U.S. patent application number 11/683008 was filed with the patent office on 2007-09-27 for flame simulating assembly.
This patent application is currently assigned to DIMPLEX NORTH AMERICA LIMITED. Invention is credited to Martyn Champ, Kristoffer Hess, Michael Jach.
Application Number | 20070224561 11/683008 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38278680 |
Filed Date | 2007-09-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070224561 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hess; Kristoffer ; et
al. |
September 27, 2007 |
FLAME SIMULATING ASSEMBLY
Abstract
A flame simulating assembly adapted for storing objects and for
affecting a temperature of the objects. The flame simulating
assembly includes a flame image subassembly for providing one or
more images of flames. The flame image subassembly includes one or
more light sources and a screen positioned in a path of light from
the light source. The screen is adapted for transmission of the
image of flames therethrough. The flame simulating assembly also
includes a body with a chamber therein accessible via one or more
apertures in the body, the objects being receivable in the chamber.
Also, the flame simulating assembly includes one or more
temperature-affecting elements for affecting the temperature of the
objects positioned in the chamber, and a cover portion positionable
on the body to cover the aperture.
Inventors: |
Hess; Kristoffer;
(Cambridge, CA) ; Champ; Martyn; (Cambridge,
CA) ; Jach; Michael; (Kitchener, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
VALENTINE A COTTRILL
50 QUEEN STREET NORTH, STE. 1020
P.O. BOX 2248
KITCHENER
ON
N2H6M2
CA
|
Assignee: |
DIMPLEX NORTH AMERICA
LIMITED
1367 Industrial Road
Cambridge
CA
N1R 7G8
|
Family ID: |
38278680 |
Appl. No.: |
11/683008 |
Filed: |
March 7, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60779966 |
Mar 8, 2006 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
431/125 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F24C 7/004 20130101;
F24C 15/18 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
431/125 |
International
Class: |
F23Q 2/32 20060101
F23Q002/32 |
Claims
1. A flame simulating assembly adapted for storing objects and
affecting a temperature thereof, the flame simulating assembly
comprising: a housing comprising a body portion with at least one
chamber therein accessible via at least one aperture in the body
portion, said objects being receivable in said at least one
chamber; a flame image subassembly for providing at least one image
of flames and disposed at least partially in the housing, the flame
image subassembly comprising: at least one light source; a screen
positioned in a path of light from said at least one light source,
the screen being adapted for transmission of said at least one
image of flames through the screen; at least one
temperature-affecting element for affecting the temperature of said
objects positioned in said at least one chamber; the housing
additionally comprising a cover portion for cooperating with the
body portion to cover at least part of said at least one chamber;
and the cover portion being movable between an open position, in
which said at least one chamber is at least partially exposed, and
a closed position, in which said at least one chamber is at least
partially covered.
2. A flame simulating assembly according to claim 1 in which said
at least one temperature-affecting element comprises at least one
heat source adapted for heating said at least one chamber.
3. A flame simulating assembly according to claim 1 in which the
housing comprises at least one opening through which said at least
one image of flames is viewable.
4. A flame simulating assembly according to claim 3 additionally
comprising a mesh screen, said at least one image of flames being
at least partially viewable through the mesh screen.
5. A flame simulating assembly according to claim 4 in which the
housing comprises at least one door and said at least one door
comprises said at least one opening.
6. A flame simulating assembly according to claim 5 in which the
mesh screen is attached to said at least one door.
7. A flame simulating assembly according to claim 1 in which the
cover portion cooperates with the body portion to substantially
close said at least one aperture when the cover portion is in the
closed position.
8. A flame simulating assembly according to claim 7 additionally
comprising at least one container defining a cavity therein, said
at least one container being at least partially receivable in said
at least one chamber.
9. A flame simulating assembly according to claim 8 in which, when
said at least one container is at least partially received in said
at least one chamber via said at least one aperture: the cover
portion is movable to the closed position; and the cover portion
cooperates with the body portion to substantially close said at
least one aperture.
