U.S. patent application number 09/767153 was filed with the patent office on 2001-05-24 for utility lighter platform.
This patent application is currently assigned to BIC Corporation. Invention is credited to Adams, Paul, Ferrara, Daniel, Tubby, Brian.
Application Number | 20010001705 09/767153 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 27120649 |
Filed Date | 2001-05-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20010001705 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ferrara, Daniel ; et
al. |
May 24, 2001 |
Utility lighter platform
Abstract
The present invention relates to a utility lighter platform
which includes a lighting mechanism configured to selectively
ignite fuel supplied from a fuel supply container, and a frame
configured to operatively house the lighting mechanism and
configured to receive an outer shell thereon. The frame includes a
fuel supply container housing structure configured to hold a fuel
supply container at a first end of the frame and an insulating cap
holding structure configured to receive an insulating cap at a
second end of the frame and configured to house a nozzle
operatively connected to the fuel supply. The frame also includes
an ignitor assembly holding structure configured to house an
ignitor assembly, and a trigger holding structure configured to
operatively hold a trigger stem with which to activate the ignitor
assembly and to release fuel from the fuel supply in order to
ignite fuel received at the nozzle.
Inventors: |
Ferrara, Daniel; (Bantam,
CT) ; Tubby, Brian; (Milford, CT) ; Adams,
Paul; (Monroe, CT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
PENNIE & EDMONDS LLP
1667 K STREET NW
SUITE 1000
WASHINGTON
DC
20006
|
Assignee: |
BIC Corporation
|
Family ID: |
27120649 |
Appl. No.: |
09/767153 |
Filed: |
January 23, 2001 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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09767153 |
Jan 23, 2001 |
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09239807 |
Jan 29, 1999 |
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09239807 |
Jan 29, 1999 |
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08787399 |
Jan 22, 1997 |
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5934895 |
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09239807 |
Jan 29, 1999 |
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08917134 |
Aug 25, 1997 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
431/153 ;
431/255; 431/266; 431/343; 431/344 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F23Q 2/287 20130101;
C10L 11/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
431/153 ;
431/255; 431/266; 431/343; 431/344 |
International
Class: |
F23D 011/36; F23Q
002/16; F23Q 007/12; F23Q 003/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A utility lighter platform comprising: a fuel supply container
holding fuel therein; a valve actuator associated with the fuel
supply container for selectively releasing fuel therefrom; an
ignitor assembly configured to generate a spark to ignite the
released fuel; and a frame configured to operatively house the fuel
supply container, the valve actuator, and the ignitor assembly and
further configured to receive one of a first outer shell having a
first shape to cover a portion of the frame and a second outer
shell having a second shape to cover the portion of the frame,
wherein the first shape differs from the second shape.
2. The utility lighter platform of claim 1 further comprises a
trigger assembly configured to activate the valve actuator and the
ignitor assembly.
3. The utility lighter platform of claim 2 wherein the frame is
further configured to house a portion of the trigger.
4. The utility lighter platform of claim 2 further comprising a
biased pivoting member operatively associated with the trigger
assembly and the ignitor assembly for activating at least the
ignitor assembly when the trigger is moved toward the valve
actuator.
5. The utility lighter platform of claim 4 wherein the frame is
further configured to operatively house the biased pivoting
member.
6. The utility lighter platform according to claim 2 further
comprising a latch stem receiving structure configured to receive a
latch stem which prevents operative movement of the trigger.
7. The utility lighter platform according to claim 6 wherein the
latch stem receiving structure comprises at least one corresponding
shaped protruding member in order to securely hold the latch
stem.
8. The utility lighter platform according to claim 6 wherein the
latch stem comprises at least one corresponding shaped protruding
member in order to securely hold the latch stem receiving
structure.
9. The utility lighter platform according to claim 6 wherein the
latch stem includes a shank portion adapted to receive a cover.
10. The utility lighter platform of claim 1 wherein at least a
portion of the frame has a lattice structure.
11. The utility lighter platform of claim 1 wherein the frame
comprises at least one member.
12. A utility lighter frame comprising: a fuel supply container
housing structure configured to hold a fuel supply container; an
ignitor assembly holding structure configured to house an ignitor
assembly; and a trigger holding structure configured to hold a
trigger stem with which to activate the ignitor assembly and to
release fuel from the fuel supply, wherein the frame has a lattice
structure and is further configured to receive an outer shell to
cover a portion of the frame.
