US20010001705A1 - Utility lighter platform - Google Patents
Utility lighter platform Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20010001705A1 US20010001705A1 US09/767,153 US76715301A US2001001705A1 US 20010001705 A1 US20010001705 A1 US 20010001705A1 US 76715301 A US76715301 A US 76715301A US 2001001705 A1 US2001001705 A1 US 2001001705A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- frame
- utility lighter
- fuel supply
- assembly
- trigger
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
- 239000000446 fuel Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 91
- 230000000153 supplemental effect Effects 0.000 claims description 20
- 230000003213 activating effect Effects 0.000 claims description 3
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 abstract description 36
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 8
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 7
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 6
- 229920000122 acrylonitrile butadiene styrene Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 239000004020 conductor Substances 0.000 description 4
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 3
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 description 3
- 235000019640 taste Nutrition 0.000 description 3
- 238000003466 welding Methods 0.000 description 3
- XECAHXYUAAWDEL-UHFFFAOYSA-N acrylonitrile butadiene styrene Chemical compound C=CC=C.C=CC#N.C=CC1=CC=CC=C1 XECAHXYUAAWDEL-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 239000004676 acrylonitrile butadiene styrene Substances 0.000 description 2
- 235000021168 barbecue Nutrition 0.000 description 2
- 239000013078 crystal Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000000994 depressogenic effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 210000004247 hand Anatomy 0.000 description 2
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000010985 leather Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910001369 Brass Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 241001272720 Medialuna californiensis Species 0.000 description 1
- 239000004677 Nylon Substances 0.000 description 1
- HCHKCACWOHOZIP-UHFFFAOYSA-N Zinc Chemical compound [Zn] HCHKCACWOHOZIP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 125000000218 acetic acid group Chemical group C(C)(=O)* 0.000 description 1
- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000010951 brass Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000001273 butane Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000008859 change Effects 0.000 description 1
- 235000019506 cigar Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 235000019504 cigarettes Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 238000002485 combustion reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000881 depressing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 210000003811 finger Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 239000002737 fuel gas Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000007789 gas Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- IJDNQMDRQITEOD-UHFFFAOYSA-N n-butane Chemical compound CCCC IJDNQMDRQITEOD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- OFBQJSOFQDEBGM-UHFFFAOYSA-N n-pentane Natural products CCCCC OFBQJSOFQDEBGM-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 229920001778 nylon Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 238000000926 separation method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229910001220 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000010935 stainless steel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000013589 supplement Substances 0.000 description 1
- 210000003813 thumb Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 235000019505 tobacco product Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 239000011701 zinc Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052725 zinc Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C10—PETROLEUM, GAS OR COKE INDUSTRIES; TECHNICAL GASES CONTAINING CARBON MONOXIDE; FUELS; LUBRICANTS; PEAT
- C10L—FUELS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; NATURAL GAS; SYNTHETIC NATURAL GAS OBTAINED BY PROCESSES NOT COVERED BY SUBCLASSES C10G, C10K; LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS; ADDING MATERIALS TO FUELS OR FIRES TO REDUCE SMOKE OR UNDESIRABLE DEPOSITS OR TO FACILITATE SOOT REMOVAL; FIRELIGHTERS
- C10L11/00—Manufacture of firelighters
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F23—COMBUSTION APPARATUS; COMBUSTION PROCESSES
- F23Q—IGNITION; EXTINGUISHING-DEVICES
- F23Q2/00—Lighters containing fuel, e.g. for cigarettes
- F23Q2/28—Lighters characterised by electrical ignition of the fuel
- F23Q2/285—Lighters characterised by electrical ignition of the fuel with spark ignition
- F23Q2/287—Lighters characterised by electrical ignition of the fuel with spark ignition piezoelectric
Definitions
- the present invention generally relates to general purpose utility lighters such as those used to ignite candles, barbecue grills, fireplaces and campfires. More specifically, the present invention relates to utility lighter platforms which are inner operative lighters without outer shells.
- Lighters such as those used for igniting tobacco products, such as cigars, cigarettes, and pipes, have developed over a number of years. Typically, these lighters use either a rotary friction element or a piezoelectric element to generate a spark in proximity to a nozzle emitting fuel from a fuel container. Piezoelectric mechanisms have gained universal acceptance because they are simple for adults to use. One such piezoelectric mechanism is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,262,697 (“the '697 patent”). The disclosure of the '697 patent is incorporated by reference herein.
- Utility lighters also have to appeal to the changing tastes of the consumers. For instance, some consumers may prefer smaller handles. Some consumers may prefer shorter handles. Some consumers may prefer a soft feel grip or a leather grip. Some may like a full trigger guard over a partial trigger guard. Some consumers may prefer a utility lighter with smooth curves and seamless lines, while other may want pronounced lines and sharp curves. Often, the lighter manufacturer may need to redesign the entire utility lighter including the outer shell, as well as the internal mechanisms, in order to satisfy market demands.
- a utility lighter platform which comprises a lighting mechanism configured to selectively ignite fuel supplied from a fuel supply container, and a frame configured to operatively house the lighting mechanism and configured to receive an ergonomically designed outer shell thereon.
- the lighting mechanism may include an ignitor assembly configured to generate a voltage between its first and second ends, a valve actuator associated with the fuel supply for selectively releasing fuel therefrom, an actuating assembly associated with the valve actuator to dispense fuel from the fuel supply and with the ignitor assembly to generate the voltage, and a latch stem associated with the actuating assembly and configured to selectively prevent operative movement the actuating assembly.
- the latch stem further comprises a hooked tab connected for biased movement relative to the actuating assembly and normally biased into engagement with the actuating assembly to prevent the operative movement thereof, wherein the user may selectively bias the hooked tab out of engagement with the actuating assembly to permit operation of the actuating assembly.
- the latch stem is adapted to receive an aethestically pleasing cover.
- the actuating assembly comprises a trigger stem extending from the frame and movable to activate the valve actuator and the ignitor assembly.
- the trigger stem is adapted to receive an aethestically pleasing trigger head.
- the actuating assembly further comprises a biased pivoting member operatively associated with the trigger and the ignitor assembly for activating at least the ignitor assembly when the trigger is moved toward the valve actuator.
- the frame is further configured to operatively house the ignitor assembly, the valve actuator, the actuating assembly and the latch stem.
- the frame is further configured to operatively house the hooked tab, the trigger, and the biased pivoting member.
- the utility lighter platform may be further provided with a supplemental frame configured to securely house the lighting mechanism when affixed to the frame.
- the frame comprises a fuel supply container housing structure configured to hold a fuel supply container at a first end of the frame, an insulating cap holding structure configured to receive an insulating cap at a second end of the frame and configured to house a nozzle operatively connected to the fuel supply, an ignitor assembly holding structure configured to house an ignitor assembly, and a trigger holding structure configured to operatively hold a trigger stem with which to activate the ignitor assembly and to release fuel from the fuel supply in order to ignite fuel received at the nozzle.
- the fuel supply container housing structure comprises a plurality of protruding members configured to securely hold the fuel supply container.
- the insulating cap holding structure comprises a semi-cylindrically shaped body defining a hollow center therein to receive the nozzle.
- the ignitor assembly holding structure comprises a plurality of recesses and protruding portions for securely housing the ignitor assembly.
- the trigger holding structure comprises a pair of bars spaced apart from each other to operatively receive the trigger stem.
- the frame can further include a wand receiving structure formed between the insulating cap holding structure and the ignitor assembly holding structure, wherein the wand receiving structure comprises a plurality of struts with recesses formed thereon to receive a conduit which connects the nozzle to the fuel supply.
- the frame can include a latch receiving structure configured to receive a latch stem, which is adopted to prevent operative movement of the trigger stem on the frame.
- the latch stem receiving structure comprises at least one protruding member adapted to securely hold the latch stem.
