MXPA06008825A - Device providing coordinated emission of light and volatile active - Google Patents

Abstract

A light and substance emitting device (100) includes a light source (106), an emitter (108) a power source (118), control circuitry (110,112), and a support structure (102, 104, 134). The light source (106) emits a flickering light that emulates a flame of a candle. The emitter (108) emits a volatile active. The power source (118) supplies power to the light source (106) and to the emitter (108). The control circuitry (110,112) controls at least one of (i) the light source (106) to flicker and (ii) the emitter (108) to emit the volatile active. The support structure (102, 104, 134) supports the light source (106), the emitter (108), the power source (118) and the control circuitry (110, 112).

Description

SE, SI, SK, TR), OAPI (BF, BJ, CF, CG, CI, CM, GA, GN, For two-letter codes and other abbreviations, refer to the "Guid-GQ, GW, ML, MR, NE, SN, TD, TG.) Anee Notes on Codes and Abbreviations "appearing at the beginning - no regular issue of the PCT Gazette. Published: - with intemational search report DEVICE PROVIDING COORDINATED EMISSION OF LIGHT AND VOLATILE ACTIVE INGREDIENT Related request This application claims the benefit of the Provisional Application North American No. 60/541, 067, filed on February 3, 2004. FIELD OF THE INVENTION The invention relates to the integrated presentation of environmental conditions. More specifically, the invention relates to the controlled and coordinated emission of light and volatile active ingredient, for example, a fragrance, in a given area, such as a room, from a single device. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Due to its wide range of shapes and sizes, as well as the seemingly unlimited number of odors available, few things are absolutely versatile in establishing the environment in an area such as scented candles. However scented candles have disadvantages. For example, dripping wax can damage furniture and skin and, in the extreme, an exposed flame can lead to a structure catching fire. To explain the common problems associated with candles, electronic lighting devices that have a wavering candle appearance, such as those described in US Pat. 5,013,972 and 6,066,924, are generally known in the art. In the '972 patent, two side-by-side lamps alternately turn on and off at such frequencies, that a flicker is perceived. Similarly, the '924 patent discloses a circuitry used to control two light bulbs in close proximity to each other, such that the bulbs oscillate. On the other hand, the circuits and bulbs of the '924 patent are contained within a container of a size and shape similar to common flat candles. While these patents may suggest devices that mimic the visual aesthetics of a candle, they can not provide the perfumed candle experience, that is, they can not emit fragrance in addition to light. Fragrance distributors are also generally known.

For example, it is known to emit fragrance from an aerosol container during the activation of an actuator by a user. Also, other methods use the evaporative properties of liquids, or other materials capable of evaporation, to cause vapors with desired properties that are distributed in the ambient air. For example, U.S. Patent No. 4,41 3,779 discloses a glass container containing a fluid in which two rigid porous nylon strands extend. The wicks come into contact with a rigid plastic porous element. In use, the wicks transport the fluid from the glass container to the ambient air. According to another example of air fresheners, the art is generally also aware of atomizer assemblies to release fragrance from a wick that extracts fragrant liquid from a reservoir. For example, commonly assigned US Patent No. 6,296, 196 and commonly assigned and co-pending US Patent Application No. 10 / 412,91 1 filed on April 14, 2003, both discussed in detail below, describe such assemblies. The '196 patent and the '91 application 1 are hereby incorporated by reference. Although these representative devices provide the emission of fragrance, they do not provide the visual aesthetics of a candle. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The invention provides a device that emits both light and odor (or other active ingredient) similar to a perfumed candle. More particularly, the invention is directed to an improved candle utilizing a unique design that combines an intermittent non-flame effect and an effective and reliable volatile active ingredient delivery system. More specifically, in one aspect of the invention, a light and substance emitting device includes a light source, emitter, power source, control circuits, and a support structure. The light source emits an intermittent light that mimics a flame of a candle. The emitter emits a volatile active ingredient. The source of energy supplies energy to the light source and the emitter. The control circuitry controls at least one of the light source to flash and the emitter to emit the volatile active ingredient. The support structure supports the light source, emitter, power source, and control circuits. According to another aspect of the invention, a light and substance emission device includes a light source, substance emitter, control circuits, power source, a chassis, and a fastener. The light source emits an intermittent light that mimics a flame of a candle. The substance emitter emits a volatile active ingredient. The control circuits control at least one of the light source and the emitter. The energy source supplies energy to the light source, to emit the intermittent light, and to the substance emitter, to emit the volatile active ingredient. One or more of the light source, substance emitter, control circuits, and power source are located in the chassis. The chassis can be detachably placed in the fastener, the fastener and chassis form a housing in which the light source, substance emitter, control circuits, and the power source are located. At least one of the chassis and body includes a diffuser that diffuses the light emitted by the light source. According to another embodiment of the invention, a light and substance emission device includes at least one LED, substance emitter, energy source, and at least one of a simple microcontroller and a simple circuit panel. At least one LED emits a flashing light that mimics a candle flame. The substance emitter emits a volatile active ingredient. The energy source provides energy to at least one of the light source, to emit the light, and to the substance emitter, to emit the volatile active ingredient. At least one of the simple microcontroller and the single circuit panel controls both the light source to emit the intermittent light and the substance emitter to emit the volatile active ingredient. A better understanding of these and other aspects, features, and advantages of the invention can be obtained by reference to the drawings and the accompanying description, in which the preferred embodiments of the invention are illustrated and described. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a perspective view of a device for emitting light and fragrance according to a first embodiment of the invention. Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the device of Figure 1. Figure 3 is a side view of the device of Figure 1, with the base detached. Figure 4 is a perspective view of the components of the device of Figure 1. Figure 5 is a perspective view of the device of Figure 1 located in a fastener. Figure 6 is a side view of light emitting device and -fragrance according to a second embodiment of the invention. Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view showing the relationship of the device of Figure 6 with a base. Figures 8A, 8B, and 8C are views of a light and fragrance emission device according to a third embodiment of the invention. Figure 9 is a perspective view of a light and fragrance emission device according to another aspect of the invention. Figure 10 is a perspective view of a device for emitting light and fragrance according to another aspect of the invention. "Figure 1 1 illustrates other embodiments of a light and fragrance emitting device according to the invention.

