U.S. patent application number 11/050169 was filed with the patent office on 2005-08-04 for device providing coordinated emission of light and volatile active.
Invention is credited to Helf, Thomas A., Porchia, Jose, Wolf, Jeffrey J..
Application Number | 20050169812 11/050169 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34837454 |
Filed Date | 2005-08-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050169812 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Helf, Thomas A. ; et
al. |
August 4, 2005 |
Device providing coordinated emission of light and volatile
active
Abstract
A light and substance emitting device (100) includes a light
source (106), an emitter (108) a power source (118), control
circuitry (110,112), and a support structure (102, 104, 134). The
light source (106) emits a flickering light that emulates a flame
of a candle. The emitter (108) emits a volatile active. The power
source (118) supplies power to the light source (106) and to the
emitter (108). The control circuitry (110,112) controls at least
one of (i) the light source (106) to flicker and (ii) the emitter
(108) to emit the volatile active. The support structure (102, 104,
134) supports the light source (106), the emitter (108), the power
source (118) and the control circuitry (110, 112).
Inventors: |
Helf, Thomas A.; (New
Berlin, WI) ; Porchia, Jose; (Greenfield, WI)
; Wolf, Jeffrey J.; (Racine, WI) |
Correspondence
Address: |
S.C. JOHNSON & SON, INC.
1525 HOWE STREET
RACINE
WI
53403-2236
US
|
Family ID: |
34837454 |
Appl. No.: |
11/050169 |
Filed: |
February 3, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60541067 |
Feb 3, 2004 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
422/123 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A01M 1/04 20130101; F21Y
2115/10 20160801; G02B 6/0068 20130101; A61L 9/122 20130101; G02B
6/0051 20130101; A61L 9/14 20130101; F21S 6/001 20130101; A61L
9/037 20130101; A01M 1/02 20130101; F21S 10/043 20130101; A61L
2209/12 20130101; A61L 9/127 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
422/123 |
International
Class: |
A61L 009/14 |
Claims
We claim:
1. A light and substance emitting device comprising: a light source
that emits a flickering light that emulates a flame of a candle; an
emitter that emits a volatile active; a power source that supplies
power to said light source and to said emitter; control circuitry
that controls at least one of (i) said light source to flicker and
(ii) said emitter to emit the volatile active; and a support
structure that supports said light source, said emitter, said power
source, and said microcontroller.
2. The device according to claim 1, wherein said support structure
comprises: a chassis on which said light source, said emitter, said
power source, and said control circuitry are disposed; and a holder
to which said chassis is engageable, said holder including a light
diffuser for diffusing light emitted from said light source.
3. The device according to claim 1, wherein said support structure
comprises a chassis on which said light source, said emitter, said
power source and said control circuitry are disposed, wherein the
chassis is adapted to be one of engageable with and supported by a
holder.
4. The device according to claim 1, wherein said emitter comprises
an atomizer that atomizes a liquid contained in a reservoir, the
reservoir being removably securable to said support structure so as
to mate with said atomizer.
5. The device according to claim 4, further comprising a switch for
adjusting the amount of volatile active emitted by said
atomizer.
6. The device according to claim 1, wherein said light source
comprises one or more LEDs.
7. The device according to claim 1, wherein said light source
comprises only one LED.
8. The device according to claim 1, further comprising an on/off
switch for turning said light source on and off.
9. The device according to claim 1, wherein a portion of said
support structure diffuses the flickering light emitted by said
light source.
10. The device according to claim 9, wherein the portion of the
support structure that diffuses the flickering light is formed of
at least one of wax, glass, and plastic.
11. The device according to claim 1, wherein the power supply
comprises a single battery, and a voltage step-up is used to supply
sufficient power to one or both of said light source and said
emitter.
12. A light and substance emitting device comprising: a light
source that emits a flickering light that emulates a flame of a
candle; a substance emitter that emits a volatile active; control
circuitry that controls at least one of said light source and said
emitter; a power source that supplies power to said light source,
to emit the flickering light, and to said substance emitter, to
emit the volatile active; a chassis on which one or more of said
light source, substance emitter, control circuitry, and power
source are disposed; and a holder to which said chassis may be
removably placed, the holder and chassis forming a housing in which
said light source, substance emitter, control circuitry, and power
source are disposed, wherein at least one of said chassis and said
holder includes a diffuser that diffuses the light emitted by the
light source.
13. The device according to claim 12, wherein said light source
comprises at least one LED.
14. The device according to claim 12, wherein said emitter
comprises an atomizer that atomizes a liquid contained in a
reservoir, and the reservoir is removably securable to said
chassis.
15. The device according to claim 14, wherein said control
circuitry controls both of said atomizer and said light source.
16. The device according to claim 12, wherein at least one of said
chassis and said body are formed of at least one of wax, glass, and
plastic.
17. The device according to claim 12, wherein an aperture is formed
through said housing and said substance emitter emits the volatile
active through the aperture.
18. The device according to claim 17, wherein said substance
emitter is disposed above said light source and light transmitted
from the light source is primarily transmitted through a side of
the housing.
19. The device according to claim 12, wherein a protrusion extends
axially upwardly from a top surface of the housing, at least a
portion of said light source is disposed within the protrusion, and
wherein the protrusion comprises the diffuser.
20. The device according to claim 12, wherein said light source
comprises a first LED and a second LED, arranged such that the
first LED is located above the second LED.
21. The device according to claim 20, wherein the first LED is
controlled to flicker, and the second LED is controlled to emit a
substantially continuous intensity of perceived light.
22. A light and substance emitting device comprising: at least one
LED that emits a flickering light that emulates a flame of a
candle; a substance emitter that emits a volatile active; a power
source that provides power to at least one of said light source, to
emit the light, and said substance emitter, to emit the volatile
active; and at least one of a single microcontroller and a single
circuit board, to control both of said light source to emit the
flickering light and said substance emitter to emit the volatile
active.
23. The device according to claim 22, further comprising a housing
within which at least one of said at least one LED, said substance
emitter, said power source, and said at least one of the single
microcontroller and the single circuit board are disposed.
24. The device according to claim 23, wherein at least a portion of
said housing diffuses light emitted from said at least one LED.
25. The device according to claim 22, wherein said substance
emitter comprises an atomizer that atomizes the volatile active,
the volatile active is contained within a reservoir, and the
reservoir is removably securable to said atomizer.
Description
RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 60/541,067, filed Feb. 3, 2004.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] Our invention relates to the integrated presentation of
ambient conditions. More specifically, our invention relates to the
controlled and coordinated emission of light and volatile active,
e.g., a fragrance, into a given area, such as a room, from a single
device.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] Because of their wide array of shapes and sizes, as well as
the seemingly limitless number of available scents, few things are
quite as versatile at setting the ambience in an area as scented
candles. Scented candles are not without drawbacks, however. For
example, dripping wax can damage furniture and the skin and, in the
extreme, an open flame can lead to a structure fire.
