Patent attributes
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. 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. In other aspect, the illumination device includes two or more LEDs with at least two being primary colors such that in one mode of operation of the illumination module, the two LEDs are illuminated simultaneously to form a secondary color that is illuminated in the waveguide body. In another operating mode, the LEDs are illuminated successively.
