GB2498329A - Burning fire optical effect by illuminating incense smoke - Google Patents

Abstract

Apparatus producing an optical effect simulating a burning fire by directing light into smoke from smouldering incense. The incense can be burnt in a smoke chamber 141, and emerge through a simulated fuel bed 131 illuminated by light 154. The effect can be part of an electric heater (e.g. figs 30-32) or used outdoors (e.g. fig 38), and be freestanding or in a fireplace (e.g. figs 22,26B). The incense can be direct-burning, or indirect-burning, heated by a heater (figs 39-41). Supports for the incense are described (e.g. figs 6A-9), and may be mounted to an ash pan door (e.g. 134, fig 12A). The light can be powered by mains electricity, battery or a hand-wound generator (e.g. figs 20A-21), and distributed by fibre optic (figs 27-28).

Description

Apparatus for Producing an Optical Effect

Field of the invention

The present invention relates to apparatus for producing an optical effect, and in particular to an apparatus for producing an optical effect resembling flames. More especially, the invention relates to flame effect electric fires, such as for domestic use, which may or may not include means for space heating and which includes an optical effect to generate simulated flames to resemble burning solid fuel.

Background

Fuel and flame effect fires in which burning solid fuel is simulated are well known. An example is described in GB 2230 335. Typically a flame effect fire will comprise a simulated fuel bed comprising simulated fuel and embers. The simulated fuel bed may be an integral thermoplastic moulding which is shaped and coloured to resemble both pieces fuel and the ember bed on which the fuel rests. Alternatively, the fuel bed may comprise a separate thermoplastic moulding intended to resemble only the ember bed on which discrete simulated fuel pieces are laid. The fuel bed is generally illuminated from below, to give the glowing effect of burning fuel pieces. For simulating the appearance of flames a screen is mounted behind the fuel bed. The screen may be partially reflective on its front surface to provide a virtual image of the fuel bed. The screen is also transmissive of light when illuminated from behind and may be partially diffusing of such light. The illusion of flames is provided by suitable modification of light from a light source which falls on the rear surface of the screen. GB 2230335 and EP 0897 514 teach such arrangements.

GB 2418014 teaches an alternative approach whereby a flame effect is simulated by illuminating simulated smoke. In this arrangement the use ofa simulated smoke generator which operates by vaporising a liquid such as glycol is discussed.

Recent developments by the present patentee have provided electric fires that use water vapour or mist to generate the effects of flames within the housing of the fire. Such fires are particularly advantageous in that a three dimensional flame effect is provided which substantially mimics the behaviour one would expect from a real flame. Despite these advantages there are requirements for improvements in such flame generators.

Summary

These and other problems are addressed by an apparatus for producing an optical effect in accordance with the present teaching. An apparatus in accordance with the present teaching may for example be provided in the physical form of a fire or stove, and provides a simulated flame effect which may be perceived to be three dimensional in form, hence achieving greater realism.

In direct contrast to the teaching of the background art, the present teaching employs a fuel comprising incense for use in generation of a simulated flame effect. By providing such a fuel, the present inventor has realised that it is possible to generate smoke, through either direct contact of the fuel with a heat source or by directly lighting the incense. The smoke thus generated through a smouldering of the fuel can be directed onto a light source which causes an illumination of the smoke to generate a simulated flame pattern. It will be understood that incense is an example of a combustible fuel which smoulders as opposed to burns with a flame. The geometric form of the incense defines the smouldering path through the material. This is because the incense material requires direct contact with the heat-be it the already smouldering embers or the heat source to initiate a smouldering of not-already smouldering parts of the incense form. In this way the smouldering is not spontaneous across the entire geometrical form. For example where using an incense stick, the stick will gradually smoulder along its length from the point of initial combustion until the entire stick has smouldered away to resultant embers.

Accordingly there is provided an apparatus as detailed in claim 1. Advantageous features are provided in the dependent claims thereto.

These and other features will be apparent from the following description of exemplary arrangements which are provided to assist the person of skill in an understanding of the present teaching but which are in no way intended to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention to that described.

Brief description of the drawings

Figure 1 shows an example of an incense stick that may be employed within the context of the present teaching.

Figure 2 is an example of an incense coil that may be employed within the context of the present teaching Figure 3 is an example of an incense cone that may be employed within the context of the present teaching.

Figure 4 is an example of an incense hoop that may be employed within the context of the present teaching.

Figure 5 is an example of one natural incense shape that that may be employed within the context of the present teaching.

