Patent Grant
8448546
The present invention relates to a remote access tool. More specifically, the present invention relates to a customizable light bulb changer designed to remove and replace light bulbs of various sizes, shapes, and configurations which are held at a variety of angles and heights and are otherwise inaccessible from ground level.
Numerous light bulb removal tools have been patented which alleviate the problems associated with replacing light bulbs from remote locations. One such problem is accessibility. Overhead lights are purposefully positioned out of reach to minimize risks associated with heat burns and unintentional contact which could result in globe glass breakage; furthermore, many lights are recessed within their fixtures, limiting physical access to only a small portion of the bulb. Another problem stems from the variety of angles from which bulbs must be extracted and replaced from these remote locations, such as from chandeliers and hanging light arrangements. Another problem is the adjustability of the handle to reach light bulbs at varying distances. Other problems arise from the need to apply force to the bulb and lighting fixture: too much force can cause damage to the bulb or fixture, or even bodily injury.
U.S. Pat. No. 1,514,814 to Allen, discloses an electric bulb holder which has bulb gripping arms that are pivotally connected to a slidable member which causes the bulb gripping arms to spread around the light bulb and then collapse to grip the light bulb. Once the user has a grip of the light bulb, she must rotate the whole bulb holder to screw or unscrew the light bulb. Further, the handle in this patent does not have a flexible arm for reaching light bulbs that are at an angle.
U.S. Pat. No. 2,983,541 to Maid discloses a device for removing or placing light bulbs in sockets. Specifically, the device taught by Maid consists of a fixed rod with a bendable arm for reaching light bulbs at different angles. The patent discloses using a helicoidal operating member inside the bendable arm which is bendable and rotatable. However, the device taught by Maki, by having a fixed rod, does not allow the user to adjust the rod to different heights. Also, the user must use an air bulb to create suction in an engaging cup to engage the light bulb. This is disadvantageous to the user, because the cup is not adjustable to engage different sized light bulbs.
U.S. Pat. No. 2,616,743 to Negley discloses a light bulb changer having a rigid handle and a bendable arm attached to the handle. Although this light bulb changer allows the user to bend the arm to engage light bulbs at different angles, the light bulb changer does not allow the user to adjust the handle to different heights. Further, the light bulb changer taught by Negley does not allow the user to adjust the mechanism to fit differently sized light bulbs.
U.S. Pat. Nos. 1,202,432 and 1,201,506 to Rozelle et al., both disclose an adjustable device for placing and removing electric light bulbs. Specifically, the device taught in these patents utilizes a rod which has a pivoting section about a clamp screw for reaching light bulbs at different angles. However, the pivoting section is locked by tightening the clamp screw, which is burdensome on the user, because the user must use a screw driver, or some other external tool, to lock the pivoting shall. Further, the rods taught in this patent are also adjustable to reach light bulbs at different heights, but the mechanism to lock the rods at a desired height is limiting. The mechanism to prevent the sliding of the rods consists of pins positioned along the rod which are configured to slide into a bayonet slot cut into the outer surface of the rod. Therefore, the user can only adjust the rod at certain heights, which is burdensome if the light bulb is at a height that does not correspond to any of the positions available on the rod.
In an embodiment, the present invention presents a light bulb changing tool which comprises a movable holding cup configured along an axis and configured to engage a light bulb, a force generator, configured to selectively force the light bulb against the movable holding cup, a control unit configured to control the movable holding cup to selectively rotate in a first direction and a second direction around the axis, and configured to activate the force generator to force the light bulb against the movable holding cup, and an arm member for positioning the movable holding cup in a desired configuration to engage the light bulb, the arm member coupled to the movable holding cup. In an embodiment of the present invention, the holding cup is small enough, and the force generator sufficiently powerful, to permit manipulation of light bulbs of which only a portion are exposed. Such light bulbs include, but are not limited to, those configured within recessed lighting fixtures, and outdoor flood lights with shrouds.
In a further aspect, the present invention describes an improvement to a light bulb changing tool, wherein the improvement comprises an adjustable holding cup coupled with the clasping mechanism having an adjustable dimension configurable to engage a correspondingly sized light bulb, and a force generator, configured to engage the light bulb by forcing the light bulb against the adjustable holding cup.
