WO1995024134A2

WO1995024134A2 - Smokeless ashtray system

Info

Publication number: WO1995024134A2
Application number: PCT/US1995/003109
Authority: WO
Inventors: Terry Adams; Neil J. Ambrosio; William F. Bratton; William M. Forsythe; Bruce E. Hattton; Larry L. Kinder; William A. Swat
Original assignee: Progressive Games, Inc.
Priority date: 1994-03-09
Filing date: 1995-03-09
Publication date: 1995-09-14
Also published as: AU2118895A; WO1995024134A3

Abstract

A system (10) for removing smoke from ashtrays (12) includes a vacuum manifold (110, 150, 200, 350, 360) connecting ashtrays (12) to a charcoal filter and vacuum blower/motor assembly (400). The vacuum manifold includes flexible tubing segments (350, 360) secured to connectors (110, 150). Each ashtray (12) location includes a flue member (250) having a first end connected to an associated first stage filter element (300) and a second end inserted within a recess (34) formed centrally in a bottom surface (17) of a cup-shaped ashtray (12) and through an upstanding chimney (18) in the ashtray (12). The flue member (250) includes an upper end extending through an open upper end (23) of the central chimney (18) and provided with a circumferentially extending inlet slot (251) for the induction of smoke. A shield portion (20) of an ashtray cover assembly (50) overlies the upper ends of the flue (250) and chimney (18) to prevent ashes and other debris from entering the air flow path. A replaceable disposable first stage filter element (300) connected to the flue member (250) filters smoke prior to passage into the manifold, thus reducing tar fouling of the system. Each ashtray (12) includes a screen (51) and cover assembly (50) including a slide plate (58) for closing the ashtray (12) when not in use. A control box (500) includes an on/off switch, a power on LED, and may optionally include a service needed LED activated by monitoring load on the motor (420) to indicate filter clogging.

Description

SMOKELESS ASHTRAY SYSTEM Technical Field The present invention relates to ashtrays, and more particularly pertains to an improved system for removing smoke from ashtrays including a vacuum and filtration system for removing smoke from indoor room environments frequented by cigar and cigarette smokers such as restaurants, casinos, lounges, and bars.

Background Art A variety of vacuum and filtration systems have been proposed by the prior art in attempts to address the problems and potential health affects associated with smoking and resulting residues. Such systems have suffered from several disadvantages including difficult, tedious, and frequent maintenance, high initial cost and high maintenance costs, difficulty in installation, and incompatibility with existing structures. In casino applications, the prior art includes the provision of simple stainless steel cup- shaped ashtrays removeably inserted into holes provided in card gaming tables, in conjunction with screen assemblies removeably disposed in the ashtrays.

Many individuals find smoke-filled environments distasteful, and many governmental authorities have already taken steps to ban or order the creation of non-smoking sections in public and private establishments.

Disclosure of Invention A system for removing smoke from ashtrays includes a vacuum manifold assembly for connecting a plurality of ashtrays to a common charcoal filter and vacuum blower/motor assembly. The vacuum manifold includes a plurality of flexible tubing segments secured to connectors. Each ashtray location includes a flue member having a first end disposed through an associated first stage filter element and a second end inserted within a recess formed centrally in a bottom surface of a cup-shaped ashtray and in fluid communication with an upstanding chimney in the ashtray. The flue member includes an upper end extending through an open upper end of the central chimney and provided with a circumferentially extending inlet slot for the induction of smoke. A shield portion of an ashtray cover assembly overlies the upper ends of the flue and chimney to prevent ashes and other debris from entering the air flow path. A replaceable disposable first stage filter element in fluid communication with the flue member filters smoke prior to passage into the manifold, thus substantially reducing tar fouling of the system. Each ashtray includes a screen and cover assembly including a slide plate for closing the ashtray when not in use. A control box includes an on/off switch, a power on LED, and may optionally also include a service needed LED activated by monitoring load on the motor to indicate filter clogging.

There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, the more important features of the invention in order that the detailed description thereof that follows may be better understood, and in order that the present contribution to the art may be better appreciated. There are, of course, additional features of the invention that will be described hereinafter and which will form the subject matter of the claims appended hereto. In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and to the arrangements of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the conception, upon which this disclosure is based, may readily be utilized as a basis for the designing of other structures, methods and systems for carrying out the several purposes of the present invention. It is important, therefore, that the claims be regarded as including such equivalent constructions insofar as they do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Brief Description of Drawings Figure 1 is a bottom plan view illustrating the vacuum manifold conduit of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention, as installed on a conventional live casino card gaming table.

