U.S. patent application number 10/656807 was filed with the patent office on 2006-11-23 for methods and systems for illuminating household products.
This patent application is currently assigned to Color Kinetics, Inc.. Invention is credited to Michael K. Blackwell, Charles H. Cella, Kevin J. Dowling, Josh Strauss.
Application Number | 20060262516 10/656807 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39475468 |
Filed Date | 2006-11-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060262516 |
Kind Code |
A9 |
Dowling; Kevin J. ; et
al. |
November 23, 2006 |
Methods and systems for illuminating household products
Abstract
Methods and systems are provided herein for illuminating a
variety of household products and other items using
color-controlled illumination systems that include lights under the
control of processors.
Inventors: |
Dowling; Kevin J.;
(Westford, MA) ; Cella; Charles H.; (Pembroke,
MA) ; Strauss; Josh; (Evanston, IL) ;
Blackwell; Michael K.; (Milton, MA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
WOLF GREENFIELD & SACKS, PC
FEDERAL RESERVE PLAZA
600 ATLANTIC AVENUE
BOSTON
MA
02210-2206
US
|
Assignee: |
Color Kinetics, Inc.
Boston
MA
|
Prior
Publication: |
|
Document Identifier |
Publication Date |
|
US 20050036300 A1 |
February 17, 2005 |
|
|
Family ID: |
39475468 |
Appl. No.: |
10/656807 |
Filed: |
September 5, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10245786 |
Sep 17, 2002 |
6965205 |
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10656807 |
Sep 5, 2003 |
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10325635 |
Dec 19, 2002 |
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10656807 |
Sep 5, 2003 |
|
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09716819 |
Nov 20, 2000 |
7014336 |
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10325635 |
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60408309 |
Sep 5, 2002 |
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60452767 |
Mar 7, 2003 |
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60353569 |
Feb 1, 2002 |
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60235678 |
Sep 27, 2000 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
362/101 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47G 21/02 20130101;
F21Y 2115/10 20160801; F21K 9/00 20130101; A47G 19/2227 20130101;
A61L 9/03 20130101; H05B 45/325 20200101; A61L 9/12 20130101; A61L
9/14 20130101; A47G 2200/08 20130101; A01M 1/2038 20130101; F21W
2121/006 20130101; A61L 2209/12 20130101; F21S 8/035 20130101; F21V
33/00 20130101; A01M 1/04 20130101; A47G 2019/2238 20130101; H05B
45/20 20200101; A01M 1/2077 20130101; H05B 45/28 20200101; A61L
9/048 20130101; A61L 9/125 20130101; F21S 10/04 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
362/101 |
International
Class: |
F21V 33/00 20060101
F21V033/00 |
Claims
1. A method of providing illumination for a household product,
comprising: providing a light system under the control of a
processor for providing illumination of a selected color; and
disposing the illumination system in proximity to the household
product to light a feature of the household product.
2. A method of claim 1, wherein the feature of the household
product is a container.
3. A method of claim 2, wherein the container is a spray
container.
4. A method of claim 2, wherein the light systems are disposed in
at least one of the bottom of the container, the neck of the
container, the interior of the container, the top of the container,
and the nozzle of the container.
5. A method of claim 2, wherein the container contains a fluid.
6. A method of claim 5, wherein the fluid is selected from the
group consisting of water, ammonia, bleach, window cleaner, insect
repellant, insect killer, lotion, soap, liquid soap, kitchen
cleaner, bathroom cleaner, shaving gel, cleaning fluid, lighter
fluid, furniture polish, wood treatment, paint, primer, drain
cleaner, disinfectant, room deodorizer, carpet deodorizer, room
scent, perfume, cologne, shaving foam, toilet cleaner, aerosol,
skin care fluid, suntan lotion, shampoo, surface cleaner, and
liquid wax.
7. A method of claim 5, wherein the light system changes the color
of the fluid in response to the processor.
8. A method of claim 5, wherein the container is a spray container,
and wherein the light system illuminates the spray of fluid coming
from the container.
9. A method of claim 8, wherein the light system is configured to
produce a rainbow effect on the spray.
10. A method of claim 8, wherein the light system changes the color
of the spray in response to the processor.
11. A method of claim 2, wherein the container is an aerosol
can.
12. A method of claim 1, wherein the household product is selected
from the group consisting of a pencil, a pen, a fork, a knife, a
spoon, a kitchen utensil, a whisk, a broom, a bottle, a glass, a
mug, a coffee maker, a toothpaste tube, a dispenser, a shampoo
bottle, a soap holder, a razor, an electric razor, a hair dryer, a
picture frame, a marker, a jar, a makeup facility, a perfume
dispenser, a brush, a lipstick, and a candle.
13. A method of claim 12, wherein the processor changes light to
indicate data related to the product.
14. A method of claim 13, wherein the data relates to the freshness
of the product.
15. A method of claim 13, wherein the data relates to the efficacy
of the product.
16. A method of claim 1, wherein the processor is responsive to a
network.
17. A method of claim 1, wherein the processor responds to data
directed to an address.
18. A method of claim 1, wherein the processor is responsive to a
sensor.
19. A method of claim 1, wherein the color is a color temperature
of white illumination.
20. A method of claim 1, wherein the household product further
comprises an optical facility for operating on light emitted from
the lighting system.
21. A method of claim 20, wherein the optical facility is selected
from the group consisting of a lens, a mirror, a liquid lens, a
spinning mirror, a fresnel lens, a convex lens, a concave lens, a
fiber optic, and a light pipe.
22. A system for providing illumination for a household product,
comprising: a light system under the control of a processor for
providing illumination of a selected color; and a household product
in proximity to the light system, so that the light system lights a
feature of the household product.
23. A system of claim 22, wherein the feature of the household
product is a container.
24. A system of claim 23, wherein the container is a spray
container.
25. A system of claim 24, wherein the light systems are disposed in
at least one of the bottom of the container, the neck of the
container, the interior of the container, the top of the container,
and the nozzle of the container.
26. A system of claim 23, wherein the container contains a
fluid.
27. A system of claim 26, wherein the fluid is selected from the
group consisting of water, ammonia, bleach, window cleaner, insect
repellant, insect killer, lotion, soap, liquid soap, kitchen
cleaner, bathroom cleaner, shaving gel, cleaning fluid, lighter
fluid, furniture polish, wood treatment, paint, primer, drain
cleaner, disinfectant, room deodorizer, carpet deodorizer, room
scent, perfume, cologne, shaving foam, toilet cleaner, aerosol,
skin care fluid, suntan lotion, shampoo, surface cleaner, and
liquid wax.
28. A system of claim 26, wherein the light system changes the
color of the fluid in response to the processor.
29. A system of claim 26, wherein the container is a spray
container, and wherein the light system illuminates the spray of
fluid coming from the container.