In some embodiments, the present invention is adapted to permit a user to easily switch the clasping mechanism, holding cup, or other means for holding to permit use of multiple attachments with a single changing tool body.
In another embodiment, the present invention presents a light bulb changing tool for selectively tightening and loosening a light bulb. The light bulb changing tool includes means for holding the light bulb, a means for forcing the correspondingly sized light bulb to a held position against the holding means, and means for coupling, the coupling means configured to detachably couple to an arm member, wherein the arm member is configured for positioning the light bulb changing tool in a desired configuration to engage the light bulb. In an additional embodiment, the means for holding comprises a means for size adjusting, the size adjusting means configured to adjust the holding means to an adjustable dimension for engaging a correspondingly sized light bulb.
In another aspect, the present invention discloses a light bulb changing tool for selectively tightening and loosening a light bulb. The light bulb changing tool comprises a holding structure, configured to hold the light bulb, a force generator actuable to force the light bulb to a held position against the holding structure, and a controller configured to selectively actuate the force generator to force the light bulb to the held position or release the light bulb from the held position.
In yet another aspect, the present invention presents a motorized clasping mechanism for changing a light bulb. The motorized clasping mechanism includes a clasping mechanism housing, and an arm member coupled to the clasping mechanism housing and adapted to couple to a tubular member and configured to position the clasping mechanism housing in a desired configuration, wherein at least a portion of the arm member is independently moveable with respect to another portion of the arm member. The clasping mechanism housing includes an adjustable holding structure configured along an axis, a motor coupled to the holding structure, and a force generator coupled with the adjustable holding structure and configured to selectively force a light bulb against the holding structure in response to an appropriate force signal from the remotely located control source. The holding structure includes a plurality of fingers and a plurality of resilient panels configured between the plurality of fingers. Further, the motor is configured to selectively actuate the plurality of fingers in a desired direction about the axis in response to an appropriate movement signal from a remotely located control source.
In an additional embodiment, the present invention presents another light bulb changing tool. In this aspect, the light bulb changing tool includes a movable holding cup configured along an axis, a force generator, configured to selectively force the light bulb against the movable holding cup, an electronic control unit configured for remote communication with the movable holding cup and the force generator, wherein the electronic control unit sends control communications to drive the movable holding cup to selectively rotate in a first direction and a second direction around the axis and/or to activate the force generator to force the light bulb against the movable holding cup, and an arm member for positioning the movable holding cup in a desired configuration to engage the light bulb, the arm member coupled to the movable holding cup and adapted to be coupled to a tubular member, wherein at least a portion of the arm member is laterally moveable with respect to the tubular member.
Further, in some embodiments, the movable holding cup includes a torque limiter which limits the rotational force which the movable holding cup can apply to a light bulb. In an alternative aspect, the light bulb changer includes a detection circuit configured to detect when a light bulb has been fully inserted into a socket. The detection circuit is configured to signal the movable holding cup to stop rotation when the light bulb is fully inserted.
In one aspect of this embodiment, the moveable holding cup is mechanically rotated and the control communications that drive the moveable hold cup are mechanical signals. These mechanical signals can be manually generated or electrically generated. In an alternative aspect, the moveable holding cup is motorized, and the control communications that drive the moveable holding cup to selectively rotate are electrical signals. Similarly, the control communications that activate the force generator can comprise several different types. In one aspect, they can be electrical signals. In an alternative aspect, they can be mechanical signals.
In some embodiments, the control communications are sent wirelessly from the electronic control unit to the movable holding cup and to the force generator. In an alternative embodiment an electronic control unit and one or more of the movable holding cup and the force generator are coupled to one another by a cable and the tool includes a clip that secures the cable to the tubular member. The movable holding cup, the force generator, and the electronic control unit are coupled to a tubular member in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the electronic control unit is powered by a DC voltage source and alternatively by an AC voltage source.
In an alternative embodiment, the holding cup is adjustable. An exemplary adjustable holding cup includes a set of interconnected leaves adjustable by a telescoping collar. The telescoping collar further can include an interconnect configured to detachably couple to the arm member. In another aspect, the telescoping collar can include a turn knob and a plurality of marks corresponding to settings for specific lightbulb sizes.