Figure GA shows a support for a first type of a support holder for the incense tensioned to encapsulate and retain the incense material in an upright form with Figure GB showing how a rotation of the support may be used to reduce the tension on the incense material to allow its placement in and removal from the support.

Figure 7A shows an example of a support for an incense stick and Figure 7B shows how the same type of support may be employed for supporting an incense coil.

Figures 8A through 8C show examples of how another type of support could be used for supporting three different types of incense material.

Figure 9 shows another example of a support that may be usefully employed in support of an incense material for use in a flame effect fire.

Figures 10 and 11 show an example of a basket fire 130 that may advantageously be used within the context of the present teaching to support a fuel bed 131.

Figures 12A and 12B show how a support for incense may be integrated onto a door of the basket fire so as to ease the replacement of the incense elements within an interior volume of the basket fire.

Figure 13 shows an example of a smoke chamber which may be advantageously employed to concentrate smoke to the centre of the fuel bed and may also be sloped to promote ventilation.

Figure 14 is an exploded view of the fire basket of Figure 13 showing the light source that is ultimately located below the fuel bed including a front ashpan comprising a ledge that holds a smoke chamber.

Figure 15 shows a similar fire basket to that of Figure 14 but having an ashpan that is independent of the smoke chamber.

Figures 16 and 17 show a modification to the basket fire heretofore described which is also dimensioned for inset into a fireplace or a separate housing but having access to the incense material provided through a removable fuel bed.

Figure 18 shows a further modification to the construction of a basket fire which provides a one piece rotational moulding with no back and configured to receive additional logs to enhance 3d effect Figure 19A shows a similar construct to that of Figure 18 but with an integrated back.

Figure 19B shows a further modification whereby the fuel bed is removable to provide access to the incense.

Figures 20A and 20B show portions of the lighting component for a fire within the context of the present teaching with Figure 20A showing how a battery could be used to provide power to the light source and Figure 20B showing use of a mechanical winding mechanism to provide power.

Figure 21 shows a side view of the arrangement of Figure 20A.

Figure 22 shows an example of a simulated flame effect apparatus located within a standard fireplace in accordance with the present teaching.

Figure 23A and Figure 23B shows how fuel bed elements may be configured to define an interior volume within which incense may be located to generate smoke which passes to the rear of the fuel bed elements.

Figure 24A is an end view and Figure 24B shows a cross section through the stacked arrangement of Figure 23 showing incorporation of a light source.

Figure 24C and 24D provides an alternative positioning of the fuel bed elements to that of Figure 24A and 24B whereby gaps are formed between the elements which allows for smoke to pass through the fuel bed.

Figure 25 shows a modification to the arrangement of Figure 24 to incorporate a flicker element.

Figure 26A and 26B show a further modification to the stacked fuel bed elements combining logs such as previously described in combination with logs which are connected with optic fibres held securely inside each log which can be used in an existing standard and non-standard footprint fireplace.

Figure 27 shows an example of using two light sources within the interior volume of the fire can be used to selectively illuminate the smoke and provide light for the optical fibres of the fuel bed elements.

Figure 28 shows an arrangement whereby one or more apertures or slits are provided into fibre optic cable to improve the realism of a perceived flame ash bed.

Figure 29 shows an assembled fuel bed using the elements described with reference to Figure 28 and showing how use of a translucent decorated amber resin bed lights up when located over the slits.

Figure 30 shows an example of an inset fire having a fuel bed in accordance with the present teaching housed therein Figure 31 shows a cross section through the fire of Figure 30.

Figure 32 shows a modified fire to that of Figure 31 including a fan element to provide for a recycling of the smoke.

Figure 33 shows an alternative basket fire in accordance with the present teaching.

Figure 34 shows an exploded view of the basket fire of Figure 33.

Figure 35 shows a cross section through the fire of Figure 33.

Figure 36 shows a detail of a smoke chamber usefully employed within the fire of Figure 33.

S Figure 37 is an example of an alternative basket fire to that of Figures 33 to 36.

Figure 38 shows an example of an alcove that may be used to house a basket fire that may advantageously be used in an outdoor environment.

Figure 39 shows in schematic form another type of incense material that may be advantageously employed with the present context.

Figure 40 shows an alternative configuration for effecting a smouldering of the incense material.

Figure 41 shows another alternative configuration for effecting a smouldering of the incense material.

Detailed description of the Drawings

Figures ito 5 shows examples of an incense material that may be usefully employed within the context of the present teaching to generate smoke which is then illuminated to provide a three-dimensional flame pattern. The examples of Figures ito 5 are of different physical forms of incense.

