MX2008005169A - Device - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for dispensing a fluid for fragrancing, deodorising or sanitising air. The device having a body (2) comprising a shade (8), a chassis (10) having a base (6), a cartridge housing (26) mounted on the chassis (10) and adapted for housing at least one cartridge (36) containing a fluid to be dispensed, and at least one electrical light source (74). The at least one electrical light source (74) is located on the base (6) between the cartridge housing (26) and a sidewall of the body (2).

Description

DEVICE FIELD OF THE INVENTION The invention relates to a device for dispersing a fluid for perfuming, deodorizing, or disinfecting air. In particular, the invention relates to an environmental flavoring device that incorporates a light.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Environmental flavoring devices are common, particularly in domestic environments where these are used to create a pleasant fragrance or to mask a bad smell. The devices are generally of two types, one of independent type that can be placed far from the receptacles of the electrical network and which can be operated electrically by means of a cable or electric batteries, or of the type that is connected directly in a receptacle of the electrical network, known as a device to connect. In general, any of these types works in combination with a fragrance refill cartridge. The refill cartridge may be gel-based in which the fragrance in a gel emanates upon contact with air or, based on aerosol, or alternatively, the refill cartridge may be based on wick, in which a liquid with fragrance is extracted by the wick and evaporates when exposed to air. Currently there is a tendency to manufacture environmental flavoring devices which are visually appealing to the consumer. However, these devices, although attractive in shape, do not achieve the goal of creating an atmosphere in a room. Instead, the consumer often chooses to light a traditional wax candle because the flickering candlelight is famous for being a mood enhancer. Wax candles have a limited combustion time. In particular, the visual effect of the burning candle is rapidly reduced as the wax melts. In a relatively short time interval, the desired atmosphere in the room is lost and only corrected if the consumer lights a new candle. The inherent disadvantage of burning candles is that they produce smoke that can stain the decoration of the room and present an obvious risk of causing a domestic fire. Due to the risk of fire, the consumer is warned not to leave candles unattended.

Wax candles may have fragrance but the consumer has limited control over the rate at which the fragrance emanates in the room. In addition, the smoke that is produced from the candle can mask the fragrance. It is an object of the present invention to provide a device for dispensing a fluid for perfuming, deodorizing or disinfecting air that attempts to overcome the aforementioned problems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In accordance with one aspect of the present invention there is provided a device for dispensing a fluid for perfuming, deodorizing or disinfecting air, the device has a body comprising a screen, a frame having a base, a cartridge housing mounted on the frame and adapted to house at least one cartridge containing a fluid to be dispensed, and at least one source of electric light, wherein said at least one source of electric light is located at the base between the cartridge housing and a side wall of the body. Preferably, the side wall of the body forms part of the frame. Alternatively, the side wall of the body forms part of the screen. Preferably, the screen is curved in such a way that the light falling on it from the one or each electric light source creates a flame-shaped patch of light on the screen. Preferably, the screen is configured to curve outwardly from the frame and then inward toward an upper portion of the cartridge housing. More preferably, the screen is bent outward from a bottom of the frame. The arrangement provides a device that works to supply a fragrance, deodorant preparation or disinfectant preparation in the air, and at the same time can also produce a lighting effect that resembles that of a flickering candle flame. By doing so, the device eliminates the need to burn a traditional wax candle. Conveniently, the device operates without the risks associated with burning candles and therefore can be left unattended in a room. By placing said light source in the base of the device, the flickering effect of the candle is visible from the base of the device. The desired atmosphere in a room can be achieved easily and quickly using the device.