30. A system of claim 29, wherein the light system is configured to
produce a rainbow effect on the spray.
31. A system of claim 29, wherein the light system changes the
color of the spray in response to the processor.
32. A system of claim 23, wherein the container is an aerosol
can.
33. A system of claim 22, wherein the household product is selected
from the group consisting of a pencil, a pen, a fork, a knife, a
spoon, a kitchen utensil, a whisk, a broom, a bottle, a glass, a
mug, a coffee maker, a toothpaste tube, a dispenser, a shampoo
bottle, a soap holder, a razor, an electric razor, a hair dryer, a
picture frame, a marker, a jar, a makeup facility, a perfume
dispenser, a brush, a lipstick, and a candle.
34. A system of claim 33, wherein the processor changes light to
indicate data related to the product.
35. A system of claim 34, wherein the data relates to the freshness
of the product.
36. A system of claim 35, wherein the data relates to the efficacy
of the product.
37. A system of claim 22, wherein the processor is responsive to a
network.
38. A system of claim 22, wherein the processor responds to data
directed to an address.
39. A system of claim 22, wherein the processor is responsive to a
sensor.
40. A system of claim 22, wherein the color is a color temperature
of white illumination.
41. A system of claim 22, wherein the household product further
comprises an optical facility for operating on light emitted from
the lighting system.
42. A system of claim 41, wherein the optical facility is selected
from the group consisting of a lens, a mirror, a liquid lens, a
spinning mirror, a fresnel lens, a convex lens, a concave lens, a
fiber optic, and a light pipe.
43. A method of providing insect control, comprising: providing a
light system with a plurality of LEDs and a processor for
controlling a color of light from the LEDs; and providing an insect
control facility in connection with the light system.
44. A method of claim 43, wherein the insect control facility
comprises at least one of a roach motel, a flypaper, a mosquito
net, a tiki torch, a mosquito coil, a bug zapper, a deck light, and
a pool light.
45. A method of claim 43, wherein the processor is used to control
the light system to produce light of a selected frequency.
46. A method of claim 43, wherein the frequency is a color
temperature of white light.
47. A method of claim 43, wherein the frequency is designed to
attract insects of a selected type.
48. A method of claim 43, wherein the frequency is designed to
repel insects of a selected type.
49. A method of claim 43, wherein the insect control facility is
configured a wand that contains the light system and that sprays
insect spray.
50. A system for providing insect control, comprising: a light
system with a plurality of LEDs and a processor for controlling a
color of light from the LEDs; and an insect control facility in
connection with the light system.
51. A system of claim 50, wherein the insect control facility
comprises at least one of a roach motel, a flypaper, a mosquito
net, a tiki torch, a mosquito coil, a bug zapper, a deck light, and
a pool light.
52. A system of claim 50, wherein the processor is used to control
the light system to produce light of a selected frequency.
53. A system of claim 50, wherein the frequency is a color
temperature of white light.
54. A system of claim 50, wherein the frequency is designed to
attract insects of a selected type.
55. A system of claim 50, wherein the frequency is designed to
repel insects of a selected type.
56. A system of claim 50, wherein the insect control facility is
configured a wand that contains the light system and that sprays
insect spray.
57. A method of providing illumination for a toilet, comprising:
providing a light system with a plurality of LEDs and a processor
for controlling a color of light from the LEDs; and disposing the
light system in connection with a toilet.
58. A method of claim 57, wherein disposing the light system
comprises disposing it on the seat of the toilet.
59. A method of claim 57, wherein disposing the light system
comprises disposing it in the toilet bowl.
60. A method of claim 57, wherein disposing the light system
comprises disposing it in a rack above the toilet bowl.
61. A method of claim 57, wherein disposing the light system
comprises disposing it in connection with an odor control
facility.
62. A system for providing illumination for a toilet, comprising: a
light system with a plurality of LEDs and a processor for
controlling a color of light from the LEDs; and a toilet, wherein
the light system is disposed to illuminate a portion of the
toilet.
63. A system of claim 63, wherein the light system is disposed on
the seat of the toilet.
64. A system of claim 63, wherein the light system is disposed in
the toilet bowl.
65. A system of claim 63, wherein the light system is disposed in a
rack above the toilet bowl.
66. A system of claim 63, wherein the light system is disposed in
connection with an odor control facility.
67. A method of providing illumination for an appliance,
comprising: providing a light system with a plurality of LEDs and a
processor for controlling a color of light from the LEDs; and
disposing the light system in connection with an appliance.
68. A method of claim 67, wherein the appliance is selected from
the group consisting of a toilet, a faucet, a shower, a tub, a
sink, an appliance, a refrigerator, an oven, a microwave, a
counter, a drawer, a cabinet, a floor, a ceiling, a wall, a chair,
a desk, a table, a washer, a dryer, a mixer, a blender, and a
toaster.
69. A method of claim 68, wherein the light system responds to a
sensor associated with the appliance.
70. A method of claim 69, wherein the sensor is a heat sensor and
the light illuminates to indicate that the appliance is hot.
71. A system for providing illumination for an appliance,
comprising: a light system with a plurality of LEDs and a processor
for controlling a color of light from the LEDs; and an appliance in
connection with which the light system provides illumination for
part of the appliance.
72. A system of claim 71, wherein the appliance is selected from
the group consisting of a toilet, a faucet, a shower, a tub, a
sink, an appliance, a refrigerator, an oven, a microwave, a
counter, a drawer, a cabinet, a floor, a ceiling, a wall, a chair,
a desk, a table, a washer, a dryer, a mixer, a blender, and a
toaster.
73. A system of claim 72, wherein the light system responds to a
sensor associated with the appliance.
74. A system of claim 73, wherein the sensor is a heat sensor and
the light illuminates to indicate that the appliance is hot.
75. A method of providing illumination for a toothbrush,
comprising: providing a light system with a plurality of LEDs and a
processor for controlling a color of light from the LEDs; and
disposing the light system in connection with a toothbrush.
76. A method of claim 75, wherein the toothbrush is provided with a
light-transmissive material.
77. A system for illumination for a toothbrush, comprising: a
toothbrush, and a light system with a plurality of LEDs and a
processor for controlling a color of light from the LEDs to light
the toothbrush.
78. A system of claim 77, wherein the toothbrush is made of a
light-transmissive material.
79. A method of providing a candle, comprising: providing a light
system with a plurality of LEDs and a processor for controlling a
color of light from the LEDs; shaping the light system to fit a
candle; and providing a removable base for the candle, so that the
candle produces color-changing effects.
80. A method of claim 79, wherein the color changing effect is
changing a color temperature of white illumination.
81. A candle, comprising: a light system with a plurality of LEDs
and a processor for controlling a color of light from the LEDs
shaped to fit a candle; and a removable base for the candle, so
that the candle produces color-changing effects.