In some embodiments the control unit is provided in a separate device from the light bulb changing tool, while in other embodiments the control unit is coupled to the light bulb changing tool. Further, though the exemplary embodiments discussed above include one control unit capable of remote communications, in an embodiment a second, local control unit is configured to control the force generator. Alternatively, the local control unit is configured to control the moveable holding cup as well. Further, the local control unit is coupled with the arm member in some embodiments.
In one aspect of the present invention is a tool for selectively tightening and loosening a light bulb. The tool comprises means for clasping the light bulb. The clasping means is configured to have an adjustable dimension that is for clasping a correspondingly sized light bulb. The tool includes means for activating the clasping means. The activating means is configured for remote communication with the clasping means, wherein the activating means sends control communications to move the clasping means in a first direction and a second direction. The tool further comprises means for setting the clasping means in a desired configuration to engage the light bulb. The setting means is coupled to the clasping means. The setting means further comprises a means for varying the adjustable dimension. The varying means is coupled to the activating means. The control communications are sent wirelessly from the activating means to the clasping means in some embodiments. In an alternative embodiment, the clasping means and the activating means are coupled to one another by a cable. The clasping means and the activating means are coupled to a tubular member in some embodiments. The tool further comprises means for securing the wire to the tubular member, wherein the overall length of the tubular member is able to be selectively adjusted. In some embodiments, the means for activating is powered by a DC voltage source and alternatively by an AC voltage source.
In another aspect of the invention is a light bulb changing tool that comprises a motorized clasping mechanism that is configured to engage a light bulb. The motorized clasping mechanism is configured along an axis and to actuate in a first direction and a second direction. The tool includes an electronic drive unit that is configured for remote communication with the motorized clasping mechanism. The electronic drive unit sends control communications to drive the motorized clasping mechanism to selectively move in the first direction and the second direction. The tool further comprises an arm member that positions the motorized clasping mechanism in a desired configuration to engage the light bulb. The arm member is coupled to the motorized clasping mechanism. The motorized clasping mechanism further comprises a rotator mechanism that is configured to rotate the motorized clasping mechanism in the first direction about the axis. The motorized clasping mechanism further comprises a plurality of spring urged fingers. The tool further comprises an adjusting mechanism that is configured to actuate the motorized clasping mechanism in the second direction. The control communications are sent wirelessly from the electronic drive unit to the motorized clasping mechanism. The motorized clasping mechanism and the electronic drive unit are alternatively coupled to one another by a cable. In some embodiments, the motorized clasping mechanism and the electronic drive unit are coupled to a tubular member. The tool further comprises a clip that secures the cable to the tubular member. In some embodiments, the electronic drive unit is powered by a DC voltage source and alternatively by an AC voltage source.
In yet another aspect of the invention is a method of assembling a light bulb changing tool. The method comprises the step of providing a clasping mechanism that is configured to engage a light bulb, wherein the clasping mechanism has an adjustable dimension. The method comprises providing a drive unit in remote communication with the clasping mechanism, wherein the drive unit sends control communications to electrically activate the clasping mechanism to actuate the clasping mechanism in a first direction and a second direction. The method further comprises the step of coupling an adjusting arm to the clasping mechanism, whereby the adjusting arm is configured to adjust the clasping mechanism to a desired position that is relative to the light bulb. The method further comprises the step of coupling the clasping mechanism and the drive unit to a tubular member. In some embodiments, the control communications are sent wirelessly from the drive unit to the clasping mechanism. The method further comprises the step of coupling the clasping mechanism and the drive unit to one another by a cable. The method further comprises securing the cable to the tubular member with a clip.
