb and mounted to said movable lamp bulb holder to maintain electrical contact while moving said lamp bulb filament relative to said axis of the reflector.

72. A flashlight of claim 71, wherein said curved conductor includes a first contact and a second contact electrically connected to said first contact, said first contact adapted to frictionally receive the electrode of said lamp bulb, said second contact includes a curved area for maintaining an equidistant electrical contact location relative to an adjacent electrically connecting conductor.

73. A flashlight of claim 57, wherein said movable lamp holder includes a socket, said socket defining a first actuating axis.

74. A flashlight of claim 73, wherein said actuating member couples with said socket, wherein said actuating member moves said filament of said lamp bulb by maneuvering said first actuating axis.

75. A flashlight of claim 57, wherein said actuating member includes an actuation interface, said actuation interface configured to couple with said actuating member.

76. A flashlight of claim 57, further comprising a holding spring biased against said movable lamp bulb holder for maintaining a position of said filament with said reflector axis.

77. A flashlight of claim 57, wherein said actuating member is separable from said movable lamp bulb holder.

78. A flashlight of claim 75, wherein said head assembly includes a removable sleeve, wherein said sleeve covers said actuation interface when connected to said head assembly, and wherein said sleeve uncovers said actuation interface and facilitates said actuating member to couple with said actuating interface when removed from said head assembly.

79. A flashlight of claim 78, wherein said sleeve is threadably engaged with said head assembly.

80. A flashlight of claim 57, wherein said head assembly includes a removable sleeve, wherein said sleeve covers said actuating member when secured to said head assembly, and wherein said sleeve uncovers and facilitates a user to access said actuating member when removed from said head assembly.

81. A flashlight of claim 57 further including a switch for completing and interrupting said electrical circuit, wherein said switch is interposed between said one or more batteries and said reflector.

82. A flashlight of claim 57 further including a conducting member for recharging said one or more batteries without removing said one or more batteries from said barrel, wherein said conducting member is electrically coupled to said electrical circuit.

83. A flashlight of claim 82, wherein said electrical circuit includes a printed circuit board, wherein said conducting member is coupled to said printed circuit board.

84. A flashlight of claim 82, wherein said conducting member is externally accessible.

85. A flashlight of claim 82, wherein said conducting member is interposed between said barrel and said head assembly.

86. A flashlight of claim 57, wherein said movable lamp bulb holder includes a substantially spherical housing, wherein said spherical housing moves within a spherical envelope.

87. A flashlight of claim 57, wherein said actuating member is externally accessible by a user.

88. A flashlight of claim 57, wherein said actuating member is externally operable by a user.

89. A flashlight of claim 57 further including a spring biased conductor, wherein said spring biased conductor includes a first conductor receptacle, a second conductor receptacle and a spring, said first conductor receptacle slidably disposed in an inner cavity of said second conductor receptacle with said spring compressed and contained therebetween, said spring urging one of said first conductor receptacle and said second conductor receptacle towards said movable lamp bulb holder.

90. A combination for use in aligning a substantial point source of light of a filament of a lamp bulb with an axis of a flashlight reflector, the combination comprising:

a body member for receiving and housing a portable source of electrical energy;

a lamp bulb including a filament operably connected to said portable source of electrical energy, said filament including a substantial point source of light;

a substantially axisymmetrical reflector having a first open end adapted to emit a light beam, a second end adapted to receive said lamp bulb extending toward said first open end, and an axis extending from said second end to said first open end;

a movable lamp bulb holder adapted to hold said lamp bulb; and

an actuating member externally accessible by a user and operatively coupled to said movable lamp bulb holder for adjusting the position of said lamp bulb filament relative to said reflector axis and aligning said substantial point source of light with said reflector axis while said lamp bulb is electrically connected to said portable source of electrical energy, wherein said actuating member is a lever removably coupled to said movable lamp bulb holder.

91. A combination of claim 90, further including means for maintaining the position of said filament with said reflector axis after said substantial point source of light has been moved relative to said reflector axis.

92. A combination of claim 90, further comprising a lock mechanism releasably coupled to said actuating member to maintain the position of said substantial point source of light with said reflector axis after said filament has been moved relative to said reflector axis by restricting actuator member movement.

