EP1199525A2 - Vorrichtung zum Simulieren von Flammen und Bauelemente dafür - Google Patents

Vorrichtung zum Simulieren von Flammen und Bauelemente dafür Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1199525A2
EP1199525A2 EP01128774A EP01128774A EP1199525A2 EP 1199525 A2 EP1199525 A2 EP 1199525A2 EP 01128774 A EP01128774 A EP 01128774A EP 01128774 A EP01128774 A EP 01128774A EP 1199525 A2 EP1199525 A2 EP 1199525A2
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
flame
light
screen
fuel bed
flicker
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP01128774A
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English (en)
French (fr)
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EP1199525B1 (de
EP1199525A3 (de
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designation of the inventor has not yet been filed The
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Dimplex North America Ltd
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Dimplex North America Ltd
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Publication date
Priority claimed from CA 2175442 external-priority patent/CA2175442C/en
Priority claimed from US08/801,469 external-priority patent/US6047489A/en
Application filed by Dimplex North America Ltd filed Critical Dimplex North America Ltd
Publication of EP1199525A2 publication Critical patent/EP1199525A2/de
Publication of EP1199525A3 publication Critical patent/EP1199525A3/de
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1199525B1 publication Critical patent/EP1199525B1/de
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
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    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24C—DOMESTIC STOVES OR RANGES ; DETAILS OF DOMESTIC STOVES OR RANGES, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
    • F24C7/00—Stoves or ranges heated by electric energy
    • F24C7/002—Stoves
    • F24C7/004—Stoves simulating flames
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
    • F21S10/00—Lighting devices or systems producing a varying lighting effect
    • F21S10/04—Lighting devices or systems producing a varying lighting effect simulating flames

