WO2022096900A2 - Appareil de simulation de combustion - Google Patents

Appareil de simulation de combustion Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2022096900A2
WO2022096900A2 PCT/GB2021/052894 GB2021052894W WO2022096900A2 WO 2022096900 A2 WO2022096900 A2 WO 2022096900A2 GB 2021052894 W GB2021052894 W GB 2021052894W WO 2022096900 A2 WO2022096900 A2 WO 2022096900A2
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
assembly
light source
base
filter
light
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/GB2021/052894
Other languages
English (en)
Other versions
WO2022096900A3 (fr
Inventor
Zac MCMAHON
Original Assignee
Ck Fires Limited
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Ck Fires Limited filed Critical Ck Fires Limited
Publication of WO2022096900A2 publication Critical patent/WO2022096900A2/fr
Publication of WO2022096900A3 publication Critical patent/WO2022096900A3/fr

Links

Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24C—DOMESTIC STOVES OR RANGES ; DETAILS OF DOMESTIC STOVES OR RANGES, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
    • F24C7/00—Stoves or ranges heated by electric energy
    • F24C7/002—Stoves
    • F24C7/004—Stoves simulating flames
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24B—DOMESTIC STOVES OR RANGES FOR SOLID FUELS; IMPLEMENTS FOR USE IN CONNECTION WITH STOVES OR RANGES
    • F24B1/00—Stoves or ranges
    • F24B1/18—Stoves with open fires, e.g. fireplaces
    • F24B1/1808—Simulated fireplaces
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24C—DOMESTIC STOVES OR RANGES ; DETAILS OF DOMESTIC STOVES OR RANGES, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
    • F24C3/00—Stoves or ranges for gaseous fuels
    • F24C3/002—Stoves
    • F24C3/006—Stoves simulating flames

