EP3575690A1

EP3575690A1 - Combustion effect apparatus

Info

Publication number: EP3575690A1
Application number: EP19177993.3A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Walter BLOODWORTH; Adam WILES
Original assignee: Be Modern Ltd
Current assignee: Be Modern Ltd
Priority date: 2018-06-01
Filing date: 2019-06-03
Publication date: 2019-12-04
Also published as: GB201817672D0; GB201809059D0

Abstract

Combustion effect apparatus (100) includes a light source arrangement (28), an elongate spindle (40) mounted for rotation, a plurality of reflector members (26) which project outwardly from the spindle (40), and a primary display screen (18). In use, the spindle (40) is rotated and light from the light source arrangement (28) is reflected by the moving reflector members (26) on to the primary display screen (18) to form moving combustion images visible to a viewer V located in front of the apparatus (100).

Description

Technical Field

The present invention relates to combustion effect apparatus, particularly but not exclusively, combustion effect apparatus for an electric fire.

Background

Modern houses are usually nowadays heated by central heating rather than open fires, but, increasingly, there has been a realisation that a fire with flames provides a cosy, warm, welcoming atmosphere. This has led to the development of electric fires which include combustion effect apparatus. The combustion effect apparatus produces a visual simulation of moving flames and can be operated on its own or in conjunction with heating elements.
In one known example, a combustion effect apparatus comprises a horizontal rotating spindle to which are mounted radially projecting reflectors in the form of fingers. Light from a light source falls onto the reflectors and is reflected to form broken, apparently random patterns on a display screen, the patterns being visible to a viewer located in front of the apparatus and giving the appearance of flames. However, although the simulation is quite effective, it lacks three dimensional depth, the light intensity lacks variation and the flame movement is only in one direction, upwards.
In this specification, the relative positional terms front, rear, above, below, etc are used in relation to a normal fire installation in which the front of the fire faces into and towards a room and below means towards a floor or ground.

Statements of Invention

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided combustion effect apparatus for an electric fire, the apparatus including:

a light source arrangement;
an elongate spindle mounted for rotation;
a plurality of reflector members which project outwardly from the spindle;
a primary display screen;
wherein, in use, the spindle is rotated and light from the light source arrangement is reflected by the moving reflector members on to the primary display screen to form moving combustion images visible to a viewer located in front of the apparatus.