82. A candle of claim 81, wherein the color changing effect is
changing a color temperature of white illumination.
83. A method of packaging merchandise, comprising: providing a
light system with a plurality of LEDs and a processor for
controlling a color of light from the LEDs; and disposing the light
system in connection with packaging for an item of merchandise.
84. A method of claim 83, wherein the packaging is selected from
the group consisting of a can, a container, a box, a package, and a
shrinkwrap package.
85. A method of claim 83, wherein the item of merchandise is
selected from the group consisting of a household cleaner, a wax, a
shampoo, a soap, a razor, a toothbrush, a light bulb and a skin
care product.
86. A packaging system for merchandise, comprising: a light system
with a plurality of LEDs and a processor for controlling a color of
light from the LEDs; and packaging for an item of merchandise,
wherein the light system lights a portion of the packaging.
87. A system of claim 86, wherein the packaging is selected from
the group consisting of a can, a container, a box, a package, and a
shrinkwrap package.
88. A system of claim 86, wherein the item of merchandise is
selected from the group consisting of a household cleaner, a wax, a
shampoo, a soap, a razor, a toothbrush, a light bulb and a skin
care product.
89. A method of providing illumination for a razor, comprising:
providing a light system with a plurality of LEDs and a processor
for controlling a color of light from the LEDs; and disposing the
light system in connection with the razor.
90. A method of claim 89, wherein the razor is provided with a
light-transmissive material.
91. An illuminated razor, comprising: a razor; and a light system
with a plurality of LEDs and a processor for controlling a color of
light from the LEDs to light a portion of the razor.
92. A razor of claim 91, wherein the razor is made of a
light-transmissive material.
93. A method of providing illumination for a broom, comprising:
providing a light system with a plurality of LEDs and a processor
for controlling a color of light from the LEDs; and disposing the
light system in connection with the broom.
94. A method of claim 93, wherein the broom is provided with a
light-transmissive material.
95. An illuminated broom, comprising: a broom; and a light system
with a plurality of LEDs and a processor for controlling a color of
light from the LEDs to light a portion of the broom.
96. A broom of claim 95, wherein the broom is made of a
light-transmissive material.
97. A method of providing illumination for a showerhead,
comprising: providing a light system with a plurality of LEDs and a
processor for controlling a color of light from the LEDs; and
disposing the light system in connection with the showerhead.
98. A method of claim 89, wherein the showerhead is provided with a
light-transmissive material.
99. An illuminated showerhead, comprising: a showerhead; and a
light system with a plurality of LEDs and a processor for
controlling a color of light from the LEDs to light at least one of
a portion of the showerhead and water coming from the
showerhead.
100. A showerhead of claim 91, wherein the showerhead is made of a
light-transmissive material.
101. A method of providing illumination for an animal collar,
comprising: providing a light system with a plurality of LEDs and a
processor for controlling a color of light from the LEDs; and
disposing the light system in connection with the animal
collar.
102. A method of claim 101, wherein the animal collar is provided
with a light-transmissive material.
103. An illuminated animal collar, comprising: a collar; and a
light system with a plurality of LEDs and a processor for
controlling a color of light from the LEDs to light at least one of
a portion of the collar.
104. A collar of claim 103, wherein the collar is made of a
light-transmissive material.
105. A method of providing illumination for a chemical, comprising:
providing a light system with a plurality of LEDs and a processor
for controlling a color of light from the LEDs; and lighting the
chemical with the light system, wherein the light interacts with
the chemical to create an effect.
106. A method of claim 105, wherein the effect is generated by a
luminescent facility of the chemical.
107. A method of claim 105, wherein the effect is used to confirm
that a chemical has been applied over a given surface.
108. A method of claim 105, wherein the chemical is at least one of
an insect repellant, a deck sealer, a lotion, a medicine and a
suntan lotion.
109. An illumination system for a chemical, comprising: a light
system with a plurality of LEDs and a processor for controlling a
color of light from the LEDs; and a chemical, wherein the light
interacts with the chemical to create an effect.
110. A system of claim 109, wherein the effect is generated by a
luminescent facility of the chemical.
111. A system of claim 109, wherein the effect is used to confirm
that a chemical has been applied over a given surface.
112. A system of claim 109, wherein the chemical is at least one of
an insect repellant, a deck sealer, a lotion, a medicine and a
suntan lotion.
113. A method of providing illumination and scent, comprising:
providing a light system with a plurality of LEDs and a processor
for controlling a color of light from the LEDs; and providing a
scent-producing facility for producing coordinated illumination and
scent.
114. A method of claim 113, wherein coordination is by a
network.
115. A method of claim 113, wherein the scent-producing facility is
an air freshener.
116. A method of claim 113, wherein the scent is correlated with
illumination that reflects at least one of a similar aesthetic
condition, an emotional state, an environmental condition, and a
data item.
117. A system for providing illumination and scent, comprising: a
light system with a plurality of LEDs and a processor for
controlling a color of light from the LEDs; and a scent-producing
facility for producing coordinated illumination and scent.
118. A system of claim 117, wherein coordination is by a
network.
119. A system of claim 117, wherein the scent-producing facility is
an air freshener.
120. A system of claim 117, wherein the scent is correlated with
illumination that reflects at least one of a similar aesthetic
condition, an emotional state, an environmental condition, and a
data item.
121. A method of illuminating a fluid household product,
comprising: providing a container for the fluid household product;
providing a light system in operative connection with the
container, the light system comprising a light and a processor and
being capable of producing illumination of a plurality of colors
under control of the processor; and illuminating the fluid using
the light system.
122. A method of claim 121, wherein the light system illuminates a
spray of fluid coming from the container.
123. A method of claim 121, wherein the container is transparent
and the light system illuminates fluid in the container.
124. A method of claim 121, wherein the light system lights a
package for the container.
125. A system for illuminating a fluid household product,
comprising: a container for the fluid household product; a light
system in operative connection with the container, the light system
comprising a light and a processor and being capable of producing
illumination of a plurality of colors under control of the
processor; and wherein the light system illuminates the fluid.
126. A system of claim 125, wherein the light system illuminates a
spray of fluid coming from the container.
127. A system of claim 125, wherein the container is transparent
and the light system illuminates fluid in the container.
128. A system of claim 125, wherein the light system lights a
package for the container.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit, under 35 U.S.C.
.sctn.119(e), of the following U.S. Provisional Applications:
[0002] Ser. No. 60/408,309, filed Sep. 5, 2002, entitled "Methods
and Systems for Illuminating Household Products;" and
[0003] Ser. No. 60/452,767, filed Mar. 7, 2003, entitled "Light
Emitting Diode Based Products."
[0004] This application also claims the benefit, under 35 U.S.C.
.sctn.120, as a continuation-in-part (CIP) of the following U.S.