Incense is well known and is traditionally associated with religious ceremonies, aromatherapy and for masking bad odours amongst its applications. As a material its make-up can vary but typically comprises an aromatic biotic material which on burning will release a fragrant smoke. There are two main types of incense and either could be usefully employed within the context of the present teaching.

A first type is conventionally known as direct-burning incense and is lit directly by a flame which is then fanned or blown out. The resultant ember smoulders and generates smoke.

Examples of this type of incense include Figure 1-incense stick 100, Figure 2-incense coils 105, Figure 3-incense cone 110 and Figure 4-incense hoop 115. Each of these have a first end 101 which on application of a flame thereto will ignite and burn. Subsequent extinguishing of the flame, for example by blowing it out, will allow the incense to continue to smoulder and generate smoke until the incense is completely exhausted.

Another type of incense is known as indirect-burning incense. An example of this is shown in the form of a block 120 in Figure Sand is not capable of burning on its own. Rather by putting it in direct contact with a separate heat source, the incense will generate smoke.

The duration of the smoke generation will vary dependent on the texture of the material with the example of the block of Figure 5 being a slower burning variety having a smaller total surface area than for example a powder. The heat source for this type of incense within the context of the present teaching will typically be provided by an electrical heating element or charcoal tablets. Fires incorporating this type of indirect-burning incense will be described in more detail with regard to Figures 39 through 41.

By judiciously selecting incense as a fuel in the form such as the examples of Figures 1 through S and placing that fuel within a housing, it is possible, within the context of the present teaching, to direct the smoke generated by that fuel onto a light source for generation of flame effects. To ensure that the effect is consistent, the present inventor has realised that it is important to ensure that the fuel is adequately mounted within the housing.

Dependent on the physical nature of the fuel being employed, the most appropriates support for the fuel will vary. Figure 6A and 6B show an example of how an incense hoop, may be mounted within a support 118. The support for this configuration of incense comprises an elastic member 116 which is wrapped around an upstanding hoop 115. The hoop is provided such that its smouldering end 101 will be orientated to the top of the support such that it will in use burn downwardly. The elastic member 116 is retained at two ends 117A, 117B and by pivoting a second end 117B towards the first end 117A the tension applied by the elastic member 116 onto the hoop 115 will reduce. This will allow a user to then replace the hoop as required. The support may comprise a stop 119 which will limit the extent by which the 2nd end 117B may be displaced away from the l end 117A thereby controlling the tension that will be applied by the circumferential wrapping of the elastic member 116 onto the combustible fuel.

Figures 7A and lB show how the support shown with reference to Figures GA and 6B may be utilised to define an upstanding member 102 defining a channel 103 in an upper surface 104 thereof. The channel 103 is dimensioned for receiving a portion of the incense, in the example of Figure 7A a non-burning end of an incense stick 100, and in the example of Figure 7B a non-burning end of a coil 105. The burning end 101 of each is desirably provided distally from the channel 103 such that it will burn towards the channel 103.

Figures 8A -SC show three examples of using a wedge shaped support 106 comprising first 107 and second 108 non-parallel support legs. The legs are arranged so as to taper inwardly towards one another thereby defining an open mouth 109 at their widest point. Incense such as in the form of a hoop 115, a cone 110 or a block 120 may be presented to the mouth 109 and by pressing it between the two legs 107, 108 will be retained in position.

Figure 9 shows an example of a support 106 for holding an incense stick 100. The support in this arrangement comprises first 112 and second 113 support members which are configured to support the stick 100 at first and second locations. The first 112 member defines an aperture 114A within through which a portion of the stick may be passed. The second member 113 defines a channel 114B within which the stick may be supported. In the absence of the second member, the stick will hang in a non-parallel configuration arising from its cooperation with the first member. It will be appreciated however that by extending the overlap between the surfaces of the aperture 114A and the stick that it may be possible to dispense with the second member 113 and still retain the stick in a horizontal configuration during the smouldering process.

Figures 10 and 11 show an example of a basket fire 130 that may advantageously be used within the context of the present teaching to support a fuel bed 131. The fuel bed in this configuration is formed to resemble burning logs 132 but it will be appreciated that the actual physical form of the burning fuel may vary dependent on the user preference.

common examples include coals, pebbles and the like. The fuel bed 132 is provided and projects above a decorative fret 133 which in use will be presented to the front of a fire housing so as to be visible to the user. An interior volume 135 is defined below the fuel bed 132 and behind the fret 133 and as shown in Figure 11, the incense 100 is desirably located within this volume 135.