Also, because the device can be kept running for a prolonged period of time, the atmosphere is substantially sustainable, for example, over an afternoon. The desired flickering effect of the light on the body of the device, similar to a candle flame, is maintained until the consumer chooses to turn off the light or the device. Conveniently, the device simulates a wax candle and can perfume a room. Unlike a wax candle with fragrance which also produces smoke, the vapor from the device preserves the fragrance throughout the emanation without the masking of the fragrance. Preferably, said at least one light source is a light emitting diode having a luminous intensity of preferably from about 500 to 10,000 milliCandelas (med), more preferred from about 3000 to 5000 med, and even more preferred from about 3900 mcd. These LEDs produce enough light to create the desired effect but at the same time they require little electrical power to operate. In addition, the LEDs are not heated during use and therefore are a safe source of lighting for them to be incorporated into a product for the consumer. Preferably, the device incorporates means for the consumer to adjust the intensity of said at least one light source. Also more preferably, the device incorporates means with which the brightness of said at least one light source is directly related to the intensity of fragrance spread. Preferably, a plurality of light sources are provided which produce a substantially uniform lighting effect around the device. The LEDs mounted on the frame produce a lighting effect that is effective around substantially 360 ° of the body of the device. In this way, it does not matter from which direction the consumer looks at the device, the same desired effect of the flickering flame of the candle is achieved. Conveniently, the consumer does not need to place the device in a strategic position in the room. In contrast, the choice of where to place the device is not restricted, which is attractive to the consumer. More preferably, five light sources are provided and preferably arranged in a symmetrical curved shape around the cartridge housing, preferably a circular arrangement. An especially preferred arrangement is the horseshoe shape around the chamber. It has been found that this configuration is the most effective to produce the desired result and at the same time maintain the number of LEDs at a minimum. Preferably, each of the five light sources is a light emitting diode having a light intensity of preferably 500 to 10,000 mcd, more preferred 3000-5000 mcd, more preferred even between 3800 to 4000 mcd. Preferably, an observation angle of between about 5o and 180 °, preferably 20 ° and 90 °, more preferably even substantially 50 ° is provided for each of said light sources. Preferably, a thermal source is placed in the body, preferably in the frame, to accelerate the speed at which the fluid is released from the cartridge. The thermal source produces heat that causes vaporization of the fluid in the device, for example, a liquid fragrance, deodorizing fluid, or disinfecting fluid. Of course alternative methods of vaporizing fluid are possible, such as vibrating plate (piezoelectric) technology or PCT type ceramic heaters. More preferably, the thermal source has a flange extending outwardly around the thermal source. Preferably, the light, during use, shines up towards the rim, in order to project a shadow of the ridge up towards a first end of the body. The flange acts as a viewfinder to minimize the shadowing of, for example, unsightly electrical connections inside the device housing. In particular, the flange acts to minimize the obscuration produced by light striking a connector that supplies power to the thermal source. As a variation of this, the flange may be configured in such a way that thematic shadows are produced from the light striking the flange. Thematic shadows can be projected on the screen to be visible to the consumer. Shadows can be in the form of, for example, stars, or they can include text to display a message. Preferably, the cartridge housing has approximately the same dimensions as those of the cartridge. Preferably, elastic means are located in the cartridge housing. Preferably, a plurality of cartridge housings are located in the frame. The cartridge housing is configured to receive the cartridge in a releasable adjustment manner. Due to the equalization of the shape, the cartridge can only fit in the cartridge housing in one direction. Conveniently, the cartridge acts in a self-directed mode and therefore, the consumer is substantially free from the responsibility of properly accommodating the cartridge. The arrangement also helps to avoid damage to the wick of a device. Therefore, this arrangement is suitable for all ages and consumer skills. Preferably, the cartridge housing has an upright sleeve which preferably extends upwardly from the cartridge housing at a height of approximately 45 mm and preferably substantially vertically from said housing. Said sleeve preferably extends beyond the height of the thermal source. Preferably, the sleeve is located between the camera and the screen. Preferably, the maximum angle of dispersion of the light generated from the front LED is such that the light from said LED projects substantially only a shadow on the sleeve which can not be seen from the outside. The sleeve prevents unsightly reflections, for example from the wiring, from appearing on the screen and spoiling the appearance of the device. In addition, the sleeve controls the effect of shadow projection produced by the internal parts of the frame. In particular, the sleeve acts as a reflector to reduce