Figures 12A-12D illustrate configurations of fasteners to be used according to various aspects of the invention. Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a preferred fragrance dispenser of the invention. Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the preferred fragrance dispenser shown in Figure 13. Throughout the figures, similar or corresponding reference numbers have been used for similar or corresponding parts. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The invention provides a device that emits both light and fragrance. Preferably, the invention provides a single device that mimics the visual and olfactory aesthetics of a scented candle, without an exposed flame and with an improved fragrance delivery system. While a preferred embodiment of the invention includes the emission of a fragrance, and much of the discussion below will be with respect to the emission of a fragrance, it is also contemplated that the distributor of the invention may alternatively distribute other volatile active ingredients. Such alternate volatile active ingredients may include, for example, disinfectants, sanitizers, insecticides, and insect repellents. As will be recognized by one skilled in the art, other volatile active ingredients can also be introduced to the environment via various distributors in the same way as fragrances. According to what is generally seen in the figures, preferred embodiments of the invention include a device for emitting light and fragrance. The device preferably includes an electrically driven light source, fragrance dispenser, power source, control circuits, and a fastener structure. All these components work together to provide a fragrant aroma and the appearance of an intermittent flame, the intermittent effect is provided by the electrically driven light source. Light source The light source of the invention is an electrically driven light emitting device. In preferred arrangements, the light source comprises one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs). Particularly, in FIGS. 1-7 a single LED 1 06 or 206 is used, while in FIGS. 8A-8C, the light source includes LEDs 306a, 306b. Other conventional lighting devices (including, for example, incandescent, halogen, fluorescent, etc.) can alternatively be used as a light source. According to what is generally understood, LEDs offer several features not found in other conventional lighting devices. In particular, according to what is well known in the art, by manipulating the operating cycle of an LED, the emitted light of the LED can be controlled. For example, the light can be emitted at perceptible intermittences, or it can emit such that it is perceived when emitting continuously. On the other hand, increasing the operating cycle of an LED will increase the intensity of the light emitted and / or the perceived tone.