Access to the volume is provided, in this exemplary configuration by a door 134 which resembles a traditional ash pan. The removal of the door 134 from the ash pan reveals the supported combustible material which in the example of Figure 11 is of the type previously described in Figure 9. An ash collector 136 is provided below the combustible material 100 to collect any ash that is generated during the smouldering of the incense.

During the combustion of the incense, generated smoke will pass upwardly through one or more apertures 137 that are defined within the fuel bed 131. By suitably moulding or otherwise forming the fuel bed 131 it is possible to define the dimensions and location of these apertures to provide a level of control as to where generated smoke from the incense will exit the volume 135. As will be explained below, by selectively illuminating the generated smoke it is possible to use the smoke to create an illusion of flames 138 which will be visible to a user located to the front of the fire.

Figures 12A and 12B show a modification to the arrangement of Figure 11 whereby the support for the incense is integrated onto the door 134 such that removal of the door from the interior volume 135 also effects a removal of the support for the combustible material.

This may advantageously ease the loading of additional combustible material onto the support as required.

Figure 13 shows an alternative configuration whereby the incense is provided within a smoke chamber 141 which is then located within the volume 135. The smoke chamber 141 comprises an air inlet 142 and an outlet 143. The inlet is located towards the bottom of the chamber and the outlet towards the top. Within the chamber 141, the incense may be located and its smouldering will generate smoke which will pass outwardly from the outlet 143. The use of such a chamber 141 may be advantageously employed to concentrate smoke to the centre of the fuel bed 131 the use of the sloped roof 144 will promote ventilation. The chamber may be located separately within the volume 135 or, as shown in the arrangement of Figure 13, may be coupled to the door 140 whereby movement of the door will effect a corresponding movement of the chamber 141. By judiciously spacing the chamber-and more particularly the outlet 143 of the chamber 141-relative to the door 140 it is possible to ensure that smoke exiting the chamber 141 will exit below the aperture 137 (or apertures if a plurality of same are present within the fuel bed) provided with the fuel bed 131. This will then pass upwardly though the fuel bed 131 and its illumination will create the illusion of flames emanating from the fuel bed 131.

Figure 14 is an exploded view of the basket of Figure 13. Two side walls 1SOA, 1SOB and a rear wall 1SOC cooperate with the fret 133 and door to provide a support for the fuel bed 131 and define the interior volume 135 previously described. The fuel bed 131 is desirably provided in a single piece and may be supported on ledges 151 provided on the walls of the basket. A floor 152 of the basket provides a support 153 for a light source 154. The light source 154 is located vertically below the aperture that is formed within the fuel bed. A stop is provided adjacent to the light source and will serve to determine the location of the smoke chamber 141 relative to the light source 154 once the chamber 141 is provided into the interior volume 135 (not shown in Figure 14). The smoke that exits the smoke chamber 141 will then pass over the light from the light source 154 where it will be coloured -dependent on the colouring of the light source-and pass through the fuel bed where it is perceived by a user as flames.

Figure 15 shows a partially constructed fire basket whereby the fuel bed 131 and the side walls 150 are provided in a one-piece construct. These may be fabricated in a variety of different ways, for example through a use of injection or rotational moulding. Four feet 160 are located on the floor 152 of the basket and serve to raise the floor 152 off the ground on which the basket is located.. Two opposing stops 161 are provided in a spaced apart configuration and are provided to locate the smoke chamber 141 within the volume of the fire basket.

Figures 16 and 17 show a modification to the arrangement heretofore described whereby access to the volume 135 is not provided through the front of the fire basket which in this configuration does not have a removable door 134. In this configuration the actual fuel bed element is separately formed to the support on which it is located. The support provides ledges 151 on which the fuel bed 131 rests. In this configuration access to the interior volume 135 is provided by removing the fuel bed-as shown in Figure 17. In this way access to the combustible material 100 and the light source 154 is enabled.

Figure 18 is similar to the arrangement of Figure 15 wheren a basket fire is provided in a one piece rotational moulding 170. It will be understood that other manufacturing techniques such as injection moulding could also be used. An aperture 137 is provided in an upper surface of the basket fire and it is through this aperture that illuminated smoke will pass. In this configuration the location of one or more additional logs 171 relative to the aperture 137 may serve to enhance the 3d effect of the fire. This example of a single piece moulding does not comprise a back wall for the fire basket and this omission is rectified in the configuration of Figure 19A which includes a back. In each of the two configurations a mateable front element 172 is provided which can be mounted to the moulding 170 to close an access port 173 to the interior volume 135. This mating may be achieved through location on a strut 174 provided as part of the single piece moulding 170.

