DESC:FIELD OF INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to lighting systems for military vehicles. Particularly, the present invention discloses an LED-based dome light system and method for providing two-stage intensity control in armored military vehicles.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Interior lighting systems in military vehicles, particularly armored vehicles like tanks and troop carriers, serve critical functions beyond basic illumination. These systems must operate reliably in extreme environments while meeting specialized operational requirements. Conventional interior lighting in armored vehicles has typically relied on incandescent bulbs or basic LED retrofits.
[0003] Incandescent lighting systems in armored vehicles present several challenges. They consume significant power, generate excessive heat, and have relatively short operational lifespans, especially in high-vibration environments. The glass enclosures and filaments of incandescent bulbs are prone to failure under the intense shock and vibration experienced in combat vehicles. Additionally, incandescent systems often lack adjustable brightness settings, limiting their utility across varied tactical situations.
[0004] Basic LED retrofit systems have addressed some issues with incandescent lighting, such as power consumption and durability. However, many LED systems still lack sophisticated controls for adjusting light output. This is problematic in tactical scenarios where precise control over interior illumination levels is needed. Furthermore, not all LED systems are designed to withstand the full range of environmental stresses present in armored vehicle applications, including extreme temperature variations, electromagnetic interference, and ballistic impacts.
[0005] Existing interior lighting solutions for armored vehicles also face challenges in terms of integration with vehicle electrical and control systems. Many lighting units require separate wiring and control interfaces, increasing complexity and potential points of failure. There is a need for lighting systems that seamlessly integrate with modern vehicle electronics while maintaining robustness against electromagnetic interference and other electrical disturbances common in military environments.
[0006] In a patent application US-8007155-B2, the invention discloses a composite lamp assembly for camouflaged military vehicles, featuring a housing with a clear lens and colored diffusers, and LEDs positioned to provide light through both the clear lens and diffusers. However, the invention does not specifically tackle the challenges of interior lighting in armored vehicles or provide adjustable intensity control for varying tactical situations.
[0007] In another patent application US-20240300406-A1, the invention discloses a unitary lighting device for vehicles, particularly school buses, with a housing containing a clear lens area and a printed circuit board assembly with LEDs capable of outputting multiple colors. The invention focuses on exterior lighting for civilian vehicles, however, the invention does not address the specific needs of interior lighting in military armored vehicles, such as durability in extreme conditions or integration with military-grade electronic systems.
[0008] To overcome the problems associated with the prior art, there may be a need for LED dome light systems for armored military vehicles that can provide adjustable light intensity, withstand extreme environmental conditions, and seamlessly integrate with military vehicle electronics while maintaining operational security.
OBJECTIVES OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The primary objective of the invention is to provide an LED dome light system with dual-intensity control specifically designed for use in armored military vehicles.
[0010] Another objective of the invention is to offer a lighting solution that can withstand extreme environmental conditions, including shock, vibration, and temperature variations commonly encountered in military operations.
[0011] Another objective of the invention is to integrate seamlessly with existing military vehicle electrical systems while maintaining electromagnetic compatibility with other onboard electronic equipment.
[0012] Another objective of the invention is to improve operational flexibility by allowing users to switch between low and high brightness modes to accommodate various tactical scenarios and visibility requirements.
[0013] Another objective of the invention is to enhance energy efficiency and reduce maintenance requirements compared to traditional incandescent lighting systems in armored vehicles.
[0014] Another objective of the invention is to ensure compliance with relevant military standards for environmental protection, electromagnetic interference, and durability in combat situations.
[0015] Another objective of the invention is to provide a compact and versatile lighting solution that can be easily installed in various locations within different types of armored vehicles.
[0016] Another objective of the invention is to improve crew safety and effectiveness by providing reliable, adjustable interior illumination across diverse mission profiles and environmental conditions.
