CA2820968C - Light tower with heater and automatic start/stop function, and related methods - Google Patents
Light tower with heater and automatic start/stop function, and related methods Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2820968C CA2820968C CA2820968A CA2820968A CA2820968C CA 2820968 C CA2820968 C CA 2820968C CA 2820968 A CA2820968 A CA 2820968A CA 2820968 A CA2820968 A CA 2820968A CA 2820968 C CA2820968 C CA 2820968C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- light tower
- mode
- heater
- power source
- controller
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Active
Links
Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F21—LIGHTING
- F21L—LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF, BEING PORTABLE OR SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR TRANSPORTATION
- F21L13/00—Electric lighting devices with built-in electric generators
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F21—LIGHTING
- F21L—LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF, BEING PORTABLE OR SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR TRANSPORTATION
- F21L14/00—Electric lighting devices without a self-contained power source, e.g. for mains connection
- F21L14/04—Electric lighting devices without a self-contained power source, e.g. for mains connection carried on wheeled supports
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- H05B—ELECTRIC HEATING; ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ELECTRIC LIGHT SOURCES, IN GENERAL
- H05B47/00—Circuit arrangements for operating light sources in general, i.e. where the type of light source is not relevant
- H05B47/10—Controlling the light source
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F21—LIGHTING
- F21W—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES F21K, F21L, F21S and F21V, RELATING TO USES OR APPLICATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS
- F21W2131/00—Use or application of lighting devices or systems not provided for in codes F21W2102/00-F21W2121/00
- F21W2131/40—Lighting for industrial, commercial, recreational or military use
- F21W2131/402—Lighting for industrial, commercial, recreational or military use for working places
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Sustainable Development (AREA)
- Sustainable Energy (AREA)
- Circuit Arrangement For Electric Light Sources In General (AREA)
Abstract
A light tower is disclosed comprising: a base with ground engaging elements; a mast secured to the base; one or more lights mounted on the mast; a power source connected to the one or more lights; a heater connected to the power source; and a controller connected to cycle the power source and heater through one or more sequences according to a schedule, each sequence having an off mode, a pre-heat mode where the heater is on, and a lighting mode where the power source is on.
Description
LIGHT TOWER WITH HEATER AND AUTOMATIC START / STOP FUNCTION, AND
RELATED METHODS
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] This document relates to light towers and methods of operating light towers.
BACKGROUND
RELATED METHODS
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] This document relates to light towers and methods of operating light towers.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The LSC100 is a light tower controller made by ALLMANDTm that turns the light tower on and off at predetermined times of day. In cold climates light towers have block heaters that can be manually plugged in to an external power source to allow the light tower to be started despite cold ambient temperatures.
SUMMARY
SUMMARY
[0003] A light tower is disclosed comprising: a base with ground engaging elements;
a mast secured to the base; one or more lights mounted on the mast; a power source connected to the one or more lights; a heater connected to the power source;
and a controller connected to cycle the power source and heater through one or more sequences according to a schedule, each sequence having an off mode, a pre-heat mode where the heater is on, and a lighting mode where the power source is on.
a mast secured to the base; one or more lights mounted on the mast; a power source connected to the one or more lights; a heater connected to the power source;
and a controller connected to cycle the power source and heater through one or more sequences according to a schedule, each sequence having an off mode, a pre-heat mode where the heater is on, and a lighting mode where the power source is on.
[0004] A method is also disclosed of operating a light tower using a controller connected to the light tower, the method comprising: monitoring a time of day;
at a first predetermined time, initiating a pre-heat mode where a heater supplies heat to a power source; at a second predetermined time, initiating a lighting mode where the power source supplies power to one or more lights mounted on the light tower; and at a third predetermined time, initiating a shut off mode where power to the one or more lights is shut off.
at a first predetermined time, initiating a pre-heat mode where a heater supplies heat to a power source; at a second predetermined time, initiating a lighting mode where the power source supplies power to one or more lights mounted on the light tower; and at a third predetermined time, initiating a shut off mode where power to the one or more lights is shut off.
[0005] A light tower comprising: a base with ground engaging elements; a mast secured to the base; one or more lights mounted on the mast; a power source connected to the one or more lights, in which the power source is an engine; a heater connected to the power source; and a controller connected to cycle the power source and heater through one or more sequences according to a schedule, each sequence having an off mode, a pre-heat mode where the heater is on, and a lighting mode where the power source is on.
[0006] A light tower comprising: a base with ground engaging elements; a mast secured to the base; one or more lights mounted on the mast; a power source connected to the one or more lights; a heater connected to the power source; and a controller connected to cycle the power source and heater through one or more sequences according to a schedule, each sequence having an off mode, a pre-heat mode where the heater is on, and a lighting mode where the power source is on; in which the controller further comprises one or more programmable timers, and the one or more programmable timers comprise a dual function timer for timing operation of the heater and power source.
[0007] A method of operating a light tower using a controller connected to the light tower, the method comprising: monitoring a time of day; at a first predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch from an off mode to a pre-heat mode where a heater supplies heat to a power source, in which the power source is an engine; at a second predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch to a lighting mode where the power source supplies power to one or more lights mounted on the light tower; and at a third predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch to the off mode where power to the one or more lights is shut off.
[0008] A method of operating a light tower using a controller connected to the light tower, the method comprising: monitoring a time of day with one or more programmable timers connected to send signals to the controller; at a first predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch from an off mode to a pre-heat mode where a heater supplies heat to a power source; at a second predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch to a lighting mode where the power source supplies power to one or more lights mounted on the light tower; and at a third predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch to the off mode where power to the one or more lights is shut off in which the one or more programmable timers comprise a dual function timer for timing operation of the heater and power source.
[0009] A light tower comprising: a base with ground engaging elements; a mast secured to the base; one or more lights mounted on the mast; a power source connected to the one or more lights; a heater connected to the power source; and a controller connected to automatically cycle the power source and heater through plural 24-hour sequences according to a schedule, each 24-hour sequence having an off mode, a pre-heat mode where the heater is on, and a lighting mode where the power source is on for a predetermined amount of time after which the power source shuts off.
[0010] A method of operating a light tower using a controller connected to the light tower, the method comprising: monitoring a time of day; automatically cycling the light tower, using the controller, through plural 24-hour sequences, which each include the steps of: at a first predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch from an off mode to a pre-heat mode where a heater supplies heat to a power source; at a second predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch to a lighting mode where the power source supplies power to one or more lights mounted on the light tower; and at a third predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch to the off mode where power to the one or more lights is shut off.
[0011] A light tower comprising: a base with ground engaging elements; a mast secured to the base; one or more lights mounted on the mast; a power source connected to the one or more lights; a heater connected to the power source; one or more timers; and a controller connected to automatically cycle the power source and heater through one or more sequences according to a schedule, each sequence having a day off mode, a pre-heat mode where the heater is on, and a night lighting mode where the power source is on; in which, for each sequence the controller is programmed to initiate, based on signals from the one or more timers, the light tower to switch from: the day off mode to the pre-heat mode at a first predetermined time; the pre-heat mode to the night lighting mode at a second predetermined time; and the night lighting mode to the day off mode at a third predetermined time.
[0012] A method of operating a light tower using a controller connected to the light tower, the method comprising: monitoring a time of day with one or more timers connected to send signals to the controller; automatically cycling the light tower, using the controller, through a sequence, which includes the steps of: at a first predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch from an off mode to a pre-heat mode where a heater supplies heat to a power source; at a second predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch to a lighting mode where the power source supplies power to one or more lights mounted on the light tower; and at a third predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch to the off mode where power to the one or more lights is shut off.
