WO2019212931A1

WO2019212931A1 - Candle blowing apparatus

Info

Publication number: WO2019212931A1
Application number: PCT/US2019/029570
Authority: WO
Inventors: Mary Jo VANTIEM; Michael Giampetroni
Original assignee: Cleaner Cakes, L.L.C.
Priority date: 2018-04-30
Filing date: 2019-04-29
Publication date: 2019-11-07
Also published as: US20190331341A1

Abstract

A candle blowing apparatus (100) may have a main housing (102), a mouthpiece (108), at least one filter cartridge (110), and an ornamental endpiece (114). The main housing (102) may have a first end (104) and a second end (106). The mouthpiece (108) may be removably attached to the first end (104) of the main housing (102). The at least one filter cartridge (110) may include at least one filter (112). The filter cartridge (110) may be removably disposed within the main housing (102) between the first end (104) and the second end (106). The filter cartridge (110) may be in fluid communication with the mouthpiece (108). The ornamental endpiece (114) may be removably attached to the second end (106) of the main housing (102) and be in fluid communication with the filter cartridge (110). The ornamental endpiece (114) together with the mouthpiece (108) and the filter cartridge (110) may define an air flow path for hygienic delivery of an extinguishing gust of air to a candle.

Description

CANDLE BLOWING APPARATUS

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.

62/664,316, filed on April 30, 2018. The entire disclosure of the above application is hereby incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to candle blowing devices and, more particularly, to a candle blowing device that minimizes the spreading of germs and pathogens when blowing out candles.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Holidays, especially birthdays, are often celebrated with cake. These cakes are often adorned with candles and blown out to commemorate the holiday. However, there is growing concern about the health risks associated with this traditional practice of blowing out candles at birthdays and celebrations.

[0004] Studies have shown that the simple act of blowing out celebratory or birthday candles increases the level of bacteria on the cake frosting by 1400% and above. These concerns are further exacerbated if the person is sick or unaware they are sick.

[0005] Currently, there are few viable solutions available to militate against spreading of germs onto cakes with candles. Known solutions include preventative measures such as consumers opting to not blow out candles, use of cupcakes instead of a whole cake, or scraping frosting off the cake. These methods will stop or prevent the spread of germs, but also inconsistent with the celebratory or birthday tradition and are therefore generally undesirable.

[0006] There is a continuing need for a candle blowing apparatus that filters air blown at candles. Desirably, the candles blowing apparatus will feature a removable filter cartridge to allow for repeated hygienic uses of the same apparatus. SUMMARY

[0007] In concordance with the instant disclosure, a candle blowing apparatus that filters air blown at candles, and which features a removable filter cartridge to allow for repeated hygienic uses of the same apparatus, has been surprisingly discovered.

[0008] In one embodiment, a candle blowing apparatus may have a main housing with a first end and a second end. A mouthpiece may be removably attached to the first end of the main housing. The candle blowing apparatus also includes at least one filter cartridge with at least one filter. The filter cartridge may be removably disposed within the main housing between the first end and the second end. The filter cartridge may be in fluid communication with the mouthpiece. An ornamental endpiece may be removably attached to the second end of the main housing and be in fluid communication with the filter cartridge. The ornamental endpiece, together with the mouthpiece and the filter cartridge, may define an air flow path for delivery of an extinguishing gust of air to a candle in operation.

[0009] In another embodiment, a kit for a candle blowing apparatus may include a main housing, a mouthpiece, at least one filter cartridge, and an ornamental endpiece, all provided separately or initially unconnected to one another, for example, in a package. The main housing may have a first end and a second end. The mouthpiece may be configured to be removably attached to the first end of the main housing. The at least one filter cartridge may include at least one filter. The filter cartridge may be configured to be removably disposed within the main housing between the first end and the second end. The filter cartridge may be configured to be in fluid communication with the mouthpiece. The ornamental endpiece may be configured to be removably attached to the second end of the main housing and configured to be in fluid communication with the filter cartridge. The ornamental endpiece, together with the mouthpiece and the filter cartridge, may be configured to define an air flow path for delivery of an extinguishing gust of air to a candle upon assembly and in operation. The kit may further include a plurality of the filter cartridges, to permit for the repeated hygienic use of the same kit over time. [0010] In a further embodiment, a method of using a candle blowing apparatus includes the steps of providing the kit for a candle blowing apparatus. The kit may include the following separate components: the main housing, the mouthpiece, the at least one filter cartridge including at least one filter, and the ornamental endpiece. The method also includes a second step of connecting the mouthpiece and at least one filter cartridge. The mouthpiece and the at least one filter cartridge are then inserted into the main housing, and the ornamental endpiece is disposed on the main housing, in a third step of the method. The method has a further step of securing the mouthpiece to the main housing via connecting means. The method further includes a step or orienting the assembled candle blowing apparatus toward the candle to be extinguished. A final step of the method may include blowing the extinguishing gust of air toward the candle by the user blowing air into the mouthpiece of the assembled apparatus.

