JP2009521784A - Candles and phosphor light show - Google Patents

Abstract

  The candle assembly includes a base having light transmissive sidewalls extending from the base and defining an interior space. The light source includes a power supply circuit disposed in the internal space. A light transmissive sheath is disposed around the sidewall and is radially spaced from the sidewall. The top end of the side wall is used to hold a candle replacement. At least one of the side wall and the sheath may be adjusted in height so as to extend to at least the top of the candle replacement part, and the body of the candle replacement part may not be seen by transmission of light from the light source.

Description

This application is a continuation-in-part of US patent application Ser. No. 11 / 355,585, filed Feb. 16, 2006, and is a US provisional application filed on Dec. 21, 2005. Claim the benefit of number 60 / 754,088. U.S. Patent Application No. 11 / 355,585 is filed with U.S. Patent Application No. 10 / 780,028 filed on Feb. 17, 2004 (U.S. Patent Application No. 11 / 355,585 filed on Dec. 21, 1999). 09 / 468,970, a continuation-in-part of US patent application Ser. No. 09 / 747,545, filed Dec. 20, 2000, now part of US Pat. No. 6,802,707 U.S. Patent Application No. 11 / 140,683 filed on May 31, 2005 (filed on Feb. 17, 2004) No. 10 / 780,028, which is a continuation-in-part application, and a portion of US patent application Ser. No. 11 / 096,753 filed Mar. 31, 2005. Continuation application

This application also claims the benefit of US Provisional Application No. 60 / 723,166, filed Oct. 3, 2005. We claim the benefits of all the above prior applications, and therefore, these applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
References to federally supported research and development

Not applicable

Not applicable

  The present invention relates generally to votive assemblies, and more particularly to votive assemblies having sound shows and / or light shows.

  Various multi-sensor candle assemblies that emit sound and / or light are known. As an example, a candle assembly has a candle that includes a wick disposed within a cylindrical container having a concave stepped ring surrounding an open top end. The circular light shield has an outer peripheral flange that is fitted into the top end of the opening and supported by a concave stepped ring.

  As another example, the candle holder has a candlestick (standard) for receiving a candlestick extending from the base of the candle holder. The candlestick has a socket (socket) at its upper end for receiving a candlestick having an outwardly curved flange. A funnel-shaped tip tube is placed in the receptacle. The pre-cracked tube has an outer curved outer flange that is supported by a curved flange in the receptacle. The cap is supported by the peripheral edge of the receptacle spaced above the cracked tube across the flange curved outward of the receptacle.

  Electric candles having a hollow cylindrical body portion extending upward from a mount are known. The votive candle is carried in the upper end of the body portion opening by a bracket having a plurality of arms extending radially outward from the central frustoconical rim. The votive candle is carried inside the rim, and the peripheral edge of the arm is supported by a concave internal annular rim at the upper open end of the body portion.

  In some cases, the candle has a constant flame that has a wax body contained in a tubular envelope. The spring urges the wax body upward toward a core supported along the open end of the jacket by a thermally insulating cover. The core extends through the central opening of the cover and is held at a fixed flame position by a wire. An outwardly curved peripheral lip is held in the elevational position. A peripheral lip that curves outwardly of the cover is supported in a peripheral recess in the tubular jacket.

  In one example, a decorative luminescent product has a candle or a candle holder that includes a candle. The luminescent product has a decorative web formed of a heat shrinkable polymer that can be deformed to the shape of the luminescent product. The web is decorated with a thermochromic ink or pigment that reacts to the heat generated by burning the candle to provide a visual effect as the candle burns.

  As another example, a melody candle has an optical fiber embedded in the candle in parallel with the wick. The optical fiber is connected to an optical sensor that controls the melody generating device so that when the candle is ignited, the light is transmitted through the optical fiber to the optical sensor to play a melody. The optical fiber is coated with a color changing pigment that changes to a dark color that prevents ambient light from being transmitted to the photosensitive sensor when the candle is not lit. When the wick is ignited, the discolored pigment becomes transparent due to the heat generated from the ignited wick. As a result, the light moves down the optical fiber, the melody playback device is activated, and the melody performance is started.

  Another melody candle assembly has a candle with an axially disposed wick and a thermally responsive piezoelectric strip disposed along the wick. When the wick is ignited, heat from the flame is converted by the heat-responsive strip by activating electrons in the candle base, and a melody, song, or vocal performance is started.

  Yet another melody generating candle has an embedded integrated circuit that plays music. A twisted optical fiber transmits light from the ignited core to an optical sensor operatively connected to the integrated circuit. The candle further includes a light reflector that adjusts the sensitivity of the photosensitive sensor in accordance with the light transmitted to the sensor through the twisted optical fiber.

  A further melody candle assembly has a candle having one or more recesses in the bottom and a wick having a lower end extending to the bottom of the candle. The candle has an optical fiber embedded in the axial direction. Furthermore, the candle assembly also has one or more openings and a central hole through which the core extends. The candle assembly comprises a melody playback device and a light sensor inserted in a central hole formed on the opposite side of the lower end of the wick for sensing light from the wick to prepare the melody playback device to operate. Have.

  Other melody candles use color-changing pigments to coat optical fibers that, in the normal state, remain dark in color, and when the candle burns, heat is applied and changes to a transparent color.

  In another example, a candle device has a flame response circuit that is used to respond to a flame source and a receiver circuit that is configured to respond to a radio frequency signal. The flame response circuit and the receiving circuit are coupled to an electronic regenerator, an electromechanical device, or a light source device.

  A further candle apparatus includes a candle body housed in a container having a bottom and a compartment containing a music generator having an integrated circuit formed in the bottom. The integrated circuit is controlled by a switch means that activates the integrated circuit in response to the presence or absence of a candle ignited wick candle flame. The switch means includes an optical fiber member coupled to the photosensitive resistor, a heat transfer wire coupled to the thermal resistor, or a heat transfer wire coupled to the infrared resistor. The infrared resistor detects infrared radiation emitted by the heated heat transfer wire.

  The discolored candle has a strand-like optical fiber embedded so as to be parallel and adjacent to the core in the candle body. The optical fiber is operatively connected to electrons embedded in the candle body. In response to detecting light transmitted through the strands of fiber, the electron activates one or more light emitting diodes that change the color of the candle body to one of the colors of the one or more lighted light emitting diodes. Let

  In yet another example, the candle includes a light guide, such as a fiber optic cable, in a core disposed axially within the candle body. The light guide is coupled to music generating electronics that, when the candle is ignited, the light of the candle transmitted along the light guide triggers the music to play.

  In another example, the candle has a candle extinguishing assembly that acts to extinguish the candle flame if the candle burns an amount that causes the magnet system mechanism to be triggered. The flame extinguishing mechanism of the magnet-based candle includes a candle having a core holder and a first magnet having a first polarity. The candle has a second polarity and is arranged to cover a second magnet arranged below the candle. The first and second magnets are positioned such that the first polarity of the first magnet is repelled by the second polarity of the second magnet. However, the candle initially has an amount that is greater than the repulsive force of the first and second magnets so that the candle is kept upright. When the candle melts sufficiently, a pool of melted wax is formed. After a certain amount of wax is consumed, the repulsive force between the two magnets becomes greater than the weight of the candle, which causes the candle to tilt into the molten wax pool and extinguish the flame.

  In other examples, the candle support structure is designed to prevent the candle from tipping over due to vibrations such as an earthquake. The structure appears to consist of a thimble-like device that plugs into a hole in the base of the candle body that has shaped a conventional wax. Heart rings and candles are received on the receptor. At a location on the receiving body where the heart ring and candle are received, there is a permanent magnet embedded flush with a saucer-like structure that receives the candle droplets from the burning candle. The candle is designed to first receive the heart ring and further have a hole in the base that prevents the candle from overheating the heart ring and permanent magnet below it.

  In yet another example, the magnetic candle holder assembly has a candle holder with a magnet bonded to its base. The assembly also has a pawl tray with a magnetic material. The saucer is inserted into the base of a conventional wax-type candle, and the saucer and candle are placed on top of a magnet. The candle is secured to the candle holder by a magnetic attraction between a magnet bonded to the candle holder and a saucer with magnetic material inserted into the base of the candle.

  The lit display device has a base that includes three light emitting diodes that can simultaneously color in the visible spectrum and can selectively illuminate a translucent object placed on the display device. These diodes are positioned below the top surface of the base and in a central position optical path located within the base. The translucent object support is removably disposed on the top surface of the base and further diffuses and disperses the light emitted by the LED. The translucent object support may be a flat sheet of translucent material or a candle holder.

  In yet a further example, the candlestick element is movable over at least two spaced apart openings, a central hole through which the lower end of the optical fiber extends, and each opening formed in the top of the candlestick element. And a melody generating device having a switch knob protruding from the center.

  According to one embodiment of the present invention, a candle assembly includes a base having light transmissive sidewalls defining an interior space and extending from the base. A light source including a power supply circuit is disposed in the internal space. A light transmissive sheath (sheath portion) is disposed around the side wall, and the sheath is radially spaced from the side wall. The top end of the side wall is configured to hold a candle refill. The height of at least one of the side walls and the sheath extends to at least the top of the candle replacement body, thereby making it impossible to see the replacement body through transmission of light from the light source.

  According to another embodiment of the present invention, the candle assembly includes a light assembly and a controller that cooperates with the assembly. The candle assembly is also provided with a light pipe that includes a bottom and top light transmissive sidewall, the light pipe being configured to support the candle and defining an interior space. The bottom end of the light pipe is disposed adjacent to at least one light source of the light assembly, and allows light transmission from the at least one light source.

  According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, a light pipe is included that includes a photoconductive sidewall that surrounds an interior space and extends between a first end surface and a second end surface. A part of the side wall is configured to support the candle replacement part. The light source is positioned adjacent to the first end face. The photoconductive sheath is disposed around the light pipe, is radially spaced from the light pipe, and is configured so that the body of the candle replacement section cannot be seen by transmission of light from the light source.

  Other aspects of the invention will become more apparent upon consideration of the drawings and the following detailed description, in which like components in different embodiments are labeled with like reference numerals in the various drawings. The

Referring to FIGS. 1-5, the candle assembly 100 includes a support base 102, a melting dish 104, a wick holder 106, a wick 108, and a fuel element 110. The support table 102 is formed in a tray shape and supports a melting plate 104 including a capillary pedestal 112 disposed in the center. An optional decorative etch 114 is applied to the top exposed surface of the melting plate 104 to attract people or provide visual information. The core holder 106 includes a base portion 116 that fits into the capillary pedestal 112, a core holding sleeve in the shape of an elongated cylindrical body 118, and a heat conducting element such as a fin-shaped portion 120. The body portion 118 receives the core 108 so as to extend from the base portion 116 with a part of the core exposed above the body portion. The fuel element 110 is disposed along and around the wick holder 106 and includes a duct or slot 122 through which the wick 108 extends. The slot 122 has a width W ₁ that allows the core 108 to extend through the slot 122 and a length l ₁ that can receive at least a portion of the fin 120. In one embodiment, the fuel element 110 has a wax amount of about 15 g and the molten dish candle 100 is about 3 hours to about 3 hours in the same fuel as the fuel element 110 until the fuel is completely consumed. It burns continuously for 3.5 hours.

   As shown in FIG. 2, the base portion 116 of the core holder 106 includes an end plate 124 surrounded by a substantially conical base skirt portion 126, a body portion 118 extending upward from the base skirt, and the body portion and end plate 124. And an upper portion including an extended fin-shaped portion 120. When the torso 118 is placed on the capillary pedestal, it is used to fit snugly along and around the capillary pedestal 112 so that it is maintained upright or in a generally vertical orientation. Base skirt 126 includes an indentation or spacer 128 and a hole 130 through end plate 124. For example, the hole 130 allows a ferromagnetic structure such as a steel bar 132 or a magnet (not shown) to be secured to the base portion 116 via the hole 130, whereby the core holder 106 is magnetically attached to the capillary pedestal 130. Can be releasably secured along. The body 118 is sized to receive the core 108 by either an interference fit or an interference fit so as to hold the core so that the core can extend through the end plate, and the end plate 124. An opening 134 is defined in the end plate 124 so that the core can extend through the end plate 124. The fin-shaped part 120 extends in the lateral direction on both sides opposite to the body part 118 and extends upward from the body part. In one embodiment, the fins 120 are shaped to mimic the flame contour. In other embodiments, the fins 120 may have a square, circular, elliptical, triangular, or other non-geometric shape, and in other embodiments, the fins 120. Is filed on September 10, 2004 and is generally described in U.S. Patent Application No. 10 / 939,039, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety, An insulating region (not shown) may be included. The fin 120 is a thermally conductive material such as a relatively thin strip of metal that conducts heat outward from the flame burning on the wick 108 toward the fuel element 110. In one embodiment, the wick holder 106 is made from a single sheet of aluminum that is cut and folded around the turn 136 and between the opposing sides 140 and 142 and the channel or gap 144 in the base skirt 126. In this way, the capillary space 138 is formed. In other embodiments, the core holder 106 can be formed by other methods from other heat resistant materials such as ceramic, other metals, heat resistant plastics, and the like. When the core holder 106 is formed of a ferromagnetic material such as steel, the steel rivet 132 may be omitted as necessary. The two sides 140 and 142 may be connected to each other by any suitable means, such as rivets 146, soldering, clips, heat resistant adhesives, etc. through holes 148 in the fin 120. Glued. The gap 144 and the hole 130 allow molten fuel material from the fuel element 110 to drip or infiltrate below the base skirt 126, and the capillary space 138 causes the fin 120 to flow through the capillarity of the molten fuel material. Providing fuel in the wick region 150 that can cross over and is not consumed. An example of such capillary action is described in US patent application Ser. No. 10/934453, filed Sep. 10, 2004, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

As shown in detail in FIG. 3, the fuel element 110 includes a body 152 of fuel material and has an upper surface 154 and a lower surface 156. The fuel element 110 is, in one embodiment, a wax pack, and in other embodiments may have other shapes, solid or semi-solid, or fixed at room temperature. Other soluble or flowable fuel materials such as paraffin or animal fat that can be maintained in The lower surface 156 of the fuel element 110 defines a cavity 158 having an upper cavity wall 160 that is shaped to fit the base portion 116 of the core holder 106. The slot 122 extends from the top surface 154 to the cavity wall 160 and has a top surface width W ₁ that is less than the cavity wall width W ₂ . The width W ₁ ensures that the molten wax from the fuel element 110 does not disengage from the slot or scatter down without engaging the core 108 or use a different approach. The width W ₁ should be narrow so that fuel material melted from near the top of the slot 122 can ensure engagement with the wick 108 when it is disengaged from the slot or splashes down from the slot. Is preferred. In one embodiment, the width W ₁ should not be more than about 0.02 inch (0.5 mm) greater than the core diameter at the upper end of the slot 122. In another embodiment, the width W ₁ is smaller than the width of the wick 108 so that an interference fit exists between the wick and the body 152 at the upper end of the slot 122. In a further embodiment, the width W ₁ is about 0.12 inches (3 mm) or less. The wick 108 has a diameter of about 0.1 inch (2.5 mm). Also, in a further embodiment (not shown), the slot 122 initially has a width that is approximately 0.02 inches (0.5 mm) larger than the diameter of the core 108, thereby allowing the core 108 into the slot 122. and facilitates the insertion of the wick holder 106, slots, subsequently, further in the second manufacturing step so that the width W ₁ is less than about 0.02 inches (0.5 mm) than the diameter of the core fuel Fill material.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the support platform 102 supports the melting dish 104 in an upper chamber 162 that is generally bowl-shaped. In one embodiment, an air space 168 is formed between the melting plate and the intermediate wall 170 of the support platform 102 by being secured to the side wall 164 of the upper chamber 162 by an adhesive 166. An air space 168 provides insulation between the melting dish and the support table 102, reducing heat loss from the melting dish to the support table. In other embodiments (not shown), the melting dish 104 is adjacent to an intermediate wall 170 with an adhesive 166 disposed therebetween, and no air space 168 is formed between the melting dish and the intermediate wall. . Of course, other configurations and support structures for the melting plate 104 are preferably applied to support the melting plate.