In yet another aspect, an interconnect of a light bulb changer comprises a receiving member including a first aperture and a set of tabs and a securing member detachably coupled to the receiving member, the securing member configured for securing a protruding member with the receiving member. The protruding member protrudes from a holding cup configured to engage a light bulb. The protruding member is configured for insertion into the receiving member. The protruding member further includes a lateral component and a longitudinal component, further wherein the lateral component is configured to be positioned between the set of tabs and the longitudinal component is configured to be positioned within the first aperture. The receiving member is configured for receiving the protruding member. The securing member further includes a second aperture for receiving the protruding member and a structure for securing the protruding member with the receiving member. The interconnect is configured to detachably couple to a holding cup. The interconnect is configured to detachably couple to an arm member. The arm member is configured for positioning the light bulb changer in a desired configuration to engage a light bulb. In some embodiments, the arm member is motorized. In some embodiments, the arm member is non-motorized. The holding cup is utilized with a variety of types of light bulbs wherein the lightbulb is selected from the group comprising recessed type, flood light type, reflector type, regular household type, bent tip decorative type, torpedo shape type, beacon lamp type, track head type, candelabra type, globe type, and compact fixture type lightbulb. The holding cup is a creased gripping member. The holding cup is utilized with a variety of types of light bulbs wherein the lightbulb comprises a bulbous portion and a narrow portion, wherein the narrow portion is narrower than the bulbous portion. The interconnect comprises a non-electrical conducting material. In some embodiments, the non-electrical conducting material comprises plastic. In some embodiments, the non-electrical conducting material comprises polymer. In some embodiments, the non-electrical conducting material comprises elastomer.
In another aspect, a light bulb changer comprises a creased gripping member configured to engage and selectively tighten and loosen a light bulb, the creased gripping member including a plurality of creases and a protruding member, wherein the plurality of creases are configured for expanding and retracting the creased gripping member and an interconnect including a receiving member and a securing member, wherein the protruding member is configured for insertion into the receiving member, the receiving member is configured for receiving the protruding member and the securing member is configured for securing the protruding member with the receiving member. The receiving member further includes a first aperture and a set of tabs. The securing member further includes a second aperture for receiving the protruding member and a structure for securing the protruding member with the receiving member. The protruding member further includes a lateral component and a longitudinal component, further wherein the lateral component is configured to be positioned between the set of tabs and the longitudinal component is configured to be positioned within the first aperture. The interconnect is detachably coupled to the creased gripping member. The interconnect is further configured to detachably couple to an arm member. The arm member is configured for positioning the light bulb changer in a desired configuration to engage the light bulb. In some embodiments, the arm member is motorized. In some embodiments, the arm member is non-motorized. The creased gripping member is utilized with a variety of types of light bulbs wherein the lightbulb is selected from the group comprising recessed type, flood light type, reflector type, regular household type, bent tip decorative type, torpedo shape type, beacon lamp type, track head type, candelabra type, globe type, and compact fixture type lightbulb. The creased gripping member is utilized with a variety of types of light bulbs wherein the lightbulb comprises a bulbous portion and a narrow portion, wherein the narrow portion is narrower than the bulbous portion. The creased gripping member and the interconnect comprise a non-electrical conducting material. In some embodiments, the non-electrical conducting material comprises plastic. In some embodiments, the non-electrical conducting material comprises polymer. In some embodiments, the non-electrical conducting material comprises elastomer.
In yet another aspect, a light bulb changing tool for selectively tightening and loosening a light bulb comprises means for gripping the light bulb, wherein the gripping means includes means for expansion and contraction, the expansion and contraction means configured to expand the gripping means to a second size for engaging a light bulb and contract the gripping means to a first size after disengaging the light bulb and means for coupling, the coupling means configured to detachably couple to an arm member, wherein the arm member is configured for positioning the light bulb changing tool in a desired configuration to engage the light bulb. The means for gripping is utilized with a variety of types of light bulbs wherein the lightbulb is selected from the group comprising recessed type, flood light type, reflector type, regular household type, bent tip decorative type, torpedo shape type, beacon lamp type, track head type, candelabra type, globe type, and compact fixture type lightbulb. The means for expansion and contraction comprise a plurality of creases. The means for gripping the light bulb and the means for coupling comprise a non-electrical conducting material. In some embodiments, the arm member is motorized. In some embodiments, the arm member is non-motorized.