In the modalities in which a single LED is used, the LED is controlled to have a variable intensity, thereby providing an intermittent effect. When two LEDs are used, as in FIGS. 8A-8C, the two LEDs 306a, 306b are preferably arranged one above the other, that is, the LED 306a is on one side of the LED 306b opposite a base of the emitting device. of light and fragrance 300. Preferably, the upper LED 306a is controlled to emit light at a perceptible intermittency, while the lower LED 306b is controlled such that the light is perceived upon being continuously emitted. In this way, the LEDs 306a, 306b work to create an intermittent effect. When, for example, a conventional candle is lit, the flame base is constant, while the portion of the flame furthest from the fuse seems to intermittent. The present arrangement of the LEDs 306a, 306b mimics this visual feature. It is preferred that the LEDs having a yellow or amber hue are used. Specifically, it is preferred that Used LEDs have an emission wavelength in the range of about 580 nanometers to about 600 nanometers, and it is even more preferred, that the LEDs used, have an emission wavelength in the range of about 585 nanometers to about 595 nanometers . Of course, modifications are anticipated for the light source of the preferred embodiment. For example, perhaps, more than two LEDs can be used to create the perception of a larger flame. Also, many-tone LEDs are known and could be used, for example to more accurately resemble a flame using shades that are reddish, orange, and / or yellowish. The colors are. they can also change, for example, with RGB LEDs (ie, a range of red, green, and blue LEDs). By varying the types of LEDs used, as well as their arrangement, numerous aesthetics can be obtained, including presentations of varied colors, flames of color, and color flashes. And, by adjusting the operating cycles of the LEDs, the brightness of the light can also be reduced or intensified, as dictated by the design preference. On the other hand, when multiple LEDs are used, an LED is not required to provide a perceptible constant light emission while the other LED 306a provides an intermittent effect. One or both may be held constant perceptibly and one or both may emit intermittent light. (It would be recognized by one skilled in the art that by using pulse width modulation to control one or more constant LEDs perceptibly and the flashing lights can both flash at a high frequency imperceptible to an observer. must understand in the present that it refers to the perceived effects). Fragrance Distributor A preferred fragrance dispenser is provided integrally with the invention. The fragrance dispenser preferably holds a replaceable container or reservoir, which has a fragrance in any number of conventional forms, including gel and liquid forms. The fragrance can be vaporized by the application of heat and emanate from the device. In such a case, the dispenser may have a controllable heating device for varying the rate at which steam is conducted from the fragrance or a mechanical controller to control the flow of air around the fragrance to be vaporized (such as a protective or a fan). While fragrance dispensers are generally well known, a preferred fragrance dispenser is a wick-based emanation system. More preferably, the fragrance dispenser uses an atomizer to emanate the fragrance from the wick. Such an arrangement is shown in Figures 13 and 14. Specifically, the preferred evaporative fragrance dispenser 4 comprises an atomizer assembly that includes an orifice plate 462, and a replaceable reservoir 326. The reservoir 326 is replaceable and contains a fluid. A wick 464 is located in the reservoir 326. The wick 464 operates by capillary action to transfer the liquid into the reservoir 326. The reservoir 326 is preferably peelable by one user and can be replaced with another reservoir 326 (e.g. depletes the fluid or when a different perfumed fluid is desired). When it is replaced in this way, the wick 464 transfers the fluid from the reservoir 326. In addition to including the orifice plate 462, the atomizer assembly further comprises at least one elastic elongated wire-like support 466 formed to elastically support the lower surface of the vessel. the orifice plate 462 and a spring housing 468. A spring 470, contained within the spring housing 468, is elastically pressed onto the upper surface of the orifice plate 462. The place of pressing on the orifice plate 462 directly, spring 470 can alternatively, or additionally, pressing on a member, such as an actuating element 472 (made of, for example, piezoelectric ceramic material, which is connected to the orifice plate 462). Together, the wire-type holder 466 and the spring housing 470 hold the orifice plate 462 in place in a manner that allows the orifice plate 462 to move up and down against the elastic tilt of the wire-like support 466. drive element 472 is preferably annularly formed and orifice plate 462 is preferably circular. The orifice plate 462 extends through and is welded or otherwise secured to the actuator member 472. A construction of a vibratory type atomizer assembly is well known and described, for example, in US Patent No. 6,296. , 1 96. Accordingly, the atomizer assembly will not be described in detail except to say that when the alternating voltages are applied to the opposite upper and lower sides of the actuator 472, these voltages produce electric fields through the actuator element. 472 and cause them to expand and contract in radial directions. This extension and contraction is communicated to the orifice plate 462 causing it to flex so that a central region thereof vibrates up and down. The central region of the orifice plate 462 is convexly slightly upward to provide firmness and to improve atomization. The central region is also formed with a plurality of small tapered holes extending through the orifice plate 462 from the lower or lower surface of the orifice plate 462 to its upper surface. In operation, the electric current, in the form of alternating high frequency voltages, is applied to the opposite upper and lower sides of the actuator 472, as described above. A suitable circuit for producing these voltages is shown and described in US Patent No. 6,296, 196, noted above. As described in that patent, the device can be operated during successive on and off times. The relative durations of these on and off times can be adjusted by an external switch actuator (not shown) on the outside of the housing and coupled to a switch element in the microcontroller. In other embodiments, the on and off times can be controlled by a preselection program, or controlled by a user interface working through a processor, such as a user control. When the atomizer assembly is supported by the wire type holder 466, the orifice plate 462 is placed in contact with the upper end of the wick 464. The atomizer assembly is thereby supported on the liquid container 326 such that the end The upper portion of the wick 464 touches the lower side of the orifice plate 462. Thus, the wick 464 supplies fluid from within the liquid container 326 by capillary action to the upper portion of the wick 464 and then by surface tension contact to the side. bottom of the orifice plate 462, which, during vibration, causes the liquid to pass through its orifices and is ejected from its opposite side (i.e. the upper surface) in the form of small droplets. In a preferred arrangement, a horizontal platform serves as a common structural support for both the reservoir 326 and the atomizer assembly. In this way, the reservoir 326, and, in particular, the upper end of the wick 464 located therein, align with the orifice plate 462. On the other hand, because the atomizer assembly and the orifice plate 462 are elastically mounted, the upper end of the wick 464 will always be pressed against the lower surface of the orifice plate 462 and / or actuator 472 regardless of the dimensional variations that may occur due to manufacturing tolerances when a reservoir 326 is replace for another. This is because if the wick 464 contained in the replacement tank 326 is higher or lower than the wick 464 of the original liquid tank 326, the action of the spring 470 will allow the orifice plate 462 to move up and down according to the location of the wick 464 in the replacement tank 326, so that the wick 464 is pressed against the underside of the plate 462 of hole and / or actuator 472. It will be appreciated that the wick 464 is preferably formed of a dimensionally stable and substantially solid material, so that it will not deform too much when pressed against the underside of the elastically supported orifice plate 462. The characteristics of the horizontal platform in which the atomizer is located will be discussed further below. As shown, the wick 464 extends from within the liquid container 326 up through a plug 474 in the upper portion of the reservoir 326 to contact the orifice plate 462 and / or actuator 472. (The plug 474 holds the wick 464 inside the liquid reservoir 326). The wick 464 has longitudinally extending capillary passages that draw fluid from within the reservoir 326 to the upper end of the wick 464. Instead of the capillary wick 464, it is envisaged that a capillary member (not shown) may be used alternatively. Such a member generally includes plural capillary passages on an outer surface thereof. These passages act, via capillary action, to transfer fragrance from the liquid reservoir 326 to the orifice plate 462 and / or actuator 472. A more detailed explanation of the atomization device described above can be found in the US Pat. 10/412, 91 1 commonly assigned co-pending, filed April 14, 2003. In addition, a more detailed explanation of the support structure for the atomizing device can be found in co-pending US Patent Application No. 10 / 304,215. Commonly assigned, filed on November 26, 2002. The description of the application '215 is hereby incorporated by reference. Of course, other fragrance emission devices can be replaced as desired in consideration of design options, manufacturing costs, etc. Specifically, it is envisioned that evaporation devices, heat assisted evaporation devices, and fan assisted evaporation devices, among others, may be used in place of the piezoelectric driven atomization device described above. On the other hand, even within each type of distributor, variations are possible, as will be appreciated by one skilled in the art. Power source The power source supplies power to illuminate the light source, and if required, to operate the fragrance dispenser (eg, supply voltages for the upper and lower surfaces of the actuator plate in the fragrance dispenser of atomization type discussed above). Also, the power source can be used to drive additional components (although they are not shown, these additional components may include, for example, a fan). In a preferred embodiment, the power source comprises one or more batteries. When a battery is used, a rising voltage can be used to ensure sufficient power. The batteries can be replaceable, or they can be rechargeable. If rechargeable batteries are used, they can be removed for recharging, or an adapter can be provided in the device such that the batteries can be charged without being removed from the device. For example, a receptacle (not shown) may be incorporated in the device to receive a plug that supplies power, for example, from an electrical outlet. It is not required, however, that the power source comprises batteries. For example, the energy for the device can be derived directly from an electrical output. As will be appreciated by an expert, however, the use of alternate power sources may require that the device also include an AC to DC converter. Control circuits As used throughout, the term "control circuits" is intended to be a representative term comprising all controls that may be used and incorporated into the invention. For example, preferred embodiments are discussed below with reference to microcontrollers and / or circuit boards. The microcontrollers and circuit boards constitute the control circuits. Other contemplated examples of control circuits that may be used to represent the invention are an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), microprocessor, and arrangement of one or more resistors and / or capacitors. Control circuits may or may not include software. However, these examples of control circuits are not limiting. Other control circuits can also be used. The control circuits are used to control the operation of the device and generally driven by batteries. Specifically, the control circuits are designed to provide signals to control the operation of the light source. When one or more LEDs are provided as the light source, the microcontroller can alter the operating cycles of the LEDs to control the perceived intensity of the light emitted, so as to create the intermittent candle-like effect. Alternatively, instead of altering the operating cycles, the microcontroller can otherwise adjust the light emitting properties of the LEDs. For example, methods using an analog sine wave or a digital potentiometer are generally known in the art. In other embodiments, when at least two LEDs are used, such as in Figures 8A-8C, and an LED 306b receives a constant current to emit light constantly, the LED 306b can be controlled separately from a circuit board, both for receive a supply of energy from the power source, when the device is activated, so as not to receive power, when the device is turned off. That is, when a LED 306b constantly emits light, it is not necessary to provide means for adjusting the operating cycle thereof (for example microcontroller). In this case, the microcontroller can adjust the operation only of the flashing LEDs. In other embodiments, the constant emission LED can be controlled by the pulse width modulation established by the microcontroller, such that the frequency of the width pulses is imperceptible to an observer. In this way, the intensity of the constant emission LED can be varied slightly to be added to the total intermittent display. Also, when the preferred fragrance dispenser discussed above is used, the microcontroller can include circuits to convert the battery power to the alternating high frequency voltages required to expand and contract the actuator member 472, thereby emitting the fragrance from the fragrance distributor 4.