[0011] In an exemplary embodiment, a candle blowing apparatus may have the main housing, an air outlet endpiece, an air inlet mouthpiece, and the removable filter cartridge. In particular, the disclosure contemplates the use of forced filtered air rather than one’s unfiltered breath to extinguish candles, thereby militating against the spread of germs and pathogens. The air can be blown from the inlet mouthpiece, through the removable filter cartridge that is coupled to the main housing, and out through the air outlet piece.

[0012] The candle blowing apparatus may, in certain embodiments, include an air inlet mouthpiece that is removably coupled to the filter cartridge. The main housing is removably coupled to both an air outlet piece and a filter cartridge. The filter cartridge may be formed from multiple components, including at least one filter inside of a filter cartridge sheath, as described and shown further herein.

[0013] The candle blowing apparatus may, in certain embodiments, include a filter cartridge that utilizes at least one filter, where the filter cartridge functions to force air through the filters within the cartridge. In other embodiments, the filter cartridge includes two or more filters. The removable filter cartridge may also include O- rings, fixed baffle integral seals, and baffle walls for diverting air through the filters from the inlet to the outlet. The O-ring or seal and the baffles may be separately provided or fixedly connected to the filter cartridge.

[0014] As a non-limiting example, the filter may be N95 filter material. In another embodiment, the filter cartridge may contain at least one filter chamber, or a series or chambers in sequence, instead of O-rings (or integral seals) and baffles. Other types of filter materials such as N99, P100 and some antiseptic filter materials, as non-limiting examples, are also contemplated and may be used.

[0015] The air inlet mouthpiece may be removably coupled to the filter cartridge.

The mouthpiece may also be a variety of shapes including a mostly tubular shape, or a tapered shape. One of ordinary skill in the art may select other shapes for the mouthpiece, as desired.

[0016] The air outlet may be removably coupled to the main housing unit. The outlet may be a variety of shapes. The filter cartridge may also include a round mesh type screen, which is positioned in the path of airflow before the air outlet. The outlet may also be any endpiece configured to be removably coupled with the main housing unit. As a non-limiting example, the outlet could be a horn or a cartoon character’s head. The endpiece may be held in place by a press- or friction-fit, for example; although, other means of securing the endpiece to the main body may also be used. It should be appreciated that a skilled artisan may select any other suitable shape or removable body for the outlet within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0017] It should also be appreciated that the filter cartridge or filter may have one or more screens. These additional screens may be fixed in the path of airflow at any point in the at least one filter or the filter cartridge, as desired.

[0018] The filter cartridge sheath is configured to be removably coupled to all other elements of the candle blowing apparatus. It is a cylindrical and hollow tube configured be received in an outermost container in the form of the main housing. The filter cartridge sheath may also have air ports on either end.

[0019] Although the apparatus is shown in the drawings being either tube-shaped or generally round in cross-sectional shape, it should be appreciated that any other suitable shapes including rectilinear cross-sectional shapes may also be used. DRA WINGS

[0020] The drawings described herein are for illustration purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way.

[0021] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a child using a candle blowing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0022] FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the candle blowing apparatus shown in Claim 1 , with an ornamental endpiece shown in phantom lines to illustrate the underlying end of a main housing;

[0023] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional, side elevational view of the candle blowing apparatus taken at section line A--A in FIG. 2, and showing a path of airflow through the apparatus by arrows;

[0024] FIG. 4 is an exploded, side elevational view of the candle blowing apparatus shown in FIG. 1 ;

[0025] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional, side elevational view of the candle blowing apparatus taken at section line C--C in FIG. 4;

[0026] FIG. 6 is an enlarged, cross-sectional, fragmentary, side elevational view illustrating a connection of a mouthpiece and a main body of the candle blowing apparatus taken at call out B in FIG. 3, according to one embodiment of the disclosure and showing an annular bead received by an annular groove for selectively holding a mouthpiece to the main housing;