The motor unit 104 is coupled to the upper arm member 112A. The upper arm member 112A is coupled to the lower arm member 112B. The lower arm member 112B is coupled to the connecting arm 113. In some embodiments, the motor unit 104, the arm members 112A and 112B and the connecting arm 113 are adjustable at any angle with respect to one another by a set of threaded knobs 114. Alternatively, the motor unit 104, the arm members 112A and 112B and the connecting arm 113 are adjustable at any angle with respect to one another by a set of pull and lock knobs. In some embodiments, the upper arm 112A and the lower arm 112B are adjustable with respect to one another when the knobs 114 are pushed or released. In contrast, the motor unit 104 as well as the upper arm 112A and the lower arm 112B are not adjustable when the are in the locked position. Accordingly, the user is able to position the arms 112A and 112B in the desired configuration while the knobs 114 are released and then tighten the knobs 114 to maintain the arms 112A and 112B in that configuration by setting the knobs to the locked position. Alternatively, any other means for tightening and loosening the drive unit 110 as well as the upper arm 112A, the lower arm 112B and connecting arm 113 with respect to one another are used, including but not limited to rotatable loosening and tightening knobs, pins, screws and bolts. The connecting arm 113 shown in
In embodiments according to the present invention, the motorized light bulb changer 100 of
Shown in
Shown in
Further, in some embodiments, the control unit 106 is also configured to communicate with a force generator, e.g. 95 of
In an alternative embodiment, the motor 98 controls the adapter 116 which extends out of the top of the motor 98 along the axis 97. In this alternative embodiment, the adapter 116 moves upward and downward as controlled by the motor unit 98 along the axis 97 depending on a predetermined voltage supplied to the motor 98, to either spread or tighten the fingers 120. In addition, the adapter 116 rotates in the clockwise and counterclockwise direction about the axis 97 depending on a predetermined voltage supplied to the motor 98. In addition, the clasping mechanism 102 of this alternative embodiment of the present invention can be used to grasp and manipulate objects other than light bulbs.
The wirelessly communicating drive unit 206 and motor unit 204 of the alternative embodiment are illustrated in
Referring again to
Referring again to
A cross sectional view of the alternative embodiment of the motor unit 204 is illustrated in
The control unit 306 includes an infrared signal receiver 308 which receives control signals from the drive unit 206 for controlling the operation of the motor 298. Based on the control signals received from the drive unit 206, the control unit 306 then controls the operation of the motor 298 to turn in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction. As shown in
The clasping attachment, as shown in
In some embodiments, the clasping mechanism 202 is able to rotate about the axis 97, thereby causing the fingers 120 to rotate in communication with the adapter 216 that is driven by the motor 298. The clasping mechanism 202 is thus able to rotate in a clockwise position or a counter-clockwise position relative to the axis 97. In other words, in some embodiments, the clasping mechanism 202 rotates clockwise or counterclockwise depending on the controls received by the control unit 306 from the drive unit 206. Thus, the motor 298, when activated by the control unit 306, causes the adapter 216 to rotate about the axis 97, thereby causing the fingers 120 to rotate along with the adapter 216. The rotation of the fingers 120 in the clockwise rotation allows the user to screw in the light bulb 96 (
In the alternative embodiment, as shown in
As shown in
The operation in screwing in a light bulb 96 will now be discussed. In operation, as shown in
In this aspect, in some embodiments, the holding cup 121 includes an interface 123 for communication with the force generator 95 and the light bulb. In one exemplary aspect, the force generator 95 forms negative pressure and the negative pressure is provided to the interface, forcing the light bulb against the holding cup 121. In this aspect, the interface comprises an aperture as illustrated; alternatively, the interface includes a semipermeable membrane or a porous structure.
In this embodiment, the holding structure 119 includes an interface for communication between the force generator 95 and the adapter 116. In some embodiments, signals from the cable 108 are passed through the interface to control the force generator 95. In addition, in this embodiment the force generator 95 activates or deactivates depending on the amount of voltage supplied through the cable 108 to the interface at the adapter 116. A predetermined voltage supplied through the cable 108 will cause the force generator 95 to activate and force a light bulb against the holding cup 121. In contrast, a different predetermined voltage supplied by the control unit 106 will cause the force generator 95 to deactivate and release the light bulb from the holding cup 121.
Though many force generators are contemplated in the present invention, in the illustrated embodiment, the force generator 295 is a suction generating device, such as a vacuum pump, in some embodiments. In addition, in some embodiments, the force generator 295 can generate a positive pressure, e.g. through reversal of the vacuum system. Further, the interface 123 is in this case an aperture, but alternatively is a semipermeable membrane or porous structure.