In one embodiment of the fuel element 110, the slot 122 has a length l ₁ at the upper surface 154 that is longer than the length l ₂ of the lower surface 156. The length l ₁ is shorter than the maximum width W _{f of the} fin-shaped portion 120, and the length l ₂ is longer than the maximum width W _f of the heat-fin-shaped portion. As described above, in addition to the slot widths w ₁ and w ₂ , such a slot length l ₁ and length l ₂ configuration with respect to w _f allows the core holder 106 to be moved from the lower surface 156 into the slot. Makes it easy to insert completely into. Such a configuration of slot 122 and cavity 158 prevents the slot from fully receiving the core holder when the fin 120 is inserted into the slot through the upper surface 154 rather than the lower surface 156, thereby This prevents or prevents the fuel element 110 and the wick holder 106 from being assembled incorrectly.

  As shown in FIG. 5, a portion of the melting dish 104, the capillary pedestal 112, the wick holder 106, the fuel element 110, and the wick 108 are assembled and shown ready for use or initial ignition by the user. Has been. In one embodiment, the capillary pedestal 112 includes a floor 176 of the melting plate 104 and an inclined sidewall 172 having an annular groove 174 extending around at an intermediate position between the top wall 178 of the capillary pedestal 112. The magnet 180 is fixed to the lower side of the top wall 166 by an adhesive 182. In other embodiments, the magnet 180 may be located on the top wall 178 or elsewhere that is sufficient to attract the core holder 106. A spacer 128 is provided to provide a capillary space 184 between the base skirt 126 and the inclined sidewall 172 sized to facilitate capillary action of the molten or liquid fuel material toward the wick 108. Is used to be seated in the annular groove 174. The spacer 128 assists in holding the core holder 106 with the capillary pedestal 112 by seating in the annular groove 174. Furthermore, the steel rivets 132 in the wick holder 106 are attracted to the magnet 186 when placed along the capillary pedestal 112 so that the wick holder does not unexpectedly fall off or slide off the capillary pedestal. Like that. When placed under the end plate 124, the steel rivet 132 also acts as a capillary spacer to help maintain the capillary space 184. In other embodiments, in order to keep the core clip 106 in place on the capillary pedestal 112, the magnet 186 may be endplates using any suitable means, such as an adhesive or using rivets. 124 can be secured. The cavity wall 160 of the fuel element 110 provides a base skirt 126 and barrel for the wick holder 106 to minimize the open space 188 between the fuel element and the wick 108, the wick holder 106, and the molten dish floor 176. It is shaped so as to be supported by the floor portion 176 of the melting plate 104 with an interference fit with 118. By minimizing the open space 188, molten fuel material (not shown) falls to the floor 176 or accumulates in the open space, thereby causing wick liquid or molten fuel material during combustion. Rather, it is more likely to send the (molten fuel material) directly to the wick 108. However, the molten fuel material was melted as it accumulated around the base of the capillary pedestal 112, whether by melting from the melting plate 104 or by direct melting by the flame 109 on the core 108. The fuel material is pulled up along the capillary space 184 by capillary action toward the non-consumable core region 150 while the candle is burning. In one embodiment, the wick 108 extends through the open end 134 of the barrel 118 and contacts or substantially contacts the top wall 178 of the capillary pedestal 112. This causes the liquid fuel material that has been lifted up the capillary space 184 to engage with the wick and be pulled up in the interior so that it is eventually burned by the flame burning on the wick. The core body 118 has an inner diameter sufficient to receive the core 108. The inner diameter of the barrel 118 may be larger, smaller, or the same as the diameter of the core, and may have a similar or different diameter along its length. In one embodiment, the inner diameter of the barrel 118 is larger than the diameter of the wick 108 so that the wick can be easily inserted into the barrel. In other embodiments, the inner diameter of the barrel 118 is uniformly 0.012 inches (0.3 mm) greater than the diameter of the core 108. In yet another embodiment, the inner diameter of the barrel 118 is the same as or smaller than the core 108. Molten fuel material can be leached into the capillary space 184 via the perforations 130, thereby preparing for or facilitating upward capillary action through the capillary space 184. it can. In addition, the molten fuel material is pulled upward in the capillary space 138 between the opposing side portions 140 and 142 of the fin-shaped portion 120, and the molten fuel material is vaporized and ignited by the flame on the core 108. It may be pulled up to the non-flammable core area.

  Next, referring to FIG. 6, another core holder 200 and melting plate 202 are shown. The core holder 200 and the melting dish 202 include a smooth inclined side wall 206 in which the capillary pedestal 204 is not provided with the annular groove 174, except that the core holder 200 does not include the spacer 128 in the base skirt 126. The same applies to the lead holder 106 and the melting plate 104 shown in FIG. A capillary space (not shown) similar to reference numeral 184 is provided between the base skirt 126 and the side wall 206 by a steel rivet 132 protruding below the end plate 124 of the base portion 116 of the core holder 200, for example. Maintained. In this embodiment, the core holder 200 is substantially maintained on the capillary pedestal 204 by an attractive force between the steel rivet 132 and the magnet 180 (not shown in FIG. 6) in the capillary pedestal.

  Referring now to FIGS. 7 and 8, for example, another embodiment of a wick holder 300 for use in the candle assembly of reference number 100 is shown, from a cross-sectional area of another portion of the wick barrel. The core holder 106 (or the core holder 200) is the same as the core holder 106 except that it includes an intermediate portion of the body portion 118 having a small cross-sectional area. A recess 302 in the side wall 304 of the barrel 118 is located or positioned midway between the opposite ends 308 and 310 of the barrel and has a waistline (with a smaller cross-sectional area than any other portion of the barrel) ( A clamping portion 306 is defined. The wick 108 extends such that a portion or end of the wick used to absorb the fuel material 311 (when in a molten or otherwise fluid state) extends downwardly through the end 310. The other part or end of the ignition core extends through the body 118 so that it extends upward through the end 308. The constriction 306 may reduce the effective core cross-sectional area, thereby reducing or limiting the capillary fluid flow rate of the core between the first open end and the second open end. Next, the limited flow rate, substantially reduced fluid flow rate of the fluid fuel material 311 in the wick 108 from end 310 to end 308 reduces the fuel material burn rate and increases the life of the fuel element. be able to. The constricted portion 306 having a large cross-sectional area has a higher volumetric flow rate or a larger capillary fluid flow rate than a constricted portion having a small cross-sectional area, so that the capillary fluid flow rate of the core 108 is reduced by reducing the cross-sectional area of the constricted portion. It can be substantially reduced. When the sidewall 304 becomes substantially liquid impermeable (eg, when the sidewall does not pass fluid fuel material to the core 108), the flow rate of the fluid fuel material 311 flowing upward along the core 108 through the constriction 306. Is enhanced by such shrinkage, which restricts the flow of fluid fuel material to the core through the end 310 disposed on the end plate 124 or on the end 308 of the barrel 108. . The recess 302 may assist in holding the core 108 in place within the barrel 118. In this case, for example, the end of the wick extends through or to the end 310 and the wick is pulled out of the barrel so that the capillary space 184 of the fluid fuel material 311 passes through the drip hole 130. Preventing potential loss of contact with the flow through the core.

  Other variations and embodiments of the candle assembly and wick holder 300 described in detail herein are also specifically contemplated. For example, in one embodiment, the barrel 118 may take the form of a cylindrical or tubular sleeve having other cross-sectional areas and shapes. In other embodiments, the constriction 306 in the body 118 is formed by an inner annular ridge (not shown). The inner annular ridge is formed by denting or crimping the sidewall 304 around the entire core barrel 118 or by an inner annular shoulder located on the inner surface of the sidewall 304. May be. In other embodiments, the constriction 306 may be formed by a single recess 302, or a plurality of recesses that may either be in opposing relationship or offset from each other. May be formed. In other embodiments (not shown), the barrel 118 is not generally tubular, but rather has a portion of the core 108 inserted therein and first and second openings in the sidewalls from which the core extends. It can also take the form of a core skin, including side walls that are curved in the longitudinal direction.

  According to another aspect, the capillary space 184, applicable to any combination of any of the core holders described herein and the capillary pedestal shown in FIG. A volume or capillary well 350 is defined between the base portion 116 of the 300 and the capillary pedestal 204. The capillary well 350 is formed after the reservoir 352 (shown in dashed lines) of fuel material 311 (eg, wax or other meltable fuel) is formed in the melt pan 202 and capillary pedestal 204 of the peripheral skirt 126 and then the core 108. Have dimensions that are preselected for solid ignition and can be solidified. While burning continuously, the fluid portion of the fuel material 311 is drawn from the pool 352 into the capillary well 350, pulled up to the wick 108 by capillary action, and supplied to the flame 354 of the wick 108. If the flame 354 is extinguished before the entire fuel element 110 is exhausted, the pool 352 of fuel material 311 solidifies and extends through the bottom of the melting dish 202, through the capillary well 350, and to the wick 108. In one embodiment, when the wick 108 is reignited after the reservoir 352 of fuel material 311 has solidified, the capillary space 184 replenishes the liquefied fuel material to replace the fuel material in the capillary well, The size of the capillary space 184 is such that a fluid supply of fuel material can be quickly formed and used in the capillary well to supply the flame 354 through the wick 108 until the fuel material surrounding the peripheral skirt 126 is sufficiently melted. Is determined. For example, if the size of the capillary space 184 is too small, a continuous reignition is performed when the pool 352 of fuel material 311 surrounding the outer skirt 126 is not sufficiently melted to replace the liquefied fuel in the core 108. There is not enough fuel material in the capillary well 350 to sustain the flame 354 of the wick 108 therein. Also, for example, if the capillary space 184 is too large, it takes time to transfer heat through the solidified fuel material 311 of the capillary well 350 when the core fuel material is not combusted, and the core 108 in the capillary space 184 A sufficient amount of fuel material is not melted to allow the liquefied fuel to be fed into the tank. Under any circumstances, a substantially continuous capillary action of the fluid fuel material may be initiated or sustained from outside the capillary space 184 to the capillary well 350 and to the wick 108 for delivery to the flame 354. Before a sufficient amount of fuel material is melted, the flame 354 disappears due to lack of fuel. Thus, in one embodiment, to assist in a good sustained re-ignition of the wick 108, the capillary well 350 has a solid fuel material 311 adjacent to or surrounding the peripheral skirt 126. A certain amount of molten fuel is delivered to the re-ignited core 108 from the reservoir 352 until a sufficient amount of liquefied fuel is formed that can continuously deliver the flame 354 by capillary action through the capillary space 184. It has a volume greater than or equal to a sufficient volume that can be supplied. In other embodiments, the volume of the capillary well 350 is within the capillary space 184 so that heat from the flame 354 can be delivered to the flame 354 after the solidified fuel material 311 carried in the core has burned. It is below the volume which makes it possible to melt the solidified fuel material 311 disposed at a sufficient speed.

In a further embodiment, a sufficient amount of solidified wax pool 352 is sufficient to the wick 108 until it is sufficiently melted so that it can provide sufficient flow of fuel to the wick 108 to maintain a sustained flame 354 combustion. In order to provide a source of molten fuel, good reignition can be achieved if the volume of the capillary well 350 is proportional to the heat capacity of the entire candle assembly, for example, reference number 100. The heat capacity of the candle assembly 100 is a measure of the amount of energy required to change the temperature of the entire candle in the melting dish, and is the product of the mass of each part of the candle assembly multiplied by the specific heat of that part. Equal to the sum. By way of example, the ratio of the volume of capillary well 350 to the heat capacity of the entire candle assembly is about 0.0006 cubic inches / calorie / degrees Celsius (hereinafter in ³ / cal / ° C.) (1 mm ³ / cal / ° C) to about 0.0006 in ³ / cal / ° C. (10 mm ³ / cal / ° C.), about 0.0001 in ³ / cal / ° C. (2 mm ³ / cal / ° C.) to about 0.0004 in ³ / cal / ° C. (6 mm) ³ / cal / ° C.), or about 0.00018 in ³ / cal / ° C. (3 mm ³ / cal / ° C.) to about 0.00024 in ³ / cal / ° C. (4 mm ³ / cal / ° C.) Can be achieved. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the heat capacity of the candle assembly is from about 135 cal / ° C. to about 10 cal / ° C., from about 75 cal / ° C. to about 40 cal / ° C., or from about 61 cal / ° C. to about 50 cal / ° C. The volume of 350 is about 0.006 in ³ (100 mm ³ ) to about 0.03 in ³ (500 mm ³ ), about 0.009 in ³ (150 mm ³ ) to 0.018 in ³ (300 mm ³ ), or about 0.012 in ³ ( 200 mm ³ ).