- FIG. 1 is a side view of a lighting mechanism housed in a frame in accordance to the present invention
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the frame
- FIG. 3 is a side view of a supplemental frame
- FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a functional utility lighter platform
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the utility lighter platform with an outer shell placed thereon.
- a utility lighter platform 10 includes a lighting mechanism configured to selectively ignite fuel released from a fuel supply container 22 .
- Platform 10 includes a frame 12 , which is adapted to operatively house an ignitor assembly 34 and fuel supply container 22 .
- Frame 12 is also configured to receive an aesthetically pleasing outer shell thereon. An example of an outer shell is illustrated in FIG. 5.
- Frame 12 includes a fuel supply holding structure 14 located near a first end 16 to receive fuel supply container 22 .
- a nozzle is disposed near a second end 20 of frame 12 for emitting fuel to feed a flame as will be described herein. It will be noted that the terms, first end 16 and second end 20 , are used to describe the present invention, and form no part of the invention.
- the fuel supply container 22 which may be a butane fuel cell, is connected to one end of a conduit 24 , such as a plastic tube, by a fluid connector 26 .
- Fluid connector 26 is connected to a valve 28 on fuel supply container 22 .
- the opposite end of conduit 24 terminates at the nozzle proximate second end 20 .
- Valve 28 is operated by a valve actuator 30 , which is pivotally attached to fuel supply container 22 .
- valve actuator 30 When valve actuator 30 is depressed as shown in FIG. 1, e.g., moved toward the first end 16 , fuel is selectively released through valve 28 , and flows through connector 26 and tube 24 , and toward the nozzle.
- An exemplary fuel supply container 22 is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,520,197 (“the '197 patent”). The disclosure of the '197 patent is incorporated herein by reference.
- An actuating assembly is also provided to facilitate the depression of valve actuator 30 and to compress ignitor assembly 34 for generating a spark near the nozzle.
- the actuating assembly preferably comprises a trigger assembly 38 , a biased pivoting member 80 , and a linking rod 46 connecting pivoting member 80 to ignitor assembly 34 .
- an electric ignitor assembly such as a piezoelectric mechanism is the preferred ignitor for this invention. More specifically, the preferred piezoelectric mechanism is generally of the type disclosed in the '697 patent, the disclosure of which has been incorporated herein by reference.
- a latch stem 36 normally locks the actuating assembly in an inoperative position such that trigger assembly 38 may not be sufficiently depressed or pulled by a user to actuate lighter 10 .
- latch stem 36 generally includes an unsupported resilient front end 40 having a hooked tab 42 .
- Hooked tab 42 is normally in engagement with a stop member structure disposed on linking rod 46 .
- the stop member structure which may be a recess formed in linking rod
- linking rod 46 may not be moved in a direction toward second end 20 to significantly compress and actuate ignitor assembly 34 .
- latch stem 36 preferably prevents sufficient movement of trigger assembly 38 toward end 16 so as to prevent successful actuation of utility lighter 10 .
- Latch stem 36 is securely affixed to frame 12 by a latch support member 43 at a back end 41 .
- latch stem 36 is fixedly attached to frame 12 at back end 41 , and is free to flex at front end 40 .
- a plurality of protruding members are provided on frame 12 to engage with corresponding recesses 45 formed in latch support member 43 , thereby securely affixing latch stem 36 to frame 12 .
- Latch stem 36 which can be in the form of a shank 411 as shown in FIG. 4, is adapted to receive an aesthetically pleasing cover thereon.
- piezoelectric mechanism 34 has been particularly described in the '697 patent. The details necessary to an understanding of this invention have been shown in the drawings of the '697 patent. In summary, however, piezoelectric mechanism 34 is a telescopic assembly, which may be compressed to generate a voltage between first and second electrical contacts 48 , 50 .
- piezoelectric mechanism 34 contains a piezoelectric crystal in electrical contact with and generally situated between electrical contacts 48 , 50 .
- Electrical contact 48 is generally referred to as an anvil and electrical contact 50 contacts an impact pad positioned on an opposite side of the piezoelectric crystal.
- First electrical contact or anvil 48 is in electrical contact with an electrically conductive wand 403 (as shown in FIG. 4).
- Conductive wand 403 is preferably made out of metal, which may be positioned over a portion of frame 12 .
- Second electrical contact 50 is connected to an insulated wire 54 having two exposed portions 56 , 58 . Exposed portion 56 is connected to contact 50 , while exposed portion 58 is connected to the nozzle.
- the nozzle which may include a diffuser spring affixed thereto, therefore acts as an electrode and is preferably formed of an electrically conductive metal such as stainless steel brass or zinc for this purpose.
- a diffuser spring can be an electrically conductive coil spring, where the space between the adjacent coils of the spring is designed to allow air to mix with the released fuel to ensure a proper air/fuel mixture suitable for combustion.
- a tab or antenna is stamped from wand 403 to create a spark gap with the nozzle or the diffuser spring.
- An opening 66 at the end of conductive wand 403 allows the passage of ignited fuel from the lighter. Also, in a conventional manner, side apertures may be provided on conductive wand 403 to allow the intake of air.
- an electrically insulating cap 70 is disposed around at least a portion of the nozzle and is generally located between the nozzle and conductive wand 403 . Insulating cap 70 deters sparks from being generated between the nozzle and surfaces of conductive wand 403 other than at the tab.
- fuel conduit 24 may be co-extruded with a conductive material along with a plastic material.
- the plastic material may be extruded to form conduit 24 to conduct fuel gas from fuel supply container 22 to the nozzle, and a conductive material may be extruded to form the inside or the outside of conduit 24 .
- the conductive material preferably have exposed portions 56 and 58 , arranged to make electrical contacts to contact 50 of piezoelectric element 34 and to the nozzle in lieu of wire 54 , respectively.
- conduit 24 may be made out of a conductive material without the inner plastic material. Additionally, it may be desirable to coat, by co-extruding, an insulating layer outside of the conductive exterior to prevent electrical arcing from the conductive exterior to wand 403 .
- Biased pivoting member 80 of the actuating assembly is operatively connected trigger assembly 38 and linking rod 46 .
- pivoting member 80 is mounted to a pin 82 in a biased manner, e.g., by a torsion spring (not shown) placed between member 80 and pin 82 such that member 80 is biased in a counterclockwise direction as viewed in FIG. 1.
- pivoting member 80 may be biased by a return spring disposed within the two telescopic members of piezoelectric mechanism 34 to maintain separation between the telescopic members.
- the return spring exerts a biasing force on rod 46 which is in physical contact with pivoting member 80 .
- Such a return spring is disclosed in the '697 patent.
- Biased pivoting member 80 further includes a pair of arms 84 , 86 generally extending from pin 82 .
- Arm 84 may include a knob 88 adapted to depress valve actuator 30 when the user pulls trigger assembly 38 .
- a portion of trigger assembly 38 itself may be used to directly engage valve actuator 30 .
- a leaf spring 92 may be disposed between trigger assembly 38 and valve actuator 30 such that fuel can be released prior to spark generation at the nozzle to ensure proper timing of fuel release and spark generation. Such a leaf spring is described in more details in co-pending application No. 08/917,134.
- Trigger assembly 38 preferably includes a trigger stem 90 and an aesthetically pleasing trigger head 91 affixed thereto.
- Trigger stem 90 fits within a channel 92 of frame 12 for sliding movement relative thereto.
- Trigger stem 90 further includes a tab 93 that engages with the frame 12 to keep the trigger assembly 38 from completely sliding out from the frame 12 . In the position shown in FIG. 1, tab 93 acts as a stop against the frame 12 to prevent further movement of trigger assembly 38 away from the valve actuator 30 .
- Other features that limit forward or rearward movements of the trigger assembly 38 can also be used.
- trigger assembly 38 may directly actuate both the valve actuator and the ignitor assembly.