[0017] Other objectives and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein, by way of illustration and example, the aspects of the present invention are disclosed.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0018] The present invention relates to a military-grade LED dome light system (100) with dual-stage intensity control for armored vehicles. The system comprises a housing (102) adapted for installation in armored vehicles, an LED light source (104) integrated within the housing (102), a driver circuit (106) integrated within the housing (102) for low and high LED drive modes, a user-operable switch (108) integrated within the housing (102) for user control, an electromagnetic interference shielding component configured to prevent interference with other electronic systems, and an anti-vibration mounting component configured to isolate internal components from mechanical shocks and vibrations. The system is compatible with 24VDC military electrical systems including surge and reverse polarity protection. The innovative lighting solution offers significant advantages over traditional incandescent or basic LED dome lights in armored vehicles, including improved durability, adjustable brightness for various operational needs, and compliance with military standards for electromagnetic interference and environmental stress. The invention has applications in a wide range of armored military vehicles, particularly in troop carriers, tanks, and combat vehicles, where reliable and adaptable interior lighting is crucial for mission success and crew comfort.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES
[0019] The present invention will be better understood after reading the following detailed description of the presently preferred aspects thereof with reference to the appended drawings, in which the features, other aspects and advantages of certain exemplary embodiments of the invention will be more apparent from the accompanying drawing in which:
[0020] Figure 1 illustrates a side orthogonal view of a dome light assembly for military vehicles.
[0021] Figure 2 depicts a bottom view of the dome light assembly of FIGURE 1, revealing internal components.
[0022] Common reference numerals are used throughout the figures to indicate similar features.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0023] The following detailed description and embodiments set forth herein below are merely exemplary out of the wide variety and arrangement of instructions which can be employed with the present invention. The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. All the features disclosed in this specification may be replaced by similar other or alternative features performing similar or same or equivalent purposes. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, they all are within the scope of the present invention.
[0024] Accordingly, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications of the embodiments described herein can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, descriptions of well-known functions and constructions are omitted for clarity and conciseness.
[0025] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to the bibliographical meanings but are merely used to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the invention. Accordingly, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of exemplary embodiments of the present invention are provided for illustration purpose only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention.
[0026] It is to be understood that the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0027] It should be emphasized that the term “comprises/comprising” when used in this specification is taken to specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, or components but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components, or groups thereof.
[0028] Accordingly, the present disclosure relates to an LED dome light system (100) with dual-intensity control designed for use in armored vehicles. The LED dome light system (100) comprises a housing (102) that withstands harsh environmental conditions, an LED light source (104) integrated within the housing (102), a driver circuit (106) integrated within the housing (102), a user-controlled switch (108) integrated within the housing (102) for toggling between low and high brightness modes, an electromagnetic interference shielding component, and an anti-vibration mounting component. The housing (102) is constructed from sheet metal with a diffusion glass lens to distribute light evenly throughout the vehicle interior. The lighting system is designed to be compatible with military electrical systems and incorporates various protective features against electrical and environmental hazards. The dome light is mounted on walls or roofs with concealed fasteners to accommodate different installation requirements within armored vehicles.
[0029] A primary advantage of the LED dome light system (100) is the ability to provide reliable, adjustable illumination for interior spaces of armored vehicles while maintaining compatibility with operational requirements. The dual-intensity functionality allows operators to select between low and high brightness modes, supporting both tactical operations requiring minimal light and maintenance tasks needing full illumination. The dome light system (100) is specifically engineered to withstand conditions including shock, vibration, and extreme temperatures encountered in military vehicles. The overall design takes into account specific requirements of military applications, including considerations for the electromagnetic interference shielding component, the anti-vibration mounting component, resistance to various environmental factors, and compliance with relevant military standards such as MIL-STD-810 and MIL-STD-461 for protection and durability. The versatile mounting options and robust construction ensure the dome light system (100) can be effectively utilized across a range of armored vehicle types and configurations while maintaining optimal performance in demanding operational scenarios.
[0030] As illustrated in figure 1 and figure 2, the LED light source (104) comprises high-brightness white LEDs mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB) for thermal efficiency. The PCB is designed for optimal thermal management to efficiently dissipate heat generated during operation. The PCB incorporates various thermal management features such as but not limited to copper planes, thermal vias, or other heat-dissipating structures to maintain optimal operating temperatures for the LEDs.
[0031] The anti-vibration mounting component secures the PCB within the housing (102). This anti-vibration mounting component incorporates vibration-dampening materials or structures to help isolate the PCB from mechanical shocks and vibrations commonly encountered in armored vehicle environments. The anti-vibration mounting component significantly reduces stress on electronic components and connections, thereby enhancing the overall reliability and operational life of the lighting system.