Definitions

  • the present invention relates generally to simulated fireplaces and, more particularly, to flame simulating assemblies for electric fireplaces and the like.
  • Electric fireplaces are popular because they provide the visual qualities of real fireplaces without the costs and complications associated with venting of the combustion gases.
  • An assembly for producing a realistic simulated flame for electric fireplaces is disclosed in U.S. Patent 4,965,707 (Butterfield).
  • the Butterfield assembly uses a system of billowing ribbons and a diffusion screen for simulating flames.
  • the simulated flames are surprisingly realistic, although the effect resembles a flame from a coal fuel source (which is popular in Europe), rather than a log fuel source (which is more popular in North America).
  • the flames for burning logs tend to be more active and extend higher above the fuel source. Also, the log flame tends to be less red (and more yellow) in color than the coal flame.
  • the present invention is directed to an improved flame simulating assembly that produces a realistic appearing flame.
  • the invention provides a flame simulating assembly comprising:
  • the invention provides a flame simulating assembly comprising:
  • the invention provides a flame simulating assembly, comprising:
  • the invention provides a flame effect element for use in a flame simulating assembly, comprising:
  • the invention provides a generally transparent screen for use in a flame simulating assembly comprising:
  • the invention provides a flame simulating assembly comprising:
  • the invention provides a simulated fuel bed for use in a flame simulating assembly, comprising:
  • the invention provides a screen, for use in a flame simulating assembly, comprising:
  • the invention provides a screen, for use in a flame simulating assembly, comprising:
  • the invention provides a flame simulating assembly comprising:
  • the invention provides a fireplace assembly comprising:
  • the invention provides a flicker element for use in a flame simulating assembly comprising a plurality of reflective strips protruding radially from a rod, said strips being non-rectilinear in shape.
  • a flame simulating assembly in accordance with the present invention is shown generally at 10 in the figures.
  • the assembly is incorporated within an electric fireplace which is depicted generally at 12 with an electrical connection 13 for connecting to a power source (not shown).
  • the electric fireplace 12 includes a housing 14 that defines a simulated firebox having top, bottom, front, rear and side walls 16, 18, 20, 22 and 23, respectively. A portion of the front wall is defined by a transparent front panel 24 that is removable to permit access to the contents of the housing 14.
  • a control unit 21 is located above the top wall of the housing. The control unit 21 includes a heater unit 25, a thermostat 27 for controlling the heat output and a main power switch 29 for actuating the flame effect.
  • a simulated fuel bed 26 is supported on a platform 28 located at a lower front portion of the housing 14.
  • the fuel bed 26 comprises a plastic shell that is vacuum formed and colored to resemble logs and embers for a log burning fire.
  • Portions of the shell are translucent to permit light from a light source 30 located beneath the fuel bed 26 to shine through.
  • the shell may be formed from an orange translucent plastic.
  • the top side of the plastic shell may be painted in places to resemble the surface of logs.
  • the underside of the plastic shell may be painted black (or some other opaque color) and then sanded in portions where it is desired for light to pass.
  • the protruding points on the underside of the shell (corresponding to indents in the top side) may be sanded to allow light passage. These points would thus resemble the embers of a fire.
  • the crotch area between simulated logs may be sanded (or left unpainted) to resemble embers at the intersection of two logs.
  • the light source 30 comprises three 60 watt light bulbs that are supported in sockets 34 below the fuel bed 26. Alternatively, one or more quartz halogen lights may be utilized.
  • the sockets 34 are supported by vertical arms 36 that are connected with fasteners 38 to the bottom wall of the housing 14.
  • a parabolic reflector 40 is located below the light source 30 at the lower front end of the housing 14 to direct light toward the rear of the housing 14.
  • the intensity of the light can be varied with a dimmer switch 41 that is electrically connected to the light source 30 and located on the control unit 21.
  • a fuel bed light assembly 100 may be arranged beneath the underside of the fuel bed 26.
  • the fuel bed light assembly 100 includes a support element 102 that supports a string of lights 104 beneath the fuel bed 26.
  • the lights 104 are adapted to flicker at different times to give the impression of increases and decreases in heat (as depicted by differences of light intensity) in the embers of the fuel bed. It has been found that conventional Christmas lights are suitable for this purpose. It has also been found that a realistic ember effect may be generated by positioning four regular light bulbs beneath the bed and randomly varying the intensity of the lights using a micro-processor (not shown).
  • a vertical screen 42 Located immediately behind the fuel bed 26 is a vertical screen 42.
  • the screen 42 is transparent and has a partially reflecting surface 44 and a diffusing surface 46.
  • the screen 42 is seated in a groove 48 defined in a lower horizontal support member 50.
  • the lower horizontal support member 50 is fastened to the side walls 23 of the housing 14 with fasteners 52.
  • the screen 42 is supported on its sides with side frame members 54 that are fastened to the side walls 23 with fasteners 56.
  • the screen structure is described in more detail in U.S. Patent 4,965,707 which is incorporated herein by reference.
  • the screen 42 is positioned immediately behind the fuel bed 26 so that the fuel bed 26 will be reflected in the reflecting surface 44 to give the illusion of depth.
  • the image of simulated flames appears to be emanating from between the fuel bed 26 and the reflection of the fuel bed 26 in the screen.
  • simulated flames appear to be emanating from the reflected image of the fuel bed 26.
  • An upper light source 57 is located at the top front portion of the housing for illuminating the top of the simulated fuel bed 26 and enhancing the reflected image in the screen 42.
  • the assembly includes a flame effect element 58, a blower 60 and upper and lower flicker elements 62 and 64.
  • the flame effect element 58 is formed from a single thin sheet of a light-weight, substantially opaque, material such as polyester.
  • the element 58 extends across substantially the full width of the screen 42.
  • a plurality of slits 66 are cut into the flame effect element 58 to permit passage of light through the flame effect element 58 as it billows under the influence of air currents from the blower 60.
  • Longer sized slits 66 are located at the lower end of the flame effect element 58 to simulate longer flames emanating from the fuel bed 26.
  • Smaller slits 66 are located at the upper end of the flame effect element 58 to simulate the licks of flames that appear above the large main flames emanating from the fuel bed 26.
  • the slits 66 are arranged in a pattern that is symmetrical about a center axis 68 of the flame effect element 58 to give a balanced appearance to the flame effect.
  • the element 58 may be coated with a plastic film (such as polyurethane) to retard fraying about the edges of the slits.
  • the flame effect element could comprise a plurality of discrete flame effect elements 58 as disclosed in U.S. Patent 4,965,707 that is incorporated herein by reference.
  • the flame effect element 58 is supported at its bottom end by fasteners 70 that connect to the lower horizontal support member 50.
  • the flame effect element 58 is supported at its upper end by fasteners 72 that connect to an upper horizontal support member 74.
  • the upper horizontal support member is connected by fasteners 76 to the side walls of the housing 14.