10. A flame simulating assembly according to claim 8 in which said
at least one container is at least partially thermally
insulated.
11. A flame simulating assembly according to claim 8 in which said
at least one temperature-affecting element comprises at least one
cooling element for cooling the cavity.
12. A flame simulating assembly according to claim 8 in which at
least one cooling element for cooling the cavity is receivable in
said at least one container.
13. A flame simulating assembly according to claim 1 in which said
at least one temperature-affecting element comprises a Peltier
device for alternately heating and cooling said at least one
chamber.
14. A flame simulating assembly according to claim 2 additionally
comprising at least one switch for opening and closing an electric
circuit comprising said at least one heat source, to control
activation of said at least one heat source.
15. A flame simulating assembly according to claim 14 in which said
at least one switch is configured to open the circuit when said at
least one container is at least partially received in said at least
one chamber.
16. A flame simulating assembly according to claim 15 in which said
at least one switch is configured to close the circuit upon removal
of said at least one container from said at least one chamber.
17. A flame simulating assembly according to claim 16 additionally
comprising an exterior switch for controlling the circuit when said
at least one container is absent from said at least one
chamber.
18. A flame simulating assembly according to claim 1 additionally
comprising a flicker element for causing said light from the light
source to flicker, such that said at least one image of flames
flickers.
19. A flame simulating assembly according to claim 1 in which the
flame image subassembly additionally comprises a flame effect
element positioned in a path of light from said at least one light
source between the flicker element and the screen, for configuring
light from said at least one light source to form said at least one
image of flames.
20. A flame simulating assembly according to claim 1 in which the
flame image subassembly comprises a simulated fuel bed positioned
in front of the screen such that said at least one image of flames
appears to be rising from the simulated fuel bed.
21. A flame simulating assembly adapted for storing objects and
affecting a temperature thereof, the flame simulating assembly
comprising: a flame image subassembly for providing at least one
image of flames, the flame image subassembly comprising: at least
one light source; a screen positioned in a path of light from said
at least one light source, the screen being adapted for
transmission of said at least one image of flames through the
screen; a body comprising a chamber therein accessible via at least
one aperture in the body, said objects being receivable in said at
least one chamber; at least one temperature-affecting element for
affecting the temperature of said objects positioned in said at
least one chamber; and a cover portion positionable on the body to
cover the aperture.
22. A flame simulating assembly according to claim 21 in which the
cover portion is movable between an open position, in which said at
least one aperture is at least partially open, and a closed
position, in which said at least one aperture is at least partially
closed.
23. A flame simulating assembly according to claim 21 in which said
at least one temperature-affecting element comprises at least one
heating element adapted for heating said at least one chamber.
24. A flame simulating assembly according to claim 21 additionally
comprising at least one container defining a cavity therein, said
at least one container being at least partially receivable in the
chamber.
25. A flame simulating assembly according to claim 24 in which said
at least one temperature-affecting element comprises a cooling
element for cooling the cavity.
26. A flame simulating assembly according to claim 21 in which said
at least one temperature-affecting element comprises a Peltier
device for heating and cooling said at least one chamber.
Description
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 60/779,966, filed Mar. 8, 2006.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to a flame simulating assembly
adapted for storing objects and for affecting the temperature
thereof.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] In connection with recreational facilities such as pools or
hot tubs (whether indoor or outdoor), there is a need to heat
towels or other such articles for the convenience and comfort of
those coming out of the recreational facility. The heated articles
are made available conveniently proximal to the pool or hot tub, if
possible.
[0004] However, especially in summer, there is also a need for
cooling beverages or other food items until they are consumed in or
near the recreational facility. Preferably, the items are cooled in
a location convenient to a swimming pool, hot tub, or other
recreational facility, which may be indoor or outdoor.
