Inventors:
Susan Henoch - Corrales NM, US
International Classification:
H01J040/14
Abstract:
An illumination device includes a waveguide body, a source of illumination, a triggering mechanism, a battery, a connecting ring, and controlling circuitry. The device is attached to an article (such as a set of keys) using the connecting ring. The source of illumination includes at least one light emitting diode (LED) whose output is in optical communication with the waveguide body so that when lit, the LED's output illumination is transmitted throughout the waveguide body. Power to the LED(s) is supplied by the battery and is controlled by the controlling circuitry and the triggering mechanism. The triggering mechanism includes a motion or movement detector, preferably based on an electro-mechanical spring-switch. A method for using the device includes attaching the device to an article, such as a set of keys and shaking the keys (directly or indirectly) to cause the triggering mechanism to signal the controlling circuitry, which in turn, activates at least one LED. The light from the LED transmits throughout the waveguide body creating an even, soft glow-like illumination through the entire body thereby illuminating the relatively large waveguide body of the device.