93. A combination for use in aligning a substantial point source of light of a filament of a lamp bulb with an axis of a flashlight reflector, the combination comprising:

a body member for receiving and housing a portable source of electrical energy;

a lamp bulb including a filament operably connected to said portable source of electrical energy, said filament including a substantial point source of light;

a substantially axisymmetrical reflector having a first open end adapted to emit a light beam, a second end adapted to receive said lamp bulb extending toward said first open end, and an axis extending from said second end to said first open end;

a movable lamp bulb holder adapted to hold said lamp bulb; and

an actuating member operatively coupled to said movable lamp bulb holder for moving said lamp bulb filament in a direction substantially perpendicular to said reflector axis wherein said actuating, member is a barrel cam comprising a hollow cylinder having a profiled end surface, said profiled end surface mechanically coupled to said movable lamp bulb holder.

94. A combination of claim 93, wherein said profiled end surface including a 0.055-0.065 inch rise for a 70-80 degree circumferential segment of the end surface.

95. A combination for use in aligning a substantial point source of light of a filament of a lamp bulb with an axis of a flashlight reflector, the combination comprising:

a body member for receiving and housing a portable source of electrical energy;

a lamp bulb including a filament operably connected to said portable source of electrical energy, said filament including a substantial point source of light;

a substantially axisymmetrical reflector having a first open end adapted to emit a light beam, a second end adapted to receive said lamp bulb extending toward said first open end, and an axis extending from said second end to said first open end;

a movable lamp bulb holder adapted to hold said lamp bulb; and

an actuating member operatively coupled to said movable lamp bulb holder for adjusting the position of said lamp bulb filament relative to said reflector axis and aligning said substantial point source of light with said reflector axis; and

a lock mechanism releasably coupled to said actuating member to maintain the position of said substantial point source of light with said reflector axis after said filament has been moved relative to said reflector axis by restricting actuator member movement

wherein said lock mechanism includes a movable rack and a locking tab, said rack coupled to said actuating member and including ribs and slots interposed between said ribs, said locking tab disposed in one of said slots and bearing against said rib to restrict movement of said rack and said actuating member.

96. A combination for use in aligning a substantial point source of light of a filament of a lamp bulb with an axis of a flashlight reflector, the combination comprising:

a body member for receiving and housing a portable source of electrical energy;

a lamp bulb including a filament operably connected to said portable source of electrical energy, said filament including a substantial point source of light;

a substantially axisymmetrical reflector having a first open end adapted to emit a light beam, a second end adapted to receive said lamp bulb extending toward said first open end, and an axis extending from said second end to said first open end;

a movable lamp bulb holder adapted to hold said lamp bulb; and

an actuating member operatively coupled to said movable lamp bulb holder for adjusting the position of said lamp bulb filament relative to said reflector axis and aligning said substantial point source of light with said reflector axis; and

a lock mechanism releasably coupled to said actuating member to maintain the position of said substantial point source of light with said reflector axis after said filament has been moved relative to said reflector axis by restricting actuator member movement;

wherein said reflector includes an abutment adjacent to the second end and substantially perpendicular to the reflector axis, said reflector is controllably translatable in the direction along said axis to vary the relative axial position of said abutment with said lock mechanism.

97. A combination of claim 96, wherein said lock mechanism includes a movable rack and a locking tab, said rack fixedly coupled to said actuating member and including ribs and slots interposed between said ribs, said locking tab disposed in one of said slots and interposed between said reflector abutment and said rack, said locking tab restrained in said slot and restraining said rack and said actuating member from moving when said reflector abutment contacts the locking tab.

98. A flashlight comprising:

a housing for receiving and storing at least one dry cell battery;

a lamp bulb including electrodes operably connected to said battery through an electrical circuit and a filament extending between said electrodes for generating light;

a substantial point source of light on said filament;

a switch interposed in said electrical circuit adapted to open said electrical circuit and to close said electrical circuit to cause said filament to generate light;

a head assembly including a lens;

a substantially axisymmetrical reflector for forming a beam of light generated by said filament, said reflector having a first open end adapted to emit a light beam through said lens, a second end adapted to receive said lamp bulb extending toward said first open end, an axis extending from said second end to said first open end and a focal point located on said axis;

adjustable focusing means for varying the position of said substantial point source of light with respect to said focal point;

a movable lamp bulb holder to hold said lamp bulb and maintain the operable connection with said battery; and

an actuating member operatively coupled to said movable lamp bulb holder for moving said lamp bulb filament to position said substantial point source of light coaxial with said reflector axis, wherein said actuating member is externally accessible by a user, wherein said actuating member is slidably coupled to said movable lamp bulb holder.