[0013] A light tower comprising: a base with ground engaging elements; a mast secured to the base; one or more lights mounted on the mast; a power source connected to the one or more lights; a heater connected to the power source; an ambient-light level sensor;
and a controller connected to automatically cycle, based on signals from the ambient-light level sensor, the power source and heater through one or more sequences according to a schedule, and based on signals from the ambient-light level sensor, each sequence having an off mode, a pre-heat mode where the heater is on, and a lighting mode where the power source is on.
and a controller connected to automatically cycle, based on signals from the ambient-light level sensor, the power source and heater through one or more sequences according to a schedule, and based on signals from the ambient-light level sensor, each sequence having an off mode, a pre-heat mode where the heater is on, and a lighting mode where the power source is on.
[0014] A method of automatically operating a light tower using a controller connected to the light tower, the method comprising: monitoring a time of day with an ambient-light level sensor connected to send signals to the controller; at a first predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch from an off mode to a pre-heat mode where a heater supplies heat to a power source; at a second predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch to a lighting mode where the power source supplies power to one or more lights mounted on the light tower; and at a third predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch to the off mode where power to the one or more lights is shut off.
[0015] In various embodiments, there may be included any one or more of the following features: The power source is an engine. The engine has a liquid coolant circulation system, and the heater is connected to circulate and heat coolant through the liquid coolant circulation system. The heater is a diesel fired heater. A
battery is connected to the heater and controller. The heater, power source, and controller are within a compartment on the base. The controller further comprises one or more programmable timers.
The one or more programmable timers comprises a dual function timer for timing operation of the heater and power source. Each sequence is scheduled to be carried out over a 24 hour period. The light tower is operated by cycling the power source and heater through one or more sequences. The light tower may be located in an environment with a low ambient temperature that can get at or below minus forty degrees Celsius. A
combination of at least twenty of the light towers deployed at a work site. The engine is a fuel-based combustion engine. The engine is a diesel engine. The liquid coolant circulation system is a built-in radiator. The fuel source is connected to the heater and the engine. The fuel source comprises diesel. The dual function timer is independently connected to the engine and the heater. An ambient-light level sensor connected to the controller. The ambient-light level sensor comprises a photocell. The off mode is a day mode, and the lighting mode is a night mode.
The controller is configured to transition between i) the off mode, the pre-heat mode, and the lighting mode during a first transition period around sunset, and ii) the lighting mode and the off mode during a second transition period around sunrise. The one or more sequences comprise a daily sequence, and the schedule is programmed to operate over a plurality of days. The schedule is programmed to operate over a period of time of a month or more. For each daily sequence, the first transition period and the second transition period are associated with a sunset time and a sunrise time, respectively, of a specific day of the year. The first transition period and the second transition period of each daily sequence are programmed to initiate at different times than the first transition periods and the second transition periods of adjacent days in the schedule. The schedule is programmed to operate over plural days. The one or more sequences comprise a daily sequence, and each sequence is different than the sequence of the following day. The schedule is programmed to cycle through two or more sequences in a 24-hour period. The ground-engaging elements are wheels. The base is a mobile base adapted to be towed by a truck. The mast is adapted to move between a stowed position and a deployed position. The lights comprise light emitting diodes (LEDs). The heater is adapted to initiate in an environment with an ambient temperature at or below minus forty degrees Celsius. During the off mode the heater and engine are not operating, during the pre-heat mode the heater is operating and the engine is not operating, and during the lighting mode the heater is not operating and the engine is operating. The controller is adapted to be accessible via one or more wireless networks. The one or more wireless networks comprise one or more of a radio network or the internet. The light tower is adapted to be manually started and stopped as needed in override of the schedule. The controller is connected to provide control signals to the heater and the engine. The pre-heat mode is around thirty minutes. The engine comprises a fuel cell. The power source is an electric power source. During the off mode the heater and power source are not operating, during the pre-heat mode the heater is operating and the power source is not operating, and during the lighting mode the heater is not operating and the power source is operating.
The controller is connected to provide control signals to the heater and the power source. Fuel is supplied from a fuel source to the heater and the engine. The time of day is monitored using one or more programmable timers. The one or more programmable timers comprises a dual function timer for timing operation of the heater and the power source.
Cycling the light tower, using the controller, through a 24-hour sequence, which includes the steps of: at the first predetermined time, initiating the light tower to switch from the off mode to the pre-heat mode; at the second predetermined time, initiating the light tower to switch to the lighting mode, and at the third predetermined time, initiating the light tower to switch to the off mode. Cycling the light tower, using the controller, through a plurality of 24-hour sequences according to a schedule programmed into the controller. The plurality of 24-hour sequences includes a month or more of 24-hour sequences. For each 24-hour sequence: the second predetermined time is programmed to occur around sunset; and the third predetermined time is programmed to occur around sunrise. For each 24-hour sequence, the second predetermined time and the third predetermined time are programmed into the controller to be associated with a sunset time and a sunrise time, respectively, of a day of the year that the 24-hour sequence falls upon. The time of day is monitored using an ambient-light level sensor connected to send signals to the controller. Cycling the light tower, using the controller, through a plurality of 24-hour sequences. The second predetermined time is around sunset; and the third predetermined time is around sunrise. For each 24-hour sequence, the second predetermined time and the third predetermined time, are associated with a sunset time and a sunrise time, respectively, of a day of the year that the 24-hour sequence falls upon. During the off mode the heater and the power source are not operating, during the pre-heat mode the heater is operating and the power source is not operating, and during the lighting mode the heater is not operating and the power source is operating. The one or more programmable timers further comprises a dual function timer for timing operation of the heater and the power source. The light tower further comprises an engine and the engine is a fuel-based combustion engine. The one or more timers further comprise a dual function timer for timing operation of the heater and the power source.
Each sequence is scheduled to be carried out over a 24-hour period. For each sequence, the first transition period and the second transition period are associated with a sunset time and a sunrise time, respectively, of a specific day of the year. For each 24-hour sequence, the second predetermined time, and the third predetermined time, are associated with a sunset time and a sunrise time, respectively, of a day of the year that the 24-hour sequence falls upon.
battery is connected to the heater and controller. The heater, power source, and controller are within a compartment on the base. The controller further comprises one or more programmable timers.
The one or more programmable timers comprises a dual function timer for timing operation of the heater and power source. Each sequence is scheduled to be carried out over a 24 hour period. The light tower is operated by cycling the power source and heater through one or more sequences. The light tower may be located in an environment with a low ambient temperature that can get at or below minus forty degrees Celsius. A
combination of at least twenty of the light towers deployed at a work site. The engine is a fuel-based combustion engine. The engine is a diesel engine. The liquid coolant circulation system is a built-in radiator. The fuel source is connected to the heater and the engine. The fuel source comprises diesel. The dual function timer is independently connected to the engine and the heater. An ambient-light level sensor connected to the controller. The ambient-light level sensor comprises a photocell. The off mode is a day mode, and the lighting mode is a night mode.
The controller is configured to transition between i) the off mode, the pre-heat mode, and the lighting mode during a first transition period around sunset, and ii) the lighting mode and the off mode during a second transition period around sunrise. The one or more sequences comprise a daily sequence, and the schedule is programmed to operate over a plurality of days. The schedule is programmed to operate over a period of time of a month or more. For each daily sequence, the first transition period and the second transition period are associated with a sunset time and a sunrise time, respectively, of a specific day of the year. The first transition period and the second transition period of each daily sequence are programmed to initiate at different times than the first transition periods and the second transition periods of adjacent days in the schedule. The schedule is programmed to operate over plural days. The one or more sequences comprise a daily sequence, and each sequence is different than the sequence of the following day. The schedule is programmed to cycle through two or more sequences in a 24-hour period. The ground-engaging elements are wheels. The base is a mobile base adapted to be towed by a truck. The mast is adapted to move between a stowed position and a deployed position. The lights comprise light emitting diodes (LEDs). The heater is adapted to initiate in an environment with an ambient temperature at or below minus forty degrees Celsius. During the off mode the heater and engine are not operating, during the pre-heat mode the heater is operating and the engine is not operating, and during the lighting mode the heater is not operating and the engine is operating. The controller is adapted to be accessible via one or more wireless networks. The one or more wireless networks comprise one or more of a radio network or the internet. The light tower is adapted to be manually started and stopped as needed in override of the schedule. The controller is connected to provide control signals to the heater and the engine. The pre-heat mode is around thirty minutes. The engine comprises a fuel cell. The power source is an electric power source. During the off mode the heater and power source are not operating, during the pre-heat mode the heater is operating and the power source is not operating, and during the lighting mode the heater is not operating and the power source is operating.