In addition, the microcontroller can control a fan and / or a heating element, if it is used. In addition, the microcontroller may include controls to automatically turn off and / or activate one or both of the light source and fragrance dispenser. Support structure The invention also includes a support structure, provided to support the light source, fragrance emitter, energy source, and the microcontroller, or a certain combination thereof. The term "support structure" is intended to encompass any and all of the chassis, housing, fastener, and base, while such terms are used in the description of the preferred embodiments, as well as similar structures used to support or contain the features of the invention. Preferred Modalities Having now generally described the components of the invention, the discussion will now be made of the preferred embodiments of a light and substance emitting device according to the invention. These preferred embodiments include several new arrangements of the components described above, as well as additional features. The first embodiment is described in Figures 1-5 and will be described with reference to such figures. As best seen in Figures 2 and 3, a chassis 102 is provided including a chassis cover 102a, upper chassis portion 102b, and a lower chassis portion 102c. Located in chassis 1 02 are two batteries 1 18, assembly of atomizer based on wick 1 08, a single LED 1 06, and two printed circuit boards 1 14, 1 16. Each of the two microcontrollers 1 10, 1 12 it is located in the circuit boards 1 14, 1 16. (While in this mode two microcontrollers 1 10, 1 12 (one for each of the LED 106 and atomizer assembly 108) and two circuit boards 1 14, 1 16 (one for each of LED 106 and atomizer assembly 108), a simple microcontroller and / or a simple circuit board can be used to control both LED 1 06 as atomizer 108). As shown, the chassis cover 1 02a and the upper chassis portion 102b are connectable to form a cavity therebetween, and the lower chassis portion 1 02c hangs down from a bottom of the upper chassis portion 102b. In this embodiment, the atomizer assembly 108, LED 106, microcontrollers 1 1 0, 1 12, and the printed circuit boards 1 14, 1 16 are located within the cavity formed between the chassis cover 102 a and the upper portion of chassis 102b. The electrical contacts 122, where the batteries 1 1 8 come into contact to supply the device 100 with power, are located in the lower portion 102c of the chassis 102, with the batteries 1 18 located in contact with the electrical contacts 122. In this mode , the batteries 1 18 are removably insurable to the lower portion 102c of the chassis 102. A battery retainer 120 can also be provided to assist in the maintenance connection of the batteries 1 18 to the chassis 102. When the batteries 1 18 separate from the chassis 102, the retainer 120 must first be removed.

Also in this embodiment, an inlet (not shown) is formed in the bottom of the upper portion 102b of the chassis 102, next to the atomizer assembly 108, so that a reservoir 126 containing a liquid to be atomized can be easily detached from, and joining the atomizer assembly 108. Accordingly, this arrangement provides the user with access to batteries 18 and reservoir 126 (for example, to allow batteries 18 and reservoir 126 to be changed), but the remaining components they are maintained within the cavity formed between the chassis cover 102a and the upper chassis portion 102b, reducing the possibility of contact with, and possible damage to, those components. As shown in Figures 1 and 3, in the first embodiment, a projection, or tip 124 extends axially and ascendingly from the top of the chassis cover 102a. Preferably, the LED 106 is located within the tip 124, such that the light emitted from the LED 106 is diffused by, and transmitted through, the tip 124. In this embodiment, as described in Figure 2, the tip 124 is a separate component of the device 100, located within an aperture formed through the upper chassis part 102. The tip 124 can also be formed integrally with the chassis 102. By making the tip 124 a separate part, however, the tip 124 can be replaceable, for example, with other tips, constructed differently, or with color. Also, a separate tip 124 may be formed of a material different from that used for the chassis. For example, tip 124 may be formed of a material through which light is transmitted, for example, plastic, glass, wax, and the like. Additionally, the tip 124 can be formed of a material that glows in the dark or of a material that continues to shine for a time after the LED 106 goes off. Openings different from those formed for the insertion of the tip 124 can also be formed in the chassis 1 02a. For example, an emissive aperture 136 is preferably formed through the upper surface of the chassis 102, on the atomizer assembly 108, such that the emissive substance through the atomizer passes through the emissive aperture 136, in the ambient environment. In addition, the openings can be formed in the chassis 102, through which the switches are located. For example, an emission control switch cover 128 (which cooperates with a slider switch (not shown)), in communication with the microcontroller 1 12 which controls the synchronization of the operating cycle applied to the atomizer assembly 1 08, can be provide to allow a user to manually adjust a quantity of substance emitted. In this way, the user can optimize the amount of emission, based on external considerations, such as room size, and the like. In addition, an on / off switch or button 130 can also be provided in an aperture formed through the chassis 102, to turn off and turn on one or both of the LED 106 and atomizer 108. For example, as shown in Figure 1, the on / off lever switch 130, which is electrically connected to the LED 108, is located in an opening through the upper surface of the chassis 102, thereby enabling a user to turn the LED 108 on and off. shown, a similar toggle switch, push button, or the like, may also be provided to turn the atomizer assembly 08 on and off. In other embodiments, the chassis 102 may have exposed sections, such that the openings do not need to be formed .