  • the flame effect element 58 is supported relatively loosely between the horizontal supports so that it will billow or ripple with the air currents from the blower 60.
  • the blower 60 is supported by a mounting bracket 78 that is supported with fasteners 80 to the bottom wall of the housing 14.
  • An airflow control switch 83 is provided on the control unit 21 to vary the blower airflow to a desired amount. The greater the airflow, the more active the flame will appear. Alternatively, the flame effect element 58 may be moved mechanically to produce sufficient billowing or rippling to give the flame effect.
  • the transmitted light is at least partially colored due to its reflecting from a colored reflecting surface 82 of a flicker element 62, 64 prior to passing through the slits 66.
  • each flicker element comprises an elongate rod 81 having a plurality of reflective strips 82 extending radially outwardly therefrom.
  • the flicker elements 62, 64 preferably have a diameter of about two to three inches.
  • the strips 82 are formed from a length of material having a width of approximately one and a half inches. A series of transverse slits are cut along one elongate side of the length of the material 83 to define each individual strip 82.
  • the length of material 83 is then wrapped about the rod 81 so that the strips 82 protrude radially about the full circumference of the rod 81.
  • the strips 82 may be cut to lengths of around two to three inches and clamped at their centers by spiral wound wires that form the rod 81.
  • the reflective surfaces of the flicker elements could be mirrored glass pieces arranged about the surface of a cylinder.
  • the rods 81 are supported at one end in corresponding recesses 84 defined in a vertical support arm 86 that is connected by fasteners 88 to the bottom wall of the housing 14.
  • the rods 81 are connected at their other end to corresponding rotors 90 for rotating each rod 81 about its axis.
  • the rotors 90 are rotated by electric motors 91 as shown.
  • the rotors 90 are supported by a vertical support member 92 that is connected with fasteners 94 to the bottom wall of the housing 14.
  • the rotor 90 may be rotated by air currents from the blower 60 engaging corresponding fins on the rotors.
  • the rotors 90 rotate the flicker elements 62, 64 in the direction indicated by arrow 93 in Fig.
  • the lower flicker element is positioned slightly below the horizontal level of the upper end of the fuel bed 26. This facilitates the appearance of upwardly moving gasses and colored flames emanating from near the surface of the fuel bed when viewed by a person in front of the fireplace.
  • the upper flicker element is positioned at a horizontal level above the fuel bed 26 to give the appearance of upwardly moving gasses and colored flames emanating a distance above the fuel bed when viewed by a person in front of the fireplace.
  • the upper and lower flicker elements 62, 64 improve the light intensity of the simulated flame and gasses.
  • each strip 82 is formed from a reflective material such as MYLARTM.
  • the strip 82 is preferably colored with either a blue or red tip 96 and a silver body 98, although a fully silver body has been used successfully as well.
  • a length of material 83 with red tipped strips 82 and a length of material 83 with blue tipped strips 82 may both be wrapped about the rod 81.
  • a combination of blue and red tipped strips 82 protrude radially from the rod 81 over the entire length of the flicker element 62.
  • the upper flicker element 62 reflects white, red and blue light that is subsequently transmitted through the flame effect element 58.
  • the lower flicker element 64 as shown in Fig. 8, comprises a dense arrangement of thin strips 82 that are formed from a reflective material such as MYLARTM.
  • the strips 82 are either substantially gold in color, or substantially red in color.
  • a combination of lengths of material 83 with red strips 82 and gold strips 82 may be wrapped around the rod 81 to produce an overall red and gold tinsel appearance.
  • the lower flicker element 64 reflects yellow and red light that is subsequently transmitted through the flame effect element 58.
  • the flicker elements 62, 64 are rotated by the rotors 90 so that the reflective surfaces of the strips 82 reflect colors through the slits 66 of the billowing flame effect element 58 and produce the effect of upwardly moving gasses.
  • the colors reflected by the lower flicker element 64 resemble the colors of flames located near the surface of the fuel bed 26.
  • the colors reflected by the upper flicker element 62 resemble the colors of flames that are located further from the surface of the fuel bed 26.
  • the upper flicker element 62 has a less dense arrangement of strips 82 in order to produce more random reflections that simulate a more active flickering flame at a distance above the fuel bed 26.
  • the more dense arrangement of strips 82 in the lower flicker 64 produces relatively more constant reflections that simulate the more constant flame activity adjacent to the fuel bed 26.
  • the upper flicker element 62 is positioned slightly below the horizontal level of the upper end of the fuel bed 26.
  • the lower flicker element 64 is positioned slightly above the horizontal level of the lower end of the fuel bed 26.
  • the lower flicker element 64 is positioned slightly above the horizontal level of the lower end of the fuel bed 26.
  • an improved vertical screen 42' is depicted.
  • the front of the screen includes a partially reflecting surface 44' that is divided into a matte region 200, a transition region 202 and a reflecting region 204.
  • the reflecting region 204 is located at the lower end of the vertical screen 42' and is sufficiently sized for reflecting the fuel bed 26 to produce the simulated effect.
  • the reflecting region 204 is not overly sized so as to reflect unwanted images such as the floor covering located immediately in front of the fireplace.
  • the vertical screen 42' includes the matte region 200 at its middle and upper end.
  • the matte region 200 has a matte finish that does not reflect images while still permitting visibility of the simulated flame image through the vertical screen 42'.
  • the transition region 202 comprises a gradual transition between the non-reflective matte region 200 and the reflecting region 204.
  • the fuel bed 26' includes a first portion 206 composed of a ceramic material and formed and colored to simulate logs.
  • the bed 26' also includes a second portion 208 composed of a plastic material and formed and colored to simulate an ember bed.
  • the ember bed 208 is preferably translucent to permit the passage of light from the light source 30 or fuel bed light assembly 100 as described earlier. It has been found that a more accurate simulation of logs 206 can be accomplished using ceramic materials and flexible molds.
  • the ember bed 208 can still be formed realistically from plastic using a vacuum forming method.
  • the bed is formed to receive the ceramic logs 206.
  • the ceramic logs 206 are then glued to the ember bed 208 to form the fuel bed.
  • a third embodiment of the flame simulating assembly 10 is depicted.
  • the third embodiment does not include the blower 60 or the light-weight flame effect element 58 which was adapted to billow in the airflow of the blower.
  • an improved flame effect element 58' is positioned behind and substantially across the full width of the screen 42.
  • the improved flame effect element 58' is similar in appearance to the flame effect element 58 depicted in Fig. 5.
  • the improved flame effect element 58' is positioned preferably in a generally vertical plane approximately three inches behind the screen 42 (and about 1/2 inch from the flicker elements 62, 64).
  • the element 58' is preferably formed of a more rigid material (e.g. plastic or thin steel) so that it will remain generally stationary in its vertical position.
  • a light-weight material such as polyester may be used instead with the element 58' being stretched taut into a vertical position.
  • a vertical position for the element 58' is not critical, so long as light passage is possible as described below.