Possibly, the combustion images comprise flame images, and/or glowing ember images, and/or smoke images.
Possibly, the light source arrangement includes one or more light sources. Possibly, the light source arrangement includes a plurality of light sources, which are located in different locations relative to the spindle. Possibly, the spindle has a length and rotates around a longitudinal axis. Possibly, the light sources are arranged at different angular orientations relative to the spindle axis and possibly at different radial distances relative to the spindle axis.
Possibly, the or each light source generates non-white light, multi coloured light and/or white light.
Possibly, when the or each light source generates non-white or multi coloured light, the combustion images formed comprise only or predominantly flame images and/or glowing ember images.
Possibly, when the or each light source generates white light, the combustion images comprise only or predominantly smoke images.
Possibly, the or each light source generates light which changes in colour over time, possibly in accordance with instructions from a controller.
Possibly, in use, the combustion images on the primary display screen move upwardly.
Possibly, the primary display screen is located forwardly of the spindle.
Possibly, the primary display screen is substantially planar. Possibly, the primary display screen is formed of a relatively dark glass, which may be a smoked glass and/or may be a light diffusing glass.
Possibly, the apparatus includes a secondary display screen, which may be different to the primary display screen. Possibly, in use, light from the light source arrangement is reflected by the moving reflector members to form combustion images on both the primary and the secondary display screens.
Possibly, in use, the combustion images on the secondary display screen move downwardly.
Possibly, the secondary display screen is substantially planar. Possibly, the plane of the secondary display screen is parallel to the plane of the primary display screen.
Possibly, the secondary display screen is spaced rearwardly from the primary display screen and may be located rearwardly of the spindle. Possibly, the primary display screen and the secondary display screen define an internal space therebetween.
Possibly, the spindle is located in the internal space, and may be located in a lower part of the internal space.
Possibly, the or one of the light sources comprises a primary flame effect light source.
Possibly, the primary flame effect light source generates non-white and/or multi coloured light and the combustion images generated only or predominantly comprise flame images and glowing ember images, and may predominantly comprise flame images.
Possibly, the primary display screen is a back lit screen and may be located forwardly of the primary flame effect light source.
Possibly, the secondary display screen is a front lit screen and may located rearwardly of the primary flame effect light source.
Possibly, both the primary flame effect light source and the spindle are located in the space and may be located in a lower part of the space.
Possibly, the primary flame effect light source is located forward of, and possibly below, the level of the spindle. Possibly, in use, the light from the primary flame effect light source is incident on the spindle at an angle to the vertical when viewed along the spindle axis. Possibly, the angle is no more than 20°, possibly no less than 13°, desirably no more than 18°, desirably no less than 15°, optimally no more than 17° and optimally no less than 16°.
Possibly, the apparatus includes an opaque mask, which is located between the primary display screen and the secondary display screen, above and possibly forward of the spindle. Possibly, the mask extends upwardly and may extend along the length of the spindle. Possibly, the mask has a lower edge which has an overall arcuate shape, being higher above the spindle in a mid-part of the spindle length and lower at its end parts. Possibly, the lower edge defines a plurality of flame profile cut-outs therealong.
Possibly, in use, the mask restricts the view of the combustion images seen by the viewer on the secondary display screen to the combustion images on a lower part of the secondary display screen.
Possibly, the apparatus includes a fuel bed display screen, which may be a back lit screen and may be located between the spindle and the primary display screen and may be located directly in front of the spindle and may be located directly in front of and above the primary flame effect light source. Possibly, the fuel bed display screen is coloured and shaped to represent a fuel bed. Possibly, the fuel bed display screen is light transmissive and may comprise lighter and darker coloured areas which may have different levels of light transmission.
Possibly, in use, the fuel bed display screen is illuminated by light reflected by the reflector members to form combustion images on the fuel bed display screen which may comprise flame images and/or glowing ember images and/or smoke images. Possibly, the combustion images on the fuel bed display screen move upwardly.
Possibly, in use, a proportion of the light reflected by the reflector members passes through the fuel bed display screen and comprises at least part of the moving combustion images on the primary display screen, which images may move upwardly.
Possibly, the apparatus includes a drive arrangement, which in use, causes rotation of the spindle. Possibly, the apparatus includes a controller, which may provide operating instructions to the light source arrangement and the drive arrangement.
Possibly, the apparatus includes a front fuel bed arrangement, which may be located in front of the primary display screen. The front fuel bed arrangement may be coloured and shaped to represent a fuel bed, comprised of wood, logs, coal etc.
Possibly, in use, a proportion of the light reflected by the reflector members passes through the fuel bed display screen and the primary display screen and forms moving combustion images on the front fuel bed arrangement.
Possibly, the or one of the light sources comprises a front fuel bed lower light source. Possibly, the front fuel bed front fuel bed lower light source is located in front of the primary display screen, and possibly below the level of the spindle. Possibly, the front fuel bed front fuel bed lower light source is located beneath the front fuel bed arrangement and may be arranged to direct light through the front fuel bed arrangement. Possibly, the light from the front fuel bed lower light source is directed upwardly and/or possibly backwardly, possibly towards the primary display screen and the reflector members.
Possibly, the front fuel bed lower light source generates combustion images on the front fuel bed arrangement and, possibly, on the primary display screen. Possibly, light from the front fuel bed lower light source is reflected by the moving reflector members on to the primary display screen to form moving combustion images visible to a viewer located in front of the apparatus.
Possibly, the front fuel bed lower light source generates non-white or multi coloured light and the combustion images generated comprise only or predominantly flame images and glowing ember images, and may predominantly comprise glowing ember images.
Possibly, the or one of the light sources comprises light source arrangement includes a front fuel bed upper light source. Possibly, the front fuel bed front fuel bed upper light source is located in front of the primary display screen, possibly above the level of the spindle. Possibly, the front fuel bed front fuel bed upper light source is located above the front fuel bed arrangement and may be arranged to direct light downwardly, possibly towards the front fuel bed arrangement, and/or possibly backwardly, possibly towards the primary display screen and the reflector members.
Possibly, the front fuel bed upper light source generates combustion images on the front fuel bed arrangement and/or possibly, on the primary display screen. Possibly, light from the front fuel bed upper light source is reflected by the moving reflector members on to the primary display screen to form moving combustion images visible to a viewer located in front of the apparatus.
Possibly, the front fuel bed upper light source generates non-white or multi coloured light and the combustion images generated comprise only or predominantly flame images and glowing ember images and may predominantly comprise glowing ember images.
Possibly, the or one of the light sources comprises an upper rear light source. Possibly, the upper rear light source is located behind the primary display screen, possibly above the level of the spindle, and may be located behind the mask, and may be arranged to direct light downwardly towards the reflector members.
Possibly, light from the upper rear light source is reflected by the moving reflector members on to the primary display screen to form moving combustion images visible to a viewer located in front of the apparatus. Possibly, the upper rear light source generates combustion images on the primary display screen, the secondary display screen and possibly the fuel bed display screen.
Possibly, the upper rear light source generates only white light and the combustion images generated only comprise smoke images.
Possibly, the or each light source may comprise one or more light emitting units and may comprise a plurality of light emitting units, which are spaced apart along a line or a strip. Each line or strip may extend partly or wholly along a length corresponding to the length of the spindle. Possibly, the spindle has a longitudinal axis, and the or each line or strip may extend along or parallel to the spindle axis. Possibly, the or each light source may comprise a plurality of the lines or strips.
Possibly, the controller is arranged to permit the apparatus to operate in a plurality of operating modes. Possibly, in each operating mode, the light sources operate in a different combination.
Possibly, in one operating mode, the spindle is rotating and light is generated by the primary flame effect light source, the front fuel bed lower light source and the front fuel bed upper light source.
Possibly, in another operating mode, the spindle is rotating and light is generated by the front fuel bed lower light source only.
Possibly, in yet another operating mode, the spindle is rotating and light is generated by the front fuel bed lower light source and the front fuel bed upper light source.
Possibly, in still yet another operating mode, the spindle is rotating and light is generated by the upper rear light source only.
Possibly, in again yet another operating mode, the spindle is rotating and light is generated by the front fuel bed lower light source and the upper rear light source.
Possibly, in a further operating mode, the spindle is rotating and light is generated by the front fuel bed lower light source, the front fuel bed upper light source and the upper rear light source.
Possibly, in a still further operating mode, the spindle is rotating and light is generated by the primary flame effect light source, the front fuel bed lower light source, the front fuel bed upper light source and the upper rear light source.
Possibly, the reflector members are in the form of fingers, strips, vanes or paddles.
Possibly, the reflector members are located along the length of the spindle at intermittent, possibly irregular, intervals and possibly at different, possibly irregular, radial angles.
Possibly, some or all of the reflector members are arranged in sets. Each set may comprise two reflector members. Each member of each set may extend generally oppositely radially outwardly from the spindle away from the other member of the same set. Possibly, the reflector members of each set subtend a radial angle therebetween, which may be an obtuse angle.
Each member of each set may be axially offset relative to the other member of the same set along the spindle longitudinal axis. Possibly, in one or some of the sets, one of the reflector members of the set axially overlaps one of the reflector members of an adjacent set. Possibly, in one or some of the sets, one of the reflector members of the set is separated axially by a clear space from the reflector members of an adjacent set.
Possibly, the apparatus includes a hood, which extends forwardly and above the primary display screen.
Possibly, the apparatus includes an opaque shield, which may be located in front of the primary flame effect light source, possibly to substantially prevent the viewer seeing light transmitted directly from the primary flame effect light source.
Possibly, the apparatus includes an enclosure, which may include a rear wall, side walls and a base. The primary display screen may comprise a front wall of the enclosure. The secondary display screen may comprise a front facing surface of the rear wall.
Possibly, the enclosure includes a transparent front window, which may be located forwardly of the primary display screen and may comprise a front wall of the enclosure.
Possibly, the apparatus comprises part of an electric fire.
According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided an electric fire, the fire including combustion effect apparatus, the apparatus including:

Possibly, the fire includes a heating device, which may be a fan heating device.
Possibly, the fire comprises a plurality of modules and may comprise a main combustion effect apparatus module, and possibly a front fuel bed arrangement module.
Possibly, the fire comprises a heater module, which may comprise the heating device.
Possibly, the controller includes a thermostat and may be arranged so that the mode of operation of the apparatus is dependent on the operation of the heating device and/or the thermostat.
According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of visually simulating a real fire, the method including providing combustion effect apparatus, the apparatus including:

Possibly, the combustion effect apparatus includes any of the features described in any of the preceding statements or following description. Possibly, the electric fire includes any of the features described in any of the preceding statements or following description. Possibly, the method includes any of the steps described in any of the preceding statements or following description.