The chassis 102, with attached components, is preferably removably coupled to a base, or cup 134. The coupling of the chassis 1 02 with the base 134 forms a unitary housing in which the atomizer assembly 1 08, tank 126, batteries 1 18 and controls are located. In the preferred embodiment, the base 134 is generally cylindrical, including a side wall and a bottom surface. The upper part of the base is open. The upper portion 102b of the chassis 102 is also generally cylindrical, with an external diameter substantially the same as that of the base 134. By lowering the chassis 102 in the base 134, the lower portion 102c of the chassis 102 is located within the base 134, and the upper portion 1 02b of the chassis 102 is located proximate the open upper part of the base 134. The unitary housing thus formed has the appearance of a cylinder, with a tip projecting axially upwardly from approximately a central portion of the part. top of the cylinder. While one skilled in the art will understand that there are many ways to detachably couple the chassis with respect to the base, a preferred method of coupling is described as follows. A substantially C-shaped receptacle is formed in the lower portion of the chassis 1 02, and a projection extends axially upwardly from the bottom surface of the base 1 34. When the chassis 1 02 is lowered into the base 134 , the C-shaped receptacle of the lower portion 102c of the chassis 1 02 receives therein the projection formed in the base 134. In this way, proper alignment of the chassis 1 02 within the base 134 is achieved. On the other hand, as it should be understood, because the chassis 102 and the base 134 each have a cylindrical mark and the C-shaped protrusion and receptacle are placed on respective shafts, the chassis 102 easily attaches to the base 1 34 regardless of the rotational orientation of the chassis 102 relative to the base 1 34. Preferably, the dimensions of the chassis 102 and the combination of the base 1 34 are in any part between approximately one inch (25.4 mm) and approximately six inches (152.4). mm) in diameter and preferably anywhere between approximately one inch (25.4 mm) and approximately six inches (1 52.4 mm) in height. Of course, the dimensions can be larger or smaller, depending on the desired aesthetics. Also, because as described above, at least a portion of the intermittent LED 106 is located within the tip 124, which preferably diffuses the emitted light, the tip 124 has the appearance of the flame of a conventional candle. All or a portion of the rest of the device 100 can also transmit light. Light transmissive materials that can be used include glass, plastic, wax, and the like. Also, by moving the LED inside the tip, a more realistic perception of a conventional candle can be obtained.