  • a plurality of slits 66' are cut into the flame effect element 58' to permit passage of light from the light source 30 through the flame effect element 58' to the screen 42. While the improved flame effect element 58' remains relatively stationary, the flame simulation effect is nonetheless observable due to the reflection of light from the flicker elements 62 and 64 as the light passes through the slits 66'.
  • the improved flame effect element 58' is sandwiched between upper and lower support elements 210 and 212 to support the flame effect element in a generally vertical position.
  • the lower horizontal support member 50 acts as one of the lower support elements.
  • lower horizontal support member 50 acts as a horizontal opaque screen 214 to block light from passing below the screen 42 and flame effect element 58'. In this manner, substantially all of the light reaching the screen 42 has been reflected by flicker elements 62 and 64 and passes through slits 66' in the flame effect element 58'.
  • the upper and lower support elements 210 and 212 are fastened to the side walls 23 of the housing 14 with fasteners 216.
  • the element 58' could be formed with a horizontal living hinge at its lower end.
  • the portion below the living hinge could be connected to the screen 42 and act as the horizontal opaque screen 214.
  • the portion above the screen should be supported at least at its upper end by the upper support element 210.
  • the living hinge allows the element 58' to be moved up or down as described below.
  • the flame effect element 58' is preferably movable upwardly or downwardly relative to the screen 42 in the direction of arrows 218. This is accomplished by a height adjustment mechanism shown generally at 220.
  • the mechanism 220 includes a wire 222 connected to the top of the flame effect element 58'.
  • the wire 222 extends over a pin 224 and connects at its other end to the end of a height adjusting knob 226.
  • the height adjusting knob 226 protrudes from the front of the control unit 21 and is capable of being moved inwardly and outwardly relative to the front face of the control unit 21 in the direction of arrows 228.
  • the height adjusting knob 226 includes a plurality of teeth 230 that engage the front face 232 of the control unit 21 to permit the knob 226 to be secured inwardly or outwardly relative to the control unit 21 in one of a plurality of positions. It has been found that, by raising or lowering the flame effect element 58' by a predetermined amount, the perceived intensity of the simulated flame (both the brightness and size of the flame) effect can be increased or decreased. It is believed that this change in intensity is due to the different sized slits 66' defined in the flame effect element 58' being more or less visible to an observer positioned in front of the fireplace 12. It will be appreciated that alternative height adjustment mechanisms may be chosen. For instance, the knob 226, may be connected to the flame effect element 58' by a cam arrangement for mechanically moving the element 58' up or down.
  • the embodiment depicted in Fig. 13 further includes a simulated fire screen 234 covering the front face 232 of the transparent front panel 24.
  • the simulated fire screen 234 is preferably a woven mesh such as is known for blocking sparks for conventional fireplaces.
  • the woven mesh fire screen 234 is supported at its top and bottom ends by pins 236 protruding from the front wall 20 of the housing 14.
  • the simulated fire screen 234 can be defined directly on the transparent front panel 24 using a silk screen process or the like. It has been found that the simulated fire screen 234 reduces any glare or reflection that otherwise might be visible on the transparent front panel 24.
  • the screen 42" is generally transparent and has a partially reflecting surface 44" and a diffusing region 46" through its thickness.
  • the screen 42" is fabricated from a generally transparent but partially translucent material preferably having a slightly clouded or milky appearance through its thickness, such that light passing through the screen 42" is partially transmitted and partially diffused.
  • a satisfactory material is a polystyrene which is given a slightly milky appearance by the addition of an amount of a powdered white pigment, such as titanium dioxide.
  • the particle size of the pigment material is preferably microscopic so that a uniformly clouded or milky appearance is imparted to the diffusing region 46".
  • the amount of diffusion achieved by diffusing region 46" can be controlled by the amount of pigment added to the plastic composition of diffusing region 46".
  • the amount of diffusion achieved by diffusing member 46" should be such that a three-dimensional flame appears through the thickness of diffusing member 46", when viewed through partially reflecting member 44".
  • the improved screen 42" By diffusing the projected light of the simulated flame gradually through the thickness of the screen 42", the improved screen 42" gives an apparent thickness to the simulated flame, creating the illusion of a three dimensional flame. Furthermore, the improved screen 42" does not rely on a sandblasted or etched surface for its diffusing effect and therefore simplifies construction of assembly 10.
  • the screen 42"' is composed of a reflecting member 44"' and a diffusing member 46"'.
  • the reflecting member 44"' is fabricated from a partially transparent, partially reflective material, such as semi-silvered glass.
  • Diffusing-member 46"' is fabricated from a translucent material that partially transmits and partially diffuses light passing through the diffusing member 46"'.
  • Diffusing member 46"' may be made from a transparent material similar to that used in screen 4, and given an etched or sand-blasted diffusing surface, similar to diffusing surface 46.
  • translucent materials such as white polystyrene and polypropylene, have also been found to be suitable for diffusing member 46"'.
  • the thickness of a particular material used for diffusing member 46"' is chosen to allow diffusing member to be self-supporting and yet remain translucent enough that a flame effect is observable thereon through partially reflecting member 44"'.
  • Diffusing member 46"' does not necessarily embody the elements of diffusing screen 46", described above.
  • Diffusing member 46"' is not planar but rather curved along its length and width, the direction and amount of the curvature varying both vertically and horizontally along diffusing member 46"'.
  • Diffusing member 46"' may be conveniently formed by vacuum-forming a sheet of plastic to the desired shape.
  • the curvature, in the vertical direction, of the lower portion of diffusing member 46"' preferably follows the apparent location of fuel bed 26 in reflecting member 44"' (indicated at 26') to give the appearance that the simulated flames projected thereon are emanating from behind the reflection 26' of fuel bed 26.
  • the simulated flames projected on diffusing member 46"' would appear to be emanating from behind the reflection 26' of the simulated logs in fuel bed 26.
  • the curvature of the lower portion diffusing member 46"', in the horizontal direction along fuel bed 26, preferably tracks the particular angle at which a simulated log appears to lay in fuel bed 26 and follows the apparent location of the log in reflecting member 44"' (indicated at 26').
  • diffusing member 46"' is locally curved to be adjacent reflecting member 44"' to give the appearance that the simulated flames projected thereon are emanating from the embers between the simulated logs of fuel bed 26.
  • diffusing member 46"' rises vertically away from fuel bed 26, it preferably then curves generally closer to reflecting member 44"' to create the illusion that simulated flames projected thereon are licking over the logs of fuel bed 26.
  • the curvature of the upper portion of diffusing member 46"' may be appropriately chosen to further simulate the turbulent and random pattern of a real flame.
  • the vertical screen assembly 42"' adds an additional three-dimensional effect to the simulated flame.
  • the simulated flame appears to emanate from behind the simulated logs of fuel bed 26 and subsequently travel a three-dimensional path as it appears to rise from fuel bed 26, which more accurately simulates the appearance of a real wood fire.