[0006] To account for the common problems associated with candles,
electronic lighting devices that have a flickering candle
appearance, such as those disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,013,972 and
6,066,924, are generally known in the art. In the '972 patent, two
side-by-side lamps are alternatingly turned on and off at such
frequencies that a flickering is perceived. Similarly, the '924
patent discloses circuitry used to control two light bulbs in close
proximity to each other such that the bulbs flicker. Moreover, the
circuitry and bulbs of the '924 patent are contained within a
container of a size and shape similar to common flat candles. While
these patents may suggest devices that mimic the visual aesthetics
of a candle, they fail to provide the scented candle experience,
i.e., they fail to emit fragrance in addition to light.
[0007] Fragrance dispensers are also generally known. For example,
it is known to emit fragrance from an aerosol container upon the
activation of a trigger by a user. Also, other methods utilize the
evaporative properties of liquids, or other vaporizable materials,
to cause vapors with desired properties to be distributed into the
ambient air. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,413,779 discloses a glass
container containing a fluid into which two rigid porous nylon
wicks extend. The wicks contact a rigid plastic porous element. In
use, the wicks transport the fluid from the glass container to the
ambient air. As a further example of air fresheners, the art is
also generally aware of atomizer assemblies for releasing fragrance
from a wick that draws fragrant liquid from a reservoir. For
example, commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 6,296,196 and commonly
assigned and copending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/412,911,
filed Apr. 14, 2003, both discussed in detail below, disclose such
assemblies. The '196 patent and the '911 application are hereby
incorporated by reference. Although these representative devices
provide fragrance emission, they do not provide the visual
aesthetic of a candle.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] Our invention provides a device that emits both light and
scent (or other active ingredient) similar to a scented candle.
More particularly, our invention is directed to an improved candle
that employs a unique design combining a flameless flickering
effect and an effective, reliable volatile active delivery
system.
[0009] More specifically, in an aspect of our invention, a light
and substance emitting device includes a light source, an emitter,
a power source, control circuitry, and a support structure. The
light source emits a flickering light that emulates a flame of a
candle. The emitter emits a volatile active. The power source
supplies power to the light source and to the emitter. The control
circuitry controls at least one of the light source to flicker and
the emitter to emit the volatile active. The support structure
supports the light source, the emitter, the power source, and the
control circuitry.
[0010] According to another aspect of our invention, a light and
substance emitting device includes a light source, a substance
emitter, control circuitry, a power source, a chassis, and a
holder. The light source emits a flickering light that emulates a
flame of a candle. The substance emitter emits a volatile active.
The control circuitry controls at least one of the light source and
the emitter. The power source supplies power to the light source,
to emit the flickering light, and to the substance emitter, to emit
the volatile active. One or more of the light source, substance
emitter, control circuitry, and power source are disposed on the
chassis. The chassis may be removably placed on the holder, the
holder and chassis forming a housing in which the light source,
substance emitter, control circuitry, and power source are
disposed. At least one of the chassis and the body includes a
diffuser that diffuses the light emitted by the light source.
[0011] According to a further embodiment of our invention, a light
and substance emitting device includes at least one LED, a
substance emitter, a power source, and at least one of a single
microcontroller and a single circuit board. The at least one LED
emits a flickering light that emulates a flame of a candle. The
substance emitter emits a volatile active. The power source
provides power to at least one of the light source, to emit the
light, and the substance emitter, to emit the volatile active. The
at least one of the single microcontroller and the single circuit
board control both of the light source to emit the flickering light
and the substance emitter to emit the volatile active.
[0012] A better understanding of these and other aspects, features,
and advantages of the invention may be had by reference to the
drawings and to the accompanying description, in which preferred
embodiments of the invention are illustrated and described.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a light and fragrance
emitting device according to a first embodiment of our
invention.
[0014] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective of the device of FIG.
1.
[0015] FIG. 3 is a side view of the device of FIG. 1, with the base
removed.
[0016] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of components of the device of
FIG. 1.
[0017] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the device of FIG. 1
disposed in a holder.
[0018] FIG. 6 is a side view of a light and fragrance emitting
device according to a second embodiment of our invention.
[0019] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view showing the
relationship of the device of FIG. 6 with a base.
[0020] FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 8C are views of a light and fragrance
emitting device according to a third embodiment of our
invention.
[0021] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a light and fragrance
emitting device according to another aspect of our invention.
[0022] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a light and fragrance
emitting device according to still another aspect of our
invention.
[0023] FIG. 11 illustrates further embodiments of a light and
fragrance device according to our invention.
[0024] FIGS. 12A-12D illustrate configurations of holders to be
used according to various aspects of our invention.
[0025] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a preferred
fragrance dispenser of our invention.
[0026] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the preferred
fragrance dispenser shown in FIG. 13.
[0027] Throughout the figures, like or corresponding reference
numerals have been used for like or corresponding parts.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0028] Our invention provides a device that emits both light and
fragrance. Preferably, our invention provides a single device that
mimics both the visual and olfactory aesthetics of a scented
candle, without an open flame and with an improved fragrance
delivery system.
[0029] While a preferred embodiment of our invention includes
emission of a fragrance, and much of the discussion below will be
with regard to emission of a fragrance, we also contemplate that
the dispenser of our invention may alternatively dispense other
volatile actives. Such alternate volatile actives may include, for
example, disinfectants, sanitizers, insecticides, and insect
repellants. As will be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the
art, other volatile actives can also be introduced to the ambient
environment via dispensers in much the same way as fragrances.
[0030] As generally seen in the figures, preferred embodiments of
our invention include a device for emitting light and fragrance.
The device preferably includes an electrically-powered light
source, a fragrance dispenser, a power source, control circuitry,
and a support structure. All of these components work together to
provide a fragrant aroma and the appearance of a flickering flame,
the flickering effect being provided by the electrically-powered
light source.
[0031] Light Source
[0032] The light source of our invention is an electrically-powered
light emitting device. In preferred arrangements, the light source
comprises one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs). Particularly,
in FIGS. 1-7 a single LED 106 or 206 is used, while in FIGS. 8A-8C,
the light source includes LEDs 306a, 306b. Other conventional
lighting devices (including, for example, incandescent, halogen,
fluorescent, etc.) may alternatively be used as the light
source.