In this embodiment, the controller 306 includes an infrared signal receiver 308 which receives control signals from the control unit 206 for controlling the operation of the force generator 295. Further, the auxiliary control switch 308′ also controls the controller 306. Based on the control signals received from the control unit 206 (or the auxiliary control switch 308), the controller 306 then controls the operation of the force generator 295 to force the light bulb against the holding cup 121, or to release the light bulb from the holding cup 121. As shown in
As in the previously discussed embodiment, the holding structure 119 is selectively rotated. Thus, since the light bulb is selectively forced against the holding cup 121, the light bulb too is selectively rotated. Therefore, when a light bulb (96 of
A customizable light bulb changer 600 is illustrated in
The light bulb is selected from the group comprising recessed type, flood light type, reflector type, regular household type, bent tip decorative type, torpedo shape type, beacon lamp type, track head type, candelabra type, globe type, or compact fixture type lightbulb. In another embodiment, the lightbulb comprises a bulbous portion and a narrow portion, wherein the narrow portion is narrower than the bulbous portion. It should be understood that this list only serves to provide examples, and does not serve to limit the type, size, or shape of the lightbulb to be engaged by the customizable light bulb changer 600.
In the embodiments illustrated in
In one embodiment, the size adjusting means 721 and 821, respectively, comprise a telescoping collar 722 and 822, respectively. The size adjusting means 721 and 821, also comprises a turn knob 723 and 823, and a plurality of marks, as discussed above, corresponding to settings for specific lightbulb sizes, respectively. In some embodiments, the means for clasping 710 and 810, respectively, and the interconnect 720 and 820, respectively, comprise a non-electrical conducting material.
The light bulb is selected from the group comprising recessed type, flood light type, reflector type, regular household type, bent tip decorative type, torpedo shape type, beacon lamp type, track head type, candelabra type, globe type, or compact fixture type lightbulb. In another embodiment, the lightbulb 901, as illustrated comprises a bulbous portion 902 and a narrow portion 903, wherein the narrow portion 903 is narrower than the bulbous portion 902. It should be understood that this list only serves to provide examples, and does not serve to limit the type, size, or shape of the lightbulb to be engaged by the fitted light bulb changer 900.
The fitted cup 910 and the interconnect 922 of the fitted cup light bulb changer 900 comprise a non-electrical conducting material. In one embodiment, the non-electrical conducting material comprises plastic. In another embodiment, the non-electrical conducting material comprises polymer.
The light bulb is selected from the group comprising recessed type, flood light type, reflector type, regular household type, bent tip decorative type, torpedo shape type, beacon lamp type, track head type, candelabra type, globe type, or compact fixture type lightbulb. In another embodiment, the lightbulb comprises a bulbous portion and a narrow portion, wherein the narrow portion is narrower than the bulbous portion. It should be understood that this list only serves to provide examples, and does not serve to limit the type, size, or shape of the lightbulb to be engaged by the fitted light bulb changer 1000.
The fitted helical structure 1100 and the interconnect 1200 of the fitted helical structure light bulb changer 1000 comprise a non-electrical conducting material. In one embodiment, the non-electrical conducting material comprises plastic. In another embodiment, the non-electrical conducting material comprises polymer. In yet another embodiment, the fitted gripping means and the interconnect comprise a metal.
In some embodiments, the force generator is a pressure generating device. The pressure generator is coupled to the resilient tube structure 2100 and configured to expand the resilient tube structure 2100, increasing its thickness in a direction perpendicular to the axis 97, and causing it to contact a light bulb therewithin and hold it. In alternative embodiments, the force generator is a suction generating device, configured to pull a light bulb into the resilient tube structure 2100 while deforming the tube structure against the light bulb, holding the light bulb.
The resilient tube structure 2100 and the interconnect 2200 of the resilient tube structure light bulb changer 2000 comprise a non-electrical conducting material. In one embodiment, the non-electrical conducting material comprises plastic. In another embodiment, the non-electrical conducting material comprises polymer. In yet another embodiment, the resilient tube structure and the interconnect comprise a metal.
The holding cup 1410 and the interconnect 1422 of the universal light bulb changer 1400 comprise a non-electrical conducting material. In one embodiment, the non-electrical conducting material comprises plastic. In another embodiment, the non-electrical conducting material comprises polymer. In yet another embodiment, the non-electrical conducting material comprises rubber.
