DE102016008225B4 - Imitation candle device with improved control features - Google Patents

Abstract

A faux candle device (102) comprising: a body; a flame element (202) protruding from the top of the body; one or more light sources (212) positioned to illuminate the flame element (202) to create the appearance of a real fire flame; an opening at an upper section of the body in the vicinity of the flame element (202) for receiving a puff of air and directing at least a portion of the puff inside the body, the same opening that allows light from the light source to reach the flame element (202);a sensor positioned within the body for detecting the puff of air directed at the faux candle device (102), the sensor being positioned below the opening;a touch-sensitive component (210) comprising two segments positioned on two different sides of the flame element at the upper section of the body for detecting a touch indicating movement of a user to extinguish the faux candle device below simulating use of his or her fingers, and generating an electrical signal in response to the detected touch that turns on or off the mock candle device (102) or the one or more light sources, the touch-sensitive component (210) being shaped as a collar surrounding the flame element (202); andelectronic circuitry positioned within the body to receive electrical signals generated by the sensor and/or the touch-sensitive component (210) and to modify an output light of the one or more light sources in response to a detection of the touch or the sensed touch.

Description

Related registrations

This patent document claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. CN201610261921.2 . The entire content of the aforementioned patent application is hereby incorporated by reference into the present patent document.

field of invention

The subject matter of this patent document relates to candle devices that use a faux flame and more particularly to features that control the operation of faux candle devices.

background

Conventional real flame candles, when lit, provide a comfortable atmosphere in many homes, hotels, churches, business premises and the like. However, traditional candles pose a number of risks, including the risk of fire, damage to surfaces due to hot wax and possible soot emission. Flameless candles have become increasingly popular alternatives to traditional candles. With no open flame or hot melting wax, flameless candles offer a longer lasting, safe and clean alternative. Such imitation candle devices often include light sources, such as LEDs, and electronic circuitry that controls the operation of the imitation candle device.

DE 20 2013 012 047 U1 describes an LED candle with a flame part that can produce a flickering effect of the flame.

US 2014/0268652 A1 describes an electronic candle with a flickering effect and a fragrance container.

WO 2012/099718 A1 describes an LED circuit device comprising an LED and a touch sensor.

US 2016/0029461 A1 describes a lighting device comprising a communication module to change the brightness according to a control signal.

DE 20 2015 102 274 U1 describes an electronic candle with an electromagnetically coupled flame element and a simulated flickering effect.

DE 20 2015 000 490 U1 describes an electronic candle comprising a wireless communication module which can receive control signals from a smartphone.

CN 204 268 356 U describes an electronic candle with a touch sensor in a sleeve around the lower part of the candle body.

Summary of Certain Embodiments

The invention is defined by the subject matter of the independent claim. Additional embodiments are subject of the dependent claims.

The disclosed embodiments relate to devices and methods for simplifying operations and use of electronic candle devices. The disclosed features allow an electronic candle device to be turned on or off remotely by a simple user action, such as touching the faux candle device or blowing on the faux candle or an associated remote control device.

An exemplary aspect of the disclosed embodiments relates to a faux candle device that includes: a body, a flame element protruding from the top of the body, one or more light sources positioned to illuminate the flame element to create the appearance of a real fire flame, a sensor positioned within the body for detecting a puff of air directed at the imitation candle device, and electronic circuitry positioned within the body for receiving electrical signals generated by the sensor and modify an output light of the one or more light sources in response to a detection of the puff.

Another exemplary aspect of the disclosed embodiments relates to a fake candle system that includes a fake candle device and a portable electronic device wirelessly coupled to the fake candle device. The faux candle device in such a system includes a body, a flame element projecting from the top of the body, one or more light sources positioned to illuminate the flame element to create the appearance of a real fire flame, and electronic circuitry positioned within the body to control at least one output of the one or more light sources, the electronic Circuitry includes a wireless receiver to receive wireless signals. The handheld electronic device of this system includes a display, a wireless transceiver, a processor, and memory containing processor executable code. The processor executable code, when executed by the processor, configures the handheld electronic device to present a graphical user interface on the display. The graphical user interface includes buttons or fields that enable activation of a blowout feature of the faux candle device on the electronic device and one or more of the following operations of the faux candle device: a power-on or power-off operation, a selection of a particular faux candle device, a selection a timing feature, setting a timing value, selecting a light intensity level, adjusting a light intensity level, selecting a movement of the flame element, adjusting an amount of movement of the flame element, or selecting a group of imitation candle devices.