shadows on the internal parts. Preferably, the internal parts of the frame and the screen have smooth contours without sharp corners or sharp edges. In addition, the pressure or screw adjustment points are smoothed. In this way, the opportunity to create shadows is minimized. The use of a flange and smooth contours helps to control the darkening effect produced by the light that is reflected from various parts of the internal surfaces of the screen and the frame. By minimizing the unwanted dimming effect, the external device shows a clear picture of the flickering effect of the candle flame. More preferably, the body parts, preferably the cartridge housing, are fabricated from opaque material. The opaque material acts as a barrier to the light that shines from the light source and therefore also reduces the possibility of a shadow projection effect. Preferably, a portion for image projection is provided in the body which preferably can be moved with respect to the frame or the screen. The portion for image projection is located on the body such that when light strikes the portion for image projection, an image of said portion is projected onto a surface of the body, preferably on the screen. The provision of such portion is pleasant - for the consumer. For example, if the device is used in a restaurant, the name or logo of the restaurant can be incorporated in the portion for imaging. The name or logo is then reflected on the device's screen. The reflection can be made to rotate around the screen if the portion for imaging is mounted rotatably on the body. Preferably, a fragrance emanates from said device simultaneously with the flickering of the candle and the rotating image. Preferably, a chimney is placed in the body, the chimney has at least one cut to allow a flow of air to pass through the device to effect diffusion of the fluid. Preferably, the chimney can rotate about a channel of the body, the channel having at least one opening cooperating with said at least one cut. The chimney may or may not be completely enclosed by the device. Preferably, the chimney is between about 0.5 cm and 10 cm in length, more preferred between 1 cm and 5 cm, more preferred even between 2 cm and 3 cm. In an especially preferred embodiment, the chimney is approximately 2.5 cm in length. Preferably, the chimney has an internal diameter of between about 0.5 cm and 1.5 cm, more preferably between about 0.9 cm and 1.2 cm. Preferably, the internal diameter measures approximately the same as the length of the chimney. Preferably, the internal diameter of the chimney is substantially equal to the internal diameter of the chute. Preferably, a switch is provided in the housing, which can operate to move the chimney. Preferably, the switch is an integral part of the molded part of the chimney. Preferably, the switch extends inwardly in the housing. Preferably, the switch can be moved in a number of positions. The switch causes the movement of the chimney with respect to the channel. Therefore, the cuts can be positioned with respect to the openings. For example, when the cuts are aligned with respect to the openings, maximum air flow is achieved through the device and the rate at which the fluid evaporates is increased. Conveniently, the consumer can control the rate of emanation of, for example, a fragrance, simply by turning the switch. Preferably, said at least one electric light source can operate to produce a visibly modulated light output in accordance with a selected mode of operation. The modulation of light can 1 be random, almost random, or pulsed in a sequential mode. Modulation means varying the light output with respect to a time scale such that preferably the color of the LEDs is changed over a time interval, preferably, through 20 seconds, more preferred through 15 seconds. seconds, more preferred even through approximately 10 seconds. Preferably, speed control options are provided to establish a cycle time of between about 1 second and 60 seconds, preferably between 1.5 seconds and 50 seconds, more preferred even between about 2.5 seconds and 40 seconds. For example, when they first light up, the LEDs can glow with yellow light similar to a cold flame. Over a period of time, for example, one hour, the LEDs can change color to orange and then to red. In this way, the device can produce an effect similar to that of a blazing flame, which becomes deeper in color and intensity over time which can be considered as more natural and mood-enhancing than LEDs. a single color which create totally the same lighting effect. Preferably, each light emitting diode is of the same color, preferably but not limited to yellow or orange. Alternatively, the color may be selected from but not necessarily limited to white, red, green or blue. Also preferably, each LED is of a different color from the surrounding LED. Alternatively, each light-emitting diode is an RGB-type LED. In the most preferred arrangement, the cartridge is a wick-based cartridge and the fluid is a fragrance that is vaporized by the thermal source. In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a device for dispensing a fluid for aromatizing, deodorizing or disinfecting air, the device comprises a housing for receiving a cartridge containing a fluid to be dispensed, the housing has an aperture adapted for allowing the fluid to flow into the air, and at least one source of electric light which can operate to produce a modulated light output, in which a shadow blocking element is located in the housing which is adapted to reduce the minimum shadow projection on the accommodation. All the features described in the present invention can be combined with any of the above aspects, in any combination.