The light bulb is selected from the group comprising recessed type, flood light type, reflector type, regular household type, bent tip decorative type, torpedo shape type, beacon lamp type, track head type, candelabra type, globe type, or compact fixture type lightbulb. In another embodiment, the lightbulb 1401, as illustrated comprises a bulbous portion 1402 and a narrow portion 1403, wherein the narrow portion 1403 is narrower than the bulbous portion 1402. It should be understood that this list only serves to provide examples, and does not serve to limit the type, size, or shape of the light bulb to be engaged by the universal light bulb changer 1400 or the resilient tube structure light bulb changer 2000.
The holding cup 1410, and the resilient tube structure 2100 are each used to hold a light bulb 96 for tightening or loosening the light bulb. The resilient tube structure 2100 can be tensioned or spring urged, as described above, to snugly fit over the light bulb 96 to screw or unscrew the light bulb 96 from its socket. Further, the holding cup 1410 and the resilient tube structure 2100 both include interfaces for communication with a force generator configured to selectively force and release a light blue from against the holding cup 1410 and the resilient tube structure 2100 in some embodiments.
In some embodiments, the light bulb changing tool 1400 and the resilient tube structure light bulb changer 2000 (illustrated in
In some embodiments, the present invention is provided as an arm unit, e.g. 102 of
The plurality of articulated fingers 610, the plurality of articulated fingers 711, the plurality of articulated fingers 811, the fitted cup gripping means 910, and the fitted helical structure gripping means 1100 are each used to grip a light bulb 96 for tightening or loosening the light bulb. The plurality of articulated fingers 610, the plurality of articulated fingers 711, the plurality of articulated fingers 811, the fitted cup gripping means 910, or the fitted helical structure gripping means 1100 are tensioned or spring urged, as described above, to snugly fit over the light bulb 96 to screw or unscrew the light bulb 96 from its socket.
In some embodiments, the light bulb changer 600 (illustrated in
The operation in screwing in a light bulb 96 will now be discussed. In operation, as shown in
In one aspect, once the desired configuration is attained, the user adjusts the knobs 114 to allow the light bulb changer 600 (illustrated in
In some embodiments, once the desired configuration is attained, the user adjusts the knobs 114 to allow the universal light bulb changer 1400, or the resilient tube structure light bulb changer 2000 (illustrated in
The interconnect 1710 couples to the arm member 112 (
The holding cup 1702 includes a protrusion 1706 for assisting in alleviating the suction of the suction cup by enabling an edge to be lifted from the light bulb.
The light bulb is selected from the group comprising recessed type, flood light type, reflector type, regular household type, bent tip decorative type, torpedo shape type, beacon lamp type, track head type, candelabra type, globe type, or compact fixture type lightbulb. In another embodiment, the lightbulb comprises a bulbous portion and a narrow portion, wherein the narrow portion is narrower than the bulbous portion. It should be understood that this list only serves to provide examples, and does not serve to limit the type, size, or shape of the lightbulb to be engaged by the suction cup light bulb changer 1700.
In some embodiments, the protruding member 1704 is shaped to fit within an aperture 1714 of the securing member 1712 and to fit within the receiving member 1720. In some embodiments, the protruding member 1704 includes a lateral component 1707 which is of a double-D configuration 1730. The double-D configuration 1730 is such that a backward-facing letter ‘D’ and a forward-facing letter ‘D’ are side-by-side as shown. In some embodiments, the protruding member 1704 includes a longitudinal component 1708 configured for insertion into an aperture 1724 of the receiving member 1720. In some embodiments, the protruding member 1704 has other configurations.
The receiving member 1720 is configured to receive the protruding member 1704. In some embodiments, the receiving member 1720 comprises a slot or groove between oppositely positioned tabs 1722 configured to receive the protruding member 1704, and more specifically, the lateral component 1707 of the protruding member 1704, within the slot or groove between the oppositely positioned tabs 1722. In some embodiments, the receiving member 1720 includes an aperture 1724 configured for receiving the longitudinal component 1708 of the protruding member 1704. The receiving member 1720 is also configured to receive with the securing member 1712. In some embodiments the securing member 1712 is configured to fit around the receiving member 1720. In some embodiments, the receiving member 1720 comprises a beveled component 1726 for receiving the securing member 1712.