character list

• 1 Figure 12 shows an exemplary imitation candle device with an associated remote control device.
• 2(A) Figure 12 shows certain components including a support mechanism for an artificial flame element of an exemplary imitation candle device.
• 2 B) FIG. 12 shows certain components including touch-sensitive structure of an exemplary mock candle device.
• 2(c) shows a side view of 2 B) , which includes certain inner candle components.
• 3 Figure 12 shows components of an exemplary faux candle device in more detail.
• 4(A) Figure 12 is an illustration of an exemplary remote control device for a fake candle device.
• 4(B) shows components of the remote control device of FIG 4(A) .
• 4(c) 12 shows an exemplary arrangement of a microphone hole on the remote control device.
• 4(D) Figure 1 shows an exemplary circuit diagram associated with a remote control device.
• 5(A) Figure 1 is a sequence of example user interface screens associated with an application for controlling the operations of a mock candle device.
• 5(B) Figure 1 is a sequence of example user interface screens for setting timing and controlling lighting characteristics of a mock candle device.
• 5(c) Figure 1 is a sequence of example user interface screens for controlling the operations of a group of imitation candle devices.
• 5(D) Figure 12 is an example user interface screen associated with a blowout feature of the mock candle device.
• 6 Figure 12 is a block diagram of electronic components of an apparatus that may be used to incorporate some of the disclosed embodiments.

Detailed Description of Certain Embodiments

In this specification, the word "exemplary" is used to mean something that serves as an example, case, or illustration. Any embodiment or configuration described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments or configurations. Instead, the use of the word "exemplary" is intended to present concepts in a concrete manner.

Imitation candle devices can simulate a real candle with a flame resembling a lifelike flame with flickering effects using optical, mechanical and electrical components. The disclosed embodiments provide additional features and functionality that enhance the operation of these devices, and in some cases additional features not obtainable from actual candles.

1 10 shows an exemplary faux candle device 102 with an associated remote control device 106 according to an exemplary embodiment. The flame element 104 projects upwardly from the body of the faux candle device 102, with the upper portion 108 of the body being formed to resemble melted candle wax to emphasize the resemblance of the candle device 102 to a real candle. The remote control device 106 is configured to communicate with of the mock candle device 102 over a wireless channel. For example, the remote control device 106 may include an infrared transmitter to provide various commands and signals to an infrared receiver of the mock candle device 102 . In some embodiments, other wireless communication protocols and techniques such as Bluetooth, cellular, WiFi, etc. may be used. In certain applications, the communication channel that enables remote control of the imitation candle device may include a wireless communication channel.

2(A) , 2 B) and 2(c) Figure 12 shows some of the components of an exemplary faux candle assembly that includes: a socket 214 that houses the internal candle components, and a flame element 202 that protrudes from the top of socket 214. The flame element 202 includes a hole 208 that allows a support structure 206 to pass through the hole to hang the flame element 202 . The ends of support structure 206 are secured within slots 216 formed at the top of socket 214 . As in the exemplary diagram of 2(A) As shown, support structure 206 is bent at both ends to fit inside slots 216, with a slight downward bend at the location of hole 208. The upper portion of the socket includes a notch to receive a plate 210 in the shape of an annulus. Note that in other implementations, the plate 210 may include other shapes, such as rectangular or triangular, and may be configured such that the flame element 202 is not completely surrounded and/or is configured smaller or larger. As will be described in more detail below, the collar not only acts as a decorative element to hide the candle's internal components from direct view and secures the ends of the support structure 216, but also allows for touch-sensitive operation of the candle.

A light source 212, such as an LED, may be placed within socket 214, as shown in FIG 2(c) is shown. The light source 212 may project light of a suitable color and/or intensity toward the flame element 202, for example. In some implementations, more than one light source 212 is used to illuminate the flame element 202 from one side and/or both sides. In some embodiments, the light source 212 may be an incandescent light source, a plasma light source, a laser light source, or may include other suitable light generating mechanisms.

3 12 shows additional details of the components of an exemplary imitation candle device that includes a flame element 302 suspended by a steel wire support structure 306. FIG. The lower section of the flame element 302 below the steel wire support structure 306 may include a magnetic element 320 that interacts with a magnetic field generated by a coil 316 . The coil 316 can be energized by control signals generated by electronic circuits located on a PCB 318, for example. In some implementations, the electronic circuitry can generate pulses that cause the electromagnet to turn on and off to vary the strength of the generated magnetic field or to reverse polarity at specific times. In one example, the signal that energizes coil 306 is a pulse width modulated signal. In other examples, the signal is an amplitude modulated, a phase modulated, or a frequency modulated signal for the coil 306. Due to interactions of the magnetic element 320 with the magnetic field of the coil 306, the flame element 302 can oscillate and produce a flickering effect when illuminated with light. generated by one or more of the light sources 314. The mock candle device may also include a wireless receiver component that receives and decodes wireless signals transmitted to it. Some components of such a wireless receiver may reside, for example, on the PCB board 318 and may operate based on one or more wireless technologies and protocols, such as infrared technology, Bluetooth, or cellular-based protocols.

