Four-way power source for multifunction tool
A multi-power source is described that provides power through a single source—e.g. rechargeable batteries—whose charge is maintained through four or more different power sources. Examples of such power sources are taken from a group consisting of disposable batteries, mechanical energy as developed through a crank, solar power, an external DC source such as provided through a car battery connection, and an external AC input as from an in-wall outlet. The power source is used to power an emergency multifunction tool, such as a modular light source having a flashlight, lantern, siren, flasher, and radio functions powered from the multi-power source.
1. A portable, powered multifunction tool comprising:
a light source enclosed within a housing;
a local power source comprising a rechargeable battery or capacitor enclosed within the housing and configured to power the light source; and
at least three supplemental power source interfaces coupled to the rechargeable battery, including a DC power interface, an AC power interface, and an electro-mechanical interface, each of the at least three supplemental power source interfaces configured to recharge the rechargeable battery.
2. The portable, powered multifunction tool of claim 1 , further comprising a fourth supplemental power source interface coupled to the rechargeable battery including a dry cell battery enclosed within the housing configured to recharge the rechargeable battery.
3. The portable, powered multifunction tool of claim 2 , wherein the fourth supplemental power source interface is further configured to only pull power from the dry cell battery when the local power source is depleted.
4. The portable, powered multifunction tool of claim 1 , further comprising a fourth supplemental power source interface coupled to the rechargeable battery including solar cell disposed on the housing and configured to recharge the rechargeable battery.
5. The portable, powered multifunction tool of claim 1 , further including at least another multifunction tool coupled to the rechargeable battery taken from the group consisting of a lantern, a siren, a flasher, a radio, and a cell phone charger.
6. The portable, powered multifunction tool of claim 1 , further including a bypass circuit coupled to the supplemental power source interfaces for shunting power to the multifunction tool.
7. The portable, powered multifunction tool of claim 1 , wherein the local power source includes both a rechargeable battery and a capacitor, wherein the battery is interposed between the capacitor and the supplemental power source interfaces.