Thus, according to the first embodiment of the invention, the combination of the chassis 102 and the base 134, as a result of its resemblance to a conventional candle, can be provided to a consumer for use with existing votive fasteners for conventional candles. Alternatively, the invention can be represented in the combination of the chassis 102 and base 134 with the fastener 1 04 (as shown in Figure 4). Furthermore, it should also be understood that the chassis 102 can be designed to support itself, ie, without the base 1 34. For example, the lower portion 1 02c of the chassis 1 02 can be designed to allow the entire chassis 102 to stand on its own . A second embodiment of the invention will now be described with reference to Figures 6 and 7. This embodiment includes many of the same components as discussed above with respect to the first embodiment, and the descriptions thereof will not be repeated. According to this second embodiment, a chassis 202 (different from the chassis 1 02 of the first mode) is provided. An atomizer assembly 208, LED 206, two circuit boards, microcontroller, and a battery 218 are located in the chassis 202. As illustrated, the chassis 202 includes an upper portion 202a, an upper portion 202b, located below the upper portion 202a, and a lower portion 202c, located below the upper portion 202b. The atomizer assembly 208 is arranged in the upper portion 202b of the chassis 202, and a reservoir 226 containing a fluid that will be atomized by the atomizer assembly 208 is detachably attachable to the atomizer assembly 208. The lower portion 202c of the chassis 202 is located sufficiently below the upper portion 202b of the chassis 202 to facilitate detachment and replacement of the reservoir 226. The lower portion preferably includes an internal cavity in which the controls are located, i.e. circuit boards and microcontrollers (not shown) . The LED 206 is located near an upper surface of the lower portion 202c of the chassis 202. More specifically, the LED 206 of this embodiment is located in a circuit board located within the internal cavity of the lower portion 202c of the chassis 202. An opening is formed through an upper portion of the lower portion 202c of the chassis 202, and at least a portion of the LED 206 protrudes through the opening. The battery 218 is located below the lower portion of the chassis 202. As would be appreciated by one skilled in the art, electrical cables and the like may be necessary for communication between the battery 218, controls, LED 206, and the mounting of the battery. Atomizer 208. As shown in Figure 7, chassis 202 is detachably positioned within a base 234. Base 234 is generally cylindrical, with a bottom surface (not shown) and an open top. The chassis 202 is received in the base 234 through the open top. The chassis 202 and the base 234, when the chassis 202 is placed on the base 234, form a unitary housing in which the LED 208, substance emitter 206, controls, and the battery 21 are located. Preferably, the chassis 202 and base 234 are configured such that the top surface of the chassis 202 is located within the open top portion of the base 234, and the housing formed by the combination of the chassis 202 and the base 234 resembles a conventional pillar candle. Similar to the first embodiment, the housing of the second embodiment also preferably includes an emission aperture aligned with the atomizer assembly 208. Specifically, because in this embodiment the atomizer is arranged below the upper portion 202a of the chassis 202, the Emission aperture 236 is formed through upper portion 202a of chassis 202. In this way, atomized liquid within the housing can be released in the ambient environment. Again, similar to the first modalityMeans are also provided for adjusting the amount of substance emitted by the emitter 208 and for turning the LED 206 on and off. As shown in Figures 6 and 7, a slide switch 228, in communication with the microcontroller which controls the Atomizer 208 is located at lower portion 202c of chassis 202. Slide switch 228 is manually adjustable between multiple positions to regulate the frequency at which atomizer assembly 208 emits the substance contained in reservoir 226. In addition, a button pressure 230 is located on top 202a of chassis 202 to turn LED 206 on and off. As will be appreciated from the figures, because controls, i.e., circuit boards and microcontrollers, associated with atomizer assembly 208 and LED 206 are located within the lower portion 202c of the chassis 202, and the atomizer assembly 208 and push button 230 are located near the top 202a of the chassis 202, electrical wires are provided for transporting controls from the lower portion 202c of the chassis 202 to the atomizer 280, and a pin 252 is provided to transmit the action of the push button 230 located in the upper portion 202a of the chassis 202 to a switch on the circuit board that turns the LED on and off In a similar regard, it may also be beneficial to have the slide switch 228 to adjust the fluid emission contained in the reservoir 226 located in the upper part of the housing (e.g. , for ease of access for the user), it may also be necessary to provide mechanical, electrical, and / or electromechanical means to connect the slide switch and the appropriate controls. According to this second embodiment, a light and substance emission device 200 is provided. Preferably, as mentioned above, the housing (i.e., the combined chassis 202 and base 234) of the device 200 is configured and sized to resemble a conventional pillar candle. As it should be understood, since the LED 206 emitting intermittent light is located within the housing, much of the light will be transmitted through the side wall of the base 234. Accordingly, at least a portion of the base 234 It must be able to transmit light. In addition, at least a portion of the chassis 202 may also be capable of transmitting light. To these ends, all or a portion of the chassis 202 and / or base 234 may be formed of one or more of glass, plastic, wax, and the like. Variations of this second modality are also contemplated. For example, while the fastener 234 is generally cylindrical, it is not required. Rectangular shapes and sizes, squares, and a thousand more are contemplated. In addition, while the chassis 202 is inserted through an upper part of the base 234, this is not required. For example, the base may be open at the bottom, such that the base slides on the chassis 202, or the base 234 and chassis 202 may be formed integrally, with access panels for replacing the reservoir 226, battery 218, and the like. . A third embodiment of the invention will now be described with reference to Figures 8A-8C, 9, and 10. In this embodiment, a preferred light emitting device and substance 300 of the invention includes a chassis 302 comprising a chassis cover 302a and . a chassis base 302b which together form a cavity that encloses each of the two LEDs 306a, 306b, fragrance emitter 308, two batteries 31 8, and a printed circuit board with the microcontroller 31 0. The LEDs 306a, 306b are connected both directly and indirectly with both batteries 318 and microcontroller 310. While the alignment of fragrance emitter 308, batteries 318, and microcontroller 310 within chassis 302 is not critical, each of these components is preferably located below a surface top of the chassis cover 302a. As well, the LEDs 306a, 306b are preferably located substantially centrally with respect to an upper surface of the device, and on the fragrance emitter 308, batteries 318, and microcontroller 31 0, ie, on one side of the fragrance emitter 308, batteries 31 8, and microcontroller 31 0 opposite the chassis base 302b. At least a portion of the LEDs 306a, 306b are preferably located on an upper surface of the chassis cover 302a. By placing the LEDs 306a, 306b on the other components in this way, the emission of light is not impeded by these components, so the shadows are substantially prevented, and a flame with a more realistic appearance is created. Although the alignment of various features within the chassis 302 is not critical, the chassis 302 preferably includes a horizontal platform 342 (preferably located in the chassis base 302b) to align the fragrance emitter 308 within the chassis 302 .. The platform 342 preferably has a platform opening 344 therethrough with one or more cuts 346 formed at a periphery of the platform opening 344. Preferably, the replaceable reservoir 326 comprises one or more protrusion 348 (one corresponding to each of cuts 346 formed on platform 342) formed in reservoir 326. To insert a reservoir 326, a portion of the reservoir 326 passes through the platform opening 344 of the platform 342, with the protuberances 348 passing through the cuts 346. Once the protuberances 348 cancel the cuts 346, the tank 326 rotates such that the protuberances 348 are supported on the upper surface of the platform 342. Also, as discussed above, the wire type support 466 (not shown in Figures 8A-8C) is attached to the upper part of the platform 342, which supports the atomizer assembly 308. In addition, the internal surfaces of the chassis 302 may contain several projections. These projections are preferably provided to assist in the correct alignment of various components within the chassis 302 and / or to protect components within the chassis 302. For example, a vertical projection 350 (shown in Figure 8C) divides an area to contain the emitter of fragrance 308 of an area having the microcontroller 31 0. In this way, the microcontroller 31 0 is not accessible when the reservoir 326 is replaced, and, therefore, inadvertent damage to, or accidental contamination of the microcontroller 31 is avoided. 