[0005] In the prior art, various devices are known, thermally
insulated and otherwise, which are intended for use proximal to a
recreational facility and adapted for maintaining an object's
temperature within a desired temperature range (e.g., keeping a
towel warm, or cooling a beverage). However, the known devices
typically are not adapted for both heating and cooling, but rather
are intended to either heat objects or to cool them. Also, such
prior art devices are generally not aesthetically pleasing.
[0006] There is therefore a need for a device which mitigates or
overcomes one or more of the defects of the prior art.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] In its broad aspect, the invention provides a flame
simulating assembly adapted for storing objects and for affecting
the temperature of the objects. The flame simulating assembly
includes a housing having a body portion with one or more chambers
therein accessible via one or more apertures in the body portion,
the objects being receivable in the chamber. Also, the flame
simulating assembly includes a flame image subassembly for
providing one or more images of flames and disposed at least
partially in the housing. The flame image subassembly includes one
or more light sources and a screen positioned in a path of light
from the light source, the screen being adapted for transmission of
the image of flames therethrough. In addition, the flame simulating
assembly has one or more temperature-affecting elements for
affecting the temperature of the objects positioned in the chamber.
The housing additionally includes a cover portion for cooperating
with the body portion to cover at least part of the chamber. Also,
the cover portion is movable between an open position, in which the
chamber is at least partially exposed, and a closed position, in
which the chamber is at least partially covered.
[0008] In one of its aspects, the temperature-affecting element
includes one or more heat sources adapted for heating the
chamber.
[0009] In another aspect, the housing includes one or more openings
through which the image of flames is viewable.
[0010] In yet another aspect, the flame simulating assembly
additionally includes a mesh screen, the image of flames being at
least partially viewable through the mesh screen.
[0011] In another aspect, the cover portion cooperates with the
body portion to substantially close the aperture when the cover
portion is in the closed position.
[0012] In another of its aspects, the invention provides a flame
simulating assembly adapted for storing objects and for affecting
the temperature thereof. The flame simulating assembly includes a
flame image subassembly for providing an image of flames, and a
body with a chamber therein accessible via one or more apertures in
the body. The objects are receivable in the chamber. The flame
simulating assembly also includes one or more temperature-affecting
elements for affecting the temperature of the objects positioned in
the chamber, and a cover portion positionable on the body to cover
the aperture.
[0013] In another aspect, the temperature-affecting element
includes one or more heating elements adapted for heating the
chamber.
[0014] In another of its aspects, the flame simulating assembly
additionally includes one or more containers defining a cavity
therein, the container being at least partially receivable in the
chamber.
[0015] In yet another aspect, the temperature-affecting element
includes a cooling element for cooling the cavity.
[0016] In another aspect, the temperature-affecting element
includes a Peltier device for heating and cooling the chamber.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] The invention will be better understood with reference to
the drawings, in which:
[0018] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a flame
simulating assembly of the invention;
[0019] FIG. 2 is a partial cross-section showing the flame
simulating assembly of FIG. 1 and a chamber therein;
[0020] FIG. 3 is a partial cross-section of the flame simulating
assembly of FIG. 1, showing a container positioned in the
chamber;
[0021] FIG. 4 is an isometric view of an alternative embodiment of
the flame simulating assembly of the invention with a cover portion
of the flame simulating assembly in an open position;
[0022] FIG. 5 is an exploded isometric view of the flame simulating
assembly of FIG. 4 showing the container and the chamber;
[0023] FIG. 6A is a schematic diagram of electric circuits included
in the flame simulating assembly of FIG. 1;
[0024] FIG. 6B is a front view of an alternative device for heating
and cooling objects stored in the flame simulating assembly, drawn
at a larger scale;
[0025] FIG. 6C is a side view of the device of FIG. 6B;
[0026] FIG. 7 is an isometric view of an alternative embodiment of
the flame simulating assembly of the invention, drawn at a smaller
scale;
[0027] FIG. 8 is a partial cross-section of another alternative
embodiment of the flame simulating assembly of the invention
showing a chamber therein;
[0028] FIG. 9 is a partial cross-section of the flame simulating
assembly of FIG. 8 showing a container positioned in the
chamber;
[0029] FIG. 10 is a partial cross-section of another alternative
embodiment of the flame simulating assembly of the invention
showing a chamber therein; and
[0030] FIG. 11 is a partial cross-section of the flame simulating
assembly of FIG. 10 showing a container positioned in the
chamber.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0031] Reference is first made to FIGS. 1-6A to describe an
embodiment of a flame simulating assembly in accordance with the
invention indicated generally by the numeral 20. The flame
simulating assembly 20 is adapted for storing objects 21, 23 (FIGS.