99. A flashlight of claim 98, wherein said actuating member is mechanically coupled to said movable lamp bulb holder.

100. A flashlight of claim 98, wherein said switch is a momentary switch.

101. A flashlight of claim 98, further comprising a lock mechanism releasably coupled to said actuating member to maintain the position of said substantial point source of light with said reflector axis after said filament has been moved relative to said reflector axis by restricting actuator member movement.

102. A flashlight of claim 101, wherein said movable lamp holder includes an actuation interface, wherein said actuating member couples with said actuation interface.

103. A flashlight of claim 98 further including means for maintaining the position of said substantial point source of light with said reflector axis after said filament has been moved relative to said reflector axis.

104. A flashlight of claim 98 further including a curved conductor interposed in said electrical circuit and operably connected to an electrode of said lamp bulb and mounted to said movable lamp bulb holder for maintaining the operable connection between said lamp bulb electrodes and said battery while moving said lamp bulb filament relative to said reflector axis.

105. A flashlight of claim 104, wherein said curved conductor includes a first contact and a second contact electrically connected to said first contact, said first contact adapted to frictionally receive the electrode of said lamp bulb, said second contact includes a curved area for maintaining an equidistant electrical contact location relative to an adjacent electrically connecting conductor.

106. A flashlight of claim 98 further including an adaptable conductor means operably connected to an electrode of said lamp bulb for maintaining electrical contact while moving said lamp bulb filament relative to said reflector axis.

107. A flashlight of claim 98 further including a spring within one end of said housing and urging said at least one dry cell battery toward said other end of said housing.

108. A flashlight of claim 98 further including a spring biased conductor operably connected to said switch on one end and coupled to the center electrode of said battery for protecting said battery from damage.

109. A flashlight of claim 98 further including a spring conductor means operably coupled to a center electrode of said battery for protecting said battery from damage.

110. A flashlight comprising:

a housing for receiving and storing at least one dry cell battery;

a lamp bulb including electrodes operably connected to said battery through an electrical circuit and a filament extending between said electrodes for generating light;

a substantial point source of light on said filament;

a switch interposed in said electrical circuit adapted to open said electrical circuit and to close said electrical circuit to cause said filament to generate light;

a head assembly including a lens;

a substantially axisymmetrical reflector for forming a beam of light generated by said filament, said reflector having a first open end adapted to emit a light beam through said lens, a second end adapted to receive said lamp bulb extending toward said first open end, an axis extending from said second end to said first open end and a focal point located on said axis;

adjustable focusing means for varying the position of said substantial point source of light with respect to said focal point;

a movable lamp bulb holder to hold said lamp bulb and maintain the operable connection with said battery; and

an actuating member operatively coupled to said movable lamp bulb holder for moving said lamp bulb filament in a direction substantially perpendicular to said reflector axis, wherein said actuating member is slidably coupled to said movable lamp bulb holder, wherein said actuating member is a barrel cam comprising a hollow cylinder having a profiled end surface, said profiled end surface mechanically coupled to said movable lamp bulb holder.

111. A flashlight comprising:

a housing for receiving and storing at least one dry cell battery;

a lamp bulb including electrodes operably connected to said battery through an electrical circuit and a filament extending between said electrodes for generating light;

a substantial point source of light on said filament;

a switch interposed in said electrical circuit adapted to open said electrical circuit and to close said electrical circuit to cause said filament to generate light;

a head assembly including a lens;

a substantially axisymmetrical reflector for forming a beam of light generated by said filament, said reflector having a first open end adapted to emit a light beam through said lens, a second end adapted to receive said lamp bulb extending toward said first open end, an axis extending from said second end to said first open end and a focal point located on said axis;

adjustable focusing means for varying the position of said substantial point source of light with respect to said focal point;

a movable lamp bulb holder to hold said lamp bulb and maintain the operable connection with said battery; and

an actuating member operatively coupled to said movable lamp bulb holder for moving said lamp bulb filament to position said substantial point source of light coaxial with said reflector axis; and

a lock mechanism releasably coupled to said actuating member to maintain the position of said substantial point source of light with said reflector axis after said filament has been moved relative to said reflector axis by restricting actuator member movement, wherein said lock mechanism includes a movable rack and a locking tab, said rack fixedly coupled to said actuating member and including ribs and slots interposed between said ribs, said locking tab disposed in one of said slots and bearing against said rib to restrict movement of said rack and said actuating member.