13. The utility lighter frame of claim 12 wherein the fuel supply
container housing structure comprises a plurality of resilient
protruding members, each protruding member deflecting outward when
the fuel supply container is inserted and flexing inward to
securely hold the fuel supply container.
14. The utility lighter frame according to claim 12 further
comprising a latch stem receiving structure configured to receive a
latch stem which prevents operative movement of the trigger.
15. The utility lighter frame according to claim 14 wherein the
latch stem receiving structure comprises at least one corresponding
shaped protruding member in order to securely hold the latch
stem.
16. The utility lighter frame according to claim 14 wherein the
latch stem comprises at least one corresponding shaped protruding
member in order to securely hold the latch stem receiving
structure.
17. The utility lighter frame according to claim 14 wherein the
latch stem includes a shank portion adapted to receive a cover.
18. The utility lighter frame according to claim 12 wherein the
ignitor assembly holding structure comprises at least one recess
and one protruding portion for securely housing the ignitor
assembly.
19. The utility lighter frame according to claim 12 wherein the
trigger holding structure comprises a pair of bars spaced apart
from each other to operatively receive the trigger.
20. The utility lighter frame according to claim 12 further
comprising an insulating cap holding structure configured to
receive an insulating cap and configured to house a nozzle
operatively connected to the fuel supply.
21. The utility lighter frame according to claim 20 wherein the
insulating cap holding structure comprises a semi-cylindrically
shaped body defining a hollow center therein to receive the
nozzle.
22. The utility lighter frame according to claim 20 further
including a wand receiving structure configured to receive an
electrically conductive wand.
23. The utility lighter frame according to claim 22 wherein the
wand receiving structure is formed between the insulating cap
holding structure and the ignitor assembly holding structure,
wherein the wand receiving structure comprises a plurality of
struts with recesses formed thereon to receive a conduit which
connects the nozzle to the fuel supply.
24. The utility lighter frame according to claim 23 wherein the
insulating cap holding structure is further configured to provide a
spark gap between the wand and the nozzle.
25. A utility lighter platform comprising: a fuel supply container
holding fuel therein; a valve actuator associated with the fuel
supply container for selectively releasing fuel therefrom; an
ignitor assembly configured to generate a spark to ignite the
released fuel; and a frame configured to operatively house a
portion of the fuel supply container, the valve actuator, and the
ignitor assembly as a functional unit with structural integrity,
the frame further configured to receive an outer shell to cover a
portion of the frame with the outer shell substantially covering
the fuel supply container, the valve actuator, and the ignitor
assembly.
26. The utility lighter platform of claim 25 wherein the outer
shell includes an ergonomically designed handle.
27. The utility lighter platform of claim 25 further comprising a
supplemental frame configured to house at least the fuel supply
container when affixed to the frame.
28. The utility lighter platform of claim 25 further comprising an
actuating assembly associated with the valve actuator to dispense
the fuel from the fuel supply container and with the ignitor
assembly to generate the spark.
29. The utility lighter platform of claim 28 wherein the frame is
further configured to operatively house the actuating assembly.
30. The utility lighter platform of claim 28 further comprising a
latch stem associated with the actuating assembly and configured to
selectively prevent operative movement the actuating assembly,
wherein the latch stem further comprises a hooked tab connected for
biased movement relative to the actuating assembly and normally
biased into engagement with the actuating assembly to prevent the
operative movement thereof, wherein the user may selectively bias
the hooked tab out of engagement with the actuating assembly to
permit operation of the actuating assembly.
31. The utility lighter platform of claim 30 wherein the frame is
further configured to operatively house the latch stem.
32. The utility lighter platform of claim 25 further includes a
trigger assembly configured to activate the valve actuator and the
ignitor assembly.
33. The utility lighter platform of claim 32 wherein the frame is
further configured to house the trigger.
34. The utility lighter platform of claim 32 further comprising a
biased pivoting member operatively associated with the trigger
assembly and the ignitor assembly for activating at least the
ignitor assembly when the trigger is moved toward the valve
actuator.
35. The utility lighter platform of claim 34 wherein the frame is
further configured to operatively house the biased pivoting
member.
36. The utility lighter platform of claim 25 wherein at least a
portion of the frame has a lattice structure.
37. The utility lighter platform of claim 25 wherein the frame
comprises at least one member.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This is a continuation-in-part of application No.