For example, the heat capacity of an embodiment of a candle assembly, such as reference number 100, is about 10.5 cal at a pre-combustion time with a support platform 102, a melting dish 202, and a wick holder 300 having a total heat capacity of about 50 cal / ° C. And a fuel element 110 consisting of about 0.53 ounces of wax having a heat capacity of / ° C. The capillary pedestal 204 has a height h1 of about 0.39 inch (10 mm) to about 0.04 inch (1 mm), or 0.2 inch (5 mm), about 1.18 inch (30 mm) to 0.39 inch ( 10 mm), or a lower radius Φl of about 0.83 inch (21 mm), an upper radius Φ2 of about 0.04 inch (1 mm) to about 0.79 inch (20 mm), or about 0.43 inch (11 mm). It has a substantially truncated cone shape. Base 116 may be between about 0.08 inches (2 mm) and about 0.83 inches (21 mm), between about 0.43 inches (11 mm) and about 0.55 inches (14 mm), or about 0.51 inches (13 mm). Upper diameter Φ3, about 1.22 inches (31 mm) to about 0.43 inches (11 mm), 0.79 inches (20 mm) to about 0.91 inches (23 mm), or about 0.87 inches (22 mm) Lower diameter Φ4, about 0.43 inch (11 mm) to about 0.08 inch (2 mm), about 0.28 inch (7 mm) to about 0.16 inch (4 mm), or about 0.2 inch (5 mm) Height h2, about 0.004 inches (0.1 mm) to about 0.04 inches (1 mm), about 0.03 inches (0.8 mm) to about 0.02 inches (0.5 mm), or about 0.02 inch (0.6mm) The frustoconical shape is substantially complementary to the capillary pedestal to which the outer peripheral skirt 126 including the height h3 from the end plate 124 to the rivet 132 is mounted. In another embodiment, the capillary pedestal 204 has a height h1 of about 0.18 inches (4.7 mm), a lower radius Φl of about 0.81 inches (20.5 mm), and about 0.44 inches (11.11). The base 126 has an upper diameter Φ3 of about 0.5 inches (12.6 mm) and a lower diameter Φ4 of about 0.85 inches (21.6 mm); It has a skirt 126 that includes a height h2 of about 0.2 inches (5.05 mm). When the base 116 is positioned at the top of the capillary pedestal 204, the end plate 124 is vertically spaced a distance of about 0.03 inch (0.65 mm) from the capillary pedestal top wall 178 and the outer skirt 126 is spaced from the side wall 206. The distance is about 0.02 inches (0.38 mm) vertically spaced. This defines a capillary well 350 having a volume of about 0.012 in ³ (200 mm ³ ).

   Referring to FIG. 9, there is shown a melting dish candle assembly 400 according to another aspect that includes a holder or base 402 and a generally concave melting dish 404 carried within a recess 406 of the base. Solid fuel elements and wick holders that are supported in a melting dish similar to those previously described herein are not shown for clarity of the present invention. The melting dish 404 is highly thermally conductive and is similar to the other melting dishes previously described herein, and includes a capillary pedestal 408 that projects upward at a centrally located core position. The base 402 includes a wall 410 extending around the melting dish 404 and disposed outward from the melting dish 404 at a zenith angle θ and having an uppermost edge, ie, a top edge 312, disposed above the melting dish. In one embodiment, the base 402 and the melting dish 404 are made of fuel that has melted or liquefied when placed in close proximity to a pool, such as when present on a wick, such as the wick 108. It has geometric dimensions that are used to substantially increase or develop laminar flow (when surrounded by a calm atmospheric environment) over the reservoir. Such laminar flow controls the overall temperature of the pool by either reducing excess flow in the pool and reducing or minimizing hot spots that are partially concentrated in the pool. This can delay the volatilization of active volatile components in the fuel, such as fragrances or insecticides, and can extend the effective fragrance period of the fuel until the fuel is completely burned. When all the fuel in the puddle has liquefied during the burning of the candle in the melting dish, the air is forced into the wall 410 by a hot chimney or updraft caused by a flame on a wick (not shown) placed on the capillary pedestal 408. It becomes a substantially laminar flow that flows over the top edge 412 and is drawn into the recess 406 over a pool of liquefied fuel such as the molten dish 404 and molten wax. The air stream rising up the hot chimney also distributes the volatilized active ingredients to the surrounding environment.

  In one embodiment, the base 402 and the melting dish 404 have geometries represented by the following equations to increase or promote substantial laminar flow.

以上の式中、
Ｐｍａｘは、溶融皿４０４の最大幅である（ｍｍ）。
Ｐｍｉｎは、溶融皿４０４の最小幅である（ｍｍ）。
ＳＡは、溶融皿４０４の投影表面積又は二次元の外形投影表面積である（ｍｍ²）。
Ｈｍｉｎは、ベース４０２の頂縁４１２における最小幅である（ｍｍ）。
Ｄｐは、溶融皿４０４のベース４０２の頂縁４１２からの深さである（ｍｍ）。
Ｄｐｍａｘは、Ｄｐの最大値である（ｍｍ）。
Ｒは、ベース４０２の頂縁の外径である（ｍｍ）。
θは、壁４１０の天頂角度である（ｄｅｇ）。

In the above formula,
Pmax is the maximum width of the melting plate 404 (mm).
Pmin is the minimum width of the melting plate 404 (mm).
SA is the projected surface area of the melting dish 404 or a two-dimensional outer shape projected surface area (mm ² ).
Hmin is the minimum width at the top edge 412 of the base 402 (mm).
Dp is the depth from the top edge 412 of the base 402 of the melting plate 404 (mm).
Dpmax is the maximum value of Dp (mm).
R is the outer diameter of the top edge of the base 402 (mm).
θ is the zenith angle of the wall 410 (deg).

  Equation 1 quantifies the approximate relationship between the projected surface area of the melting dish and the width of the melting dish within a constant upper and lower boundary to develop laminar flow. Equation 2 quantifies the approximate relationship between the projected surface area of the melting dish 404 and the depth of the melting dish 404 from the top edge 412 of the base 402 to develop laminar flow. Equation 3 quantifies the approximate relationship between the minimum melting night across the melting dish, the depth of the melting dish 404 from the top edge 412 and the zenith angle of the base wall 410 to develop laminar flow. Equation 4 quantifies the approximate minimum width at the top edge 412 of the base 402 as a function of the melting dish 404 and base geometry to develop laminar flow. Although Equations 1-4 above are described for a generally rectangular base and holder, these equations can be used for other candle assemblies such as ellipses and circles in order to approximate the optimized candle assembly dimensions. It may be used for goods. In one embodiment with a circular base and melting dish, such as base 102 and melting dish 104 shown in FIG. 4, Hmin is about 3.94 inches (100 mm), and Pmax and Pmin are both about 3.15. Equal to inches (80 mm), Dp is about 0.4 inches (10 mm), R is about 0.08 inches (2 mm), and θ is about 45 °.

   10 and 11 show a candle assembly 500. FIG. The candle assembly 500 is substantially similar to the candle assembly 400 except that it includes an alignment mechanism to ensure that the melting dish 504 is properly aligned with the base portion 502. The candle assembly 500 includes a base portion 502 and a melting dish 504 for supporting candles for religious uses, such as a combination of fuel element 110, wick holder 106, and wick 108. The base 502 is made of a non-flammable material such as glass or ceramic with low thermal conductivity, and the melting dish is made of a non-flammable material such as aluminum or other metal with high thermal conductivity, Other materials may be used. The base portion includes, at its upper end, a recess 506 defined by upstanding side walls 508 and an inner wall 510 spaced below and extending toward the side walls above the upper rim 512. The bottom of the base 502 is hollow below the inner wall 510. It will be appreciated that the particular shape and configuration of the sidewall 508 and the bottom end of the base 502 can take almost any shape and form and is not limited to the particular shapes described herein. The melting dish 504 formed in the shape of a saucer or bowl is recessed upward by forming a bottom surface substantially complementary to the recess 506 so as to be received by the recess in the operating position. Similar to that previously described herein, the melting dish 504 has a relatively flat bottom wall 514 centered with a raised or upwardly curved peripheral portion 516 adjacent to the outer periphery 518. It has a generally rectangular footprint that is surrounded by a capillary ledge (lobe) 520 that projects upward from the center of this bottom wall 518 to receive the votive candle. An alignment mechanism to ensure alignment of the melting dish 504 within the recess 506 of the base 502 is a shoulder such as a horizontal step 522 that projects inwardly from the inner side 524 of the sidewall and extends around the entire periphery of the recess 506. And a complementary ledge such as a horizontal ledge (shelf) 526 supported by the shoulder. The ledge 526 extends around the melting plate, is disposed vertically between the outer peripheral edge 518 of the melting plate 504 and the bottom wall 514, and presses the outer peripheral edge against the inner surface 524 of the side wall 508 around the entire recess 506. 522 is supported. The entire melting dish, including the capillary ledge 520 and the outer periphery 518, is located below the upper rim 512. The melting plate 504 is spaced above the inner wall 510 of the recess 506 by a raised peripheral edge 516 pressed against the inner surface 524 of the side wall 508 and a capillary ledge 520 protruding upward. The melting plate 504 is fixed to the base portion 502 by a droplet of an adhesive such as an adhesive 166 (not shown) disposed between the ledge 526 and the shoulder portion 522. The adhesive seals between the peripheral edge 518 of the melting dish 504 and the inner surface 524 of the side wall 508 so that molten wax or other liquid does not permeate under the melting dish. As the alignment mechanism, other generally complementary alignment configurations may be added or used instead. For example, the base shoulder portion may simply include one or more separately spaced step portions to provide the only possible exact alignment between the melting dish and the base, or The melting dish ledge may be formed continuously or aligned with the separated ledge portion. In one embodiment, to ensure that molten wax collects around the capillary lobe when the candle assembly 450 is placed on a flat support surface, to minimize heat loss from the molten wax to the base. , To help ensure that the melting dish 504 is positioned within the base 502 in a predetermined positional relationship such that the bottom wall 514 of the melting dish is substantially flat and spaced apart on the inner wall 510. Of course, the alignment feature may be used in other alignment configurations such as the alignment of the bottom wall 514 in contact with the inner wall 510 and the bottom wall 514 disposed at a non-horizontal angle. It may be easily changed so as to be supported in the recess. In yet another embodiment (not shown), the alignment feature is a recess that engages a complementary ledge or cavity in the melting dish 504 to provide a predetermined alignment between the base 502 and the melting dish. One or more raised protrusions disposed at any location within 506 can be included. Further, the protruding portion may be integrated with the base 502 or may be formed by an independent object such as a wire or a button (not shown) disposed in the cavity. Other alignment mechanisms (not shown) may each include at least one of an opposing complementary shoulder or ledge and no shoulder. Here, the ledge or shoulder urges the melting dish to have a predetermined alignment or orientation relative to the base.

  Retainer features for a magnet 528, such as a circular ring 530 projecting upward from the central region of the inner wall 510, are located below the cavity 532 on the bottom surface of the melting dish 504 below the capillary ledge 520. The ring 530 extends upward in the cavity 532 without engaging the bottom surface of the melting dish. The ring 530 acts as a holder for the magnet 528 in consideration of the case where the magnet 528 bonded to the melting plate 504 inside the cavity 532 is peeled off from the melting plate. In one embodiment, the ring 530 is not engaged or spaced apart from the bottom of the melting dish to minimize heat loss from the molten wax to the base. The cage is not limited to the particular circular ring shown in the drawings, but may be formed in other shapes as long as it can hold the magnet 528 in place under the capillary lobe 520. For example, the cage may be a plurality of spaced projections that partially surround the magnet 528, or the magnet may be formed to fit with projections spaced in a predetermined orientation. Good. In other examples, in addition to the shoulder 522 and ledge 526, the retainer can engage the bottom surface of the cavity 532 to assist in aligning the melting dish 504 within the recess 506. Further, the alignment and cage features are not limited to the particular base and melting plate of the present embodiment, but are disclosed herein such as base 102 and circular melting plate 104. And may be easily adapted to work with any other combination of melting dishes.

   12-14 illustrate a candle assembly 600 according to another embodiment. The candle assembly 600 includes a support 602, an optional light diffuser 604, and a controller 606. In one embodiment, the base 602 is similar or consistent with the previously described bases 102, 402, and 502, and the melting dish 608 has been described in connection with the previous embodiments. As such, it is secured within the base 602. Although not shown, the magnet may be placed under the pedestal 610, and the core clip, wick, and fuel element are removably placed on the pedestal 610 and held on them by the magnetic force deployed by the magnet. Is done.

  In other embodiments, the base 602 is made of clear or transparent glass. However, other materials having the same or different optical properties may be used.

  Disperser 604 (FIG. 14) is disposed within base 602 and, in one embodiment, fits snugly into its recess. The disperser 604 can be made from a translucent thermoplastic material that is molded by injection molding or otherwise. When the disperser 604 is made from any material that is considered to be non-adhesive to adhesion resistant materials and other objects made from either the same material and / or different materials, Geometric surface characteristics 605 are included within the disperser and can be used to adhere the disperser to other objects including, for example, the base 602 by using conventional and / or current adhesives. It becomes possible. Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 14-17, the disperser 604 includes a pair of tabs 610a and 610b depending from the left side surface 612 (as used herein, Terms such as left and right, front and rear, top and bottom, top and bottom are used for convenience only to indicate the relative arrangement of various elements and are not intended to limit the present invention). The slot 614 is disposed below the right side wall 616 of the disperser 604. With the disperser 604 tilted or angled so that the lower edge 624 of the right side wall 616 is spaced upward from the support surface 626 of the controller 606, the corresponding recesses 622a, 622b are respectively on the outside of the tabs 610a and 610b. Distributor 604 is mounted on controller 606 by placing each of the curved flanges 620a and 620b. The disperser 604 then rotates so that the lower edge 624 of the right side wall 616 descends toward the support surface 626 where it curves out of the tab 630 by hitting the inner surface 632 of the lower portion 634 of the disperser 604. The flange 628 is gradually deflected toward the center of the controller 606. A continuous downward swiveling of the disperser 604 causes the outwardly curved flange 628 of the tab 630 to enter the slot 614, where not only the lower edge 624 of the right side wall 616 of the disperser 604, but also the front surface 642, left side surface 612, and Each lower edge 636, 638, and 640 of each rear surface 644 is supported by a support surface 626.

  The disperser 604 is removed from the controller 606 by displacing the front surface 642 and the rear surface 644 so that the outwardly curved flange 628 of the tab 630 is free from interfering contact with the inner surface 632 of the lower portion 634. The direction of the right side wall 616 is deflected at least outward so as to be detached. Disperser 604 can then be pivoted upward and tabs 610a and 610b can be removed from recesses 622a and 622b, respectively.

  Specifically, referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, the disperser 604 further includes a hollow cylindrical member 650 depending from the inner surface 652 of the top wall 654. The cylindrical member 650 is a closed end where the member 650 coincides with the inner surface 652, and an open end at the lower end thereof. In one embodiment, the cylindrical member 650 is made of the same material as the disperser 604, either or both are translucent, or transparent as required. In other embodiments, but not necessarily, the lower edge 656 of the cylindrical member 650 is in contact with the flat surface 660 of the battery holder 662 of the controller 606 (see FIGS. 14, 15 and 18). Alternatively, if desired, the lower edge 656 may be spaced from the plane 660 when the disperser 604 is attached to the controller 606.

  Next, referring to FIGS. 14, 15, and 18 to 21, the battery holder 662 includes a recess for receiving four AA-size (AA) batteries 664 a to 664 d. If desired, more or less than four batteries can be provided depending on the electrical requirements.

  The batteries 664a-664d are all connected in series with the electrical components carried by the first printed circuit board 666 (FIGS. 18 and 19) and the second printed circuit board 668 (FIGS. 18, 20, and 21). Is done.