[0027] FIG. 7 is an is an enlarged, cross-sectional, fragmentary, side elevational view illustrating the connection of the mouthpiece and the main body of the candle blowing apparatus taken at call out B in FIG. 3, according to another embodiment of the disclosure and showing a threaded cooperation for selectively holding a mouthpiece to the main housing;

[0028] FIG. 8 is an enlarged, cross-sectional, fragmentary, side elevational view of a filter cartridge of the candle blowing apparatus taken at section line A--A in FIG. 2, according to another embodiment of the disclosure and showing a path of airflow through the filter cartridge by arrows;

[0029] FIG. 9 is an enlarged, cross-sectional, fragmentary, side elevational view illustrating the connection of the mouthpiece and the filter cartridge of the candle blowing apparatus of FIG. 1 , according to yet another embodiment of the disclosure and showing a flexible sleeve for connecting the mouthpiece and the filter cartridge;

[0030] FIG.10 is a top perspective view of the mouthpiece, according to another embodiment of the disclosure;

[0031] FIG. 11 is a top perspective view of a kit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] FIG. 12 is a flow chart illustrating a method of use according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] FIG. 13 is a fragmentary, cross-sectional, side elevational view of the candle blowing apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, and showing an endpiece integrally formed with the main housing; and

[0034] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional, side elevational view of the candle blowing apparatus according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, and showing a hollow filter with port holes for air flow through the filter cartridge, with the path of airflow through the apparatus further shown by arrows.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0001] The following detailed description and appended drawings describe and illustrate various exemplary embodiments of the disclosure. The description and drawings serve to enable one skilled in the art to make and use the disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure in any manner. In respect of the methods disclosed, the steps presented are exemplary in nature, and thus, the order of the steps is not necessary or critical unless otherwise disclosed.

[0035] As shown in FIGS. 1 -10, a candle blowing apparatus 100 may have a main housing 102. The main housing 102 may have a first end 104 and a second end 106. The candle blowing apparatus 100 may also have a mouthpiece 108. The mouthpiece 108 may be removably attached to the first end 104 of the main housing 102.

[0036] The candle blowing apparatus 100 may further have a filter cartridge 110.

The filter cartridge may have at least one filter 112. The filter cartridge 110 may be removably disposed within the main housing 102 between the first end 104 and the second end 106. The filter cartridge 110 may be in fluid communication with the mouthpiece 108.

[0037] The candle blowing apparatus 100 may have an ornamental endpiece 114.

The ornamental endpiece 114 may be removably attached to the second end 106 of the main housing 102. The ornamental endpiece 114 may be in fluid communication with the filter cartridge 110.

[0038] It should be understood that the main housing 102, together with the mouthpiece 108 and the filter cartridge 110, defines an air flow path for delivery of an extinguishing gust of air to a candle. Advantageously, the candle blowing apparatus 100 allows a user to extinguish the candle while militating against the spread of germs and bacteria from the user’s mouth to a cake or the surrounding environment.

[0039] The various components of the candle blowing apparatus 100 may be fabricated from a variety of materials including, but not limited to, plastic, metal, or any other suitably rigid material. The main housing 102 of the candle blowing apparatus 100 may be mostly tube shaped, for example. Although the main housing 102 of the candle blowing apparatus 100 is shown in the drawings being either tube-shaped, or otherwise generally round in cross-sectional shape, it should be appreciated that any other suitable shapes including rectilinear cross- sectional shapes may also be used.

[0040] The main housing 102 of the candle blowing apparatus 100 may also include structural bracings (not shown). Advantageously, any such bracing may provide desirably rigidity to the candle blowing apparatus 100. A skilled artisan may select any suitable construction material, shape, and structure for the main housing 102 of the candle blowing apparatus 100, as desired.

[0041] As illustrated in FIGS. 2-5, the first end 104 of the main housing 102 may have an aperture 116 formed therein. The aperture 116 may receive the filter cartridge 110. The second end 106 of the main housing 102 may have a tapered portion 118 and an air outlet 120. The air outlet 120 may allow air to exit the main housing 102, in operation. The tapered portion 118 may be adapted to receive the ornamental endpiece 114.