08/787,399, filed Jan. 22, 1997 and No. 08/917,134, filed Aug. 25,
1997.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present invention generally relates to general purpose
utility lighters such as those used to ignite candles, barbecue
grills, fireplaces and campfires. More specifically, the present
invention relates to utility lighter platforms which are inner
operative lighters without outer shells.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Lighters such as those used for igniting tobacco products,
such as cigars, cigarettes, and pipes, have developed over a number
of years. Typically, these lighters use either a rotary friction
element or a piezoelectric element to generate a spark in proximity
to a nozzle emitting fuel from a fuel container. Piezoelectric
mechanisms have gained universal acceptance because they are simple
for adults to use. One such piezoelectric mechanism is disclosed in
U.S. Pat. No. 5,262,697 ("the '697 patent"). The disclosure of the
'697 patent is incorporated by reference herein.
[0004] Lighters have also evolved from the small, hand-held
lighters to several forms of extended lighters. These lighters are
also hand held, but are more useful for general purposes such as
lighting candles, barbecue grills, fireplaces and campfires.
Earlier attempts at such designs relied simply on extended
actuating handles to house a typical lighter at the end. Examples
of this concept are found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,259,059 and
4,462,791.
[0005] In addition, many utility lighters have had some form of
operating mechanism to prevent unintentional operation of the
lighter by adults. Often, these mechanisms take the form of on/off
switches that may shut off the fuel source or may completely
prevent movement of an actuator, such as a trigger assembly, on the
lighter. However, the on/off switches that must be positively moved
by the user between "on" and "off" positions have drawbacks. For
example, an adult user may forget to move the switch back to the
"off" position after use and thereby render the on/off switch
ineffective.
[0006] Utility lighters also have to appeal to the changing tastes
of the consumers. For instance, some consumers may prefer smaller
handles. Some consumers may prefer shorter handles. Some consumers
may prefer a soft feel grip or a leather grip. Some may like a full
trigger guard over a partial trigger guard. Some consumers may
prefer a utility lighter with smooth curves and seamless lines,
while other may want pronounced lines and sharp curves. Often, the
lighter manufacturer may need to redesign the entire utility
lighter including the outer shell, as well as the internal
mechanisms, in order to satisfy market demands.
[0007] Thus, there remains a need for a utility lighter design that
can quickly and inexpensively adapt to market demand, while
minimizing the need for redesigning.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] These objects and advantages as well as other objects and
advantages are accomplished in a utility lighter platform which
comprises a lighting mechanism configured to selectively ignite
fuel supplied from a fuel supply container, and a frame configured
to operatively house the lighting mechanism and configured to
receive an ergonomically designed outer shell thereon.
[0009] The lighting mechanism may include an ignitor assembly
configured to generate a voltage between its first and second ends,
a valve actuator associated with the fuel supply for selectively
releasing fuel therefrom, an actuating assembly associated with the
valve actuator to dispense fuel from the fuel supply and with the
ignitor assembly to generate the voltage, and a latch stem
associated with the actuating assembly and configured to
selectively prevent operative movement the actuating assembly.
[0010] The latch stem further comprises a hooked tab connected for
biased movement relative to the actuating assembly and normally
biased into engagement with the actuating assembly to prevent the
operative movement thereof, wherein the user may selectively bias
the hooked tab out of engagement with the actuating assembly to
permit operation of the actuating assembly. The latch stem is
adapted to receive an aethestically pleasing cover.
[0011] The actuating assembly comprises a trigger stem extending
from the frame and movable to activate the valve actuator and the
ignitor assembly. The trigger stem is adapted to receive an
aethestically pleasing trigger head.
[0012] In another aspect of the lighting mechanism, the actuating
assembly further comprises a biased pivoting member operatively
associated with the trigger and the ignitor assembly for activating
at least the ignitor assembly when the trigger is moved toward the
valve actuator.
[0013] The frame is further configured to operatively house the
ignitor assembly, the valve actuator, the actuating assembly and
the latch stem. The frame is further configured to operatively
house the hooked tab, the trigger, and the biased pivoting
member.
[0014] The utility lighter platform may be further provided with a
supplemental frame configured to securely house the lighting
mechanism when affixed to the frame.
[0015] More specifically, the frame comprises a fuel supply
container housing structure configured to hold a fuel supply
container at a first end of the frame, an insulating cap holding
structure configured to receive an insulating cap at a second end
of the frame and configured to house a nozzle operatively connected
to the fuel supply, an ignitor assembly holding structure
configured to house an ignitor assembly, and a trigger holding
structure configured to operatively hold a trigger stem with which
to activate the ignitor assembly and to release fuel from the fuel
supply in order to ignite fuel received at the nozzle. The fuel
supply container housing structure comprises a plurality of
protruding members configured to securely hold the fuel supply
container.