[0033] As is generally understood, LEDs offer various features not
found in other conventional lighting devices. In particular, as is
well known in the art, by manipulating the duty cycle of an LED,
light emitted from the LED can be controlled. For example, light
can be emitted at perceptible intermittencies, or it can be emitted
such that it is perceived to be continually emitted. Moreover,
increasing the duty cycle of an LED will increase the intensity of
light emitted and/or the perceived color.
[0034] In the embodiments in which a single LED is used, the LED is
controlled to have a varying intensity, thereby providing a
flickering effect. When two LEDs are used, as in FIGS. 8A-8C, the
two LEDs 306a, 306b are preferably arranged one above the other,
i.e., the LED 306a is on a side of the LED 306b opposite to a base
of the light and fragrance emitting device 300. Preferably, the
upper LED 306a is controlled to emit light at a perceivable
intermittence, while the lower LED 306b is controlled such that
light is perceived to be emitted continuously. In this fashion, the
LEDs 306a, 306b work to create a flicker effect. When, for example,
a conventional candle is lit, the base of the flame is steady,
while the portion of the flame further from the wick appears to
flicker. The present arrangement of the LEDs 306a, 306b mimics this
visual characteristic. It is preferred that LEDs having a yellowish
or amber hue be used. Specifically, it is preferred that the LEDs
used have a wavelength of emission in the range of from
approximately 580 nanometers to approximately 600 nanometers, and
it is even more preferred that the LEDs used have a wavelength of
emission in the range of from approximately 585 nanometers to
approximately 595 nanometers.
[0035] Of course, we anticipate modifications to the light source
of our preferred embodiment. For example, more than two LEDs can be
used, perhaps, to create the perception of a larger flame. Also,
LEDs of many colors are known and could be used, for example to
more closely resemble a flame by using hues that are reddish,
orangish, and/or yellowish. The colors can also be made to change,
for example, using RGB LEDs (i.e., an array of red, green, and blue
LEDS). By so varying the types of LEDs used, as well as their
arrangement, numerous aesthetics can be obtained, including varied
colored shows, colored flames, and colored flickers. And, by
adjusting the duty cycles of the LEDs, the brightness of the light
may also be reduced or intensified, as dictated by design
preference.
[0036] Moreover, when multiple LEDs are used, it is not required
that one LED provide a perceptibly constant light emission while
the other LED 306a provides a flicker effect. One or both may be
held perceptibly constant and one or both may emit flickering
light. (It would be recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art
that when using pulse width modulation to control one or more LEDs
perceptibly constant and flickering lights may both be flickering
at a high frequency imperceptible to an observer. Thus, flickering
and constant light should be understood herein to refer to
perceived effects.)
[0037] Fragrance Dispenser
[0038] A fragrance dispenser is preferably provided integrally with
our invention. The fragrance dispenser preferably holds a
replaceable container, or reservoir, having a fragrance in any one
of a number of conventional forms, including gel and liquid forms.
The fragrance may be vaporized by the application of heat and
emanated from the device. In such a case, the dispenser may have a
controllable heating device to vary the rate at which vapor is
driven from the fragrance or a mechanical controller for
controlling the airflow around the fragrance to be vaporized (such
as a shield or fan).
[0039] While fragrance dispensers are generally well known, a
preferred fragrance dispenser is a wick-based emanation system.
More preferably, the fragrance dispenser uses an atomizer to
emanate the fragrance from the wick. Such an arrangement is shown
in FIGS. 13 and 14.
[0040] Specifically, the preferred evaporative fragrance dispenser
4 comprises an atomizer assembly including an orifice plate 462,
and a replaceable reservoir 326. The reservoir 326 is replaceable
and contains a fluid. A wick 464 is disposed in the reservoir 326.
The wick 464 operates by capillary action to transfer liquid from
within the reservoir 326. The reservoir 326 is preferably removable
by a user and may be replaced with another reservoir 326 (for
example, when the fluid is exhausted or when a differently scented
fluid is desired). When replaced in this manner, the wick 464
transfers fluid from the reservoir 326.
[0041] In addition to including the orifice plate 462, the atomizer
assembly further comprises at least one resilient, elongated
wire-like support 466 shaped to resiliently support the lower
surface of the orifice plate 462 and a spring housing 468. A spring
470, contained within the spring housing 468, resiliently presses
on the upper surface of the orifice plate 462. Rather than pressing
on the orifice plate 462 directly, the spring 470 may
alternatively, or additionally, press on a member, such as an
actuator element 472 (made of, for example, piezo-electric ceramic
material, which is connected to the orifice plate 462). Together,
the wire-like support 466 and the spring 470 hold the orifice plate
462 in place in a manner that allows the orifice plate 462 to move
up and down against the resilient bias of the wire-like support
466.
[0042] The actuator element 472 is preferably annularly shaped and
the orifice plate 462 is preferably circular. The orifice plate 462
extends across and is soldered or otherwise affixed to the actuator
element 472. A construction of a vibrator-type atomizer assembly is
well known and is described, for example, in U.S. Pat. No.
6,296,196. Accordingly, the atomizer assembly will not be described
in detail except to say that when alternating voltages are applied
to the opposite upper and lower sides of the actuator element 472,
these voltages produce electrical fields across the actuator
element 472 and cause it to expand and contract in radial
directions. This expansion and contraction is communicated to the
orifice plate 462 causing it to flex such that a center region
thereof vibrates up and down. The center region of the orifice
plate 462 is domed slightly upwardly to provide stiffness and to
enhance atomization. The center region is also formed with a
plurality of minute tapered orifices that extend through the
orifice plate 462 from the lower or under surface of the orifice
plate 462 to its upper surface.
[0043] In operation, electrical power, in the form of high
frequency alternating voltages, is applied to the opposite upper
and lower sides of the actuator element 472, as described above. A
suitable circuit for producing these voltages is shown and
described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,296,196, noted above. As described in
that patent, the device may be operated during successive on and
off times. The relative durations of these on and off times can be
adjusted by an external switch actuator (not shown) on the outside
of the housing and coupled to a switch element on the
microcontroller. In other embodiments, the on and off times may be
controlled by a preset program, or controlled by a user interface
working through a processor, such as a user control.
[0044] When the atomizer assembly is supported by the wire-like
support 466, the orifice plate 462 is positioned in contact with
the upper end of the wick 464. The atomizer assembly is thereby
supported above the liquid reservoir 326 such that the upper end of
the wick 464 touches the underside of the orifice plate 462. Thus,
the wick 464 delivers liquid from within the liquid reservoir 326
by capillary action to the top of the wick 464 and then by surface
tension contact to the underside of the orifice plate 462, which,
upon vibration, causes the liquid to pass through its orifices and
be ejected from its opposite side (i.e., the upper surface) in the
form of small droplets.