The controller is connected to provide control signals to the heater and the power source. Fuel is supplied from a fuel source to the heater and the engine. The time of day is monitored using one or more programmable timers. The one or more programmable timers comprises a dual function timer for timing operation of the heater and the power source.
Cycling the light tower, using the controller, through a 24-hour sequence, which includes the steps of: at the first predetermined time, initiating the light tower to switch from the off mode to the pre-heat mode; at the second predetermined time, initiating the light tower to switch to the lighting mode, and at the third predetermined time, initiating the light tower to switch to the off mode. Cycling the light tower, using the controller, through a plurality of 24-hour sequences according to a schedule programmed into the controller. The plurality of 24-hour sequences includes a month or more of 24-hour sequences. For each 24-hour sequence: the second predetermined time is programmed to occur around sunset; and the third predetermined time is programmed to occur around sunrise. For each 24-hour sequence, the second predetermined time and the third predetermined time are programmed into the controller to be associated with a sunset time and a sunrise time, respectively, of a day of the year that the 24-hour sequence falls upon. The time of day is monitored using an ambient-light level sensor connected to send signals to the controller. Cycling the light tower, using the controller, through a plurality of 24-hour sequences. The second predetermined time is around sunset; and the third predetermined time is around sunrise. For each 24-hour sequence, the second predetermined time and the third predetermined time, are associated with a sunset time and a sunrise time, respectively, of a day of the year that the 24-hour sequence falls upon. During the off mode the heater and the power source are not operating, during the pre-heat mode the heater is operating and the power source is not operating, and during the lighting mode the heater is not operating and the power source is operating. The one or more programmable timers further comprises a dual function timer for timing operation of the heater and the power source. The light tower further comprises an engine and the engine is a fuel-based combustion engine. The one or more timers further comprise a dual function timer for timing operation of the heater and the power source.
Each sequence is scheduled to be carried out over a 24-hour period. For each sequence, the first transition period and the second transition period are associated with a sunset time and a sunrise time, respectively, of a specific day of the year. For each 24-hour sequence, the second predetermined time, and the third predetermined time, are associated with a sunset time and a sunrise time, respectively, of a day of the year that the 24-hour sequence falls upon.
[0016] These and other aspects of the device and method are set out in the claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0017] Embodiments will now be described with reference to the figures, in which like reference characters denote like elements, by way of example, and in which:
[0018] The Figure is a side elevation view of a light tower, with dashed lines used to indicate a close up of the contents of the engine compartment of the light tower.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0019] Immaterial modifications may be made to the embodiments described here without departing from what is covered by the claims.
[0020] Light towers are used to permit work to be done in dark areas or during times of day such as night when light levels are low. Light towers are mobile units that can be conveniently towed and positioned where needed and provide a modular source of light to a work site. Safety requirements at oil industry and other work sites require good lighting at night. A single work site may operate a fleet of up to thousands of light towers in order to provide sufficient light for safe work conditions.
[0021] Light towers are often run during the winter months (from November to May) without being turned off. Such operation consumes excess fuel during day hours where the light tower is operating yet ambient light levels are bright enough to perform work without the light tower on. Work sites keep the light towers on during these months because it is uneconomical and inefficient to have a team of people manually turning the light towers on and off, and because even if the light towers could be turned off the engines of the light towers would freeze on cold days and be unable to be re-started when needed.
For the latter reason the LSC100 is not believed to be in use in cold climates. Block heaters are supplied to pre-heat frozen engines but since it is uneconomical to manually turn the light towers on and off in the first place it is even less economical to manually plug in and unplug a block heater for each light tower. In addition, it is not feasible to provide the necessary electricity sources for block heater operation on a work site, especially with work sites that are remote and off the electrical grid. Hence, work sites simply keep the fleet of light towers on all day and all night during the winter months.
For the latter reason the LSC100 is not believed to be in use in cold climates. Block heaters are supplied to pre-heat frozen engines but since it is uneconomical to manually turn the light towers on and off in the first place it is even less economical to manually plug in and unplug a block heater for each light tower. In addition, it is not feasible to provide the necessary electricity sources for block heater operation on a work site, especially with work sites that are remote and off the electrical grid. Hence, work sites simply keep the fleet of light towers on all day and all night during the winter months.
[0022] Referring to the Figure, a light tower 10 is illustrated having a base 13, a mast 14, one or more lights 16, a power source such as an engine 22, a heater 20, and a controller 18. Base 13 has ground engaging elements such as telescopic anchor posts 12 and wheels 15.
Base 13 may be a mobile base with wheels 15 and thus capable of being towed by a truck.
Mast 14 is secured to base 13, and may have a deployed (shown) and stowed position (not shown). Mast 14 may use one or more conventional methods for moving between the deployed and stowed position such as by telescopic extension and retraction of mast 14, and by rotation from the vertical position shown to a horizontal or angled stowed position (not shown). One or more lights 16 may be mounted on the mast 14, for example at or near a top end 17 of mast 14. Lights 16 may be metal halide lights, light emitting diodes (LEDs) or other suitable lights. Engine 22 is connected to lights 16 for example by appropriate wiring and circuitry 66.
Base 13 may be a mobile base with wheels 15 and thus capable of being towed by a truck.
Mast 14 is secured to base 13, and may have a deployed (shown) and stowed position (not shown). Mast 14 may use one or more conventional methods for moving between the deployed and stowed position such as by telescopic extension and retraction of mast 14, and by rotation from the vertical position shown to a horizontal or angled stowed position (not shown). One or more lights 16 may be mounted on the mast 14, for example at or near a top end 17 of mast 14. Lights 16 may be metal halide lights, light emitting diodes (LEDs) or other suitable lights. Engine 22 is connected to lights 16 for example by appropriate wiring and circuitry 66.
[0023] Heater 20 may be a diesel or other type of fuel fired heater. Heater 20 is connected to the engine 22, for example by connection to a liquid coolant circulation system, such as a built in radiator, of engine 22. To connect to the liquid coolant circulation system the heater 20 may employ coolant supply and return lines 38 and 36, respectively connected to the coolant supply and return ports 32 and 34 of engine 22. In the example shown the heater 20 is connected to circulate and heat engine coolant through the liquid coolant circulation system. Such an arrangement permits a light tower that employs an engine 22 with a coolant system to be retrofitted with heater 20.
[0024] A fuel source 30 may be connected to pump fuel using fuel pump 40 to heater 20 through one or more fuel lines 42 and 44. Fuel source 30 may be the fuel source for the engine 22, so that heater 20 uses the existing fuel source as opposed to requiring an independent fuel source. Fuel received by heater 20 may be ignited or combusted by flame or flameless methods to heat and circulate engine coolant through engine 22.
One or more coolant pumps (not shown) may be used to circulate coolant. Coolant used during winter months will be rated to remain in a liquid or flowable state at ambient temperatures so that heater 20 is able to circulate coolant through engine 22. In places like Fort McMurray, Alberta, coolant may be rated to minus sixty degrees Celsius. A heater 20 that is not fuel fired may also be used such as a block heater (not shown).
One or more coolant pumps (not shown) may be used to circulate coolant. Coolant used during winter months will be rated to remain in a liquid or flowable state at ambient temperatures so that heater 20 is able to circulate coolant through engine 22. In places like Fort McMurray, Alberta, coolant may be rated to minus sixty degrees Celsius. A heater 20 that is not fuel fired may also be used such as a block heater (not shown).