3 Figure 3 also shows a ring 304 positioned around and in the vicinity of the flame element 302 at the top of the faux candle body. In some embodiments, the ring 304 serves as a decorative piece to hide the internal components of the faux candle device and/or resembles melted wax. In this regard, the ring 304 may have a particular color and/or reflectivity to produce the desired optical effect when viewed under ambient lighting or under the diffused and/or reflected illumination of the candle light source 314 . In some embodiments, ring 304 operates as a touch-sensitive on-off switch. In particular, ring 304 may be composed of a conductive material that forms a capacitive element in electrical communication with one or more components on PCB board 318 . Is a Contact with a user's finger is present or the finger is in close proximity to the ring 304, a capacitive contact is formed and closes the circuit. The touch sensitive mechanism can be used to turn the candle on or off in stages or to control other functions of the imitation candle. For example, each touch may increase or decrease the intensity of the light source 314, change the color of the light, or change the mode of operation (e.g., from flickering to constant intensity). In some embodiments, the touch-sensitive element (formed as a ring or other shapes) includes two segments that are preferably positioned on two different sides of the flame element on the top surface of the mock candle device. In such embodiments, the two-piece touch-sensitive element is configured to operate as a switch (e.g., by conducting a current) only when both segments of the touch-sensitive element are touched. For example, a user may touch a segment of the touch-sensitive element that is positioned close to or on one side of the flame element with their thumb and the other segment of the touch-sensitive element that is close to and on an opposite side of the flame element positioned, touch with his index finger to activate the switch and turn off the fake candle device. As such, the multi-segmental touch element can be used to simulate making it appear as if the user is extinguishing the candle flame using their fingers.

The imitation candle device from 3 also includes a microphone 310 supported inside the mock candle assembly by a microphone support member 308. The microphone 310 converts acoustic signals into electrical signals that are provided to an electronic component on the PCB board 318 . The microphone 310 is positioned closer to the top surface of the faux candle device to detect sound waves entering the interior of the faux candle device. For example, the top section of the faux candle device may include an opening (the same opening that allows light from light source 314 to reach flame element 302) that allows the microphone to detect acoustic waves entering down the interior of the faux candle device. In this manner, when a user blows in the direction of the mock flame element 302, the blow is detected by the microphone 310 and the appropriate signals are generated to turn off the mock candle device.

The electrical signals generated by the microphone 310 may be processed by the PCB board 318 components. The PCB 318 may include, for example, filters, analog-to-digital circuitry, and/or a processor or controller (e.g., a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an FPGA, an ASIC, etc.) that receive signals that the represent detected sound waves. The processor may execute program code stored on a non-volatile storage medium, such as ROM, RAM, or other storage device, to analyze the signals corresponding to the sound waves and determine that a breath was present . Upon detection of a puff, an appropriate signal may be generated to turn off the light source 314 and/or the entire mock candle assembly. The program code executed by the processor may include an algorithm that distinguishes between detected breath sounds and other sounds, such as a clapping or human conversation.

In some embodiments, the puff detection circuitry may be implemented as a separate component from other components of the PCB board 318 . The breath detection may be implemented using analog or digital circuitry, for example. In some embodiments, to facilitate breath detection, the microphone 310 that is mounted is coupled to an amplifier to generate an AC signal above a predetermined threshold voltage value (e.g., 200 mV) or within a certain range of values (e.g., 200 mV to 3.5 V) to generate. While the noise pressure/noise level due to a breath provides voltage levels above such a threshold (or within a predetermined range of values), other noises, such as a smack detected by the microphone, may only provide an AC signal below the threshold (e.g. 20 to 100 mV) or outside the predetermined range of values corresponding to the detection of the breath. The resulting signal from the amplifier may also be coupled to a second phase amplifier with a higher gain (from 100 to 300, for example). In some implementations, the second phase amplifier is a capacitively coupling transistor amplifier that forms a square wave that is provided to the processor to power down the candle device. If the detected sound wave produces a signal below the threshold, such a signal does not disable the second phase amplifier (e.g., the transistor amplifier), hence the appropriate signal to shut down the candle device is not generated. Note that in the above description, the voltage values are given as examples in order to facilitate understanding of the disclosed embodiments. However, it should be appreciated that other measurements, such as measured current values, to identify the puff and/or other ranges of values to effectuate the identification may also be used.