Non-provisional Applications:
[0005] Ser. No. 10/245,786, filed Sep. 17, 2002, entitled "Light
Emitting Diode Based Products;" and
[0006] Ser. No. 10/325,635, filed Dec. 19, 2002, entitled
"Controlled Lighting Methods and Apparatus."
[0007] Each of the foregoing applications are hereby incorporated
herein by reference.
BACKGROUND
[0008] Lighting elements often are used to illuminate a variety of
consumer products, including wearable accessories, novelty items,
or the like. Existing illuminated products, however, are generally
only capable of exhibiting fixed illumination with one or more
light sources. An existing wearable accessory, for example, might
utilize a single white-light bulb as an illumination source, with
the white-light shining through a transparent colored material.
Such accessories only exhibit an illumination of a single type (a
function of the color of the transparent material) or at best, by
varying the intensity of the bulb output, a single-colored
illumination with some range of controllable brightness. Other
existing systems, to provide a wider range of colored illumination,
may utilize a combination of differently colored bulbs. Such
accessories, however, remain limited to a small number of different
colored states.
SUMMARY
[0009] Applicants have generally recognized and appreciated that a
variety of consumer products, including but not limited to
household products and items, appliances and equipment associated
with appliances, wearable accessories, novelty items, toys, games
and the like may benefit from improved color illumination
processing, and/or networking attributes. High-brightness LEDs,
combined with a processor for control, can produce a variety of
pleasing effects for display and illumination. Accordingly, one
embodiment of the present invention relates to using
high-brightness, processor-controlled LEDs in combination with
diffuse materials to produce color-changing effects in connection
with a variety of consumer products, including household items.
[0010] Methods and systems are provided for illuminating a fluid
household product. The methods and systems include providing a
container for the fluid household product, providing a light system
in operative connection with the container, the light system
comprising a light and a processor and being capable of producing
illumination of a plurality of colors under control of the
processor, and illuminating the fluid using the light system. The
light system can illuminate a spray of fluid coming from the
container. The light systems can illuminate fluids in transparent
containers. The light systems can illuminate packaging for a
household product.
[0011] A wide range of household products can benefit from methods
and systems for color changing illumination.
[0012] Methods and systems are provided herein for illuminating
packaging, including packaging for household products.
[0013] Methods and systems are provided herein for illuminating
fluids, including liquids, visible gases and vapors, including all
of those present in household products and household facilities,
such as household water systems.
[0014] Methods and systems are provided herein for illuminating
chemicals.
[0015] Methods and systems are provided herein for illuminating
chemical household products.
[0016] Methods and systems are provided herein for illuminating
products, including household products.
[0017] Methods and systems are provided herein for providing
illumination for household products. Embodiments include a light
system under the control of a processor for providing illumination
of a selected color and disposing the illumination system in
proximity to the household product to light a feature of the
household product. In embodiments the product includes a container,
such as a spray container, with the light system placed in the
bottom of the container, the neck of the container, the interior of
the container, the top of the container, or the nozzle of the
container. The container may contain a fluid, such as water,
ammonia, bleach, window cleaner, insect repellant, insect killer,
lotion, soap, liquid soap, kitchen cleaner, bathroom cleaner,
shaving gel, cleaning fluid, lighter fluid, furniture polish, wood
treatment, paint, primer, drain cleaner, disinfectant, room
deodorizer, carpet deodorizer, room scent, perfume, cologne,
shaving foam, toilet cleaner, aerosol, skin care fluid, suntan
lotion, shampoo, surface cleaner, and liquid wax. In embodiments
the light system changes the color of the fluid in response to the
processor. In embodiments the light system illuminates the spray of
fluid coming from the container. In embodiments the spray produces
a rainbow effect. In embodiments, the color of light changes in
response to the processor. The container may be an aerosol can.
Color changes may include different color temperatures of white
light.
[0018] In embodiments, the household product may be a pencil, a
pen, a fork, a knife, a spoon, a kitchen utensil, a whisk, a broom,
a bottle, a glass, a mug, a coffee maker, a toothpaste tube, a
dispenser, a shampoo bottle, a soap holder, a razor, an electric
razor, a hair dryer, a picture frame, a marker, a jar, a makeup
facility, a perfume dispenser, a brush, a lipstick, a candle or
another household product.
[0019] In embodiments the processor changes light to indicate data
related to the product, such as data about freshness or efficacy.
The processor may respond to a network, including to addressable
data. The processor may respond to a sensor.
[0020] Methods and systems may further include an optical facility
for directing light, such as a lens, a mirror, a liquid lens, a
spinning mirror, a fresnel lens, a convex lens, a concave lens, a
fiber optic, and a light pipe.
[0021] Methods and systems are provided for insect control,
including methods and systems for providing a light system with a
plurality of LEDs and a processor for controlling a color of light
from the LEDs; and providing an insect control facility in
connection with the light system. The insect control facility can
be a roach motel, a flypaper, a mosquito net, a tiki torch, a
mosquito coil, a bug zapper, a deck light, a pool light or other
facility. The processor can be used to control the light system to
produce light of a selected frequency, including white light
frequencies, such as to attract or repel selected insects. The
insect control facility can be configured as a wand that contains
the light system and that sprays insect spray.
[0022] Illumination methods and systems are provided herein for
illuminating toilets, razors, brooms, animal collars, toothbrushes,
candles, showerheads, and other household items.
[0023] Methods and systems are provided for illuminating an
appliance, such as a faucet, a shower, a tub, a sink, an appliance,
a refrigerator, an oven, a microwave, a counter, a drawer, a
cabinet, a floor, a ceiling, a wall, a chair, a desk, a table, a
washer, a dryer, a mixer, a blender, and a toaster. In embodiments,
the light system responds to a sensor associated with the
appliance, such as a heat sensor, such as to indicate that the
appliance is hot.
[0024] Methods and systems are provided for packaging merchandise,
including methods and systems for providing a light system with a
plurality of LEDs and a processor for controlling a color of light
from the LEDs and for disposing the light system in connection with
packaging for an item of merchandise. In embodiments the packaging
is a can, a container, a box, a package, or a shrinkwrap package.
In embodiments, the merchandise is a household cleaner, a wax, a
shampoo, a soap, a razor, a toothbrush, a light bulb or skin care
product.
[0025] Methods and systems are provided for illuminating chemicals,
including methods and systems for providing a light system with a
plurality of LEDs and a processor for controlling a color of light
from the LEDs and for lighting the chemical with the light system,
wherein the light interacts with the chemical to create an effect.
In embodiments the effect is generated by a luminescent facility of
the chemical. In embodiments the effect is used to confirm that a
chemical has been applied over a given surface. In embodiments, the
chemical is an insect repellant, a deck sealer, a lotion, a
medicine or a suntan lotion.