Figure 19B shows a further modification having a very simple construct. Side walls 17DB co-operate with a fret 172B to provide a support for a fuel bed moulding 132. The seating of the fuel bed relative to the side walls and fret defines an interior volume within which the combustible incense 100 and the light 154 are located. The incense is provided in a support similar to that described previously with reference to Figure 12 but provided in a one-piece construct integrating the ash tray 136 with the supports 112 for the incense. This is seatable in a support housing 170C that is coupled to a lamp housing 170D within which the lamp 154 is located.

Figures 20A, 20B and 21 show an example of how power for the light source 154 may be provided. In the example of Figure 20A, the light source may be electrically coupled to a power source 180. This may be a mains connection or alternatively/in addition the light source 154 may be powered from one or more batteries which are housed within the basket fire. The batteries may be rechargeable or simply replaceable. As shown in Figure 20B a wind mechanism 181 may be used to provide a recharging of batteries. Such examples are particularly advantageously employed where the light source used is a low power light source such as provided by an LED-or a plurality of LEDs as appropriate.

Figures 22 to 29 shows examples of a simulated flame effect apparatus located within a standard fireplace 190 in accordance with the present teaching. As will be appreciated by those of skill in the art such a fireplace typically defines an inset volume 191 located below a chimney were typically a burning fire would be located. By dimensioning a flame effect apparatus so as to have external dimensions compatible with such inset volumes it is possible to replicate the effect of a real fire by locating the simulated flame effect apparatus of the present teaching within the same location as where one would typically expect to find a real fire. In the example of Figure 22, the apparatus comprises fuel bed elements 132 which are located so as to be visible above the standard fret 192 of the fire. In the event that a user does not wish to use the standard fret 192 they could always simply remove that and use a fire basket such as previously described with reference to the previous figures.

It will be appreciated that this configuration allows a user to incorporate as much of existing fireplace furniture as possible, but supplements that furniture with a fuel bed arrangement whereby a plurality of individual fuel bed elements are arranged relative to one another to define an interior volume within which the incense may be located to generate smoke. As shown in Figure 23 a moulded simulated log 202 can be attached to adjacent log 201. The adjacent log 201 is dimensioned to seat over the moulded simulated log and provide the visual effect of a log grain 204 to a viewer to the front of the fire. This grain surface 204 also serves to cover a smoke chamber 141 which is seated within the first log 201. While only showing two "logs1' provided on another it will be appreciated that this configuration could be modified by stacking a plurality of logs one above the other so as to create the visual impression of a stacked fire. As shown in the section view of Figure 24B, an interior volume is provided below upper surfaces 205 of the fuel bed elements within which a smoke generator may be located. Smoke generated within the smoke generator will pass upwardly where it is then illuminated by a light source 154. . The light source 154 is powered in this configuration by a rechargeable battery 180 although other power arrangements such as direct configuration to the mains power etc could also be provided. In the configuration of a rechargeable power source a jack 181-shown in the end view of Figure 24A-may be provided to provide power to the battery for recharging purposes. The logs can be configured so that one or more of the individual elements of a stack may be removed without others of the stack falling.

Figure 24C and 24D show a further configuration where the logs 201, 202 are arranged relative to one another such that smoke will pass between gaps formed between the logs.

Figure 25 shows another configuration where the light source is a mains operated halogen spotlight amber light which may be coupled to the mains via a plug 210. In another configuration use of a mains operatcd led spotlight with 3xlw red, green, blue LEDs or with separate LED's can be advantageously employed to give intense interactive flame colours.

Figure 25 also shows how t a flicker element 211 mounted on a stand 212 above the light source may be provided. The provision of such an element which would rotate on a spindle provided as part of the stand 212 will cause a periodic breakup in the pattern of light that is incident onto the generated smoke. As a result the viewer of the flame pattern will be presented with a flicker effect. The light sources could easily be replaced with the examples previously discussed with reference to Figures 20 and 21.

Figures 26A and 26B show a further modification to the stacked fuel bed elements combining logs such as previously described in combination with logs 220, 221 which are connected with optic fibres 215 held securely inside each log which can be used in an existing standard and non-standard footprint fireplace. The rear two logs 220, 221 can be moved to be within the available space 191.