[0042] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 5, the ornamental endpiece 114 may have a correspondingly tapered recess 122. The tapered portion 118 of the main housing 102 may be disposed in the tapered recess 122 of the ornamental endpiece 114. The ornamental endpiece 114 may be connected to the tapered portion 118 via a press- or friction-fit, as non-limiting examples.

[0043] In certain embodiments, the press- or friction-fit may be provided by at least one O-ring or seal 124 that is disposed on the tapered recess 122. In an alternative embodiment, not shown, the at least one O-ring or seal 124 may be disposed within the tapered recess 122 of the ornamental endpiece 114. It should be appreciated that the at least one O-ring or seal 124 may form a substantially fluid-tight seal between the main housing 102 and the ornamental endpiece 114. A skilled artisan may select any suitable means for connecting the main housing 102 and the ornamental endpiece 114.

[0044] It should be appreciated that the ornamental endpiece 114 may be any suitable shape including, but not limited to, a horn or a decorative toy animal head, as non-limiting examples. In certain examples, the ornamental endpiece 114 may also have the at least one filter 112 disposed therein. The user may interchange a variety of ornamental endpieces 114, as desired. Advantageously, the candle blowing apparatus 100 may be customized by the user via the ornamental endpiece 114. The user may select any suitable shape for the ornamental endpiece 114 of the candle blowing apparatus 100, as desired.

[0045] With renewed reference to FIGS. 2-5, the mouthpiece 108 may have a hollow main body 126 and a tube 128. The tube 128 may extend outwardly from, and be in fluid communication with, the hollow main body 126. The mouthpiece 108 may also have a flange 130 that functions as a hard stop during assembly to form the candle blowing apparatus 100. For example, upon assembly, where the mouthpiece 108 is disposed in the aperture 116 of the main housing 102, the flange 130 may abut the first end 104 of the main housing 102 of the candle blowing apparatus 100 to define a junction 131 (shown in FIGS. 2, 6, and 7). The flange 130 may be adapted to be flush with the outer surface of the main housing 102 upon assembly or may have a different diameter or size so as to have a different appearance relative to the remainder of the main housing 102, as desired.

[0046] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the mouthpiece 108 may have first connection means 132. The first connection means 132 may be disposed on an exterior surface 134 of the hollow main body 126, for example. The main housing 102 may have corresponding second connection means 136. The second connection means 136 may be disposed on an interior surface of the main housing 102, for example. In particular, the second connection means 136 may be disposed on the interior surface adjacent to, but spaced apart from , the aperture 116 of the first end 104 of the main housing 102.

[0047] It should be appreciated that the first connection means 132 and the second connection means 136 are configured to interact and thereby removably secure the mouthpiece 108 to the main housing 102. For example, the first and second connection means 132, 136 may be pressure or snap clips. A skilled artisan may select any suitable connection means 132, 136, as desired.

[0048] In certain embodiments, for example, as shown in FIG. 6, the first connection means 132 and the second connection means 136 are configured to removably secure the mouthpiece 108 to the main housing 102 via a press-fit or a friction fit. According to this embodiment, the first connection means 132 may be a male component 138 such as an annular bead. The second connection means 136 may be a female component 140 such as an annular recess. It should be understood that the male component 138 may be adapted to be received by the female component 140 upon assembly of the candle blowing apparatus 100, and thereby removably secure the mouthpiece 108 to the main housing 102.

[0049] In other embodiments, for example, as shown in FIG. 7, the first connection means 132 and the second connection means 136 are corresponding threaded portions of the mouthpiece 108 and the main housing 102, respectively, and are configured to removably secure the mouthpiece 108 to the main housing 102 via a threaded connection. According to this embodiment, the first and second connection means 132, 136 may be corresponding threads 142. In this embodiment, the mouthpiece 108 may be screwed into the main housing 102 upon assembly.

[0050] Advantageously, the first and second connection means 132, 136 securely connect the mouthpiece 108 to the main housing 142 while allowing the user to selectively remove the mouthpiece 108, for example, to install or replace the filter cartridge 110 disposed therein. A skilled artisan may select any other suitable means for connecting the mouthpiece 108 to the main housing 102, as desired.