[0026] Methods and systems are provided for providing illumination
and scent. Included are methods and systems for providing a light
system with a plurality of LEDs and a processor for controlling a
color of light from the LEDs and for providing a scent-producing
facility for producing coordinated illumination and scent. In
embodiments coordination is by a network. In embodiments the
scent-producing facility is an air freshener. In embodiments the
scent is correlated with illumination that reflects at least one of
a similar aesthetic condition, an emotional state, an environmental
condition, and a data item.
[0027] Methods and systems are provided for illuminating a fluid
household product. The methods and systems include providing a
container for the fluid household product, providing a light system
in operative connection with the container, the light system
comprising a light and a processor and being capable of producing
illumination of a plurality of colors under control of the
processor, and illuminating the fluid using the light system. In
embodiments the light system illuminates a spray of fluid coming
from the container. In embodiments the container is transparent and
the light system illuminates fluid in the container. In embodiments
the light system lights a package for the container.
[0028] The following patents and patent applications are hereby
incorporated herein by reference:
[0029] U.S. Pat. No. 6,016,038, issued Jan. 18, 2000, entitled
"Multicolored LED Lighting Method and Apparatus;"
[0030] U.S. Pat. No. 6,211,626, issued Apr. 3, 2001 to Lys et al,
entitled "Components,"
[0031] U.S. Pat. No. 6,608,453, issued Aug. 19, 2003, entitled
"Methods and Apparatus for Controlling Devices in a Networked
Lighting System;"
[0032] U.S. Pat. No. 6,548,967, issued Apr. 15, 2003, entitled
"Universal Lighting Network Methods and Systems;"
[0033] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/344,699, filed Jun. 25,
1999, entitled "Method for Software Driven Generation of Multiple
Simultaneous High Speed Pulse Width Modulated Signals;"
[0034] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/805,368, filed Mar. 13,
2001, entitled "Light-Emitting Diode Based Products;"
[0035] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/716,819, filed Nov. 20,
2000, entitled "Systems and Methods for Generating and Modulating
Illumination Conditions;"
[0036] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/675,419, filed Sep. 29,
2000, entitled "Systems and Methods for Calibrating Light Output by
Light-Emitting Diodes;"
[0037] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/870,418, filed May 30,
2001, entitled "A Method and Apparatus for Authoring and Playing
Back Lighting Sequences;"
[0038] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/045,629, filed Oct. 25,
2001, entitled "Methods and Apparatus for Controlling
Illumination;"
[0039] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/158,579, filed May 30,
2002, entitled "Methods and Apparatus for Controlling Devices in a
Networked Lighting System;"
[0040] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/325,635, filed Dec. 19,
2002, entitled "Controlled Lighting Methods and Apparatus;"
[0041] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/360,594, filed Feb. 6,
2003, entitled "Controlled Lighting Methods and Apparatus;" and
[0042] U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/415,897, filed Oct.
3, 2002, entitled "Methods and Apparatus for Illuminating
Environments."
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0043] FIG. 1 depicts a group of LEDs under the control of a
processor for providing color changing illumination.
[0044] FIG. 2 depicts a spray container with optional light systems
for providing an illumination facility.
[0045] FIG. 3 depicts a spray bottle with light systems for
providing an illumination facility.
[0046] FIG. 4 depicts a spray bottle with a light system and an
optics facility.
[0047] FIG. 5 depicts an optical effect of a liquid particle on a
light ray.
[0048] FIG. 6 depicts an insect control facility with an
illumination facility.
[0049] FIG. 7 depicts a toilet with an illumination facility.
[0050] FIG. 8 depicts a toothbrush with an illumination
facility.
[0051] FIG. 9 depicts a liquid bottle with an illumination
facility.
[0052] FIG. 10 depicts a candle with an illumination facility in a
removable base.
[0053] FIG. 11 depicts a package for merchandise with an
illumination facility.
[0054] FIG. 12 depicts a wand with an illumination facility and a
spray facility.
[0055] FIG. 13 depicts a razor with an illumination facility.
[0056] FIG. 14 depicts broom with an illumination facility.
[0057] FIG. 15 depicts a showerhead with an illumination
facility.
[0058] FIG. 16 depicts an animal collar with an illumination
facility.
[0059] FIG. 17 depicts an illumination facility for use in
interaction with an application of a chemical.
[0060] FIG. 18 depicts an appliance with an illumination
facility.
[0061] FIG. 19 illustrates one example of a scent producing
apparatus incorporating an illumination source, according to one
embodiment of the invention.
[0062] FIGS. 20A, B, and C illustrate various features related to a
scent cartridge of the apparatus of FIG. 19, according to one
embodiment of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0063] FIG. 1 depicts an illumination system 100 with a group of
lights 102 under the control of a processor 104 for providing
color-changing illumination. Control can be provided through a wide
variety of facilities. Optional system elements can include
facilities for networking light systems 100, including a network
108 (which can be a wired or wireless network, bus, circuit, or
similar facility) and a control system 110, which could be a
personal computer or other computer system. Methods and systems for
networked and non-networked computer control of illumination
systems 100 are described in the patents and patent applications
referenced above and incorporated by reference herein.
[0064] The lights 102 can be LEDs or other illumination systems. In
preferred embodiments, LEDs can be used.
[0065] An illumination system 100 consisting of a plurality of LEDs
102 combined with a processor 104 can be disposed in many different
environments, including those that relate to household
products.
[0066] FIG. 2 depicts a spray container 200 with light systems 100
for providing illumination to different portions of the spray
container 200. The spray container 200 generates a spray 202 of a
fluid 204 that is stored in the interior of the spray container
200. Light systems 100 can be disposed in the bottom 208 of the
container 200, in the neck 210 of the container 200, or elsewhere
in the interior or on the exterior of the container 200. In
embodiments, the container 200 is a can, such as an aerosol
can.
[0067] In embodiments, the container 200 can be made of a clear
material, so that the interior fluid 204 is illuminated by the
light systems 100. The fluid 204 can be clear, or substantially
transparent or translucent, so that it takes on a color that is
altered by the light from the light systems 100 in the bottom 208
of the container 200.
[0068] In embodiments, the light systems in the neck 210 of the
container 200 light the fluid 204 as it sprays from the container
200, so that the spray is an illuminated spray, optionally a
color-changing illuminated spray.
[0069] The fluid 204 can be any fluid, such as fluid useful in a
household products, such as water, ammonia, bleach, window cleaner,
insect repellant, insect killer, lotion, soap, liquid soap, kitchen
cleaner, bathroom cleaner, shaving gel, cleaning fluid, lighter
fluid, furniture polish, wood treatment, paint, primer, drain
cleaner, disinfectant, room deodorizer, carpet deodorizer, room
scent, perfume, cologne, shaving foam, toilet cleaner, aerosol,
skin care fluid, suntan lotion, shampoo, surface cleaner, and
liquid wax.