[0045] In a preferred arrangement, a horizontal platform serves as
a common structural support for both the reservoir 326 and the
atomizer assembly. In this manner, the reservoir 326, and, in
particular, the upper end of the wick 464 disposed therein, are
aligned with the orifice plate 462. Moreover, because the atomizer
assembly and the orifice plate 462 are resiliently mounted, the
upper end of the wick 464 will always press against the under
surface of the orifice plate 462 and/or the actuator element 472
irrespective of dimensional variations which may occur due to
manufacturing tolerances when one reservoir 326 is replaced by
another. This is because if the wick 464 contained in the
replacement reservoir 326 is higher or lower than the wick 464 of
the original liquid reservoir 326, the action of the spring 470
will allow the orifice plate 462 to move up and down according to
the location of the wick 464 in the replacement reservoir 326, so
that the wick 464 will press against the underside of the orifice
plate 462 and/or the actuator element 472. It will be appreciated
that the wick 464 preferably is formed of a substantially solid,
dimensionally stable material so that it will not become overly
deformed when pressed against the underside of the resiliently
supported orifice plate 462. The features of the horizontal
platform on which the atomizer is disposed will be discussed
further below.
[0046] As shown, the wick 464 extends from inside the liquid
reservoir 326 up through a plug 474 in the top of the reservoir 326
to contact the orifice plate 462 and/or the actuator element 472.
(The plug 474 holds the wick 464 within the liquid reservoir 326.)
The wick 464 has longitudinally extending capillary passageways
that draw liquid up from within the reservoir 326 to the upper end
of the wick 464. In lieu of the capillary wick 464, we envision
that a capillary member (not shown) may alternatively be used. Such
a member generally includes plural capillary passageways on an
exterior surface thereof. These passageways act, via capillary
action, to transfer fragrance from the liquid reservoir 326 to the
orifice plate 462 and/or the actuator element 472.
[0047] A more detailed explanation of the atomization device
described above may be found in commonly assigned copending U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 10/412,911, filed Apr. 14, 2003. In
addition, a more detailed explanation of the support structure for
the atomizing device may be found in commonly assigned copending
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/304,215, filed Nov. 26, 2002.
The disclosure of the '215 application is hereby incorporated by
reference.
[0048] Of course, other fragrance emitting devices may be
substituted as desired in consideration of design choices,
manufacturing costs, etc. Specifically, we envision that
evaporation devices, heat-assisted evaporation devices, and
fan-assisted evaporation devices, among others, could be used in
place of the piezoelectrically actuated atomization device
described above. Moreover, even within each type of dispenser,
variations are possible, as would be appreciated by one of ordinary
skill in the art.
[0049] Power Source
[0050] The power source supplies power to light the light source,
and if required, to operate the fragrance dispenser (for example,
to supply voltages to the upper and lower surfaces of the actuator
plate in the atomization-type fragrance dispenser discussed above).
Also, the power source may be used to power additional components
(although not shown, these additional components may include, e.g.,
a fan). In a preferred embodiment, the power source comprises one
or more batteries. When one battery is used, a voltage step-up may
be used to ensure sufficient power. The batteries may be
replaceable, or they may be rechargeable. If rechargeable batteries
are used, they may be removed for recharging, or an adapter may be
provided on the device such that the batteries can be charged
without being removed from the device. For instance, a receptacle
(not shown) may be incorporated into the device to receive a plug
that supplies power from, for example, an electrical outlet. It is
not required, however, that the power source comprise batteries.
For example, power for the device may be derived directly from an
electrical outlet. As will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill,
however, the use of alternate power sources may require that the
device further include an AC to DC converter.
[0051] Control Circuitry
[0052] As used throughout, the term "control circuitry" is intended
to be a representative term that encompasses all controls that can
be used to embody our invention. For example, the preferred
embodiments are discussed below with reference to microcontrollers
and/or circuit boards. Microcontrollers and circuit boards
constitute control circuitry. Further contemplated examples of
control circuitry that may be used to embody our invention are an
Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a microprocessor,
and an arrangement of one or more resistors and/or capacitors.
Control circuitry may or may not include software. These examples
of control circuitry are not limiting, however. Other control
circuitry may also bemused.
[0053] The control circuitry is generally used to control the
operation of the device and is powered by the batteries.
Specifically, the control circuitry is designed to provide the
signals for controlling the operation of the light source. When one
or more LEDs are provided as the light source, the microcontroller
may alter the duty cycles of the LEDs to control the perceived
intensity of the emitted light, thereby creating the candle-like
flicker effect. Alternatively, instead of altering the duty cycles,
the microcontroller may otherwise adjust the light emission
properties of the LEDs. For example, methods utilizing an analog
sine wave or a digital potentiometer are generally known in the
art. In other embodiments, when at least two LEDs are used, as in
FIGS. 8A-8C, and one LED 306b receives a constant current to emit
light constantly, that LED 306b can be controlled separately from a
circuit board, either to receive a power supply from the power
source, when the device is turned on, or to not receive power, when
the device is turned off. In other words, when one LED 306b
constantly emits light, it is not necessary to provide means for
adjusting the duty cycle thereof (such as the microcontroller). In
this case, the microcontroller may adjust the operation of only the
LEDs that flicker. In other embodiments the constant emission LED
may be controlled by pulse width modulation set by the
microcontroller such that the frequency of the pulse width is
imperceptible to an observer. In this manner, the intensity of the
constant emission LED may be varied slightly to add to the overall
flicker presentation.
[0054] Also, when the preferred fragrance dispenser discussed above
is used, the microcontroller may include circuits for converting
power from the batteries to the high-frequency alternating voltages
required to expand and to contract the actuator member 472, thereby
emitting fragrance from the fragrance dispenser 4. In addition, the
microcontroller may control a fan and/or a heating element, if such
are used. Furthermore, the microcontroller may include controls for
automatically turning on and/or off one or both of the light source
and the fragrance dispenser.
[0055] Support Structure
[0056] Our invention also includes a support structure, provided to
support the light source, the fragrance emitter, the power source,
and the microcontroller, or some combination thereof. The term
"support structure" is intended to encompass any and all of a
chassis, a housing, a holder, and a base, as those terms are used
in the description of the preferred embodiments, as well as similar
structures used to support or contain the features of our
invention.
Preferred Embodiments
[0057] Having now generally described the components of our
invention, discussion will now be made of preferred embodiments of
a light and substance emitting device according to our invention.
These preferred embodiments include various novel arrangements of
the above-described components, as well as additional features.