Figure 2 is a perspective detail view further illustrating portions of the vacuum manifold conduit and first stage filter elements of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention as installed on a conventional casino gaming table.

Figure 3 is a partially cut away cross-sectional view illustrating ashtray, first stage filter, and manifold components of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention, as installed on a conventional casino gaming table.

Figure 4 is a further partially cut away cross- sectional view illustrating ashtray, first stage filter, and manifold components of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention, as installed on a conventional casino gaming table.

Figure 5 is a still another partially cut away cross-sectional view illustrating ashtray, first stage filter, and manifold components of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention, as installed on a conventional casino gaming table.

Figure 6 is a central longitudinal cross- sectional view illustrating the cup portion of the ashtray component of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention.

Figure 7 is a front elevational view of the ashtray component of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention.

Figure 8 is a left side elevational view of the ashtray component of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention.

Figure 9 is a right side elevational view of the ashtray component of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention.

Figure 10 is a rear elevational view of the ashtray component of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention. Figure 11 is a top plan view of the ashtray component of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention.

Figure 12 is a bottom plan view of the ashtray component of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention.

Figure 13 is a front top perspective view of the ashtray component of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention. Figure 14 is a bottom perspective view of the ashtray component of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention.

Figure 15 is a top plan view of the cover portion of the ashtray component of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention.

Figure 16 is a bottom plan view of the cover portion of the ashtray component of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention. Figure 17 is a front elevational view of the cover portion of the ashtray component of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention.

Figure 18 is a front top perspective view of the cover portion of the ashtray component of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention.

Figure 19 is a bottom perspective view of the cover portion of the ashtray component of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention.

Figure 20 is a top perspective view of the ashtray component of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention with the cover removed.

Figure 21 is a partially exploded perspective view illustrating first stage filter and flue components of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention. Figure 22 is a fully exploded perspective view illustrating first stage filter and flue components of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention. Figure 23 is a top plan view illustrating the housing for second stage filter and motor components of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention. Figure 24 is a side elevational view illustrating the housing for second stage filter and motor components of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention.

Figure 25 is a front elevational view illustrating the housing for second stage filter and motor components of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention.

Figure 26 is a partially cut away top plan view illustrating the housing containing second stage filter and motor components of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention.

Figure 27 is a partially cut away side elevational view illustrating the housing containing second stage filter and motor components of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention.

Figure 28 is a partially cut away front elevational view illustrating the housing containing second stage filter and motor components of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention.

Figure 29 is a top front perspective view illustrating the housing for the second stage filter and motor components of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention, with the housing cover closed.

Figure 30 is a top front perspective view illustrating the housing containing the second stage filter and motor components of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention, with the housing cover open.

Figure 31 is a schematic diagram illustrating the electrical components of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention.

Figure 32 is a top plan view illustrating a preferred alternative construction of the screen portion of the ashtray cover assembly of the present invention. Figure 33 is a diagrammatic top plan view illustrating the housing containing second stage filter and motor components of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention.

Figure 34 is a diagrammatic side elevational view illustrating the housing containing second stage filter and motor components of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention.

Figure 35 is a diagrammatic front elevational view illustrating the housing containing second stage filter and motor components of the system for removing smoke from ashtrays of the present invention. Best Mode for Carrying Out The Invention

Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding structure throughout the views, and referring in particular to Figure 1, an improved -system 10 for removing smoke from ashtrays according to a first preferred embodiment of the invention may be provided in the form of a kit adapted for convenient retrofit installation in a variety of existing structures including bars, tables, counters, casino slot machine bases, and, in the form illustrated in Figure 1, in live casino card gaming tables of the type utilized in the play of Caribbean Stud (TM) poker, Blackjack or Twenty-One. The system 10 illustrated in Figure 1 is an example installation in a seven-player casino gaming table and includes a plurality of first stage filter elements 300 corresponding to each of six ashtrays installed between the seven player locations. Flexible tubing segments 350, end connectors 110, T connectors 200, exhaust line T connector 150, and exhaust line 360 form a vacuum manifold connecting each of six ashtrays to a vacuum motor/pump and charcoal filter contained within a housing 400. A control housing 500 and a power supply housing 480 connected by a wiring harness 490 to the motor within the housing 400 provides power and control functions, in a manner described hereinafter and illustrated by the schematic diagram shown in Figure 31.