[0025] Controller 18 is connected to send control signals to engine 22 and heater 20 for example through control lines 52, and 60. Controller 18 will cycle the engine 22 and heater 20 through one or more sequences according to a schedule, such schedule being predetermined and in some cases directly programmable at the light tower 10 itself. Each sequence has at least an off mode, a pre-heat mode, and a lighting mode.
[0026] The controller 18 may operate by monitoring the time of day and initiating various events according to the preset schedule. Monitoring the time of day may be accomplished by various methods such as using a timer 26, which may be a dual function timer 26 independently connected to an engine control unit 24 and heater 20.
Timer 26 may be one or more programmable timers. A dual function timer 26 may have one function for timing operation of the engine 22 and the other function for timing operation of the heater 20. The dual function timer 26 permits retrofitting of an LSC100 controller by swapping the built-in timer with a dual function timer 26 and a heater 20. Each sequence may be scheduled to be carried out over a twenty four hour period. Other monitoring methods include using a sensor such as a photocell 27, to monitor light levels and respond accordingly. In one embodiment, sensor 27 is connected to engine control unit 24 by control lines SOB and engine control unit 24 is connected to heater 20 by control lines 60B. Instead of a dual function timer two or more timers may be used.
Timer 26 may be one or more programmable timers. A dual function timer 26 may have one function for timing operation of the engine 22 and the other function for timing operation of the heater 20. The dual function timer 26 permits retrofitting of an LSC100 controller by swapping the built-in timer with a dual function timer 26 and a heater 20. Each sequence may be scheduled to be carried out over a twenty four hour period. Other monitoring methods include using a sensor such as a photocell 27, to monitor light levels and respond accordingly. In one embodiment, sensor 27 is connected to engine control unit 24 by control lines SOB and engine control unit 24 is connected to heater 20 by control lines 60B. Instead of a dual function timer two or more timers may be used.
[0027] An exemplary sequence may begin with both the heater 20 and engine turned off or otherwise not operational. When the controller 18 detects a first predetermined time, such as half past three o'clock in the afternoon, the pre-heat mode may be initiated by for example the controller 18, in this case timer 26, sending a signal to heater 20 through control lines 60. Once heater 20 is activated, heater 20 begins to supply heat to engine 22 for example by circulating heated coolant through lines 36 and 38. In some cases the schedule may be programmed for a single day or plural days, for example if a thirty one day programmable timer is used.
[0028] The controller 18 continues to monitor the time, and at a second predetermined time, such as four o'clock in the afternoon of the same day or after a sufficient pre-heat period has elapsed, a lighting mode is initiated by for example the controller 18, in this case timer 26, sending a signal to engine controller 24 through lines 50, and controller 24 then sending signals to engine 22 through lines 52. When the lighting mode is initiated, the engine 22 turns on and supplies power to the one or more lights 16. During the lighting mode the heater 20 may be shut off if not needed, for example on initiation of the lighting mode or after a suitable predetermined time interval after initiation of the lighting mode. Engine 22 may act as a generator converting fuel energy into electricity and sending the electricity to lights 16 via circuitry 66. Controller 24 may modulate and otherwise maintain operation of engine 22 as needed to operate lights 16.
[0029] Finally, when controller 18 detects a third predetermined time, such as half past eight o'clock in the morning the next day, controller 18 initiates the shut off mode, for example by timer 26 sending a signal to engine controller 24 through lines 50, and controller 24 sending a signal to engine 22 through lines 52. The light tower 10 may then enter a rest state where in some cases only timer 26 is operating and where lights 16 are off. In environments like work site 11 with an ambient temperature at or below minus forty degrees Celsius, engine 22 of light tower 10 will be hot enough to properly and safely re-start before each lighting mode is initiated.
[0030] The light tower 10 may be cycled through the same or a modified sequence the next day. In some cases the light tower 10 may be cycled through two or more of the sequences in a twenty four hour period.
[0031] A battery 28 may be connected to one or more system components such as controller 18 and heater 20, using lines 46. Battery 28 may be used to provide ongoing power to controller 18 and heater 20, or may be used at least to provide the power required to start up controller 18 and heater 20.
[0032] The heater 20, engine 22, and controller 18 may be mounted within an engine compartment 64 in base 13. In the Figure dashed lines 65 illustrate that other components may be present in compartment 64. By providing all components within compartment 64 or otherwise connected to or part of light tower 10, no external parts or connections may be needed to operate light tower 10.
[0033] The schedule followed by controller 18 may be programmed by direct access to controller 18 by a worker, or remotely through one or more networks (not shown) such as a radio network or internet.
[0034] A fleet, for example twenty or more, of the light towers disclosed in this document may be deployed at work site 11 at once. In some cases the only worker intervention that may be necessary for operation of the fleet may involve topping up fuel supplies and performing the initial programming of controller 18.
[0035] Although a fuel-based combustion engine 22 is used as a power source in the example shown, other power sources may be used such as an electric engine or fuel cell.
When a component is described as being off, it should be understood that some base level of activity may still be occurring within the component. Exemplary heaters 20 include the TSL
17 made by WEBASTO'. Exemplary timers include a thirty one day programmable timer made by PROHEATTm. Other makes and models may be used. The light tower 10 may incorporate other components not discussed for example a ballast system for weighing down the light tower 10 in high winds. The light tower 10 may have a mode where the light tower can be manually started and stopped as needed outside of the normal operating period under the schedule.
When a component is described as being off, it should be understood that some base level of activity may still be occurring within the component. Exemplary heaters 20 include the TSL
17 made by WEBASTO'. Exemplary timers include a thirty one day programmable timer made by PROHEATTm. Other makes and models may be used. The light tower 10 may incorporate other components not discussed for example a ballast system for weighing down the light tower 10 in high winds. The light tower 10 may have a mode where the light tower can be manually started and stopped as needed outside of the normal operating period under the schedule.
[0036] In the claims, the word "comprising" is used in its inclusive sense and does not exclude other elements being present. The indefinite articles "a" and "an"
before a claim feature do not exclude more than one of the feature being present. Each one of the individual features described here may be used in one or more embodiments and is not, by virtue only of being described here, to be construed as essential to all embodiments as defined by the claims.
before a claim feature do not exclude more than one of the feature being present. Each one of the individual features described here may be used in one or more embodiments and is not, by virtue only of being described here, to be construed as essential to all embodiments as defined by the claims.
Claims (171)
OR PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:
1. A light tower comprising:
a base with ground engaging elements;
a mast secured to the base;
one or more lights mounted on the mast;
a power source connected to the one or more lights, in which the power source is an engine;
a heater connected to the power source; and a controller connected to cycle the power source and heater through one or more sequences according to a schedule, each sequence having an off mode, a pre-heat mode where the heater is on, and a lighting mode where the power source is on.
a base with ground engaging elements;
a mast secured to the base;
one or more lights mounted on the mast;
a power source connected to the one or more lights, in which the power source is an engine;
a heater connected to the power source; and a controller connected to cycle the power source and heater through one or more sequences according to a schedule, each sequence having an off mode, a pre-heat mode where the heater is on, and a lighting mode where the power source is on.
2. The light tower of claim 1 in which the engine is a fuel-based combustion engine.
3. The light tower of claim 2 in which the engine is a diesel engine.
4. The light tower of claim 1 - 3 in which the engine has a liquid coolant circulation system, and the heater is connected to circulate and heat coolant through the liquid coolant circulation system.
5. The light tower of claim 4 in which the liquid coolant circulation system is a built-in radiator.
6. The light tower of any one of claim 1 - 5 in which the heater is a diesel fired heater.
7. The light tower of any one of claim 1 - 6 further comprising a fuel source connected to the heater and the engine.
8. The light tower of claim 7 in which the fuel source comprises diesel.
9. The light tower of claim 1 - 8 further comprising a battery connected to the heater and controller.
10. The light tower of any one of claim 1 - 9 in which the heater, power source, and controller are within a compartment on the base.