Definitions

  • the present invention concerns an apparatus for simulating combustion.
  • the present invention relates to an apparatus for simulating combustion in a heating appliance, such as an electric fire, that provides a realistic, dynamic and three-dimensional combustion effect.
  • Electric heating appliances such as electric fires (also known as electric fireplaces, electric stoves and electric heaters), are well-known alternatives to wood- and gas-burning fireplaces.
  • Known electric heating appliances comprise a heating unit and a flame effect simulator.
  • the heating unit operates to draw in air at ambient temperature and includes heating coils to increase the temperature of the air within the appliance.
  • the heated air i.e. at temperatures above ambient temperature, is then transferred out of the appliance and back into the room via a fan within the electric heating appliance.
  • Known flame effect simulators such as that described in United States patent no. US 4,965,707, include a light source, simulated effect means to simulate flames, simulated fire means to simulate a bed of combusting fuel, and a screen on which to view an image of the simulated flames.
  • the heating unit of such electric heating appliances is controllable, such that a user is able to turn the heater on and off, as well as adjust the temperature of the air that is emitted from the electric heating appliance.
  • the flame effect simulator of such electric heating appliances may be controllable, so that a user can turn the simulated flame effect on and off, or adjust the brightness of the simulated flame effect.
  • the heating unit and the flame effect simulator may be independently adjustable, for example so that the simulated flame can be viewed when the electric heating appliance is not required to produce heat.
  • the flame simulation system includes a projection backboard, simulated charcoal, and a light source projection device, with the light source projection device positioned in a top corner of the electric fire.
  • the light source projection device has a drive motor, a driving wheel, a transparent lens or mirror, a light emitting diode (LED) light board, a corrugated transparent cover, a flame forming plate, a reflector, a housing, and a housing cover.
  • the reflector is located between the LED light board and the transparent mirror.
  • the flame forming plate is positioned outside the corrugated cover.
  • the motor drives the wheel, causing the transparent mirror to rotate, and light rays, which penetrate through the corrugated transparent cover, are projected to the projection backboard and the simulated charcoal, so that a dynamic three-dimensional flame shape is formed.
  • United States patent publication no. US 2017/0328575 describes a lighting system for an electric fireplace.
  • the lighting system has front and rear projectors which are used to provide the appearance of burning logs within the fireplace.
  • the front and rear projectors each include a light source, which can be an LED array, and a spinner. Light projected from each of the projectors onto the logs forms a three-dimensional flame effect on the logs, with the rotation of the spinners providing a moving effect to the flames.
  • a further example of an electric fire which is designed to simulate a combustible fuel-burning fireplace is described in United States Patent publication no. US 2002/0168182.
  • a simulated firebox having a top, a bottom, a back and two sides is placed within the fireplace.
  • the fire simulation assembly includes a light source, a light randomiser, a light filter screen and a light diffuser.
  • the light randomiser includes a rotating hollow cylinder having openings through which light can pass.
  • the light filter screen has an opaque area and a coloured translucent area through which light from the light randomiser can pass onto the back of the light diffuser screen.
  • the light diffuser screen has a partially translucent surface on which flames are projected and are visible from the front of the fireplace.
  • the rotating hollow cylinder provides a moving appearance to the flames.
  • each one of the above examples suffers, inter alia, from two distinct problems: the moving parts, which are responsible for the moving effect of the flames, (i) degrade over time and can require replacement on a periodic basis, and (ii) cause a mechanical noise to be produced which detracts from the desired effect of a real fire.
  • the moving parts which are responsible for the moving effect of the flames, (i) degrade over time and can require replacement on a periodic basis, and (ii) cause a mechanical noise to be produced which detracts from the desired effect of a real fire.
  • an apparatus for simulating combustion comprising: a base assembly; an upper assembly; and a semi-reflective screen positioned between the base assembly and the upper assembly; wherein the base assembly comprises: a first light source; a first base filter comprising a sheet shaped into a series of ridges and troughs, and having a plurality of apertures through which light from the first light source can be transmitted; a second base filter comprising a partially transparent sheet; and an opaque base; wherein the upper assembly comprises: a second light source; a first upper filter comprising a sheet shaped into a series of ridges and troughs, and having a plurality of apertures through which light from the second light source can be transmitted; a second upper filter comprising a partially transparent sheet; and an opaque upper wall; and wherein the base assembly and the upper assembly are configured such that light emitted from the first light source and the second light source is transmitted through the base assembly and the upper assembly
  • the semi-reflective screen is configured to reflect light emitted from the second light source.
  • the semi-reflective screen may reflect light emitted from the second light source whilst allowing light from the first light source to be transmitted.
  • the semi-reflective screen may be positioned at an angle of between 30 and 50 degrees to horizontal, preferably between 35 to 55 degrees to horizontal, and may be angled towards the rear of the apparatus. This arrangement is particularly effective in providing a three-dimensional appearance to the transmitted and reflected light, and thus the combustion effect.