  The first printed circuit board 666 carries a number of electrical components, including an LED assembly 670 (the remainder of the electrical components carried by the printed circuit board 666 not shown for simplicity). Referring to FIGS. 18 and 19 in detail, the first printed circuit board 666 is snap-fit (elastically fastened) into the recess 672 (FIG. 19) and is held by the clips 674a and 674 (the clip 674a is shown in FIG. 18 and 19 but the clip 674b is shown in FIG. 15). Specifically, the first printed circuit board 666 moves upward and is inserted into the recess 672 until the edges 676a and 676b hit the flanges 678a and 678b that curve inside the clips 674a and 674b. The continuous upward movement of the printed circuit board 666 causes the clips 674a, 674b to move away from the flanges 678a, 678b where the edges 676a, 676b of the printed circuit board 666 are curved inward until the clip returns to its original position. The clips 674a, 674b are forced outward, thereby confining the printed circuit board 666 between the lower surface 679 of the center plane 680 of the battery holder 662 and the flanges 678a, 678b curved inward of the clips 674a, 674b. Be trapped. When the first printed circuit board 666 is mounted in this manner, the LED 670 is positioned in the opening 684 that extends through the central plane 680 of the battery holder 662.

  In one embodiment, LED 670 includes red, green, and blue light emitting diodes that are closely spaced from each other. The LED 670 is energized as described in greater detail below to develop light in variable spectral content and / or brightness. The light is transmitted through the cylindrical member 650, the remaining portion of the disperser 604, and the base 602 so that such light is viewed by an observer. In one embodiment, the current distributed to each LED 670 is controlled by such an LED 670 so as to exhibit a light intensity of a specific magnitude. There are numerous ways to control the amount of current distributed to each LED 670, but in other embodiments, pulse width modulation (PWM) operation is used to minimize battery drain. .

  Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 20 and 21, the second printed circuit board 668 is attached to each of the standoffs 692a and 692b by screws 690a and 690b. A shoulder tab 693 (FIGS. 19-21) helps maintain the placement of the second printed circuit board 668 relative to the standoffs 692a, 692b. Also, the standoff 692 is integrated or secured to the locking plate 694, which is also integrally molded or secured to the front side wall 696 of the housing 698 of the controller 606. The first to fourth switches 700a to 700d are carried by the second printed circuit board 668 and can be touched by buttons 702a to 702d (FIGS. 12 to 15, 18, 20, and 21), respectively. Includes members. By depressing one of the buttons 702a-702d, one of the cooperating switches 700a-700d is closed.

  The battery holder 662 is integral with the battery holder 662, otherwise it extends to each of the screw bosses 712a-712d secured to the battery holder 662 through each of the washers 71la-711d. The four screws 710 a to 710 d are held in the housing 698. During assembly, the outwardly curved flange 628 is defined by opposing hollow members 716a and 716b (FIGS. 18 and 19) until the outwardly curved flange 628 is in the proper position shown in FIG. A battery holder 662 is inserted into the housing 698 so as to extend through a portion of the slot 714. Thereby, the back surface 718 (FIG. 19) is supported by the upper edge 720 of the inner portion 722 of the outwardly curved flange 628 (FIGS. 18, 20, and 21). Screws 710a-710d are then inserted through the openings in housing 698 into aligned screw bosses 7122a-712d and tightened to secure battery holder 662 in the proper position shown in FIG.

   Referring now to FIGS. 18-21, as specifically shown in FIG. 19, the speaker 730 is mounted within the housing 698 by any suitable means, as specifically shown in FIG. A series of openings are provided in the central portion 732 of the lower outer circle 724 of the housing 698.

  The controller housing 698 provides support to the candle assembly 600 and is spaced from the bottom of the portion 732 so that the sound emitted by the speaker 730 can escape from the volume under the candle assembly 600. Further included are legs 740a-740d (FIGS. 13 and 19).

  22-30 illustrate another embodiment of a candle assembly 900. FIG. The candle assembly 900 includes a support base 902 having a melting plate 903 that is the same as or similar to that described in more detail in the embodiment of FIGS. (Optionally or not) including an optional light disperser 904 and a controller 906. Further description of the characteristics of the candle assembly 900 identical to that of FIGS. 12-21, 45 and 50 is omitted.

  Disperser 904 (FIG. 23) is disposed within base 902 and, in one embodiment, fits snugly into its recess. More specifically, referring to FIGS. 23 and 24, the disperser 904 includes a pair of tabs 910a, 910b depending from the left side wall 912 (as used herein, left, right, front, back, top, bottom, top and bottom Note again that the terms such as are used for convenience only to indicate the relative arrangement of the various elements and are not intended to limit the invention). Also, as shown in FIG. 25, the indentation 914 is disposed on the inner surface 915 at the bottom of the right side wall 916 of the disperser 904. Dispersor 904 is bent or angled so that lower edge 924 of right side wall 916 is spaced upwardly from support surface 926 of controller 906, and flange 920a curved outwardly of tabs 910a, 910b. , 920b is placed in the corresponding recess 922a, 922b, respectively, so that the disperser 904 is attached to the controller 906. The disperser 904 is then rotated so that the lower edge 924 of the right side wall 916 is lowered toward the support surface 926, which eventually results in the flange 928 (FIG. 23) curved out of the tab 930 being dissipated. By striking the inner surface 932 of the lower portion 934 of 904, it is gradually deflected toward the center of the controller 906. Alternatively, or in addition, the portion of the right side wall 916 itself deflects outward, allowing the flange 928 and the disperser 904 to move toward each other. As the disperser 904 continuously swivels downward, the flange 928 curved outward of the tab 930 enters the indentation 914, where not only the lower edge 924 of the right side wall 916 of the disperser 904, but also the front wall 942, Each of the lower edges 936, 938, and 940 of the left side wall 912 and the rear wall 944 are supported by a support surface 926. Note that the disperser 904 of this embodiment is not designed to be easily removed from the controller 906.

  Next, refer to FIG. 26 and FIG. The battery holder 962 is disposed on the bottom 963 of the control device 906 and includes a recess for receiving four AA size (AA type) batteries 964a to 964d. The batteries 964a to 964d are accessible only from the bottom 963 of the control device 906 through the battery door 965. As shown in FIG. 26A, the first and second extending portions 967a, 967b are controlled by tilting the battery door 965 to extend into the first and second recesses 969a, 969b of the control device 906. Mounted on device 906. Thereafter, the flexible portion 973 of the battery door 965 is inward until the flanges 975a, 975b curved outward of the tabs 977a, 977b extending from the battery door 965 are fitted into the corresponding recesses 979a, 979b of the control device 906. The battery door 965 rotates and contacts the controller 906 so that it is bent to the right. When the battery door 965 is removed for battery 964a-964d replacement or other purposes, the upwardly extending tab 981 is pressed inward, thereby causing the flexible portion 973 to bend inward and the tab 977a and 977b are pulled away from the recesses 979a and 979b, whereby the battery door 965 is removed.

  As noted above, batteries can be provided in large or small numbers depending on electrical requirements. The batteries 964a-964d are entirely in series with the electrical components carried by the first printed circuit board 966 (FIGS. 18 and 19) and the second printed circuit board 968 (FIGS. 18, 20, and 21). Connected.

  The first printed circuit board 966 carries a number of electrical components, including an LED assembly 970 (other electrical components carried by the printed circuit board 966 are not shown for simplicity). Referring to FIG. 28 in detail, during assembly, the first printed circuit board 966 is attached to the controller 906 by inserting two screws 972a, 972b into the openings 974a, 974b, where the screws 972a , 972b extends from the control device 906 into screw bosses 976a, 976b extending upward. When the first printed circuit board 966 is mounted in this manner, the LED 970 is positioned in an opening 978 that extends through the central plane 980 of the cover portion 982 of the controller 906. The LED 970 develops the same color and is spaced and energized as described with respect to the embodiments of FIGS. 12-21, 45 and 50.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 28 and 29, the cover portion 982 of the control device 906 is held on the bottom portion 963 of the control device 906 by a set of four screws 984a to 984d. A set of four screws 984a-984d extend through each of the washers 985a-985d and are either integrated into the bottom 963 or otherwise secured to the bottom 963. It extends to the inside of each of 986a to 986d.

  The second printed circuit board 968 is shown in detail in FIG. 29 and is attached to standoffs 992a and 992b by screws 990a and 990b, respectively. The standoffs 992a and 992b are integrated with or fixed to the locking plate 993. The first and second lower corners 994a, 994b (FIG. 30) of the second printed circuit board 968 are inserted into first and second slots 996a, 996b formed in the controller 906, and A second printed circuit board 968 is held inside. The first and second switches 1000a-1000d include an activation member that is carried by the second printed circuit board 968 and can be contacted by each of the buttons 1002a-1002d. By depressing buttons 1002a and 1002b, each of the associated switches 1000a and 1000b is closed. Activating and selecting the light show mode of the candle assembly 900 by depressing the first button 1002a, and further stopping the light show after scrolling through the various modes, as described in detail above. . The second button 1002b pauses or stops color transformation in the light show, thereby maintaining the currently displayed color. By depressing the second button 102b again, the operation in the selected light show mode is repeated.

  FIGS. 31 and 32 illustrate yet another embodiment of a candle assembly 1100 that can emit light or sound, but not both. Specifically, the embodiment of FIGS. 31 and 32 is the embodiment of FIGS. 12-21, 45 and 50 in region 1102 (FIG. 32) in response to actuation of buttons 1104a and 1104b. And a circuit for evolving light in the manner shown in FIG. When the button 904a is depressed, it causes the LEDs in the candle holder 110 to be energized, whereas when the button 1104b is activated, it differs as in the modes described above with respect to FIGS. 12-21, 45 and 50. In the energizing mode, the LED is ignited.

  Of course, the embodiments shown in these figures can be modified by using speakers and appropriate circuitry in place of the LEDs and circuits of FIGS. 31 and 32, such as, for example, FIG. To light may be modified by the candle assembly 1100 to generate sound, as described in the embodiments of FIGS. 21, 45 and 50. Also, any configuration and any number of switches and / or buttons may be used as needed to control the electrical components described herein. For example, a candle assembly 1100 configured to emit light and sound is configured to have three controls (not shown) disposed within the bottom 963 (or any other portion) of the controller 906. May be. A single control, such as a combination of an on / off switch and a potentiometer, can be used to turn the sound show on and off and adjust the sound volume. A first button may be provided to turn the light show on and off and allow one to select from a variety of light shows (if capable of displaying multiple light shows). (For example, to select the light show mode, the first button is depressed a specific number of times within the first period of its first depression, and then the first button continues to be depressed further after the first period. The light show can be paused by further pressing down the first button to repeat the light show and subsequently depressing the first button to select a different light show mode or stop the light show. A second button may be provided to scroll through the sound show mode, and controls, switches, and / or buttons may be located at any desired location on the candle assembly 1100. .

  Referring now to FIGS. 33-38A, a candle assembly 1200 is placed over a refill holder 1216 with a core 1208 extending therethrough and filled with fuel material 1211 placed over the refill holder 1216. A replacement unit 1202 is included. The replacement unit holder 1216 is disposed adjacent to the upper surface of the disperser 1214 disposed in the control device 1206. Since control device 1206 includes electronic components similar to those shown and described above, such electronic components are not shown and description thereof is also omitted. A light transmissive or translucent sheath 1230 is placed on the controller 1206 and surrounds the candle replacement part 1202, the replacement part holder 1216, and the disperser 1214. Three LEDs (not shown) are located above the top hole or cutout 1236 of the controller 1206. Also, locking mechanisms such as female element 1224 and male element 1226 align control device 1206 with candle replacement 1202. In this embodiment, the locking mechanism includes a female element 1224 on the bottom surface of the candle replacement portion 1202 that is complementary to a male element 1226 formed on the top surface of the replacement portion holder 1216. The coupling of the female element 1224 and the male element 1226 functionally aligns the mechanism described below to operably connect the flame 1254 disposed on the core 1208 to electrical components disposed within the controller 1206. Useful. If the locking mechanism is not necessarily required to align the various parts of the candle assembly 1200 and / or if it is not incorporated into the candle assembly (see, eg, FIG. 38), it is made of 4 ounce glass A votive candle replacement 1202 may be used with the candle assembly 1200. For example, S.M. C. Other glass vaults having various shapes and sizes, such as those manufactured by Johnson and Son, can also be used with the candle assembly 1200.

  Referring to FIGS. 33 and 36, an embodiment for detecting the presence or absence of a flame 1254 located on the core 1208 is shown. The candle assembly 1200 includes a candle replacement 1202 in which an optical fiber 1204 is disposed laterally along the core 1208. Light traveling in the direction A emitted from the flame 1254 is directed to the bottom of the replacement unit 1202 by the optical fiber 1204. The light is emitted from the optical fiber 1204 in the direction B and passes through the bottom of the replacement unit 1202 through the optical path. Light passing through the optical path is detected by a photosensitive sensor such as the photosensitive sensor 1210. The light path may be, for example, clear (transparent) glass, frosted, non-matt and / or colorless portions of colored and / or translucent candle replacements 1202, or other light transmissive media. In one embodiment, as flame 1254 melts fuel 1211, fuel, wick 1208 and / or optical fiber 1204 are consumed at a similar rate (not shown), which lowers the fuel height, As long as there is a replacement 1202, the core and the optical fiber are maintained in a spatial relationship that allows them to operate so that the optical fiber directs light from the flame on the core to the photosensitive sensor 1210.

  Although not shown, the optical fiber 1204 may be woven into the core 1208 in other embodiments. Further, the optical fiber 1204 may be coated with thermochromic ink (not shown) so that ambient light is not moved or detected by the photosensitive sensor 1210. In this embodiment, the thermal dye ink is light impermeable or light absorbing when coated or applied to the optical fiber 1204 at a first temperature (eg, about 120 ° F. to about 140 ° F.) or less. Has a sex color. When the wick 1208 is turned on, the flame 1254 heats the heat-stained ink to a second temperature that is higher than the first temperature, so that the heat-stained ink does not transmit light or absorbs light from the optical fiber. The color is changed to a color (for example, a transparent color) through which light can pass through 1204. In this embodiment, when the heat-stained ink is exposed to sufficient heat from the flame 1254, the light may travel to the photosensitive sensor 1210 via the optical fiber 1204. Thermal dye inks useful in the present invention include, for example, the inks described in US Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0160764. Additional heat dye inks useful in the present invention include, for example, the inks described in US Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0024859. Also, heat dye inks useful in the present invention include heat dye inks manufactured by Matsui International, such as Chromacolor (chromicolor (registered trademark)) inks. In further embodiments, the wick 1208 may have a transparent micro wax (eg, polyethylene and / or polypropylene) sheath (not shown) that transmits light to the photosensitive sensor 1210.

  As another embodiment similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 36, as shown in FIGS. 34 and 37, the photosensitive sensor 1210 can directly detect the flame 1254 located on the core 1208. In this manner, the core 1208 is disposed sufficiently close to the core 1208. Here, the photosensitive sensor 1210 is operably disposed on the core 1208 (eg, in or on the top 1228 of the wall 1222 of the candle replacement section 1202). The photosensitive sensor 1210 is positioned so that light having a direction C (for example) emitted from the flame 1254 is sensed by the photosensitive sensor 1210.