[0016] In addition, the insulating cap holding structure comprises
a semi-cylindrically shaped body defining a hollow center therein
to receive the nozzle. The ignitor assembly holding structure
comprises a plurality of recesses and protruding portions for
securely housing the ignitor assembly. The trigger holding
structure comprises a pair of bars spaced apart from each other to
operatively receive the trigger stem.
[0017] The frame can further include a wand receiving structure
formed between the insulating cap holding structure and the ignitor
assembly holding structure, wherein the wand receiving structure
comprises a plurality of struts with recesses formed thereon to
receive a conduit which connects the nozzle to the fuel supply.
[0018] Furthermore, the frame can include a latch receiving
structure configured to receive a latch stem, which is adopted to
prevent operative movement of the trigger stem on the frame. The
latch stem receiving structure comprises at least one protruding
member adapted to securely hold the latch stem.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] Preferred features of the present invention are disclosed in
the accompanying drawings, wherein similar reference characters
denote similar elements throughout the several views, and
wherein:
[0020] FIG. 1 is a side view of a lighting mechanism housed in a
frame in accordance to the present invention;
[0021] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the frame;
[0022] FIG. 3 is a side view of a supplemental frame;
[0023] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a functional utility lighter
platform; and
[0024] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the utility lighter platform
with an outer shell placed thereon.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0025] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a utility lighter platform 10
includes a lighting mechanism configured to selectively ignite fuel
released from a fuel supply container 22. Platform 10 includes a
frame 12, which is adapted to operatively house an ignitor assembly
34 and fuel supply container 22. Frame 12 is also configured to
receive an aesthetically pleasing outer shell thereon. An example
of an outer shell is illustrated in FIG. 5.
[0026] Frame 12 includes a fuel supply holding structure 14 located
near a first end 16 to receive fuel supply container 22. A nozzle
is disposed near a second end 20 of frame 12 for emitting fuel to
feed a flame as will be described herein. It will be noted that the
terms, first end 16 and second end 20, are used to describe the
present invention, and form no part of the invention.
[0027] The fuel supply container 22, which may be a butane fuel
cell, is connected to one end of a conduit 24, such as a plastic
tube, by a fluid connector 26. Fluid connector 26 is connected to a
valve 28 on fuel supply container 22. The opposite end of conduit
24 terminates at the nozzle proximate second end 20.
[0028] Valve 28 is operated by a valve actuator 30, which is
pivotally attached to fuel supply container 22. When valve actuator
30 is depressed as shown in FIG. 1, e.g., moved toward the first
end 16, fuel is selectively released through valve 28, and flows
through connector 26 and tube 24, and toward the nozzle. An
exemplary fuel supply container 22 is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
5,520,197 ("the '197 patent"). The disclosure of the '197 patent is
incorporated herein by reference.
[0029] An actuating assembly is also provided to facilitate the
depression of valve actuator 30 and to compress ignitor assembly 34
for generating a spark near the nozzle. The actuating assembly
preferably comprises a trigger assembly 38, a biased pivoting
member 80, and a linking rod 46 connecting pivoting member 80 to
ignitor assembly 34. These components are described in detail
below. Although not necessary for all aspects of this invention, an
electric ignitor assembly such as a piezoelectric mechanism is the
preferred ignitor for this invention. More specifically, the
preferred piezoelectric mechanism is generally of the type
disclosed in the '697 patent, the disclosure of which has been
incorporated herein by reference.
[0030] A latch stem 36 normally locks the actuating assembly in an
inoperative position such that trigger assembly 38 may not be
sufficiently depressed or pulled by a user to actuate lighter 10.
In a preferred embodiment, latch stem 36 generally includes an
unsupported resilient front end 40 having a hooked tab 42. Hooked
tab 42 is normally in engagement with a stop member structure
disposed on linking rod 46. When hooked tab 42 is engaged against
the stop member structure, which may be a recess formed in linking
rod, linking rod 46 may not be moved in a direction toward second
end 20 to significantly compress and actuate ignitor assembly 34.
Furthermore, in the inoperative position latch stem 36 preferably
prevents sufficient movement of trigger assembly 38 toward end 16
so as to prevent successful actuation of utility lighter 10. Latch
stem 36 is securely affixed to frame 12 by a latch support member
43 at a back end 41. Thus, latch stem 36 is fixedly attached to
frame 12 at back end 41, and is free to flex at front end 40. A
plurality of protruding members are provided on frame 12 to engage
with corresponding recesses 45 formed in latch support member 43,
thereby securely affixing latch stem 36 to frame 12. Latch stem 36,
which can be in the form of a shank 411 as shown in FIG. 4, is
adapted to receive an aesthetically pleasing cover thereon.