With reference to Figures 1-5, the manner of installing the system 10 in a conventional casino card gaming table T will now be described. The table T illustrated is of the type having seven player locations spaced around one arcuate side A and a chip rack disposed adjacent an opposite straight edge D where a dealer typically stands. A central pedestal P supports the table surface at a desired elevation, in a conventional manner. An installation technician first chucks a hole saw in a power drill, in a conventional manner, and removes the table top from the supporting base or pedestal P. Using a locating template or other technique for measuring and marking preferably uniformly spaced points disposed on a common arc adjacent the arcuate edge A of the table T, the installation technician drills or cuts six holes 13 through the table surface dimensioned for insertion of the ashtrays 12. The table T typically comprises a rigid sheet material such as plywood covered by a felt layout sheet suitably marked for the associated card game. The technician then assembles the filter elements 300 and the vacuum conduit manifold on the underside of the table T, as shown in Figure 1. The two vacuum conduit end connectors 110 couple the first stage filter elements 300 at the outermost ashtray locations to adjacent conduit segments 350. The T connectors 200 couple the four intermediate ashtray locations to adjacent ashtray locations via additional conduit segments 350. The single exhaust line connector 150 couples the multiple ashtray manifold to the filter/motor coupling conduit 360. Brackets or straps of the type illustrated at 351 in Figure 2 may be employed to secure the manifold segments 350 and the exhaust line 360 to the underside of the table T. As may now be readily appreciated, the system 10 thus couples a plurality of ashtrays by use of a flexible conduit manifold system. Preferably, each of the conduit segments 350 and 360 comprise a vapor tight conduit, which may be plastic or metal. Plastic electrical conduit is currently preferred, and may be connected by press fit engagement with the connectors, with or without the use of glue. Another suitable, although less preferred, conduit material is 1.25 in. I.D. flexible exhaust tubing available from Perfection Automotive of Livonia, Michigan. In a less preferred alternative embodiment, in order to provide air tight connections between the connectors 110, 150, 200 and the conduit segments 350 and 360, short lengths of heat shrink tubing may be used at the locations where the conduit segments 350 join the connectors 110, 150, and 200. A similar connection may be used to connect the exhaust conduit 360. One example flame retardant heat shrink tubing material is Low Shrink Temperature (90 degrees C) Polyolefin FIT 221LT available from Alpha Wire Corporation of Elizabeth, N.J.

With reference to Figures 1-5, substantially identical filter elements 300 are installed at each of the six ashtray locations. A technician selectively utilizes the correct number and thickness of spacers 256, 257, 258 in order to position an inlet slot 251 of a flue member 250 slightly above an open upper end 23 of an ashtray chimney 18. The spacers 256, 257, and 258 may take the form of rubber, wooden, or plastic washers or shims, and are preferably provided in a sufficient number and in a variety of thicknesses to enable an installation technician to readily compensate for the varying thickness of a variety of different tables T, or other mounting surfaces. After suitable spacer selection, the technician secures the filter element 300 in a desired position on the underside of the table T using a plurality of screws 255 which extend through a plurality of preformed holes 253, 254 (Figure 22) in a support platform portion 252 of the filter element 300.

After the vacuum manifold and filter elements 300 have been assembled and attached to the underside of the table, the housing 400 containing a charcoal filter 380 and motor/pump assembly 420 is secured in a desired location. Figures 23-30 and 33-35 illustrate the housing 400, charcoal filter 380, and motor/pump assembly 420, which will be described in detail hereinafter. The selected mounting location for the housing 400 might be to the underside of the table or within a hollow table supporting base or pedestal P. In any event, suitable fasteners such as screws or bolts secure the filter/motor housing 400 in a fixed location. The outlet end of the conduit 360 is then secured to the motor/pump inlet 381 by the use of a conventional fastening technique, such as heat shrink tubing, which may be shrunk to fit using a conventional electrical heat gun. The technician then also fastens a power supply 480 and a control box 500 in desired locations, preferably where they will be readily accessible by a dealer disposed adjacent edge D of the table T, but not accessible to players. The technician then connects the motor/pump assembly 420, power supply 480, and control box 500 using a quick connect wiring harness 490.