[0070] FIG. 3 depicts a spray bottle 300 with light systems 100 for
providing a illumination. The spray bottle 300 may include a bottom
302, with light systems 100 and/or a neck 304 with light systems
100. The light systems 100 in the bottom 302 can light a fluid 308
that is stored in the spray bottle 300. The bottle 300 can be
clear, so that a light system 100 illuminates the fluid in colors.
The light systems 100 in the neck 304 can illuminate a spray 310 of
the fluid 308 in color-changing illumination conditions.
[0071] As with fluids in a can or similar container 200, the fluid
308 can be any fluid, such as fluid useful in a household products,
such as water, ammonia, bleach, window cleaner, insect repellant,
insect killer, lotion, soap, liquid soap, kitchen cleaner, bathroom
cleaner, shaving gel, cleaning fluid, lighter fluid, furniture
polish, wood treatment, paint, primer, drain cleaner, disinfectant,
room deodorizer, carpet deodorizer, room scent, perfume, cologne,
shaving foam, toilet cleaner, aerosol, skin care fluid, suntan
lotion, shampoo, surface cleaner, after shave and liquid wax.
[0072] Thus, the fluid 308 can be illuminated either in the bottle
300 or in a spray 310 or stream that is sprayed from the bottle
300.
[0073] FIG. 4 depicts a spray bottle 400 with a light system 100 in
the neck 402. The system also includes an optics facility 404, such
as a mirror or lens, that reflects light from the spray bottle 400
in a ray 408. The ray 408 can illuminate a spray coming from the
bottle, or it can be directed otherwise from the bottle 400, such
as out the top, or down into the fluid in the bottle 400. The
optics facility 404 is one of many optional optics facilities 404,
such as mirrors, lenses, and the like, that can be used to
manipulate light from a light system 100 disposed on or in a
household product, such as a container 200, or bottle 300, 400.
[0074] FIG. 5 depicts an optical effect of a fluid particle 500 on
a light ray 502. A fluid particle 500 can reflect or refract light
502, resulting in redirection of the light, and in some cases
changing the color of the light, such as in a rainbow effect.
Sprays and streams of fluid coming from a household products,
faucet, or shower head can be illuminated by light systems 100,
creating aesthetically pleasing effects, due to the interaction of
light from the light systems 100 with the fluids.
[0075] FIG. 6 depicts an insect control facility 600 with an
illumination facility. A light system 100 can be disposed on the
insect control facility 600. Insects respond to light of different
frequencies. The light from the light systems 100 can be used to
attract or repel insects. The control facility 600 can be used in a
roach motel, mosquito net, tiki torch, mosquito coil, bug zapper,
deck light, pool light or other insect control facility 600.
[0076] FIG. 7 depicts a toilet 700 with an illumination facility.
The toilet 700 can include one or more light systems 100. For
example, a light system 100 can be disposed to light the water in
the bowl 704. A light system 100 could also be used to light an
odor control mechanism, such as a bar or puck 702 that is disposed
in a rack above the bowl. A light system 100 can be disposed in a
ring 708 in the bowl. A light system can be used to illuminate
water in other locations in the house, such as a bathtub, sink or
fountain.
[0077] In general, a light system 100 can be used to light any
household object or appliance, such as a toilet, faucet, shower,
tub, sink, appliance, refrigerator, oven, microwave, counter,
drawer, cabinet, floor, ceiling, wall, chair, desk, table, washer,
dryer, mixer, blender, toaster, or the like.
[0078] Lights systems 100 can be used to provide color-controlled
illumination to common household products. FIG. 8 depicts a
toothbrush 800 with an illumination facility including light
systems 100. The toothbrush can be provided with clear,
transparent, translucent or similar materials to permit color
changes through the light systems 100. Household products include a
wide variety of items that can benefit from color changing effects,
such as, in addition to the toothbrush, a pencil, a pen, a fork, a
knife, a spoon, a kitchen utensil, a whisk, a broom, a bottle, a
glass, a mug, a coffee maker, a toothpaste tube, a dispenser, a
shampoo bottle, a soap holder, a razor, an electric razor, a hair
dryer, a picture frame, a marker, a jar, a makeup facility, a
perfume dispenser, a brush, a lipstick, and a candle.
[0079] FIG. 9 depicts a bottle 900 with an illumination facility.
The light systems 100 can light the interior 902 or exterior 904 of
the bottle 900. The bottle 900 can be made of materials needed to
allow the light systems 100 to provide attractive, aesthetic, or
attention-getting effects. The light systems 100 can illuminate a
fluid 908 in the interior. Lighting the fluid 908 can provide a
pleasing effect, or can attract attention to the bottle on a
merchandise shelf. The fluid in the bottle 900 can be any fluid,
such as those described above, such as liquid soap, or another
fluid, such as water, ammonia, bleach, window cleaner, insect
repellant, insect killer, lotion, soap, liquid soap, kitchen
cleaner, bathroom cleaner, shaving gel, cleaning fluid, lighter
fluid, furniture polish, wood treatment, paint, primer, drain
cleaner, disinfectant, room deodorizer, carpet deodorizer, room
scent, perfume, cologne, shaving foam, toilet cleaner, aerosol,
skin care fluid, suntan lotion, shampoo, after shave, surface
cleaner, and liquid wax.
[0080] One use of a light system 100 in connection with a container
200, or bottom 300, 400 or 900, or in connection with any other
disposable product or product with limited useful life, is as an
indicator of a condition of the product. The light system 100 can
be coupled with a sensor for sensing a condition of the product, or
with a timer for measuring time, or the like. For example a light
system can illuminate when a chemical product is no longer working
well, such as an odor control chemical. A light system 100 can
illuminate in a certain way when a product has reached a certain
age. A light system 100 can illuminate in a certain way when a
container is nearly empty. Thus, a light system 100 can be used to
provide information to a consumer using a product, such as a
household product, about the condition of the product itself. A
wide range of product characteristics can be measured and indicated
by light systems 100 under the control of a processor 104.
[0081] FIG. 10 depicts a candle 1000 with an illumination facility
in a removable base 1002. The light systems 100 illuminate the
candle 1000, providing color-changing effects. The base 1002 can
hold the light systems 100, so that disposable candles 1000 can be
used with one base 1002. Many other disposable household objects
can be disposed on a base 1002 to provide illumination, such as
odor control items, scent-producing items, sprays, fluids, soaps
and the like. A glass can be disposed on the base 1002 to
illuminate any fluid in it, such as those described above.
[0082] FIG. 11 depicts a package 1100 for merchandise. The package
1100 can include light systems 100 to provide an illumination
facility for the package 1100. The package 1100 can be illuminated
on the shelf to attract attention to any product or merchandise,
such as any product that can be provided in a can, container, or
box. The product can be a household cleaner, wax, shampoo, soap,
razor, toothbrush, skin care product, or any other household or
other product described herein or found on retail shelves.