  In another embodiment shown in FIGS. 35 and 38, a candle assembly 1200 is shown. The candle assembly 1200 is about 1/2 inch in diameter and has a light transmissive transparent gel candle wick 1232 disposed adjacent to the wick 1208 and extending to the base of the candle changer 1202. A replacement unit 1202 is included. The light in the direction A emitted from the flame is communicated to the bottom of the replacement unit 1202 by the transparent gel candle core 1232 and passes in the direction B through the optical path of the replacement unit 1202. Next, the light passing through the optical path is detected by a photosensitive sensor 1210 disposed on or in the electronic base 1206, which puts the electrical component in the activated state and / or stopped state. In one embodiment, after initial use, the transparent gel candle wick 1232 and wax 1211 parts are mixed together to form an opaque film when solidified when cooled (not shown) at the top of the candle changer 1202. Form. The opaque film blocks or blocks light so that it does not pass through the transparent gel candle wick 1232, thereby stopping the electronic components in the controller 1206. A wax film (not shown) that does not transmit light is applied to the top of the candle refill 1202 between the production action objects, thereby preventing ambient light from being activated before using the electrical component. A light transmissive transparent gel candle core material useful in the present invention is disclosed in US Pat. No. 6,827,474. Additional light transmissive materials useful in the present invention are disclosed in US Pat. No. 6,050,812.

  Photosensitive sensor 1210 is connected to electrical components within controller 1206 via connector 1212 (eg, a wire or other device known to those skilled in the art) to activate or enable various electrical components. The Depending on the combination of optical communication technologies, for example, when the candle is ignited or misfired, the components in the optical fiber 1204, the transparent gel core 1232, the photosensitive sensor 1210, and the control device 1206 are operatively connected. May be used to activate and / or deactivate an electrical component and / or to enable the electrical component to be activated by a separate switch mechanism disclosed in the present invention. The discontinuous structural characteristics of the combination of the optical fiber 1204 and the photosensitive sensor 1210 allows the controller 1206 to be reused by multiple candle replacement units 1202.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 37, in an embodiment when the photosensitive sensor 1210 is an integral part of the candle replacement part 1202, the connector 1212 is a part of the connector 1212a that is the replacement part 1202. It is discontinuous in a state where it crosses the connection interface 1218 from the photosensitive sensor 1210 so as to connect to the connection interface 1218 at the bottom of the sensor. The connection interface 1218 is connected to a corresponding connection interface 1220 in or on a replacement holder 1216 disposed on a disperser 1214 that is integrally formed with or attached to the controller 1206. To complete the connection of the photosensitive sensor 1210 in the control device 1206 and the electronic components, the connection interface 1220 on the control device 1206 is operable to the control device 1206 via another connection section 1212b that cooperates with the disperser 1214. Connected to.

  In another embodiment shown in FIG. 38A, the candle assembly 1200 includes a candle replacement 1260, for example in the form of a pillar candle. The candle replacement 1260 includes a wick 1208 and an optical transmission and / or heat transfer element 1274 similar to those described elsewhere herein (eg, optical fiber, light pipe, thermistor, and / or Wire). In this embodiment, it is contemplated that the locking mechanism can take the form of a male thread element 1266 that corresponds to a complementary female thread element 1264. By way of example, for example, a candle changer 1260 having an internal thread element 1264 may be fitted over the external thread element 1266 of the controller 1206. Further, a flame detection sensor 1210 including, for example, a photosensitive sensor and / or a thermal sensor, may be disposed on the male threaded element 7 to detect the presence of the flame 1254 on the wick 1208. In further embodiments, an LED (not shown) may be disposed in or on the external thread element 1266.

  For example, when the photosensitive sensor 1210 is not part of the candle replacement section, the connector 1212 can be moved from the photosensitive sensor 1210 to the controller 1206 if the photosensitive sensor is attached to or disposed on a sheath 1230 (not shown). It may be connected to the electrical parts. Other thermal sensors, optical sensors, and / or thermal and photosensitive sensors other than or instead of the photosensitive sensor 1210 may be used. For example, thermal and / or photosensitive sensors useful in the present invention include those described in US Pat. No. 6,491,516. Other photosensitive sensors useful in the present invention are available from Banner Engineering Co., such as the MINI-BEAM (Minibeam®) photosensitive sensor (eg, all variations of model number SME312). Includes a photosensitive sensor. An example of an optical sensor useful in the present invention is the optical sensor described in JP 408185710A. Optical fibers and photosensitive sensors useful in the present invention include the optical fibers and photosensitive sensors described in US Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0111217. Additional optical fibers and photosensitive sensors useful in the present invention include, for example, the optical fibers and photosensitive sensors described in US Pat. No. 5,807,096. Additional optical fibers and photosensitive sensors useful in the present invention include, for example, the optical fibers and photosensitive sensors described in US Pat. No. 6,033,209. For example, additional photosensitive sensors useful in the present invention include the photosensitive sensors described in US Pat. No. 6,468,071. For example, optical fibers and photosensitive sensors useful in the present invention include the optical fibers and photosensitive sensors described in US Patent Application Publication No. 2002/0119413. Additional optical fibers and photosensitive sensors useful in the present invention include, for example, optical fibers and photosensitive sensors described in US Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0093834. Additional optical fibers and photosensitive sensors useful in the present invention include, for example, the optical fibers and photosensitive sensors described in US Pat. No. 4,804,323. Additional optical fibers and photosensitive sensors useful in the present invention include, for example, the optical fibers and photosensitive sensors described in US Pat. No. 4,477,249. Additional optical fibers and photosensitive sensors useful in the present invention include, for example, the optical fibers and photosensitive sensors described in US Pat. No. 5,921,767. Additional photosensitive sensors useful in the present invention include, for example, those described in US Pat. No. 6,050,812.

  Reference is now made to FIGS. The candle assembly 1300 supports a melting dish 1304 and is disposed on a controller 1306 that houses electrical components (not shown but similar to those described above) (glass, resin, polymer, metal, wood, A support 1316 (made of rock, hollow material, porous material, liquid-filled material, etc.). The disperser 1322 is disposed under the support base 1316. On the melting plate 1304, the lead holder 1314 holds the lead 1308 on which the flame 1354 is arranged. Three light emitting diodes (LEDs) (not shown but described above) controlled by electrical components are placed in or above a hole or cutout 1336 on the top surface of the controller 1306.

  In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 39-43, a flame 1354 is operably coupled to electrical components within the candle assembly 1300. The candle assembly 1300 includes a flame and / or thermal sensor 1310 operatively connected to a connection interface 1313 attached to the support 1316 via a connector 1312 (eg, a wire attached to the support 1316). . To complete the coupling of the thermal sensor 1310 and the electrical components in the controller 1306, the connection interface 1313 is connected to a complementary connection interface 1315 that is operatively coupled to the electrical components of the controller 1306 by a connector 1317.

  In the embodiment shown in FIG. 39, the candle assembly 1300 incorporates a thermal sensor 1310 that is in thermal communication with the melting dish 1304. The thermal sensor 1310 detects an increase in the temperature of the melting dish due to the presence or absence of the flame 1354 on the core 1308. Sensing heat with the thermal sensor 1310 causes activation or activation of electrical components disposed within the controller 1306. Once the flame 1354 is extinguished, the melting dish 1304 is cooled, which causes the thermal sensor 1310 to stop or disable the electrical components. Examples of thermal sensor 1310 include, but are not limited to, thermistors, Hall effect sensors, and / or reed switches.

  In other embodiments, as shown in FIG. 40, the candle assembly 1300 may be used to detect a change in the magnetic field that is located adjacent to the thermal sensor 1310 and cooperates with a change in the heat of the magnet 1328. A thermal sensor 1310, such as an effect sensor, is included. The thermal sensor 1310 activates, deactivates, activates and / or deactivates electrical components within the controller 1306. In this embodiment, the single magnet 1328 not only functions to hold the core holder 1314 but also functions in conjunction with the thermal sensor 1310 to link the flame 1354 in response to control of the electrical components. Additional magnets that are in direct or indirect thermal communication with the flame 1354 may be used in conjunction with the thermal sensor 1310, thereby operatively linking the flame with electrical components. In further embodiments, Hall effect sensor 1310 may be used to sense the presence or absence of lead holder 1314. For example, when the candle assembly 1300 does not have the lead holder 1314, the Hall effect sensor 1310 can sense the absence of the lead holder by the changed magnetic field of the magnet 1328. Information about the absence of the wick holder 1314 is communicated to the electrical components of the controller 1306, which then becomes an audible and / or visual reminder to prompt the user to replace the fuel element.

  Similar to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 39 and 40, FIG. 41 shows a candle assembly 1300 that includes a support plate 1320 (eg, made of glass). The support plate 1320 has a hole 1338 therethrough which allows the thermal sensor 1310 to be positioned in the vicinity of the flame 1354 or the magnet 1328, resulting in a change in heat in response to the flame or a change in the magnet's magnetic force. The sensitivity of the thermal sensor to increases.

  For example, thermal sensors useful in the present invention include those described in US Pat. No. 5,015,175. Additional thermal sensors useful in the present invention include, for example, those described in US Pat. No. 4,983,119. Additional thermal sensors useful in the present invention include, for example, those described in US Pat. No. 5,057.005.

  Another mechanism for operatively linking the flame 1354 to activation, deactivation, activation, and / or disabling of electrical components within the controller 1307 is illustrated in FIG. Here, the candle assembly 1300 includes a thermochromic strip 1318 that is mounted below the melting dish 1304 and is in thermal communication with the melting dish 1304, and a photoelectric sensor 1324. When the lead 1308 is lit, meltable fuel (not shown) melts and fills the melting dish 1304. Heat generated from the molten fuel changes the thermal dye strip 1318 from the first color to the second color. The first color of the thermal dye strip 1318 (eg, a temperature of about 100 ° F or less, about 110 ° F or less, about 120 ° F or less, about 130 ° F or less, about 140 ° F or less, or about 150 ° F or less. ) To a second collar (eg, a temperature of about 100 ° F. or higher, about 110 ° F. or higher, about 120 ° F. or higher, about 130 ° F. or higher, about 140 ° F. or higher, or about 150 ° F. or higher). The change is sensed by photoelectric sensor 1324. Photoelectric sensor 1324 emits light (eg, infrared or visible light) in the D direction from LED 1325 toward thermal dye strip 1318. The color of the light reflected in the E direction from the thermal dye strip 1318 is detected by a photosensitive cell 1327 (eg, a photoresistor and / or a photodiode) in the photoelectric sensor 1324. The connector 1312 connects the photoelectric sensor 1324 to electrical components in the control device 1306. In an embodiment similar to that shown in FIG. 44, the melting dish 1304 is formed on the surface of the support plate 1320 and the thermal dye strip 1318 is directly formed integrally with the support base 1316. This directly attached to the underside of the plate allows the thermal dye strip and the glass support plate to be in thermal communication. If desired, the emitted light may be adjusted to have a dominant wavelength (eg, in a blue spectrum) to reduce interference from ambient light. Alternatively, a full spectrum light source may be used in conjunction with a further optical filter (not shown) of the appropriate color to obtain an emitted light having a dominant wavelength.

  The above mechanism for operatively linking the flame with the activation of the various electrical components described herein is such that only one or more of these electrical components is present when the flame is present, and Only when a predetermined temperature is reached (eg, about 100 ° F or higher, about 110 ° F or higher, about 120 ° F or higher, about 130 ° F or higher, about 140 ° F or higher or about 150 ° F or higher) It is conceivable that it may have a further function of maximizing battery life so that it can be operated. Also, when the candle assembly includes a mechanism for operably linking the flame to the activation of the electrical component, the light and sound switches (eg, 700c, d and 702c, d in FIG. 18) are removed. It is possible that only voice level button sets remain on the product (eg, 700a, b and 702a, b in FIG. 18).

  Another example of a locking mechanism is shown in FIG. Here, the candle assembly 1300 has a first magnet 1328 having a first polarity disposed in a cavity 1332 on the bottom surface of the melting dish 1304 below the capillary ledge 1334. Similar to the above, the light disperser 1322 having the second magnet or iron material 1330 having the second polarity on the surface is disposed below the support base 1316 and above the control device 1306. The first polarity of the first magnet 1328 and the second polarity of the second magnet or iron material 1330 are oriented so that there is an attractive force between the two polarities that secures the support 1316 to the controller 1306. This anchoring system allows the support 1316 to be removed and cleaned and then successfully returned onto the controller 1306 without causing assembly errors.

  Referring now to FIG. 44, a candle assembly 1400 similar to the candle assembly 1300 shown in FIGS. 39-43 has a telecommunications link 1402 incorporated into a controller 1406 similar to that described above. Through which the user cooperates with the control device through the hole 1436 at or above the top surface of the control device (not shown but described above) and / or Alternatively, electrical components that exhibit the acoustic effects emitted by the speaker 1436 held in the control device can be reprogrammed. In the present embodiment, melting plate 1404 is formed on the surface of support table 1420. It is also contemplated that the melting dish can be made from any material that can sufficiently facilitate the operation of the melting dish, as described herein.

  Reprogramming electrical components that cooperate with controller 1406 via telecommunications link 1402 can be performed, for example, at the user's home, the Internet, in a store (eg, a reprogrammed kiosk or display shelf device), and / or remote locations. Through a method known to those skilled in the art. Although not shown, examples of telecommunication links that could be used in this embodiment include, for example, removable data storage media, cables, USB ports, radio frequency sensors, infrared sensors, valid Bluetooth (registered) Trademarked links, electrical inductive communication links, acoustic switches, vibration detection switches, phono jacks (e.g. connected to an iPod® (ipod) or other portable device), and Alternatively, the controller may be removably connected at the docking bay to facilitate reprogramming of the controller 1406. By providing a link 1402, it is possible to reprogram each season (eg, reprogram the Christmas sound and light theme or Halloween sound and light theme), reminding consumers to refill the candles. it can. Programs may include any sound show or light show that includes, for example, spoken language, language lessons, taped books, and / or poetry. Since the controller uses the processor to operate the light show and / or sound show, any common interface (eg, as described herein) controls the light show and / or sound show. It may be incorporated into electrical components and software. Also, a new light show and / or sound program can be downloaded and / or used by establishing an electrical connection with the controller via telecommunication link 1402 and / or depressing a series of buttons A series of interfaces can be started. Allows a user to create a personal light show and / or sound show program that can be input to the controller via an electrical communication link using a personal digital assistant, personal computer or other device, for example A software-based application program can be provided. A telecommunication link 1402 can also be placed at any suitable location on the candle assembly 1400 to facilitate its operation.

  In another embodiment shown in FIG. 54, the candle assembly 1300 includes a hall effect sensor 1310 that can be used as a communication link to enable reprogramming of electrical components (not shown) of the controller 1306. . In this embodiment, the user places a core holder-like transducer 1360 connected to a computer and / or similar device (not shown) on the capillary ledge 1334 of the melting dish 1304 via the connector 1380. . Reprogram (e.g., add, delete, encode) an encoded program that controls the light and / or sound effects of the candle assembly 1300 by changing the magnetic field in a communicable manner (e.g., binary method). And / or change) information is sent to the electrical components of the controller 1306.