  • the semi-reflective screen may be composed of a glass or acrylic material.
  • the material may be a toughened clear float glass, a clear pyrolytic coated glass (e.g. a clear glass coated with a metal oxide applied in a pyrolytic process), or a clear acrylic.
  • the material is a clear float glass or a CRYLON® or similar extruded acrylic material.
  • the apparatus may further comprise a simulated fuel positioned between the semi-reflective screen and the base assembly such that light emitted from the first light source and the second light source is transmitted through the base assembly and the upper assembly to produce a combustion effect on and around the simulated fuel.
  • the simulated fuel may be positioned in a central section of the apparatus above the base assembly, with the upper assembly and semi-reflective screen positioned over it.
  • the semi-reflective screen may be positioned above the simulated fuel and angled from a front section of the base assembly to an upper section of the rear of the apparatus and/or a rear section of the upper assembly.
  • the simulated fuel may be decorative and may be selected from the group consisting of wood logs, charcoal, pebbles, stones, glass chippings, and slate chippings.
  • the simulated fuel may be composed of any material, since it is not subjected to any heating.
  • the simulated fuel is composed of a ceramic material. The presence of the simulated fuel gives the realistic impression that the particular fuel is combusting within the apparatus.
  • At least one of the first light source and the second light source comprises a light emitting diode (LED) array.
  • each one of the first light source and the second light source comprises an LED array.
  • Each LED of the light emitting diode array may be assignable, and may be assignable to display an animation.
  • the animation is designed to illuminate the apparatus with the desired combustion effect and may be a preprogrammed animation or a customisable animation.
  • the animation may vary depending on the assembly in which it is projected by the light sources, since the three-dimensional effect is a combination of the projections from the different perfectives of each assembly, i.e. the animation in the base assembly may be different to the animation in the upper assembly, since it is the combination effect of both assemblies that is important.
  • the animation may also be the same in each assembly.
  • the first base filter and the first upper filter each comprise a sheet shaped into a series of ridges and troughs.
  • the sheet may be shaped into a series of parallel ridges and troughs, and, in a preferred embodiment, may be provided as a corrugated or concertinaed sheet.
  • a corrugated sheet may have a sinuous or wavelike structure with rounded ridges and troughs, whereas a concertinaed sheet may provide a zigzag-like structure with angular ridges and troughs.
  • the first base filter and the first upper filter each comprise a concertinaed sheet.
  • the first base filter and the first upper filter may each be provided as a concertinaed sheet in which the average period between ridges of the concertina is from 2 to 10 mm, such as 3 to 7 mm, preferably about 5 mm, and the average amplitude of the ridges and troughs is from 5 to 15 mm, such as 8 to 12 mm, preferably about
  • the first base filter and the first upper filter may be composed of the same or different materials.
  • Each filter may be composed of a plastic (e.g. an acrylic), metal or alloy material.
  • a steel alloy which may or may not be electrolytically plated (e.g. Zintec).
  • the first base filter and the first upper filter may be composed of a plastic or acrylic material, since these materials provide improved light dissipation effects.
  • the first filters may have a constant thickness of 0.5 to 5 mm, such as 0.5 to 3 mm, preferably 0.7 to 1.2 mm.
  • the first base filter and the first upper filter are each provided with a plurality of apertures through which light from the respective light sources can be transmitted.
  • Such apertures may be shaped to simulate a specific combustion effect, such as burning flames and/or burning embers.
  • the aperture shapes may differ between the assemblies so as to simulate different combustion effects from each assembly.
  • the plurality of apertures in the first upper filter are flame-shaped.
  • the plurality of apertures in the first base filter may also be flame-shaped, since this provides both a flame effect where the light is not projected onto a simulated fuel, and a burning ember effect where the light is projected onto and distorted by a simulated fuel.
  • the apparatus comprises a second base filter and a second upper filter, wherein each may be composed of an extruded plastic material having light scattering properties.
  • the extruded plastic material may contain a plurality of light-scattering inclusions.
  • the lightscattering inclusions may be an inherent structural characteristic of the extruded plastic material, and may provide defined areas of differing light transparency properties.
  • the extruded plastic material may be a transparent sheet material with a prism structure that spreads/diffuses light into two directions. The prisms may be straight or diagonal depending on the combustion effect that is to be produced.
  • the second filters may have a constant thickness of 2 to 6 mm, preferably 3 to 5 mm.
  • the extruded plastic material is a clear Salbex pressed PVC sheet (sometimes referred to as Telbex) sold by PAR Group.
  • the benefit of employing this type of second filter is that it can focus and enhance the light projected through the first filters.
  • the opaque base and the opaque upper wall may each be composed of a glass or plastic material.
  • the material may be a clear or coloured cast polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA).
  • Particularly preferred materials include an extruded PMMA sheet sold under the name Polycasa Crylux Opal Frost Antarctic White 2000 ARD (Opal Frost) and an extruded PMMA sheet sold under the name Polycasa Crylux Seville Orange Frost 1307 ARD (Seville Orange Frost) by Pyramid Display Plastics.