[0032] Thermal interface materials are applied between the PCB and the housing (102) to improve heat transfer and provide additional vibration damping. The materials conform to surface irregularities, ensuring efficient heat dissipation from the PCB to the housing (102) structure and further isolating the electronic components from mechanical stress. Adhesive thermal pads are used to improve shock resistance and thermal stability for mission-critical performance.
[0033] Protective coatings are applied to the PCB and electronic components to enhance environmental resistance. Such coatings, comprising conformal coating, provide protection against moisture, dust, chemicals, and other contaminants, further enhancing the durability and reliability of the LED light source (104) in harsh military environments.
[0034] The LED light source (104) is arranged in various configurations, including circular arrangements, to optimize light distribution and thermal management within the compact housing (102). The arrangement of LEDs promotes uniform illumination and facilitates efficient heat dissipation through the housing (102) structure.
[0035] The preferred embodiment utilizes high-brightness white LEDs in the LED light source (104), and is adapted to incorporate various LED types, colors, or combinations thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, RGB LEDs provide color-adjustable lighting, or combine white LEDs with infrared LEDs for night vision compatibility. The arrangement of LEDs on the PCB also varies, including linear, matrix, or custom patterns optimized for specific vehicle interiors or lighting requirements. In another implementation, additional features such as focused spot lighting or independently controllable lighting zones are incorporated to enhance functionality. The flexibility in LED selection and arrangement allows the dome light system (100) to be customized for different vehicle types or mission-specific requirements while maintaining the core benefits of durability, efficiency, and adjustable output.
[0036] The LED dome light system (100) incorporates the driver circuit (106) that enables intensity control for the LED light source (104). The driver circuit (106) is designed to provide distinct current levels to the LEDs, allowing for different brightness modes.
[0037] The driver circuit (106) utilizes current control mechanisms to regulate the LED current. In an exemplary mode, the driver circuit (106) supplies a reduced current of 10 mA in lower brightness mode. The lower current level results in decreased light output, suitable for low-light tactical operations or situations requiring minimal illumination.
[0038] For higher brightness modes, the driver circuit (106) increases the current supply. In an exemplary embodiment, the driver circuit (106) supplies approximately 20 mA, though other current levels are used depending on specific LED characteristics and illumination requirements. The higher current level produces increased light output, providing full visibility for maintenance tasks, emergency situations, or when maximum illumination is needed within the vehicle interior. The specific current levels for low and high modes are adjusted based on factors such as LED efficiency, desired brightness levels, and power consumption constraints.
[0039] The driver circuit (106) comprises components for current selection and regulation. The components comprise current-sensing elements, voltage regulators, and switching elements allowing for precise control of the LED current. The circuit design ensures stable current output in all operating modes, maintaining consistent light levels regardless of input voltage fluctuations within the specified operating range. The preferred embodiment may use a buck or linear current controller with integrated EMI suppression. To facilitate the intensity control functionality, the driver circuit (106) interfaces with the user-operable switch (108). On activating the switch, the circuit transitions between different current modes, adjusting the LED brightness accordingly. The switching mechanism is designed to be responsive and reliable, allowing for quick changes in illumination levels as required by vehicle operators.
[0040] The driver circuit (106) also comprises electromagnetic interference (EMI) filters to prevent interference with other electronic systems in the vehicle. The filters help to suppress high-frequency noise generated by the switching elements in the driver circuit (106), ensuring compliance with military EMI/EMC standards such as but not limited to MIL-STD-461. The LED dome light system (100) is designed to meet or exceed relevant military standards, including but not limited to MIL-STD-810 for environmental conditions and MIL-STD-461 for electromagnetic compatibility. Compliance with MIL-STD-810 is achieved through features such as the ruggedized housing (102), the anti-vibration mounting component, and environmental sealing, thereby allowing the system to withstand extreme temperatures, humidity, shock, and vibration. MIL-STD-461 compliance is addressed through the electromagnetic interference shielding component, filtered electrical connections, and careful circuit design to minimize electromagnetic emissions and susceptibility. The design considerations ensure the dome light system (100) operates reliably in diverse military environments without interfering with other critical vehicle systems.
[0041] The LED dome light system (100) incorporates the user-operable switch (108) for controlling the intensity levels. The user-operable switch (108) is designed to withstand the harsh conditions encountered in armored military vehicles while providing reliable and easy operation for vehicle occupants. The user-operable switch (108) is constructed using materials and components to meet military specifications for durability and performance. The materials comprise corrosion-resistant metals or high-strength polymers capable of withstanding extreme temperatures, humidity, and chemical exposure.