- trigger assembly 38 may directly depress the valve actuator and directly compress the piezoelectric ignitor.
- This type lighting mechanism is also within the scope of this invention. Other aspects of the lighting mechanism are taught in co-pending U.S. patent application Nos. 08/787,399 and 08/917,134 which are incorporated herein in their entirety.
- frame 12 may primarily be formed of a molded rigid polymer or plastic materials such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene terpolymer (ABS), acetyl, nylon, or the likes.
- frame 12 includes fuel supply container holding structure 14 located near first end 16 .
- Frame 12 further includes an insulating cap holding structure 201 located near second end 20 , a latch stem holding structure 203 , a linking rod support structure 205 , an ignitor assembly holding structure 207 , a trigger holding structure 209 and a wand receiving structure 211 .
- These structures are adapted to receive and hold the various similarity named components of the lighting mechanism.
- Fuel supply container holding structure 14 is configured to receive and hold fuel supply container 22 .
- Fuel container 22 should be positioned within fuel supply container holding structure 14 such that valve 28 is at all times in fluid communication with valve connector 26 in order to ensure proper lighter operation.
- Valve 28 may either be connected or aligned with valve connector 26 .
- fuel supply container holding structure 14 has a curved interior so as to receive fuel supply container 22 with curved exterior body.
- fuel supply container holding structure 14 can have any other shape to receive and hold fuel supply containers with other exterior shapes.
- the interior surface preferably is formed by a plurality of bars 252 and connecting members 253 .
- the interior surface can have a solid surface as well.
- each protruding member 221 includes a hook shaped top 213 so as to securely hold fuel supply container 22 .
- Each protruding member 221 are preferably resilient, so that they may deflect when fuel supply container 22 is inserted and snapped back afterward to securely hold fuel container 22 in place.
- the interior surface of fuel supply container holding structure 14 also includes a locating mechanism in the form of a protruding tab 250 .
- Protruding tab 250 is shown positioned on a T-shaped support 251 and extends above the upper surface of the T-shaped support 251 .
- Protruding tab 250 is received in a corresponding recess defined on the fuel supply container 22 .
- fuel supply container 22 preferably includes extensions 252 at the top end thereof which assist in supporting the valve actuator 30 .
- Extensions 252 preferably include a hole or recess 254 which is defined to engage the protruding tab 250 on T-shaped support 251 . This locating mechanism assists in the alignment of valve 28 to valve connector 26 .
- Insulating cap holding structure 201 preferably having a semi-cylindrical body, is configured to receive and hold insulating cap 70 .
- Insulating cap holding structure 201 also includes a recess 253 to allow the nozzle to pass therethrough.
- insulating cap 70 defines a hollow cylindrical center that fits over insulating cap holding structure 201 .
- Latch stem holding structure 203 includes a plurality of protruding members, discussed above. At least one of the protruding members of latch stem holding structure 203 is a protruding member 255 , which preferably has a T-shape. Furthermore, at least one of the recesses formed within latch support member 43 has a corresponding shape, so as to receive the T-shaped protruding member 255 . The T-shaped recess and protruding member 255 in combination with other protruding members and recesses securely affix latch stem 36 on to frame 12 . It should be noted, however, a protruding member can be formed on latch support member 43 and a recess can be formed within latch stem holding structure 203 . Further, any combination of protruding members and corresponding recesses either on the latch stem receiving structure 203 or latch supporting member 43 can be provided.
- Ignitor linking rod support structure 205 is configured to support ignitor linking rod 46 for its sliding movement in forward and rearward directions by suitable support members such as a plurality of support members molded into or protruding from frame 12 . At least one of the support members includes a hook 99 . Hook 99 is designed to flex during the insertion of ignitor linking rod 46 and to snap back to its original position after rod 46 is inserted.
- Ignitor assembly holding structure 207 is configured to firmly hold ignitor assembly 34 .
- Ignitor assembly holding structure 207 includes at least one protruding member 257 formed on frame 12 , which may include a hook 259 formed at its distal end.
- Ignitor assembly holding structure 207 may also include a relief 258 located on each side of protruding member 257 .
- the reliefs 258 are recesses or cut-outs adapted to provide additional flexibility to protruding member 257 .
- Protruding member 257 is also designed to flex and snap back during the insertion of the ignitor 34 .
- Wand receiving structure 211 includes at least one bar 241 extending from ignitor assembly holding structure 207 to insulating cap holding structure 201 .
- Bar 241 is supported by a plurality of support members such as struts 243 .
- a mold can be modified or inserted to manufacture frame 12 such that bar 241 may have either a round shape or polygonal shape.
- Each strut 243 may include a recess near its center to allow conduit 24 and wire 54 to pass therethrough.
- a pair of recesses can be provided on each strut 243 such that one of the recesses holds wire 54 and the other recess holds conduit 24 .
- Trigger holding structure 209 is configured to hold trigger stem 90 and allow its forward and rearward movements.
- Trigger holding structure 209 includes a pair of parallel bars 245 spaced apart from each other to receive trigger stem 90 .
- trigger stem 90 is prevented from separating from trigger holding structure 209 by tab 93 .
- an optional supplemental frame 301 is provided to further secure the lighting mechanism to frame 12 .
- Supplement frame 301 preferably covers at least a portion of fuel supply container 22 and biased pivoting member 80 .
- Supplemental frame 301 also may cover portions of ignitor assembly 34 , ignitor linking rod 46 and trigger stem 90 .
- Supplemental frame 301 is made from similar material as that of frame 12 .
- Supplemental frame 301 comprises a plurality of bars 405 connected to each other.
- supplemental frame 301 can be one solid piece.
- Supplemental frame 301 also includes a plurality of holes 303 .
- the holes 303 in supplemental frame 301 correspond to holes 305 in frame 12 , whereby fasteners, such as threaded screws or rivets, can be used to affix supplemental frame 301 to frame 12 .
- Supplemental frame 301 and frame 12 can also be attached to each other by adhesives or by ultrasonic welding.
- protruding portions can be formed on the fringes of holes 303 in supplemental frame 301 and recess portions can be formed on the fringes of holes 305 in frame 12 , thereby allowing supplemental frame 301 to be snapped on to frame 12 or vice versa.
- frame 12 and supplemental frame 301 can be affixed to each other by adhesives, ultrasonic welding or other similar means.
- supplemental frame 301 is an optional component of the present invention.
- Frame 12 is preferably designed to securely hold the lighting mechanism without supplemental frame 301 .
- an assembled utility lighter platform 401 includes frame 12 , supplemental frame 301 , lighting mechanism which includes components described above, and conductive wand 403 .
- Utility lighter platform 401 is a functional lighter, i.e., it is capable of producing a flame.
- Conductive wand 403 also includes a pair notches 405 stamped thereon. Notches 405 correspond to a pair of knobs 245 formed on bars 241 , as shown in FIG. 2. Knobs 245 and notches 405 cooperatively hold conductive shell 403 over wand receiving structure 211 .
- an outer shell 501 is placed over the utility lighter platform 401 .
- a variety of outer shells 501 can be provided without having to modify any components of platform 401 .
- outer shell 501 can be designed to fit within small hands or large hands, to have a full trigger guard or a partial trigger guard (as shown), to have differently shaped wands, and/or to have soft of hard feel grips.
- Changing market requirements can be met without changing or modifying platform 401 and the lighting mechanism contained therein.
- the outer shell 501 can be timely and cost effectively adapted to follow the changing consumer tastes.
- trigger head 91 and the cover for the latch stem 36 can be freely changed without changing the outer shell design.
- trigger head 91 can be designed to have different shapes, i.e., circular, half-moon, or square, and the cover for the latch stem 36 can be designed to provide soft feel or to carry commercial logos or insignia thereon.
