Docket No.12403/012482-WO0 AUTOMATICALLY ILLUMINATED BOX Cross Reference To Related Applications [0001] The present application claims priority to and the benefit of US patent application No. 63/572,053, filed March 29, 2024, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Field of the Disclosure [0002] The present disclosure relates generally to storage containers with integrated illumination, and more particularly, to item boxes, such as jewelry boxes, equipped with an automatic lighting system. Background of the Disclosure [0003] Display boxes serve the dual purpose of protecting valuable items and providing a centralized location for storing them. While the traditional jewelry box has been successful in fulfilling these functions, it often lacks the capability of enabling users to view and select items in low-light conditions. This limitation can create a cumbersome experience, as users may have to resort to additional lighting sources to search for specific pieces of jewelry, which can be inconvenient and time-consuming. [0004] Some modern display boxes have incorporated lighting mechanisms to address this issue, usually involving mechanical switches that activate the light when the box is opened. However, such systems tend to be inefficient as the light remains on for the entire duration the box is open, which can lead to unnecessary energy waste or rapid light bulb wear, leading to the need for replacement of burnt bulbs. This is particularly disadvantageous when the user only requires the light for a brief period to locate an item, but leaves the box open for extended periods, either intentionally or due to forgetfulness. [0005] The problem is further compounded in larger jewelry boxes or armoires where the internal spaces may be segmented. Even with integrated lighting, shadowed corners and compartments can still remain inadequately illuminated. Consequently, there is a clear need for a more sophisticated lighting solution in jewelry boxes that can address energy waste and ensure even illumination across all compartments. [0006] Continuous lighting not only results in inefficient energy consumption but can also decrease the lifespan of the lighting components themselves. Moreover, in the case of battery- operated jewelry boxes, this can lead to frequent battery replacements, which is both ^
Docket No.12403/012482-WO0 ^ environmentally unfriendly and costly for the user. Therefore, a lighting mechanism that minimizes energy usage while providing adequate illumination serves an essential purpose. [0007] To tackle these inefficiencies, there is a demand for an automated solution that delivers targeted illumination precisely when and where it is needed, avoiding the pitfalls of continuous light exposure. Such a solution would ideally sense user interaction and/or external motion of passerby. Such a solution may also provide light assistance or illumination based on proximity of a user. The need for an automatic, intelligent light-up solution is evident, and innovations in this field would address both the practical and environmental concerns arising from the limitations of current jewelry boxes. Summary of the Disclosure [0008] According to the present disclosure, a valuable item display box, such as a jewelry box, is provided. In one particular configuration, this valuable item box is equipped with one or more devices or apparatus that cause the interior of the item box to be illuminated based on the proximity of an individual. Here, the individual can be a passer-by or a person interested in evaluating the contents of the valuable item box. [0009] For ease of explanation, and in no way limiting, the valuable item box is herein referred to as a jewelry box. However, a person possessing an ordinary level of skill in the requisite art would appreciate that other items besides jewelry can be placed within its confines. For example, watches, pendants, collectables, artifacts, or other articles can be placed within the confines of the described jewelry box without altering the performance or operation of the various elements described herein. [0010] In one embodiment, a jewelry box comprises a light sensing circuit. The light sensing circuit includes a photoresistor and an operational amplifier. These components are configured as a comparator to sense the light level of the environment surrounding the box. The photoresistor changes resistance in response to light striking its surface. [0011] The operational amplifier compares a light-induced voltage level with a threshold voltage to control an LED. Additionally, there is a motion sensing circuit. This circuit includes a microcontroller and an accelerometer. The microcontroller reads information from the accelerometer to detect movement of the jewelry box and controls the LED based on the detected movement. A power source energizes the circuits when the jewelry box is open. The LED is activated when the box is opened and remains activated based on the sensed light level and detected movement.