  • the opaque base and the opaque upper wall are each composed of the same material, which may have a constant thickness of 2 to 6 mm, such as 3 to 5 mm, preferably about 3 mm.
  • the opaque base and the opaque upper wall may each have a refractive index of 1.40 to 1.70 (according to ISO 489:1999), preferably 1.45 to 1.55, and a turbidity of 0.5 to 5% (according to ISO 14782), preferably 0.5 to 2.5%.
  • the apparatus further comprises a rear wall assembly, wherein the rear wall assembly comprises: a third light source; a first wall filter comprising a sheet shaped into a series of ridges and troughs, and having a plurality of apertures through which light from the third light source can be transmitted; a second wall filter comprising a partially transparent sheet; and an opaque rear wall; and wherein the base assembly, the upper assembly and the rear wall assembly are configured such that light emitted from the first light source, the second light source and the third light source is transmitted through the base assembly, the upper assembly and the rear wall assembly to produce a combustion effect within the apparatus.
  • the rear wall assembly comprises: a third light source; a first wall filter comprising a sheet shaped into a series of ridges and troughs, and having a plurality of apertures through which light from the third light source can be transmitted; a second wall filter comprising a partially transparent sheet; and an opaque rear wall; and wherein the base assembly, the upper assembly and the rear wall assembly are configured such that light
  • the additional presence of the rear wall assembly further enhances the combustion effect within the apparatus by providing a truly realistic, dynamic, combustion effect.
  • the synergy of the base assembly, upper assembly, and semi-reflective screen, by way of the respective light sources, filters and opaque screens is such that a dynamic, three-dimensional representation is created in an entirely silent manner.
  • the construction of the rear wall assembly may be the same as the base assembly and/or the upper assembly.
  • the components of the rear wall assembly may have any of the features described in relation to the corresponding components of the base assembly and the upper assembly.
  • the third light source, the first wall filter, the second wall filter and the opaque rear wall may have the same physical features, such as materials and dimensions, as the first and second light sources, the first base filter and the first upper filter, the second base filter and the second upper filter, and the opaque base and opaque upper wall, respectively.
  • the rear wall assembly may be positioned behind the base assembly and the upper assembly, and in front of the semi-reflective screen.
  • the semi-reflective screen may be angled towards the rear assembly, and light transmitted by the rear assembly may be transmitted through the semi-reflective screen, and not reflected by it, to the viewer.
  • the first wall filter may comprise a concertinaed sheet having a plurality of apertures through which light from the third light source can be transmitted.
  • the plurality of apertures in the first upper filter are preferably flame-shaped.
  • the second wall filter may be printed on a surface with a matrix of light-blocking dots.
  • the dots may successively increase in volume from one line of the matrix to the next.
  • a dot matrix pattern may be printed onto a surface of the second wall filter, in which the pattern is a grid of regularly-spaced dots in two directions. In one of the directions, the dots may successively increase in volume from one line of dots to the next, and may progress from an area having no dots to an area where the dots essentially create a solid area.
  • the highest volume dots may be located in the top row of the matrix pattern and then fade towards the bottom row of dots, whereby the fading dot matrix pattern helps to block out light spillage.
  • light emitted from the first light source is projected onto the opaque base to provide the desired combustion effect.
  • This light Is viewed by the viewer through the semi-reflective screen, i.e. this light is transmitted by the semi-reflective screen and not reflected by it.
  • light emitted from the third light source in use, is projected onto the opaque rear wall to provide the desired combustion effect.
  • This light is also viewed by the viewer through the semi-reflective screen, since it is not reflected by it.
  • light emitted from the second light source, in use is projected onto the opaque upper wall, and is then reflected forwards by the semi-reflective screen to the viewer to provide the desired combustion effect.
  • the combination of these optical effects is a realistic, dynamic, three- dimensional combustion effect within the apparatus.
  • the opaque base of the base assembly, the opaque rear wall of the rear wall assembly, when present, and the opaque upper wall of the upper assembly may define an internal chamber in the apparatus in which the semi-reflective screen is positioned.
  • the simulated fuel may also be positioned in the internal chamber below the semi-reflective screen.
  • a heating appliance comprising an electric heating assembly and an apparatus for simulating combustion according to the first aspect of the invention.
  • the apparatus for simulating combustion may have any of the features of the apparatus described in relation to the first aspect of the invention, and any combination of those features.
  • the heating appliance is preferably an electric fire, which may have an output of up to 1000W or 1500W.
  • an apparatus for simulating combustion which has the same features as the apparatus for simulating combustion according to the first aspect of the invention, but wherein the base assembly is omitted.
  • the apparatus comprises: an upper assembly; and a semi-reflective screen positioned below the upper assembly; wherein the upper assembly comprises: a light source; a first upper filter comprising a sheet shaped into a series of ridges and troughs, and having a plurality of apertures through which light from the light source can be transmitted; a second upper filter comprising a partially transparent sheet; and an opaque upper wall; and wherein the upper assembly is configured such that light emitted from the light source is reflected by the semi-reflective screen to produce a combustion effect within the apparatus.