Figures

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:-

Fig. 1 is a side cross sectional view (right side elevation) of an electric fire;
Fig. 2 is a perspective view of the electric fire not in use; and
Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the electric fire not in use, with replica fuel members and a primary display screen removed to show internal components;
Fig. 4 is a side cross sectional view (right side elevation) which is the same as that of Fig. 1, with simplified labelling just relating to light sources to aid understanding;
Fig. 5 is a front diagrammatic view of part of a spindle with reflector members; and
Fig. 6 is a side cross sectional view of another electric fire.

In the drawings, where multiple instances of the same or similar features exist, only a representative one or some of the instances of the features have been provided with numeric references for clarity.

Description

Figs. 1 to 5 show combustion effect apparatus 100, the apparatus 100 including a light source arrangement 28, an elongate spindle 40 mounted for rotation, a plurality of reflector members 26 which project outwardly from the spindle 40, and a primary display screen 18. In use, the spindle 40 is rotated and light from the light source arrangement 28 is reflected by the moving reflector members 26 on to the primary display screen 18 to form moving combustion images visible to a viewer V located in front of the apparatus 100.
The combustion images could comprise flame images, smoke images, and/or glowing ember images as will be described below.
The light source arrangement 28 could include one or more light sources 36, 38, 82, 83. In the example shown, the light source arrangement 28 includes a plurality of the light sources 36, 38, 82, 83, which are located in different locations relative to the spindle 40. The spindle 40 has a length and rotates around a longitudinal axis 74. The light sources 36, 38, 82, 83 are arranged at different angular orientations relative to the spindle axis 74 and at different radial distances relative to the spindle axis 74.
Advantageously, the plurality of light sources 36, 38, 82, 83 located in different locations relative to the spindle 40 means that light is incident on the spindle 40 from different directions and at different strengths increasing the variety and intensity of the reflections generated.
The or each light source 36, 38, 82, 83 generates non-white light, multi coloured light and/or white light.
When the or each light source 36, 38, 82, 83 generates non-white or multi coloured light, the combustion images formed comprise only or predominantly flame images and/or glowing ember images.
When the or each light source 36, 38, 82, 83 generates white light, the combustion images comprise only or predominantly smoke images.
The or each light source 36, 38, 82, 83 could generate light which changes in colour over time. The apparatus 100 includes a controller 88, which provides operating instructions to the light source arrangement 28. The or each light source 36, 38, 82, 83 could generate light which changes in colour over time in accordance with instructions from the controller 88.
The primary display screen 18 is a substantially planar, back lit screen and is located forwardly of the spindle 40. The primary display screen 18 could be a relatively dark glass so that, when not in use, the viewer V cannot substantially see any of the components of the apparatus 100 therebehind, but which, in use, permits a proportion of the light reflected by the reflector members 26 therethrough.
In some examples, the primary display screen 18 could be formed of smoked glass and/or a light diffusing glass.
The apparatus 100 includes a secondary display screen 102, which is different to and spaced rearwardly from the primary display screen 18. The secondary display screen 102 is a substantially planar, front lit screen. The plane of the secondary display screen 102 is parallel to the plane of the primary display screen 18.
The secondary display screen 102 is located rearwardly of the spindle 40 and the primary flame effect light source 38.
The primary display screen 18 and the secondary display screen 102 define an internal space 44 therebetween. The primary flame effect light source 38 and the spindle 40 are located in a lower part 46 of the space 44.
The apparatus 100 includes an enclosure 16. The enclosure 16 includes a rear wall 22, side walls 20 and a base 12. In this embodiment, the primary display screen 18 comprises a front wall of the enclosure 16. The secondary display screen 102 comprises a front facing surface of the rear wall 22. A front part 12A of the base 12 extends forwardly from the primary display screen 18, while the primary display screen 18, the internal space 44 and the rear wall 22 extend upwardly from a rear part 12B of the base 12.
In the example shown, the apparatus 100 comprises part of an electric fire 10. The fire 10 includes a fan heating device 24 which is located in an upper part of the enclosure 16.
One of the light sources of the light source arrangement 28 includes a primary flame effect light source 38 (also referred to herein and on Figs. 1 and 4 as LS1). In one example, the primary flame effect light source 38 generates non-white or multi coloured light and the combustion images generated comprise only or predominantly flame images and glowing ember images, and in one particular example, predominantly comprise flame images.
The primary flame effect light source 38 is located behind the primary display screen 18, forward of and below the level of the spindle 40. In use, the light from the primary flame effect light source 38 is incident on the spindle 40 at an angle 54 to the vertical when viewed along the spindle axis 74, as indicated by arrow L1 in Fig. 1. In one example, the angle 54 could be no more than 20° and no less than 13°. In another example, the angle 54 could desirably be no more than 18° and no less than 15°. In a further example, the angle 54 could optimally be no more than 17° and no less than 16°.
The reflector members 26 could be in the form of fingers, strips, vanes or paddles. In the example shown and as most clearly shown in Fig. 5, the reflector members 26 are in the form of vanes.
As shown in Fig. 5, the reflector members 26 are located along the length of the spindle 40 at intermittent intervals and at different, irregular radial angles. In some examples, the intervals are regular. In other examples, the intervals are irregular, or appear to be irregular because of the method of construction.
In one example, some or all of the reflector members 26 could be arranged in sets 56, each set 56 comprising two reflector members 26, each member 26 of each set 56 extending generally oppositely radially outwardly from the spindle 40 away from the other member 26 of the same set 56.
Each member 26 of each set 56 could be axially offset relative to the other member 26 of the same set 56 along the spindle longitudinal axis 74, as shown in Fig. 5 by the members 26 of the sets 56A, 56B. In one or some of the sets 56, one or both of the reflector members 26 of the set could axially overlap one of the reflector members 26 of an adjacent set 56. In one or some of the sets 56, one of the reflector members 26 of the set 56 is separated axially by a clear space 72 from the reflector members 26 of an adjacent set 56.
Referring to Fig. 1, the reflector members 26 of one representative set 56 are shown in end section, looking along the axis of the spindle 40. The reflector members 26 subtend a radial angle 58 therebetween, which in one example, could be an obtuse angle.
The spindle 40 could be formed of a plurality of twisted wires and the reflector members 26 could be formed of relatively thin reflective material which is clamped between the twisted wires, which induces a twist in the reflector members 26. The reflector members 26 could also be crinkled to enhance random reflectivity.
In one example, the reflector members 26 could be formed of a metallised or metal coated plastics material.
The mounting of the reflector members 26 at intermittent intervals, irregular radial angles, with a twist and with crinkles all contribute to produce reflected images and hence combustion effects which appear random and unpredictable.