[0051] It should be appreciated that the mouthpiece 108 may be removably secured to the main housing 102. The mouthpiece 108 may also have the at least one filter 112 disposed therein. Advantageously, the user may remove and replace the mouthpiece 108, as desired. More than one user may thereby utilize the candle blowing apparatus 100 while further militating against the spread of germs and bacteria in operation.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 10, the hollow main body 126 of the mouthpiece 108 may have a contoured end 143. Advantageously, the contoured end 143 may be ergonomic and allow the user to comfortably use the candle blowing apparatus 100. Any suitable shape for the contoured end 143 may be selected by the skilled artisan within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0053] In alternative embodiments, not shown, at least one of the main housing 102, the mouthpiece 108, and the ornamental endpiece 114 may contain a noise maker, such as a whistle, a rattle, or the like. The noise maker is configured to generate a celebratory noise where the candle blowing apparatus 100 is either shaken or blown through. The candle blowing apparatus may also contain lights. The lights may be powered by at least one battery. One of ordinary skill in the art may also select other suitable types and structures for the noise maker and lights, as desired.

[0054] It should be appreciated that the filter cartridge 110 of the present disclosure may be removably disposed in the main housing 102. Advantageously, the user may remove and replace the filter cartridge 110, as desired, in order to allow for repeated use of the candle blowing apparatus 100 over time. For example, the user may replace the filter cartridge 110 after a single one (1 ) use or the user may replace the filter cartridge after ten (10) uses, as desired. It should be appreciated that any number of uses for the filter cartridge 110 are contemplated by this disclosure.

[0055] With renewed reference to FIGS. 3-5, the filter cartridge 110 may have a cartridge body 144. The at least one filter 112 may be disposed in the cartridge body 144. The cartridge body 144 may have a first end 146 a second end 148. A conduit 150 may be disposed on the first end 146 of the cartridge body 144. The cartridge body 144 may have an air inlet aperture 152 formed through the conduit 150 at the first end 146. The cartridge body 144 may also have an air outlet aperture 154 formed in the second end 148.

[0056] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 5, the at least one filter 112 may be a single filter 112 fabricated from foam of a NIOSFI-standard filter rating or grade N95, N99, or P100, as non-limiting examples. Filter materials of a grade N95 or superior have been especially found to be useful for the prevention of spreading certain viruses such as those responsible the common flu or influenza. In further embodiments, the use of alternative materials for the filter 112 are contemplated, including but not limited to porous metals, meshes, and antiseptic gel filter materials. A skilled artisan may select any other suitable material for the at least one filter 112 within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0057] In a further embodiment, for example as shown in FIG. 14, the filter cartridge may be spaced apart from the main housing 102. The filter 112 may be a hollow cylinder. The filter may line the interior surface of the filter cartridge 110. In this embodiment, the second end 148 of the cartridge body 144 may be closed. The filter cartridge 144 may have a plurality of airports 176 formed therethrough. In operation, air flow may enter the cartridge body 144. Air pressure may build at the second end 148 and the air may be forced through the filter 112. The airflow may pass through the plurality of airports 176 into the main housing 102. The air may flow from the main housing 102 out the air outlet 120 of the main housing 102.

[0058] With renewed reference to FIGS. 3 and 5, in certain embodiments, the filter 112 may substantially fill an interior of the filter cartridge 110. The filter 112 may be substantially cylindrical in shape, and have a rectangular cross-section, for example, so as to confirm to the interior shape of the cartridge body 144 of the filter cartridge 110. The filter 112 may have at least one end cap. The end cap may be a mesh screen, as a non-limiting example. Advantageously, the filter 112 may allow air to pass from the air inlet aperture 152 to the air outlet aperture 154 while screening out and effectively militating against germs and bacteria exiting via the air outlet aperture 154. A skilled artisan may select any other suitable shape for the at least one filter 112, as desired.

[0059] Although the filter cartridge 110 is shown and described primarily herein as having a single, unitary filter 112, it should be appreciated that the filter cartridge 110 may alternatively be provided with a plurality of the filters 112. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, the plurality of filters 112 may be disposed in a series and separated from one another by at least one baffle wall 156. The at least one baffle wall 156 may be formed on an interior surface of the filter cartridge 110, for example, or may be loosely inserted as non-sealing partitions between the filters 112 upon assembly. Advantageously, the at least one baffle wall 156 may further militate against germs and bacteria exiting the air outlet aperture 154 by diverting the air flow path within the filter cartridge 110, for example, by causing the air flow path to be serpentine (shown by arrows in FIG. 8) as the air flows through the filter cartridge 110 from the air inlet aperture 152 to the air outlet aperture 154 in operation.