  • the upper assembly and the semi-reflective screen cooperate to create the impression of a realistic, dynamic combustion effect within the apparatus without any moving parts.
  • the apparatus for simulating combustion of the third aspect of the invention may have any of the features of the apparatus described in relation to the first aspect of the invention, and any combination of those features. It may also form part of a heating appliance as described in relation to the second aspect of the invention.
  • Figure 1 is a perspective view of a heating appliance according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 2 is a schematic representation of an apparatus for simulating combustion according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 3a is an exploded perspective view of an apparatus for simulating combustion according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 3b is an exploded front view of an apparatus for simulating combustion according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 3c is an exploded side view of an apparatus for simulating combustion according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 4 is a perspective view of an LED array and a filter for use in an apparatus for simulating combustion according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 5 is a dot matrix print pattern for use in an apparatus for simulating combustion according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • the electric fire 1 has an external housing defined by an upper panel 2, two side panels 3, 4, a rear panel (not shown), a base panel 5 and a front panel 6.
  • the front panel comprises a non-transparent surrounding section 6a, which provides a structural connection to the adjacent panels, and a transparent window 6b, through which the simulated combustion effect can be viewed.
  • the electric fire 1 further comprises an electric heating unit 7 in an upper section of the electric fire 1.
  • the electric heating unit 7 may provide a heat output of up to 1000W or 1500W.
  • an apparatus for simulating combustion (not fully shown in Figure 1), which comprises a semi-reflective screen 8 positioned over a simulated fuel 9, in this case a set of logs.
  • the simulated fuel 9 is decorative and is not subjected to any heat generated by the electric heating unit 7, which means that it can be composed of any suitable material.
  • the transparent window 6b may be composed of a glass material.
  • the optical properties of the glass material may be tailored to enhance the viewing characteristics of the simulated combustion effect.
  • a glass material may be employed which minimises luminous surface reflections, thereby avoiding glare that distorts the appearance of the combustion effect to the viewer.
  • the glass material may also have high-level transmission properties in the visible spectrum, meaning that a high proportion of light is transmitted through the glass from the combustion simulation apparatus.
  • the glass material may also have high impact and scratch resistance properties, by way of chemical toughening processes and/or chemical coating.
  • a preferred example of a glass material that can used as the transparent viewing window 6b is that produced and sold by Schott AG under the trade name Conturan®. A particularly preferred product in this series of products is Conturan Magic®.
  • the heating unit 7 is operable to generate heat and may have a motor and a fan (not shown).
  • the motor may be configured to increase the temperature of air that is drawn into the electric fire 1 and the fan may be configured to push the heated air out of the electric fire 1, as is known in the art.
  • the electric fire 1 may also compromise a control unit (not shown) that is configured to receive signals from an external control unit (not shown), for example a temperature sensor or thermostat.
  • the control unit may be further configured to receive signals from a user control panel or interface (not shown) that is provided on the electric fire 10.
  • the control unit may also be configured to receive signals from a remote device (not shown), such as a handheld remote control or a client device (e.g. mobile telephone, personal computer or tablet), either directly (e.g. via infrared or Bluetooth Low Energy technology) or by way of a remote server (e.g. a cloud-based server) and/or local network (e.g. via Wi-Fi technology).
  • the client device may have an associated application that allows the client to remotely change the settings of the electric fire 1, whether that be heating settings, combustion simulation effects or both.
  • the application may have compatibility with other smart devices and applications, such as Amazon Alexa and Google Home, for voice-activated control.
  • the combustion simulating apparatus 10 comprises three assemblies: a base assembly 11a, 12a, 13a, 14a; a rear wall assembly lib, 12b, 13b, 14b; and an upper assembly 11c, 12c, 13c, 14c.
  • Each assembly comprises a light source 11a, lib, 11c, which may be an LED array of assignable LEDs, a filter comprising a sheet shaped into a series of parallel ridges and troughs 12a, 12b, 12c, a second filter comprising a partially transparent sheet 13a, 13b, 13c, which may possess light diffusion properties, and an opaque screen 14a, 14b, 14c, onto which light from the respective light sources may be projected.
  • the apparatus further comprises a semi-reflective screen 8, which is positioned over a simulated fuel 9.
  • the first light source 11a In the case of the base assembly, light is generated by the first light source 11a, in use, which is oriented in such a way as to project the light upwards towards the opaque base 14a.
  • the first light source 11a may be positioned in a horizontal plane with the light source facing upwards.
  • the first light source 11a may convey light in varying colours and intensities in the form of an animation which mimics the desired combustion effect.
  • the first base filter 12a which comprises a sheet shaped into a series of parallel ridges and troughs, such as a concertinaed sheet.