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES Next, an embodiment of the invention is described, by way of example only, with reference to the appended figures, in which: Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a device for perfuming the air in accordance with the invention; Figure 2 shows a schematic side view in sections of a device for perfuming the air that incorporates a cartridge; Figure 3 shows a schematic perspective view of a part of a device for perfuming the air; Figure 4 shows a schematic sectional view of a device for perfuming the air; Figure 5 shows a schematic plan view of a part of a device for perfuming the air; Figures 6a and 6b show schematic plan views of devices for perfuming the air; Figures 7a and 7b show schematic additional plan views of devices for perfuming the air; Figures 8a and 8b show a schematic perspective view and a schematic view in sections respectively of a device for perfuming the air; Figures 9a and 9b show schematic side views in sections of devices for perfuming the air; and Figure 10 shows a schematic view from below of a device for perfuming the air.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Figure 1 shows a device for perfuming the air 2 according to the invention. The device for perfuming the air 2 generally has a pear-shaped body having a first chamfered end 4 and a base 6. The device for perfuming the air 2 comprises a screen 8 and a frame 10. The screen 8 and the frame 10 are held together in a press fit mode but it will be appreciated that any adjustment allowing the screen 8 to be removed from the frame 10 may be equally appropriate., for example, a screw thread type adjustment. The screen 8 comprises the first end 4 and a second end 12. The first end 4 has a sloping surface on which an opening 14 is located through which the fluid exits the device for perfuming the air 2. A channel 16 which has a number of openings 17 therein extends downwardly from the opening 14 towards the frame 10 as shown in Figure 2. A switch 20 is located in a slot 22 in the first end 4. The slot 22 is of sufficient length to allow the switch 20 to move from at least a first position to at least a second position in order to effect the dispersion of the fluid. The switch 20 has a number of projections therein which provide a clamping surface against which a user of the device for perfuming the air 2 can push when moving the switch 20. The frame 10 is generally circular in plan view and comprises a skirt 24 and a chamber 26 as shown in Figures 2 and 3. A printed circuit 28, which will be described in more detail below, is housed in the frame 10. A cable opening 29 is located in the skirt 24 through which a cable 30 is supplied to the interior of the device 2. The cable 30 is connected to the printed circuit 28 to supply power to the device for perfuming the air 2. The skirt 24 is curved downwards to join a supporting surface 31. The support surface 31 curves inward to form a portion of the base 6. The skirt 24 has an arched vent 32 molded therein as shown in Figure 4. The vent 32 extends below the frame 10 to cooperate with an opening 34 in the support surface 31. During operation, the vent 32 allows a user to observe a cartridge 36 in the device 2 and allows easy insertion and removal of the cartridge 36. A wall 38 extends upwardly from the opening 34 to form the chamber 26. The chamber 26 is of the same general shape as that of the cartridge 36 held therein. Due to this close similarity in shape, the chamber 26 acts to guide the cartridge 36 in a ready-for-use operation position as shown in Figure 2. The cartridge 36 is held in the chamber 26 such that a portion 37 of the cartridge 36 forms part of the base 6 of the device 2. Said portion 37 is coplanar with and adjacent to the supporting surface 31. As shown in Figure 2, the portion 37 and the supporting surface 31 together form the base 6. Elastically deformable arms 42 are provided on an interior surface of the chamber 26. The arms 42 extend downwardly from the chamber 26. The arms 42 have hands 43 which project inward towards each other in such a way that each hand 43 functions to engage the neck of the cartridge 36 in the operating position. A plurality of vanes 46 are located at an upper end of the inner surface of the chamber 26 against which the shoulders (shoulders) of the cartridge 36 settle when in the operating position. Seven blades 46 are shown but any number may be adequate. The blades 46 are arranged in a fan-like mode around the inner surface. A typical cartridge 36 may be a wick-type liquid fragrance cartridge, commonly used as part of the AIRWICK (MCR) range. Although alternative cartridges include gel-type cartridges, pressurized aerosol cans, preferably incorporate a solenoid device instead of a thermal source. The invention also includes passive air flavoring devices, for example, those that incorporate a fan and band system. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the chamber 26 comprises a rear portion 48 and a front portion 50 which are joined by an upper portion 52. The chamber 26 is oriented such that the rear portion 48 faces the front toward the cable 30. A sleeve 53 which is generally crescent shaped in the plan view extends around a portion of the upper portion 52, and upwards towards the first end 4 of the device for perfuming the air 2. The sleeve 53 extends from the upper portion 52 to a point beyond the scattering angle of the light coming from, in particular the rear LED 80 as shown in FIG. described in more detail later. The sleeve 53 prevents light reflecting from the internal parts of the housing, for example, a thermal source 54 or connector 60, from appearing at the first end 4. The thermal source 54 is located at the upper portion 52 of the chamber 26 The thermal source 54 is generally circular in cross section with a generally circular portal 55 extending through the length thereof. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, a flange 56 extends approximately 180 ° around an upper part of the thermal source 54 and outwardly beyond the rear portion 48. The preferred thermal source 54 comprises two resistors of metal oxide. The thermal source operates at approximately 30 Ohms, 1.7 Watts, and 7.2 Volts. The person skilled in the art will appreciate that any suitable thermal source 54 can be incorporated in the device for perfuming the air 2, for example, a wound wire heater, a PTC heater, ceramic, a thin film or a thin film heater, or any other type of heater suitable to supply heat to the wick 40. The thermal source 54 is held in position in the upper portion 52 by the grips 58. The lugs 58 provide a snap fit that allows easy assembly of the thermal source 54 in chamber 26 during, for example, manufacturing. The thermal source 54 is connected to the printed circuit 28 by a connector 60. A chimney 62 is located on the thermal source 54. The chimney 62 is generally circular in plan view and has an internal diameter of between 0.9 to 1.2 cm. The length of the chimney 62 is approximately 2.5 cm but can be up to 3 cm in alternative modes. The chimney 62 has two diametrically opposed cuts 64 which are located at a lower end thereof. The cuts 64 are of similar size to the openings 17 in the channel 16. It is contemplated that any appropriate number of cuts can be provided in the chimney 62. An arm 66 extends from the chimney 62 and through the slot 22 to cooperate with the switch 20. The reader will appreciate that the switch 20 can be a separate piece or an integral part of the chimney 62. When the device for perfuming the air 2 is assembled, the chimney 62 is held in position by the channel 16 which is of a diameter slightly smaller than that of the chimney. In this way, the chimney 62 can be moved relative to the channel 16 after the switch 20 is operated. Adjacent to the cable opening 29 is an operation button 72 which is operatively linked to the printed circuit 28. The button of operation 72 is of the type of button that is pressed, although an operation button that moves in a slidable manner is equally appropriate. An operation button that moves in a sliding manner can be configured to move in a number of positions, which can be by increments. As shown in Figure 5, the printed circuit 28 is generally horseshoe-shaped in plan view, and has a diameter of about 8 cm. The printed circuit 28 is connected to a power source through the cable 30. The cable 30 is connected to the mains power through a transformer to supply low voltage electricity, typically 7.5 V, to the device for perfuming the air 2. In this way, the user will not be directly exposed to electricity from the electricity network. A plurality of light sources shown as LEDs 74 are fixed on the printed circuit 28. Each LED 74 is fixed at a specific position. In the arrangement shown in figure 5, five LEDs are provided and are configured in a symmetrical array around the horseshoe shape of the printed circuit 28 as follows: two front LEDs 76, two intermediate LEDs 78 and a single rear LED 80. The front LEDs 76 are positioned adjacent the front portion 50 of the camera 26 at an angle β of about 49 ° from an axis 85. The intermediate LEDs 78 are positioned adjacent a corner 82 of the camera 26, at an angle I HEARD that it is approximately 11 ° from the axis 85. The rear LED 80 is positioned adjacent the rear portion 48 of the chamber 26, and generally centrally therefrom, at a distance d from the rear portion 48. The distance d is approximately 0.14 cm. In the arrangement shown, a viewing angle of 50 ° is achieved for each LED 74. A viewing angle of 50 ° means that the light intensity is half the maximum at an angle of 25 ° from the center line of the LED 74. Although 50 ° is the preferred angle, the range of viewing angle includes 5 to 180 °. The luminous intensity may be in the range of 1000-5000 mea but the preferred luminous intensity is 3900 mea. The maximum wavelength may be in a range of wavelengths in the visible region, UV or IR, but the preferred maximum wavelength is 589 nm. The radiation bandwidth of the spectrum may be between 5 to 50 nm but in the embodiment shown, the preferred bandwidth it is 30 nm. A filter element substantially of the same shape and size as the printed circuit 28 is mounted on the frame 10, above the LEDs and adjacent thereto. The filter element can rotate in the device 2. The filter element comprises a number of observation windows, for example five windows. Each window is positioned to align with an LED 74 so that light passes through the or each window. Figures 6a and 6b show alternative printed circuits having four or five LEDs respectively therein. In the arrangement of Figure 6a, the four LEDs create an unwanted shadow as shown by shading with lines. In Figure 6b, five LEDs are located in a device. In this arrangement the shading is reduced to the minimum. Figures 7a and 7b again show arrangements for positioning either four or five LEDs respectively on the device. In Figure 7a, the position of the opening 34 in the base 6 of the device 2, together with the location and number of LEDs 74, reduces the visibility of the cartridge 36 when viewed through the vent 32. However, in the Fig. 7b, the visibility is substantially increased due to the location of the opening 34 and the number and positioning of each LED 74.