After reassembly of the table top T on the support base or pedestal P, the technician inserts the ashtrays first through the central apertures 101 of the trim rings 100, and then through the holes 13 cut through the table T at each player location, such that the bottom surfaces 17 of the ashtrays 12 rest upon the support platforms 252 of the filter elements 300. The entire process can be accomplished in about 1.5 hrs. without the need for highly skilled workers.

The system 10 may be installed in a variety of other structures, such as bar rails, counter tops, desks, in vehicles such as planes, trains, and busses, and in other casino related structures such as the bases of slot machines.

With reference to Figures 3-20, the details of the construction and manner of installation of the ashtray 12 in the table T will now be further described. The ashtray 12 preferably includes a stainless steel cylindrical cup-shaped body 14 having a diameter of about 2.5 in. for insertion through a hole 13 cut through the table T by a conventional hole saw. Most preferably, the body 14 of the ashtray 12 is dimensioned to replace a conventional ashtray of the type conventionally removeably inserted in existing holes provided in many casino gaming tables, thus avoiding the necessity of cutting holes in many instances. The conventional known form of ashtray commonly employed in such casino gaming tables is available from Langworth Casino Supply Company, Inc. and also from Bud Jones Company, both of Las Vegas, Nevada. This conventional form of ashtray comprises a simple stainless steel cup with an insertable stainless steel screen member adapted for the support of cigarettes and cigars, but lacking any provisions for the vacuum removal and filtration of smoke.

With reference to Figures 3-6, 12, and 20, the ashtray 12 includes a central cylindrical tubular chimney 18 providing a pathway 19 for the passage of smoke S therethrough. As best shown in Figure 6, the ashtray 12 may optionally include a countersunk frusto conical recess 34 formed coaxially with the chimney 18 which opens outwardly to facilitate proper alignment of the chimney 18 with the flue 250 upon reinsertion of the ashtray 12 after removal for cleaning purposes. As shown in Figures 3-5, the passage 19 has a diameter substantially greater than the flue 250, except in an inwardly tapering frusto conical region 21 adjacent an upper end 23 of the chimney 18. This construction eases alignment and insertion of the flue 250 into the chimney 18 of the ashtray 12, and also prevents ashes from passing through the chimney 18.

In order to prevent ashes, butts, and other debris from passing through the chimney 18 and the flue 250 and potentially clogging the system, a shield disk 20 secured to a floor 51 of an ashtray cover assembly 50 overlies an open upper end 23 of the chimney 18, as well as the closed upper end of the flue 250. This results in the effective entrainment of smoke in the air stream, as shown at flow path S in Figures 3-5. While stainless steel is preferred, the ashtray 12 and chimney 18 may alternatively be integrally molded from a phenolic plastic material.

Figure 32 illustrates a preferred alternative construction of the screen portion 51 of the ashtray cover assembly 50, in which six circular holes 52 are disposed in an arc adjacent a front region of the screen 51 adapted to face a user. A large arcuate cut out or window 53 at the back of the screen 53 is intended to receive cigarette and cigar butts. A central region 20' of the screen 51 has a semicircular portion of radius R, and is dimensioned and disposed to overlie the flue 250, in order to shield the flue 250 and chimney 18 from falling ashes and other debris.