[0058] The first embodiment is depicted in FIGS. 1-5 and will be
described with reference to those figures. As seen best in FIGS. 2
and 3, a chassis 102 is provided that includes a chassis cover
102a, a chassis upper portion 102b, and a chassis lower portion
102c. Disposed on the chassis 102 are two batteries 118, a
wick-based atomizer assembly 108, a single LED 106, and two printed
circuit boards 114, 116. Each of two microcontrollers 110, 112 are
disposed on the circuit boards 114, 116. (While in this embodiment
two microcontrollers 110, 112 (one for each of the LED 106 and the
atomizer assembly 108) and two circuit boards 114, 116 (one for
each of the LED 106 and the atomizer assembly 108), a single
microcontroller and/or a single circuit board may be used to
control both the LED 106 and the atomizer 108.) As shown, the
chassis cover 102a and the chassis upper portion 102b are joinable
to form a cavity therebetween, and the chassis lower portion 102c
depends downwardly from a bottom of the chassis upper portion 102b.
In this embodiment, the atomizer assembly 108, the LED 106, the
microcontrollers 110,112, and the printed circuit boards 114, 116
are disposed within the cavity formed between the chassis cover
102a and the chassis upper portion 102b. Electrical contacts 122,
which the batteries 118 contact to supply the device 100 with
power, are disposed on the lower portion 102c of the chassis 102,
with the batteries 118 disposed in contact with the electrical
contacts 122.
[0059] In this embodiment, the batteries 118 are removably
securable to the lower portion 102c of the chassis 102. A battery
retainer 120 may also be provided to aid in maintaining attachment
of the batteries 118 to the chassis 102. When the batteries 118 are
to be detached from the chassis 102, the retainer 120 must first be
removed. Also in this embodiment, an entryway (not shown) is formed
in the bottom of the upper portion 102b of the chassis 102,
proximate to the atomizer assembly 108, so that a reservoir 126
containing a liquid to be atomized may be easily removed from, and
reattached to, the atomizer assembly 108. Accordingly, this
arrangement provides a user with access to the batteries 118 and to
the reservoir 126 (for example, to enable changing the batteries
118 and the reservoir 126), but the remaining components are
maintained within the cavity formed between the chassis cover 102a
and the chassis upper portion 102b, reducing the possibility of
contact with, and possible damage to, those components.
[0060] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, in the first embodiment, a
protrusion, or tip 124 extends axially upwardly from the top of the
chassis cover 102a. Preferably, the LED 106 is disposed within the
tip 124, such that light emitted from the LED 106 is diffused by,
and transmitted through, the tip 124. In this embodiment, as
depicted in FIG. 2, the tip 124 is a separate component of the
device 100, disposed within an aperture formed through the top of
the chassis 102. The tip 124 may also be formed integrally with the
chassis 102. By making the tip 124 a separate piece, however, the
tip 124 may be replaceable, e.g., with other, differently
constructed, or colored, tips. Also, a separate tip 124 may be
formed of a material other than that used for the chassis. For
example, the tip 124 may be formed of a material through which
light is transmitted, e.g., plastic, glass, wax, and the like.
Additionally the tip 124 may be formed of a glow-in-the-dark
material or of a material that continues to glow for a time after
the LED 106 is shut off.
[0061] Apertures other than that formed for insertion of the tip
124 may also be formed in the chassis 102a. For example, an
emissive aperture 136 is preferably formed through the top surface
of the chassis 102, above the atomizer assembly 108, such that the
substance emitted by the atomizer passes through the emissive
aperture 136, into the ambient environment. Furthermore, apertures
may be formed in the chassis 102, through which switches are
disposed. For example, an emitter controlling switch cover 128
(that cooperates with a slidable switch (not-shown)), in
communication with the microcontroller 112 that controls the timing
of the duty cycle applied to the atomizer assembly 108, may be
provided to enable a user to manually adjust an amount of substance
emitted. In this manner, the user can optimize the emission amount,
based on outside considerations, such as room size, and the like.
Furthermore, an on/off switch or button 130 may also be provided in
an aperture formed through the chassis 102, to turn one or both of
the LED 106 and the atomizer 108 on and off. For example, as shown
in FIG. 1, the on/off toggle switch 130, which is electrically
connected to the LED 108, is disposed in an aperture through the
top surface of the chassis 102, thereby enabling a user to turn the
LED 108 on and off. Although not shown, a similar toggle switch, a
push button, or the like, may also be provided for turning the
atomizer assembly 108 on and off. In other embodiments, the chassis
102 may have exposed sections, such that apertures need not be
formed.
[0062] The chassis 102, with attached components, is preferably
detachably engageable with a base, or cup 134. The engagement of
the chassis 102 with the base 134 forms a unitary housing in which
the atomizer assembly 108, reservoir 126, batteries 118 and
controls are disposed. In the preferred embodiment, the base 134 is
generally cylindrical, including a sidewall and a bottom surface.
The top of the base is open. The upper portion 102b of the chassis
102 is also generally cylindrical, with an outer diameter
substantially the same as that of the base 134. By lowering the
chassis 102 into the base 134, the lower portion 102c of the
chassis 102 becomes disposed within the base 134, and the upper
portion 102b of the chassis 102 is disposed proximate to the open
top of the base 134. The unitary housing thus formed has the
appearance of a cylinder, with a tip protruding axially upwardly
from approximately a central portion of the top of the
cylinder.
[0063] While one of ordinary skill in the art would understand that
there are many ways for removably engaging the chassis with respect
to the base, a preferred method of engagement is described as
follows. A substantially C-shaped receptacle is formed on the lower
portion of the chassis 102, and a protrusion extends axially
upwardly from the bottom surface of the base 134. When the chassis
102 is lowered into the base 134, the C-shaped receptacle of the
lower portion 102c of the chassis 102 receives therein the
protrusion formed in the base 134. In this way, proper alignment of
the chassis 102 within the base 134 is achieved. Moreover, as
should be understood, because the chassis 102 and the base 134 each
has a cylindrical footprint and the protrusion and C-shaped
receptacle are positioned on respective axes, the chassis 102 is
easily attached to the base 134 regardless of the rotational
orientation of the chassis 102 with respect to the base 134.
[0064] Preferably, the dimensions of the chassis 102 and base 134
combination are anywhere from between approximately one inch (25.4
mm) and approximately six inches (152.4 mm) in diameter and
prefereably anywhere from between approximately one inch (25.4 mm)
and approximately six inches (152.4 mm) in height. Of course, the
dimensions may be larger or smaller, depending on the desired
aesthetic. Also, because as described above at least a portion of
the flickering LED 106 is disposed within the tip 124, which
preferably diffuses the emitted light, the tip 124 has the
appearance of a conventional candle's flame. All or a portion of
the rest of the device 100 may also be light transmissive. Light
transmissive materials that may be used include glass, plastic,
wax, and the like. Furthermore, by moving the LED within the tip, a
more realistic perception of a conventional candle may be
obtained.