112. A flashlight comprising:

a housing for receiving and storing at least one dry cell battery;

a lamp bulb including electrodes operably connected to said battery through an electrical circuit and a filament extending between said electrodes for generating light;

a substantial point source of light on said filament;

a switch interposed in said electrical circuit adapted to open said electrical circuit and to close said electrical circuit to cause said filament to generate light;

a head assembly including a lens;

a substantially axisymmetrical reflector for forming a beam of light generated by said filament, said reflector having a first open end adapted to emit a light beam through said lens, a second end adapted to receive said lamp bulb extending toward said first open end, an axis extending from said second end to said first open end and a focal point located on said axis;

adjustable focusing means for varying the position of said substantial point source of light with respect to said focal point;

a movable lamp bulb holder to hold said lamp bulb and maintain the operable connection with said battery, wherein said movable lamp holder includes an actuation interface, wherein said actuation interface is a hexagonal socket; and

an actuating member operatively coupled to said movable lamp bulb holder for moving said lamp bulb filament to position said substantial point source of light coaxial with said reflector axis, wherein said actuating member couples with said actuation interface.

113. A flashlight comprising:

a housing for receiving at least one battery including first and second ends;

a lamp bulb including a filament;

a head assembly mounted to the first end of the housing, said head assembly including a reflector and a head fixedly mounted in a fixed relationship with said reflector, said reflector having a first open end adapted to emit a beam of light, a second end adapted to receive said lamp bulb extending toward said first open end, and an axis extending from said second end to said first open end;

a movable lamp bulb holder to hold said lamp bulb;

actuating means for moving said lamp bulb and lamp bulb filament in a direction substantially perpendicular relative to said reflector axis while said lamp bulb is electrically connected to said at least one battery;

a tail cap removably mounted to the second end of said housing including a tail cap spring, said tail cap spring urging said at least one battery towards the first end of said housing;

an electrical circuit coupling the lamp bulb filament to said at least one battery; and

a switch including a spring biased conductor interposed in the electrical circuit between said at least one battery and said lamp bulb filament.

114. A flashlight of claim 113 further including means for maintaining the position of said filament with said reflector axis after said filament has been moved relative to said reflector axis.

115. A flashlight of claim 113 further including an adaptable curved conductor mounted to said movable lamp bulb holder and interposed in said electrical circuit for maintaining electrical connection between said filament with said battery when said actuating means moves said lamp bulb filament.

116. A flashlight of claim 113, wherein said second end of said housing is adapted to be received by said head assembly to support said housing in a substantially upright position when said head assembly is removed from said first end of said housing.

117. A flashlight of claim 113 further comprising a lock mechanism releasably coupled to said actuating means to maintain the position of said filament with said reflector axis after said filament has been moved relative to said reflector axis by restricting actuator means movement.

118. A flashlight comprising:

a housing for receiving at least one battery including first and second ends;

a lamp bulb including a filament;

a head assembly mounted to the first end of the housing, said head assembly including a reflector and a head fixedly mounted in a fixed relationship with said reflector, said reflector having a first open end adapted to emit a beam of light, a second end adapted to receive said lamp bulb extending toward said first open end, and an axis extending from said second end to said first open end;

a movable lamp bulb holder to hold said lamp bulb;

actuating means for moving said lamp bulb and lamp bulb filament relative to said reflector axis while said lamp bulb is electrically coupled to said at least one battery;

a tail cap removably mounted to the second end of said housing including a tail cap spring, said tail cap spring urging said at least one battery towards the first end of said housing;

an electrical circuit coupling the lamp bulb filament to said at least one battery;

a switch including a spring biased conductor interposed in the electrical circuit between said at least one battery and said lamp bulb filament; and

a lock mechanism releasably coupled to said actuating means to maintain the position of said filament with said reflector axis after said filament has been moved relative to said reflector axis by restricting actuator means movement, wherein said lock mechanism includes a movable rack and a locking tab, said rack fixedly coupled to said actuating means and including ribs and slots interposed between said ribs, said locking tab disposed in one of said slots and bearing against said rib to restrict movement of said rack and said actuating means.