The apparatus 100 includes a drive arrangement 86, which in use, causes rotation of the spindle 40 and could comprise a motor 90 (which could be electrically powered) connected to the spindle 40 by a drive connection 92. The controller 88 provides operating instructions to the drive arrangement 86.
The apparatus 100 includes a fuel bed display screen 30, which is a back lit screen and is located between the spindle 40 and the primary display screen 18 and is located directly in front of the spindle 40 and directly in front of and above the primary flame effect light source 38.
The fuel bed display screen 30 could be formed by moulding, and could be formed of a settable material. In one example, the fuel bed display screen 30 could be formed of fibreglass.
The fuel bed display screen 30 could be coloured and shaped to represent a fuel bed, comprised of wood, logs, coal etc. The fuel bed display screen 30 is light transmissive and comprises lighter and darker coloured areas which have different levels of light transmission.
The apparatus 100 includes a front fuel bed arrangement 14, which is located on the front part 12A of the base 12 in front of the primary display screen 18. The front fuel bed arrangement 14 comprises a light transmissive front fuel bed screen 62 and replica fuel members 68 which are located on the front fuel bed screen 62 and which are coloured and shaped to represent pieces of fuel such as wood, logs, coal etc.
One of the light sources of the light source arrangement 28 comprises a front fuel bed lower light source 36 (also referred to herein and on Figs. 1 and 4 as LS2), which is located in front of the primary display screen 18, below the level of the spindle 40, beneath the front fuel bed arrangement 14. The front fuel bed front fuel bed lower light source 36 is arranged to direct light forwardly, backwardly and upwardly through the front fuel bed arrangement 14 as will be described below.
In one example, the front fuel bed lower light source 36 generates non-white or multi coloured light and the combustion images generated comprise only or predominantly flame images and glowing ember images, and, in one particular example, predominantly comprise glowing ember images.
One of the light sources of the light source arrangement 28 includes a front fuel bed upper light source 82 (also referred to herein and on Figs. 1 and 4 as LS3) which is located above the front fuel bed arrangement 14 in an upper part of the fire 10, in front of the primary display screen 18 and above the level of the spindle 40. In the example shown, the upper light source 82 is located in an upper part of the fire 10 and is arranged to illuminate, in use, the front fuel bed arrangement 14 from above. The front fuel bed upper light source 82 is also arranged to direct light forwardly, downwardly and backwardly as will be described below.
In one example, the front fuel bed upper light source 82 generates non-white or multi coloured light and the combustion images generated comprise only or predominantly flame images and glowing ember images, and, in one particular example, predominantly comprise glowing ember images.
One of the light sources of the light source arrangement 28 includes an upper rear light source 84 (also referred to herein and on Figs. 1 and 4 as LS4), which is located behind the primary display screen 18, above the spindle 40 and behind the mask 34 in the mask cavity 64, and is arranged to direct light downwardly towards the reflector members 26 as indicated by arrow L4.
In one example, the upper rear light source 84 generates only white light and the combustion images generated only comprise smoke images.
In another example, the upper rear light source 84 could generate non-white or multi-coloured light, in addition to the white light and the combustion images generated could comprise flame images, glowing ember images and smoke images.
Each of the primary flame effect light source 38, the front fuel bed lower light source 36, the front fuel bed upper light source 82 and the upper rear light source 84 comprises a plurality of light emitting units 60. In each case, the light emitting units 60 are spaced apart along a line or strip 98 extending along or parallel to the spindle axis 74, along a length corresponding to the length occupied by the reflector members 26 along the spindle 40. The light emitting units 60 could be located intermittently along the length, with regular or irregular spacing therebetween.
In the side view shown in Fig. 1, each of the lines or strips 98 are shown as one single light emitting unit 60, but it will be realised that the each unit 60 shown in the drawing represents a line or strip 98 comprising multiple light emitting units 60 extending longitudinally, parallel to the spindle axis 74.
In some examples, the or each of the primary flame effect light source 38, the front fuel bed lower light source 36, the front fuel bed upper light source 82 and the upper rear light source 84 could comprise a plurality of the lines or strips 98.
In the example shown, the front fuel bed lower light source 36 comprises four lines or strips 98A, 98B, 98C 98D and the other light sources 38, 82, 84 each comprise only a single line or strip 98.
Each of the light emitting units 60 could comprise one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs).
The apparatus 100 includes a hood 48, which extends forwardly and above the primary display screen 18. In the example shown, the hood 48 comprises part of the enclosure 16.
The apparatus 100 includes an opaque mask 34, which is located between the primary display screen 18 and the secondary display screen 102, above and just slightly forward of the spindle 40. The mask 34 extends upwardly and along the length of the spindle 40. The mask 34 has a lower edge 50 which has an overall arcuate shape, being higher above the spindle 40 in a mid-part of the spindle length and lower at its end parts. The lower edge 50 defines a plurality of flame profile cut-outs 52 therealong.
The mask 34 and the rear wall 22 define a mask cavity 64 therebetween which is closed at an upper end by a mask cavity end wall 66. This ensures that, in use, no light leaks from above and behind the mask 34.
The apparatus 100 includes an opaque shield 32, which is located in front of the primary flame effect light source 38, to substantially prevent the viewer seeing light transmitted directly from the primary flame effect light source 38.
The spindle 40 is mounted to the rear wall 22 by brackets 42. It will be realised that other components such as the mask 34 and the fuel bed display screen 30 are held in position by brackets (not shown) and the apparatus 100 necessarily includes circuitry (not shown) for providing electrical connections between the controller 88, the motor 90 and the light source arrangement 28.
The fire 10 could comprise a plurality of modules 76, 78, 80 to permit the efficient and cost effective provision of a range of format sizes. In the example shown, the fire 10 comprises a main combustion effect apparatus module 80, a heater module 76 comprising the heating device 24 and a front fuel bed arrangement module 78 comprising the front fuel bed arrangement 14.
Each of the modules 76, 78, 80 comprises a sub enclosure 16A, 16B, 16C respectively which are assembled together to form the enclosure 16. The fire 10 could be provided in a variety of lengths and heights and the modules 76, 78, 80 permit this variety to be provided economically and efficiently with reduced stock holding and reduced manufacturing cost.
Examples of the variety of lengths and heights of the fire 10 could include portrait and landscape versions of the combustion effect apparatus module 80. In the portrait versions, the primary display screen 18 of the combustion effect apparatus module 80 has a height greater than its length; in the landscape versions, the primary display screen 18 of the combustion effect apparatus module 80 has a length greater than its height. In the modular construction arrangement, the main combustion effect apparatus module 80 is provided in both height and length variants, while the heater module 76 and the front fuel bed arrangement module 78 need only be provided in length variants, thus reducing stock holding of these latter modules 76, 78.