  In still other embodiments, rechargeable batteries and / or AC adapters may be included to power the electrical components described herein.

  In yet other embodiments, a candle assembly (not shown) may be placed in a liquid in which the candle assembly floats on the surface of the liquid. In the present embodiment, the liquid is considered to include, for example, a puddle, a lake, a flow, a bathtub, water and / or other liquid containers.

  In other embodiments, a candle assembly (not shown) incorporating a plurality of fuel elements that may include oils and / or fragrances with different scents is contemplated. The multiple fuel elements are modular, for example, they can be incorporated together to form a single fuel element. Where the fuel elements are modular, it is believed that when the fuel elements are burned simultaneously, fuel elements of different proportions of different scents can be combined to create a particular scent and / or fragrance blend. The candle assembly can also have multiple wick holders for receipt in multiple fuel elements. In the latter embodiment, for example, a consumer may choose to simultaneously burn differently scented fuel elements on different wick holders of the same candle assembly to create a scent blend. Good. As a pre-selected combination of fuel elements, the user can use a kit containing a plurality of fuel elements with different scents, or the user can blend a personal fragrance according to personal preferences. It is further envisioned that it can be created.

  In other embodiments, external hard disks, PDAs (personal digital assistants), cell phones, flash drives that are removably installed in the control device to make changes in the light show and / or sound show of the control device 1406 , Removable data storage media (not shown), including CompactFlash memory cards and / or memory sticks. The removable device data storage medium is used in combination with the memory of the control device installed at the time of manufacture, thereby increasing the memory of the control device and thus the number of light shows and / or sound shows of the control device. Increases and becomes more complicated. In addition, removable data storage media may include, for example, spoken language, language lessons, poetry, holiday light shows and / or sound shows, light shows and / or sound shows for popular culture (eg, movies or other popular (Shows corresponding to events), international light shows and / or sound shows, specific culture light shows and / or sound shows, etc., can have any assumed range of light and / or sound information. The removable data storage medium may be reprogrammed in response to the light show and / or sound show by a personal computer or other methods known to those skilled in the art. Such a show may be pre-programmed on a removable storage medium and / or the removable storage medium may have a show and / or light and / or sound theme from one or more sources. It can be modified as needed so that it can be incorporated free of charge, paid for downloads or paid for a reservation service.

  It is envisioned that various combinations of the embodiments described herein may be available to consumers in different configurations and / or kits, for example. These configurations and / or kits include, for example, a fuel element replacement, a candle jar replacement, a removable data storage medium, instructions, a software-based application program (including, for example, those previously described), Includes batteries, replacement parts, and customizable elements, which further include decals, paints, stickers, letters, numbers, figures, and combinations thereof. Also contemplated configurations and / or kits include holiday themes, event themes (eg, birthdays, special days, sporting events, movies, and other popular entertainment), private themes, etc. Can have. The kit may have a complete candle assembly and accessories associated with the candle assembly, and the kit may include a candle assembly (e.g., melting plate, battery, fuel element, removable data storage). It may be oriented towards individual components (such as media).

  The various mechanisms disclosed herein for operatively linking a flame to the activation of various electrical components can be incorporated into any of the described candle assemblies or any variation thereof. Can be configured. For example, referring to FIGS. 45-49 (shown in FIGS. 18-21 which are shown in common in all embodiments described herein having a controller for storing electrical components). The components on the printed circuit boards 666 and 668 are interconnected to the speaker 730 and batteries 664a-664d (see FIGS. 14 and 15) in a conventional manner as shown. Circuits located on printed circuit boards 666 and 668 include a processor 800 (see FIGS. 45-49) such as a microprocessor manufactured by Holtek Semiconductor Inc. under part number HT86192. Including. The processor 800 can selectively illuminate the LEDs 670 (including the green LED 670a, the red LED 670b, and the blue LED 670c) and / or play digitally encoded sound via the speaker 730. Are programmed to respond to activation of switches 700a-700d or auxiliary switches described below. In one embodiment, when the switch 700c is momentarily closed, the processor 800 causes the LED 670 to operate in one of the four modes of operation described in detail below. When the switch 700d is momentarily closed, the processor 800 develops an analog waveform distributed to the speaker 730 in order to reproduce one of the four sound patterns. By closing the switch 700a or 700b, the volume reproduced by the speaker 730 is increased or decreased.

  In one embodiment, the processor 800 is further responsive to a detection circuit 802 that determines when the combined voltage output by the series of connected batteries 664a-664d falls below a predetermined level.

  Next, referring to FIG. 46, the auxiliary switch incorporated in the circuit includes an optical sensor 1210 and / or a thermal sensor 1310. Optical sensor 1210 and / or thermal sensor 1310 cooperate with switches 700a-d and detection circuit 802 to control selective illumination of LED 670 and / or digitally encoded via speaker 730. In order to reproduce the reproduced sound, it is interconnected with the electrical components of the controller via the processor 800.

  In addition to heat and / or light detection methods, a voice detection sensor, such as a Clapper® acoustically activated switch, is disclosed to activate and / or deactivate electrical components within the controller 1206. May be used independently of, or connected to, any of the embodiments disclosed herein, including any photodetection switch method. Possible voice detection sensors may include a microphone operatively associated with an electronic filter (eg, an ASIC and / or digital signal processor) or other combination of electrical components. Functionally, the audio detection mechanism can restart the light show and / or sound show from the previous settings, or turn the current selection on and / or off. In another embodiment, a continuously encoded speech sequence simulates the operation of each switch 700700a-d. Acoustic switches useful in the present disclosure include the switches described in US Pat. No. 5,493,618. For example, additional useful acoustic switches include those described in US Pat. No. 5,615,271.

  In one embodiment, the voice detection sensor 1800 is interconnected to the processor 800 in the same manner as the sensor shown in FIG. 46, as shown in FIG. In one embodiment, software known to those skilled in the art can perform audio detection, and then the displayed audio detection box 1802 includes a signal conditioner (not shown) and an analog / digital converter. (Not shown).

  FIG. 48 is a schematic diagram showing a circuit configuration for the embodiment shown in FIG. Here, the photoelectric sensor 1324 emits a light beam in the D direction from the LED 1325, and the light beam is reflected in the E direction from the thermal dyeing strip 1318 through the support plate 1320. The reflected light is detected by the photosensitive cell 1327 in the photoelectric sensor 1324 that cooperatively adjusts the processor 800 connected to the switches 700a-700d and the detection circuit 802.

  FIG. 49 illustrates the interconnection of the electronic communication link 1402 and the processor 800, which enables processor reprogramming via the electronic communication link to change the light show and / or sound show program.

50 to 53 are flowcharts showing the operation of the processor 800 in response to the execution of the program stored in the processor 800. Block 810 performs sleep and / or operation in the sleep mode so that most of the functions of processor 800 are performed except for circuitry for detecting whether the battery has just been replaced and is receiving sufficient voltage. Stopped. This operation is illustrated by block 812, which checks to determine if the battery voltage is low. If the battery voltage is low, control returns to block 810 until the combined battery voltage exceeds a predetermined level. When the combined battery voltage exceeds a predetermined level, a series of blocks 814, 816, 818 and 820 determine which button of buttons 702a-702d has been depressed. If any of blocks 814, 816, 818, and 820 determines that any of buttons 702a-702d has been depressed, control proceeds to one of a series of blocks 814, 816, 818, and 820. Specifically, if block 814 determines that sound button 702d has been depressed, block 822 plays the sound effect encoded according to the table stored in processor 800. If block 816 determines that light button 702c has been depressed, a light effect such as a light show determined by a table stored in processor 800 is played by suitably energizing LED 670.

Sound button 702d and light button 702c cause processor 800 to encounter no sound or light conditions via different sound and light effects. In one embodiment, the selection of a particular light effect is independent of the sound effect in the sense that it does not result in the selection of a particular sound effect. The reverse is also true. In one embodiment, the instantaneous depression of the sound button 702d causes the processor 800 to operate as follows.
No Sound => Sound 1 => Sound 2 => Sound 3 => Sound 4 => No Sound Similarly, the processor 800 receives the following sequence by depressing the light button 702c momentarily many times. .
No write => write sequence 1 => write sequence 2 => write sequence 3 => write sequence 4 => no write

  Note that the processor need not receive the same number of sound sequences and light sequences. Also, the number of sound sequences and light sequences may be more or less.

  If it is determined that the volume up button 702a or the volume down button 702d is depressed, blocks 826 and 828 respectively increase or decrease the level of the sound emitted from the speaker 730.

  Control from block 822, 824, 826 or 828 is passed to block 830, which checks to see if the candle assembly controller 606 has been operating for a predetermined time, eg, 3 hours. If so, control returns to block 810. Otherwise, a check is made to determine if both the sound function and the light function are in the off state. If so, control proceeds to block 810, otherwise control is passed to block 812, which checks to determine if the combined voltage of battery 664 is above a predetermined level.

  In one embodiment, LED 670 operates to provide a plurality of light shows that can be individually selected by the user. For example, each of LEDs 670a-670c receives one of 256 individual current values at any particular time, thereby allowing 256 colors at that time for the color emitted by a particular LED 670. One development of the light brightness level can occur. Since the LEDs 670 are small and closely spaced from each other and the light developed thereby is dispersed, the human eye perceives the combined colors as opposed to the individual colors emitted by the LEDs 670. . Thus, in such an embodiment, the LED can exhibit about 16.7 million colors. Obviously, a separate energization method is used, which may display an excess or undercolor number (including an infinite number of colors) if necessary.

  As illustrated, the processor 800 may be programmed to display a certain number of light shows. In that case, light shows can be individually selected by depressing button 702c until a particular color is displayed, indicating that the desired light show has been selected. The light show can then proceed automatically by changing or “morphing” the displayed color between both from one color to the next. For example, a reddish orange color is initially displayed for about 7 seconds, and then changes to an orange color by transition, then changes to a bright yellow orange color, and again returns to a reddish orange color. Each color is displayed, for example, for a duration of 14 seconds, with a 10 second transition interval between 14 seconds and 14 seconds. The brightness of the LED can vary linearly or non-linearly with respect to the transition interval between the start and end levels. If necessary, the display period of 14 seconds may have a different period. In fact, the length from period to period may be constant or may vary. Further, the 10-second interval may be longer or shorter, and the interval may be constant or may vary. As a further example, orange is displayed for the first 6 seconds, disappears for the next 6 seconds, and yellow continues for 12 seconds. This is then colorless for 6 seconds and then green for 12 seconds. Colorlessness continues for another 6 seconds, blue and pink are maintained for 12 seconds in succession, followed by colorlessness for 6 seconds and then orange for 6 seconds, and the entire cycle is repeated. Any other morphing of any number of colors can be handled as needed.

  The user is provided with a means for pausing or stopping color morphing so that the currently displayed color can be maintained by depressing the pause or stop button. For example, two buttons are provided, and the first button is configured to activate a light show when first depressed by a user and to scroll from light show to light show by subsequent depression. A first button is provided. After passing through the final light show mode, the light show is stopped by depressing the first button. When pressed during a light show color morphing, the second button may be configured to pause or stop the color morphing in the currently displayed color. When the second button is depressed again, the light short color morphing is continued from the time when the light show is paused or stopped. By depressing the first button during the pause or stop mode, the light effect can operate in the final light show mode, allowing the light effect to proceed to the next light show with continuous color morphing. If so, the light effect ends.

  FIG. 51 is a flowchart showing a program executed by a processor of an embodiment including a light detection sensor (FIGS. 33 to 38), except for an embodiment including a thermal staining strip described below. Unlike FIG. 50, block 834 arbitrates between block 812 and block 814 to determine if the candle is lit. If the candle has not been ignited, control returns to block 810. Otherwise, if the candle has been ignited and any of the blocks 814, 816, 818 or 820 determines that any of the buttons 702a-702d has been depressed, then the control passes through a series of block blocks 822. , 824, 826 or 828. If the candle is lit and none of blocks 814, 816, 818, or 820 determines that any of buttons 702a-702d has been depressed, control is passed to block 832.

  FIG. 52 is a flowchart showing the operation of the voice detection sensor in the light show and / or sound show control. Block 836 determines whether a remote “on” request (eg, an audible command or other audio signal) has occurred. If a remote “on” request has occurred, control proceeds to block 840 to determine if a remote “off” request has occurred. If a remote “off” request occurs, control returns to block 810. If no remote “off” request has occurred, control is passed to block 830. If none of blocks 814, 816, 818 or 820 determines that any of buttons 702a-702d has been depressed, control is sent to block 836 rather than block 810 as shown in FIG. .

  FIG. 53 is a flowchart showing the operation of the optical sensor 1324 used in combination with the thermal dyeing strip 1318 as well as the operation of the thermal sensor (eg, the thermal sensor as described above). This flowchart shows that if none of blocks 814, 816, 818, or 820 determines that any of buttons 702a-702d has been depressed, control returns to block 830 and the system operates for 10 minutes. 50 is the same as the flowchart of FIG. 50 except that it is determined whether or not the light show and / or the sound show has been reproduced. If 10 minutes of activity have not occurred, control returns to block 832. Block 832 determines whether any control button has been depressed, and if the button has not been depressed, control returns to block 810, and if the button has been depressed, control returns to block 812. If 10 minutes of activity has occurred as determined by block 830, control returns to block 834 to test whether the candle has ignited. If the candle was lit, control returns to block 832; otherwise, control returns to block 810. This 10-minute operation timeout characteristic is only illustrated to illustrate the present invention. However, it can be envisaged that this timeout period may be of an appropriate length of time for the required operation of the control device in conjunction with the flame sensor or other control mechanism.

  Returning to FIG. 55, a candle assembly 1500 according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown. The candle assembly 1500 includes a base 1502 that includes one or more light sources such as light emitting diodes (LEDs), a power source, an ignition circuit within the power source, and / or a controller 1506 for activating the light assembly 1504. Since the control device 1506 includes electronic components similar to those already illustrated and described, illustration or description thereof is omitted. The light assembly 1504 may also include any configuration of LEDs and circuits as described herein. However, tri-color LEDs can be used in combination with any of the embodiments shown herein.

  The cylindrical hollow light pipe or replacement holder 1508 has a side wall 1510 that defines an internal space 1512. A circular upper wall 1514 extends across the top end of the side wall 1510. At least a part of the optical assembly 1504 and the control device 1506 is disposed in the internal space 1512. The side wall 1510 and the top wall 1514 are formed from a highly light transmissive material such as glass and / or polymer resin, whereby the hollow light pipe 1508 in one embodiment is transparent, in other embodiments Translucent. The base 1502 carries the hollow light pipe 1508 by any suitable method such as being integrally formed (with the base) at the lower end 1515 of the light pipe 1508 or attached by a ledge or bracket.