119. A flashlight comprising:

a housing for receiving at least one battery including first and second ends;

a lamp bulb including a filament;

a head assembly mounted to the first end of the housing, said head assembly including a reflector and a head fixedly mounted in a fixed relationship with said reflector, said reflector having a first open end adapted to emit a beam of light, a second end adapted to receive said lamp bulb extending toward said first open end, and an axis extending from said second end to said first open end;

a movable lamp bulb holder to hold said lamp bulb;

actuating means for moving said lamp bulb and lamp bulb filament relative to said reflector axis while said lamp bulb is electrically coupled to said at least one battery;

a tail cap removably mounted to the second end of said housing including a tail cap spring, said tail cap spring urging said at least one battery towards the first end of said housing;

an electrical circuit coupling the lamp bulb filament to said at least one battery;

a switch including a spring biased conductor interposed in the electrical circuit between said at least one battery and said lamp bulb filament; and

a lock mechanism releasably coupled to said actuating means to maintain the position of said filament with said reflector axis after said filament has been moved relative to said reflector axis by restricting actuator means movement,

wherein said reflector includes an abutment adjacent to the second end of said reflector and substantially perpendicular to the reflector axis, said reflector controllably translatable in the direction along said axis to vary the relative axial position of said abutment with said lock mechanism.

120. A flashlight of claim 119, wherein said lock mechanism includes a movable rack and a locking tab, said rack fixedly coupled to said actuating means and including ribs and slots interposed between said ribs, said tab disposed in one of said slots and interposed between said reflector abutment and said rack, said tab restrained in said slot and said rack and restraining said actuating means from moving when said reflector abutment contacts the tab.

121. A flashlight comprising:

a barrel for retaining a battery, the barrel having a first and second ends and comprising an electrically conductive material;

a lamp bulb including a filament for generating light;

a reflector disposed on the first end of the barrel for forming a beam of light having a first open end adapted to emit a beam of light generated by said filament, a second end adapted to receive said lamp bulb extending toward said first open end, an axis extending from said second end to said first open end and a focal point located on said axis;

an electrical circuit coupling the lamp bulb to said battery, said electrical circuit including switch means interposed therein;

a movable means for holding and moving said lamp bulb and maintaining the operable electrical connection with said battery; and

an actuating means, externally operable for actuation by a user, for moving said lamp bulb filament in a direction substantially perpendicular relative with said reflector axis while said lamp bulb is electrically connected to said battery.

122. A flashlight of claim 121 further including an adjustable focusing means to vary the position of said filament with respect to said focal point in a direction parallel to said axis.

123. A flashlight of claim 122, wherein said adjustable focusing means is coupled to the switch means.

124. A flashlight of claim 121, wherein said switch means and actuating means are integral to each other.

125. A flashlight comprising:

a housing for receiving at least one battery;

a lamp bulb including electrodes operably connected to said battery through an electrical circuit and a filament extending between said electrodes for generating light;

a head assembly including a lens and a substantially axisymmetrical reflector for forming a beam of light generated by said filament, said reflector having a first open end adapted to emit said beam of light through said lens, a second end adapted to receive said lamp bulb extending toward said first open end, an axis extending from said second end to said first open end and a focal point located on said axis;

a movable lamp bulb holder to hold said lamp bulb; and

actuating means externally accessible for actuation by a user and operatively coupled to said movable lamp holder for moving said lamp bulb filament in a direction substantially perpendicular relative to said reflector axis while said lamp bulb is operably connected to said battery.

126. A flashlight of claim 125 further including adjustable focusing means to vary the position of said filament with respect to said focal point in a direction parallel to said axis.

127. A flashlight of claim 126 further including a switch means coupled to said adjustable focusing means and interposed in said electrical circuit for opening and closing said electrical circuit when the position of said filament with respect to said focal point is varied in a direction parallel to said axis.

128. A flashlight of claim 127, wherein said switch means includes a spring biased conductor.

129. A flashlight of claim 125 further including a locking means for restricting said actuating means from moving said lamp bulb filament relative to said reflector axis.

130. A flashlight of claim 125, wherein said head assembly includes a removable sleeve, wherein said sleeve covers access to said movable lamp bulb holder when secured to said head assembly, and wherein said sleeve uncovers and facilitates moving said movable lamp bulb holder when removed from said head assembly.

131. A flashlight of claim 125 further including a conducting member interposed between said housing and said head assembly, wherein said conducting member is electrically coupled to said electrical circuit for recharging said at least one battery.