It should be noted that the above description has been given in terms of a faux candle device having a moving flame element. However, it should be appreciated that the use of a microphone for breath detection may also be implemented in other imitation candle designs, such as those employing a non-magnetic means of moving the flame element, in candle devices having a stationary flame element, or in any other imitation candle device that a microphone and associated circuitry. In addition, in some applications, the disclosed technology may also find use as part of a faux fireplace or fireplace, faux lampshade or chandelier, or other lighting fixture. In some implementations, a non-microphone device, such as a flow sensor, may also be used to detect the breath.

As in connection with 1 has been pointed out, the disclosed imitation candle devices can be equipped with a remote control device that enables remote control of various candle functionalities. An exemplary remote control device 400 is in 4(A) shown. Various buttons on remote control device 400 allow a user to remotely control various features of one or more associated mock candle devices. In particular, an on/off button 402 allows the mock candle device to be remotely turned on or off. The brightness/dimming level of the candle device is controlled by two switches 404(a) and 404(b) positioned below the on/off button 402, with the rate of flickering and/or movement of the flame element of the Candle can be controlled or regulated via switches 406(a) and 406(b). The remote control device 400 also includes one or more timing buttons 408 (e.g., four-phase timing buttons) that allow the faux candle device to be powered for one of a plurality of timing periods (e.g., a 4 hour, 6 hour, 8 hour, or 10 hour period ) is in operation prior to an automatic shutdown of the candle device. For example, to activate the clocking mode, a user may press the center clocking button followed by the button for the desired period of time. The remote control device 400 may also include additional buttons (e.g., a candle select button, a puff on/off activation button, a wireless pairing button, etc.) to enable additional operations and communications with one or more mock candle devices.

4(B) FIG. 14 shows an exploded view of the components of the exemplary remote control device of FIG 4(A) . A top cover 401 includes openings that accommodate various buttons, such as a power button 403, a circular button 405 with square (quad) activation sections, and one or more clock buttons 407. A flexible layer 409 (such as a silicon sheet) of suitable rigidity is underneath positioned with the keys on a PCB board 411 containing electronic circuitry. The remote control device also includes a negative side spring 413 and a positive side spring 415 and screws 417. A microphone 419 is placed on a microphone plate 429 to detect noise and generate electrical signals therefrom. The remote control device may also include a side cover 421 that allows (eg, through a hole in the side cover 421) an infrared receiver and/or transmitter to communicate with another device. A weight 423 can also be added as needed to help achieve a desired weight and/or balance for the remote control device. The bottom cover 425 includes a battery compartment that houses one or more batteries and the corresponding battery cover 427 .

How out 4(B) As can be seen, the remote control device includes a microphone 419 and the corresponding circuit board 429 used to detect and identify a breath. 4(c) Figure 12 shows an exemplary location of a microphone hole on the top cover of the remote control device. Similar to the description above in connection with the fake candle device, in some embodiments a user may blow on the remote control device in the vicinity of the microphone hole to control a functionality of the fake candle device, such as turning off the candle.

4(D) shows an example circuit diagram associated with the electrical components parameters of the remote control or regulating device. The circuit operates (at VDD) using a battery, such as a CR2032 lithium button battery, which supplies a voltage in the range of 2.2 to 3.2V to chip U1. In some implementations, chip U1 includes a microprocessor. However, it should be appreciated that the chip U1 may also include or be configured as an FPGA, an ASIC, a DSP, or discrete circuit components. The chip U1 controls various operations of the remote control device, such as detecting that a switch (e.g. one of switches S1 to S10) has been pressed. The chip U1 includes an IRout pin that controls an infrared LED for transmitting an infrared signal to another device. The electrical current from the battery is filtered by capacitors C1 and C2 and provided to the IR LED. A microphone (MIC1) is connected to a two-stage electronic circuit, namely transistors Q1 and Q2 and associated biasing and gain components (e.g. resistors R2 to R5). In some embodiments, the chip U1 remains in an idle operating state when a "high" voltage is present on an input pin corresponding to a particular functionality, such as an on-off functionality, a clocking functionality, a brightness increase functionality, a brightness decrease functionality, a flame movement interrupting/slowing/stopping functionality, flame motion fluctuating/accelerating/starting functionality, puff detection functionality, and the like. In such embodiments, chip U1 waits until a low signal occurs. If, for example, a breath is directed at the microphone hole of the remote control or regulating device, a sound wave with a certain strength or a certain sound pressure is generated at the head of the microphone. In an exemplary embodiment, such a puff generates an AC signal of about 200 mV or more, which is then amplified 100 to 300 times to form square waves that drive the corresponding input of chip U1 to a low level for a specified period of time Set voltage value. As a result, the infrared transmitter is activated and a signal is transmitted to the candle device to turn off the candle. Implementing the breath detection circuitry as a separate subsystem of the remote control system (as shown in the example diagram of 4(D) implemented) allows breath detection capability to be added to an existing remote control device without having to redesign the internal circuitry or programming of chip U1. In addition, implementing the breath detection subsystem in discrete components may enable increased speed of detection by avoiding additional delays due to processing by chip U1. In addition, as noted, the disclosed embodiments prevent inadvertent activation of this feature due to background noise and unwanted noise. In some embodiments, the instructions of the puff detection circuitry and/or associated detection software may be used to cause the simulated flame to flicker. For example, if the strength of the detected puff is below a certain threshold (e.g., a certain voltage value), the puff may be identified as not being strong enough to extinguish the simulated flame. As such, detection of such a puff can cause the intensity and pattern of illumination of the flame element to change to simulate a real candle flickering in the wind.