The visibility distance X is reduced in figure 7b which allows the consumer to easily see the cartridge 36. The positioning of the LEDs 74 with respect to the screen 8 and the camera 26 provides an arrangement which produces a candle-like effect in the device 2. This effect is mainly due to the light coming from each LED 74 that is being reflected from the walls of the chamber 26 and the sleeve 53 and on the interior surface of the screen 8 in a predictable and structured manner as shown in Figures 8a and 8b. The arrows in said figures schematically show the predicted direction that the light travels in the device 2 and how light is reflected on the chosen surfaces. The arrangement provided by the invention overcomes the problems of creating unwanted shadows from the light reflected randomly from the component parts within the device 2. An example of unwanted shadows that are created at the first end 4 of the device 2 is shown schematically in figure 9a. In figure 9a a shadow is created, shown as "A" in the figure, at the first end 4 due to the light that is reflected from the internal parts of the device 2, particularly the connector 60 and the camera 26. The effect " A "is undesirable for the consumer. Figure 9b shows the arrangement of the present invention in which the flange 56 is provided in the thermal source 54. The flange 56 extends beyond the connector 60 and prevents light reflected from the connector 60 from being projected as a shadow in the first end 4. Instead, as shown by the inserts marked B and C, desirable and visually appealing shadows are created at the first end 4. The shadows can be of any shape. For example, when used in the children's room, the shape may be a star shape and may rotate around the opening 14. This may be achieved by causing the flange 56 to rotate in the device 2. The LEDs 74 may be the same color or different colors. The colors are, for example, yellow, orange, white, red, blue or green. Alternatively, at least one RGB LED can be incorporated in the device 2. The light emitted by each LED 74 can be modulated. The alternative LEDs, together with the operating modes are presented in more detail below. There are a number of possible modes of operation of the LEDs 74. Each mode can be produced using RGB LEDs, or separate LEDs of red, green and blue. A first mode is known as the rainbow mode. The rainbow mode is preferably cycled through all colors in a sequence of continuous preference over the course of about 10 seconds. Options for speed control are provided on device 2 to allow the consumer to adjust the cycle time, preferably at 2.5 sec, 5 sec, 10 sec, 20 sec or 40 sec or any time between them. In operation, for example, a red LED 74 is slowly reduced in intensity while a blue LED 74 slowly increases in intensity. The effect that this produces is a gradual change through the spectrum of colors from red, through violet to blue. The same effect is carried out with respect to a green LED 74 present in device 2 to achieve a smooth cycle through the color spectrum. A second mode is the RGB rhythm mode which uses at least one RGB LED. The RGB rhythm mode is cycled through the colors' preferably in the same sequence as the rainbow mode, but the lights pulse between each color to give a beat effect. The "off cycle" is a gradual decrease that then increases in luminous intensity through the course of approximately 1 sec. The total color cycle preferably takes 10 sec. The speed control options allow the consumer to adjust the cycle time to a preferred time, for example, to 2.5 sec, 5 sec, 10 sec, 20 sec or 40 sec or any time between them. The interval of the "off cycle" preferably varies proportionally with the cycle time. Alternatively, the rhythm mode can be performed on individual LEDs 74. When individual LEDs are used, the consumer selects their chosen color and the on / off of the pulses of light in that color. The total time of the preference cycle is 6 sec. The "off cycle" is a gradual decrease after an increase in luminous intensity through the course of preference of 1 sec. The speed control options allow the consumer to adjust the cycle time to a preferred time, for example, to 1.5 sec, 3 sec, 6 sec, 12 sec or 18 sec or any time between them. The interval of the "off cycle" varies proportionally with the cycle time. An additional mode is the static mode. The static mode allows the consumer to select any of the possible colors to achieve a static brightness. An additional alternative mode is the pulse mode. The pulse mode is similar to the rhythm mode but the "off cycle" preferably consists of two periods off giving the effect of a heartbeat. The total time of the preference cycle is 8 sec. The light is completely on for 2 sec, a gradual loss in intensity through the course of 1 sec is then followed by a gradual increase through 1 sec. The light is then gradually reduced in intensity through 1 sec and kept completely off for 1 sec before gradually increasing in intensity over 2 sec. The speed control options allow the consumer to adjust the preferred cycle time to 2 sec, 4 sec, 8 sec, 16 sec or 24 sec or any time between them. The interval of the shutdown cycle varies proportionally with the cycle time. An RGB cycle mode produces the effect of colors moving around the device. In such mode, each RGB LED (or group of red, green and blue LEDs) is of a different color at any time. For example, if three LEDs are used, one is red (LED1), the other is green (LED2), and the other is blue (LED3) and at the beginning of the sequence. LED1 then cycles slowly from red to green, while LED2 cycles from green to blue and LED3 cycles from blue to red, etc. The total time of the cycle is 10 sec. The speed control options allow the consumer to adjust the cycle time, for example, to 2.5 sec, 5 sec, 10 sec, 20 sec or 40 sec or any time between them. A candle mode uses yellow LEDs or the yellow color obtained by RGB LEDs. In such mode, one or more LEDs are kept in a static yellow mode while one or more of the other LEDs is turned on / off in a yellow mode to produce a flicker effect. The on / off cycle is typically fast, with the power on and off preferably of equal duration and preferably achieving 5 cycles per second. The consumer can vary the speed of the pulses. The operation mode of the LEDs 74 can produce a flickering effect similar to a flickering candle. In addition, an effect can be produced through a programmed period of time which may coincide with a change in the intensity of the fragrance. For example, a red candle can match a strong fragrance intensity and the fragrance decreases in intensity as the LED changes to an orange color. The effect can be enhanced by the use of a filter element that works in cooperation with the LEDs. Figure 10 shows an alternative embodiment of the invention in which a plurality of cartridges 136 is housed in the chamber 126. Four cartridges 136 are shown but any suitable number can be incorporated in the device 100. A portion 137 of each cartridge 136 forms a section of the base 106 of the device 100, together with a support surface 131 of the device 100. In a further embodiment, a circuit breaker is incorporated into the electrical circuitry. The circuit breaker can be operated to close the circuit when, for example, a fragrance cartridge is placed in the device 2 or the display 8 fits the frame 10. In one embodiment, said circuit breaker may comprise a magnetic switch of plates. In a further embodiment, a recognition system is provided in the device 2. The recognition system comprises electronic identification means which can be located in the device 2, in each screen 8, and in a cartridge that will be used in the device . The identification means detects a preferred match, for example, a particular screen with a particular fragrance cartridge. The operation of said recognition system for example, which incorporates bar codes, will be evident to the person skilled in the art. In use, the consumer chooses a preferred screen 8 and fixes said screen 8 to the frame 10. The consumer can make his choice using the recognition system. The cartridge 36 is then inserted into the opening 34 in the chamber 26 of the device for perfuming the air 2. Conveniently, the vent 32 provides an easily accessible button hole for inserting and removing the cartridge 36. The contours of the wall 38 of the chamber act to guide the cartridge 36 into an operative position in which the wick 40 passes through the chamber 26 and into the interior 55 of the thermal source 54; the end of the wick 40 is co-linear with one end of the thermal source 54. The flanges of the cartridge 36 are seated against the blades 46 of the chamber 26. The neck of the cartridge 36 is pushed against the arms 42 which deform elastically to receive said cartridge 36. In this position, the device for perfuming the air 2 is releasably held in the operative position. In the operative position, the cartridge 36 sits in the device 2 such that the portion 37 of the cartridge 36 rests in the same plane as the support surface 31 of the frame 10. Together, the portion 37 of the cartridge 36 and the surface of support 31 form base 6 of the device. Due to this configuration, a level base 6 of the device 2 is obtained. The user can place the device 2 on a surface and the device remains in a constant configuration. In this position, a section of the cartridge 36 remains visible to the consumer due to the vent 32 in the skirt 24 of the frame 10. This allows the consumer to monitor the level of the remaining liquid in the cartridge 36, particularly as the end of the cartridge life 36.