132. A hand-held, portable lighting device, comprising:

a housing for receiving and maintaining a portable source of energy;

a bulb having a substantial point source of light generated by said portable source of energy;

an electrical circuit which connects said source of energy and said bulb;

a reflector for forming a beam of light having a first open end adapted to emit said light beam, a second end, an inner reflective surface therebetween and a focal point positioned between said first and second end, and within the area defined by said reflective surface;

a movable bulb holder for holding said bulb, wherein said movable bulb holder includes a substantially spherical housing, wherein said spherical housing moves within a spherical envelope; and

an actuating member operatively coupled to said bulb holder for moving said bulb and thereby aligning said point source of light substantially co-axially with said focal point, wherein said actuating member is externally operable by a user.

133. A device of claim 132 further including a spring biased conductor, wherein said spring biased conductor includes a first conductor receptacle, a second conductor receptacle and a spring, said first conductor receptacle slidably disposed in an inner cavity of said second conductor receptacle with said spring compressed and contained therebetween, said spring urging one of said first conductor receptacle and said second conductor receptacle towards said movable bulb holder.

134. A combination for use in aligning a substantial point source of light of a lamp bulb with an axis of a flashlight reflector, the combination comprising:

a body member for receiving a portable source of electrical energy;

a lamp bulb including a substantial point source of light operably connected to said portable source of electrical energy;

a substantially axisymmetrical reflector having a first open end adapted to emit a light beam, a second end adapted to receive said lamp bulb extending toward said first open end, and an axis extending from said second end to said first open end;

a movable lamp bulb holder adapted to hold said lamp bulb and including an actuation interface to move the movable lame bulb holder and align said substantial point source of light with said reflector axis, wherein said movable lamp bulb holder may be moved while said lamp bulb is operably connected to said portable source of electrical energy, wherein said movable bulb holder includes a substantially spherical housing, wherein said spherical housing moves within a spherical envelope.

135. A combination of claim 134, wherein said actuation interface is externally operable by a user.

137. A combination of claim 134, wherein said acutation interface defines an axis.

138. A combination of claim 137, wherein said movable lamp bulb holder is caused to move by manuevering said axis defined by said acutation interface.

139. A combination of claim 134 further comprising a securing mechanism to maintain the position of said substantial point source of light with said reflector axis said filament has been moved to said reflector axis.

136. A combination of further including an actuating member coupled to said actuation interface for moving said movable lamp bulb holder.

140. A flashlight comprising:

a housing, the housing includes a reflector, a light source, a movable holder, and an actuating member;

wherein the reflector including a first open end configured to emit a light beam, a second end and an axis extending therebetween;

wherein the light source including a filament having a substantial point source of light;

wherein the movable holder including a receiver to hold said light source in a position with said filament between said first open end and said second end of the reflector; and

wherein the actuating member operatively coupled to said movable holder to move said filament of said light source in at least one direction substantially perpendicular to said axis of said reflector, wherein said actuating member is externally operable by a user.

141. The flashlight of claim 140, wherein said movable holder may be displaced in a direction substantially parallel to said axis of said reflector.

142. The flashlight of claim 140, wherein said movable holder includes a substantially spherical housing.

143. The flashlight of claim 142, wherein said substantially spherical housing of said movable holder moves within a substantially spherical envelope.

144. The flashlight of claim 140, wherein said actuating member is separable from said movable holder.

145. A flashlight comprising:

a reflector including a first open end adapted to emit a light beam, a second end and an axis extending therebetween;

a light source; and

a movable holder including a receiver and an actuation interface, wherein said receiver holds said light source in a position between said first open end and said second end of said reflector, wherein said actuation interface is used to move said light source in at least one direction substantially perpendicular to said axis of said reflector while said light source is electrically coupled to a source of, energy wherein said actuating interface is externally operable by a user.

146. A flashlight comprising:

a reflector including a first open end adapted to emit a light beam, a second end and an axis extending therebetween;

a light source; and

a movable holder including a receiver and an actuation interface, wherein said receiver holds said light source in a position between said first open end and said second end of said reflector, wherein said movable holder is movable about at least a first axis while said light source is electrically coupled to a source of energy, wherein said first axis is not coincident with said axis of said reflector, wherein said actuation interface is used to move said light source, wherein said actuating interface is externally operable by a user.

147. A flashlight of claim 146, wherein said movable holder is movable about more than one axis.

148. A flashlight of claim 146, wherein said movable holder moves to align said light source with said axis of said reflector.

149. A flashlight of claim 146, wherein said movable holder includes a substantially spherical housing, wherein said substantially spherical housing moves within a substantially spherical envelope.