[0042] The user-operable switch (108) mechanism is designed to provide tactile feedback to the user, allowing for positive confirmation of activation even when wearing gloves or operating in low-visibility conditions. The user-operable switch (108) may utilize various designs, including toggle, push-button, or other tactile configurations, depending on the specific installation requirements and user preferences. To ensure longevity and reliability, the user-operable switch (108) incorporates sealing features to protect internal components from environmental contaminants. The sealing may include various protective elements to maintain the switch's integrity in challenging environments.
[0043] The user-operable switch (108) is positioned for easy access by vehicle occupants, typically mounted on or near the housing (102). The exact placement may vary depending on the vehicle's interior configuration and ergonomic considerations. The mounting location is chosen to balance accessibility with protection against accidental activation. The electrical contacts within the user-operable switch (108) are designed to handle the current requirements of the LED dome light system (100). The contacts are made from materials resistant to wear, ensuring consistent performance over numerous switching cycles. To prevent electromagnetic interference, the user-operable switch (108) may incorporate shielding and filtering components. These elements help to suppress electrical noise generated during switch operation, maintaining compliance with military EMI/EMC standards and preventing interference with other vehicle systems.
[0044] The user-operable switch (108) is designed to operate reliably across a wide range of temperatures, from extreme cold to high heat conditions. The temperature tolerance ensures consistent functionality in various climates and operational scenarios. Impact resistance is a key feature of the military-grade user-operable switch (108). The switch housing and internal components are engineered to withstand shocks and vibrations commonly experienced in armored vehicles, including those resulting from off-road travel or combat situations.
[0045] The user-operable switch (108) may incorporate features to prevent unintended activation, such as but not limited to recessed buttons or protective covers. These design elements help to maintain the desired lighting state during vehicle operations, particularly in tactical situations where unintended illumination could be problematic.
[0046] The LED dome light system (100) is designed to integrate with the electrical system of military vehicles. The dome light system (100) is compatible with a voltage range of approximately 18-30 V DC, aligning with the standard 24 V DC power systems commonly used in military vehicles. This voltage range ensures reliable operation even under fluctuating power conditions that occur during vehicle operation.
[0047] To protect the LED dome light system (100) and its components from potential electrical hazards, the system incorporates reverse polarity protection. This protection mechanism prevents damage to the dome light system (100) in case of accidental reversal of the power supply connections during installation or maintenance. The reverse polarity protection may be implemented using various circuit configurations that block current flow when the polarity is reversed.
[0048] Surge protection is also integrated into the LED dome light system's (100) electrical system. This feature safeguards the electronic components from voltage spikes or transients that may occur in the vehicle's electrical network. The surge protection circuitry may comprise various components to rapidly respond to overvoltage events by diverting excess current away from the protected circuits.
[0049] The electrical connections for power input and control signals are designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions present in military vehicles. The connections utilize ruggedized connectors or terminal blocks that provide secure and reliable electrical contact while resisting vibration, shock, and corrosion. To maintain electromagnetic compatibility with other vehicle systems, the LED dome light system's (100) electrical interface includes EMI filtering. This filtering helps to suppress high-frequency noise generated by the dome light system's (100) internal circuitry, preventing interference with sensitive communication or navigation equipment in the vehicle.
[0050] The power supply circuitry within the LED dome light system (100) may incorporate voltage regulation to ensure stable operation across the input voltage range. This regulation helps to maintain consistent light output regardless of fluctuations in the vehicle's power system.
[0051] The LED dome light system (100) incorporates environmental protection features to ensure reliable operation in the harsh conditions encountered in armored military vehicles. These features comprise sealing mechanisms, the anti-vibration mounting component, and the electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding component.
[0052] A rubber gasket sealing system is implemented to protect the internal components of the LED dome light system (100) from environmental contaminants. The sealing is positioned between the housing (102) and the diffusion lens, creating a barrier to prevent the ingress of moisture, dust, and other particles. The sealing mechanism also helps to maintain the integrity of the internal electronics and optical components, ensuring consistent performance in various environmental conditions and providing IP-rated protection.