From all of the foregoing it will be appreciated that in one aspect of the disclosed technology there is provided an imitation candle device including: a body, a flame element projecting from the top of the body, one or more light sources positioned to illuminate the flame element to form the to produce the appearance of a real flame of fire, a sensor positioned within the body for detecting a puff of air directed at the imitation candle device, and electronic circuitry positioned within the body for electrical signals generated by the sensor are generated, to receive and to modify an output light of the one or more light sources in response to a detection of the puff. In an exemplary embodiment, the sensor is a microphone that generates the electrical signals in response to detection of an acoustic wave. In another exemplary embodiment, the sensor is an airflow sensor that generates the electrical signals in response to a detection of airflow in the vicinity of the airflow sensor. In yet another exemplary embodiment, the faux candle device includes an opening at an upper section of the body proximate the flame element for receiving the puff of air and directing at least a portion of the puff inside the body.

According to another exemplary embodiment, the electronic circuitry is configured to transmit the received electrical physical signals associated with the air puff from the received electrical signals unrelated to the air puff. The received electrical signals unrelated to the air puff may include, for example, electrical signals related to ambient noise, clapping, or human speech. In another exemplary embodiment, the electronic circuitry includes a first stage detection circuit coupled to the sensor to receive the electrical signals generated by the sensor, and a second stage detection circuit having an input coupled to a Output of the first stage detection circuit is coupled. The second stage detection circuit has an output indicative of detection of the breath in response to receipt of a voltage or current value within a predetermined range from the first stage detection circuit. For example, the first-stage detection circuit produces an output in the predetermined range upon detection of the electrical signals corresponding to the puff and an output that is outside the predetermined range upon detection of the electrical signals not corresponding to the puff.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the electronic circuitry turns off one or more of the light sources in response to detection of the puff. In yet another exemplary embodiment, the electronic circuitry turns off the fake candle device in response to a detection of the puff. In some embodiments, the electronic circuitry is configured to turn off the faux candle device for a predetermined period of time in response to detection of the puff. In yet another embodiment, the mockup candle device further includes a touch-sensitive component positioned on or near an outer surface of the body to sense a touch and generate an electrical signal in response to the detected touch that the mockup candle device or the turns one or more light sources on or off. According to another exemplary embodiment, the touch-sensitive component is shaped as a rim surrounding the flame element.

In some exemplary embodiments, the faux candle device further includes a remote control device configured to transmit a signal to the electronic circuitry to control one or more operations of the faux candle device. In an exemplary embodiment, the remote control device includes an electronic circuit board and a microphone coupled to the electronic circuit board. The microphone is positioned to detect sounds through an opening on the remote control device to generate an electrical signal in response to the detected sounds and provide the electrical signals to a component on the electronic circuit board. For example, the component on the electronic circuit board may include a two-phase detection circuit having an output indicative of detection of a puff of air in response to detection of a voltage or current value within a predetermined range.

In some exemplary embodiments, the remote control device also includes a wireless transmission device that is activated to generate a signal for transmission to a receiver device within the body of the imitation candle device upon detection of the output indicative of detection of a puff of air. The wireless communication device may include, for example, one or more of an infrared communication device, a Bluetooth communication device, or a cellular communication device.