11. The light tower of any one of claim 1 - 10 in which the controller further comprises one or more programmable timers.
12. The light tower of claim 11 in which the one or more programmable timers comprises a dual function timer for timing operation of the heater and power source.
13. The light tower of claim 12 in which the dual function timer is independently connected to the engine and the heater.
14. The light tower of any one of claim 1 - 10 further comprising an ambient-light level sensor connected to the controller.
15. The light tower of claim 14 in which the ambient-light level sensor comprises a photocell.
16. The light tower of any one of claim 1 - 15 in which each sequence is scheduled to be carried out over a 24 hour period.
17. The light tower of claim 16 in which the off mode is a day mode, and the lighting mode is a night mode.
18. The light tower of claim 17 in which the controller is configured to transition between i) the off mode, the pre-heat mode, and the lighting mode during a first transition period around sunset, and ii) the lighting mode and the off mode during a second transition period around sunrise.
19. The light tower of claim 18 in which the one or more sequences comprise a daily sequence, and the schedule is programmed to operate over a plurality of days.
20. The light tower of claim 19 in which the schedule is programmed to operate over a period of time of a month or more.
21. The light tower of any one of claim 19 - 20 in which, for each daily sequence, the first transition period and the second transition period are associated with a sunset time and a sunrise time, respectively, of a specific day of the year.
22. The light tower of claim 21 in which the first transition period and the second transition period of each daily sequence are programmed to initiate at different times than the first transition periods and the second transition periods of adjacent days in the schedule.
23. The light tower of any one of claim 1 - 16 in which the schedule is programmed to operate over plural days.
24. The light tower of claim 23 in which the schedule is programmed to operate over a period of time of a month or more.
25. The light tower of claim 24 in which the one or more sequences comprise a daily sequence, and each sequence is different than the sequence of the following day.
26. The light tower of any one of claim 1 - 15 in which the schedule is programmed to cycle through two or more sequences in a 24-hour period.
27. The light tower of any one of claim 1 - 26 in which the ground-engaging elements are wheels.
28. The light tower of claim 27 in which the base is a mobile base adapted to be towed by a truck.
29. The light tower of any one of claim 1 - 28 in which the mast is adapted to move between a stowed position and a deployed position.
30. The light tower of any one of claim 1 - 29 in which the lights comprise light emitting diodes (LEDs).
31. The light tower of any one of claim 1 - 30 in which the heater is adapted to initiate in an environment with an ambient temperature at or below minus forty degrees Celsius.
32. The light tower of any one of claim 1 - 31 in which during the off mode the heater and engine are not operating, during the pre-heat mode the heater is operating and the engine is not operating, and during the lighting mode the heater is not operating and the engine is operating.
33. The light tower of any one of claim 1 - 32 in which the controller is adapted to be accessible via one or more wireless networks.
34. The light tower of claim 33 in which the one or more wireless networks comprise one or more of a radio network or the internet.
35. The light tower of any one of claim 1 - 34 in which the light tower is adapted to be manually started and stopped as needed in override of the schedule.
36. The light tower of any one of claim 1 - 35 in which the controller is connected to provide control signals to the heater and the engine.
37. The light tower of any one of claim 1 - 36 in which the pre-heat mode is around thirty minutes.
38. A method of operating the light tower of any one of claim 1 - 37 by cycling the power source and heater through one or more sequences.
39. The method of operating the light tower of any one of claim 1 - 38 carried out while the light tower is located in an environment with an ambient temperature of or below minus forty degrees Celsius.
40. A combination of at least twenty of the light towers of any one of claims 1 - 37 deployed at a work site.
41. A light tower comprising:
a base with ground engaging elements;
a mast secured to the base;
one or more lights mounted on the mast;
a power source connected to the one or more lights;
a heater connected to the power source; and a controller connected to cycle the power source and heater through one or more sequences according to a schedule, each sequence having an off mode, a pre-heat mode where the heater is on, and a lighting mode where the power source is on;
in which the controller further comprises one or more programmable timers, and the one or more programmable timers comprise a dual function timer for timing operation of the heater and power source.
a base with ground engaging elements;
a mast secured to the base;
one or more lights mounted on the mast;
a power source connected to the one or more lights;
a heater connected to the power source; and a controller connected to cycle the power source and heater through one or more sequences according to a schedule, each sequence having an off mode, a pre-heat mode where the heater is on, and a lighting mode where the power source is on;
in which the controller further comprises one or more programmable timers, and the one or more programmable timers comprise a dual function timer for timing operation of the heater and power source.
42. The light tower of claim 41 in which the power source is an engine.
43. The light tower of claim 42 in which the engine is a fuel-based combustion engine.
44. The light tower of claim 43 in which the engine is a diesel engine.
45. The light tower of claim 41 in which the engine comprises a fuel cell.
46. The light tower of any one of claim 41 - 45 in which the heater is a diesel fired heater.
47. The light tower of any one of claim 41 - 46 further comprising a fuel source connected to the heater and the power source.
48. The light tower of claim 47 in which the fuel source comprises diesel.
49. The light tower of claim 41 in which the power source is an electric power source.
50. The light tower of any one of claim 41 - 49 in which the power source has a liquid coolant circulation system, and the heater is connected to circulate and heat coolant through the liquid coolant circulation system.
51. The light tower of claim 50 in which the liquid coolant circulation system is a built-in radiator.
52. The light tower of any one of claim 41 - 51 further comprising a battery connected to the heater and controller.
53. The light tower of any one of claim 41 - 52 in which the heater, power source, and controller are within a compartment on the base.
54. The light tower of any one of claim 41 - 53 in which the dual function timer is independently connected to the power source and the heater.
55. The light tower of any one of claim 41 - 54 in which each sequence is scheduled to be carried out over a 24 hour period.
56. The light tower of claim 55 in which the off mode is a day mode, and the lighting mode is a night mode.
57. The light tower of claim 56 in which the controller is configured to transition between i) the off mode, the pre-heat mode, and the lighting mode during a first transition period around sunset, and ii) the lighting mode and the off mode during a second transition period around sunrise.
58. The light tower of claim 57 in which the one or more sequences comprise a daily sequence, and the schedule is programmed to operate over a plurality of days.
59. The light tower of claim 58 in which the schedule is programmed to operate over a period of time of a month or more.
60. The light tower of any one of claim 58 - 59 in which, for each daily sequence, the first transition period and the second transition period are associated with a sunset time and a sunrise time, respectively, of a specific day of the year.
61. The light tower of claim 60 in which the first transition period and the second transition period of each daily sequence are programmed to initiate at different times than the first transition periods and the second transition periods of adjacent days in the schedule.
62. The light tower of any one of claim 41 - 55 in which the schedule is programmed to operate over plural days.
63. The light tower of claim 62 in which the schedule is programmed to operate over a period of time of a month or more.
64. The light tower of claim 63 in which the one or more sequences comprise a daily sequence, and each sequence is different than the sequence of the following day.
65. The light tower of any one of claim 41 - 54 in which the schedule is programmed to cycle through two or more sequences in a 24-hour period.
66. The light tower of any one of claim 41 - 65 in which the ground-engaging elements are wheels.
67. The light tower of claim 66 in which the base is a mobile base adapted to be towed by a truck.
68. The light tower of any one of claim 41 - 67 in which the mast is adapted to move between a stowed position and a deployed position.
69. The light tower of any one of claim 41 - 68 in which the lights comprise light emitting diodes (LEDs).
70. The light tower of any one of claim 41 - 69 in which the heater is adapted to initiate in an environment with an ambient temperature at or below minus forty degrees Celsius.
71. The light tower of any one of claim 41 - 70 in which during the off mode the heater and power source are not operating, during the pre-heat mode the heater is operating and the power source is not operating, and during the lighting mode the heater is not operating and the power source is operating.
72. The light tower of any one of claim 41 - 71 in which the controller is adapted to be accessible via one or more wireless networks.
73. The light tower of claim 72 in which the one or more wireless networks comprise one or more of a radio network or the internet.