[0053] The LED dome light system (100) utilizes the anti-vibration mounting component to mitigate the effects of shock and vibration commonly experienced in military vehicles. The anti-vibration mounting component incorporates specialized mounting points and vibration-dampening materials. These elements work together to isolate the internal components from mechanical stresses, reducing the risk of damage to sensitive electronic parts and maintaining the alignment of optical components.
[0054] The electromagnetic interference shielding component is integrated into the design of the LED dome light system (100) to prevent electromagnetic interference with other electronic systems in the vehicle. The housing (102) serves as a primary EMI shield, blocking external electromagnetic radiation from affecting the internal circuitry. Additionally, the electromagnetic interference shielding component may incorporate specialized coatings or materials to enhance the EMI shielding properties. Internal components, such as the driver circuit (106), are also designed with EMI considerations, including the use of shielded cables and filtered connections where necessary.
[0055] The combination of all the environmental protection features ensures that the LED dome light system (100) can withstand the rigorous conditions present in armored military vehicles, including exposure to extreme temperatures, humidity, shock, vibration, and electromagnetic interference. The protective measures contribute to the overall durability and reliability of the lighting system in demanding operational environments and ensure compliance with relevant military standards, including MIL-STD-810 for environmental conditions and MIL-STD-461 for electromagnetic compatibility. The LED dome light system (100) operates to provide adjustable lighting in armored vehicles through the coordinated interaction of its components. The system utilizes the LED light source (104) comprising high-brightness white LEDs mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB) within the housing (102). The LEDs are arranged in various configurations to optimize light distribution within the vehicle interior.
[0056] The LED light source (104) is designed with an optimized beam angle to ensure efficient light spread throughout the cabin space. The beam angle is selected to balance between wide coverage and focused illumination, taking into account the typical dimensions and layout of armored vehicle interiors. The optimized beam angle helps to minimize shadows and dark spots, enhancing visibility for vehicle occupants.
[0057] A diffusion glass lens is incorporated into the dome light assembly to further improve the uniformity of cabin illumination. The lens is positioned in front of the LED light source (104) and serves to scatter and soften the light output. The diffusion lens helps to eliminate harsh glare and hotspots that may be produced by the high-brightness LEDs. By dispersing the light evenly, the diffusion lens creates a more comfortable and functional lighting environment within the vehicle.
[0058] The user-operable switch (108) allows vehicle occupants to toggle between the intensity modes. Upon activation, the user-operable switch (108) signals the driver circuit (106) to adjust the current supply to the LED light source (104), thereby changing the light output. The user-operable switch (108) is designed for ease of use, even in challenging conditions such as when wearing gloves or operating in low visibility environments.
[0059] The entire system is powered by the vehicle's electrical system, typically integrated into the vehicle's 24 V cabin power rail. The dome light system's (100) power supply circuitry includes voltage regulation to ensure stable operation across the vehicle's voltage range. This regulation helps to maintain consistent light output regardless of fluctuations in the vehicle's power supply.
[0060] Environmental protection features, including rubber gasket sealing and the anti-vibration mounting component, work in concert to shield the internal components from the harsh conditions encountered in armored vehicles. These protective measures ensure that the dome light system (100) operates reliably in various environmental conditions, comprising exposure to dust, moisture, and mechanical shocks.
[0061] The system's electromagnetic interference shielding component and filtering components prevent electromagnetic interference between the dome light system (100) and other critical vehicle systems. This shielding allows the lighting system to function without disrupting sensitive communication or navigation equipment within the vehicle.
[0062] Through the integration of these components and features, the LED dome light system (100) provides adaptable, reliable illumination for armored vehicle interiors. The system's intensity control, optimized light distribution, and rugged design make it suitable for a wide range of military operations and environments. The light is best installed in command/control compartments, troop bays, or maintenance hatches of tanks, troop carriers, and other combat vehicles, secured with vibration-resistant mounts on the ceiling or bulkhead.
[0063] The LED dome light system (100) for armored military vehicles offers several advantages:
• The present invention provides dual-intensity control that allows for adaptable illumination, supporting both low-light tactical operations and full-visibility tasks.
• The present invention provides ruggedized construction that withstands harsh military environments, including shock, vibration, and extreme temperatures.
• The present invention provides optimized LED beam angle and diffusion lens to provide uniform cabin illumination, reducing glare and shadows.
• The present invention provides compatibility with 24VDC military electrical systems ensuring seamless integration with existing vehicle power infrastructure.