- Outer shell 501 may primarily be formed of a molded rigid polymer or plastic materials such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene terpolymer (ABS), or the likes.
- ABS acrylonitrile butadiene styrene terpolymer
- the outer surface of outer shell can have many shapes and sizes, and can also be covered with aesthetically pleasing material such as leather or soft rubber for their soft feel.
- transparent plastic material can be used to form outer shell 501 .
- Outer shell 501 preferably is comprised of two halves, which are configured to fit over utility lighter platform 401 and securely snap firmly to each other. Additionally, the two halves can be fastened by a plurality of fasteners, i.e., screws and/or rivets, through a plurality of corresponding holes 505 provided thereon. Preferably, at least one set of corresponding holes is provided to securely fasten frame 12 , supplemental frame 301 and outer shell 501 to each other with fasteners. For instance, a hole 507 in outer shell 501 corresponds to a hole 210 in frame 12 which, in turn, corresponds to a hole 409 in supplemental frame 301 . Alternatively, the two halves of outer shell 501 can be affixed to each other by adhesives, ultrasonic welding or the likes.
- Linking rod 46 moves forward and compresses piezoelectric mechanism 34 to generate a voltage between electrical contacts 48 , 50 .
- Electrical current passes from contact 48 into electrically conductive wand 403 and from contact 50 into wire 54 , which is connected to the electrically conductive nozzle.
- a spark is thereby generated between the nozzle and the tab in the wand to ignite the air/gas mixture in the vicinity of the nozzle outlet.
- the resulting ignited fuel passes through hole 66 .
- the trigger may be repeatedly pulled, and the piezoelectric mechanism 34 and valve actuator 30 may be actuated repeatedly to generate a flame in the event that the first actuation does not produce a flame.
- biased pivoting member 80 is biased, e.g., by the return spring in the piezoelectric ignitor, in a counterclockwise position to disengage valve actuator 30 in order to close valve 28 and shut off the supply of fuel to the nozzle. This extinguishes the flame emitted from hole 66 .
- hooked tab 42 re-engages the recess or stop member structure 44 on linking rod 46 thus preventing actuation of the lighter.
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- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Manufacturing & Machinery (AREA)
- Oil, Petroleum & Natural Gas (AREA)
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Abstract
The present invention relates to a utility lighter platform which includes a lighting mechanism configured to selectively ignite fuel supplied from a fuel supply container, and a frame configured to operatively house the lighting mechanism and configured to receive an outer shell thereon. The frame includes a fuel supply container housing structure configured to hold a fuel supply container at a first end of the frame and an insulating cap holding structure configured to receive an insulating cap at a second end of the frame and configured to house a nozzle operatively connected to the fuel supply. The frame also includes an ignitor assembly holding structure configured to house an ignitor assembly, and a trigger holding structure configured to operatively hold a trigger stem with which to activate the ignitor assembly and to release fuel from the fuel supply in order to ignite fuel received at the nozzle.
Description
- This is a continuation-in-part of application No. 08/787,399, filed Jan. 22, 1997 and No. 08/917,134, filed Aug. 25, 1997.
- The present invention generally relates to general purpose utility lighters such as those used to ignite candles, barbecue grills, fireplaces and campfires. More specifically, the present invention relates to utility lighter platforms which are inner operative lighters without outer shells.
- Lighters such as those used for igniting tobacco products, such as cigars, cigarettes, and pipes, have developed over a number of years. Typically, these lighters use either a rotary friction element or a piezoelectric element to generate a spark in proximity to a nozzle emitting fuel from a fuel container. Piezoelectric mechanisms have gained universal acceptance because they are simple for adults to use. One such piezoelectric mechanism is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,262,697 (“the '697 patent”). The disclosure of the '697 patent is incorporated by reference herein.
- Lighters have also evolved from the small, hand-held lighters to several forms of extended lighters. These lighters are also hand held, but are more useful for general purposes such as lighting candles, barbecue grills, fireplaces and campfires. Earlier attempts at such designs relied simply on extended actuating handles to house a typical lighter at the end. Examples of this concept are found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,259,059 and 4,462,791.
- In addition, many utility lighters have had some form of operating mechanism to prevent unintentional operation of the lighter by adults. Often, these mechanisms take the form of on/off switches that may shut off the fuel source or may completely prevent movement of an actuator, such as a trigger assembly, on the lighter. However, the on/off switches that must be positively moved by the user between “on” and “off” positions have drawbacks. For example, an adult user may forget to move the switch back to the “off” position after use and thereby render the on/off switch ineffective.
- Utility lighters also have to appeal to the changing tastes of the consumers. For instance, some consumers may prefer smaller handles. Some consumers may prefer shorter handles. Some consumers may prefer a soft feel grip or a leather grip. Some may like a full trigger guard over a partial trigger guard. Some consumers may prefer a utility lighter with smooth curves and seamless lines, while other may want pronounced lines and sharp curves. Often, the lighter manufacturer may need to redesign the entire utility lighter including the outer shell, as well as the internal mechanisms, in order to satisfy market demands.
- Thus, there remains a need for a utility lighter design that can quickly and inexpensively adapt to market demand, while minimizing the need for redesigning.
- These objects and advantages as well as other objects and advantages are accomplished in a utility lighter platform which comprises a lighting mechanism configured to selectively ignite fuel supplied from a fuel supply container, and a frame configured to operatively house the lighting mechanism and configured to receive an ergonomically designed outer shell thereon.
- The lighting mechanism may include an ignitor assembly configured to generate a voltage between its first and second ends, a valve actuator associated with the fuel supply for selectively releasing fuel therefrom, an actuating assembly associated with the valve actuator to dispense fuel from the fuel supply and with the ignitor assembly to generate the voltage, and a latch stem associated with the actuating assembly and configured to selectively prevent operative movement the actuating assembly.
- The latch stem further comprises a hooked tab connected for biased movement relative to the actuating assembly and normally biased into engagement with the actuating assembly to prevent the operative movement thereof, wherein the user may selectively bias the hooked tab out of engagement with the actuating assembly to permit operation of the actuating assembly. The latch stem is adapted to receive an aethestically pleasing cover.
- The actuating assembly comprises a trigger stem extending from the frame and movable to activate the valve actuator and the ignitor assembly. The trigger stem is adapted to receive an aethestically pleasing trigger head.
- In another aspect of the lighting mechanism, the actuating assembly further comprises a biased pivoting member operatively associated with the trigger and the ignitor assembly for activating at least the ignitor assembly when the trigger is moved toward the valve actuator.
- The frame is further configured to operatively house the ignitor assembly, the valve actuator, the actuating assembly and the latch stem. The frame is further configured to operatively house the hooked tab, the trigger, and the biased pivoting member.
- The utility lighter platform may be further provided with a supplemental frame configured to securely house the lighting mechanism when affixed to the frame.
- More specifically, the frame comprises a fuel supply container housing structure configured to hold a fuel supply container at a first end of the frame, an insulating cap holding structure configured to receive an insulating cap at a second end of the frame and configured to house a nozzle operatively connected to the fuel supply, an ignitor assembly holding structure configured to house an ignitor assembly, and a trigger holding structure configured to operatively hold a trigger stem with which to activate the ignitor assembly and to release fuel from the fuel supply in order to ignite fuel received at the nozzle. The fuel supply container housing structure comprises a plurality of protruding members configured to securely hold the fuel supply container.
- In addition, the insulating cap holding structure comprises a semi-cylindrically shaped body defining a hollow center therein to receive the nozzle. The ignitor assembly holding structure comprises a plurality of recesses and protruding portions for securely housing the ignitor assembly. The trigger holding structure comprises a pair of bars spaced apart from each other to operatively receive the trigger stem.
- The frame can further include a wand receiving structure formed between the insulating cap holding structure and the ignitor assembly holding structure, wherein the wand receiving structure comprises a plurality of struts with recesses formed thereon to receive a conduit which connects the nozzle to the fuel supply.