In some embodiments, the remote control or regulation functionalities and features are implemented as an application or app on an electronic device, such as a smartphone, a tablet, a laptop or similar devices. Such an application allows various features to be implemented in a user-friendly graphical user interface (GUI) and further facilitates the addition of new features and/or improvements via software updates. 5(A) until 5(D) illustrate example user interface screens of an example application. As in 5(A) For example, as shown, the application can determine whether a particular imitation candle device is within communication range and provides an indication when the application is unable to connect to one or more candles. Such a connection can be established via Bluetooth, for example. The application also allows a user to select a particular candle device from a plurality of candle devices included in the selection of 5(A) is shown as a matrix candle. As further in 5(A) 1, once a particular candle device is selected, the user interface allows the selected candle to turn on or off switched by selecting the on/off button and activating the button as required.

5(B) shows the activation of additional functionalities through the user interface. In particular, in the example user interface screen of FIG 5(B) the timing selection option, setting a start time, an end time, and a repeat period. The clocking setting can also be adjusted to user needs in order to activate the desired feature on certain days of the week (e.g. by clicking on or highlighting the specific day(s) in question on the user interface). The remote application also allows the selection of an appropriate candlelight intensity, for example by clicking on one of the segments on the illustrated light wheel. Such a selection enables the light intensity to be adjusted in order, for example, to do justice to different moods and/or different ambient light conditions. The movement of the flame element can also be controlled via the remote application, for example by using a slider to select the degree of flickering, which in appearance ranges from full flickering to a static flame. Additional control features (e.g. via a second slider) can also be provided to control the flicker rate. Upon selection of an appropriate level of light intensity and/or flame motion, appropriate control signals are generated at the remote control device and transmitted to the imitation candle device. Upon receipt of such control signals, the imitation candle device adjusts or activates/deactivates the selected features.

5(c) shows additional exemplary operating or operating procedures and selection options of the remote control or regulation application. For example, selecting an item in the main menu (e.g., "Back", "Blowout", "Messages", "Profile", "About..." and "Privacy") allows the user to navigate through the corresponding menu item. A feature of the disclosed remote application allows selection of a group of candle devices. Such a group can be formed, for example, by selecting individual candle devices to be part of the group or by assigning a group name (e.g. by typing in a desired group name). Once a group is formed, various functionalities of the candle devices within the group can be activated and/or adjusted. As in 5(c) For example, as shown, group timing selection, group timing adjustments, group light level selection, and group flame motion selection may be made in a manner similar to that described in connection with a single candle assembly. Additionally, if desired, a single disconnect button on the user interface can terminate communications with all devices within the group or groups.

The blow on/off functionality can also be activated via the user interface by selecting the blow out object in the main menu (see 5(c) ). Once the blowout functionality is activated on the remote device, the application can send a notification to the user (see 5(D) ) provide that the candle device can be switched off by blowing into the microphone of the electronic device (e.g. a mobile device). The candle application receives the signals generated by the device's microphone and, upon detection of the puff, generates an appropriate signal for transmission to the candle device. The candle device turns off the candle upon receiving the signal from the remote control device. In some implementations, the blow is detected by processing the strength and/or pattern of data received from the microphone to discriminate and prevent ambient noise or unwanted noise from inadvertently generating a blow out signal . Such processing may include, for example, correlation and pattern recognition operations that produce a hit only if a pattern and/or strength of the puff blowing is detected. In some implementations, the detection of the puff is also made through cooperation between the remote control device and the mock candle device.

In some embodiments, a plurality of imitation candle devices (e.g., made by the same manufacturer) may be operated by a single highly customized remote control device (e.g., a dedicated remote control device, such as that illustrated in FIG 4(A) until 4(c) or a remote control implemented on an electronic device). The function keys or selections on the remote control device allow a user to set different characteristics of the imitation candle device (such as brightness to dimming level, fast to slow flame movement, different timing hours) for each of the Controls or regulates imitation candle devices individually or as a group. Such selectivity greatly enhances a user's interactions with the multiple devices and allows for arbitrary customization of the desired candle functions for candles located in different locations and in different environmental conditions. In one example, the remote control device is IR based and can operate at multiple frequencies. In such embodiments, the remote control device is configured to distinguish the remote control operating frequencies from other imitation candle products and devices and, once received, effectuate remote control of the functionalities of those devices. The remote control device may attempt communication with an unknown fake candle device at different operating frequencies in a trial-and-error manner until the unknown fake candle device responds (e.g., is turned off). In an exemplary implementation, an infrared remote controlled candle operates at a frequency of 32 kHz. In another example, the candle may remotely accept and receive a plurality of codes (e.g., from 1 to N) to identify particular candles (e.g., entered by a user). Additionally, in some embodiments, a user may have a unique identifier that identifies a specific user.