In use

In use, power is provided to the motor 90 to rotate the spindle 40 and to power the light emitting units 60. The controller 88 provides operating instructions to the light source arrangement 28 and the drive arrangement 86. The controller 88 is arranged to permit the apparatus 100 to operate in a plurality of operating modes. In each operating mode, the light sources 36, 38, 82, 84 operate in a different combination, as will be described below.
In the description below and in Figs. 1 and 4, the primary flame effect light source 38, the front fuel bed lower light source 36, the front fuel bed upper light source 82 and the upper rear light source 84 are referred to for brevity as follows:

LS1 38 - the primary flame effect light source 38
LS2 36 - the front fuel bed lower light source 36
LS3 82 - the front fuel bed upper light source 82
LS4 84 - the upper rear light source 84

Independent modes of operation

LS1 38

In a first example, the light source arrangement 28 could comprise just LS1 38, or the apparatus 100 could be operated in a mode in which only LS1 38 operates.
Referring to Figs. 1 and 4, LS1 38 generates light which is incident onto the reflector members 26 as indicated by arrow L1.
The rotation direction of the spindle 40 is shown by arrow Z in Fig. 1. The view in Fig. 1 shows the right side elevation of the apparatus 100. In this view, with the primary display screen 18 to the left of the spindle 40 and the secondary display screen 102 to the right, the rotation direction is clockwise. The spindle 40 rotates so that the reflector members 26 pass, in sequence, under the spindle 40, upwardly in front of the spindle 40, over the top of the spindle 40 and downwardly behind the spindle 40.
As the reflector members 26 rotate, the light from LS1 38 is reflected by the moving reflector members 26 to form combustion images on both the primary and the secondary display screens 18, 102, as indicated by arrows R1 and R5 in Figs. 1 and 4.
The configuration of LS1 38, the spindle 40, the reflector members 26, the primary display screen 18 and the secondary display screen 102 means that, in use, the combustion images on the primary display screen 18 move upwardly as indicated by arrow U in Fig. 1 and the combustion images on the secondary display screen 102 move downwardly as indicated by arrow D in Fig. 1.
The upwardly moving combustion images on the primary display screen 18 become larger, fainter, faster and more diffuse as they move upwards. In contrast, the downwardly moving combustion images on the secondary display screen 102 become smaller, more intense and slower as they move downwards.
This provides the advantage that the combustion effect viewed by the viewer V has three dimensional depth and the flame movement is in two directions, both upwards and downwards, as in a real fire. Also, the variation of intensity of the light is increased by use of two screens in comparison with conventional arrangements having only one screen.
The mask 34 restricts the view of the combustion images seen by the viewer on the secondary display screen 102 to the combustion images on the lower part of the secondary display screen 102.
This provides the advantage that the combustion images on the secondary display screen 102 are limited to the lower part, again adding to the advantage that the combustion effects are more concentrated and intense at the lower parts, as in a real fire.
The mask 34 also means that the combustion images on the secondary display screen 102 are seen through the shape of the flame profile cut-outs 52 of the lower edge 50.
In addition, the reflector members 26 are arranged so that a proportion of the light from LS1 38 can pass by the spindle 40 without being reflected by the reflector members 26 and fall directly on the secondary display screen 102, causing combustion images comprising relatively bright, short lived patches of light to be seen by the viewer at the back of the fire adding further depth and realism to the combustion effect, as indicated by arrows L1A in Figs. 1 and 4.
The fuel bed display screen 30 is illuminated by light reflected by the reflector members 26 to form combustion images comprising light patterns on the fuel bed display screen 30 which give the appearance of combustion effects such as flames, glowing embers and/or smoke moving across a glowing fuel bed, as indicated by arrows R2, R3 and R4. The light patterns on the fuel bed display screen 30 move upwardly.
This provides the advantage that the combustion effect viewed by the viewer V has increased three-dimensional depth and interest.
A proportion of the light reflected by the reflector members 26 passes through the fuel bed display screen 30 and forms combustion images comprising moving light patterns on a lower part of the primary display screen 18, as indicated by arrows R2, R3 and R4, which patterns move upwardly.
Again, this provides the advantage that the combustion effect viewed by the viewer V has increased three-dimensional depth and interest.
A proportion of the light reflected by the reflector members 26 passes through the fuel bed display screen 30 and the primary display screen 18 and forms combustion images comprising moving patterns on the replica fuel members 68 of the front fuel bed arrangement 14, as indicated by arrow R2.
This, again, provides the advantage that the combustion effect viewed by the viewer V has increased three-dimensional depth and interest.