[0060] It should be understood that any suitable number of, and other arrangements of, the filters 112 are contemplated by the present disclosure. The filter cartridge 110 may contain the at least one filter 112, and optionally the baffles 156, as described hereinabove, but may also contain O-rings and fixed baffle integral seals (not shown), as other non-limiting examples. A skilled artisan may select any other suitable constructions for the filter cartridge 110 and its various components, as desired.

[0061] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 5, the filter cartridge 110 may further include sealing means 158. The sealing means 158 may create a substantially fluid-tight seal between the at least one filter cartridge 110 and the mouthpiece 108 upon assembly. Advantageously, the fluid-tight seal militates against air exiting the main housing 102 without passing through the at least one filter 112 of the filter cartridge 110. Thus, the air-tight seal further militates against the spread of germs and bacteria while extinguishing candles and allows for the repeated hygienic use of the same main housing 102.

[0062] In certain embodiments, for example, as depicted in FIG. 3, the sealing means 158 may be an O-ring 160. The O-ring 160 may be disposed in the conduit 150 of the filter cartridge 110. For example, the conduit 150 may have an annular groove 162 formed in a substantially laterally central location on an interior surface of the conduit 150. The groove 162 may receive a portion of the O-ring 160 and retain it in a lateral position within the conduit 150. In particular, it should be understood that the groove 162 may hold the O-ring 160 in place spaced apart from the first end 146 of the cartridge body 144.

[0063] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 3, an end 164 of the tube 128 of the mouthpiece 108 may be disposed through the conduit 150 of the cartridge body 146 upon assembly. The end 164 may abut an interior stop wall 165 at the first end 146 of the cartridge body 144, for example, where fully inserted into the conduit 150. An exterior surface of the tube 128 may contact and compress the O-ring 160, and thereby create the substantially fluid-tight seal to form the air flow path between the mouthpiece 108 and the filter cartridge 110.

[0064] In other embodiments, for example as illustrated in FIG. 9, the sealing means 158 may be provided in the form of a sealing sleeve 166. The sleeve 166 may be substantially tubular in shape and configured to receive each of the end of the tube 128 and the conduit 150 and hold the same together in the fluid-tight sealing arrangement. The sleeve 166 may be flexible and fabricated from rubber or silicone, as one non-limiting example. A skilled artisan may select any suitable material and shape for the sealing sleeve 166, as desired.

[0065] As shown, the sleeve 166 may normally be disposed on the conduit 150 of the cartridge body 146. Upon assembly, the sleeve 166 may then receive the tube 128 of the mouthpiece 108. The end 164 of the tube 128 of the mouthpiece 108 may abut or be disposed adjacent the conduit 150 of the cartridge body 146 of the filter cartridge 110, as shown in FIG. 9. The sealing sleeve 166 creates the substantially fluid-tight seal, as described hereinabove. The combined mouthpiece 108, sealing sleeve 166, and filter cartridge 110 may subsequently be inserted into the main housing 102 for end use.

[0066] It should be understood that other suitable means of connecting the mouthpiece 108 and the filter cartridge 110, and creating a substantially fluid-tight seal, are contemplated and considered encompassed by the present disclosure. These suitable means may militate against air exiting the main housing 102 without passing through the filter 112 of the filter cartridge 110 where the user blows into the mouthpiece 108, as shown in FIG. 1.

[0067] Referring now to FIG. 11 , the present disclosure further includes a kit 200 for customizing the candle blowing apparatus 100. The kit 200 contains each of the primary components described hereinabove, both disconnected but arranged in a package for subsequent assembly and use. The kit 200 may have the main housing 102 with the first end 104 and the second end 106, which is separately provided from the mouthpiece 108. The mouthpiece 108 configured to be removably attached to the first end 104 of the main housing 106 and as shown and described hereinabove.

[0068] In a further embodiment of the present disclosure, for example as shown in FIG. 13, the ornamental end piece 114 may be integrally formed with the main housing 102. The main housing 102 may have a tube 168 disposed on the tapered end 118 of the main body 102. The tube 168 may include at least one brace 172. The at least one brace 172 may securely hold the tube 168 in the main housing 102. The main housing 102 may further have a baffle wall 170. The filter cartridge 110 may abut the baffle wall 170 such that air may pass from the filter cartridge 110 to the tube 168. The candle blowing apparatus may have an end cap 174. The end cap may be removably disposed on the tube 168. Advantageously, the tube 168 may allow for improved airflow through the main housing 102, in operation.