• The present invention provides incorporation of surge protection and reverse polarity safeguards to prevent damage from electrical system fluctuations.
• The present invention provides EMI shielding and filtering that maintain electromagnetic compatibility with other critical vehicle systems.
• The present invention provides low power consumption and heat generation compared to traditional incandescent lighting solutions.
• The present invention provides extended operational life due to the use of solid-state LED technology and robust environmental protection features.
• The present invention provides compact design allowing for flexible mounting options in various vehicle interior configurations.
• The present invention provides a military-grade switch enabling easy operation even on wearing gloves or in low-visibility conditions.
• The present invention provides a sealed housing with IP-rated protection guarding against dust, moisture, and other environmental contaminants.
• The present invention provides compliance with relevant military standards, including MIL-STD-810 and MIL-STD-461, ensuring suitability for diverse operational scenarios.
• The present invention provides enhanced reliability and reduced maintenance requirements compared to conventional vehicle lighting systems.
• The present invention improves safety through consistent and adjustable illumination in vehicle interiors during various mission profiles.
[0064] Features of any of the examples or embodiments outlined above may be combined to create additional examples or embodiments without losing the intended effect. It should be understood that the description of an embodiment or example provided above is by way of example only, and various modifications could be made by one skilled in the art. Furthermore, one skilled in the art will recognise that numerous further modifications and combinations of various aspects are possible. Accordingly, the described aspects are intended to encompass all such alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the scope of the appended claims. ,CLAIMS:WE CLAIM:
1. An LED dome light system (100) with dual-intensity control for armored vehicles, comprising:
• a housing (102) configured to protect internal components and is adapted for installation in armored vehicles;
• an LED light source (104) integrated within the housing (102);
• a driver circuit (106) integrated within the housing (102) and connected to the LED light source (104) and configured to supply different current levels to the LED light source (104) to provide at least two different light intensity levels;
• a user-operable switch (108) integrated within the housing (102) and connected to the driver circuit (106) and configured to control the driver circuit (106) to switch between the different light intensity levels;
wherein,
• the housing (102) comprises military-grade construction with electromagnetic interference shielding configured to prevent interference with other electronic systems;
• the housing (102) further comprises anti-vibration mounting configured to isolate internal components from mechanical shocks and vibrations;
• the system (100) includes environmental protection features comprising rubber gasket sealing configured to prevent ingress of moisture and dust;
• the driver circuit (106) includes surge protection and reverse polarity protection configured to operate within a voltage range of 18-30 V DC; and
• the user-operable switch (108) is a military-grade switch configured to provide tactile feedback and withstand extreme environmental conditions including shock, vibration, and temperature variations.
2. The LED dome light system (100) as mentioned in claim 1, wherein the driver circuit (106) is configured to supply a current of 10 mA in a low brightness mode and a current of 20 mA in a high brightness mode.
3. The LED dome light system (100) as mentioned in claim 1, wherein the LED light source (104) comprises high-brightness white LEDs mounted on a printed circuit board, and wherein the printed circuit board includes thermal management features configured to dissipate heat generated during operation.
4. The LED dome light system (100) as mentioned in claim 1, wherein the user-operable switch (108) is a military-grade switch configured to provide tactile feedback and to withstand extreme environmental conditions.
5. The LED dome light system (100) as mentioned in claim 1, wherein the housing (102) includes electromagnetic interference shielding and anti-vibration mounting configured to isolate internal components from mechanical shocks and vibrations.
6. The LED dome light system (100) as mentioned in claim 1, wherein the driver circuit (106) is configured to operate within a voltage range of 18-30 V DC and includes surge protection and reverse polarity protection.
7. The LED dome light system (100) as mentioned in claim 1, further comprising a diffusion glass lens positioned to distribute light from the LED light source (104), wherein the LED light source (104) has an optimized beam angle configured to provide uniform illumination.
8. The LED dome light system (100) as mentioned in claim 1, wherein the housing (102) includes a rubber gasket sealing system configured to prevent ingress of moisture and dust.
9. A method of providing dual-intensity illumination comprising:
• supplying different current levels to an LED light source (104) to provide different light intensity levels;
• receiving user input to select between the different light intensity levels; and
• switching between the different current levels in response to the user input.
10. The method as claimed in claim 9, wherein the supplying comprises switching between a current level of 10 mA and a current level of 20 mA.