As can be appreciated from Figures 2-5, 21, and 22, a first stage filter element 300 includes a block- like body portion 302 having a recess 303 formed centrally on one face thereof. A projecting hollow cylindrical stub 305 extends outwardly from a central region of the recess 303 and is connected in fluid communication with the inlet leg 201 of the T connector 200. A hollow cylindrical replaceable filter cartridge 304 has an inner diameter dimensioned for press fit engagement over the stub 305. When assembled, a tie rod 307 having a first end 308 threadedly engaged in the block 302, through the hollow stub 305, extends centrally through the hollow interior of the filter cartridge 304. A seal disk or end cap 310 covers the end of the cartridge 304 disposed opposite the recess 303, and a distal threaded end 309 of the tie rod 307 extends through a central aperture 311 of the seal disk 310, and through a coaxial aperture 312 disposed centrally in a distal end face of a hollow filter canister 301. A nut 313 engages the threaded end portion 309 of the tie rod 307, thus sealing the cartridge 304 within the canister 301. In use, air and entrained smoke flows through the inlet slot 251 of the flue 250, downwardly through the block 302, out of an oval opening 314 disposed in the recess 303, and along an annular space 306 between the outer surface of the filter cartridge 304 and the inner surface of the canister 301, as shown in Figure 4. The air and entrained smoke then pass through the cylindrical wall of the filter cartridge 304 and into its hollow interior. The filtered air then exits the filter cartridge 304 through the stub 305 and passes into the connector 200 through the leg 201. The filter cartridge 304 is preferably a type of filter media available from the Finite Filter Division of Hanafin Parker, under the designation FINITE GRADE 6, and comprises a borasilicate microglass filter medium with graded porosity to remove aerosols and larger contaminants from an airstrea . Other conventional filter media may also be employed. The filter element 300 serves to remove tars and other visible components of smoke from the airstream prior to passage into the manifold. The filter cartridges 304 may be easily replaced by removing the nut 313 and canister 301. As shown in Figures 3-5, 7-11, 13, and 15-19, a cover assembly 50 for the ashtray 12 includes a cylindrical plug portion 54 dimensioned for insertion within the open upper end portion 25 of the body 14 of the ashtray 12. A plurality of spaced circular holes 52 in a floor 51 of the plug portion 54 form a screen adapted for the passage of smoking residue such as ashes and butts. As described above, a preferred screen construction is shown in Figure 32. An upper end of the plug portion 54 terminates in a radially outwardly extending circular flange 55 dimensioned to overlie the annular top rim 26 of the ashtray 12. A convex dome-shaped cover plate 56 includes peripheral edge portions secured by spot welding to the upper surface of the flange 55. Orientation of an arcuate window 57 in the cover plate 56 above the screen 51 provides user access for the deposit of ashes, butts, and the temporary resting of cigars and cigarettes. A convex dome-shaped slide plate 58 overlies the cover plate 56 and includes an arcuate window 60 selectively rotatable about the axis of a pivot bearing 61 into registry with the window 57 in an "OPEN" position. Alternatively, manual rotation of the slide plate 58 by manipulation of a handle knob 59 to move the window 60 out of registry with the window 57 effects closure of the cover assembly 50 to a "CLOSED" position when not in use. The pivot bearing 61 takes the form of an internally threaded sleeve extending centrally through aligned apertures in the slide plate 58 and the cover plate 56 and terminating at an upper end in a radially enlarged head 62. A washer 62 and a screw 63 serve to secure the slide plate 58 to the cover plate 56, but not so tightly as to preclude rotation of the slide plate 58. As can be appreciated from Figures 3-5, the cover assembly 50 may be merely lifted out of the ashtray 12 for cleaning purposes. Likewise, the ashtray 12 may also be lifted upwardly out of the hole 13 in the table T, without the need to disconnect any fitting or use any tools, in order to dump accumulated ashes and butts. Advantageously, the cover 50 and ashtray 12, both preferably formed from stainless steel or alternatively from phenolic plastic, may be conveniently cleaned in a commercial dishwasher without fear of damage. Upon replacement, the flange 15 of the ashtray 12 abuts the upper surface of the trim ring 100, which serves to provide an attractive appearance as well as acting as a burn shield for the table T in the event a cigar or cigarette inadvertently falls adjacent the ashtray 12.

With reference now again to Figures 2-5, the manner of connecting and securing a filter element 300 at an ashtray location will now be described in detail. A properly selected one of the connectors 110, 150, or 200 is employed at each ashtray location. In the case of end ^"most ashtray locations in the manifold, L connectors 110 are utilized. At intermediate locations, T connectors 200 are used. In Figures 3-5, an intermediate ashtray location is illustrated in conjunction with a T connector 200. In order to ensure central alignment, the ashtray 12 is preferably first inserted through the hole 13 in the table T, and the upper cylindrical portion 251 of the flue member 250 engaged within the passage 19 in the chimney 18 of the ashtray 12 prior to securement of the filter element 300 in position using screws 255 and spacers 256, 257, and 258.

After completion of the above installation steps at each ashtray location, using the appropriate ones of the connectors 110, 150, and 200, the conduit segments 350 may be connected to the connectors by press fit engagement with or without an adhesive or by using an appropriate length of heat shrink tubing, or by other conventional fastening techniques.