Figure 27 shows an example of using two light sources 230, 154 within the interior volume of the fire can be used to selectively illuminate the smoke and provide light for the optical fibres of the fuel bed elements. It will be appreciated that the same light source could be used for both fibre optic and smoke illumination but if this configuration was chosen the colouring of each would be the same.

As shown in Figure 28 it is possible to also provide one or more apertures or slits 236 into the fibre optic cable sleeve2ls to improve the realism of a perceived flame ash bed. These slits 236 could be covered with pieces 231 of translucent resin or some other at least partially translucent material can be fixed over slits and be lit up as light escapes through slit 236 openings.

Figure 29 shows how a fully assembled log fuel bed and associated ashes per the configuration of Figure 28 might look Figure 30 shows how a fuel bed such as that described in Figure 29 may be disposed within an electric inset fire 300. The electric fire 300 defines a housing 301 having a rear section 302 which is dimensioned to be located within the volume of an existing fireplace. A surround 303 resembles the traditional surround of a fireplace. A fret 304 is located to the front and bottom of the fire 300 and located behind the fret may be provided the log fuel bed of Figure 29. An electrical fan heater 305-such as a 2kW blower may be located in an upper region of the fire 300 and is configured to operably direct heated air to the front of the fire 300. The heater 305 may be located behind a hood 306 which is pivotable relative to the housing to allow access to user controls of the fire.

As shown in Figure 31 the fuel bed is located on a frame 310 which allows the fuel bed to be supported within the housing of the electric fire. Figure 32 shows a further modification to the configuration of Figures 30 and 31 whereby a false back 320 is provided to the rear 321 of the housing. An air passage 321 is provided between the false back 320 and the rear of the housing and this allows for a re-circulation of air down the air passage 321 and passed the smoke that is generated within the interior volume 141. This assists in the conveying of smoke upwardly through the fuel bed where it is illuminated and generates the effect of a flame 138. It also serves in a fashion to provide for recirculation of the smoke generated. A fan is shown although this may be omitted.

Figures 33 to 36 show an alternative basket fire 350 in accordance with the present teaching. While this fire operates in accordance with similar principles that already described, its shape and configuration differ somewhat. In this configuration the basket fire 350 is self-supporting and comprises a platform 351 having a plurality of legs 352-individual legs provided at corners of the platform 351. A decorative grating 353 is provided about the perimeter of the platform 351.

A light aperture 354 is provided in the platform 351. In this configuration it is located substantially mid-point of the platform but it will be appreciated from the following that the actual location will depend from where the majority of flames are to emanate. Arranged circumferentially about the light aperture 354 are one or more smoke apertures 355.

A light source 154 is provided in a light housing 356. It is fixed to the platform using cooperating fixers which engage at points 357A on the light housing 356 and 357B on the platform 351.

A cowl 358 is provided and is fixed about the light housing 356 using fixing points 359A/359B. The cowl 358 defines a chimney within which smoke will be confined and will travel from below the light source passed the light source and through the platform to exit at smoke apertures 355.

A smoke chamber 360 defining a closed volume having an upper surface 361 is provided. A smoke exit 362 is provided in that upper surface from which smoke generated using for example an incense stick 100 may pass out of the chamber and into the chimney. As shown in Figure 36, the smoke chamber 360 may comprise one or more apertures 366 provided in a lower surface 367 of the chamber which will serve to draw air into the chamber to maintain the smouldering of the combustible fuel.

The smoke chamber 360 is seatable within a removable frame 365 which may be pulled out from below the frame to provide user access to the smoke chamber for purposes including replacing the combustible fuel. The light source 154 may be powered by a winding mechanism 181 similar to that described with reference to Figure 20B.

A second light source 368 is provided below the fuel bed 353 and is configured to selectively illuminate the fuel bed independently of the light that is directed onto the smoke to produce the flame effect.

Figure 37 shows a modification to the arrangement of Figure 33 to 36 whereas as opposed to having the light and smoke generator located below the platform 351, in this configuration they are located on or above the platform. While a smoke chamber 141 may be seated on the incense 100, this may in certain configuration be dispensed with. In such circumstances the fuel bed will define the volume within which the smoke is generated. One or more apertures 370 may be provided to allow an ingress of air to assist in the passage of the smoke upwardly. An LED strip 371 may be provided for optional additional illumination effects.

Figure 38 shows a possible alcove 380 for a basket fire such as that described in Figures 33 to 37 allowing it to be used outdoors providing shelter and shade from the sun and wind.

Heretofore the examples of the flame effect fire have been predominately with reference to the type of incense known conventionally as direct-burning incense or combustible incense.