In order to supply power to the device-to perfume the air 2, the cable 30 is connected to a power source. The cable 30 runs through a transformer which supplies approximately 7.5 V to said device 2. By doing this, the consumer is not directly exposed to the risk of directly observing an electric shock from the electricity supply network. It will be appreciated that an alternative form of low voltage power source can be incorporated, for example, low voltage battery power. When connected, power is supplied to the connector 60 to heat the thermal source 54. In addition, the LEDs 74 in the device for perfuming the air 2 can be ignited by pressing the operation button 72 to an operative position. In an alternative arrangement, the operation button 72 can operate either or both of the LEDs 74 or the thermal source 54. When power is supplied to the thermal source 54, the heat radiates into the interior of the portal 55 to cause diffusion of the liquid in the wick 40. When the switch 20 is in the "open" position, the cuts 64 align with the openings 17 to allow a substantial flow of air through the end of the wick 40 which causes rapid vaporization, of the fragrance. The steam travels up through the channel 16 and out of the opening 14. If the user wishes to reduce the intensity of the fragrance the switch 20 moves to a partially "open" position. In this position, the chimney 62 rotates about the channel 16 such that the cuts 64 partially align with the openings 17 in the channel 16. Due to the space provided between the openings 17 and the cuts 64, an air flow is provided. minimum but continuous through the device 2 which helps to ensure that substantially no condensation forms on the internal surfaces of the device 2. The presence of condensation inside the device 2 is undesirable because the liquid can drain into the electrical components, particularly the printed circuit, and damaging the device 2. The device for perfuming air 2 is visually appealing to a consumer while simultaneously operating as a fragrance dispenser. The light effect produced by the light that is being directed at particular surfaces in the camera and on the screen, gives the consumer the appearance of a candle flame, blinking in use and therefore there is no obvious requirement to light candles. wax which are potentially very dangerous. This effect is also enhanced by the consumer when selecting a preferred mode of operation. In addition, the effect of light is not reduced by unsightly shadow projections of internal parts of the device due to the arrangement of the sleeve 53 and the flange 56 which cooperate to minimize said effect. In addition, the smooth internal surfaces of the device 2 also ensure that the unwanted shadow effect is minimized. Particularly, there are substantially no sharp corners at the snap-fit points or with screw on the inner surface. The ability of the device 2 to change the screens 8 provides the consumer with a choice of external appearance of the device 2. Furthermore, because a particular screen can be equipped with the identification means, the screen can be matched with a fragrance of specific cartridge. The recognition means can be mechanical, for example, using cooperative mechanical parts on the screen and cartridge. The recognition system can also cause the operation of a particular mode of LEDs. Vent 32 provides an observation window for the consumer. The attractiveness of this feature is increased when the cartridge or each cartridge 36, 136 is made from transparent material and the fluid contained therein has color. When a plurality of cartridges is provided, each one can contain a fluid with different color. In addition, due to the transparent nature of the or each cartridge, the consumer is provided with a visual indication of how full the cartridge is and when it needs to be replaced. It is preferred that the cartridge or each cartridge be made from glass. Glass is a robust material that can be blown thick enough to support the impact. Glassmaking usually does not create sharp edges, which can sometimes result from injection molding of plastics. In addition, the glass is compatible with the combination of fragrance and heat. The configuration of a portion of the cartridge that forms a part of the base of the device, together with the supporting surface of the chamber, requires less material to make the device. Therefore, the production costs of the device are lower than those compared with a device that incorporates a complete and integrally molded base. The provision of the component parts in the frame 10 ensures that the operative parts are housed in a location in the device. This allows the screen to be manufactured more simply than if the screen also had component parts. In addition, because the screen does not have component parts, the consumer can easily exchange the screen in the frame without the need for the consumer to connect any electrical components or other such parts that allow the device to operate. This arrangement provides the consumer with the choice of the appearance of the device but simultaneously limits the risk of the consumer damaging the device while adjusting the chosen screen to the frame. The camera can be manufactured from plastic materials. Particularly suitable plastic materials are those that are opaque in nature, for example polypropylene. By doing it this way, the opaque areas help to hide the internal component parts. The invention is not limited to the use of a fragrance but is equally suitable for use with pest control liquids, vaporizable pharmaceutical preparations, e.g., decongesting formulations. When used for pest control, the light source is preferably a UV light, particularly a germicidal UV light. Although the device is shown connected to a power cable of the electrical network, it is contemplated that the device may comprise a mooring station and rechargeable batteries. This arrangement allows the consumer to move the device through the house and outside, for example to the garden. When used in the garden, the device is preferably adapted for pest control. The attention of the reader is directed to all articles and documents presented concurrently with or prior to this description in relation to this application and which are open to public inspection with this description, and the contents of said articles and documents remain incorporated in the present invention for reference. All features described in this description (including any claims, summary and appended figures), and / or all steps of any method or method so described, may be combined in any combination, except combinations in which at least some right features and / or steps are mutually exclusive. Each feature described in this description (including any claims, summary and appended figures), may be replaced with alternative features that serve equal, equivalent or similar purposes, unless expressly indicated otherwise. Therefore, unless expressly indicated otherwise, each feature described is only an example of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