[0031] Piezoelectric mechanism 34 has been particularly described
in the '697 patent. The details necessary to an understanding of
this invention have been shown in the drawings of the '697 patent.
In summary, however, piezoelectric mechanism 34 is a telescopic
assembly, which may be compressed to generate a voltage between
first and second electrical contacts 48, 50.
[0032] Specifically, piezoelectric mechanism 34 contains a
piezoelectric crystal in electrical contact with and generally
situated between electrical contacts 48, 50. Electrical contact 48
is generally referred to as an anvil and electrical contact 50
contacts an impact pad positioned on an opposite side of the
piezoelectric crystal. First electrical contact or anvil 48 is in
electrical contact with an electrically conductive wand 403 (as
shown in FIG. 4). Conductive wand 403 is preferably made out of
metal, which may be positioned over a portion of frame 12.
[0033] Second electrical contact 50 is connected to an insulated
wire 54 having two exposed portions 56, 58. Exposed portion 56 is
connected to contact 50, while exposed portion 58 is connected to
the nozzle. The nozzle, which may include a diffuser spring affixed
thereto, therefore acts as an electrode and is preferably formed of
an electrically conductive metal such as stainless steel brass or
zinc for this purpose. A diffuser spring can be an electrically
conductive coil spring, where the space between the adjacent coils
of the spring is designed to allow air to mix with the released
fuel to ensure a proper air/fuel mixture suitable for
combustion.
[0034] Proximate second end 20, a tab or antenna is stamped from
wand 403 to create a spark gap with the nozzle or the diffuser
spring. An opening 66 at the end of conductive wand 403 allows the
passage of ignited fuel from the lighter. Also, in a conventional
manner, side apertures may be provided on conductive wand 403 to
allow the intake of air.
[0035] In accordance with another aspect of this invention, an
electrically insulating cap 70 is disposed around at least a
portion of the nozzle and is generally located between the nozzle
and conductive wand 403. Insulating cap 70 deters sparks from being
generated between the nozzle and surfaces of conductive wand 403
other than at the tab.
[0036] In another embodiment, fuel conduit 24 may be co-extruded
with a conductive material along with a plastic material. For
example, the plastic material may be extruded to form conduit 24 to
conduct fuel gas from fuel supply container 22 to the nozzle, and a
conductive material may be extruded to form the inside or the
outside of conduit 24. The conductive material preferably have
exposed portions 56 and 58, arranged to make electrical contacts to
contact 50 of piezoelectric element 34 and to the nozzle in lieu of
wire 54, respectively. Alternatively, conduit 24 may be made out of
a conductive material without the inner plastic material.
Additionally, it may be desirable to coat, by co-extruding, an
insulating layer outside of the conductive exterior to prevent
electrical arcing from the conductive exterior to wand 403.
[0037] Biased pivoting member 80 of the actuating assembly is
operatively connected trigger assembly 38 and linking rod 46.
Specifically, pivoting member 80 is mounted to a pin 82 in a biased
manner, e.g., by a torsion spring (not shown) placed between member
80 and pin 82 such that member 80 is biased in a counterclockwise
direction as viewed in FIG. 1. Alternatively, pivoting member 80
may be biased by a return spring disposed within the two telescopic
members of piezoelectric mechanism 34 to maintain separation
between the telescopic members. The return spring exerts a biasing
force on rod 46 which is in physical contact with pivoting member
80. Such a return spring is disclosed in the '697 patent.
[0038] Biased pivoting member 80 further includes a pair of arms
84, 86 generally extending from pin 82. Arm 84 may include a knob
88 adapted to depress valve actuator 30 when the user pulls trigger
assembly 38. Alternatively, a portion of trigger assembly 38 itself
may be used to directly engage valve actuator 30. Additionally, a
leaf spring 92 may be disposed between trigger assembly 38 and
valve actuator 30 such that fuel can be released prior to spark
generation at the nozzle to ensure proper timing of fuel release
and spark generation. Such a leaf spring is described in more
details in co-pending application No. 08/917,134.
[0039] Trigger assembly 38 preferably includes a trigger stem 90
and an aesthetically pleasing trigger head 91 affixed thereto.