Docket No.12403/012482-WO0 ^ [0012] Furthermore, a jewelry box circuit for motion-activated lighting is disclosed. This motion-activated lighting circuit comprises a microcontroller and one or more motion sensors configured to respond to movement relative to the jewelry box. For example, the one or more sensors is an ultrasonic or infrared range finder. The microcontroller is configured to control lighting based on data from the one or more motion sensors. [0013] In one or more implementations of the jewelry box, the light sensing circuit further comprises a voltage divider. This includes resistors to create a threshold voltage for the operational amplifier. In some variations of the jewelry box, the motion sensing circuit’s microcontroller polls the accelerometer at regular intervals to detect movement. In some variations of the jewelry box, the motion sensing circuit deactivates the LED if no movement is detected for a predetermined amount of time. In some variations of the jewelry box, the photoresistor’s resistance decreases as the light intensity on its surface increases. This facilitates a proportional voltage change that controls the LED’s operation. In some variations, the jewelry box also includes a mechanical switch. This disconnects power to the device when the box lid is closed and connects power when the box lid is open. [0014] In some variations of the jewelry box, the operational amplifier provides current to the LED when the light-level voltage exceeds the threshold voltage. In some variations of the jewelry box, the accelerometer provides data to the microcontroller indicative of the jewelry box’s movement, influencing the LED’s state. In one or more implementations, the power source is a coin cell battery that supplies a voltage compatible with the microcontroller and accelerometer. In some variations of the jewelry box, the motion sensing circuit includes power supply bypass capacitors to smooth power delivery to the microcontroller and accelerometer. [0015] In various implementations, an electronic light sensing circuit further comprises a mechanical switch. This switch is configured to disconnect power to the circuit when a jewelry box housing the circuit is closed. In various implementations of the electronic light sensing circuit, the photoresistor has a resistance range of approximately 10k Ohm in darkness to a minimum of 1k Ohm when illuminated. [0016] Furthermore, a jewelry box circuit for motion-activated lighting is disclosed. This motion-activated lighting circuit comprises a microcontroller and an accelerometer. The microcontroller is configured to control lighting based on data from the accelerometer. The accelerometer detects motion of the jewelry box. Additionally, there’s a normally closed mechanical switch configured to disconnect power when the box is closed. An LED controlled by the microcontroller is illuminated based on accelerometer data indicating motion.
Docket No.12403/012482-WO0 ^ Brief Description of the Drawings [0017] The foregoing and other objects and advantages of the present disclosure will become more apparent when considered in connection with the following detailed description and appended drawings in which like designations denote like elements in the various views, and wherein: [0018] FIG.1 is an illustration of a housing for a jewelry box light control device according to one embodiment of the presently described item box. [0019] FIG.2 is an example circuit for a jewelry box light control device which incorporates a photoresistor for ambient light-activated lighting. [0020] FIG. 3 is an example jewelry box circuit incorporating a microcontroller and an accelerometer for motion-activated lighting. [0021] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram for mechanical switch-activated lighting consistent with one or more examples provided in the present disclosure. [0022] FIG.5 is an example of a circuit for an item box which incorporates one or more motion sensors. Detailed Description of the Disclosure [0023] Valuable item containers, such as jewelry boxes, play a pivotal role in safeguarding precious items while offering a centralized storage solution. Furthermore, item boxes, not just jewelry boxes, allow for the contents to be displayed, either in a store, or at home. However, conventional jewelry boxes, either in a commercial setting or at home, often lack adequate lighting, making it challenging to appreciate the skill and craftsmanship that goes into producing such articles. Modern attempts to address this issue with lighting mechanisms that are inefficient, typically employing continuous lighting upon box opening. This approach leads to unnecessary energy consumption and rapid bulb wear, especially when the box remains open for extended periods. [0024] Continuous lighting not only wastes energy but also shortens the lifespan of lighting components, necessitating frequent replacements, particularly in battery-operated boxes. Consequently, there’s a demand for an automated lighting solution that conserves energy while providing targeted illumination precisely where and when needed. The approach described herein provides a storage solution that enhances the visibility of the contents of the item box by sensing the presence of potential users or viewers and adjusting lighting accordingly, mitigating the drawbacks of continuous lighting exposure.