[0083] FIG. 12 depicts a wand 1200 with a light system 100 for
illumination and a spray facility 1202. The wand 1200 includes a
housing 1204 that is translucent or transparent, so that it glows
in the color produced by light from the light system 100. The wand
1200 also includes a spray facility 1202 for spraying a fluid from
a reservoir 1208. The fluid can be any fluid, such as those
mentioned above. In an embodiment, the wand sprays insect
repellant, and the light system 100 illuminates the spray, as well
as the exterior housing 1204 of the wand 1200.
[0084] FIG. 13 depicts a razor 1300 with an illumination facility.
A light system 100 lights a housing 1302, which may be made of
transparent or translucent material, so that the light system 100
changes the color of the housing 1302 under control of a processor
104 of the light system 100.
[0085] FIG. 14 depicts broom 1400 with an illumination facility. A
light system 100 is disposed in the handle 1402 of the broom 1402.
The light system 100 can light the handle 1402, which can be made
of a transparent or translucent material to accept color changes
from the light system 100. The light system 100 can also be used to
light in another direction, such as toward the floor when the broom
1400 is in use. The broom 1400 could be a push broom, hand broom,
brush, or similar facility with a handle 1402 and bristles
1404.
[0086] FIG. 15 depicts a showerhead 1500 with an illumination
facility. A light system 100 with lights 102, such as LEDs, and a
processor 104, can be disposed in the neck 1502 of the showerhead.
The light system 100 can illuminate the water spray from the
showerhead 1500. Similarly, a light system 100 could be used to
illuminate a water spray from a faucet, such as that of a sink or
tub.
[0087] FIG. 16 depicts an animal collar 1600 with an illumination
facility. A light system 100 can illuminate the collar, or
illuminate the area around the collar. The collar can be a flea
collar or similar insect control collar, or it can be a
conventional collar.
[0088] FIG. 17 depicts an illumination facility 1700 for use in
interaction with an application of a chemical 1702. Light from the
illumination facility 1700 can be provided in any color of the
spectrum, under control of a processor 104. Thus, the light can
interact with the chemical 1702 to create an effect. For example, a
chemical can include a luminescent portion that lights under light
of a given spectrum. Such a luminescent facility could be used to
confirm, with an illumination facility 1700 that a chemical has
been applied over all of a given surface, such as a surface covered
with insect repellant, a deck sealer, or a suntan lotion.
[0089] FIG. 18 depicts an appliance 1800 with an illumination
facility. The appliance 1800 may be an oven, microwave oven,
refrigerator, washer, dryer, toaster, or other appliance. The light
system 100 can be used to light the appliance 1800 or an interior
or exterior environment of or about the appliance 1800. The light
system 100 can be coupled with a sensor to sense an environmental
condition and to display illumination that indicates the condition.
For example, an oven can light in a red color if it is hot. Sensor
and feedback applications are described more particularly in
certain patents and patent applications incorporated by reference
herein.
[0090] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, an
illumination system is disposed in combination with a
scent-producing facility. Together with a processor or processors,
this combination allows simultaneous or coordinated production of
controlled scent and illumination. In embodiments, the
scent/illumination device can be employed in conjunction with a
network. In embodiments, the device may be provided with
addressable control facilities. In embodiments, the devices can be
employed using data delivery protocols such as DMX and power
protocols such as pulse width modulation. In embodiments, the
devices may be equipped with a communications facility, such as a
transmitter, receiver, transceiver, wireless communications
facility, wire, cable, or connector. Thus, the device can store,
manipulate and otherwise handle data, including instructions that
facilitate controlled illumination or controlled scent, or both.
The device may also, in embodiments, receive control signals from
another source, such as a user interface, an external computer, a
sensor, or the like.
[0091] A wide variety of illumination and display effects can be
employed in connection with the scent producing facility, ranging
from color washes, to rainbow effects, to rapid changes in color,
and the like. The scents can also be controlled whereby different
chemicals are triggered to respond to an input signal (e.g.
Digiscents Inc. multi-scent devices) and a `smell wash` or smell
sequence synchronous with a color wash or color sequence can be
activated.
[0092] In other embodiments, the illumination can reflect a sensed
condition, such as a condition sensed in the environment of the
scent-producing facility. In other embodiments, the illumination
can reflect a condition of the scent-producing facility, such as
remaining life of the device, the remaining amount of
scent-producing materials or chemicals, the quality of the scent,
the strength of scent, battery life, or the like.
[0093] The scent-producing facility may be an air freshener or
other scent-producing facility that may optionally plug into a room
outlet. In embodiments, the scent may be varied in response to data
received by the device, as controlled by a processor that also
controls the illumination.
[0094] The scent-producing facility can be programmed to produce
scents in concert with the illumination; thus, a scent may be
correlated with illumination that reflects a similar aesthetic
condition, emotional state, environmental condition, data item, or
other object or characteristic. For example, a pine scent could be
coupled with green illumination, while a pumpkin scent could be
coupled with orange illumination. Thus, a wide range of correlated
colors and scents can be provided in a device where one or more
processors controls both scent and illumination.
[0095] In an embodiment, the device is a combined air freshener and
color-changing night-light, with a processor for control of the
illumination condition of the night light, and with LEDs providing
the source of illumination for the night light.
[0096] In an embodiment, a gel may be presented and a color
changing illumination system may be directed to illuminate the gel.
For example, there are many fragrances, deodorants, and the like
that are made into gels. This gel can be made into most any shape
and an illumination system may be used to project light through the
gel. In an embodiment, the gel may appear to be glowing in
colors.
[0097] In an embodiment, the gel or other material may evapaorate
over time and as the material evaporates, the light levels captured
by the material may diminish. This will result in the light levels
decreasing as the material evaporates giving an indication of
material life. In an embodiment, the light may actually appear when
the evaporation, or other process, has removed a portion of the
material.
[0098] In an embodiment, the illumination may be associated with a
sensor. Such a sensor may measure or indicate germ, bacteria or
other contamination levels and cause an illumination system to emit
certain lighting conditions. An embodiment may be a color changing
"germ alert sensors" that would hang in the toilet or trashcan,
etc. Example: as your tidy bowl reached the terrifying point of not
flooding the sewer lines with chlorine at every flush, your tiny
tricolor LED would pulse RED hues to alert you.
[0099] Another aspect of the present invention is providing light
from an apparatus that is coordinated with a scent generation
portion of the apparatus. For example, the apparatus may be a
plug-in style air freshener and the light produced by the air
freshener may be colored to coordinate with the type of scent being
emitted. The light emitted from an evergreen scented air freshener
may be greenish blue for example. Another aspect of the present
invention is providing an indication of useful life of a portion of
a system. The system, an air freshening system for example, may
have a life limited air cartridge and an indication of life may be
provided. The indication of life may be provided through a certain
lighting pattern for example.