  • the first base filter 12a is impervious to light with the exception of a plurality of apertures (not shown in Figure 2), through which light from the first light source 11a may be transmitted.
  • the physical structure of the first base filter 12a i.e. the series of parallel ridges and troughs, together with the plurality of apertures, has the effect of creating a series of shadows and shapes in the transmitted light, and gives the appearance that the projected light is moving. Due to the varying optical effects from the first light source 11a and the three-dimensional shape of the apertures, the first base filter 12a splits the light so that dynamic shapes, such as flames, are created that have no definitive form.
  • the moving split and scattered light then passes through the second base filter 13a which comprises a partially transparent sheet.
  • the optical properties of the second base filter 13a are such that it corrects and defines certain element shapes and intensities of the projected light.
  • the second base filter 13a may possess light scattering properties that, due to the already split and scattered light transmitted through the first base filter 12a, then corrects the projected light so that certain elements are focused onto the opaque base 14a.
  • the second base filter 13a is composed of a clear Salbex pressed PVC sheet (sometimes referred to as Telbex) sold by PAR Group, which is a transparent sheet material having a prism structure that spreads/diffuses light into two directions.
  • the opaque base 14a functions as a screen onto which light is projected. Due to the varying light effects created by the first light source 11a, the three-dimensional structure of the first base filter 12a and its associated apertures, and the corrective light scattering effects of the second base filter 13a, a moving combustion effect is presented on opaque base 14a with varying brightness and colouring. Notably, this is achieved by varying the light projected by the first light source 11a, and without any moving parts. The light projected onto opaque base 14a can be seen by a viewer through the semi-reflective screen 8. In the example illustrated in Figure 2, a simulated fuel 9 is positioned on top of opaque base 14a.
  • the light projected onto opaque base 14a provides a combustion effect from beneath the simulated fuel 9, which can present on or around the simulated fuel as flames or burning embers.
  • the simulated fuel 9 may be any type of decorative fuel, such as a set of wooden logs, charcoal, stones, pebbles, glass chippings, or slate chippings.
  • the material used for the simulated fuel 9 is not limited in the sense that it is not subjected to any heat in applications with an accompanying heating unit. This is because the combustion simulation apparatus 10 is separate to any such heating units. Nevertheless, a preferred material for the simulated fuel 9 is a ceramic. In a preferred embodiment, the simulated fuel 9 is a decorative set of ceramic logs.
  • the rear wall assembly lib, 12b, 13b, 14b has the same features as the base assembly 11a, 12a, 13a, 14a and functions in the same way.
  • the third light source lib corresponds to the first light source 11a
  • the first base filter 12a corresponds to the first wall filter 12b
  • the second base filter 13a corresponds to the second wall filter 13b
  • the opaque rear wall 14b corresponds to the opaque base 14a.
  • the upper assembly 11c, 12c, 13c, 14c has the same features as the base assembly 11a, 12a, 13a, 14a and the rear wall assembly lib, 12b, 13b, 14b, and functions in the same way.
  • the main difference with the upper assembly 11c, 12c, 13c, 14c is that light projected from the second light source 11c, through the first upper filter 12c and the second upper filter 13c onto the opaque upper wall 14c, is viewed by the viewer in the semi-reflective screen s.
  • the semi- reflective screen 8 reflects the light from the opaque upper wall 14c rather than transmitting it.
  • the semi-reflective screen 8 is angled towards the rear wall assembly lib, 12b, 13b, 14b.
  • the semi-reflective screen 8 is angled towards the rear wall assembly lib, 12b, 13b, 14b from a front section of the base assembly 11c, 12c, 13c, 14c, meeting the rear wall assembly lib, 12b, 13b, 14b at an upper section thereof.
  • the semi-reflective screen 8 may be positioned at an angle of 35 to 45 degrees to horizontal. This type of angle is particularly effective for reflecting light from the upper assembly 11c, 12c, 13c, 14c to a viewer in front of the apparatus 10 or electric fire 1.
  • the semi-reflective screen 8 has an angled section 8a representing the main viewing area of the apparatus and a non-angled section 8b, such as a vertical section, which is positioned at a lower end of the screen 8 adjacent to the base assembly 11c, 12c, 13c, 14c and the simulated fuel 9.
  • the semi-reflective screen 8 is a substantially flat screen in order to uniformly reflect light from the upper assembly 11c, 12c, 13c, 14c; however, in other embodiments, it may have a curved structure in order to reflect and focus the light in order to achieve a particularvisual perspective for the viewer.
  • each one of the first light source 11a, the third light source lib and the second light source 11c comprises LED arrays comprising 256 RGB colour assignable LEDs.
  • the LEDs are in an 8 x 32 grid format.
  • each assembly comprises two 256 RGB colour assignable LED arrays which are configured to display an animation that provides the desired combustion effect.
  • the first light source 11a and the second light source 11c have two such LED arrays in an end-to-end arrangement, thereby creating an 8 x 64 grid
  • the third light source lib has two such LED arrays in a side-by-side arrangement, thereby creating a 16 x 32 grid.
  • the base assembly 11a, 12a, 13a, 14a is held in the apparatus 10 by bracket 15, which has a lower part 15a and an upper part 15b.
  • bracket 15 which has a lower part 15a and an upper part 15b.
  • the rear assembly lib, 12b, 13b, 14b is held by bracket 16
  • the upper assembly 11c, 12c, 13c, 14c is held in position by bracket 18.