[0065] Thus, according to the first embodiment of our invention,
the combination of the chassis 102 and base 134, as a result of
their likeness to a conventional candle, may be provided to a
consumer to be used with existing votive holders for conventional
candles. Alternatively, our invention can be embodied in the
combination of chassis 102 and base 134 with holder 104 (as shown
in FIG. 4). Furthermore, it should also be understood that the
chassis 102 may be designed to stand alone, i.e., without the base
134. For example, the lower portion 102c of the chassis 102 may be
designed to enable the entire chassis 102 to stand on its own.
[0066] A second embodiment of our invention will now be described
with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. This embodiment includes many of
the same components as discussed above with respect to the first
embodiment, and descriptions thereof will not be repeated.
[0067] According to this second embodiment, a chassis 202
(different from the chassis 102 of the first embodiment) is
provided. An atomizer assembly 208, an LED 206, two circuit boards,
a microcontroller, and a battery 218 are disposed on the chassis
202. As illustrated, the chassis 202 includes a top 202a, an upper
portion 202b, disposed below the top 202a, and a lower portion
202c, disposed below the upper portion 202b. The atomizer assembly
208 is arranged on the upper portion 202b of the chassis 202, and a
reservoir 226 containing a fluid to be atomized by the atomizer
assembly 208 is removably matable to the atomizer assembly 208. The
lower portion 202c of the chassis 202 is disposed sufficiently
below the upper portion 202b of the chassis 202 so as to facilitate
removal and replacement of the reservoir 226. The lower portion
preferably includes an inner cavity in which the controls, i.e.,
circuit board(s) and microcontroller(s) (not shown), are
disposed.
[0068] The LED 206 is disposed proximate to a top surface of the
lower portion 202c of the chassis 202. More specifically, the LED
206 of this embodiment is disposed on a circuit board disposed
within the inner cavity of the lower portion 202c of the chassis
202. An aperture is formed through a top of the lower portion 202c
of the chassis 202, and at least a portion of the LED 206 protrudes
through the aperture. The battery 218 is disposed below the lower
portion of the chassis 202. As would be appreciated by one of skill
in the art, electrical leads and the like may be necessary for
communication between the battery 218, the controls, the LED 206,
and the atomizer assembly 208.
[0069] As shown in FIG. 7, the chassis 202 is removably placeable
within a base 234. The base 234 is generally cylindrical, with a
bottom surface (not shown) and an open top. The chassis 202 is
received in the base 234 through the open top. The chassis 202 and
the base 234, when the chassis 202 is placed in the base 234, form
a unitary housing in which the LED 208, the substance emitter 206,
the controls, and the battery 218 are disposed. Preferably, the
chassis 202 and the base 234 are configured such that the top
surface of the chassis 202 is disposed within the open top of the
base 234, and the housing formed by the combination of the chassis
202 and the base 234 resembles a conventional pillar candle.
[0070] Similar to the first embodiment, the housing of the second
embodiment also preferably includes an emission aperture aligned
with the atomizer assembly 208. Specifically, because in this
embodiment the atomizer is arranged below the top 202a of the
chassis 202, the emission aperture 236 is formed through the top
202a of the chassis 202. In this manner, liquid atomized within the
housing may be released into the ambient environment.
[0071] Again, similar to the first embodiment, means are also
provided for adjusting the amount of substance emitted by the
emitter 208 and for turning the LED 206 on and off. As shown in
FIGS. 6 and 7, a slidable switch 228, in communication with the
microcontroller that controls the atomizer assembly 208, is
disposed on the lower portion 202c of the chassis 202. The slidable
switch 228 is manually adjustable between multiple positions to
regulate the frequency at which the atomizer assembly 208 emits the
substance contained in the reservoir 226. In addition, a push
button 230 is disposed on the top 202a of the chassis 202 for
turning the LED 206 on an off.
[0072] As will be appreciated from the figures, because the
controls, i.e., the circuit boards and microcontroller, associated
with the atomizer assembly 208 and the LED 206 are disposed within
the lower portion 202c of the chassis 202, and the atomizer
assembly 208 and the push button 230 are disposed proximate to the
top 202a of the chassis 202, electrical wires are provided to
convey controls from the lower portion 202c of the chassis 202 to
the atomizer 280, and a post 252 is provided for transmitting the
actuation of the push button 230 disposed on the top 202a of the
chassis 202 to a switch on the circuit board that turns the LED 206
on and off. In a similar regard, as it may also be beneficial to
have the slider switch 228 for adjusting emission of the fluid
contained in the reservoir 226 disposed on the top of the housing
(for example, for ease of access for the user), it may also be
necessary to provide a mechanical, an electrical, and/or an
electromechanical means for connecting the slider switch and the
appropriate controls.
[0073] According to this second embodiment, a light and substance
emitting device 200 is provided. Preferably, as mentioned above,
the housing (i.e., the combined chassis 202 and base 234) of the
device 200 is configured and sized to resemble a conventional
pillar candle. As should be understood, since the LED 206 emitting
the flickering light is disposed within the housing, much of the
light will be transmitted through the sidewall of the base 234.
Accordingly, at least a portion of the base 234 should be light
transmissive. In addition, at least a portion of the chassis 202
may also be light transmissive. To these ends, all or a portion of
the chassis 202 and/or the base 234 may be formed of one or more of
glass, plastic, wax, and the like.
[0074] Variations of this second embodiment are also contemplated.
For example, while the holder 234 is generally cylindrical, such is
not required. Rectangular, square, and a myriad of other shapes and
sizes are contemplated. In addition, while the chassis 202 is
inserted through a top of the base 234, such is not required. For
example, the base may be open at the bottom, such that the base is
slid over the chassis 202, or the base 234 and chassis 202 may be
integrally formed, with access panels for replacing the reservoir
226, battery 218, and the like.
[0075] A third embodiment of our invention will now be described
with reference to FIGS. 8A-8C, 9, and 10. In this embodiment a
preferred light and substance emitting device 300 of our invention
includes a chassis 302 comprising a chassis cover 302a and a
chassis base 302b which together form a cavity that encases each of
two LEDs 306a, 306b, a fragrance emitter 308, two batteries 318,
and a printed circuit board with microcontroller 310. The LEDs
306a, 306b are connected either directly or indirectly to both of
the batteries 318 and the microcontroller 310. While the alignment
of the fragrance emitter 308, the batteries 318, and the
microcontroller 310 within the chassis 302 is not critical, each of
these components is preferably located below a top surface of the
chassis cover 302a. Also, the LEDs 306a, 306b are preferably
located substantially centrally with respect to a top surface of
the device, and above the fragrance emitter 308, the batteries 318,
and the microcontroller 310, i.e., on a side of the fragrance
emitter 308, the batteries 318, and the microcontroller 310
opposite to the chassis base 302b. At least a portion of the LEDs
306a, 306b are preferably located above a top surface of the
chassis cover 302a. By placing the LEDs 306a, 306b above the other
components in this manner, the emission of light is not impeded by
these components, so shadows are substantially prevented, and a
more realistic-looking flame is created.