[0069] The kit 200 may have the at least one filter cartridge 110 including at least one filter 112. The filter cartridge 110 may be configured to be removably disposed within the main housing 102 between the first end 104 and the second end 106. The filter cartridge may be configured to be in fluid communication with the mouthpiece 108. The at least one filter cartridge may be a plurality of filter cartridges as shown and described hereinabove.

[0070] The ornamental endpiece 114 may be configured to be removably attached to the second end 106 of the main housing 102. The ornamental endpiece 114 may be configured to be in fluid communication with the filter cartridge 110. The ornamental endpiece 114 together with the mouthpiece 108 and the filter cartridge 110 may be configured to define the air flow path for delivery of the extinguishing gust of air to the candle.

[0071] The kit 200 may include a plurality of ornamental endpieces 114. In operation, the user may select any suitable shape for the ornamental endpiece 114 including but not limited to horns, cartoon characters, and toy animal heads. Any other suitable type of ornamental endpiece 114 may be selected and provide separately or in the kit 200 for use with the candle blowing apparatus 100, as desired.

[0072] With reference to FIG. 12, the present disclosure further includes a method 300 for using the candle blowing apparatus 100. In a first step 302, the kit 200 for the candle blowing apparatus 200 may be provided. The kit 200 may including the following separate components: the main housing 102, the mouthpiece 108, the at least one filter cartridge 110 including at least one filter 112, and an ornamental endpiece 114, substantially as described hereinabove

[0073] The method 300 may have a second step 304 of connecting the mouthpiece 108 and at least one filter cartridge 110. In one embodiment, the tube 128 of the mouthpiece 108 may be inserted into the conduit 150 of the cartridge body 144. In another embodiment, the tube 128 may be inserted into the sealing sleeve 166 of the cartridge body 144 in the second step 304.

[0074] A third step 306 of the method 300 may include inserting the mouthpiece 108 and the at least one filter cartridge 110 into the main housing 102 and disposing the ornamental endpiece 114 on the main housing 102. The ornamental endpiece 114 may be pressed onto the tapered portion 116 of the main housing 102. [0075] The third step 106 may further include securing the mouthpiece 108 to the main housing 102 via the connecting means 132, 136. In one embodiment, the mouthpiece 108 may be snapped into the main housing 102 such that the male component 138 interacts with the female component 140 to removably secure the mouthpiece 108 to the main housing 102. In another embodiment, the mouthpiece 108 may be screwed into the main housing 102 via the corresponding threads 142. The candle blowing apparatus 100, upon assembly in this fashion, may define the air flow path from the mouthpiece 108 to the ornamental endpiece 114, for delivery of the gust of air to the candle.

[0076] The method 300 may have a fourth step 308 of selecting and affixing the ornamental endpiece 114 to the second end 106 of the main housing 102. The tapered portion 118 of the main housing 102 may be disposed in the tapered recess 122 of the ornamental endpiece 114.

[0077] A fifth step 310 of the method 300 may include an orienting of the candle blowing apparatus 100. The user may orient the candle blowing apparatus 100 such that the ornamental endpiece 114 is directed towards the candle on the cake, for example.

[0078] A sixth step 312 of the method 300 may include the user blowing the extinguishing gust of air toward the candle. The user may blow air into the mouthpiece 108. The air may flow through the tube 128 to the filter cartridge 110. The air may be filtered by the at least one filter 110 and exit the cartridge body 144. The air may pass through the tapered portion 118 of the main housing 102 and out the air outlet 120. From the air outlet 120, the air may pass through the ornamental endpiece 114 as the gust of air to extinguish the candle (shown in FIG. 1 ).

[0079] Advantageously, the candle blowing apparatus 100 may filter air blown at candles and remove substantially all germs or pathogens from the resulting gust of air. The candle blowing apparatus 100 features the removable filter cartridge 110 to allow for repeated hygienic uses of the apparatus 100. It is further beneficial that the candle blowing apparatus 100 allows for customization via an interchangeable ornamental endpiece 114, as described hereinabove. [0080] While certain representative embodiments and details have been shown for purposes of illustrating the invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure, which is further described in the following appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1 . A candle blowing apparatus, comprising:

a main housing having a first end and a second end;

a mouthpiece removably attached to the first end of the main housing;

a filter cartridge including at least one filter, the filter cartridge removably disposed within the main housing between the first end and the second end, and the filter cartridge in fluid communication with the mouthpiece; and

an ornamental endpiece disposed on the second end of the main housing and in fluid communication with the filter cartridge, and together with the mouthpiece and the filter cartridge defining an air flow path for delivery of an extinguishing gust of air to a candle.