Docket No.12403/012482-WO0 ^ [0025] In response to these inefficiencies, the present disclosure incorporates components, either configured as a single integrated circuit, or through a collection of various circuits integrated within item boxes, such as jewelry boxes, to address the shortcomings of existing solutions. These approaches include the use of one or more light sensing mechanisms utilizing photoresistors and/or other devices, such as but not limited to operational amplifiers, to detect the presence or absence of a viewer or passer-by. Based on this detection, the described circuits are configured to cause one or more light emitting devices (such as but not limited to LEDs) to activate, thereby illuminating the interior of the item or jewelry box. [0026] In a further arrangement, as detailed more specifically herein, the described circuits include a motion sensing circuit comprising a microcontroller and an accelerometer. In embodiments, these components work in tandem to activate the LED lighting based on both ambient light levels and detected movements of the item box. In one or more configurations, a jewelry box circuit for motion-activated lighting is disclosed. This motion-activated lighting circuit comprises a microcontroller and one or more motion sensors configured to movement relative to the jewelry box. For example, the one or more sensors is an ultrasonic or infrared range finder. The microcontroller is configured to control lighting based on data from the one or more motion sensors. [0027] Furthermore, the present disclosure introduces an electronic light sensing circuit tailored specifically for item box, such as a jewelry box, applications. Various embodiments of the disclosed design also incorporate a mechanical switch for power management and precise control over lighting conditions. Such innovations aim to provide efficient and targeted illumination while minimizing energy consumption and enhancing user convenience. [0028] Moreover, the present disclosure extends to a motion-activated lighting circuit designed to further optimize energy usage and user experience. This circuit integrates a microcontroller and an accelerometer to detect box movements, or the movements of individuals in proximity to the box, and adjust LED illumination accordingly. Programmable features enable customization according to user preferences. Overall, the present disclosure represents a significant advancement in item box lighting technology, offering an intelligent and energy-efficient solution to address both practical and environmental concerns. [0029] FIG.1 provides an illustration of one embodiment of the item box described. As shown, the item box includes a housing 100. In one or more implementations, the item box has a top lid 102, a bottom 104, and an internal compartment 106 disposed within the bottom 104. In some implementations, the internal compartment 106 is designed to hold jewelry or other small objects. In the illustrated embodiment, the item box 100 includes a lid portion and a base portion. Here, the
Docket No.12403/012482-WO0 ^ lid portion is connected to the base portion by a hinge or other device that allows the lid to be repositioned relative to the base potion. [0030] As further shown in FIG.1, the item box includes a light 110. In one embodiment, the light 110 is a LED (light emitting diode). However, in alternative embodiments, the light 110 is an incandescent bulb, LCD panel, or other controllable lighting element. In one or more embodiments, the light 110 is configured to illuminate the internal compartment 106. [0031] In one or more further embodiment, the item box 100 has at least one sensor 130 that is configured to detect ambient light levels. An internal circuit or combination of circuits, not depicted in FIG. 1 but detailed below, control the power provided to the LED 110 and the resulting illumination in response to the detection of ambient light. The sensor 130, upon detecting light as detailed further below, is electrically configured to enable current to flow to the LED 110, which results in the projection of light onto the item in response to the detection of light. [0032] For example, and in no way limiting, when the lid 102 is raised relative to the body 104, ambient light from the external environment is able to reach the one or more ambient light sensors. Thus, when the lid of the box is opened, the light 110 automatically activates, illuminating the item placed within the internal compartment. [0033] In some implementations, to enhance the interactivity and responsiveness of the item box, additional motion-sensing devices are incorporated. For example, a tilt sensor, such as a tilt- ball switch, can be integrated to detect the orientation of the box, providing another layer of interaction by turning on the light when the box is tilted at a certain angle, indicative of it being presented or viewed. In some implementations, the tilt sensor is a vibration/tilt induction switch. In some