Figures 39 through 41 show examples utilising the form known as indirect burning or non-combustible incense which not capable of burning on its own, and requires a separate heat source.

In the example of Figure 39, first and second fuel bed elements 3901, 3902 are mounted relative to one another to define a volume 135 below. Within the volume 135 is located a light source 154 that is provided to one side of a heat source 3903. In this example the heat source is an electrically powered heat source 3903 but other forms of direct heating could be used. The heat source provides a heating surface 3904 on which is placed indirect burning incense 3905. The application of heat to the incense causes it to smoulder and generate smoke. Similarly to that described previously, the smoke is directed or baffled onto the light path of light from the light source 154. The illumination of the smoke creates an illusion of flames 3906 which are then viewed as appearing from within the fuel bed-escaping through an aperture defined between the fuel bed elements.

Figure 40 shows another example whereby the incense is fabricated or moulded to resemble a fuel bed element. In this example two pieces 4001, 4002 are shown but it will be understood that this is purely illustrative and should not be considered limiting in any fashion. The fuel bed elements 3901, 3902 are constructed so as to provide an integrated heater 4003. When the pieces 4001, 4002 are located on the heater, activation of the heater causes the smouldering of the indirect combustible incense. It will be further understood that direct combustible incense could also be moulded to adopt the configuration expected fora fuel pied piece in which case the heater4003 could be dispensed with.

Figure 41 shows a further example whereby the fuel bed elements 3901 are dimensioned to define a channel or receptacle 4100 within which individual pieces of incense can be located. The incense will smoulder-either through a direct or indirect combustion process.

The example of Figure 41 shows incorporation of a heating element 4003 into the receptacle-similar to that described with reference to Figure 40. The generated smoke will pass upwardly from the fuel bed and on illumination from the light source 154 will resemble f Ia mes.

It will be appreciated that the present teaching directly employs a smouldering fuel in the form of incense which provides a source of actual smoke. The smoke is then directed onto a light source so as to achieve a localised illumination of the smoke to generate flame effects.

The smoke by itself would not be sufficient to provide the realism of a burning fire and the present inventor has judiciously selected incense which through a smouldering process will provide a volume of smoke that is then illuminated to create the necessary flame effect. By judiciously selecting incense, the smouldering effect is extended over the time period of hours which is a compatible time period for typical usage of a flame effect fire. This simulated flame effect arises from both a combination of actual smoke from burning an element within a simulated flame effect and then illuminating that smoke. While smoke is present in real fires, heretofore it is not believed that anyone has considered it possible to simulate flames in an artificial fire by actually burning a combustible element-it appears counter-intuitive. However by providing such a fuel, the present inventor has realised that it is possible to generate smoke through either direct contact of the fuel with a heat source or by effecting an actual combustion of the fuel and by directing that smoke onto a light source it is possible to generate a simulated flame pattern. Another advantage of incense is that it can be fabricated to generate a smell which is consistent with what the user would expect from a real fire so that the flame effect fire of the present teaching can advantageously provide both a visual and olfactory response in the user.

The words comprises/comprising when used in this specification are to specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps or components but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof.

Similarly the words upper, lower, below, behind, in front and the like are used to convey the relative positioning of elements or components when the apparatus is installed and being used.

Claims (1)