[0100] An embodiment of the present invention is a scent producing
apparatus with an illumination source 1900. One such device is
illustrated in FIG. 19. The illumination source, or system, may be
similar to that described above as illumination system 100. The
illumination system 100 may be arranged to produce color
controllable illumination through an optic 1908 for example. The
scent producing apparatus 1900 may be adapted to plug into a
conventional wall power outlet through an adapter 1910. The
apparatus 1900 may include a vented portion 1914 to facilitate the
emission of scent from a scent cartridge 1902 once installed.
[0101] According to one aspect of the invention, the scent
producing apparatus 1900 may be adapted to read, or otherwise
identify, certain characteristics of the scent cartridge. For
example, it may identify the type of cartridge, the scent to be
produced by the cartridge, the date of manufacture, date of
installation, serial number or other parameter. In an embodiment,
the scent producing apparatus may be adapted to alter the color,
pattern, intensity or other parameter of the light emitted by the
illumination system 100. For example, the cartridge 1902 may be
encoded to identify the type of scent it produces. The scent
producing apparatus 1900 may read the code and alter the light it
produces to match the type of scent. The scent may be deemed an
evergreen scent and the light emitted from the illumination system
100 may be altered to be green or blue for example. The light may
also have a temporal effect such as to alternate between a green
and blue or generate some other pattern intended to coordinate with
the scent.
[0102] In another embodiment, the scent producing apparatus 1900
may also monitor the duration the cartridge 1902 is in the scent
producing apparatus 1900 or otherwise monitor the effectiveness of
the cartridge. Once the effectiveness, or lapsed time, indicates
the cartridge should be changed, the illumination system 100 may be
adapted to change the lighting pattern, color, intensity or other
parameter it is producing. This method of operation may be useful
indicating to a user that the cartridge is due to be changed. In an
embodiment, the apparatus 1900 may include a user interface 1912,
much like the user interface 1 identified above. The user interface
1912 may be used to override the indication light to provide normal
illumination or alter the illumination to accommodate his/her
desires. In an embodiment, the illumination system 100 may be
adapted to stay in an override operation mode for a preset period
of time. For example, the preset period may be three days, such
that the light stays in the override lighting pattern for three
days and then automatically converts back to the end of usefulness
indication. This may be useful to allow a user to go into an
override mode for a period of time but automatically be reminded
that the cartridge needs to be renewed. In an embodiment, the user
may set the time of the override and/or the user may have the
option of electing an override period that does not automatically
end.
[0103] In an embodiment, the apparatus 1900 may have a set of
contacts 1920. The contacts 1920 may be associated with a processor
in the apparatus 1900 (e.g. processor 104 of the illumination
system 100). The processor 104 may be adapted to monitor the
contacts 1920 for activity or association characteristics with a
cartridge 1902. For example, the contacts 1920 may be on a rear
interior wall of the apparatus 1900 and the cartridge 1902 may have
conductive strips 2002 on the rear wall of the cartridge 1904. The
illustrations in FIGS. 20 A and B show different patterns of
conductive strips 2002 on the rear wall of the cartridge 1904. The
illustration in FIG. 20 A may represent the conductive strip
pattern associated with an evergreen scent cartridge while the
illustration in FIG. 20 B may represent a raspberry scent
cartridge. When a cartridge 1902 with the pattern 2002 of FIG. 20A
is inserted into the apparatus 1900, the contacts 1920 will sense
the pattern and the processor 104 can adjust the color of the light
emitted accordingly. For example, the bottom protrusion of pattern
2002 may be aligned with one of the contacts 1920 in an array of
contacts and the upper protrusion of pattern 2002 may be associated
with another contact 1920 of the array. Depending on the placement
of the upper pattern, for example, may dictate which contact in the
array is associated with the pattern. The processor 104 may then
recognize the pattern and adjust the lighting accordingly. This is
but one example of a system designed to recognize a cartridge type
of many that are envisioned by the applicant and encompassed by the
present invention. For example, FIG. 20 C illustrates another such
method.
[0104] FIG. 20 C illustrates the rear wall 1904 of a cartridge
1902. The rear wall 1904 may include three electrically conductive
pads. Pads 2004 may be designed to bring power to a circuit on the
cartridge 1902 and the third pad 2010 may be a data pad for the
circuit. These three pads may be associated with a circuit (e.g.
integrated circuit) and the integrated circuit may be adapted to
output data to the data pad, which in turn may be associated with
the processor 104 in the apparatus 1900. The integrated circuit may
be adapted to produce data indicative of the cartridge type, scent,
manufacturing date, installation date, lapsed time that the
cartridge received power (e.g. measure of time in use), or other
parameter. The circuit may include a counter and once the counter
reaches a particular point it may indicate it is time to change the
cartridge through a display of a certain lighting pattern, or it
may make a sound or provide some other type of alert. The timing
system may provide several indications of remaining usefulness so
the user can become informed as to the state (e.g. the cartridge is
80% spent) and time the replacement accordingly.
[0105] In an embodiment, the apparatus 1900 may be programmed to
display a color of light that is an indication of useful remaining
life of the cartridge. For example, the light may be blue when the
cartridge is new or full and it may gradually, or in some other
predetermined way, change through a rainbow of colors until it
reaches red where red indicates the cartridge has reached the end
of its useful life. The user interface 1912 may allow a user to
select such a mode, for example.
[0106] In an embodiment, the apparatus 1900 may include a switch
1918 where the switch 1918 is depressed, or otherwise activated,
when the cartridge 1902 is loaded into the apparatus. The processor
2 may monitor the activation of the switch 1918 as an indication of
the cartridge 1902 being loaded. From this indication, the
apparatus 1900 may monitor or predict certain events. For example,
the processor 2 may begin a timing circuit in an effort to predict
the useful life of the cartridge 1902. In an embodiment, the switch
may be associated with a mechanism or circuit to indicate whether
the cartridge has been removed during a power down cycle. For
example, the switch may be associated with a dial where the
position of the dial can be read. When the apparatus 1900 is
re-powered, the processor 104 may check the dial position and
compare to the position indication of the dial before power-down to
indicate if the cartridge has been removed. If the cartridge was
removed, the processor may automatically start a new timer for the
prediction of cartridge life expectancy. In an embodiment, the
processor may also provide an indication (e.g. certain lighting
pattern) that it believes the cartridge has been changed and ask
for a user confirmation through the user interface 1912.
[0107] While the invention has been described in connection with
certain preferred embodiments, other embodiments will be readily
understood by those of ordinary skill in the art and are
encompassed herein.
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