In some embodiments, the securing member 1712 is configured to fit around the receiving member 1720 and contains an aperture 1714 so that the protruding member 1704 is able to be inserted into the securing member 1712. In some embodiments, the aperture 1714 is shaped in a double-D configuration (as shown) to receive the protruding member 1704. In some embodiments, the securing member 1712 snap-fits on the receiving member 1720. The securing member 1712 is also configured internally so that when positioned in a lock position, the protruding member 1704 is not removable, and when positioned in an unlock position, the protruding member 1704 is removable. In some embodiments, the securing member 1712 contains internal components and spacings such that the internal components secure the protruding member 1704 with the receiving member 1720 and the spacings allow the protruding member 1704 to be removed from the receiving member 1720. In some embodiments, the securing member 1712 only has a lock position.
In some embodiments, the holding cup 1702, the protruding member 1704, the receiving member 1720 and the securing member 1712 comprise a non-electrical conducting material. In some embodiments, the non-electrical conducting material comprises plastic. In some embodiments, the non-electrical conducting material comprises polymer. In some embodiments, the non-electrical conducting material comprises elastomer. In some embodiments, the holding cup 1702, the protruding member 1704, the receiving member 1720 and/or the securing member 1712 comprise a metal.
As shown in
Within the creased gripping means 1752 are one or more creases 1756. The one or more creases 1756 enable the creased gripping means 1752 to expand slightly to fit around a light bulb and securely hold the light bulb. While the creased gripping means 1752 is expanded, the material of the creased gripping means 1752 exerts an inward force attempting to return to a relaxed, closed position. This increased force provides a more secure grip on the light bulb than a non-creased gripping means.
The creased gripping means 1752 enables a user to change a light bulb from many angles rather than simply directly below.
In some embodiments, the creased gripping means 1752 and the protruding member 1754 of the creased grip light bulb changer 1750 comprise a non-electrical conducting material. In some embodiments, the non-electrical conducting material comprises plastic. In some embodiments, the non-electrical conducting material comprises polymer. In some embodiments, the non-electrical conducting material comprises elastomer. In some embodiments, the creased gripping means 1752 and the protruding member 1754 of the creased grip light bulb changer 1750 comprise a metal.
The light bulb is selected from the group comprising recessed type, flood light type, reflector type, regular household type, bent tip decorative type, torpedo shape type, beacon lamp type, track head type, candelabra type, globe type, or compact fixture type lightbulb. In another embodiment, the lightbulb comprises a bulbous portion and a narrow portion, wherein the narrow portion is narrower than the bulbous portion. It should be understood that this list only serves to provide examples, and does not serve to limit the type, size, or shape of the lightbulb to be engaged by the creased grip light bulb changer 1750.
In some embodiments, the interconnect 1710 is coupled with a non-motorized arm. For example, a creased grip light bulb changer 1750 is coupled with the interconnect 1710 which is coupled with the non-motorized arm. In another example, a holding cup 1702 is coupled with the interconnect 1710 which is coupled with the non-motorized arm.
The present invention has been described in terms of specific embodiments incorporating details to facilitate the understanding of the principles of construction and operation of the invention. Such reference herein to specific embodiments and details thereof is not intended to limit the scope of the claims appended hereto. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications may be made in the embodiment chosen for illustration without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/947,404, filed on Nov. 16, 2010, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,104,380 and entitled “CUSTOMIZABLE LIGHT BULB CHANGER,” which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/618,611, filed on Nov. 13, 2009, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,856,907 and entitled “CUSTOMIZABLE LIGHT BULB CHANGER,” which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/893,021, filed on Aug. 13, 2007, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,631,579 and entitled “CUSTOMIZABLE LIGHT BULB CHANGER,” which is a continuation-in-part of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/345,710 filed on Feb. 1, 2006, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,255,024 and entitled “CUSTOMIZABLE LIGHT BULB CHANGER WITH SUCTION CUP AND CONTROL,” which is a continuation-in-part of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/841,286 filed on May 7, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,143,668 and entitled “CUSTOMIZABLE LIGHT BULB CHANGER”, which is a continuation-in-part of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/823,522 filed on Apr. 12, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,941,841 which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/218,404 filed on Aug. 12, 2002, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,739,220 titled “MOTORIZED LIGHT BULB CHANGER”, which are all hereby incorporated by reference.
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