  A candle replacement 1516 is provided that includes a cylindrical container 1518 in which a wick 1520 and fuel material 1522 are disposed. The bottom end 1524 of the container 1518 is supported by the top wall 1514 during operation. In the embodiment, the container 1518 includes a glass material and is formed in a cylindrical shape. The fuel material 1522 includes any known gel, fluid, or solid material used as a fuel. In the present embodiment, the fuel material 1522 is S.I. C. Contains a glass similar to the glass votive candle replacement sold by Johnson & Son (SC Johnson & Sun). However, candle refills are different in size and shape, and other candle replacements having containers made of a light transmissive material other than glass can be used in the candle assembly 1500 of the present invention.

  A sheath 1526 made of a transparent or translucent light transmissive material surrounds the hollow light pipe 1508 and is carried by the base 1502. The sheath 1526 is disposed on the base 1502 such that the inner surface 1528 of the sheath 1526 is radially spaced from the hollow light pipe 1508. Specifically, the sheath 1526 extends upwardly around and beyond the light pipe 1508 and the candle changer 1516. FIG. 55 shows a generally cylindrical sheath 1524 having a diameter that varies around its axial length. In another embodiment, the inner surface 1528 of the sheath 1526 and the side wall 1510 of the light pipe 1508 are similarly shaped so as to provide a substantially constant distance between each other. For example, in one embodiment, the sidewall 1510 of the hollow light pipe 1508 and the inner surface 1528 of the sheath 1526 are generally rectangular, and in other embodiments, both are generally cylindrical, spherical, triangular, or otherwise. For example, it may have the same shape. In still other embodiments, the distance between the hollow light pipe 1508 of the sheath 1526 and the inner surface 1528 can also vary somewhat, such as by placing a cylindrical light pipe within the spherical or rectangular inner surface of the sheath. Comes out. In other embodiments, the sheath 1526 is omitted entirely.

  In use, as described above, the controller 1506 is used to activate or deactivate one or more lights of the light assembly 1504. When the light assembly 1504 is activated, light is transmitted through various locations on the side wall 1510 and top wall 1514 of the light pipe 1508. Next, the light transmitted through the light pipe 1508 is transmitted through one or more of the sheath 1526 and the candle replacement unit 1516. Light diffused by the candle changer 1516 is transmitted through one or more of the container 1518 and the fuel material 1522. In this embodiment, light transmission through the wax fuel material 1522 is impossible. The visible properties of the light diffused through the candle replacement 1516 can cause the particles of light transmissive wax material to be light reflective and / or light absorbing by providing a wax material that allows light transmission. It can be altered by suspending and / or by coloring the light transmissive wax fuel material 1522. The effects of the various light dispersions described in relation to the various dispersers described in detail above can be supported in the present embodiment as well.

  In other service conditions, the wick 1520 of the candle changer 1516 is ignited and the fuel material 1522 is used up after a certain period of time. By igniting the candle, the flame appears in and out of the cylindrical container 1518. The light from the flame is transmitted through one or more of the candle replacement unit 1516 and the sheath 1526, and exhibits various light dispersion effects similar to those described above. However, if the candle replacement 1516 is ignited in combination with one or more lights of the light assembly 1504, the effect of light mixing is also apparent. In one embodiment, light from candle replacement 1516 is used to provide a light show with higher intensity or brighter or one of sidewall 1510, candle replacement 1516 and sheath 1526. The “brightness” that can be used to compensate for the loss in light intensity from the light assembly when light travels through one or more can be increased. In another embodiment, the light emitted from the flame of the candle replacement unit 1516 exhibits a blinking effect such that the intensity and the position of the light change randomly over a period of time. When light from the flame is emitted through the candle replacement 1516 and the sheath 1526, this light is mixed with the relatively constant emission from the candle assembly 1504, thereby emitting light from the candle assembly 1500. Changes in the intensity of the emitted light. In another embodiment, the light from the candle replacement unit 1516 is mixed with the light from the light assembly 1504 to provide a color transition effect. Visible light emitted from the candle changer 1516 produces a first color, visible light emitted from the light assembly 1504 produces a second color, and these colors are mixed and visible to the user. A third color is generated. The color transition effect can be achieved by changing the visible light emitted from one or both of the candle replacement 1516 and the light assembly 1504 and / or any of the sidewall 1510, the candle replacement 1516, or the sheath 1526. It can be adjusted by changing the coloration.

  FIG. 55A shows a candle assembly 1500 'similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 55, except that the light pipe 1508' does not include a top wall. Suitably, the top end of the light pipe 1508 ′ is such that the light transmitted by the light assembly 1504 is transmitted directly through the top end 1530 of the light pipe 1508 ′ to the bottom end 1524 of the candle replacement 1516. Part 1530 is open. Similarly, light is transmitted through sidewall 1510 and sheath 1526.

  The embodiments shown in FIGS. 55 and 55A can be modified in light of the disclosure of various other embodiments described herein. Any of the electronic or structural components described with respect to the above-described embodiments described with respect to FIGS. 55 and 55A can be included in the disclosure of this embodiment. For example, the parts and structure related to the light show or sound show, the structure related to the locking mechanism between the candle and the assembly, the use of sensors, the time sequence for the light show or sound show, etc. are described in this embodiment and below. It can be used in connection with other embodiments.

  FIG. 56 shows a different embodiment of a candle assembly 1600. In this embodiment, light pipe 1602 includes a cylindrical side wall 1604 extending from base 1606. A circular wall 1608 extends across the inner middle portion 1610 of the side wall 1604. The bottom end 1612 of the candle changer 1614 is disposed on the circular wall 1608 during operation. The portion of the side wall 1604 that extends upward from the wall 1608 around the candle replacement 1614 acts as a retaining wall 1616. Accordingly, the candle replacement 1614 is disposed within a gap 1618 defined by the wall 1608 and the retaining wall 1616 to stably hold the candle replacement 1614 in use. The candle replacement unit 1614 of this embodiment is an S.I. C. A columnar candle similar to Glade® Candles made by Johnson & Son (SC Johnson & Sun). However, any candle is used in this embodiment, for example, by using a candle placed in a glass container or other transparent or translucent container by inserting it into the gap 1618. be able to. In operation, the light assembly 1620 connected to the controller 1622 disposed within the hollow portion 1624 of the light pipe 1602 transmits light via the light pipe 1602 and the candle changer 1614. In other embodiments, the candle replacement may be partially light transmissive or completely light opaque. The height of the holding wall 1616 may be changed so as to cover all or only a part of the candle replacement part 1614. By changing the height of the holding wall 1616, countless lighting effects can be achieved when the light transmitted through the candle replacement section 1614 is mixed with the light transmitted through the light pipe 1602. In addition, the holding wall 1616 is provided with the same thickness as the holding wall 1616 or other parts of the replacement unit holder 1602 or a different thickness from the other, that is, has an outer shape, thereby changing light transmission. Properties are provided. For example, the distal end 1626 of the retaining wall 1616 is provided with a portion 1628 where the flame burns outwards, which can impart a sensuous and pleasant light diffusion characteristic.

  FIG. 56A shows a candle assembly 1600 'similar to the embodiment described in connection with FIG. However, the holding wall 1616 ′ of the present embodiment has a uniform cross section along its entire length in the axial direction. Also, a light transmissive or translucent sheath 1630 similar to the sheath described with respect to FIGS. 55 and 55A is supported by the base 1606 of the candle assembly 1600 and around the replacement holder 1602 and the candle replacement 1614. Extend upward.

  When applying some embodiments shown in FIGS. 55-56A, the candle replacements 1516, 1614 are blocked from view by light emitted from each of the light assemblies 1504, 1620. In particular, referring to FIG. 56A, the height of the sheath 1630 extends beyond the top end 1632 of the candle changer 1614. In use, light from the optical assembly 1620 is emitted through the sheath 1630 over the entire length of the sheath 1630. The light transmitted through the sheath 1630 provides a glowing or lighting effect to the candle replacement unit 1614 by blocking all or part of the candle replacement unit 1614. In one embodiment, the sheath 1630 prevents a person looking from the sheath when the candle assembly 1600 'is in operation from seeing the body 1634 of the candle replacement 1614. In other embodiments, the viewer can see only a portion of the candle replacement section 1614 or not the candle replacement section 1614 at all. The manner in which the viewer sees through the sheath 1630 is described in terms of the candle replacement when viewed along a visual line substantially transverse to the axial length of the sheath 1630 between the bottom and top ends 1636, 1638 of the candle assembly 1600 ′. The view of portion 1614 is considered to be partially obstructed. In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, the height of at least one of the light pipe or sheath is adjusted so that it can extend to at least the top end of the candle replacement. This allows the transmission of light from the light source to block all or part of the candle replacement. The candle replacement also includes a column candle or fuel material disposed within the container or any other type of candle replacement disclosed in the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 57, a candle assembly 1700 is shown. In this embodiment, light pipe 1702 includes a cylindrical side wall 1704 that extends from base 1706. The upper wall 1708 extends across the top end 1710 of the side wall 1706. The top wall 1708 includes a recess 1712 defined by a curved annular outer peripheral wall portion 1714, an annular intermediate wall portion 1716, and a truncated spherical inner wall portion 1718. The concave portion 1712 has a varying depth. For example, the concave portion 1712 is deeper at a position adjacent to the intermediate wall portion 1716 than either the outer peripheral wall portion 1714 or the inner wall portion 1718. A candle replacement unit 1720 similar to the candle replacement unit 1502 described above is also provided. The bottom end 1722 of the candle replacement part 1720 is inserted into the recess 1712 of the top wall 1708. In one embodiment, the bottom end 1722 of the candle replacement 1720 is contoured to align with the outer peripheral wall 1714, the annular intermediate wall 1716, and the truncated spherical inner wall 1718 of the top wall 1708. This provides stability to the candle assembly 1700 in use. In operation, the LED assembly 1724 disposed in the interior hollow portion 1726 of the light pipe 1702 and operated by the controller 1728 transmits light through the light pipe 1702 and the container 1730 of the candle changer 1720.

  Referring now to FIG. 58, a candle assembly 1800 is shown that is similar to the candle assembly 1500 shown in FIG. 55, with similar components provided by the same reference numerals. However, this embodiment does not position the optical assembly 1504 within the interior space 1512 of the light pipe 1508. Rather, the bottom end 1802 of the sidewall 1510 is positioned directly adjacent to or over one or more LEDs of the light assembly 1504. In this embodiment, bottom end 1802 includes an annular portion 1804 that is adjacent to base 1502 and has a larger diameter than other annular portions 1806 of sidewall 1510. Due to the change in diameter between the two annular portions 1804, 1806, there is a recess 1808 for receiving a plurality of equally spaced LEDs (two LEDs are shown in FIG. 58 as LEDs 1810a and 1810b). Provided. In a different embodiment, the side wall 1510 has a uniform cross section similar to the side wall shown in FIG. Positioned within 1502. A circular top wall 1514 that extends across the top end of the side wall 1510 is integrally connected to the top end of the side wall 1510 by a curved light transition portion 1812. In the present embodiment, the curved transition portion 1812 includes a rounded corner, and changes the direction of light transmitted along an angle of at least 90 degrees that is disposed at a connection portion between the side wall 1510 and the upper wall 1514. be able to. Curved transition 1812 retains an inner diameter that is at least equal to or twice the thickness of the adjacent portion of sidewall 1510 and a large portion of light in light pipe 1508 along curved transition 1812. The outer diameter has at least the same outer shape as the total thickness of the inner diameter + side wall 1510. Further, the curved transition portion 1812 has a thickness at or near the side wall 1510 that is larger than the thickness at or near the upper wall 1514. In other embodiments, the curved transition 1812 includes a connection having a square corner, a flat diagonal surface, and / or a plurality of flat and / or curved facets.

  In use, the control circuit 1506 is used to activate and deactivate one or more of the lights of the light assembly 1504. When the light assembly 1504 is activated, light is incident on the bottom end 1802 of the side wall 1510 and a portion of the light is transferred through the side wall 1510 toward the top wall 1514. Light that has migrated through the side wall 1510 and the top wall 1514 of the light pipe 1508 exits the light pipe 1508 along these locations at various locations, similar to the above, and the sheath 1526 and / or candle replacement. Pass through part 1516. As just described, by combining the sheath 1526, the hollow light pipe 1508, the candle replacement 1516, and the light assembly 1504, a relatively small number as viewed through the sheath 1526 in the manner described above. Can be used to create a larger, relatively uniformly diffused light show or effect. Furthermore, each of the inner surface 1814 and / or the outer surface 1816 of the hollow light pipe 1508 can be smooth polished, wrinkled and / or matted by sandblasting etc. to form a uniformly diffused surface. As a result, the ability to distribute light diffused through the sheath 1526 can be further enhanced. Further, the frosted surface can also hide the controller 1506 from being viewed from an external location, further enhancing the aesthetic effect of the candle assembly 1800.

  Numerous changes can be made to other candle assemblies as well as the candle assembly 1800 disclosed herein, regardless of the location of each light assembly. For example, a sheath having a uniform cross-section in the axial length can provide light of relatively uniform brightness with minimal changes made between high and low brightness areas along the entire surface of the sheath. Can provide a larger area that can pass through. In different embodiments, each of the inner surface 1528 and / or the outer surface 1818 of the sheath 1526 can be smooth polished, wrinkled, and / or frosted. In yet another embodiment, the outer surface 1818 adjacent the bottom end 1820 of the sheath 1526 is polished to a length sufficient to facilitate color mixing from variously colored light, This part is matted to make the light diffusion more uniform. In other embodiments, the light source is additionally or alternatively disposed under the bottom end 820 of the sheath 1526. Also, the hollow light pipe 1508 and / or the portion of the sheath 1526 includes an opaque cross-section such as, for example, paint, etching and / or decals, and an index design visible in the light shown through the sheath 1526. Or other visible outlines may be formed. For example, the light pipe 1508 is covered by a thin-walled partially translucent plastic rod or paper cover (not shown) that has been printed, embossed, and / or surface-treated, thereby providing a controller 1506. And helping to transfer the visual design to the sheath 1526. The cover is removable so that different designs can be applied to the candle assembly 1800. In addition, the controller 1506 can process to reduce shadows or spots of light projected therefrom. This treatment includes, for example, reflected light blocking material, partially translucent material, surface scuffing and / or sandblasting.

  Referring now to FIG. 59, another candle assembly 1900 is shown that is similar to the candle assembly 1600 shown in FIG. However, this embodiment does not position the optical assembly 1620 within the hollow portion 1624 of the light pipe 1602. Rather, the bottom end 1902 of the sidewall 1604 is positioned so as to be directly adjacent to or covering one or more LEDs of the light assembly 1620, as described above in connection with FIG. Is done. In one embodiment, a plurality of equally spaced LEDs are disposed within a recess 1904 in the interior 1906 of the sidewall 1604 adjacent to the bottom end 1902 (FIG. 59 shows LEDs 1908a and 1908b. ing). A circular wall 1608 extending across the inner intermediate portion 1610 of the sidewall 1604 is integrally connected to the inner intermediate portion 1610 of the sidewall 1604 by a curved light transition 1910.