- Furthermore, the frame can include a latch receiving structure configured to receive a latch stem, which is adopted to prevent operative movement of the trigger stem on the frame. The latch stem receiving structure comprises at least one protruding member adapted to securely hold the latch stem.
- Preferred features of the present invention are disclosed in the accompanying drawings, wherein similar reference characters denote similar elements throughout the several views, and wherein:
- FIG. 1 is a side view of a lighting mechanism housed in a frame in accordance to the present invention;
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the frame;
- FIG. 3 is a side view of a supplemental frame;
- FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a functional utility lighter platform; and
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the utility lighter platform with an outer shell placed thereon.
- Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a utility
lighter platform 10 includes a lighting mechanism configured to selectively ignite fuel released from afuel supply container 22.Platform 10 includes aframe 12, which is adapted to operatively house anignitor assembly 34 andfuel supply container 22.Frame 12 is also configured to receive an aesthetically pleasing outer shell thereon. An example of an outer shell is illustrated in FIG. 5. -
Frame 12 includes a fuelsupply holding structure 14 located near afirst end 16 to receivefuel supply container 22. A nozzle is disposed near asecond end 20 offrame 12 for emitting fuel to feed a flame as will be described herein. It will be noted that the terms,first end 16 andsecond end 20, are used to describe the present invention, and form no part of the invention. - The
fuel supply container 22, which may be a butane fuel cell, is connected to one end of aconduit 24, such as a plastic tube, by a fluid connector 26. Fluid connector 26 is connected to avalve 28 onfuel supply container 22. The opposite end ofconduit 24 terminates at the nozzle proximatesecond end 20. -
Valve 28 is operated by a valve actuator 30, which is pivotally attached tofuel supply container 22. When valve actuator 30 is depressed as shown in FIG. 1, e.g., moved toward thefirst end 16, fuel is selectively released throughvalve 28, and flows through connector 26 andtube 24, and toward the nozzle. An exemplaryfuel supply container 22 is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,520,197 (“the '197 patent”). The disclosure of the '197 patent is incorporated herein by reference. - An actuating assembly is also provided to facilitate the depression of valve actuator30 and to compress
ignitor assembly 34 for generating a spark near the nozzle. The actuating assembly preferably comprises atrigger assembly 38, a biased pivoting member 80, and a linkingrod 46 connecting pivoting member 80 toignitor assembly 34. These components are described in detail below. Although not necessary for all aspects of this invention, an electric ignitor assembly such as a piezoelectric mechanism is the preferred ignitor for this invention. More specifically, the preferred piezoelectric mechanism is generally of the type disclosed in the '697 patent, the disclosure of which has been incorporated herein by reference. - A latch stem36 normally locks the actuating assembly in an inoperative position such that
trigger assembly 38 may not be sufficiently depressed or pulled by a user to actuate lighter 10. In a preferred embodiment, latch stem 36 generally includes an unsupported resilientfront end 40 having a hookedtab 42.Hooked tab 42 is normally in engagement with a stop member structure disposed on linkingrod 46. When hookedtab 42 is engaged against the stop member structure, which may be a recess formed in linking rod, linkingrod 46 may not be moved in a direction towardsecond end 20 to significantly compress and actuateignitor assembly 34. Furthermore, in the inoperative position latch stem 36 preferably prevents sufficient movement oftrigger assembly 38 towardend 16 so as to prevent successful actuation of utility lighter 10.Latch stem 36 is securely affixed to frame 12 by a latch support member 43 at aback end 41. Thus, latch stem 36 is fixedly attached to frame 12 atback end 41, and is free to flex atfront end 40. A plurality of protruding members are provided onframe 12 to engage with corresponding recesses 45 formed in latch support member 43, thereby securely affixinglatch stem 36 to frame 12.Latch stem 36, which can be in the form of ashank 411 as shown in FIG. 4, is adapted to receive an aesthetically pleasing cover thereon. -
Piezoelectric mechanism 34 has been particularly described in the '697 patent. The details necessary to an understanding of this invention have been shown in the drawings of the '697 patent. In summary, however,piezoelectric mechanism 34 is a telescopic assembly, which may be compressed to generate a voltage between first and secondelectrical contacts 48, 50. - Specifically,
piezoelectric mechanism 34 contains a piezoelectric crystal in electrical contact with and generally situated betweenelectrical contacts 48, 50. Electrical contact 48 is generally referred to as an anvil andelectrical contact 50 contacts an impact pad positioned on an opposite side of the piezoelectric crystal. First electrical contact or anvil 48 is in electrical contact with an electrically conductive wand 403 (as shown in FIG. 4).Conductive wand 403 is preferably made out of metal, which may be positioned over a portion offrame 12. - Second
electrical contact 50 is connected to aninsulated wire 54 having two exposedportions Exposed portion 56 is connected to contact 50, while exposedportion 58 is connected to the nozzle. The nozzle, which may include a diffuser spring affixed thereto, therefore acts as an electrode and is preferably formed of an electrically conductive metal such as stainless steel brass or zinc for this purpose. A diffuser spring can be an electrically conductive coil spring, where the space between the adjacent coils of the spring is designed to allow air to mix with the released fuel to ensure a proper air/fuel mixture suitable for combustion. - Proximate
second end 20, a tab or antenna is stamped fromwand 403 to create a spark gap with the nozzle or the diffuser spring. Anopening 66 at the end ofconductive wand 403 allows the passage of ignited fuel from the lighter. Also, in a conventional manner, side apertures may be provided onconductive wand 403 to allow the intake of air. - In accordance with another aspect of this invention, an electrically insulating
cap 70 is disposed around at least a portion of the nozzle and is generally located between the nozzle andconductive wand 403. Insulatingcap 70 deters sparks from being generated between the nozzle and surfaces ofconductive wand 403 other than at the tab. - In another embodiment,
fuel conduit 24 may be co-extruded with a conductive material along with a plastic material. For example, the plastic material may be extruded to formconduit 24 to conduct fuel gas fromfuel supply container 22 to the nozzle, and a conductive material may be extruded to form the inside or the outside ofconduit 24. The conductive material preferably have exposedportions piezoelectric element 34 and to the nozzle in lieu ofwire 54, respectively. Alternatively,conduit 24 may be made out of a conductive material without the inner plastic material. Additionally, it may be desirable to coat, by co-extruding, an insulating layer outside of the conductive exterior to prevent electrical arcing from the conductive exterior towand 403. - Biased pivoting member80 of the actuating assembly is operatively connected
trigger assembly 38 and linkingrod 46. Specifically, pivoting member 80 is mounted to a pin 82 in a biased manner, e.g., by a torsion spring (not shown) placed between member 80 and pin 82 such that member 80 is biased in a counterclockwise direction as viewed in FIG. 1. Alternatively, pivoting member 80 may be biased by a return spring disposed within the two telescopic members ofpiezoelectric mechanism 34 to maintain separation between the telescopic members. The return spring exerts a biasing force onrod 46 which is in physical contact with pivoting member 80. Such a return spring is disclosed in the '697 patent. - Biased pivoting member80 further includes a pair of arms 84, 86 generally extending from pin 82. Arm 84 may include a
knob 88 adapted to depress valve actuator 30 when the user pullstrigger assembly 38. Alternatively, a portion oftrigger assembly 38 itself may be used to directly engage valve actuator 30. Additionally, a leaf spring 92 may be disposed betweentrigger assembly 38 and valve actuator 30 such that fuel can be released prior to spark generation at the nozzle to ensure proper timing of fuel release and spark generation. Such a leaf spring is described in more details in co-pending application No. 08/917,134. -