  • a fourth embodiment of flame simulating assembly 10 is depicted.
  • the fourth embodiment does not include a blower 60 or a light-weight flame effect element 58 adapted to billow in the airflow of blower 60.
  • an improved and simpler flame effect element 58" is positioned behind and substantially across the full width of the screen 42" (a screen 42, as shown in Fig. 2, may equally be used), and in front of back wall 300.
  • the improved flame effect element 58" has a reflective surface 302 and generally has a flame-like profile, as depicted in Fig. 17.
  • Back wall 300 has a non-reflective surface.
  • the element 58" is a reflective decal applied to the surface of back wall 300.
  • flame effect element 58" is preferably colored with a bluish or greenish base portion 304 and a silver body 306. The transition between the blue portion 304 and the silver 306 is made gradually as the intensity of the blue color in portion 304 is faded into silver portion 306.
  • a single flicker element 62 rotating in direction 93, is positioned below the fuel bed 26 and generally in front of flame effect element 58". Adjacent and behind the flicker element 62 is positioned the light source 30. A light block 310 is provided to prevent light from light source 30 from reaching the flame effect element 58" directly. Hence, substantially only light reflected from flicker element 62 reaches flame effect element 58" and is subsequently reflected to, and transmitted through, screen 42". The apparent intensity of the simulated fire is proportionate to the speed at which flicker element 62 turns.
  • a variable speed control (not shown) for flicker element 62 may be provided to allow the user to alter the apparent intensity of the simulated fire.
  • the embodiment depicted in Fig. 15 may further include a transparent light randomizing panel 312, positioned between fuel bed 26 and flicker element 62.
  • the panel 312 is preferably made of glass or optical grade plastic and has non-planar surfaces 314 and 316.
  • the surfaces 314, 316 each have convex and concave regions which smoothly and contiguously blend into one another, resulting in a panel 312 having a varied thickness.
  • panel 312 acts as a complex lens, with regions of varied focal length, to light reflecting towards fuel bed 26 from flicker element 62, which is rotating in direction 93.
  • the effect of the complex lens-like characteristics of panel 312 is to intermittently reverse the direction of the reflected light from flicker element 62 as it crosses fuel bed 26. The result is that the simulated coals of fuel bed 26 appear to flicker in a random direction, and not -only in the direction of rotation of flicker element 62.
  • a further improved flame simulating assembly 10 with a simulated brick or rock fire wall 400 is depicted.
  • simulated fire wall patterns 402, 404 are applied to the inner surfaces of transparent front panel 24 and each of side walls 23, respectively.
  • Fire wall pattern 404 is applied by painting, or similar method, the pattern 404 on the inner surface of each side wall 23.
  • the pattern 402, as will be explained further below, is applied to the inner surface of transparent front panel 24 preferably by applying, using a silk-screening method, a series of small colored dots in a random pattern.
  • a light source 57 is provided beneath top wall 16 to light the pattern 402 to strengthen its reflection in surface 44.
  • light source 57 may be made to flicker randomly to simulate lighting on the simulated fire wall 400 by a real flame. The flicker in light source 57 could be achieved by integrated circuit control (not shown) of the electricity supplied to light source 57.
  • a preferred method of applying pattern 402 to the interior surface of front panel 24 is shown.
  • a random pattern of small dots 406 is applied to the inner surface of front panel 24.
  • the pattern of dots 406 has a constant dot density per square inch across the entire inner surface of front panel 24.
  • Dots 406 are preferably all the same size.
  • the dot density and a size of dots 406 are preferably chosen such that the presence of the dots 406 is not readily noticeable to an observer and the only effect imparted to the glass by the presence of dots 406 is a smoked or tinted appearance to transparent front panel 24. This effect is best achieved if the dots 406 are black in color.
  • the dots 406 are applied to the inner surface of panel 24 using a silk screening process.
  • a set of colored dots 408, of slightly smaller diameter than dots 406, is applied on top of dots 406.
  • Dots 408 are of slightly smaller diameter than, and located concentrically on, dots 406 to ensure that an observer positioned in front of assembly 10 will not notice the presence of dots 408 on the inner surface of transparent panel 24.
  • the dots 408 are also preferably applied using a silk screening process.
  • Dots 408 preferably appear in two colors, the two colors being the color of the simulated brick and the color of the simulated mortar between the simulated bricks. The color of a particular dot 408 is preferably chosen such that an overall brick and mortar pattern is formed on the inner surface of front panel 24.
  • the presence of the dots 406 and 408 on the inner surface of transparent front panel 24 is not readily noticed by an observer positioned in front of flame simulating assembly 10, however, the reflection of the colored dots 406 in reflecting surface 44 is readily apparent to the observer.
  • the simulated fire wall 400 appears to the observer to be behind fuel bed 26 at twice the distance of front panel 24 to the back of fuel bed 26.
  • Dots 406 are applied with a constant dot density per square inch to ensure that the smoked or tinted appearance which dots 406 impart to front panel 24 is constant across front panel 24.
  • the colors chosen for pattern 402 are also the colors used for pattern 404 on side walls 23.
  • the patterns 402 and 404 are positioned on the inner surface of front panel 24 and side walls 23, respectively, such that the apparent brick and mortar features of the two patterns intersect and mate in a realistic fashion.
  • simulated fire wall pattern 402 can also be achieved using alternate means.
  • a CLEAR FOCUSTM one-way vision display panel (not shown), as is described in U.S. Patent No. 5,525,177, may be used.
  • Simulated fire wall pattern 402 can be applied to the display surface of a CLEAR FOCUSTM panel which is, in turn, applied to the inner surface of front panel 24, such that an observer positioned in front of flame simulating assembly 10 cannot see pattern 402 directly but can view the reflection of pattern 402 in reflecting surface 44.
  • the transparent front panel 24 is replaced by a mesh front fire screen 24 (not shown), and the simulated fire wall pattern 402 is applied, with paint or similar means, to the inner surface of fire screen 24.
  • the pattern 402 will not be directly visible to an observer standing in front of flame simulating assembly 10. The observer will, however, be able to view the reflection of pattern 402 on reflecting surface 44.
  • simulated fire wall 400 could be used successfully with any fireplace having a front panel 24 and reflecting surface 44.
  • the inclusion of a simulated fire wall 400 would greatly enhance the appearance of a natural gas or propane fireplace.
  • the depth of a fireplace may be decreased as a space-saving measure, however, an observer will not notice that the depth of the fireplace has been decreased.
  • improved strips 82' for the upper flicker element 62 are shown. Since the sharp, straight lines of previous flicker element 62 gave sharp, straight reflections of light, which reduced the realism of the flame simulation, each improved strip 82' is given a series of curvilinear cuts 82c. The result is an improved upper flicker element 62 which reflects non-rectilinear patterns of light that are subsequently transmitted through the flame effect element 58. The non-linear nature of the reflected light patterns improves the realism of the flicker in the simulated flame by causing the flickering patterns of reflected light to appear more random and therefore more natural.