  • the first wall filter 12b is a concertinaed sheet which runs along the entire length of the rear wall assembly. At varying locations of the first wall filter 12b are apertures 17 extending through the entire sheet such that light from the second light source lib can be transmitted. The apertures 17 are flame-shaped in order to provide a flickering flame appearance to the combustion effect. Similarly, the first upper filter 12c and the first base filter 12a are also concertinaed sheets with a plurality of flame-shaped apertures 17. Other types of aperture shapes can be used depending on the type of combustion effect desired.
  • the rear wall assembly lib, 12b, 13b, 14b is presented in a substantially vertical orientation such that light from the assembly is projected forwards towards the viewer.
  • the base assembly 11a, 12a, 13a, 14a is oriented in a substantially horizontal manner with the assembly facing upwards such that light from the assembly is projected up towards the simulated fuel 9.
  • the upper assembly 11c, 12c, 13c, 14c is also presented in a substantially horizontal orientation, but faces downwards such that light from the assembly is projected down onto the semi-reflective screen 8.
  • the second upper filter 13c and the opaque upper wall 14c are angled slightly towards the rear assembly in bracket 18 compared to the second light source 11c and the first upper filter 12c.
  • the simulated fuel 9 is positioned within a chamber created by the semi-reflective screen 8, the opaque base 14a and the opaque rear wall 14b.
  • the third light source lib and the first wall filter 12b are positioned behind the simulated fuel 9 such that the projected light appears on and around the simulated fuel 9.
  • the first light source 11a and the first base filter 12a are positioned under the simulated fuel 9, and the second light source 11c and the first upper filter 12c are positioned above the simulated fuel 9 for the same reason.
  • Figure 4 shows a representation of the second light source lib and the first wall filter 12b according to the invention. The features of these components are the same as those of the corresponding components in the base assembly and the upper assembly.
  • an LED array of the third light source lib which comprises two 8 x 32 LED arrays. Each array has 256 individual RGB colour LEDs 19, each of which is assignable, thereby giving a total of 512 LEDs.
  • the LED arrays are connected to a control unit (not shown), which runs an animation of random colours associated with a burning fire.
  • the animation may be pre-programmed or may be customisable. Indeed, the apparatus may be configured with a selection of different animations, each of which provides a different type of burning effect, such as a flame effect, a burning ember, an aurora effect and/or a colour spectrum effect.
  • the animation may also be customisable in terms of the desired brightness and speed of the burning effect.
  • the first wall filter 12b has the form of a concertinaed sheet. Extending through the sheet are a series of flame-shaped apertures 17.
  • the apertures 17 take various forms that mimic the different sizes and shapes of flames in a natural fire.
  • the changing light effects e.g. brightness and colouring
  • the animated light source lib not shown in Figure 4
  • the same result is achieved in the same manner by the first base filter 12a and the first upper filter 12c, together with their respective light sources 11a, 11c.
  • the second base filter 13a, the second wall filter 13b and the second upper filter 13c each comprise a partially transparent sheet.
  • the partially transparent sheets have the effect of correcting light scattering effects of the respective first filters 12a, 12b and 12c and focus certain elements onto the respective opaque screens 14a, 14b and 14c.
  • the second wall filter 13b may have a pattern printed on its surface. For example, as shown in Figure 5, a dot matrix pattern 20 is applied to its surface which comprises a grid of lightblocking dots 21.
  • the dots 21 are presented in a grid format in which the dots progress from lines of lower volume dots 21a to dots of progressively larger volumes 21b, 21c, until the dots 21d are of a volume that blocks almost all light from passing through the filter.
  • This type of pattern has the advantageous effect of applying a fading effect to the projected light.
  • the dots 21d of largest volume are provided at the top end of the filter and progressively fade in volume downwards towards the lower volume dots 21c, 21b and 21a.
  • the lower volume of dots towards the bottom of the dot matrix pattern creates a fading effect.
  • Other printed patterns and shapes may be used to tailor the combustion effect.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Illuminated Signs And Luminous Advertising (AREA)
  • Non-Portable Lighting Devices Or Systems Thereof (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un appareil de simulation de combustion, par exemple dans un appareil de chauffage, qui comprend un ensemble base, un ensemble supérieur et un écran semi-réfléchissant positionné entre l'ensemble base et l'ensemble supérieur. L'ensemble base comprend une première source de lumière, un premier filtre de base comprenant une feuille façonnée en une série de crêtes et de creux, et ayant une pluralité d'orifices à travers lesquels la lumière provenant de la première source de lumière peut être transmise, un second filtre de base comprenant une feuille partiellement transparente, et une base opaque. L'ensemble supérieur comprend une seconde source de lumière, un premier filtre supérieur comprenant une feuille façonnée en une série de crêtes et de creux, et ayant une pluralité d'orifices à travers lesquels la lumière provenant de la seconde source de lumière peut être transmise, un second filtre supérieur comprenant une feuille partiellement transparente, et une paroi supérieure opaque. L'ensemble base et l'ensemble supérieur sont conçus de telle sorte que la lumière émise par la première source de lumière et la seconde source de lumière est transmise à travers l'ensemble base et l'ensemble supérieur pour produire un effet de combustion à l'intérieur de l'appareil.
PCT/GB2021/052894 2020-11-09 2021-11-09 Appareil de simulation de combustion WO2022096900A2 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB2017644.2 2020-11-09
GB2017644.2A GB2602618B (en) 2020-11-09 2020-11-09 Apparatus for simulating combustion