implementations, the tilt sensor is one or more of the following: SMD Vibration/Tilt Induction Switch X8, X23, X24, X26, X160, X200, and X3228. In one or more implementations, the tilt sensor is a normally closed or open microsensor. In one or more implementations, there is more than one tilt sensor. For example, two of the same tilt sensors can be used, or two different tilt sensors can be used.. In some implementations, the tilt sensor is also a switch for turning the circuit it is connect to on or off by opening the circuit when tilting is detected. In some implementations, at least one tilt sensor is configured to detect tilting of the item box relative to a position of the base. In some implementations, the item box further comprises a processor, configured to receive one or more signals from the at least one tilt sensor, and activate or deactivate a light source based on the one or more received signals from the at least one tilt sensor. [0034] To determine the presence or absence of a person or a potential viewer, in some implementations an infrared (IR) beam, in addition to or in conjunction with an IR sensor, is
Docket No.12403/012482-WO0 ^ employed as part of the system’s sensing capabilities. Alternatively, an ultrasonic transducer and receiver can be employed as part of the system’s sensing capabilities. In one or more implementations, the sensing function(s) of the item box includes an ambient light detector, such as but not limited to a photoresistor, used to discern daytime conditions, which generally correlate to store operating hours and the presence of light. Upon detecting sufficient ambient light, indicating potential store activity, the box activates the IR beam, which may be electrically coupled to a standalone IR sensor or integrated within an IR sensor component, as a secondary confirmation of a person’s presence. In such implementations, if the IR beam is scattered, signifying someone is near, the light within the box is turned on. This series of checks ensures that only when either or both proper ambient conditions and immediate presence are detected will the box activate its lighting system. Furthermore, such a configuration allows to conserve energy by not continuously activating the IR or ultrasonic sensors. [0035] In yet further implementations, once activated, the item box lighting system deactivates other sensing systems temporarily—this can take the form of a power-saving feature that ensures an internal plurality of sensors and circuitry work in harmony and only when. After detection of motion in proximity to the item box (such as through an IR sensor) and subsequent illumination, for example, the ambient light sensor, the motion sensor (here a proximity sensor), and other related systems enter a low-power state for a pre-determined duration, such as five minutes. Such a feature may be preprogrammed as a timing feature in a microcontroller electrically connected to the item box’s internal circuit(s). [0036] FIG. 2 is an example circuit 200 for an item box 100 light control device which incorporates a photoresistor 230. In one or more embodiments, a circuit such as circuit 200 is housed within the item box 100. [0037] There are different devices available with which to detect light levels that may be used in applications consistent with the present disclosure. Some examples are photoresistors, photodiodes, and phototransistors—any of these or a combination thereof could be used in implementations consistent with the present disclosure. Also available are compound devices which integrate, say, a photoresistor with a transistor in one convenient package, and such devices may also be used in implementations consistent with the present disclosure. The variation in FIG. 2 utilizes a commodity photoresistor 230 and an operational amplifier 250 (configured as a comparator) to sense the light level of an environment around the item box 100. [0038] In various implementations, devices such as infrared sensors or ultrasonic sensors may be used in conjunction with or in place of photoresistors, photodiodes, or phototransistors to detect
Docket No.12403/012482-WO0 ^ external motion or light fluctuations. An infrared sensor (IR sensor) is a radiation-sensitive optoelectronic component with a spectral sensitivity in the infrared wavelength range 780 nm to 50 µm. IR sensors are widely used in motion detectors and may be incorporated in various embodiments consistent with the present disclosure. Within a defined angle range, the sensor elements detect the heat radiation (infrared radiation) that changes over time and space due to the movement of people or objects. Likewise, ultrasonic sensors generate sound waves in ultrasonic frequencies and use those sound waves to detect the presence of an object in proximity to the sensor transducer. [0039] In one or more embodiments, when the box lid 102 is closed, power to the item box light control device is disconnected. When the box lid 102 is open, a mechanical switch 220 is