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  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
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  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Illuminated Signs And Luminous Advertising (AREA)
  • Non-Portable Lighting Devices Or Systems Thereof (AREA)
  • Baking, Grill, Roasting (AREA)
  • Looms (AREA)
  • Organic Insulating Materials (AREA)
  • Furnace Housings, Linings, Walls, And Ceilings (AREA)
  • Semiconductor Lasers (AREA)
  • Absorbent Articles And Supports Therefor (AREA)
  • Toys (AREA)
  • Thermotherapy And Cooling Therapy Devices (AREA)
  • Glass Compositions (AREA)
  • Control Of Resistance Heating (AREA)
  • Cosmetics (AREA)
  • Vessels, Lead-In Wires, Accessory Apparatuses For Cathode-Ray Tubes (AREA)
EP01128774A 1996-04-30 1997-04-30 Vorrichtung zum Simulieren von Flammen und Bauelemente dafür Expired - Lifetime EP1199525B1 (de)

Applications Claiming Priority (5)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CA 2175442 CA2175442C (en) 1996-04-30 1996-04-30 Flame simulating assembly
CA2175442 1996-04-30
US801469 1997-02-18
US08/801,469 US6047489A (en) 1996-05-17 1997-02-18 Flame simulating assembly and components therefor
EP97919227A EP0897514B1 (de) 1996-04-30 1997-04-30 Vorrichtung zum simulieren von flammen.