74. The light tower of any one of claim 41 - 73 in which the light tower is adapted to be manually started and stopped as needed in override of the schedule.
75. The light tower of any one of claim 41 - 74 in which the controller is connected to provide control signals to the heater and the power source.
76. The light tower of any one of claim 41 - 75 in which the pre-heat mode is around thirty minutes.
77. A method of operating the light tower of any one of claim 41 - 76 by cycling the power source and heater through one or more sequences.
78. The method of operating the light tower of any one of claim 41 - 77 carried out while the light tower is located in an environment with an ambient temperature of or below minus forty degrees Celsius.
79. A combination of at least twenty of the light towers of any one of claim 41 - 76 deployed at a work site.
80. A method of operating a light tower using a controller connected to the light tower, the method comprising:
monitoring a time of day;
at a first predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch from an off mode to a pre-heat mode where a heater supplies heat to a power source, in which the power source is an engine;
at a second predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch to a lighting mode where the power source supplies power to one or more lights mounted on the light tower; and at a third predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch to the off mode where power to the one or more lights is shut off.
monitoring a time of day;
at a first predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch from an off mode to a pre-heat mode where a heater supplies heat to a power source, in which the power source is an engine;
at a second predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch to a lighting mode where the power source supplies power to one or more lights mounted on the light tower; and at a third predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch to the off mode where power to the one or more lights is shut off.
81. The method of claim 80 in which the engine is a fuel-based combustion engine.
82. The method of claim 81, further comprising supplying fuel from a fuel source to the heater and the engine.
83. The method of any one of claim 80 - 82 in which the heater is a diesel fired heater.
84. The method of claim 83 in which the engine is a diesel engine.
85. The method of any one of claim 80 - 84, in which the heater is connected to a liquid coolant circulation system, and further comprising, when in the pre-heat mode, circulating coolant between the heater and the liquid coolant circulation system.
86. The method of any one of claim 80 - 85 in which the time of day is monitored using one or more programmable timers.
87. The method of claim 86 in which the one or more programmable timers comprises a dual function timer for timing operation of the heater and the power source.
88. The method of any one of claim 86 - 87 further comprising automatically cycling the light tower, using the controller, through a 24-hour sequence, which includes the steps of:
at the first predetermined time, initiating the light tower to switch from the off mode to the pre-heat mode;
at the second predetermined time, initiating the light tower to switch to the lighting mode, and at the third predetermined time, initiating the light tower to switch to the off mode.
at the first predetermined time, initiating the light tower to switch from the off mode to the pre-heat mode;
at the second predetermined time, initiating the light tower to switch to the lighting mode, and at the third predetermined time, initiating the light tower to switch to the off mode.
89. The method of claim 88 further comprising, cycling the light tower, using the controller, through a plurality of 24-hour sequences according to a schedule programmed into the controller.
90. The method of claim 89 in which the plurality of 24-hour sequences includes a month or more of 24-hour sequences.
91. The method of any one of claim 89 -90 in which the off mode is a day mode, and the lighting mode is a night mode.
92. The method of claim 91 in which for each 24-hour sequence:
the second predetermined time is programmed to occur around sunset; and the third predetermined time is programmed to occur around sunrise.
the second predetermined time is programmed to occur around sunset; and the third predetermined time is programmed to occur around sunrise.
93. The method of claim 92 in which, for each 24-hour sequence, the second predetermined time and the third predetermined time are programmed into the controller to be associated with a sunset time and a sunrise time, respectively, of a day of the year that the 24-hour sequence falls upon.
94. The method of any one of claim 80 - 85 in which the time of day is monitored using an ambient-light level sensor connected to send signals to the controller.
95. The method of claim 94 in which the ambient-light level sensor comprises a photocell.
96. The method of claim 94 - 95 further comprising automatically cycling the light tower, using the controller, through a 24-hour sequence, which includes the steps of:
at the first predetermined time, initiating the light tower to switch from the off mode to the pre-heat mode;
at the second predetermined time, initiating the light tower to switch to the lighting mode, and at the third predetermined time, initiating the light tower to switch to the off mode.
at the first predetermined time, initiating the light tower to switch from the off mode to the pre-heat mode;
at the second predetermined time, initiating the light tower to switch to the lighting mode, and at the third predetermined time, initiating the light tower to switch to the off mode.
97. The method of claim 96 further comprising, cycling the light tower, using the controller, through a plurality of 24-hour sequences.
98. The method of claim 97 in which the plurality of 24-hour sequences includes a month or more of 24-hour sequences.
99. The method of any one of claim 97 - 98 in which the off mode is a day mode, and the lighting mode is a night mode.
100. The method of claim 99 in which:
the second predetermined time is around sunset; and the third predetermined time is around sunrise.
the second predetermined time is around sunset; and the third predetermined time is around sunrise.
101. The method of claim 100 in which, for each 24-hour sequence, the second predetermined time and the third predetermined time, are associated with a sunset time and a sunrise time, respectively, of a day of the year that the 24-hour sequence falls upon.
102. The method of claim 80 - 101 in which the light tower comprises ground-engaging wheels.
103. The method of claim 102 in which the light tower comprises a mobile base adapted to be towed by a truck.
104. The method of any one of claim 80 - 103 in which during the off mode the heater and the power source are not operating, during the pre-heat mode the heater is operating and the power source is not operating, and during the lighting mode the heater is not operating and the power source is operating.
105. The method of any one of claim 80 - 104 carried out while the light tower is located in an environment with an ambient temperature of or below minus forty degrees Celsius.
106. A method of operating a light tower using a controller connected to the light tower, the method comprising;
monitoring a time of day with one or more programmable timers connected to send signals to the controller;
at a first predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch from an off mode to a pre-heat mode where a heater supplies heat to a power source;
at a second predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch to a lighting mode where the power source supplies power to one or more lights mounted on the light tower; and at a third predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch to the off mode where power to the one or more lights is shut off;
in which the one or more programmable timers comprise a dual function timer for timing operation of the heater and power source.
monitoring a time of day with one or more programmable timers connected to send signals to the controller;
at a first predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch from an off mode to a pre-heat mode where a heater supplies heat to a power source;
at a second predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch to a lighting mode where the power source supplies power to one or more lights mounted on the light tower; and at a third predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch to the off mode where power to the one or more lights is shut off;
in which the one or more programmable timers comprise a dual function timer for timing operation of the heater and power source.
107. The method of claim 106 in which the power source is an engine.
108. The method of claim 107 in which the engine is a fuel-based combustion engine.
109. The method of claim 108, further comprising supplying fuel from a fuel source to the heater and the engine.
110. The method of any one of claim 107 - 109 in which the heater is a diesel fired heater.
111. The method of claim 110 in which the engine is a diesel engine.
112. The method of any one of claim 107 - 111, in which the heater is connected to a liquid coolant circulation system, and further comprising, when in the pre-heat mode, circulating coolant between the heater and the liquid coolant circulation system.
113. The method of any one of claim 106 - 112 further comprising automatically cycling the light tower, using the controller, through a 24-hour sequence, which includes the steps of:
at the first predetermined time, initiating the light tower to switch from the off mode to the pre-heat mode;
at the second predetermined time, initiating the light tower to switch to the lighting mode, and at the third predetermined time, initiating the light tower to switch to the off mode.
at the first predetermined time, initiating the light tower to switch from the off mode to the pre-heat mode;
at the second predetermined time, initiating the light tower to switch to the lighting mode, and at the third predetermined time, initiating the light tower to switch to the off mode.
114. The method of claim 113 further comprising, cycling the light tower, using the controller, through a plurality of 24-hour sequences according to a schedule programmed into the controller.
115. The method of claim 114 in which the plurality of 24-hour sequences includes a month or more of 24-hour sequences.
116. The method of any one of claim 114 - 115 in which the off mode is a day mode, and the lighting mode is a night mode.