2. The candle blowing apparatus of Claim 1 , wherein the ornamental endpiece is removably attached to the second end of the main housing.

3. The candle blowing apparatus of Claim 1 , wherein the mouthpiece has a hollow main body and a tube, the tube extending outwardly from the hollow main body.

4. The candle blowing apparatus of Claim 3, wherein the filter cartridge has a cartridge body, the cartridge body having a first end, a second end, and a conduit disposed on the first end, and the at least one filter disposed in the cartridge body.

5. The candle blowing apparatus of Claim 4, wherein the tube of the mouthpiece is disposed in the conduit of the filter cartridge.

6. The candle blowing apparatus of Claim 5, wherein sealing means is disposed adjacent to the conduit of the filter cartridge.

7. The candle blowing apparatus of Claim 6, wherein the sealing means forms a substantially fluid-tight seal between the at least one filter cartridge and the tube of the mouthpiece.

8. The candle blowing apparatus of Claim 7, wherein the sealing means is an 0- ring disposed between the conduit and the tube.

9. The candle blowing apparatus of Claim 7, wherein the sealing means is sleeve disposed over the conduit and the tube.

10. The candle blowing apparatus of Claim 1 , wherein the mouthpiece further includes first connection means disposed on an exterior surface of the hollow main body, and the main housing has second connection means disposed on an interior surface adjacent the first end, the first connection means cooperating with the second connection means to removable secure the mouthpiece to the main housing.

1 1 . The candle blowing apparatus of Claim 10, wherein the first connection means and the second connection means are one of cooperating annular beads and grooves and cooperating threads.

12. The candle blowing apparatus of Claim 1 1 , wherein the first connection means and the second connection means are the cooperating annular beads and grooves and secure the mouthpiece to the main housing via a press-fit or a friction fit.

13. The candle blowing apparatus of Claim 1 , wherein the main housing is tube shaped.

14. The candle blowing apparatus of Claim 1 , wherein the at least one filter is fabricated from a foam material having a filter grade of N95 or superior.

15. The candle blowing apparatus of Claim 1 , wherein at least one O-ring is disposed adjacent to the second end of the main body.

16. The candle blowing apparatus of Claim 15, wherein the ornamental endpiece is removably disposed on the second end of the main housing via a press fit or a friction fit and sealed with the main housing with the at least one O-ring.

17. A kit for a candle blowing apparatus, comprising:

a main housing having a first end and a second end;

a mouthpiece configured to be removably attached to the first end of the main housing;

at least one filter cartridge including at least one filter, the filter cartridge configured to be removably disposed within the main housing between the first end and the second end, and the filter cartridge in fluid communication with the mouthpiece; and

an ornamental endpiece configured to be removably attached to the second end of the main housing and in fluid communication with the filter cartridge, and together with the mouthpiece and the filter cartridge defining an air flow path for delivery of an extinguishing gust of air to a candle.

18. The kit of Claim 17, wherein the at least one filter cartridge includes a plurality of filter cartridges that are separately provided, and each configured to be individually disposed within the main housing.

19. A method of extinguishing celebratory or birthday candles, the method comprising the steps of:

providing a kit for a candle blowing apparatus, the kit including a main housing having a first end and a second end, a mouthpiece configured to be removably attached to the first end of the main housing, at least one filter cartridge including at least one filter, the filter cartridge configured to be removably disposed within the main housing between the first end and the second end, and the filter cartridge in fluid communication with the mouthpiece, and an ornamental endpiece configured to be removably attached to the second end of the main housing and in fluid communication with the filter cartridge, and together with the mouthpiece and the filter cartridge defining an air flow path for delivery of an extinguishing gust of air to a candle;

connecting the mouthpiece and at least one filter cartridge;

inserting the mouthpiece and the at least one filter cartridge assembly into the main housing, whereby the candle blowing apparatus is assembled;

orienting the candle blowing apparatus toward the candle; and

blowing through the mouthpiece to create the extinguishing gust of air and extinguish the candle in a hygienic manner.

20. The method of Claim 19, further comprising a step of selecting and affixing the ornamental endpiece to the second end of the main housing prior to the blowing through the mouthpiece to extinguish the candle.