actuated and the circuit 200 is energized by a battery 240. The photoresistor 230 changes resistance in ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^230 decreases as more light strikes its sensing surface. Resistor R1 (260) is used in conjunction with the photoresistor 230 to translate the photoresistor’s resistance change into a voltage which changes proportionally to that resistance. In effect, the light level is converted into a voltage level which is presented to the positive input terminal of the op amp 250. Resistors R2 (262) and R3 (264) create a voltage divider, dividing the battery 240 voltage down into a threshold voltage. The op amp 250 compares the light-level voltage at the positive terminal of Op Amp 250 with the threshold voltage passed from the voltage divider into the negative input terminal of the Op Amp 250^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ (the light-level voltage) is above the latter (the threshold voltage), current is provided by the op amp 250 output to the LED 110. Resistor R4 (266) is a current-limiting resistor used to protect the LED 110 from overcurrent conditions. [0040] Some non-limiting example theoretical values of the various components in FIG.2 are provided. Photoresistors such as the photoresistor 230 are available with different resistance ranges. One photoresistor has a range of approximately 10k Ohm when dark to 1k Ohm minimum when illuminated. With resistor R1 (260) specified at 50k Ohm and a battery, such as the battery 240, providing 3.0 Volts, the light level is converted to a voltage between 2.5 and 2.941 volts. Setting R2 (262) to 10k Ohm and R3 (264) to 100k Ohm creates a voltage reference 2.727 volts for the op amp 250 configured as a comparator. Then, the LED 110 will be driven with current when the photoresistor 230 is receiving sufficient light to cause its resistance to be halfway in its specified range. [0041] FIG. 3 is an example item box circuit 300 incorporating a microcontroller 390 and an accelerometer 380 to enable motion-activated lighting. Specifically, FIG.3 depicts an example item box circuit 300 wherein a microcontroller 390 is used to read information from an accelerometer
Docket No.12403/012482-WO0 ^ 380. In one or more implementations, the microcontroller 380 is a Microchip PIC10F206 microcontroller. This product, or a microcontroller 380 of a different brand and with similar but varied design features and performance parameters, is used to read information from an accelerometer 390, which in at least one implementation is an NXP FXLS8471 accelerometer, but which can be any number of other commercially available accelerometers with similar but varied design features and performance parameters. The microcontroller 380 and the accelerometer 390 cooperate to decide if the LED light 110 should be turned off. [0042] When the item box lid 102 is closed a normally closed mechanical switch 220 ^^^^^^^^^^^^^ the switch 220 is thus open and no power is delivered to the circuit 300. When the box lid 102 is open, the switch 220 ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ the circuit 300. [0043] When powered, the microcontroller 390 turns the LED 110 on and then continuously polls the accelerometer 380 at regular (programmable) intervals (say, once per second) to determine the amount of movement the item box 100 has undergone. A program in the microcontroller 390 is configured to decide if the movement is sufficient to indicate that the box 100 is being manipulated by a user and, thus, the LED 110 should remain on to continue illuminating the contents of the box. If the box 100 is undergoing motion, the LED 110 ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^100 is not undergoing motion (for some programmable amount of time) then the light 110 is deactivated until motion is again detected. [0044] Capacitors C1 (370), C2 (372), and C3 (374) are power supply bypass capacitors used to smooth power delivery to the microcontroller 390 and accelerometer 380 as they operate. Capacitor C4 (376) is used by the accelerometer (380) for its internal voltage regulation. Resistor R1 (360) is a current-limiting resistor used to protect the LED 110 from overcurrent conditions. [0045] The Microchip PIC10F206 microcontroller 390 is chosen for this example for its low power consumption, programmability, and its special output pin capable of sourcing enough current to drive an LED such as LED 110. However, other commercially available microcontrollers with similar but varied design features and performance parameters may be used in various implementations. [0046] The NXP FXLS8471 accelerometer 380 was chosen for this non-limiting example for its input voltage specification of 1.91 to 3.6 volts, compatible with the common coin cell battery such as battery 340 which supplies a voltage of 3.0 volts. However, other commercially available accelerometers with similar but varied design features and performance parameters may be used in various implementations.