Trigger assembly 38 preferably includes atrigger stem 90 and an aestheticallypleasing trigger head 91 affixed thereto.Trigger stem 90 fits within a channel 92 offrame 12 for sliding movement relative thereto.Trigger stem 90 further includes a tab 93 that engages with theframe 12 to keep thetrigger assembly 38 from completely sliding out from theframe 12. In the position shown in FIG. 1, tab 93 acts as a stop against theframe 12 to prevent further movement oftrigger assembly 38 away from the valve actuator 30. Other features that limit forward or rearward movements of thetrigger assembly 38 can also be used. - Alternatively,
trigger assembly 38 may directly actuate both the valve actuator and the ignitor assembly. In other words, triggerassembly 38 may directly depress the valve actuator and directly compress the piezoelectric ignitor. This type lighting mechanism is also within the scope of this invention. Other aspects of the lighting mechanism are taught in co-pending U.S. patent application Nos. 08/787,399 and 08/917,134 which are incorporated herein in their entirety. - Referring to FIG. 2,
frame 12 may primarily be formed of a molded rigid polymer or plastic materials such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene terpolymer (ABS), acetyl, nylon, or the likes. As mentioned above,frame 12 includes fuel supplycontainer holding structure 14 located nearfirst end 16.Frame 12 further includes an insulatingcap holding structure 201 located nearsecond end 20, a latchstem holding structure 203, a linkingrod support structure 205, an ignitorassembly holding structure 207, atrigger holding structure 209 and awand receiving structure 211. These structures are adapted to receive and hold the various similarity named components of the lighting mechanism. - Fuel supply
container holding structure 14 is configured to receive and holdfuel supply container 22.Fuel container 22 should be positioned within fuel supplycontainer holding structure 14 such thatvalve 28 is at all times in fluid communication with valve connector 26 in order to ensure proper lighter operation.Valve 28 may either be connected or aligned with valve connector 26. - Preferably fuel supply
container holding structure 14 has a curved interior so as to receivefuel supply container 22 with curved exterior body. Alternatively, fuel supplycontainer holding structure 14 can have any other shape to receive and hold fuel supply containers with other exterior shapes. The interior surface preferably is formed by a plurality ofbars 252 and connectingmembers 253. The interior surface can have a solid surface as well. - Along the length of fuel supply
container holding structure 14, a plurality of protrudingmembers 221 is provided. Each protrudingmember 221 includes a hook shaped top 213 so as to securely holdfuel supply container 22. Each protrudingmember 221 are preferably resilient, so that they may deflect whenfuel supply container 22 is inserted and snapped back afterward to securely holdfuel container 22 in place. - The interior surface of fuel supply
container holding structure 14 also includes a locating mechanism in the form of a protrudingtab 250.Protruding tab 250 is shown positioned on a T-shapedsupport 251 and extends above the upper surface of the T-shapedsupport 251.Protruding tab 250 is received in a corresponding recess defined on thefuel supply container 22. As shown in FIG. 1,fuel supply container 22 preferably includesextensions 252 at the top end thereof which assist in supporting the valve actuator 30.Extensions 252 preferably include a hole orrecess 254 which is defined to engage the protrudingtab 250 on T-shapedsupport 251. This locating mechanism assists in the alignment ofvalve 28 to valve connector 26. - Insulating
cap holding structure 201, preferably having a semi-cylindrical body, is configured to receive and hold insulatingcap 70. Insulatingcap holding structure 201 also includes arecess 253 to allow the nozzle to pass therethrough. Preferably, insulatingcap 70 defines a hollow cylindrical center that fits over insulatingcap holding structure 201. - Latch
stem holding structure 203 includes a plurality of protruding members, discussed above. At least one of the protruding members of latchstem holding structure 203 is a protrudingmember 255, which preferably has a T-shape. Furthermore, at least one of the recesses formed within latch support member 43 has a corresponding shape, so as to receive the T-shaped protrudingmember 255. The T-shaped recess and protrudingmember 255 in combination with other protruding members and recesses securely affix latch stem 36 on toframe 12. It should be noted, however, a protruding member can be formed on latch support member 43 and a recess can be formed within latchstem holding structure 203. Further, any combination of protruding members and corresponding recesses either on the latchstem receiving structure 203 or latch supporting member 43 can be provided. - Ignitor linking
rod support structure 205 is configured to supportignitor linking rod 46 for its sliding movement in forward and rearward directions by suitable support members such as a plurality of support members molded into or protruding fromframe 12. At least one of the support members includes ahook 99.Hook 99 is designed to flex during the insertion ofignitor linking rod 46 and to snap back to its original position afterrod 46 is inserted. - Ignitor
assembly holding structure 207 is configured to firmly holdignitor assembly 34. Ignitorassembly holding structure 207 includes at least one protrudingmember 257 formed onframe 12, which may include a hook 259 formed at its distal end. Ignitorassembly holding structure 207 may also include arelief 258 located on each side of protrudingmember 257. Thereliefs 258 are recesses or cut-outs adapted to provide additional flexibility to protrudingmember 257. Protrudingmember 257 is also designed to flex and snap back during the insertion of theignitor 34. -
Wand receiving structure 211 includes at least onebar 241 extending from ignitorassembly holding structure 207 to insulatingcap holding structure 201.Bar 241 is supported by a plurality of support members such asstruts 243. A mold can be modified or inserted to manufactureframe 12 such thatbar 241 may have either a round shape or polygonal shape. Eachstrut 243 may include a recess near its center to allowconduit 24 andwire 54 to pass therethrough. Alternatively, a pair of recesses can be provided on eachstrut 243 such that one of the recesses holdswire 54 and the other recess holdsconduit 24. -
Trigger holding structure 209 is configured to holdtrigger stem 90 and allow its forward and rearward movements.Trigger holding structure 209 includes a pair ofparallel bars 245 spaced apart from each other to receivetrigger stem 90. As mentioned above, trigger stem 90 is prevented from separating fromtrigger holding structure 209 by tab 93. - Referring to FIG. 3, an optional
supplemental frame 301 is provided to further secure the lighting mechanism to frame 12.Supplement frame 301 preferably covers at least a portion offuel supply container 22 and biased pivoting member 80.Supplemental frame 301 also may cover portions ofignitor assembly 34,ignitor linking rod 46 and trigger stem 90. -
Supplemental frame 301 is made from similar material as that offrame 12.Supplemental frame 301 comprises a plurality ofbars 405 connected to each other. Alternatively,supplemental frame 301 can be one solid piece.Supplemental frame 301 also includes a plurality ofholes 303. Theholes 303 insupplemental frame 301 correspond toholes 305 inframe 12, whereby fasteners, such as threaded screws or rivets, can be used to affixsupplemental frame 301 to frame 12.Supplemental frame 301 andframe 12 can also be attached to each other by adhesives or by ultrasonic welding. Alternatively, protruding portions can be formed on the fringes ofholes 303 insupplemental frame 301 and recess portions can be formed on the fringes ofholes 305 inframe 12, thereby allowingsupplemental frame 301 to be snapped on to frame 12 or vice versa. In yet another embodiment,frame 12 andsupplemental frame 301 can be affixed to each other by adhesives, ultrasonic welding or other similar means. - It should be noted that
supplemental frame 301 is an optional component of the present invention.Frame 12 is preferably designed to securely hold the lighting mechanism withoutsupplemental frame 301. - Referring to FIG. 4, an assembled utility
lighter platform 401 includesframe 12,supplemental frame 301, lighting mechanism which includes components described above, andconductive wand 403. Utilitylighter platform 401 is a functional lighter, i.e., it is capable of producing a flame.Conductive wand 403 also includes apair notches 405 stamped thereon.Notches 405 correspond to a pair ofknobs 245 formed onbars 241, as shown in FIG. 2.Knobs 245 andnotches 405 cooperatively holdconductive shell 403 overwand receiving structure 211. - Referring to FIG. 5, an