6 FIG. 6 shows a block diagram of an apparatus 600 in which some of the disclosed embodiments are implemented. The device 600 comprises at least one processor 602 and/or a controller, at least one memory unit 604, which is in communication with the processor 602, and at least one communication unit 606, which enables an exchange of data and information, be it directly or indirectly, through the Enables communication link 608 with other entities, devices, and networks. The communication unit 606 may provide wired and/or wireless communication capabilities in accordance with one or more communication protocols, and therefore may have appropriate transceiver antennas (transceivers), circuitry and ports, as well as encoding/decoding capabilities necessary for appropriate transmission and/or a appropriate receipt of data and other information may be necessary.

For example, the device 600 may simplify the implementation of a mock candle system. Such a system includes a fake candle device and a portable electronic device wirelessly coupled to the fake candle device. The faux candle device includes a body, a flame element protruding from the top of the body, one or more light sources positioned to illuminate the flame element to create the appearance of a real fire flame, and electronic circuitry for controlling at least an output of the one or more light sources. The electronic circuit also includes a wireless receiver for receiving wireless signals. The handheld electronic device includes a display, a wireless transceiver, a processor, and memory containing processor executable code. The processor executable code, when executed by the processor, configures the handheld electronic device to present a graphical user interface on the display. The graphical user interface includes buttons or buttons that enable activation of a blowout feature of the mock candle device by blowing on the portable electronic device and activation of one or more of the following operations of the mock candle device: a power-on or power-off operation , selection of a particular imitation candle device, selection of a timing feature, setting a timing value, selection of a light intensity level, adjustment of a light intensity level, selection of flame element movement, adjustment of flame element movement extent, or selection of a group of imitation candle devices.

In an exemplary embodiment, the handheld electronic device further includes a microphone. In this embodiment, the processor executable code, when executed by the processor, configures the portable electronic device to detect a strength or pattern of electrical signals generated by the microphone corresponding to a puff of air and the wireless transceiver upon activation of the blowout feature on the electronic device activate the electronic device to transmit a signal to the fake candle device to allow the fake candle device to be turned off. In some example embodiments, the processor executable code, when executed by the processor, configures the wireless transceiver to transmit a signal to the particular mockup candle device upon selection of the particular mockup candle device to establish a wireless connection with the mockup wireless candle device. In some embodiments, the wireless transceiver can be configured to operate according to a Bluetooth or cellular based wireless communication protocol.

In some embodiments, the system described above includes one or more additional imitation candle devices. In some embodiments, the processor executable code, when executed by the processor, configures the portable electronic device, upon selection of a group that includes more than one mock candle device, to transmit command signals to perform identical operations on all of the mock candle devices in the group. The command signals may include one or more of an indication to change light intensity levels, an indication to change the amount of movement of flame elements, an indication to change set timing values, an indication to turn off all fake candle devices, or an indication to disconnect all fake candle devices.

In an exemplary embodiment, the handheld electronic device is one of a smartphone, a tablet device, or a laptop computer. In another exemplary embodiment, the mock candle assembly further includes a magnetic actuator and a magnetic element coupled to a lower section of the flame element for interaction with the magnetic actuator to cause movement of the flame element. In yet another exemplary embodiment, the processor executable code, when executed by the processor, configures the handheld electronic device, upon selection of movement of the flame element and setting the movement to a specified amount, to transmit a signal to the mock candle device to indicate a change in the amount of movement of the flame element to cause flame element.

Some of the embodiments described herein have been described in the general context of methods and processes, which in one embodiment are implemented by a computer program product embodied on a computer-readable medium, including computer-executable instructions, such as program code, executed by computers in networked environments . A computer-readable medium may include removable and non-removable storage media, including but not limited to read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), compact disks (CDs), digital versatile disks (DVD), etc computer-readable media include non-volatile storage media. In general, program modules can include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc. that perform specific tasks or implement specific abstract data types. Computer or processor executable instructions, associated data structures, and program modules represent examples of program code for performing steps of the methods disclosed herein. The specific sequence of such executable instructions or associated data structures represent examples of appropriate approaches to implementing the functions described in the steps or processes .