Docket No.12403/012482-WO0 ^ [0047] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram 400 for mechanical switch-activated item box lighting consistent with the present disclosure. The flowchart 400 shows an item box lighting device which, according to one or more implementations consistent with the present disclosure, can incorporate one or both of circuits 200 and 300 as detailed above. [0048] The flowchart 400 starts at Mechanical Switching element 220, wherein an item box such as item box 100 is opened. Element 220 represents the mechanical switch (e.g., switch 220) that is actuated based on the state of the item box lid 102 (open/closed). If the lid 102 is closed, the switch 220 remains in its normally closed position, and no power is delivered to the combinatory circuit. If the lid 102 is open, the switch 220 allows power to be delivered to the circuit. [0049] The Control element 430 encompasses the control mechanisms of the lighting system. Within this element, there are two potential pathways. One or a combination of control circuits may be incorporated within this element. Two such examples are the light-sensitive circuit 200 and the motion-sensitive circuit 300. [0050] In one or more embodiments, the item box contains a photoresistor circuit, as depicted in FIG.2 (e.g., photoresistor 230), the box is capable of reacting to light detection and illuminating the box contents as a result. When the box lid 102 is open, and the switch 220 allows power to the circuit 200, then the photoresistor circuit 200 activates an LED light inside the box such as LED 110. The photoresistor 230 senses the light level, and the operational amplifier 250 (configured as a comparator) compares it with a threshold voltage. If the light level is above the threshold, current is provided to the LED 110, illuminating it. [0051] Where an embodiment of the disclosed the item box contains an accelerometer/motion- sensing circuit, as depicted in FIG. 3, which includes a microcontroller 390 (e.g., Microchip PIC10F206) and an accelerometer 380 (e.g., NXP FXLS8471), then it is capable of motion- activated lighting resulting in illuminating the contents of the item box upon detection of movement of the box. In such implementations, when the box lid 102 is open, and the switch 220 allows power to the circuit 300, the microcontroller 390 activates. It continuously polls the accelerometer 380 to detect motion. If motion is detected, the LED 110 remains on for a programmable amount of time to illuminate the contents of the box. If no motion is detected within a prespecified programmable amount of time, the LED 110 is deactivated until motion is detected again. [0052] In some embodiments consistent with the present disclosure, control element 430 may include both a light-activated circuit 200 and a motion-activated circuit 300. In such embodiments, the box is capable of illuminating internal contents through both the detection of light and the detection of movement. In such embodiments, in either light detection or movement detection, the
Docket No.12403/012482-WO0 ^ flow chart proceeds to the LED 110 element, indicating that the internal compartment 106 of the box is illuminated while the flowchart proceeds back to the power element 440. [0053] Power element 440 is a representation of whether or not conditions sufficient to illuminate the box are present, including whether the mechanical switch 220 is actuated, and whether a control element 430 condition (such as detection of light, or detection of movement, or detection of either light or movement in combinatory implementations) is present, such that LED 110 is illuminated. Power element 440 represents the power source (e.g., battery 240 or battery 340) that supplies power to the item box’s internal circuitry. When the box lid 102 is open and the switch 220 allows power, the power source delivers power to the circuit, enabling its operation. [0054] In one or more further implementations, additional power or control circuits are provided. For example, one or more dc-dc converter circuits are provided between the control circuits and the power supply. Such circuits can be used isolate the power supply, such as a standard coin cell, from being directly subjected to large load pulse currents needed to activate the LED. Such circuits can result in longer, more predictable battery lifespan. In another configuration, a very low voltage driven oscillator circuit is provided. Here, such circuits are capable of reliably functioning at low input voltages, such as below 1 volt. Using such oscillator circuits, the described device is capable of functioning even when the power supply (coin battery) is significantly depleted. In further arrangements, the described circuit include one or more of an LDO (low drop out) regulator, IVR (integrated voltage regulator) regulator, a buck regulator, or a load switch. [0055] FIG.5 is an example of a circuit for an item box which incorporates one or more motion sensors according to one or more implementations of the present disclosure. Circuit 500 depicts an example item box circuit wherein a microcontroller 590 is used to read information from a proximity sensor 580, such as an infrared (IR) distance sensor. This combination of electrical components determines if there is motion outside of the box while the box lid is open. When the box lid is open and motion is detected, the light 110 turns on. In alternative implementations, the proximity sensor 580 is an ultrasonic sensor. [0056] In keeping with some implementations of the present disclosure, when the item box is ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ power is delivered to the circuit 500. When the box is open, the switch 52^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ its normally closed position and power is delivered to the circuit 500. Capacitor C1 (570) is a power supply bypass capacitor used to smooth power delivery to the microcontroller 590 as it operates. Resistor R1 (560) is a current-limiting resistor used to protect the LED from overcurrent conditions.