Related Parent Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP97919227A Division EP0897514B1 (de) 1996-04-30 1997-04-30 Vorrichtung zum simulieren von flammen.
EP97919227.5 Division 1997-11-06

Related Child Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP10166582.6 Division-Into 2010-06-18

Publications (3)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1199525A2 true EP1199525A2 (de) 2002-04-24
EP1199525A3 EP1199525A3 (de) 2002-08-07
EP1199525B1 EP1199525B1 (de) 2012-08-08

Family

ID=25678445

Family Applications (5)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP01128776A Expired - Lifetime EP1199527B1 (de) 1996-04-30 1997-04-30 Vorrichtung zum Simulieren von Flammen
EP01128773A Withdrawn EP1199524A3 (de) 1996-04-30 1997-04-30 Vorrichtung zum Simulieren von Flammen und Bauelemente dafür
EP01128774A Expired - Lifetime EP1199525B1 (de) 1996-04-30 1997-04-30 Vorrichtung zum Simulieren von Flammen und Bauelemente dafür
EP01128775A Expired - Lifetime EP1199526B1 (de) 1996-04-30 1997-04-30 Vorrichtung zum Simulieren von Flammen
EP97919227A Expired - Lifetime EP0897514B1 (de) 1996-04-30 1997-04-30 Vorrichtung zum simulieren von flammen.

Family Applications Before (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP01128776A Expired - Lifetime EP1199527B1 (de) 1996-04-30 1997-04-30 Vorrichtung zum Simulieren von Flammen
EP01128773A Withdrawn EP1199524A3 (de) 1996-04-30 1997-04-30 Vorrichtung zum Simulieren von Flammen und Bauelemente dafür

Family Applications After (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP01128775A Expired - Lifetime EP1199526B1 (de) 1996-04-30 1997-04-30 Vorrichtung zum Simulieren von Flammen
EP97919227A Expired - Lifetime EP0897514B1 (de) 1996-04-30 1997-04-30 Vorrichtung zum simulieren von flammen.

Country Status (9)

Country Link
EP (5) EP1199527B1 (de)
JP (1) JP3575768B2 (de)
CN (3) CN100339638C (de)
AT (3) ATE219229T1 (de)
AU (1) AU734355B2 (de)
DE (3) DE69731011T2 (de)
NZ (1) NZ333010A (de)
PL (1) PL183547B1 (de)
WO (1) WO1997041393A1 (de)

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US9068706B2 (en) 2012-03-07 2015-06-30 Winvic Sales Inc. Electronic luminary device with simulated flame
US10352517B2 (en) 2017-09-07 2019-07-16 Sterno Home Inc. Artificial candle with moveable projection screen position