outer shell 501 is placed over the utilitylighter platform 401. By providing the utilitylighter platform 401, a variety ofouter shells 501 can be provided without having to modify any components ofplatform 401. For instance,outer shell 501 can be designed to fit within small hands or large hands, to have a full trigger guard or a partial trigger guard (as shown), to have differently shaped wands, and/or to have soft of hard feel grips. Changing market requirements can be met without changing or modifyingplatform 401 and the lighting mechanism contained therein. In addition, as consumers' tastes change theouter shell 501 can be timely and cost effectively adapted to follow the changing consumer tastes. - It should also be noted that
trigger head 91 and the cover for the latch stem 36 can be freely changed without changing the outer shell design. For examples,trigger head 91 can be designed to have different shapes, i.e., circular, half-moon, or square, and the cover for the latch stem 36 can be designed to provide soft feel or to carry commercial logos or insignia thereon. -
Outer shell 501 may primarily be formed of a molded rigid polymer or plastic materials such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene terpolymer (ABS), or the likes. The outer surface of outer shell can have many shapes and sizes, and can also be covered with aesthetically pleasing material such as leather or soft rubber for their soft feel. Alternatively, transparent plastic material can be used to formouter shell 501. -
Outer shell 501 preferably is comprised of two halves, which are configured to fit over utilitylighter platform 401 and securely snap firmly to each other. Additionally, the two halves can be fastened by a plurality of fasteners, i.e., screws and/or rivets, through a plurality of correspondingholes 505 provided thereon. Preferably, at least one set of corresponding holes is provided to securely fastenframe 12,supplemental frame 301 andouter shell 501 to each other with fasteners. For instance, ahole 507 inouter shell 501 corresponds to ahole 210 inframe 12 which, in turn, corresponds to ahole 409 insupplemental frame 301. Alternatively, the two halves ofouter shell 501 can be affixed to each other by adhesives, ultrasonic welding or the likes. - The operation of utility lighter503 will now be described generally with reference to FIGS. 1, 4 and 5. With one hand, a user grasps handle 501 with the index finger on
trigger 38 and the thumb onfront end 40 oflatch stem 36. Depressing and holding thefront end 40 of latch stem 36 downwardly disengage hookedtab 42 from linkingrod 46 thereby allowing full movement oftrigger 38. Thereafter, the user can pulltrigger 38. This action depresses valve actuator 30 through biased pivoting member 80, thereby releasing fuel fromfuel supply container 22 throughvalve 28, valve connector 26,conduit 24 and the nozzle. At or about the same time, the actuation oftrigger 38 rotates arm 86 of pivot 80 in a clockwise direction against linkingrod 46. Linkingrod 46 moves forward and compressespiezoelectric mechanism 34 to generate a voltage betweenelectrical contacts 48, 50. Electrical current passes from contact 48 into electricallyconductive wand 403 and fromcontact 50 intowire 54, which is connected to the electrically conductive nozzle. A spark is thereby generated between the nozzle and the tab in the wand to ignite the air/gas mixture in the vicinity of the nozzle outlet. The resulting ignited fuel passes throughhole 66. As long as the user continues to depressfront end 40 oflatch stem 36, the trigger may be repeatedly pulled, and thepiezoelectric mechanism 34 and valve actuator 30 may be actuated repeatedly to generate a flame in the event that the first actuation does not produce a flame. - When the user releases trigger38, biased pivoting member 80 is biased, e.g., by the return spring in the piezoelectric ignitor, in a counterclockwise position to disengage valve actuator 30 in order to close
valve 28 and shut off the supply of fuel to the nozzle. This extinguishes the flame emitted fromhole 66. When the user releases latchstem 36 and the trigger is returned, hookedtab 42 re-engages the recess or stop member structure 44 on linkingrod 46 thus preventing actuation of the lighter. Therefore, asfront end 40 of latch stem 36 is normally biased in this upward position such that hookedtab 42 re-engages linkmember 46, a user cannot inadvertently leave lighter 503 in a state wheretrigger 38 may simply be pulled to activate the lighter. Also, the relative difficulty of operating both the latch stem and the trigger essentially at the same time further increases the skills required to operate the lighter. Although the operation of utility lighter 503 is described with respect to the lighting mechanism illustrated in FIGS. 1, 4 and 5, the utility lighter platform of the present invention may be used with other types of lighting mechanism that are different than the lighting mechanism described herein. Examples of other lighting mechanisms included those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,697,775, 5,326,256, 3,947,731, 4,292,021, 4,778,380, 5,154,601 and 5,738,507. Thus, the present invention is not to be limited to the lighting mechanism described herein. - While various descriptions of the present invention are described above, it should be understood that the various features can be used singly or in any combination thereof. Therefore, this invention is not to be limited to only the specifically preferred embodiments depicted herein.
- Further, it should be understood that variations and modifications within the spirit and scope of the invention may occur to those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains. Accordingly, all expedient modifications readily attainable by one versed in the art from the disclosure set forth herein that are within the scope and spirit of the present invention are to be included as further embodiments of the present invention. The scope of the present invention is accordingly defined as set forth in the appended claims.
Claims (37)
1. A utility lighter platform comprising:
a fuel supply container holding fuel therein;
a valve actuator associated with the fuel supply container for selectively releasing fuel therefrom;
an ignitor assembly configured to generate a spark to ignite the released fuel; and
a frame configured to operatively house the fuel supply container, the valve actuator, and the ignitor assembly and further configured to receive one of a first outer shell having a first shape to cover a portion of the frame and a second outer shell having a second shape to cover the portion of the frame, wherein the first shape differs from the second shape.
2. The utility lighter platform of further comprises a trigger assembly configured to activate the valve actuator and the ignitor assembly.
claim 1
3. The utility lighter platform of wherein the frame is further configured to house a portion of the trigger.
claim 2
4. The utility lighter platform of further comprising a biased pivoting member operatively associated with the trigger assembly and the ignitor assembly for activating at least the ignitor assembly when the trigger is moved toward the valve actuator.
claim 2
5. The utility lighter platform of wherein the frame is further configured to operatively house the biased pivoting member.
claim 4
6. The utility lighter platform according to further comprising a latch stem receiving structure configured to receive a latch stem which prevents operative movement of the trigger.
claim 2
7. The utility lighter platform according to wherein the latch stem receiving structure comprises at least one corresponding shaped protruding member in order to securely hold the latch stem.
claim 6
8. The utility lighter platform according to wherein the latch stem comprises at least one corresponding shaped protruding member in order to securely hold the latch stem receiving structure.
claim 6
9. The utility lighter platform according to wherein the latch stem includes a shank portion adapted to receive a cover.
claim 6
10. The utility lighter platform of wherein at least a portion of the frame has a lattice structure.
claim 1
11. The utility lighter platform of wherein the frame comprises at least one member.
claim 1
12. A utility lighter frame comprising:
a fuel supply container housing structure configured to hold a fuel supply container;
an ignitor assembly holding structure configured to house an ignitor assembly; and
a trigger holding structure configured to hold a trigger stem with which to activate the ignitor assembly and to release fuel from the fuel supply, wherein the frame has a lattice structure and is further configured to receive an outer shell to cover a portion of the frame.