With reference to Figures 23-30 and 33-35, the housing 400 contains a charcoal filter 380 which is a generally conventional item, employing powdered charcoal disposed in a canister between screen end plates. Filter charcoal of the grade known commercially as #612 coconut hull carbon is preferred. Preferably, the charcoal filter 380 comprises a disposable filter element replaceably disposed in the housing 400 and secured by an elastic spring or bungee cord 402. The vacuum motor/pump assembly 420 preferably comprises a brushless 12 VDC motor 423 and a rotary blower 422 capable of providing a 250 to 300 cubic feet per minute airflow through the system. The motor/pump assembly 420 and the filter 380 are preferably enclosed in an insulated housing 400 in order to dampen sound and vibration created by airflow through the system and by motor operation. More specifically, the motor 423 and the blower 422 are disposed in a first sound insulated housing assembly 420, which is in turn disposed in a second sound insulated housing 400. A preferred sound insulating material comprises a closed cell foam, which is illustrated as a lining 421 in the housing 420. A vibration dampening gasket 424 provides a shock mounting for the motor 423 and the blower 422.

In the illustrated preferred configuration, the housing 400 includes a floor plate 401 having at one end a transverse end wall 403. A rubber gasket or similar shock mounting member 404 disposed between the motor/pump assembly 420 serves to dampen vibration and quiet the unit. The shock mounting member 404 and the motor/pump assembly 420 are preferably secured to the end wall 403 by conventional fasteners such as screws or bolts. A rubber gasket disposed between the housing 420 and the end wall 403 seals the interior of the housing 420, which is thus pressurized by the outlet of the blower 422 which exhausts into the housing 420. The pressurized air from the interior of the housing 420 passes through an outlet 383 into the charcoal filter 380, from which it is exhausted through an outlet aperture 416 into the interior of the unsealed housing 400. Thus, the inlet of the filter 380 is connected to the outlet 383 of the motor/pump assembly 420, such that the air flow path is into the motor/pump inlet 381, through the motor/pump assembly 420, through the filter 380, and out of the filter exhaust portal 416, and into the interior of the housing 400. A gasket 409 glued or otherwise secured to a peripheral flange 409 of the cover 406 substantially seals the housing 400 when its cover 406 is closed, except in regions 415 disposed adjacent pivot support flanges 405 which receive pins 407 which pivotally mount the cover 406 to the floor plate 401. The filtered air exhausted through the filter portal 416 distributes itself through the sound insulated interior of the housing 400 and escapes quietly to ambient through the unsealed regions 415. The housing 400 also includes a latch assembly including a latch member 413, which may take the form of a screw or other fastener, secured to a bracket 412 attached to a central edge portion of an end face of the cover 406. The latch member 413 engages a cooperating fasteners, such as a threaded socket 411, disposed centrally at one end of the floor plate 401. The floor plate 401 includes a plurality of holes 414 intended for use in securing the housing 400 to an intended mounting surface, such as the underside of a table, using conventional fasteners such as screws or bolts. As may now be readily appreciated, a technician may easily access the motor/pump assembly 420 and filter 380 for service or replacement by simply pivoting the cover 406 to the open position shown in Figure 30.

It should be noted that the particular construction of the sound insulated double housing described above is just one example embodiment, and that alternative constructions may be employed within the present invention. One important aspect of the present invention is the provision of a first substantially sealed and pressurized sound insulated motor arid pump housing disposed within a second sound insulated housing, in conjunction with the use of vibration dampened mounting of the blower and motor. Applicants have found that these features provide an exceptionally quiet smoke removal system which does not annoy or distract users.

A conventional 120 VAC input and 12NDC output power supply 480 provides 12 VDC power to the motor in a conventional manner. To provide simple on/off control, power on indication, and visual service required indication, a control box 500 is connected between the power supply 480 and the motor 420 using a quick connect wiring harness 490.