Some of the disclosed embodiments may be implemented as devices or modules using hardware circuitry, software, or combinations thereof. For example, a hardware circuit implementation may include discrete analog and/or digital components integrated, for example, as part of a printed circuit board. Alternatively or additionally, the disclosed components or modules may be implemented as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC)) device and/or as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) device. Some implementations may additionally or alternatively include a digital signal processor (DSP), which is a specialized microprocessor having an architecture optimized for the operational needs of digital signal processing associated with the disclosed functionalities of this application. Similarly, the various components or sub-components within each module can be implemented in software, hardware, or firmware. Connectivity between the modules and/or components within the modules may be provided using any of the connectivity methods and media known in the art, including but not limited to communication over the Internet, wired or wireless networks using the appropriate protocols .

The foregoing description of embodiments has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. The foregoing description is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present invention to the precise forms disclosed, and modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or may be acquired from practice of different embodiments. The embodiments discussed herein were chosen and described in order to explain the principles and nature of the various embodiments and their practical application to enable any person skilled in the art to utilize the present invention in various embodiments and various Modifications, if they are suitable for a specific intended use, to use. The features of the embodiments described here can be combined in all possible combinations of methods, devices, modules, systems and computer program products.

Claims (15)

A faux candle device (102) comprising: a body; a flame element (202) projecting from the top of the body; one or more light sources (212) positioned to illuminate the flame element (202) to create the appearance of a real fire flame; an opening at an upper section of the body in the vicinity of the flame element (202) for receiving a puff of air and directing at least part of the puff inside the body, the same opening that allows light from the light source to enter the flame element (202 ) reached; a sensor positioned within the body for detecting the puff of air directed at the faux candle device (102), the sensor positioned below the opening; a touch-sensitive component (210) comprising two segments positioned on two different sides of the flame element at the upper section of the body for detecting a touch simulating a movement of a user to extinguish the imitation candle device using his or her fingers, and generate an electrical signal in response to the detected touch that turns on or off the imitation candle device (102) or the one or more light sources, the touch-sensitive component (210) being shaped as a collar surrounding the flame element (202); and electronic circuitry positioned within the body to receive electrical signals generated by the sensor and/or the touch-sensitive component (210) and output light from the one or more light sources in response to detection of the breath or the to modify the detected touch. Imitation candle device (102). claim 1 wherein the sensor is a microphone that generates the electrical signals in response to detection of an acoustic wave. Imitation candle device (102). claim 1 wherein the sensor is an airflow sensor that generates the electrical signals in response to a detection of flowing air in the vicinity of the airflow sensor. The fake candle device (102) of any preceding claim, wherein the electronic circuitry is configured to distinguish received electrical signals associated with the puff of air from received electrical signals unrelated to the puff of air. Imitation candle device (102). claim 4 wherein the received electrical signals unrelated to the air puff include electrical signals related to ambient noise, clapping, or human speech. A faux candle device (102) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electronic circuitry includes: a first stage detection circuit coupled to the sensor to receive the electrical signals generated by the sensor; and a second stage detection circuit having an input coupled to an output of the first stage detection circuit, the second stage detection circuit having an output enabling detection of the breath in response to receiving a voltage or current value within a predetermined range of of the first stage detection circuit. Imitation candle device (102). claim 6 wherein the first stage detection circuit is configured to generate an output in the predetermined range upon detection of the electrical signals corresponding to the puff and an output that is outside of the predetermined range upon detection of the electrical signals that do not correspond to the puff correspond to produce. A fake candle device (102) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electronic circuitry is configured to turn off one or more of the light sources in response to a detection of the puff. The faux candle device (102) of any preceding claim, wherein the electronic circuitry is configured to turn off the faux candle device (102) in response to detection of the puff. A fake candle device (102) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electronic circuitry is configured to, in response to a detection of the puff, ignite the fake candles direction (102) off for a predetermined period of time. The fake candle device (102) of any preceding claim, further including a remote control device configured to transmit a signal to the electronic circuitry to control one or more operations of the fake candle device (102). . Imitation candle device (102). claim 11 wherein the remote control device includes an electronic circuit board and a microphone coupled to the electronic circuit board, the microphone positioned to detect noise through an opening on the remote control device to generate an electrical signal generate in response to the detected noise and provide the electrical signals to a component on the electronic circuit board. Imitation candle device (102). claim 12 wherein the component on the electronic circuit board includes a two-stage detection circuit having an output indicative of detection of a puff of air in response to detection of a voltage or current value within a predetermined range. Imitation candle device (102). Claim 13 wherein: the remote control device comprises a wireless transmission device activated to generate a signal for transmission to a receiver device within the body of the imitation candle device (102) upon detection of the output indicative of detection of a puff of air. Imitation candle device (102). Claim 14 wherein the wireless transmission device includes one or more of an infrared transmission device, a Bluetooth transmission device, or a cellular transmission device.

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