1. <claim-text>Claims 1. A simulated burning fuel apparatus comprising: incense which on smouldering generates smoke; a light source located relative to the incense to direct light onto generated smoke; a fuel bed located relative to the incense such that smoke generated from a smouldering of the incense exits upwardly and away from the fuel bed, and wherein the direction of light onto the generated smoke selectively illuminates the smoke exiting the fuel bed to create the illusion of flames.</claim-text> <claim-text>2. The apparatus of claim 1 comprising a smoke chamber within which the incense is located.</claim-text> <claim-text>3. The apparatus of claim 2 wherein the smoke chamber is provided by the fuel bed.</claim-text> <claim-text>4. The apparatus of claim 2 wherein the smoke chamber is formed separately to the fuel bed and is located below the fuel bed.</claim-text> <claim-text>5. The apparatus of any one of claims 2 to 4 wherein the smoke chamber defines a closed volume and a smoke exit aperture, smoke collecting within the closed volume prior to exiting the chamber through the smoke exit aperture.</claim-text> <claim-text>6. The apparatus of any preceding claim wherein the incense comprises direct burning incense.</claim-text> <claim-text>7. The apparatus of any preceding claim comprising a support for the incense to elevate the incense so as to assist in the smouldering process.</claim-text> <claim-text>8. The apparatus of any preceding claim wherein the fuel bed comprises a single moulded piece.</claim-text> <claim-text>9. The apparatus of any preceding claim wherein the fuel bed comprises a plurality of individual pieces which collectively cooperate to define the fuel bed.</claim-text> <claim-text>10. The apparatus of claim 9 wherein the plurality of individual pieces are stacked upon one another, the generated smoke passing between one or more gaps defined between the individual pieces.</claim-text> <claim-text>11. The apparatus of claim 9 or 10 wherein the plurality of individual pieces are stacked upon one another to define a shield to occlude a viewing of the incense from the front of the apparatus.</claim-text> <claim-text>12. The apparatus of claim 9 wherein the generated smoke passes behind the plurality of individual pieces.</claim-text> <claim-text>13. The apparatus of any preceding claim comprising a fuel bed light source for local illumination of the fuel bed.</claim-text> <claim-text>14. The apparatus of claim 13 wherein the fuel bed light source comprises one or more LEDs.</claim-text> <claim-text>15. The apparatus of claim 13 or 14 wherein the fuel bed light source is integrated into one or more of the fuel bed pieces.</claim-text> <claim-text>16. The apparatus of any one of claims 13 to 15 wherein the fuel bed light source is independent of the light source used in selective illumination of the smoke.</claim-text> <claim-text>17. The apparatus of any preceding claim wherein the light source used to illuminate the smoke also illuminates the fuel bed.</claim-text> <claim-text>18. The apparatus of any preceding claim comprising a battery powered light source.</claim-text> <claim-text>19. The apparatus of any preceding claim comprising a mechanical winder for providing power to the light source.</claim-text> <claim-text>20. The apparatus of any preceding claim comprising a frame on which the fuel bed is located.</claim-text> <claim-text>21. The apparatus of claim 20 wherein the incense is provided below the frame.</claim-text> <claim-text>22. The apparatus of claim 21 wherein the frame comprises at least one smoke aperture through which smoke originating from the incense may pass into a volume defined by the fuel bed.</claim-text> <claim-text>23. The apparatus of any one of claims 20 to 22 wherein the light source is provided below the frame.</claim-text> <claim-text>24. The apparatus of claim 23 wherein the frame comprises a light aperture through which the light from the light source may be directed to provide the selective illumination of the smoke.</claim-text> <claim-text>25. The apparatus of claim 24 when dependent on claim 22 wherein the at least one smoke aperture is arranged adjacent to the perimeter of the light aperture.</claim-text> <claim-text>26. The apparatus of claim 20 wherein the incense is provided above the frame.</claim-text> <claim-text>27. The apparatus of claim 26 wherein the light source is provided above the frame.</claim-text> <claim-text>28. The apparatus of any preceding claim wherein the light source is arranged to direct light through the at least one aperture in the fuel bed to selectively illuminate the smoke exiting the fuel bed.</claim-text> <claim-text>29. The apparatus of any preceding claim wherein the fuel bed is removable to allow access to the incense.</claim-text> <claim-text>30. The apparatus of any preceding claim comprising a housing within which the incense is located, the housing supporting the fuel bed.</claim-text> <claim-text>31. The apparatus of claim 30 wherein the housing comprises a door providing access to the incense.</claim-text> <claim-text>32. The apparatus of claim 31 wherein the incense is supported by the door, removal of the door from the housing effecting a corresponding movement of the incense away from the housing.</claim-text> <claim-text>33. The apparatus of claim 30 wherein the fuel bed is removable from the housing to provide access to the incense.</claim-text> <claim-text>34. The apparatus of any preceding claim where in the incense is direct-burning incense.</claim-text> <claim-text>35. The apparatus of any preceding claim wherein the incense is indirect-burning incense.</claim-text> <claim-text>36. The apparatus of claim 35 comprising a heating element for effecting a smouldering of the incense.</claim-text> <claim-text>37. The apparatus of claim 36 wherein the heating element is an electrical heating element.</claim-text> <claim-text>38. The apparatus of claim 36 or 37 wherein the heating element is integrated into the fuel bed.</claim-text> <claim-text>39. The apparatus of any preceding claim wherein the fuel bed is configured to receive the incense, the fuel bed supporting the incense during its smouldering.</claim-text> <claim-text>40. The apparatus of any preceding claim wherein the incense is fabricated to resemble a fuel bed element.</claim-text> <claim-text>41. A flame effect apparatus substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to any one of the accompanying Figures.</claim-text>