LS2 36

In a second example, the light source arrangement 28 could comprise just LS2 36, or the apparatus 100 could be operated in a mode in which only LS2 36 operates.
Light from LS2 36 is transmitted upwardly, forwardly and backwardly, as indicated by arrows L2, on to and through the front fuel bed screen 62, and onto and through the replica fuel members 68. Some of the light from LS2 36 is reflected by the front face of the primary display screen 18; some is transmitted through the primary display screen 18 and falls onto the front face of the fuel bed display screen 30; some is transmitted through the fuel bed display screen 30 and is reflected by the moving reflector members 26 on to the primary display screen 18, the fuel bed display screen 30 and the secondary display screen 102 to form moving combustion images visible to a viewer located in front of the apparatus 10; and some falls directly onto the secondary display screen 102.
Thus, LS2 36 generates combustion images on the front fuel bed arrangement 14, the fuel bed display screen 30, the primary display screen 18 and the secondary display screen 102.
The light from LS2 36 reflected by the reflector members 26 is reflected in a similar fashion to that described above for LS1 38, although the light is weaker since LS2 36 is further away from the reflector members 26 and the light from LS2 36 is obstructed or reflected by the front fuel bed screen 62, the replica fuel members 68, the primary display screen 18 and the fuel bed display screen 30. Also, the light from LS2 36 falls onto the reflector members 26 at a different incident angle 54 to the light from LS1 38.
The Applicant has surprisingly found that, with the configuration of the apparatus 100 (in particular the location of the spindle 40 between the primary display screen 18 and the secondary display screen 102, the rotation direction of the spindle 40, and the location of the fuel bed display screen 30 behind the primary display screen 18 and in front of the spindle 40), operating LS2 36 on its own with the spindle 40 rotating produces a realistic effect of a slumbering or smouldering fire in which fuel embers glow, with the occasional appearance of flame. This was a surprise because it was previously thought that the amount of light reaching the reflector members would be too low to produce a visible effect. However, this was found not to be the case.
Advantageously, the arrangement of the multiple lines or strips 98A, 98B, 98C 98D increases the variety of incident angles and light strengths, increasing the variety of the combustion effects.

LS3 82

In a third example, the light source arrangement 28 could comprise just LS3 82, or the apparatus 100 could be operated in a mode in which only LS3 82 operates.
Light from LS3 82 is transmitted downwardly, forwardly and backwardly as indicated by arrows L3, on to the replica fuel members 68. Some of this light is then reflected backwards towards the primary display screen 18, the fuel bed display screen 30, the reflector members 26 and the secondary display screen 102. Also, some of the light from LS3 82 is transmitted directly from LS3 82 to the primary display screen 18, the fuel bed display screen 30 and the reflector members 26. Some of the direct and reflected light from LS3 82 is reflected forwards towards the viewer V by the primary display screen 18; some is transmitted through the primary display screen 18 and is reflected forwards towards the viewer V by the fuel bed display screen 30; and some is transmitted through the fuel bed display screen 30 and is reflected by the moving reflector members 26 on to the primary display screen 18, the fuel bed display screen 30 and the secondary display screen 102 to form moving combustion images visible to a viewer located in front of the apparatus 10. However, because of the obstruction of the mask 34, little if any of the direct light from LS3 82 will fall onto the secondary display screen 102.
Thus, LS3 82 generates combustion images on the front fuel bed arrangement 14, the fuel bed display screen 30, the primary display screen 18 and the secondary display screen 102.
The light from LS3 82 reflected by the reflector members 26 is reflected in a similar fashion to that described above for LS1 38, although the light is weaker since LS3 82 is further away from the reflector members 26 and the light from LS3 82 is obstructed or reflected by the replica fuel members 68, the primary display screen 18 and the fuel bed display screen 30. Also, the light from LS2 36 falls onto the reflector members 26 at a different incident angle 54 to the light from LS1 38.
However, as in the case of LS2 36, the Applicant has surprisingly found that, with the configuration of the apparatus 100 (in particular the location of the spindle 40 between the primary display screen 18 and the secondary display screen 102, the rotation direction of the spindle 40, and the location of the fuel bed display screen 30 behind the primary display screen 18 and in front of the spindle 40), operating LS3 82 on its own with the spindle 40 rotating produces a realistic effect of a slumbering or smouldering fire in which fuel embers glow, with the occasional appearance of flame.

LS4 84

In a fourth example, the light source arrangement 28 could comprise just LS4 84, or the apparatus 100 could be operated in a mode in which only LS4 84 operates.
Light from LS4 84 is transmitted downwardly on to the reflector members 26, and is reflected by the moving reflector members 26 on to the primary display screen 18, the fuel bed display screen 30 and the secondary display screen 102 to form moving combustion images visible to a viewer located in front of the apparatus 10. Some of the light from LS4 84 also falls directly onto the secondary display screen 102.
Thus, LS4 84 generates combustion images on the front fuel bed arrangement 14, the fuel bed display screen 30, the primary display screen 18 and the secondary display screen 102.
In the example described in which LS4 84 generates only or predominantly white light, the combustion images generated by LS4 84 could comprise smoke images, and this mode comprises a smoke effect mode.
The light from LS4 84 reflected by the reflector members 26 is reflected in a similar fashion to that described above for LS1 38. although the light is at a different incident angle 54 to the light from LS1 38.
The Applicant has surprisingly found that with the configuration of the apparatus 100 (in particular the location of the spindle 40 between the primary display screen 18 and the secondary display screen 102, and the location of the fuel bed display screen 30 behind the primary display screen 18 and in front of the spindle 40), operating LS4 84 on its own with the spindle 40 rotating produces a realistic effect of a smoking fire, with some of the white light reflected onto the primary display screen 18, some onto the secondary display screen 102, some onto the fuel bed display screen 30 and some through the fuel bed display screen 30 and onto the lower part of the primary display screen 18 and onto the replica fuel members 68.

Combination modes of operation

In addition to the independent modes of operation described above, the controller 88 could be arranged to permit the apparatus 100 to operate in a plurality of combination operating modes, some of which are set out in Table 1 below. In all of these modes, the spindle 40 is rotating.