  FIG. 59A shows a candle assembly 1900 'similar to the embodiment described with respect to FIGS. 56A and 59. FIG. However, the retaining wall 1616 'described with respect to FIG. 56A and the light transmissive or translucent sheath 1630 are combined in the arrangement of the optical assembly 1620 described with respect to FIG.

  A candle assembly 1900 ″ according to yet another embodiment is shown in FIG. 59B. The candle assembly 1900 '' is substantially similar to the candle assembly 1900 'except that a plurality of circumferentially spaced struts 1912 extending upward from the upper end 1914 of the retaining wall 1616' are added. The struts 1912 have a plurality of different heights, and each strut 1912 is angled to reflect a portion of the light from the light assembly 1720 radially outward toward the sheath 1630. Including an oblique upper end. When viewed through the sheath 1630, the hollow light pipe 1602 is a plurality of areas of high-intensity light or “hot spots” arranged at different heights, reminiscent of an urban skyline in one embodiment. You can play the effect. Also, the arrangement of the LEDs 1908a and 1908b of the light assembly has been modified to describe yet another possible configuration included by the present disclosure. The LEDs 1908a and 1908b are disposed in the base 1606 such that light transmitted through these LEDs is incident on the end surface 1918 of the sidewall 1604 before being transmitted through the candle assembly 1900 ''.

  FIG. 60 shows a different embodiment of a candle assembly 2000. FIG. In this embodiment, the base 2002 includes a cylindrical portion having an annular peripheral wall 2004 extending from the top end 2006. The light pipe 2008 includes a cylindrical side wall 2010 that extends upward from the top end 2006 of the base 2002. The circular wall 2012 extends across the top 2014 of the side wall 2010. A light assembly 2016 and controller 2018 similar to those described herein are also provided in the candle assembly 2000. In the present embodiment, the control device 2018 is provided in the internal space 2020 of the light pipe 2008, and the light assembly 2016 including the two LEDs 2022a and 2022b is provided in the base 2002 in the same manner as the LEDs shown in FIG. 59B. Be placed.

  The embodiment shown in FIG. 60 includes a candle replacement 2024 similar to the column candle described above. Candle replacement 2024 includes a body 2026 that includes wax fuel material 2028 and a wick 2030 that extends upwardly from the top end 2032 of candle replacement 2024. However, the candle replacement portion 2024 of the present embodiment has a hollow cylindrical shape within a main body 2026 that extends from the bottom end 2036 of the candle replacement portion 2024 to a part of the candle replacement portion 2024 under the core 2030. It also includes a portion 2034, ie, a cavity. The inner diameter and inner height of the hollow portion 2034 are dimensioned to be approximately the same as each of the diameter and height of the sidewalls so that the candle replacement 2024 can be placed throughout the light pipe 2008. Is done. In other embodiments, at least one diameter of the side wall 2010 and the hollow portion 2034 is adjusted to provide a clearance or interference fit between the light pipe 2008 and the hollow portion 2026, thereby defining the hollow portion 2026. Is done. In another embodiment, the height of at least one of the side wall 2010 and the hollow portion 2034 is such that the bottom end 2036 of the candle replacement 2024 is, for example, the top end 2006 of the base 2002 as shown in FIG. Adjusted to be supported by. Further, the outer diameter of the candle replacement section 2024 is appropriately sized so that it is located at the top end of the base 2002 and within the annular wall 2004. Similarly, at least one of the outer diameter of the candle changer 2024 or the diameter of the annular wall 2004 is adjusted to provide a clearance fit or an interference fit between the outer wall 2038 and the annular wall 2004 of the candle changer 2024. obtain.

  In operation, light is transmitted through the end surface 2040 of the sidewall 2010 before being transmitted through the candle replacement 2024 and the top 2014 of the sidewall 2010. The candle changer 2024 is substantially light transmissive and its transparency can be varied by those skilled in the art to change the light intensity of the candle assembly 2000 of the present invention. Further, the visible properties of light diffused through the candle replacement 2024 can be altered by suspending particles within the wax material 2028 and / or by changing the color of the wax material 2028. it can. It can also be envisaged that this embodiment may be modified to include any of the structures or functions of any of the embodiments disclosed herein. For example, the sheath includes a candle assembly 2000 that extends upward from the base 2002 to the periphery of the candle replacement 2020. In different embodiments, the light assembly may be provided within the hollow portion 2020 of the light pipe 2008, similar to the original described in connection with FIGS. In yet other embodiments, a container is provided to hold and / or support the candle replacement 2024 in whole or in part. In yet another embodiment, the one or more wicks are from a region adjacent to the bottom end 2036 of the candle changer 2024 that is spaced from the outer wall 2038 of the candle changer 2024 and the side wall 2010 of the light pipe 2008. Extend upward. In use, the one or more wick flames are at the same height as the side wall 2010 and are sufficiently away from the side wall to prevent the flame from quenching or damaging the side wall 2010 by burning or soot accumulation. Spaced apart.

  It will be understood that the terminology used in the present invention is not intended to limit the present invention in nature, but only to explain it. All patents, published patent applications, and other references disclosed herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. The various components of the various candle assemblies described herein can be as unassembled kits that include all or part of the components, as individual components, and / or combinations thereof. May be packaged. Different or various combinations of the components described herein of various candle assemblies may also be used in the devices, methods, kits, or combinations thereof described herein. encourage

   The candle assembly disclosed in the present invention is used to support votive candles such as the fuel elements described herein. Sound and / or light characteristics can be added and controlled to provide a pleasant experience for the user.

  In view of the foregoing description it will be evident to a person skilled in the art that numerous modifications may be made. Accordingly, the above description is for illustrative purposes only.

FIG. 1 is an exploded isometric view showing a candle assembly according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is an enlarged isometric view showing the lead holder shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the fuel element as viewed along line 3-3 in FIG. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the assembled candle assembly taken substantially perpendicular to the line 3-3 in FIG. FIG. 5 is an enlarged partial sectional view taken along line 5-5 in FIG. FIG. 6 is an enlarged isometric view showing a core holder and a part of a melting dish according to another embodiment. FIG. 7 is an isometric view showing yet another core holder according to another embodiment. 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the core holder of FIG. 7 in the same manner as that shown in FIG. FIG. 9 is an isometric view illustrating a candle assembly according to another embodiment. FIG. 10 is an exploded isometric view showing a candle assembly according to yet another embodiment. FIG. 11 is an exploded cross-sectional view of the candle assembly of FIG. 10 along the vertical plane of the center line. FIG. 12 is an isometric view illustrating a further embodiment of a candle assembly that includes sound and / or light characteristics. FIG. 13 is a side elevational view of the candle assembly of FIG. FIG. 14 is an exploded isometric view showing the top, front, and right side of various parts of the candle assembly of FIG. FIG. 15 is an exploded isometric view showing the top, front, and right side of the controller and diffuser of the candle assembly of FIG. FIG. 16 is an isometric view of the diffuser of FIG. 12 viewed from below. FIG. 17 is a bottom elevation view of the diffuser of FIG. FIG. 18 is an exploded isometric view showing the top, front, and right side of the controller and diffuser of the candle assembly of FIG. FIG. 19 is an exploded isometric view showing the bottom, rear, and right side of the controller portion of the candle assembly of FIG. 12 as viewed from below. FIG. 20 is an enlarged isometric view of the housing of the control device and the various components of the control device of FIGS. . FIG. 21 is a plan view showing the control device of FIG. FIG. 22 is an enlarged isometric view showing a candle assembly including light properties according to a further embodiment. FIG. 23 is an enlarged isometric view showing a candle assembly including light properties according to a further embodiment. 26 is an exploded isometric view showing the top, back, and left side of various portions of the candle assembly of FIG. FIG. 27 is an isometric view of the diffuser of FIG. 22 viewed from below. FIG. 28 is an enlarged isometric view of the control device of FIG. 22 as viewed from below. FIG. 28A is an exploded isometric view of the control device of FIG. 22 as viewed from below. FIG. 29 is an enlarged isometric view of the control device of FIG. 22 and its components as viewed from below. FIG. 30 is an exploded isometric view showing various portions of the candle assembly of FIG. FIG. 31 is a plan view showing the control device of FIG. 32 is an enlarged exploded view showing the control device of FIG. FIG. 6 is an isometric view illustrating a candle assembly including light or sound characteristics according to another embodiment. FIG. 32 is a side elevation view showing the candle assembly of FIG. FIG. 33 is a plan view of a candle assembly according to another embodiment. FIG. 34 is a plan view of a candle assembly according to another embodiment. FIG. 35 is a plan view of a candle assembly according to another embodiment. FIG. 36 is a cross-sectional view of a candle assembly according to another embodiment when viewed along line 36-36 of FIG. FIG. 37 is a cross-sectional view of a candle assembly according to another embodiment when viewed along line 37-37 of FIG. FIG. 38 is a cross-sectional view of a candle assembly according to another embodiment when viewed along line 38-38 of FIG. FIG. 38A is a cross-sectional view illustrating a candle assembly according to another embodiment. FIG. 39 is a sectional elevation view showing a candle assembly according to another embodiment including a thermal sensor. FIG. 40 is another cross-sectional elevation view of a candle assembly according to another embodiment including a Hall effect sensor. FIG. 41 is another cross-sectional elevation view of a candle assembly according to another embodiment including a thermal sensor. FIG. 42 is another cross-sectional view illustrating a candle assembly according to another embodiment including a heat-stained label. FIG. 43 is a cross-sectional elevation view illustrating a candle assembly according to another embodiment including a magnet or iron material disposed between the disperser and the candle holder. FIG. 44 is another cross-sectional view illustrating a candle assembly according to another embodiment including an electronic communication link within the controller. FIG. 45 is a circuit configuration schematic diagram showing an operation circuit of the LED and the speaker of FIGS. 14, 15 and 18 to 21. FIG. 46 is a schematic circuit diagram showing an operation circuit of the LED and speaker of the candle assembly according to the embodiment including the light and / or heat sensor. FIG. 47 is a schematic circuit diagram showing the operation circuit of the LED and speaker of the candle assembly according to the embodiment including the voice detection adjustment sensor. . FIG. 48 is a schematic circuit diagram showing an operation circuit of the LED and speaker of the candle assembly according to the embodiment incorporating the light sensor and the thermal dyeing strip. FIG. 49 is a schematic diagram of the circuit configuration of the LED and speaker operating circuits of a candle assembly according to an embodiment incorporating an electronic communication link. FIG. 50 is a flowchart showing a program executed by the processor of FIG. FIG. 51 is a flowchart showing a program executed by the processor according to the embodiment shown in FIGS. FIG. 52 is a flowchart illustrating a program executed by the processor according to the embodiment incorporating the voice detection sensor. FIG. 53 is a flowchart showing a program executed by the processor according to the embodiment shown in FIGS. FIG. 54 is another cross-sectional elevational view showing a candle assembly according to another embodiment using Hall effect sensors as communication links for electrical components within the controller. FIG. 55 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a candle assembly according to another embodiment. 55A is a cross-sectional view of a candle assembly according to a similar embodiment to that shown in FIG. FIG. 56 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a candle assembly according to a different embodiment. 56A is a cross-sectional view of a candle assembly according to an embodiment similar to that shown in FIG. FIG. 57 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a candle assembly according to another embodiment. FIG. 58 is a cross-sectional view of a candle assembly similar to that shown in FIG. 55 according to yet another embodiment. FIG. 59 is a cross-sectional view of a candle assembly similar to that shown in FIG. 56 according to another embodiment. FIG. 59A is a cross-sectional view of a candle assembly according to an embodiment similar to that shown in FIG. 56A. FIG. 59B is a cross-sectional view of a candle assembly according to an embodiment similar to that shown in FIG. 59A. as well as FIG. 60 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a candle assembly according to a different embodiment.

Claims (20)

The base having a light transmissive side wall extending from the base and defining an internal space, and a light source including a power supply circuit disposed in the internal space;
A light transmissive sheath disposed around the sidewall and radially spaced from the sidewall;
In candle assemblies including
The top end of the side wall is configured to hold a candle replacement part,
The height of at least one of the side wall and the sheath is configured to extend to at least the top of the candle replacement part so that the body of the candle replacement part cannot be seen by transmission of light from the light source. The
Candle assembly.   The candle assembly of claim 1, wherein the light source comprises a three color light emitting diode (LED).   The candle assembly of claim 1, further comprising a second light source comprising a flame from the candle replacement.   The candle assembly of claim 1, wherein a wall configured to support the candle replacement extends across the interior space across a portion of the side wall.   The candle assembly of claim 4, wherein a retaining wall extends upward from the top end of the side wall. An optical assembly and a control device capable of cooperating with said optical assembly;
A light pipe including a bottom end, a top end, and a light transmissive side wall configured to support a candle and define an interior space;
In candle assemblies including
The bottom end is disposed adjacent to at least one light source of the light assembly and allows light to pass through the bottom end from the at least one light source;
Candle assembly.   The candle assembly of claim 6, wherein the side wall extends upward from a base portion, and at least a portion of the controller is disposed in the interior space.   The candle assembly of claim 6, wherein the light assembly includes a plurality of light sources disposed adjacent to the bottom end of the side wall.   The candle assembly of claim 6, further comprising a second light source comprising a flame from the candle.   The candle assembly of claim 6, wherein the light transmissive side wall shields the controller from being viewed from an outside location.   The candle assembly of claim 6, wherein the candle includes a container in which the fuel and wick are disposed.   The candle assembly of claim 6, wherein the candle includes a column candle replacement.   The candle assembly of claim 6, wherein a wall extends across a portion of the side wall straddling the interior space.   The curved transition portion extends between the wall surfaces of the side wall, the curved transition portion has an inner diameter that is twice or more the thickness of an adjacent portion of the side wall, and the curved transition portion includes at least the inner diameter and the side wall. 14. The candle assembly of claim 13, wherein the outer diameter is equal to the sum of the thicknesses of the adjacent portions of the.   The candle assembly according to claim 13, wherein the candle includes a columnar candle replacement portion having a cavity disposed therein, and at least a part of the wall surface and the side wall is inserted into the cavity. A light pipe including a photoconductive side wall that surrounds an internal space and extends between a first end surface and a second end surface, wherein a portion of the side wall is configured to support a candle replacement part The light pipe;
A light source positioned adjacent to the first end surface;
A photoconductive sheath disposed around the light pipe, wherein the sheath is radially spaced from the light pipe and configured so that the main body of the candle replacement part cannot be seen by light transmission from the light source. Said photoconductive sheath, and
Including candle assemblies.   The candle assembly of claim 16, wherein the candle replacement includes a container having a fuel material and a wick disposed therein.   The candle assembly of claim 16, wherein the candle replacement includes a column candle.   The candle assembly of claim 16, wherein a wall surface extends through the portion of the side wall across the interior space, and a retaining wall extends upward from the portion of the side wall. .   The candle assembly of claim 16, wherein a plurality of photoconductive struts having different lengths extend from the retaining wall.

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