0. The chassis cover 302a is designed such that it can be placed in the chassis base 302b, in this way a unitary device is formed 300. A projection or tip 324 is preferably located approximately centrally on chassis cover 302a. The tip 324 extends generally axially, in a direction away from the chassis base 302b and forms a cavity in which the LEDs 306a, 306b are located when the chassis cover 302a is placed in the chassis base 302b. (As discussed above, the LEDs 306a, 306b are preferably arranged one above the other). The tip 324 is substantially conical in shape and is preferably made of a material that diffuses the light emitted by the LEDs 306a, 306b. However, it may be desirable to alter the shape of the projection, when, for example, more than two LEDs are used, or the housing is relatively wide. For example, tip 324 may be more domed, when a wider tip 324 is used with a wide device 300 (to keep tip 324 relatively close to chassis 302). Tip 324 is preferably between about one-eighth of an inch and about three inches high and between about one-eighth of an inch and about three inches wide. The remainder of the device 300 is preferably between about two inches and about ten inches high and preferably between about one and one-half inches and about six inches wide. Configured in this way, the device 300 can substantially acquire the size and shape of several conventional candles, while the tip 324, encapsulates the LEDs 306a, 306b, simulating a flame. The chassis cover 302a also includes an emission opening 336 therethrough. When the chassis cover 302a is placed in the chassis base 302b, the emitting aperture 336 aligns with the fragrance emitter 308. In particular, the emitting aperture 336 is formed such that a fragrance distributed by the fragrance emitter 308 passes through the chassis cover 302a to the ambient air, i.e., the chassis cover 302a does not prevent the fragrance propagation of the fragrance emitter 308. The chassis cover 302a is preferably secured to the chassis base 302b, although such it is not required. For example, as shown in Figure 8A, the chassis cover 302a can be detachably attached to the chassis base 302b such that access, for example, to the reservoir 326 and / or batteries 31 8, can be achieved for the purposes replacement. When the chassis cover 302a is detachably attached to the chassis base 302b, a locking mechanism can be used. For example, attractive magnets can be placed in chassis cover 302a and chassis base 302b, or chassis cover 302a can include a feature that is designed for compatibility with a chassis base chassis 302b. In this way, only specific covers and bases can be used. In another aspect, we contemplate that the chassis base 302b and the chassis cover 302a, when secured together to form the unit device 300, can move relatively. Specifically, when the chassis cover 302a is cylindrical, it can rotate in the chassis base 302b. For example, the chassis cover rotation 302a can turn on and off the LEDs 306a, 306b and / or the fragrance emitter 308. As an alternative to the removable chassis cover 302a, when, for example, a new or reservoir 326 is empty, device 300 may include a door for tank replacement purposes 326. Examples of two doors contemplated 338a, 338b are illustrated in Figures 9 and 10, respectively. As shown in Figure 9, the door 338a can be located on the side of the device 300. The door 338a preferably articulates and does not completely detach from the device 300. As shown, the door 338a can be opened to gain access to the door. reservoir 326. Alternatively, the door 338b may be formed at the bottom of the device 300. For example, as shown in Fig. 10, a substantially circular door 338b is detachable from the device 300. In this configuration, the reservoir 326 is preferably coupling to the door 338b. By coupling the reservoir 326 thereto, the door 338b supports the reservoir 326, and, when mounted, ensures proper positioning of the wick 464 with respect to the atomizer assembly 308. Specifically, when the door 338b comes off, the wick 464 of the reservoir 326 is removed from contact with the atomizer assembly 308. The reservoir 326 then detaches from the door 338b, a new reservoir 326 engages the door 338b, and the door 338b is reattached, with the reservoir 326 aligning with the atomizer assembly 308. When the door 338b of Fig. 1 0 is used, it may be unnecessary for the horizontal platform 342 to clamp and align the reservoir 326, since the door 338b will perform these functions. As such, the horizontal platform 342 will support the atomizer assembly 308, both directly, and preferably, with the wire type support 466 discussed above. The chassis base 302b may also include one or more openings 340 through which the user's control switches pass. Lever switches 332, for example, allow a user to turn on and off one or more of fragrance emitter 308 and LEDs 306a, 306b, and a slide switch 328 allows a user to adjust the frequency at which the fragrance is emitted from the Fragrance emitter 308. Alternatively or additionally, the switches may also be provided so as to allow a user to adjust the light emission properties of the LEDs 306a, 306b, or change a display of emitted light. Thus, the third embodiment provides yet another light and substance emitting device 300. According to the first and second embodiments described above, the device 300 can be configured to mimic the size and shape of a conventional candle. As should be evident in this manner, in each of the preferred embodiments, a unitary housing comprises a device that emits both an intermittent light and a substance, such as a fragrance, into the ambient air. As discussed above, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the device is inserted into a fastener. While many common replaceable votive candles would be placed in decorative fasteners, the invention also provides unique fasteners for use with lighting devices according to the invention. Figure 5 shows the device 100 of the first embodiment in a fastener 1 04. Specifically, the fastener 104 has a balloon-like shape, with a bottom, and an open top, similar to a conventional fastener for a votive candle. The unit housing comprising the combination of the chassis 102 and the base 134 is placed within the fastener 104, through the open top portion of the fastener 1 04. Preferably, at least a portion of the fastener 104 allows light to be emitted to the fastener 104. through it. Figures 11 and 12A-12D show some representative alternative fastener configurations 304 in which a light and fragrance emitting device 300 can be placed. These examples are not limiting in any way. When a fragrance emitter is used, the fragrance emitted must also be emitted from the fastener, and thus the fastener is preferred to provide ample ventilation. In particular, the light and fragrance emission device is preferably arranged in the fastener such that the emission opening through which the fragrance is distributed is about one inch (25.4 millimeters) and about six inches (152.4 millimeters) from the of the fastener and substantially outside the inner surface of the fastener. More preferably, the emitting aperture is between substantially equal to and approximately five inches (127.0 millimeters) from the top of the fastener. With such an arrangement, the accumulation of fragrance inside the fastener is minimized. On the other hand, the fastener can be designed to help the flow of fragrance to the surrounding environment. By sharpening the fastener such that the width of the fastener is reduced closer to the top of the fastener, the air flow will increase as it exits the fastener.