The invention is not restricted to the details of the previous modality or modalities. The invention extends to any novel feature, or any novel combination of the features described in this description (including any claims, summary and appended figures), or any novel step, or any novel combination of the steps of any method or method so described. .

Claims (28)

NOVELTY OF THE INVENTION Having described the present invention, it is considered as a novelty and therefore the content of the following is claimed as property: CLAIMS

1. - A device for dispensing a fluid for perfuming, deodorizing or disinfecting air, the device has a body comprising a screen, a frame having a base, a cartridge housing mounted on the frame and adapted to house at least one cartridge that contains a fluid to be dispensed, and at least one source of electric light, characterized in that said at least one source of electric light is located at the base between the housing of the cartridge and a side wall of the body.

2. A device according to claim 1, characterized in that the side wall of the body forms part of the frame.

3. A device according to claim 1, characterized in that the side wall of the body forms part of the screen.

4. - A device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the screen is curved so that the light falling on it from the or each source of electric light creates a patch of light in the shape of a flame on the screen.

5. A device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the screen is configured to curve outwardly from the frame and then inward toward an upper portion of the cartridge housing.

6. A device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the screen curves outward from a lower part of the frame.

7. - A device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that a plurality of electric light sources are provided around a perimeter of the frame.

8. A device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said at least one source of electric light is a light-emitting diode having a light intensity of between about 500 and 10,000 mcd.

9. A device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that five sources of electric light are provided and are arranged in a symmetrical curved shape around the housing of the cartridge.

10. A device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that a vent is provided in the frame and at least one of the electric light sources is located adjacent to the vent.

11. A device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that a division angle of between 20 ° and 90 ° is provided for each LED.

12. A device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that a thermal source is located in the frame, the thermal source is adapted to accelerate the speed at which the fluid is released from the cartridge.

13. A device according to claim 12, characterized in that a flange extends outward from the thermal source.

14. A device according to claim 13, characterized in that the flange extends substantially horizontally from the thermal source.

15. A device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that an upright sleeve is provided in the cartridge housing.

16. A device according to claim 15, characterized in that the upright sleeve extends upwards from the housing of the cartridge at a height of approximately 45 mm.

17. A device according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that the upright sleeve extends substantially vertically from the housing 'of the cartridge.

18. A device according to any of claims 15 to 17, characterized in that the sleeve extends circumferentially around at least a part of the housing of the cartridge.

19. A device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that a chimney is located in the body, the chimney has at least one cut to allow a flow of air to pass through the device to effect the diffusion of the fluid .

20. A device according to claim 19, characterized in that the chimney can rotate around a channel of the body, the channel has at least one opening cooperating with said at least one cut.

21. A device according to claim 19 or 20, characterized in that a switch is provided in the body which can operate to move the chimney with respect to the channel that.

22. A device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cartridge is a wick-type cartridge and the fluid is a fragrance that is vaporized by the thermal source to produce a gas.

23. A device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one screw hole is located in the body, adjacent to said at least one source of electric light.

24. A device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the body also comprises a screen and a frame which are held together in a releasable manner.

25. A device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the housing of the cartridge is manufactured from opaque material. 26.- A device according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that said at least one electric light source can operate to produce a visibly modulated light output in accordance with a selected mode of operation. 27. An assembly comprising a device for dispensing a fluid for perfuming, deodorizing or disinfecting air, the device has a body comprising a screen, a frame having a base, a cartridge housing mounted on the frame and adapted to house at least one cartridge containing a fluid to be dispensed, and at least one source of electric light, wherein said at least one source of electric light is located at the base between the cartridge housing and a side wall of the cartridge. body, the assembly also comprises at least one cartridge containing a fluid to be dispensed. 28. A device as described substantially in the present invention with reference to any of the appended figures.