[0076] Although the alignment of the various features within the
chassis 302 is not critical, the chassis 302 preferably includes a
horizontal platform 342 (preferably disposed on the chassis base
302b) for aligning the fragrance emitter 308 within the chassis
302. The platform 342 preferably has a platform aperture 344
therethrough with one or more cutouts 346 formed on a periphery of
the platform aperture 344. Preferably, the replaceable reservoir
326 comprises one or more nubs 348 (one corresponding to each of
the cutouts 346 formed in the platform 342) formed on the reservoir
326. To insert a reservoir 326, a portion of the reservoir 326 is
passed through the platform aperture 344 of the platform 342, with
the nubs 348 passing through the cutouts 346. Once the nubs 348
clear the cutouts 346, the reservoir 326 is rotated such that the
nubs 348 rest on the upper surface of the platform 342. Also, as
discussed above, attached to the top of the platform 342 is the
wire like-support 466 (not shown in FIGS. 8A-8C) that supports the
atomizer assembly 308.
[0077] Further, inner surfaces of the chassis 302 may contain
various protrusions. These protrusions are preferably provided to
aid in properly aligning various components within the chassis 302
and/or to protect components within the chassis 302. For example, a
vertical protrusion 350 (shown in FIG. 8C) partitions an area for
containing the fragrance emitter 308 from an area having the
microcontroller 310. In this fashion, the microcontroller 310 is
not accessible when the reservoir 326 is replaced, and,
accordingly, inadvertent damage to, or accidental contamination of,
the microcontroller 310 is averted.
[0078] The chassis cover 302a is designed such that it can be
placed on the chassis base 302b, thus forming a unitary device 300.
A protrusion or tip 324 is preferably disposed approximately
centrally on the chassis cover 302a. The tip 324 extends generally
axially, in a direction away from the chassis base 302b and forms a
cavity in which the LEDs 306a, 306b are disposed when the chassis
cover 302a is placed on the chassis base 302b. (As discussed above,
the LEDs 306a, 306b are preferably arranged one on top of the
other.) The tip 324 is substantially conical in shape and is
preferably made of a material that diffuses the light emitted by
the LEDs 306a, 306b. However, it may be desirable to alter the
shape of the protrusion, when, for example, more than two LEDs are
used, or the housing is relatively wide. For instance, the tip 324
may be more dome-shaped when a wider tip 324 is used with a wide
device 300 (so as to keep the tip 324 relatively close to the
chassis 302).
[0079] The tip 324 is preferably between approximately one-eighth
of one inch and approximately three inches high and between
approximately one-eighth of one inch and approximately three inches
wide. The remainder of the device 300 is preferably between about
two inches and about ten inches high and preferably between about
one and one-half inches and about six inches wide. Thus configured,
the device 300 can substantially take on the size and shape of
various conventional candles, while the tip 324, by encapsulating
the LEDs 306a, 306b, simulates a flame.
[0080] The chassis cover 302a also includes an emission aperture
336 therethrough. When the chassis cover 302a is placed on the
chassis base 302b, the emission aperture 336 aligns with the
fragrance emitter 308. In particular, the emission aperture 336 is
formed such that a fragrance dispensed by the fragrance emitter 308
passes through the chassis cover 302a to the ambient air, i.e., the
chassis cover 302a does not impede the dissemination of the
fragrance from the fragrance emitter 308.
[0081] The chassis cover 302a is preferably secured to the chassis
base 302b, although such is not required. For example, as shown in
FIG. 8A, the chassis cover 302a may be removably attached to the
chassis base 302b such that access to, for example, the reservoir
326 and/or the batteries 318, may be gained for replacement
purposes. When the chassis cover 302a is removably attachable to
the chassis base 302b, a locking mechanism may be employed. For
example, attractive magnets may be situated on the chassis cover
302a and the chassis base 302b, or the chassis cover 302a may
include a feature that is designed for compatibility with a mating
feature of the chassis base 302b. In this manner, only specific
covers and bases can be used.
[0082] In another aspect, we contemplate that the chassis base 302b
and the chassis cover 302a, when secured together to form the
unitary device 300, may be relatively movable. Specifically, when
the chassis cover 302a is cylindrical, it may be rotatable on the
chassis base 302b. For example, the rotation of the chassis cover
302a may turn on and off the LEDs 306a,306b and/or the fragrance
emitter 308.
[0083] As an alternative to the removable chassis cover 302a, when,
for example, a new scent is desired or the reservoir 326 is empty,
the device 300 may include a hatchway for purposes of replacing the
reservoir 326. Examples of two contemplated hatchways 338a, 338b
are illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10, respectively.
[0084] As shown in FIG. 9, the hatchway 338a may be located on the
side of the device 300. The hatchway 338a is preferably hinged and
is not completely removable from the device 300. As shown, the
hatchway 338a may be opened to gain access to the reservoir
326.
[0085] Alternatively, the hatchway 338b may be formed on the bottom
of the device 300. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, a
substantially circular hatchway 338b is removable from the device
300. In this configuration, the reservoir 326 is preferably coupled
to the hatchway 338b. By coupling the reservoir 326 thereto, the
hatchway 338b supports the reservoir 326, and, when assembled,
ensures appropriate positioning of the wick 464 with respect to the
atomizer assembly 308. Specifically, when the hatchway 338b is
removed, the wick 464 of the reservoir 326 is removed from contact
with the atomizer assembly 308. The reservoir 326 is then removed
from the hatchway 338b, a new reservoir 326 is coupled to the
hatchway 338b, and the hatchway 338b is reattached, with the
reservoir 326 properly aligning with the atomizer assembly 308.
When the hatchway 338b of FIG. 10 is used, it may be unnecessary
for the horizontal platform 342 to support and to align the
reservoir 326, as the hatchway 338b will perform these functions.
As such, the horizontal platform 342 will support the atomizer
assembly 308, either directly, or preferably, with the wire-like
support 466 discussed above.