In addition, we prefer that the fastener does not impede the emission of the light of the LEDs. Specifically, the unit housing is preferably arranged in the fastener such that the tip (as used in the first and third embodiments, discussed above) is between about one-half inch (12.7 millimeters) and about two inches (50.8 millimeters) of the fastener, and preferably closer to one inch (25.4). The bra can also act as a diffuser. In addition, we anticipate that the fastener could further include, for example, a fan to aid in the further dispersion of fragrance emitted from the fragrance emitter. The fastener may comprise a single piece in which the housing is placed. Alternatively, as shown in Figures 12A-12D, a fastener 304 may also comprise a fastener base 304a and a fastener housing 304b. More specifically, the device is contained within, or alternatively comprises, the fastener base 304a that receives and supports the fastener cover 304b. The fastener cover 304b, when supported by the fastener base 304a, covers the tip 324. That is, the light emitted from the housing by the respective lighting devices also passes through the fastener cover 304b.

Alternatively, the housing, for example the upper portion 324, may not diffuse the emitted light, and only the fastener cover 304b diffuses the emitted light. According to a specific example of this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12A, a fastener base 304a containing a unitary device as described above in preferred embodiments has a circumferential rim 304c extending radially outward from the base of fastener 304a. At least a lower portion 304d of the fastener cover 304b is dimensioned to engage the flange 304c of the fastener base 304a, so that the fastener cover 304b is supported on the fastener base 304a. Other illustrative examples of fasteners 304 are shown in Figures 12B-12D. While we anticipate that the fastener cover 304b may rest on the fastener base 304a, it is preferable that the fastener cover 304b be disconnectably attached to the fastener base 304a. For example, the fastener cover 304b can be designed to be fastened on the fastener base 304a. Alternatively, the fastener cover 304b and the fastener base 304a can be designed such that the fastener cover 304b rotates on the fastener base 304a, forming a closure coupling. In this or any configuration, the fastener cover 304b may be relatively movable when secured to the fastener base 304a. Specifically, when the fastener cover 304b is generally cylindrical, it can rotate about the fastener base 304a to turn on and off the LEDs 306a, 306b and / or the fragrance emitter 308. Additionally, the engagement and disengagement of the fastener cover 304b and the fastener base 304a can act to turn on and off the light source and / or substance emitter. In this way, the device would operate only with the attached fastener cover 304b. On the other hand, the fastener cover 304b and the fastener base 304a can be specially designed such that only certain covers 304b can be used with the fastener base 304a. For example, the fastener base 304a may include a reader (not shown) that reads an ID (e.g., an RF tag) of the fastener cover 304b. In this way, the device will not work unless the fastener cover 304b has an appropriate ID. When the fastener 304 is used according to the mode, we also anticipate that the fastener cover 304b could emit a fragrance therefrom. For example, impregnable materials such as polyolefins are known to be impregnated or infused with a fragrance. Forming the fastener cover 304b of such material, the fastener cover 304b will emit a fragrance for a time, in addition to that emitted by the fragrance emitter 308. Alternatively, the device of this mode could not include the fragrance emitter 308, in which case, only the fastener cover 304b will emit a fragrance. Also, with respect to the second embodiment described above, we observe that the combination of the chassis and the base, resembles a decorative candle, in which case a fastener can not be desired. In such a case the base or chassis can be impregnated with a fragrance. Because the fastener cover 304b of this embodiment is removable, access to the device is facilitated (for example, to turn the LEDs 306a, 306b on or off) and the fastener cover 304b can be easily replaced. For example, when the fragrance impregnated in the fastener cover 304b is fully spread, a fresh, new fastener cover 304b can be easily acquired and attached. Also, a user who has recently redecorated, or who wishes to move the device to another room, can purchase a fastener cover 304b that has a certain color or other aesthetic characteristic. On the other hand, the replacement fastener covers 304b may provide different odors. In other modalities, the complete (or base) bra may be replaced. While several preferred embodiments have been established above, many different embodiments may be constructed without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above. On the contrary, the invention is convenient to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the claims. The claims must be according to the broadest scope, to cover all modifications, equivalent structures, and functions.

Industrial Applicability The invention provides a device for the emission of light and / or fragrance. The device provides a generally desired aesthetic atmosphere in an area, such as a room.

Claims (10)

1 . A device for emitting light and substance comprising: a light source emitting an intermittent light that mimics a flame of a candle; an emitter that emits a volatile active ingredient; a source of energy that supplies energy to such a light source and to the emitter; control circuits that control at least one (i) of such light source to blink and (ii) such emitter to emit the volatile active ingredient; and a support structure that supports such light source, emitter, power source, and microcontroller. The device according to claim 1, wherein said support structure comprises: a chassis in which said light source, emitter, power source, and control circuits are located; and a fastener to which such a chassis is engageable, such a fastener includes a light diffuser for diffusing light emitted from such a light source. 3. The device according to claim 1, wherein said support structure comprises a chassis in which are located such luminous source, emitter, power source and control circuits, wherein the chassis is adapted to be dockable with and supported by a bra. 4. The device according to claim 1, wherein said emitter comprises an atomizer that atomizes a liquid contained in a reservoir, the reservoir is releasably secured to said support structure for coupling with such an atomizer. 5. The device according to claim 4, further comprising a switch for adjusting the amount of volatile active ingredient emitted by such atomizer. The device according to claim 1, wherein said light source comprises one or more LEDs. The device according to claim 1, wherein said light source comprises only one LED. 8. The device according to claim 1, further comprising an on / off switch for activating and extinguishing said light source. 9. The device according to claim 1, wherein a portion of such a support structure diffuses the intermittent light emitted by said light source. The device according to claim 9, wherein the portion of the support structure that diffuses the flashing light is formed of at least one of wax, crystal, and plastic. eleven . The device according to claim 1, wherein the power supply comprises a single battery, and a voltage riser is used to supply sufficient energy to one or both of the light source and emitter. 1

2. A device for emitting light and substance comprising: a light source emitting an intermittent light that mimics a flame of a candle; a substance emitter that emits a volatile active ingredient; control circuits that control at least one of such light source and emitter; a source of energy that supplies energy to the light source, to emit the intermittent light, and to the emitter of substance, to emit the volatile active ingredient; a chassis in which one or more of the light source, substance emitter, control circuits, and power source are located; and a fastener to which the chassis can be detachably positioned, the fastener and the chassis form a housing in which are located such a light source, substance emitter, control circuits, and power source, wherein at least one of the Chassis and bra includes a diffuser that diffuses the light emitted by the light source. The device according to claim 12, wherein the light source comprises at least one LED. The device according to claim 12, wherein the emitter comprises an atomizer that atomizes a liquid contained in a reservoir, and the reservoir is removably secured to the chassis. The device according to claim 14, wherein the control circuits control both the atomizer and light source. 16. The device according to claim 12, wherein at least one of the chassis and body is formed of at least one of wax, glass, and plastic. The device according to claim 12, wherein an opening is formed through the housing and the substance emitter emits the volatile active ingredient through the opening. The device according to claim 17, wherein the substance emitter is located on the light source and the light transmitted from the light source is transmitted mainly through one side of the housing. The device according to claim 12, wherein a projection extends axially upwardly from an upper surface of the housing, at least a portion of such a light source is located within the projection, and wherein the salient comprises the diffuser. 20. The device according to claim 12, wherein the light source comprises a first LED and a second LED, arranged such that the first LED is located on the second LED. twenty-one . The device according to claim 20, wherein the first LED is controlled to interfere, and the second LED is controlled to emit a substantially continuous intensity of perceived light. 22. A light and substance emission device comprising: at least one LED emitting a flashing light that mimics a flame of a candle; a substance emitter that emits a volatile active ingredient; a source of energy that provides energy to at least one of the light source, to emit the light, and the substance emitter, to emit the volatile active ingredient; and at least one of a simple microcontroller and a simple circuit board, to control both of the light source to emit the light and the emissivity of susínation to emit the volatile active ingredient. 2

3. The device according to claim 22, further comprising a housing within which there is located at least one of at least one LED, substance emitter, power source, and at least one of such simple microcontroller and board of simple circuit. The device according to claim 23, wherein at least one housing portion diffuses the light emitted from at least one LED. 25. The device according to claim 22, wherein the emitter of susancia comprises an aomizer that aomizes the volatile active ingredient, the volatile active ingredient is confined within a deposit, and the deposit is releasably secured to the afomizer.