Figure 31 is a schematic diagram illustrating a printed circuit board and the electrical components of the control box 500. A first connector PI is connected to the 12 VDC output of the power supply 480. A second connector P2 is connected to the motor 420. An OΝ/OFF switch SI is operative to selectively open and close the circuit. In the ON or closed position of the switch SI, a green LED 1, visible on an external surface of the control box 500, is illuminated to provide a visual POWER ON indication. The circuit also monitors the current or amperage drawn by the motor 420 in order to provide a visual indication of a need for servicing the system when one or more of the filters 28 or 380 become significantly clogged. In particular, the current drawn or load on the motor 420 will decrease when the filters 28 and 380 become clogged, due to the decrease in the amount of air contacting the blades or vanes of the blower driven by the motor 420. Motor load monitoring is accomplished by using a first operational amplifier LM358-1 to detect the voltage drop across a resistor Rl of known impedance connected in series with the motor 420. Since the voltage drop across a resistor is related to the current through the resistor by the well known formula V=IR, the voltage drop across the resistor Rl indicates the load on the motor 420. The voltages VI and V2 on opposite ends of the resistor Rl are connected to the input pins of the operational amplifier LM358-1. As the filters clog, the current drawn by the motor will decrease, causing the voltage drop VI - V2 across the resistor Rl to also decrease. This means that V2 will increase, causing V3 at the output pin of the operational amplifier LM358-1 to decrease. In order to filter transient current surges inherent in the normal operation of a motor, particularly a brushless DC motor, a capacitor C2 and resistor R3 are connected in parallel with the operational amplifier LM358-1 to form an integrating circuit. The decreased voltage V3 in turn causes a second operational amplifier LM358-2 to bias a transistor Ql, which acts as a switch, "ON" thus allowing current flow through a red LED 2, providing a visual "service needed" indication. As is well known, an LM358 is an integrated circuit chip containing two operational amplifiers on a common chip. The following table provides further details of the various circuit components.

REFERENCE PART ♦ DESCRIPTION MANUFACTURER

Rl SC1A0.1 WW, 1W, 1%, CLAROSTAT 0.1 Ohm

B2, R8, R9 1KQTR-ND Carbon, 1/4 W, YAEGO 5%, IK

R3, R4, R7 20KQTR-ND Carbon, 1/4 W, YAEGO 5%, 20K

R5 47KQTR-ND Carbon, 1/4 W, YAEGO 5%, 47K R6 100KQTR-ND Carbon, 1/4 W, YAEGO 5%, 100K

LED 1 5300H1 Led, TI, 3/4, IDI 90 Deg, Red

LED 2 5300H5 Led, TI, 3/4, IDI 90 Deg, Red

CI ECE-A1EU101 lOOuf, 25v, PANASONIC SU series

C2 ECE-A25Z4R7 4.7ύf, 25v, PANASONIC Z series

PI, P2 39-30-3036 Housing, 3 Pos MOLEX

Ql 2N2222A Transistor LM358-1, -2 Opa p, 8 pin dip

The above-described motor load monitoring system may be preferably obviated, and replaced by a manual flow meter testing technique to monitor filter condition. For example, by using a suitable adaptor, a flow meter can be connected in a one at a time sequential manner to each of the flues 250 in order to individually determine the flow rate through each of the flues. In this manner, the need to change one or more of the filter cartridges 304 of the first stage filter elements 300 may be readily and economically determined.

The present system thus provides an easily installed and maintained system to capture and remove smoke from ashtrays, using an entirely fireproof two- step filter system. The second stage charcoal filter unit 380 functions to remove smoking odors, and has a relatively long service life due to the pre-filtering operation of the first stage filter cartridges 304.

It is to be understood, however, that even though numerous characteristics and advantages of the present invention have been set forth in the foregoing description, together with details of the structure and function of the invention, the disclosure is illustrative only, and changes may be made in detail, especially in matters of materials, shape, size and arrangement of parts within the principles of the invention to the full extent indicated by the broad general meaning of the terms in which the appended claims are expressed.

Claims

Claims :

1. A system (10) for removing smoke from ashtrays (12) , comprising: at least one ashtray (12) ; an upstanding chimney (18) in said ashtray (12) ; a recess (34) in a bottom surface of said ashtray (12) in fluid communication with said chimney (18) ; a flue member (250) removeably inserted in said recess and within said chimney (18) ; and a vacuum manifold (110, 150, 200, 350, 360) connecting said flue member (250) to a filter and vacuum source (400) for suctioning smoke out of said ashtray (12) through said flue member (250) .

2. The system (10) for removing smoke from ashtrays (12) of claim 1, further comprising a shield (20) in said ashtray (12) to inhibit ashes and debris from passing into said chimney (18) and said flue member (250) .

3. The system (10) for removing smoke from ashtrays (12) of claim 2, wherein said shield (20) comprises a disk shaped member at least partially overlying said chimney (18) and said flue member (250) .

4. The system for removing smoke from ashtrays (12) of claim 2, wherein said shield (20) is disposed sufficiently above an open upper end (23) of said chimney (18) to allow passage of air and smoke under said shield (20) and into said flue member (250) .