13. The utility lighter frame of wherein the fuel supply container housing structure comprises a plurality of resilient protruding members, each protruding member deflecting outward when the fuel supply container is inserted and flexing inward to securely hold the fuel supply container.
claim 12
14. The utility lighter frame according to further comprising a latch stem receiving structure configured to receive a latch stem which prevents operative movement of the trigger.
claim 12
15. The utility lighter frame according to wherein the latch stem receiving structure comprises at least one corresponding shaped protruding member in order to securely hold the latch stem.
claim 14
16. The utility lighter frame according to wherein the latch stem comprises at least one corresponding shaped protruding member in order to securely hold the latch stem receiving structure.
claim 14
17. The utility lighter frame according to wherein the latch stem includes a shank portion adapted to receive a cover.
claim 14
18. The utility lighter frame according to wherein the ignitor assembly holding structure comprises at least one recess and one protruding portion for securely housing the ignitor assembly.
claim 12
19. The utility lighter frame according to wherein the trigger holding structure comprises a pair of bars spaced apart from each other to operatively receive the trigger.
claim 12
20. The utility lighter frame according to further comprising an insulating cap holding structure configured to receive an insulating cap and configured to house a nozzle operatively connected to the fuel supply.
claim 12
21. The utility lighter frame according to wherein the insulating cap holding structure comprises a semi-cylindrically shaped body defining a hollow center therein to receive the nozzle.
claim 20
22. The utility lighter frame according to further including a wand receiving structure configured to receive an electrically conductive wand.
claim 20
23. The utility lighter frame according to wherein the wand receiving structure is formed between the insulating cap holding structure and the ignitor assembly holding structure, wherein the wand receiving structure comprises a plurality of struts with recesses formed thereon to receive a conduit which connects the nozzle to the fuel supply.
claim 22
24. The utility lighter frame according to wherein the insulating cap holding structure is further configured to provide a spark gap between the wand and the nozzle.
claim 23
25. A utility lighter platform comprising:
a fuel supply container holding fuel therein;
a valve actuator associated with the fuel supply container for selectively releasing fuel therefrom;
an ignitor assembly configured to generate a spark to ignite the released fuel; and
a frame configured to operatively house a portion of the fuel supply container, the valve actuator, and the ignitor assembly as a functional unit with structural integrity, the frame further configured to receive an outer shell to cover a portion of the frame with the outer shell substantially covering the fuel supply container, the valve actuator, and the ignitor assembly.
26. The utility lighter platform of wherein the outer shell includes an ergonomically designed handle.
claim 25
27. The utility lighter platform of further comprising a supplemental frame configured to house at least the fuel supply container when affixed to the frame.
claim 25
28. The utility lighter platform of further comprising an actuating assembly associated with the valve actuator to dispense the fuel from the fuel supply container and with the ignitor assembly to generate the spark.
claim 25
29. The utility lighter platform of wherein the frame is further configured to operatively house the actuating assembly.
claim 28
30. The utility lighter platform of further comprising a latch stem associated with the actuating assembly and configured to selectively prevent operative movement the actuating assembly, wherein the latch stem further comprises a hooked tab connected for biased movement relative to the actuating assembly and normally biased into engagement with the actuating assembly to prevent the operative movement thereof, wherein the user may selectively bias the hooked tab out of engagement with the actuating assembly to permit operation of the actuating assembly.
claim 28
31. The utility lighter platform of wherein the frame is further configured to operatively house the latch stem.
claim 30
32. The utility lighter platform of further includes a trigger assembly configured to activate the valve actuator and the ignitor assembly.
claim 25
33. The utility lighter platform of wherein the frame is further configured to house the trigger.
claim 32
34. The utility lighter platform of further comprising a biased pivoting member operatively associated with the trigger assembly and the ignitor assembly for activating at least the ignitor assembly when the trigger is moved toward the valve actuator.
claim 32
35. The utility lighter platform of wherein the frame is further configured to operatively house the biased pivoting member.
claim 34
36. The utility lighter platform of wherein at least a portion of the frame has a lattice structure.
claim 25
37. The utility lighter platform of wherein the frame comprises at least one member.
claim 25
Priority Applications (1)
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US09/767,153 US6406291B2 (en) | 1997-01-22 | 2001-01-23 | Utility lighter platform |
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US08/787,399 US5934895A (en) | 1997-01-22 | 1997-01-22 | Utility lighter |
US08/917,134 US6086360A (en) | 1997-01-22 | 1997-08-25 | Utility lighter |
US09/239,807 US6186777B1 (en) | 1997-01-22 | 1999-01-29 | Utility lighter platform |
US09/767,153 US6406291B2 (en) | 1997-01-22 | 2001-01-23 | Utility lighter platform |
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US09/239,807 Continuation US6186777B1 (en) | 1997-01-22 | 1999-01-29 | Utility lighter platform |
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US6406291B2 US6406291B2 (en) | 2002-06-18 |
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US09/767,153 Expired - Lifetime US6406291B2 (en) | 1997-01-22 | 2001-01-23 | Utility lighter platform |
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Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US6527546B1 (en) | 1997-01-22 | 2003-03-04 | Bic Corporation | Utility lighter |
US6332771B1 (en) | 1997-01-22 | 2001-12-25 | Bic Corporation | Utility lighter |
US6065958A (en) * | 1997-01-22 | 2000-05-23 | Bic Corporation | Utility lighter |
US6971870B2 (en) * | 2000-11-03 | 2005-12-06 | Bic Corporation | Multi-mode lighter |
JP2004537703A (en) | 2001-07-27 | 2004-12-16 | ズィッポー マニュファクチャリング カンパニ | Practical lighter |
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1998
- 1998-01-21 DE DE69836731T patent/DE69836731T2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1998-01-21 JP JP53470798A patent/JP2001509876A/en active Pending
- 1998-01-21 PL PL337119A patent/PL191270B1/en unknown
- 1998-01-21 CA CA002278530A patent/CA2278530C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1998-01-21 WO PCT/US1998/001209 patent/WO1998031774A2/en active IP Right Grant
- 1998-01-21 RU RU99118577/06A patent/RU2213909C2/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1998-01-21 BR BR9815181-9A patent/BR9815181A/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1998-01-21 AT AT98903640T patent/ATE349654T1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1998-01-21 CZ CZ19992605A patent/CZ294576B6/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1998-01-21 AU AU60357/98A patent/AU741274B2/en not_active Ceased
- 1998-01-21 CN CNB988035367A patent/CN1174186C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1998-01-21 EP EP98903640A patent/EP0975918B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1998-01-21 CZ CZ2004610A patent/CZ295385B6/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1998-01-21 ES ES98903640T patent/ES2277380T3/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1998-01-22 TW TW087100856A patent/TWI247089B/en not_active IP Right Cessation
-
1999
- 1999-01-29 US US09/239,807 patent/US6186777B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
2000
- 2000-09-18 HK HK00105859A patent/HK1026734A1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
-
2001
- 2001-01-23 US US09/767,153 patent/US6406291B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
DE69836731T2 (en) | 2007-10-11 |
EP0975918A2 (en) | 2000-02-02 |
CA2278530A1 (en) | 1998-07-23 |
JP2001509876A (en) | 2001-07-24 |
CZ295385B6 (en) | 2005-07-13 |
ATE349654T1 (en) | 2007-01-15 |
EP0975918A4 (en) | 2004-10-27 |
US6406291B2 (en) | 2002-06-18 |
TWI247089B (en) | 2006-01-11 |
CZ260599A3 (en) | 2000-04-12 |
DE69836731D1 (en) | 2007-02-08 |
WO1998031774A3 (en) | 1998-10-22 |
RU2213909C2 (en) | 2003-10-10 |
CA2278530C (en) | 2007-05-08 |
CZ294576B6 (en) | 2005-02-16 |
PL337119A1 (en) | 2000-07-31 |
PL191270B1 (en) | 2006-04-28 |
WO1998031774A2 (en) | 1998-07-23 |
EP0975918B1 (en) | 2006-12-27 |
CN1174186C (en) | 2004-11-03 |
AU6035798A (en) | 1998-08-07 |
HK1026734A1 (en) | 2000-12-22 |
BR9815181A (en) | 2000-10-10 |
CN1251161A (en) | 2000-04-19 |
US6186777B1 (en) | 2001-02-13 |
ES2277380T3 (en) | 2007-07-01 |
AU741274B2 (en) | 2001-11-29 |
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