Docket No.12403/012482-WO0 ^ [0057] In variation implementations, when the item box is powered by a power supply 540, such as a coin cell battery, the microcontroller 590 turns the light 110 on, which in some implementations is an LED. While powered, the microcontroller 590 continuously polls the IR distance sensor 580 at regular (programmable) intervals (say, once per second) to determine the amount of movement outside of the jewelry box. A program ran on a processor within the microcontroller 590 decides if the movement is sufficient to indicate that someone is in proximity to the box. If it is determined that motion is near enough to the box, the light 110 remains on or is turned on. When activated, the light 110 is kept on for a programmable period of time, such as, for example, between 1-10 seconds. [0058] A variety of batteries (such as battery 240 in FIG.2, battery 340 in FIG.3, power element 440 in FIG. 4, or battery 540 in FIG. 5) can be utilized consistent with the present disclosure. In particular arrangements, a lithium 3-volt lithium cell battery is the primary power source for a box consistent with the present disclosure, offering a reliable and consistent energy supply for illumination. In one or more variations, alkaline batteries, is an alternative source of power. In one or more implementations, there may be configurations that utilize multiple batteries of the same type, or combinations of different types, to enhance power capacity or longevity. For example, depending on the power needs of the processor, two batteries can be provided in series or parallel. In various arrangements, other types of batteries, such as rechargeable lithium-ion or nickel-metal hydride coin cells, are implemented for powering the light sensing and motion detection features. In one or more variants, configurations consistent with the present disclosure are designed to accommodate various brands and specifications of coin cell batteries, ensuring that users have a range of options that align with their preferences and usage requirements. [0059] It is to be understood that any structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting the systems and methods, but rather are provided as a representative embodiment and/or arrangement for teaching one skilled in the art one or more ways to implement the methods. [0060] It is to be further understood that like numerals in the drawings represent like elements through the several figures, and that not all components and/or steps described and illustrated with reference to the figures are required for all embodiments or arrangements. [0061] As used herein, “about” means within a margin of less than or equal to plus or minus 1, 2, 5 or 10% of the compared value. [0062] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an”
Docket No.12403/012482-WO0 ^ and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising”, when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. [0063] Terms of orientation are used herein merely for purposes of convention and referencing, and are not to be construed as limiting. However, it is recognized these terms could be used with reference to a viewer. Accordingly, no limitations are implied or to be inferred. [0064] Also, the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “having,” “containing,” “involving,” and variations thereof herein, is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. [0065] The subject matter described above is provided by way of illustration only and should not be construed as limiting. Various modifications and changes can be made to the subject matter described herein without following the example embodiments and applications illustrated and described, and without departing from the true spirit and scope of the invention encompassed by the present disclosure, which is defined by the set of recitations in the following claims and by structures and functions or steps which are equivalent to these recitations.