117. The method of claim 116 in which for each 24-hour sequence:
the second predetermined time is programmed to occur around sunset; and the third predetermined time is programmed to occur around sunrise.
the second predetermined time is programmed to occur around sunset; and the third predetermined time is programmed to occur around sunrise.
118. The method of claim 117 in which, for each 24-hour sequence, the second predetermined time and the third predetermined time are programmed into the controller to be associated with a sunset time and a sunrise time, respectively, of a day of the year that the 24-hour sequence falls upon.
119. The method of claim 106 - 118 in which the light tower comprises ground-engaging wheels.
120. The method of claim 119 in which the light tower comprises a mobile base adapted to be towed by a truck.
121. The method of any one of claim 106 - 120 in which during the off mode the heater and the power source are not operating, during the pre-heat mode the heater is operating and the power source is not operating, and during the lighting mode the heater is not operating and the power source is operating.
122. The method of any one of claim 106 - 121 carried out while the light tower is located in an environment with an ambient temperature of or below minus forty degrees Celsius.
123. A light tower comprising:
a base with ground engaging elements;
a mast secured to the base;
one or more lights mounted on the mast;
a power source connected to the one or more lights;
a heater connected to the power source; and a controller connected to automatically cycle the power source and heater through plural 24-hour sequences according to a schedule, each 24-hour sequence having an off mode, a pre-heat mode where the heater is on, and a lighting mode where the power source is on for a predetermined amount of time after which the power source shuts off.
a base with ground engaging elements;
a mast secured to the base;
one or more lights mounted on the mast;
a power source connected to the one or more lights;
a heater connected to the power source; and a controller connected to automatically cycle the power source and heater through plural 24-hour sequences according to a schedule, each 24-hour sequence having an off mode, a pre-heat mode where the heater is on, and a lighting mode where the power source is on for a predetermined amount of time after which the power source shuts off.
124. The light tower of claim 123 in which the power source is a fuel-based combustion engine.
125. The light tower of claim 123 - 124 in which the power source has a liquid coolant circulation system, and the heater is connected to circulate and heat coolant through the liquid coolant circulation system.
126. The light tower of any one of claim 123 - 125 in which the controller further comprises one or more programmable timers.
127. The light tower of claim 126 in which the one or more programmable timers further comprises a dual function timer for timing operation of the heater and the power source.
128. The light tower of any one of claims 123 - 127 in which the off mode is a day mode, and the lighting mode is a night mode.
129. The light tower of claim 128 in which the controller is configured to transition between i) the off mode, the pre-heat mode, and the lighting mode during a first transition period around sunset, and ii) the lighting mode and the off mode during a second transition period around sunrise.
130. The light tower of claim 129 in which, for each daily sequence, the first transition period and the second transition period are associated with a sunset time and a sunrise time, respectively, of a specific day of the year.
131. The light tower of any one of claim 123 - 130 in which the heater is adapted to initiate in an environment with an ambient temperature at or below minus forty degrees Celsius.
132. A method of operating a light tower using a controller connected to the light tower, the method comprising:
monitoring a time of day;
automatically cycling the light tower, using the controller, through plural 24-hour sequences, which each include the steps of:
at a first predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch from an off mode to a pre-heat mode where a heater supplies heat to a power source;
at a second predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch to a lighting mode where the power source supplies power to one or more lights mounted on the light tower; and at a third predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch to the off mode where power to the one or more lights is shut off.
monitoring a time of day;
automatically cycling the light tower, using the controller, through plural 24-hour sequences, which each include the steps of:
at a first predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch from an off mode to a pre-heat mode where a heater supplies heat to a power source;
at a second predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch to a lighting mode where the power source supplies power to one or more lights mounted on the light tower; and at a third predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch to the off mode where power to the one or more lights is shut off.
133. The method of claim 132 in which the light tower further comprises an engine and the engine is a fuel-based combustion engine.
134. The method of any one of claim 132 - 133 in which the time of day is monitored using one or more programmable timers.
135. The method of claim 134 in which the one or more programmable timers comprises a dual function timer for timing operation of the heater and the power source.
136. The method of any one of claim 132 - 133 in which the time of day is monitored using an ambient-light level sensor connected to send signals to the controller.
137. The method of any one of claim 132 -136 in which the off mode is a day mode, and the lighting mode is a night mode.
138. The method of claim 137 in which for each 24-hour sequence:
the second predetermined time is programmed to occur around sunset; and the third predetermined time is programmed to occur around sunrise.
the second predetermined time is programmed to occur around sunset; and the third predetermined time is programmed to occur around sunrise.
139. The method of any one of claim 132 - 138 carried out while the light tower is located in an environment with an ambient temperature of or below minus forty degrees Celsius.
140. A light tower comprising:
a base with ground engaging elements;
a mast secured to the base;
one or more lights mounted on the mast;
a power source connected to the one or more lights;
a heater connected to the power source;
one or more timers; and a controller connected to automatically cycle the power source and heater through one or more sequences according to a schedule, each sequence having a day off mode, a pre-heat mode where the heater is on, and a night lighting mode where the power source is on;
in which, for each sequence the controller is programmed to initiate, based on signals from the one or more timers, the light tower to switch from:
the day off mode to the pre-heat mode at a first predetermined time;
the pre-heat mode to the night lighting mode at a second predetermined time;
and the night lighting mode to the day off mode at a third predetermined time.
a base with ground engaging elements;
a mast secured to the base;
one or more lights mounted on the mast;
a power source connected to the one or more lights;
a heater connected to the power source;
one or more timers; and a controller connected to automatically cycle the power source and heater through one or more sequences according to a schedule, each sequence having a day off mode, a pre-heat mode where the heater is on, and a night lighting mode where the power source is on;
in which, for each sequence the controller is programmed to initiate, based on signals from the one or more timers, the light tower to switch from:
the day off mode to the pre-heat mode at a first predetermined time;
the pre-heat mode to the night lighting mode at a second predetermined time;
and the night lighting mode to the day off mode at a third predetermined time.
141. The light tower of claim 140 in which the power source is an engine.
142. The light tower of claim 140 in which the power source is an electric power source.
143. The light tower of any one of claim 140 - 142 in which the one or more timers further comprise a dual function timer for timing operation of the heater and the power source.
144. The light tower of any one of claim 140 - 143 in which each sequence is scheduled to be carried out over a 24-hour period.
145. The light tower of claim 144 in which the controller is configured to transition between i) the off mode, the pre-heat mode, and the lighting mode during a first transition period around sunset, and ii) the lighting mode and the off mode during a second transition period around sunrise.
146. The light tower of claim 145 in which, for each sequence, the first transition period and the second transition period are associated with a sunset time and a sunrise time, respectively, of a specific day of the year.
147. The light tower of any one of claim 140 - 146 in which the heater is adapted to initiate in an environment with an ambient temperature at or below minus forty degrees Celsius.
148. A method of operating a light tower using a controller connected to the light tower, the method comprising:
monitoring a time of day with one or more timers connected to send signals to the controller;
automatically cycling the light tower, using the controller, through a sequence, which includes the steps of:
at a first predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch from an off mode to a pre-heat mode where a heater supplies heat to a power source;
at a second predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch to a lighting mode where the power source supplies power to one or more lights mounted on the light tower; and at a third predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch to the off mode where power to the one or more lights is shut off.
monitoring a time of day with one or more timers connected to send signals to the controller;
automatically cycling the light tower, using the controller, through a sequence, which includes the steps of:
at a first predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch from an off mode to a pre-heat mode where a heater supplies heat to a power source;
at a second predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch to a lighting mode where the power source supplies power to one or more lights mounted on the light tower; and at a third predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch to the off mode where power to the one or more lights is shut off.
149. The method of claim 148 in which the power source is an engine.
150. The method of claim 148 in which the one or more timers comprise a dual function timer for timing operation of the heater and power source.