Trigger stem 90 fits within a channel 92 of frame 12 for sliding
movement relative thereto. Trigger stem 90 further includes a tab
93 that engages with the frame 12 to keep the trigger assembly 38
from completely sliding out from the frame 12. In the position
shown in FIG. 1, tab 93 acts as a stop against the frame 12 to
prevent further movement of trigger assembly 38 away from the valve
actuator 30. Other features that limit forward or rearward
movements of the trigger assembly 38 can also be used.
[0040] Alternatively, trigger assembly 38 may directly actuate both
the valve actuator and the ignitor assembly. In other words,
trigger assembly 38 may directly depress the valve actuator and
directly compress the piezoelectric ignitor. This type lighting
mechanism is also within the scope of this invention. Other aspects
of the lighting mechanism are taught in co-pending U.S. patent
application Nos. 08/787,399 and 08/917,134 which are incorporated
herein in their entirety.
[0041] Referring to FIG. 2, frame 12 may primarily be formed of a
molded rigid polymer or plastic materials such as acrylonitrile
butadiene styrene terpolymer (ABS), acetyl, nylon, or the likes. As
mentioned above, frame 12 includes fuel supply container holding
structure 14 located near first end 16. Frame 12 further includes
an insulating cap holding structure 201 located near second end 20,
a latch stem holding structure 203, a linking rod support structure
205, an ignitor assembly holding structure 207, a trigger holding
structure 209 and a wand receiving structure 211. These structures
are adapted to receive and hold the various similarity named
components of the lighting mechanism.
[0042] Fuel supply container holding structure 14 is configured to
receive and hold fuel supply container 22. Fuel container 22 should
be positioned within fuel supply container holding structure 14
such that valve 28 is at all times in fluid communication with
valve connector 26 in order to ensure proper lighter operation.
Valve 28 may either be connected or aligned with valve connector
26.
[0043] Preferably fuel supply container holding structure 14 has a
curved interior so as to receive fuel supply container 22 with
curved exterior body. Alternatively, fuel supply container holding
structure 14 can have any other shape to receive and hold fuel
supply containers with other exterior shapes. The interior surface
preferably is formed by a plurality of bars 252 and connecting
members 253. The interior surface can have a solid surface as
well.
[0044] Along the length of fuel supply container holding structure
14, a plurality of protruding members 221 is provided. Each
protruding member 221 includes a hook shaped top 213 so as to
securely hold fuel supply container 22. Each protruding member 221
are preferably resilient, so that they may deflect when fuel supply
container 22 is inserted and snapped back afterward to securely
hold fuel container 22 in place.
[0045] The interior surface of fuel supply container holding
structure 14 also includes a locating mechanism in the form of a
protruding tab 250. Protruding tab 250 is shown positioned on a
T-shaped support 251 and extends above the upper surface of the
T-shaped support 251. Protruding tab 250 is received in a
corresponding recess defined on the fuel supply container 22. As
shown in FIG. 1, fuel supply container 22 preferably includes
extensions 252 at the top end thereof which assist in supporting
the valve actuator 30. Extensions 252 preferably include a hole or
recess 254 which is defined to engage the protruding tab 250 on
T-shaped support 251. This locating mechanism assists in the
alignment of valve 28 to valve connector 26.
[0046] Insulating cap holding structure 201, preferably having a
semi-cylindrical body, is configured to receive and hold insulating
cap 70. Insulating cap holding structure 201 also includes a recess
253 to allow the nozzle to pass therethrough. Preferably,
insulating cap 70 defines a hollow cylindrical center that fits
over insulating cap holding structure 201.
[0047] Latch stem holding structure 203 includes a plurality of
protruding members, discussed above. At least one of the protruding
members of latch stem holding structure 203 is a protruding member
255, which preferably has a T-shape. Furthermore, at least one of
the recesses formed within latch support member 43 has a
corresponding shape, so as to receive the T-shaped protruding
member 255. The T-shaped recess and protruding member 255 in
combination with other protruding members and recesses securely
affix latch stem 36 on to frame 12. It should be noted, however, a
protruding member can be formed on latch support member 43 and a
recess can be formed within latch stem holding structure 203.
Further, any combination of protruding members and corresponding
recesses either on the latch stem receiving structure 203 or latch
supporting member 43 can be provided.
[0048] Ignitor linking rod support structure 205 is configured to
support ignitor linking rod 46 for its sliding movement in forward
and rearward directions by suitable support members such as a
plurality of support members molded into or protruding from frame
12. At least one of the support members includes a hook 99. Hook 99
is designed to flex during the insertion of ignitor linking rod 46
and to snap back to its original position after rod 46 is
inserted.