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CA2357182C (en) * 2001-09-12 2009-01-06 Dimplex North America Limited Flame simulating assembly
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CA2441847A1 (en) 2003-01-20 2004-07-20 Kelly Stinson Flame simulating assembly
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JP4381741B2 (ja) * 2003-07-07 2009-12-09 有限会社カオスおもちゃ工房 模擬炎の生成装置およびその生成方法
US7770312B2 (en) 2004-01-20 2010-08-10 Dimplex North America Limited Flame stimulating assembly
US7673408B2 (en) 2004-01-20 2010-03-09 Dimplex North America Limited Flame simulating assembly
GB2418014B (en) * 2004-09-10 2009-05-06 Basic Holdings Apparatus for producing an optical effect
GB2418013B (en) * 2004-09-10 2008-09-24 Basic Holdings Apparatus for Producing an Optical Effect
GB2419182B (en) 2004-10-13 2009-06-03 Basic Holdings Apparatus for producing an optical effect or for simulating fires and simulated fireplaces including such apparatus
US20060101681A1 (en) * 2004-11-17 2006-05-18 Dimplex North America Limited Flame simulating assembly
CN2786739Y (zh) * 2004-12-06 2006-06-07 广东美的电器股份有限公司 用于壁炉式取暖器的火焰仿真装置
US20060188831A1 (en) * 2005-02-18 2006-08-24 Dimplex North America Limited Flame simulating assembly including an air filter
CN2816976Y (zh) * 2005-04-05 2006-09-13 广州市冠洋工贸有限公司 模拟火焰装置
CN100416626C (zh) * 2005-04-29 2008-09-03 朱克奇 电壁炉用的仿真燃柴装置
GB0605001D0 (en) 2006-03-13 2006-04-19 Basic Holdings Fuel and flame effect fires
CN2888579Y (zh) * 2006-02-09 2007-04-11 周军 电壁炉仿真模拟火焰装置
GB0607237D0 (en) * 2006-04-11 2006-05-17 Hacohen Josef Electric fires
GB0610273D0 (en) * 2006-05-24 2006-07-05 Poole Robert T Apparatus for providing a visual effect at a screen or other surface
GB2444076B (en) * 2006-11-24 2009-02-18 Basic Holdings An electric fire including a touch screen panel
GB2451617A (en) * 2007-05-26 2009-02-11 Domestic Fire Appliances Ltd Imaging apparatus for a fire
GB0722915D0 (en) * 2007-11-22 2008-01-02 Widney Leisure Ltd Improvements in or relating to fires, heating apparatus and the like
CN101285599B (zh) 2008-04-11 2012-03-14 陈力 一种电壁炉的火焰模拟装置
WO2009127167A1 (zh) * 2008-04-18 2009-10-22 Chen Li 电壁炉的火焰模拟装置以及电壁炉
CN101338916B (zh) 2008-06-16 2010-06-23 朱宏锋 内外炭床多层火焰电壁炉
CN101576273B (zh) * 2008-11-20 2011-04-06 朱宏锋 内外成像屏多层火焰电壁炉
CN101566360B (zh) * 2009-04-24 2011-06-15 义乌市安冬电器有限公司 反光式电壁炉
US8234803B2 (en) 2010-06-08 2012-08-07 Heat Surge, Llc Reflective device for an electric fireplace and an electric fireplace incorporating the same
TWI447686B (zh) * 2011-10-05 2014-08-01 Univ Asia 火焰影像裝置
US8671600B2 (en) 2012-03-29 2014-03-18 Dongguan Song Wei Electric Technology Co., Ltd. Electric fireplace
TR201908956T4 (tr) * 2016-03-16 2019-07-22 Glen Dimplex Americas Ltd Alev simülasyon düzeneği.
CN105737248A (zh) * 2016-04-15 2016-07-06 中山市涛盛电器有限公司 一种全息壁炉
CN105910060A (zh) * 2016-04-20 2016-08-31 广州铱星光电科技有限公司 一种电壁炉的火焰模拟装置
US10520149B2 (en) * 2017-06-20 2019-12-31 Living Style (B.V.I.) Limited Flame simulating assembly for simulated fireplaces including a light channeling shield
JP6921709B2 (ja) * 2017-10-24 2021-08-18 リンナイ株式会社 加熱調理器
NL2022380B1 (en) * 2019-01-11 2020-08-13 Kal Fire Beheer B V Image alignment for artificial fireplace
BE1029200B1 (nl) * 2021-03-15 2022-10-17 Bertonfire Kunstmatige haard

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Cited By (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US9068706B2 (en) 2012-03-07 2015-06-30 Winvic Sales Inc. Electronic luminary device with simulated flame
US9447937B2 (en) 2012-03-07 2016-09-20 Nii Northern International Inc. Electronic luminary device with simulated flame
US10024507B2 (en) 2012-03-07 2018-07-17 Sterno Home Inc. Electronic luminary device with simulated flame
US10352517B2 (en) 2017-09-07 2019-07-16 Sterno Home Inc. Artificial candle with moveable projection screen position
US10578264B2 (en) 2017-09-07 2020-03-03 Sterno Home Inc. Artificial candle with moveable projection screen position
US10788179B2 (en) 2017-09-07 2020-09-29 Sterno Home Inc. Artificial candle with moveable projection screen position
US10808899B2 (en) 2017-09-07 2020-10-20 Sterno Home Inc. Artificial candle with moveable projection screen position

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
DE69713322T2 (de) 2003-01-30
EP1199527B1 (de) 2004-09-15
DE69731011T2 (de) 2005-02-10
WO1997041393A1 (en) 1997-11-06
ATE278159T1 (de) 2004-10-15
CN1410703A (zh) 2003-04-16
CN1201110C (zh) 2005-05-11
ATE276488T1 (de) 2004-10-15
EP0897514B1 (de) 2002-06-12
CN1410705A (zh) 2003-04-16
DE69731011D1 (de) 2004-11-04
DE69713322D1 (de) 2002-07-18
AU734355B2 (en) 2001-06-14
JP3575768B2 (ja) 2004-10-13
AU2377797A (en) 1997-11-19
EP1199524A2 (de) 2002-04-24
PL183547B1 (pl) 2002-06-28
ATE219229T1 (de) 2002-06-15
EP1199526A2 (de) 2002-04-24
PL329604A1 (en) 1999-03-29
EP1199524A3 (de) 2002-07-17
DE69730757T2 (de) 2005-02-10
CN100339638C (zh) 2007-09-26
JP2001509873A (ja) 2001-07-24
EP1199527A2 (de) 2002-04-24
EP1199527A3 (de) 2002-07-17
EP0897514A1 (de) 1999-02-24
NZ333010A (en) 2000-05-26
EP1199526A3 (de) 2002-07-17
EP1199526B1 (de) 2004-09-29
CN1306209C (zh) 2007-03-21
CN1492180A (zh) 2004-04-28
EP1199525B1 (de) 2012-08-08
EP1199525A3 (de) 2002-08-07
DE69730757D1 (de) 2004-10-21

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