5. The system (10) for removing smoke from ashtrays (12) of claim 2, wherein said flue member (250) includes an arcuate circumferential slot (251) for the inlet of smoke.

6. The system (10) for removing smoke from ashtrays (12) of claim 1, further comprising a filter element (300) in fluid communication with said flue member (250) for filtering air and smoke prior to passage into said vacuum manifold (110, 150, 200, 350, 360) .

7. The system (10) for removing smoke from ashtrays (12) of claim 6, wherein said filter element (300) includes an elongated hollow cylindrical replaceable filter cartridge (304) having a central hollow interior portion in fluid communication with said vacuum manifold (110, 150, 200, 350, 360), said filter element (300) disposed in a substantially air tight canister assembly (301) in fluid communication with said flue member (250) , such that air and smoke from said flue member (250) are filtered through said filter cartridge (304) prior to passage into said manifold (110, 150, 200, 350, 360).

8. The system (10) for removing smoke from ashtrays of claim 7, wherein said filter element (300) includes an elongated axially extending tie rod (307) for securing an end cap (310) to said filter cartridge (304) .

9. The system (10) for removing smoke from ashtrays (12) of claim 1, wherein said vacuum manifold (110, 150, 200, 350, 360) comprises flexible tubing.

10. The system (10) for removing smoke from ashtrays (12) of claim 1, wherein said ashtray (12) rests on a support platform (252) of a filter element (300) secured beneath said ashtray (12) .

11. The system (10) for removing smoke from ashtrays (12) of claim 10, wherein said ashtray (12) is disposed at least partially in a hole (13) formed through a mounting surface (T) , and said filter element (300) is secured to an underside of said mounting surface (T) .

12. The system (10) for removing smoke from ashtrays (12) of claim 1, wherein said system (10) includes a plurality of ashtrays (12) , with a first stage filter (300) associated with each of said ashtrays (12) for filtering out smoke from said ashtrays (12) prior to passage into said vacuum manifold (110, 150, 200, 350, 360) .

13. The system (10) for removing smoke from ashtrays (12) of claim 1, wherein said vacuum source (400) includes a motor (420) and further comprising a control system (500) connected to said motor (420) and monitoring current drawn by the motor (420) to provide an indication of filter clogging.

14. The system (10) for removing smoke from ashtrays (12) of claim 1, wherein said ashtray (12) includes an upper outwardly extending flange (15) , and further comprising a trim ring (100) receiving said ashtray (12) therethrough and dimensioned for abutment with said flange (15) .

15. The system (10) for removing smoke from ashtrays (12) of claim 1, further comprising a cover assembly (50) for said ashtray (12) , said cover assembly (12) including: a screen (51) for supporting cigars and cigarettes and including a plurality of apertures (52) for the passage of ashes into said ashtray (12) ; a cover plate (56) overlying said screen (51) and including a first window (57) ; and a slide plate (58) movably mounted to said cover plate (56) and including a second window (60) selectively movable into and out of registry with said first window (57) for opening and closing said ashtray

(12).

16. A system (10) for removing smoke from ashtrays (12) , comprising: a plurality of ashtrays (12) ; means (52, 18, 251, 250) creating a passage through each of said ashtrays (12) for the passage of smoke; means (20, 51) for preventing ashes and other debris from entering said passage; means (300, 110, 150, 200, 350, 360) connecting each of said ashtrays in a common manifold; means (400) for creating a vacuum in said common manifold; and means (300, 380) for filtering smoke from air passing through said manifold.

17. The system (10) for removing smoke from ashtrays (12) of claim 16, further comprising means (50) for covering each of said ashtrays (12) including means (56, 57, 58, 60) for selectively at least partially restricting air flow through each of said ashtrays (12).

18. An ashtray (12) for connection to a vacuum source (400) , comprising: a substantially hollow body (14) including an at least partially open upper end (25) for receipt of cigars and cigarettes; an upstanding chimney (18) in said body (14) including an air passage (15) therethrough; said chimney (18) opening downwardly through a floor (17) of said body (14) for connection to a vacuum source (400) ; and a shield (20) in said body for inhibiting the entrance of ashes and debris into said chimney (18) .

19. The ashtray (12) of claim 18, wherein said shield (20) at least partially overlies an open upper end (23) of said chimney (18) .

20. The ashtray (12) of claim 19, wherein said shield (20) comprises a disk.