[0049] Ignitor assembly holding structure 207 is configured to
firmly hold ignitor assembly 34. Ignitor assembly holding structure
207 includes at least one protruding member 257 formed on frame 12,
which may include a hook 259 formed at its distal end. Ignitor
assembly holding structure 207 may also include a relief 258
located on each side of protruding member 257. The reliefs 258 are
recesses or cut-outs adapted to provide additional flexibility to
protruding member 257. Protruding member 257 is also designed to
flex and snap back during the insertion of the ignitor 34.
[0050] Wand receiving structure 211 includes at least one bar 241
extending from ignitor assembly holding structure 207 to insulating
cap holding structure 201. Bar 241 is supported by a plurality of
support members such as struts 243. A mold can be modified or
inserted to manufacture frame 12 such that bar 241 may have either
a round shape or polygonal shape. Each strut 243 may include a
recess near its center to allow conduit 24 and wire 54 to pass
therethrough. Alternatively, a pair of recesses can be provided on
each strut 243 such that one of the recesses holds wire 54 and the
other recess holds conduit 24.
[0051] Trigger holding structure 209 is configured to hold trigger
stem 90 and allow its forward and rearward movements. Trigger
holding structure 209 includes a pair of parallel bars 245 spaced
apart from each other to receive trigger stem 90. As mentioned
above, trigger stem 90 is prevented from separating from trigger
holding structure 209 by tab 93.
[0052] Referring to FIG. 3, an optional supplemental frame 301 is
provided to further secure the lighting mechanism to frame 12.
Supplement frame 301 preferably covers at least a portion of fuel
supply container 22 and biased pivoting member 80. Supplemental
frame 301 also may cover portions of ignitor assembly 34, ignitor
linking rod 46 and trigger stem 90.
[0053] Supplemental frame 301 is made from similar material as that
of frame 12. Supplemental frame 301 comprises a plurality of bars
405 connected to each other. Alternatively, supplemental frame 301
can be one solid piece. Supplemental frame 301 also includes a
plurality of holes 303. The holes 303 in supplemental frame 301
correspond to holes 305 in frame 12, whereby fasteners, such as
threaded screws or rivets, can be used to affix supplemental frame
301 to frame 12. Supplemental frame 301 and frame 12 can also be
attached to each other by adhesives or by ultrasonic welding.
Alternatively, protruding portions can be formed on the fringes of
holes 303 in supplemental frame 301 and recess portions can be
formed on the fringes of holes 305 in frame 12, thereby allowing
supplemental frame 301 to be snapped on to frame 12 or vice versa.
In yet another embodiment, frame 12 and supplemental frame 301 can
be affixed to each other by adhesives, ultrasonic welding or other
similar means.
[0054] It should be noted that supplemental frame 301 is an
optional component of the present invention. Frame 12 is preferably
designed to securely hold the lighting mechanism without
supplemental frame 301.
[0055] Referring to FIG. 4, an assembled utility lighter platform
401 includes frame 12, supplemental frame 301, lighting mechanism
which includes components described above, and conductive wand 403.
Utility lighter platform 401 is a functional lighter, i.e., it is
capable of producing a flame. Conductive wand 403 also includes a
pair notches 405 stamped thereon. Notches 405 correspond to a pair
of knobs 245 formed on bars 241, as shown in FIG. 2. Knobs 245 and
notches 405 cooperatively hold conductive shell 403 over wand
receiving structure 211.
[0056] Referring to FIG. 5, an outer shell 501 is placed over the
utility lighter platform 401. By providing the utility lighter
platform 401, a variety of outer shells 501 can be provided without
having to modify any components of platform 401. For instance,
outer shell 501 can be designed to fit within small hands or large
hands, to have a full trigger guard or a partial trigger guard (as
shown), to have differently shaped wands, and/or to have soft of
hard feel grips. Changing market requirements can be met without
changing or modifying platform 401 and the lighting mechanism
contained therein. In addition, as consumers' tastes change the
outer shell 501 can be timely and cost effectively adapted to
follow the changing consumer tastes.
[0057] It should also be noted that trigger head 91 and the cover
for the latch stem 36 can be freely changed without changing the
outer shell design. For examples, trigger head 91 can be designed
to have different shapes, i.e., circular, half-moon, or square, and
the cover for the latch stem 36 can be designed to provide soft
feel or to carry commercial logos or insignia thereon.