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2022096900A2 true WO2022096900A2 (fr) 2022-05-12
WO2022096900A3 WO2022096900A3 (fr) 2022-07-21

Family

ID=74046288

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/GB2021/052894 WO2022096900A2 (fr) 2020-11-09 2021-11-09 Appareil de simulation de combustion

Country Status (2)

Country Link
GB (1) GB2602618B (fr)
WO (1) WO2022096900A2 (fr)

Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4965707A (en) 1989-02-10 1990-10-23 Basic Engineering Ltd. Apparatus for simulating flames
US20020168182A1 (en) 1999-01-14 2002-11-14 Cfm Majestic Inc. Electric fireplace with light randomizer, filter and diffuser screen
US20170328575A1 (en) 2016-05-10 2017-11-16 Twin-Star International, Inc. Electric fireplace lighting system
CN109973913A (zh) 2019-04-03 2019-07-05 宁波先锋电器制造有限公司 一种3d火焰仿真系统和电壁炉

Family Cites Families (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB272362A (en) * 1925-12-14 1927-06-14 John Charles White Improvements in imitation fires
GB272836A (en) * 1925-12-14 1927-06-13 John Charles White Improvements in imitation fires
FR776060A (fr) * 1934-07-17 1935-01-16 Radiateur électrique avec imitation de feu naturel
GB957591A (en) * 1962-07-19 1964-05-06 Frost & Company Ltd H Improvements relating to electric illumination devices
GB1113209A (en) * 1965-09-21 1968-05-08 Berrys Elect Magicoal Ltd Improvements in or relating to simulated fires
US6944982B2 (en) * 2002-09-27 2005-09-20 Napoloen Systems And Developments Inc. Flame simulating apparatus
CN2802635Y (zh) * 2005-07-18 2006-08-02 王竹宏 仿真火焰制造装置
GB2444074B (en) * 2006-11-24 2009-11-18 Basic Holdings Simulated electric fire having a light source generating multiple colours
GB2459923B (en) * 2008-05-13 2013-01-02 Lfl Group Ltd Visual flame effect

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4965707A (en) 1989-02-10 1990-10-23 Basic Engineering Ltd. Apparatus for simulating flames
US20020168182A1 (en) 1999-01-14 2002-11-14 Cfm Majestic Inc. Electric fireplace with light randomizer, filter and diffuser screen
US20170328575A1 (en) 2016-05-10 2017-11-16 Twin-Star International, Inc. Electric fireplace lighting system
CN109973913A (zh) 2019-04-03 2019-07-05 宁波先锋电器制造有限公司 一种3d火焰仿真系统和电壁炉

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
GB2602618B (en) 2023-02-01
GB2602618A (en) 2022-07-13
GB202017644D0 (en) 2020-12-23
WO2022096900A3 (fr) 2022-07-21

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
CA3008631C (fr) Appareil simulant la flamme destine a simuler les foyers comportant un systeme d'eclairage reflechissant
US7080472B2 (en) Flame simulating apparatus
CA2295459C (fr) Foyer electrique
EP0897514B1 (fr) Agencement simulant des flammes.
CA2552708C (fr) Appareil et methode pour simuler les effets de la combustion dans un foyer
US20080138050A1 (en) Topdown simulated flame
EP1347243A1 (fr) Ensemble simulant des flammes
US20030156828A1 (en) Fireplace with simulated flame
EP1684017A2 (fr) Agencement simulant des flammes
US11022262B2 (en) 3D flame projection system and fireplace using the same
GB2240171A (en) Appliance with decorative fire effect
US11519576B2 (en) Flame simulating assembly for simulated fireplaces including a reflecting light system
GB2391614A (en) Flame simulating apparatus with a laminated lens and ember simulation
WO2022096900A2 (fr) Appareil de simulation de combustion
CN2800131Y (zh) 带彩色火焰的电壁炉
GB2220060A (en) Simulated fire effect
US11920747B2 (en) Flame simulating assembly for simulated fireplaces including a reflecting light system
GB2371854A (en) Simulated solid fuel bed for an electric fireplace.
CA3126537A1 (fr) Ensemble de simulation de flamme pour un faux foyer, y compris un systeme de reflexion de la lumiere
AU755135B2 (en) An assembly for producing an illusionary effect

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase

Ref document number: 21827402

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A2