Mode	Mode Name	Light Sources Operating
C1	Normal	LS1 38, LS2 36, LS3 82
C2	Normal with smoke effect	LS1 38, LS2 36, LS3 82, LS4 84
C3	Slumbering/smouldering	LS2 36, LS3 82
C4	Slumbering/smouldering with smoke effect	LS2 36, LS4 84
C5	Slumbering/smouldering with smoke effect	LS2 36, LS3 82, LS4 84
Table 1 Combination Modes of Operation

In the combination modes set out above, the individual modes specified will each operate as described previously. Advantageously, the use of a variety of light sources, positioned in different angular locations around the spindle 40 and at different radial distances from the spindle 40 (which produces light of different incident angles and of different strengths at the spindle 40), all contributes to the production of an overall combustion effect with three dimensional depth, variety and interest.
In one example, LS1 38 primarily provides a flame effect; LS2 36 and LS3 82 individually or in combination primarily provide a slumbering/smouldering effect; and LS4 84 primarily provides a smoke effect. However, it has been found advantageously that each mode could provide some or all of the effects desired to a greater or lesser extent.
Advantageously, the apparatus 100 permits the user to vary the effect by selection of different light sources and light source combinations.
It is a feature of the invention that the Applicant has surprisingly found that the use of white light provides a smoke effect, which can be utilised on its own or as part of an overall combustion effect.
It is to be realised that the apparatus 100 permits other combination modes not set out above. Only the most commonly used modes have been described above.
For each light source 36, 38, 82, 84, one, some or all of the light emitting units 60 comprising the respective light source 36, 38, 82, 84 could be arranged (for example, by the controller 88) to flicker, fade, change colour, go off, come on etc, and could be arranged to do so separately, independently, randomly or according to a predetermined pattern, adding to the realism of the combustion effects provided by the apparatus 100.
The controller 88 could be programmed to provide a sequence of different operational modes, which could include any one or combination of the individual and combination modes set out above. In the sequence, the controller 88 could change or vary the mode of operation automatically. For example, following a period of time (eg several hours) of normal mode operation (eg C1 or C2), the controller 88 could be arranged to move the apparatus 100 to one of the slumbering modes (eg individual mode LS2 36, individual mode LS3 82, C3, C4 or C5). Following a further period of time, the controller 88 could be arranged to move the apparatus 100 to the smoke effect mode (individual mode LS4 84). Thus the apparatus 100 permits the production of a combustion effect which changes over time in a similar way to a real fire.
Alternatively, the apparatus 100 could include a manual control input (not shown) which permits a user to select the mode of operation manually.
Further realism, variety and interest could be provided by varying other operating parameters, such as the speed of rotation of the spindle 40, the brightness of the light sources and the colour of the light sources. In one example, in the normal mode C1, the spindle 40 could initially rotate relatively quickly, the light sources 36, 38, 82 could be relatively bright and the colours of the light sources 36, 38, 82 could be mostly yellow and orange, to give the effect of a newly lit, vigorous fire. After a period of time, the spindle 40 could slow down, the light sources 36, 38, 82 could be dimmed somewhat and the colours of the light sources 36, 38, 82 could be mostly orange, red and purple to give the effect of a fire which has been burning for some time.
In other examples, the controller 88 could include a thermostat (not shown) and the operation of the apparatus 100 could be linked to or be determined by the thermostat (which could be located in a wall mounted or hand held housing) which senses ambient room temperature against a target temperature and controls the operation of the heating device 24 accordingly. In one example, if the ambient temperature is low relative to the target temperature, the apparatus 100 could operate in one of the normal modes C1 or C2 and the heating device 24 could provide heat at a high output rate. If the ambient temperature is similar to or the same as the target temperature, then the apparatus 100 could operate in one of the slumbering/smouldering modes C3, C4, C5 or the smoke effect mode and the heating device 24 could provide heat at a low output. If the ambient temperature is higher than the target temperature, then the apparatus 100 could operate in one of the slumbering/smouldering modes C3, C4, C5 or the smoke effect mode and the heating device 24 could be switched off. Thus, the controller 88 could be arranged to operate the apparatus 100 in a mode dependent on the operation of the heating device 24 and/or the thermostat.

Second Embodiment

Fig. 6 shows another embodiment of the invention, many features of which are similar to those already described in relation to the embodiment of Figs. 1 to 5. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, the following embodiment will only be described in so far as it differs from the embodiment already described. Where features are the same or similar, the same reference numerals have been used and the features will not be described again.
Fig. 6 shows another electric fire 210 comprising a combustion effect apparatus 100. In this embodiment, the enclosure 16 is deeper (front to back) than in the previous embodiment and the enclosure 16 includes a transparent front window 70 which is located forwardly of the front fuel bed arrangement 14 and the upper light source 82 and extends substantially the full height and width of the primary display screen 18 and the internal space 44. In this embodiment, the front window 70 comprises the front wall of the fire 210. Advantageously, the window 70 prevents touching of or tampering with the front fuel bed arrangement 14 by unauthorised persons.

Other Modifications

Various other modifications could be made without departing from the scope of the invention. The combustion effect apparatus and the various components thereof could be of any suitable size and shape, and could be formed of any suitable material (within the scope of the specific definitions herein).
The combustion effect apparatus 100 could be used without a heating device and not as part of a fire, for example, for decorative purposes only, or as part of another appliance, apparatus, installation, piece of furniture etc.
In one embodiment, the apparatus 100 could be provided with multiple light sources, but without the secondary display screen 102.
In another embodiment, the apparatus 100 could be provided with any one or combination of the light sources described. The light sources could be located differently to those described.
The combustion effect apparatus 100 could be used as part of any type of fire eg a stove or other heating appliance.
The reflector members 26 could be different in size and shape to those shown and could be arranged differently on the spindle 40. The sets 56 could comprise different numbers of reflector members 26 from those shown and could comprise differing numbers of reflector members 26.
In one further example, the upper rear light source 84 could comprise only coloured or multi coloured light emitting units (not white light emitting units) and could generate only flame and/or glowing ember images.
Any of the features or steps of any of the embodiments shown or described could be combined in any suitable way, within the scope of the overall disclosure of this document.
There is thus provided combustion effect apparatus with a number of advantages over conventional arrangements. In particular, the apparatus provides combustion effects having increased three dimensional depth, greater variation of intensity and greater variation of movement in comparison with conventional arrangements.