[0058] Outer shell 501 may primarily be formed of a molded rigid
polymer or plastic materials such as acrylonitrile butadiene
styrene terpolymer (ABS), or the likes. The outer surface of outer
shell can have many shapes and sizes, and can also be covered with
aesthetically pleasing material such as leather or soft rubber for
their soft feel. Alternatively, transparent plastic material can be
used to form outer shell 501.
[0059] Outer shell 501 preferably is comprised of two halves, which
are configured to fit over utility lighter platform 401 and
securely snap firmly to each other. Additionally, the two halves
can be fastened by a plurality of fasteners, i.e., screws and/or
rivets, through a plurality of corresponding holes 505 provided
thereon. Preferably, at least one set of corresponding holes is
provided to securely fasten frame 12, supplemental frame 301 and
outer shell 501 to each other with fasteners. For instance, a hole
507 in outer shell 501 corresponds to a hole 210 in frame 12 which,
in turn, corresponds to a hole 409 in supplemental frame 301.
Alternatively, the two halves of outer shell 501 can be affixed to
each other by adhesives, ultrasonic welding or the likes.
[0060] The operation of utility lighter 503 will now be described
generally with reference to FIGS. 1, 4 and 5. With one hand, a user
grasps handle 501 with the index finger on trigger 38 and the thumb
on front end 40 of latch stem 36. Depressing and holding the front
end 40 of latch stem 36 downwardly disengage hooked tab 42 from
linking rod 46 thereby allowing full movement of trigger 38.
Thereafter, the user can pull trigger 38. This action depresses
valve actuator 30 through biased pivoting member 80, thereby
releasing fuel from fuel supply container 22 through valve 28,
valve connector 26, conduit 24 and the nozzle. At or about the same
time, the actuation of trigger 38 rotates arm 86 of pivot 80 in a
clockwise direction against linking rod 46. Linking rod 46 moves
forward and compresses piezoelectric mechanism 34 to generate a
voltage between electrical contacts 48, 50. Electrical current
passes from contact 48 into electrically conductive wand 403 and
from contact 50 into wire 54, which is connected to the
electrically conductive nozzle. A spark is thereby generated
between the nozzle and the tab in the wand to ignite the air/gas
mixture in the vicinity of the nozzle outlet. The resulting ignited
fuel passes through hole 66. As long as the user continues to
depress front end 40 of latch stem 36, the trigger may be
repeatedly pulled, and the piezoelectric mechanism 34 and valve
actuator 30 may be actuated repeatedly to generate a flame in the
event that the first actuation does not produce a flame.
[0061] When the user releases trigger 38, biased pivoting member 80
is biased, e.g., by the return spring in the piezoelectric ignitor,
in a counterclockwise position to disengage valve actuator 30 in
order to close valve 28 and shut off the supply of fuel to the
nozzle. This extinguishes the flame emitted from hole 66. When the
user releases latch stem 36 and the trigger is returned, hooked tab
42 re-engages the recess or stop member structure 44 on linking rod
46 thus preventing actuation of the lighter. Therefore, as front
end 40 of latch stem 36 is normally biased in this upward position
such that hooked tab 42 re-engages link member 46, a user cannot
inadvertently leave lighter 503 in a state where trigger 38 may
simply be pulled to activate the lighter. Also, the relative
difficulty of operating both the latch stem and the trigger
essentially at the same time further increases the skills required
to operate the lighter. Although the operation of utility lighter
503 is described with respect to the lighting mechanism illustrated
in FIGS. 1, 4 and 5, the utility lighter platform of the present
invention may be used with other types of lighting mechanism that
are different than the lighting mechanism described herein.
Examples of other lighting mechanisms included those described in
U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,697,775, 5,326,256, 3,947,731, 4,292,021,
4,778,380, 5,154,601 and 5,738,507. Thus, the present invention is
not to be limited to the lighting mechanism described herein.
[0062] While various descriptions of the present invention are
described above, it should be understood that the various features
can be used singly or in any combination thereof. Therefore, this
invention is not to be limited to only the specifically preferred
embodiments depicted herein.
[0063] Further, it should be understood that variations and
modifications within the spirit and scope of the invention may
occur to those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains.
Accordingly, all expedient modifications readily attainable by one
versed in the art from the disclosure set forth herein that are
within the scope and spirit of the present invention are to be
included as further embodiments of the present invention. The scope
of the present invention is accordingly defined as set forth in the
appended claims.
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