151. The method of any one of claim 148 - 150 in which the off mode is a day mode, and the lighting mode is a night mode.
152. The method of any one of claim 148 - 151 in which the sequence comprises a 24-hour sequence.
153. The method of claim 152 further comprising, cycling the light tower, using the controller, through a plurality of 24-hour sequences according to a schedule programmed into the controller.
154. The method of claim 153 in which for each 24-hour sequence:
the second predetermined time is programmed to occur around sunset; and the third predetermined time is programmed to occur around sunrise.
the second predetermined time is programmed to occur around sunset; and the third predetermined time is programmed to occur around sunrise.
155. The method of claim 154 in which, for each 24-hour sequence, the second predetermined time and the third predetermined time are programmed into the controller to be associated with a sunset time and a sunrise time, respectively, of a day of the year that the 24-hour sequence falls upon.
156. The method of any one of claim 148-155 carried out while the light tower is located in an environment with an ambient temperature of or below minus forty degrees Celsius.
157. A light tower comprising:
a base with ground engaging elements;
a mast secured to the base;
one or more lights mounted on the mast;
a power source connected to the one or more lights;
a heater connected to the power source;
an ambient-light level sensor; and a controller connected to automatically cycle, based on signals from the ambient-light level sensor, the power source and heater through one or more sequences according to a schedule, and based on signals from the ambient-light level sensor, each sequence having an off mode, a pre-heat mode where the heater is on, and a lighting mode where the power source is on.
a base with ground engaging elements;
a mast secured to the base;
one or more lights mounted on the mast;
a power source connected to the one or more lights;
a heater connected to the power source;
an ambient-light level sensor; and a controller connected to automatically cycle, based on signals from the ambient-light level sensor, the power source and heater through one or more sequences according to a schedule, and based on signals from the ambient-light level sensor, each sequence having an off mode, a pre-heat mode where the heater is on, and a lighting mode where the power source is on.
158. The light tower of claim 157, in which the power source is an engine.
159. The light tower of any one of claims 157 - 158 in which the off mode is a day mode, and the lighting mode is a night mode.
160. The light tower of claim 159 in which the controller is configured to transition between i) the off mode, the pre-heat mode, and the lighting mode during a first transition period around sunset, and ii) the lighting mode and the off mode during a second transition period around sunrise.
161. The light tower of claim 160 in which, for each sequence, the first transition period and the second transition period are associated with a sunset time and a sunrise time, respectively, of a specific day of the year.
162. The light tower of any one of claim 157 - 161 in which the heater is adapted to initiate in an environment with an ambient temperature at or below minus forty degrees Celsius.
163. The light tower of claim 162 in which the ambient-light level sensor comprises a photocell.
164. A method of automatically operating a light tower using a controller connected to the light tower, the method comprising:
monitoring a time of day with an ambient-light level sensor connected to send signals to the controller;
at a first predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch from an off mode to a pre-heat mode where a heater supplies heat to a power source;
at a second predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch to a lighting mode where the power source supplies power to one or more lights mounted on the light tower; and at a third predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch to the off mode where power to the one or more lights is shut off.
monitoring a time of day with an ambient-light level sensor connected to send signals to the controller;
at a first predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch from an off mode to a pre-heat mode where a heater supplies heat to a power source;
at a second predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch to a lighting mode where the power source supplies power to one or more lights mounted on the light tower; and at a third predetermined time, initiating, with control signals from the controller, the light tower to switch to the off mode where power to the one or more lights is shut off.
165. The method of claim 164, in which the power source is an engine.
166. The method of claim 165, in which the ambient-light level sensor comprises a photocell.
167. The method of claim 164 - 166 further comprising cycling the light tower, using the controller, through a 24-hour sequence, which includes the steps of:
at the first predetermined time, initiating the light tower to switch from the off mode to the pre-heat mode;
at the second predetermined time, initiating the light tower to switch to the lighting mode, and at the third predetermined time, initiating the light tower to switch to the off mode.
at the first predetermined time, initiating the light tower to switch from the off mode to the pre-heat mode;
at the second predetermined time, initiating the light tower to switch to the lighting mode, and at the third predetermined time, initiating the light tower to switch to the off mode.
168. The method of any one of claim 164 - 167 in which the off mode is a day mode, and the lighting mode is a night mode.
169. The method of claim 168 in which:
the second predetermined time is around sunset; and the third predetermined time is around sunrise.
the second predetermined time is around sunset; and the third predetermined time is around sunrise.
170. The method of claim 169 in which, for each 24-hour sequence, the second predetermined time, and the third predetermined time, are associated with a sunset time and a sunrise time, respectively, of a day of the year that the 24-hour sequence falls upon.
171. The method of any one of claim 164 - 170 carried out while the light tower is located in an environment with an ambient temperature of or below minus forty degrees Celsius.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2820968A CA2820968C (en) | 2013-07-16 | 2013-07-16 | Light tower with heater and automatic start/stop function, and related methods |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2820968A CA2820968C (en) | 2013-07-16 | 2013-07-16 | Light tower with heater and automatic start/stop function, and related methods |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2820968A1 CA2820968A1 (en) | 2013-09-27 |
| CA2820968C true CA2820968C (en) | 2016-09-06 |
Family
ID=49232738
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2820968A Active CA2820968C (en) | 2013-07-16 | 2013-07-16 | Light tower with heater and automatic start/stop function, and related methods |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2820968C (en) |
Families Citing this family (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CA2851391C (en) | 2012-10-09 | 2015-04-14 | Horizon Oilfield Solutions Inc. | Hybrid power source lighting and energy management system for operation in harsh and/or remote locations |
| US10794551B2 (en) * | 2017-07-31 | 2020-10-06 | Clark Equipment Company | Light system and method of powering the same |
-
2013
- 2013-07-16 CA CA2820968A patent/CA2820968C/en active Active
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2820968A1 (en) | 2013-09-27 |
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| US20130301253A1 (en) | Light tower and method | |
| RU2663192C2 (en) | Hybrid power source lighting and energy system for operation in harsh and/or remote locations | |
| CA2996473A1 (en) | Direct current hybrid lighting and energy management systems and methods | |
| CA2820968C (en) | Light tower with heater and automatic start/stop function, and related methods | |
| US20150276268A1 (en) | Pilot light control for an appliance | |
| US20130040471A1 (en) | Interposer for cobra head streetlight | |
| ES2047608T3 (en) | MOTOR CONTROLLER. | |
| US11493942B2 (en) | Systems and methods of creating certain water conditions in swimming pools or spas | |
| KR101569815B1 (en) | Dimming control apparatus for lamps as time schedule | |
| CN204005545U (en) | A kind of LED tunnel lamp of intelligent dimming | |
| JP2009013703A (en) | Snow melting method | |
| CN101023711A (en) | Structure image generation | |
| EP2676530A1 (en) | System and method for verifying the operation of lighting systems | |
| KR102191801B1 (en) | Control method of solar street light lamp | |
| US20190013959A1 (en) | Electronic controller for household energy control based on timing and tariff data | |
| CN112996381B (en) | Frost prevention device, frost prevention fan control device and frost prevention fan control method | |
| US20130094190A1 (en) | Led taper candle and wreath | |
| CN108884994A (en) | Atomising burner with variable flame rate | |
| KR101797604B1 (en) | Charge and discharge control method for renewable energy | |
| RU96615U1 (en) | CONTROL SYSTEM FOR STARTING ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT HEATING UNDER THE CONDITIONS OF LOW TEMPERATURES | |
| KR100665668B1 (en) | Integrated lighting control device using optical lens and semiconductor light emitting device | |
| WO2016122303A2 (en) | Apparatus for facilitating the operation and maintenance of lights or lighting circuits | |
| CN204026969U (en) | Storage type gas heater | |
| KR102356055B1 (en) | Integrated management system for solar street lights based on internet | |
| KR101468971B1 (en) | A generator actuated lighting equipment |
Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request |
Effective date: 20160210 |