Claims

A combustion effect apparatus for an electric fire, the apparatus including:
a light source arrangement;

an elongate spindle mounted for rotation, wherein the spindle has a length and in use rotates around a longitudinal axis;

a plurality of reflector members which project outwardly from the spindle;

a primary display screen;

wherein, in use, the spindle is rotated and light from the light source arrangement is reflected by the moving reflector members on to the primary display screen to form moving combustion images visible to a viewer located in front of the apparatus;

wherein, the light source arrangement includes one or more light sources.
Apparatus according to claim 1, in which the primary display screen is located forwardly of the spindle and, in use, the combustion images on the primary display screen move upwardly.
Apparatus according to claims 1 or 2, in which the or one of the light sources comprises a primary flame effect light source, which is located behind the primary display screen and in front of the spindle and possibly below the level of the spindle, and, wherein, in use, light from the primary flame effect light source is incident on the spindle at an angle to the vertical when viewed along the spindle axis, wherein the angle may be no more than 20°, possibly no less than 13°, desirably no more than 18°, desirably no less than 15°, optimally no more than 17° and optimally no less than 16°.
Apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 3, in which the apparatus includes a secondary display screen, which is spaced rearwardly from the primary display screen and located rearwardly of the spindle and wherein, in use, light from the light source arrangement is reflected by the moving reflector members to form combustion images on both the primary and the secondary display screens and wherein, in use, the combustion images on the secondary display screen move downwardly.
Apparatus according to claim 4, in which the apparatus includes an opaque mask, which is located between the primary display screen and the secondary display screen and above the spindle, wherein, in use, the mask restricts the view of the combustion images seen by the viewer on the secondary display screen to the combustion images on a lower part of the secondary display screen.
Apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, in which the apparatus includes a fuel bed display screen, which is located between the spindle and the primary display screen; wherein the fuel bed display screen is coloured and shaped to represent a fuel bed; wherein the fuel bed display screen is light transmissive and comprises lighter and darker coloured areas which have different levels of light transmission; and wherein, in use, the fuel bed display screen is illuminated by light reflected by the reflector members to form moving combustion images on the fuel bed display screen.
Apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, in which the apparatus includes a front fuel bed arrangement, which is located in front of the primary display screen; wherein the front fuel bed arrangement is coloured and shaped to represent a fuel bed, comprised of wood, logs, coal etc; and wherein, in use, light reflected by the reflector members forms moving combustion images on the front fuel bed arrangement.
Apparatus according to claim 7, in which the or one of the light sources comprises a front fuel bed lower light source which is located in front of the primary display screen below the level of the spindle and beneath the front fuel bed arrangement, and is arranged to direct light upwardly through the front fuel bed arrangement and backwardly towards the primary display screen and the reflector members, wherein the front fuel bed lower light source generates combustion images on the front fuel bed arrangement and on the primary display screen and, possibly, wherein light from the front fuel bed lower light source is reflected by the moving reflector members on to the primary display screen to form moving combustion images visible to a viewer located in front of the apparatus.
Apparatus according to claims 7 or 8, in which the or one of the light sources includes a front fuel bed upper light source, which is located in front of the primary display screen above the level of the spindle and is arranged to direct light downwardly towards the front fuel bed arrangement and backwardly, towards the primary display screen and the reflector members, wherein the front fuel bed upper light source generates combustion images on the front fuel bed arrangement and, possibly, wherein, light from the front fuel bed upper light source is reflected by the moving reflector members on to the primary display screen to form moving combustion images visible to a viewer located in front of the apparatus.
Apparatus according to claim 4 or any claim dependent thereon, in which the or one of the light sources comprises an upper rear light source which is located behind the primary display screen above the level of the spindle and, possibly, behind the mask, and is arranged to direct light downwardly towards the reflector members and wherein, in use, light from the upper rear light source is reflected by the moving reflector members on to the primary display screen to form moving combustion images visible to a viewer located in front of the apparatus and wherein, possibly, the upper rear light source generates combustion images on the secondary display screen; and wherein, possibly, the upper rear light source generates only white light and the combustion images generated only comprise smoke images.
Apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, in which the or one or some or all of the light sources generate white light to produce smoke images, or non-white light and/or multi coloured light to product flame effect and/or glowing ember effect images, or a combination thereof.
Apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, in which the apparatus includes: a drive arrangement, which, in use, causes rotation of the spindle; and a controller, which in use, provides operating instructions to the light source arrangement and the drive arrangement; the controller being arranged to permit the apparatus to operate in a plurality of operating modes; wherein the light source arrangement includes any one or combination of light sources from the group containing: a primary flame effect light source, a front fuel bed lower light source, a front fuel bed upper light source and an upper rear light source, and the operating modes include any respective one or combination of the modes in the group containing:
a mode in which only the primary flame effect light source generates light;

a mode in which only the front fuel bed lower light source generates light;

a mode in which only the front fuel bed upper light source generates light;

a mode in which only the upper rear light source generates light;

a mode in which light is generated by the primary flame effect light source, the front fuel bed lower light source and the front fuel bed upper light source;

a mode in which light is generated by the front fuel bed lower light source and the front fuel bed upper light source;

a mode in which light is generated by the front fuel bed lower light source and the upper rear light source;

a mode in which light is generated by the front fuel bed lower light source, the front fuel bed upper light source and the upper rear light source;

a mode in which light is generated by the primary flame effect light source, the front fuel bed lower light source, the front fuel bed upper light source and the upper rear light source.
Apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, in which the reflector members are in the form of fingers, strips, vanes or paddles; the reflector members are located along the length of the spindle at intermittent, possibly irregular, intervals and possibly at different, possibly irregular, radial angles; some or all of the reflector members are arranged in sets; each set may comprise two reflector members; each member of each set may extend generally oppositely radially outwardly from the spindle away from the other member of the same set; each member of each set may be axially offset relative to the other member of the same set along the spindle longitudinal axis; in one or some of the sets, one of the reflector members of the set may axially overlap one of the reflector members of an adjacent set; in one or some of the sets, one of the reflector members of the set may be separated axially by a clear space from the reflector members of an adjacent set.
Apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, in which the apparatus includes a transparent front window, which is located forwardly of the primary display screen and in front of the front fuel bed arrangement.
Apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, in which the apparatus comprises part of an electric fire, and wherein the fire may comprise a plurality of modules and may comprise a main combustion effect apparatus module, possibly a front fuel bed arrangement module and possibly a heater module.