[0086] The chassis base 302b may also include one or more apertures
340 through which user control switches pass. A toggle switches
332, for example, allows a user to turn on and off one or more of
the fragrance emitter 308 and the LEDs 306a, 306b, and a slider
switch 328 allows a user to adjust the rate at which fragrance is
emitted from the fragrance emitter 308. Alternatively or
additionally, switches may also be provided that allow a user to
adjust the light emission properties of the LEDs 306a, 306b, or to
change an emitted light show.
[0087] Thus, the third embodiment provides a still further light
and substance emitting device 300. As with first and second
embodiments described above, the device 300 may be configured to
mimic the size and shape of a conventional candle.
[0088] As should thus be apparent, in each of the preferred
embodiments, a unitary housing comprises a device that emits both a
flickering light and a substance, such as a fragrance, to the
ambient air. As discussed above, in a preferred embodiment of our
invention, the device is inserted into a holder. Much like typical
replaceable votive candles would be placed into decorative holders,
our invention also provides unique holders for use with lighting
devices according to our invention.
[0089] FIG. 5 shows the device 100 of the first embodiment in a
holder 104. Specifically, the holder 104 has a globe-like shape,
with a bottom, and an open top, similar to a conventional holder
for a votive candle. The unitary housing comprising the combination
of the chassis 102 and the base 134 is placed inside the holder
104, through the open top of the holder 104. Preferably, at least a
portion of the holder 104 allows light to be emitted therethrough.
FIGS. 11 and 12A-12D show some representative alternative holder
304 configurations into which a light and fragrance emitting device
300 can be placed. These examples are by no means limiting.
[0090] When a fragrance emitter is used, the emitted fragrance
should also be emitted from the holder, and it is thus preferred
that the holder provide ample ventilation. In particular, the light
and fragrance emitting device is preferably arranged in the holder
such that the emission aperture through which the fragrance is
dispensed is between about one inch (25.4 mm) and about six inches
(152.4 mm) from the top of the holder and substantially away from
the inner surface of the holder. More preferably, the emissive
aperture is between substantially flush with and about five inches
(127.0 mm) from the top of the holder. With such an arrangement,
buildup of fragrance on the inside of the holder is minimized.
Moreover, the holder may be designed to aid the flow of the
fragrance to the ambient environment. By tapering the holder such
that the width of the holder narrows nearer the top of the holder,
airflow will increase as it leaves the holder. Furthermore, we
prefer that the holder not impede the emission of light from the
LEDs. Specifically, the unitary housing is preferably arranged in
the holder such that the tip (as used in the first and third
embodiments, discussed above) is between about one-half of one inch
(12.7 mm) and about two inches (50.8 mm) from the holder, and
preferably closer than one inch (25.4). The holder may also act as
a diffuser. Furthermore, we envision that the holder could further
include, for example, a fan for aiding in further dispersion of the
fragrance emitted from the fragrance emitter.
[0091] The holder may comprise a single piece into which the
housing is placed. Alternatively, as shown in FIGS. 12A-12D, a
holder 304 may also comprise a holder base 304a and a holder cover
304b. More specifically, the device is contained within, or
alternatively comprises, the holder base 304a that receives and
supports the holder cover 304b. The holder cover 304b, when
supported by the holder base 304a, covers the tip 324. That is,
light emitted from the housing by the respective illumination
devices also passes through the holder cover 304b. Alternatively,
the housing, e.g. the top 324, may not diffuse emitted light, and
only the holder cover 304b diffuses emitted light.
[0092] As a specific example of this embodiment, as shown in FIG.
12A, a holder base 304a containing a unitary device as described
above in the preferred embodiments has a circumferential lip 304c
extending radially outwardly from the holder base 304a. At least a
lower portion 304d of the holder cover 304b is sized so as to
engage the lip 304c of the holder base 304a, thereby resting the
holder cover 304b on the holder base 304a. Other illustrative
examples of holders 304 are shown in FIGS. 12B-12D.
[0093] While we envision that the holder cover 304b may rest on the
holder base 304a, it is preferable that the holder cover 304b
detachably attach to the holder base 304a. For example, the holder
cover 304b may be designed to snap onto the holder base 304a.
Alternatively, the holder cover 304b and the holder base 304a may
be designed such that the holder cover 304b is rotated onto the
holder base 304a, forming a locking engagement. In this or any
configuration, the holder cover 304b may be relatively movable when
secured to the holder base 304a. Specifically, when the holder
cover 304b is generally cylindrical, it may be rotatable on the
holder base 304a to turn the LEDs 306a, 306b and/or the fragrance
emitter 308 on and off. Additionally, the engagement and
disengagement of the holder cover 304b and the holder base 304a may
act to turn the light source and/or substance emitter on and off.
In this manner, the device would only operate with the holder cover
304b attached. Moreover, the holder cover 304b and holder base 304a
may be specially designed such that only certain covers 304b can be
used with the holder base 304a. For instance, the holder base 304a
may include a reader (not shown) that reads an ID (e.g., an RF tag)
of the holder cover 304b. In this manner, the device will not work
unless the holder cover 304b has an appropriate ID.
[0094] When using the holder 304 according to this embodiment, we
also envision that the holder cover 304b could emit a fragrance
therefrom. For example, impregnable materials such as polyolefins
are known that may be impregnated or infused with a fragrance. By
forming the holder cover 304b of such a material, the holder cover
304b will emit a fragrance over time in addition to that emitted by
the fragrance emitter 308. Alternatively, the device of this
embodiment could not include the fragrance emitter 308, in which
case, only the holder cover 304b will emit a fragrance. Also, with
respect to the second embodiment described above, we note that the
combination of chassis and base resembles a decorative candle, in
which case a holder may not be desired. In such a case the base or
chassis may be impregnated with a fragrance.
[0095] Because the holder cover 304b of this embodiment is
removable, access to the device is facilitated (for example, to
turn the LEDs 306a, 306b, on or off) and the holder cover 304b can
be easily replaced. For example, when the fragrance impregnated in
the holder cover 304b is completely disseminated, a fresh, new
holder cover 304b can easily be purchased and attached. Also, a
user that has recently redecorated, or that wants to move the
device to another room, may purchase a holder cover 304b having a
certain color or other aesthetic feature. Moreover, replacement
holder covers 304b may provide different smells. In other
embodiments, the entire holder (or base) may be replaced.
[0096] While several preferred embodiments have been set forth
above, many different embodiments may be constructed without
departing from the spirit and scope of our invention. Our invention
is not limited to the specific embodiments described above. To the
contrary, our invention is intended to cover various modifications
and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of
our invention as defined by the claims. The claims are to be
accorded the broadest scope, so as to encompass all such
modifications, equivalent structures, and functions.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0097] Our invention provides a device for light and/or fragrance
emission. The device an overall desired aesthetic ambience in an
area, such as a room.
* * * * *