2, 3) and for affecting a temperature of the objects, as will be
described. The flame simulating assembly 20 preferably includes a
housing 22 with a body portion 24 having one or more chambers 26
therein accessible via one or more apertures 28 in the body portion
24 (FIG. 5). Also, the flame simulating assembly 20 preferably
includes a flame image subassembly 30 (FIGS. 2, 3) for providing
one or more images of flames 31 (FIGS. 1, 4, 5) and disposed at
least partially in the housing 22. It is preferred that, as can be
seen in FIGS. 2 and 3, the flame image subassembly 30 includes one
or more light sources 32 and a screen 34 positioned in a path of
light 35 (schematically represented by arrows A, B, and C in FIG.
2) from the light source 32. The screen 34 is adapted for
transmission of the image of flames 31 through the screen 34. In
addition, the flame simulating assembly 20 preferably includes a
temperature-affecting element 37 for affecting temperature of the
objects positioned in the chamber 26, as will also be described.
Preferably, the housing 22 also includes a cover portion 40
positionable on the body portion 24 to cover at least part of the
chamber 26 (FIG. 3). The cover portion 40 is movable between an
open position (FIGS. 4, 5), in which the chamber 26 is at least
partially exposed, and a closed position (FIGS. 1-3), in which the
chamber 26 is at least partially covered.
[0032] Preferably, when the cover portion 40 is in the closed
position, the cover portion 40 cooperates with the body portion 24
to substantially close the aperture 28, as will be described. It
will be understood that the cover portion 40 may be mounted on the
body portion 24 in any suitable manner. For example, the cover
portion 40 may be attached to the body portion 24 by a hinge, about
which the cover portion 40 is pivotable. Alternatively, the cover
portion 40 may be detachable or removable from the body portion 24,
i.e., when the cover portion 40 is in the open position.
[0033] The temperature-affecting element 37 may be any device for
changing or maintaining the temperature of the object 21, 23
positioned in the chamber 26. (The object 23 (FIG. 3), which is
positioned in a cavity 52 of a container 50 received in the chamber
26 (as will be described), is considered, for the purposes hereof,
to be positioned in the chamber 26.) Accordingly, the
temperature-affecting element 37 is any one or all of a
heat-producing device, a cooling device, or a device for both
heating and cooling. The temperature-affecting element 37 may, for
example, heat towels 21 up to a desired temperature, and/or
maintain preheated towels at a desired temperature. Similarly, the
temperature-affecting element 37 may cool cans or bottles of
beverages 23 to a desired temperature, and/or maintain cooled cans
or bottles at a desired temperature.
[0034] As can be seen in FIG. 2, in one embodiment, the
temperature-affecting element 37 preferably includes a heat source
48 for heating the chamber 26. The heat source 48 is any suitable
heat source, e.g., a resistive heating element. For example, a
resistive element printed on a base made of mica is suitable. Other
suitable heat sources will occur to those skilled in the art. Also,
the heat source 48 (i.e., the heating element) may be mounted in
the flame simulating assembly 20 in any suitable manner.
[0035] As shown in FIG. 2, the heat source 48 preferably is mounted
on an underside of floor 76 of the chamber 26. The objects 21 to be
heated are placed in the chamber 26 (i.e., positioned on the floor
76 of the chamber 26) in any suitable arrangement, and the heat
source 48 is activated. The cover portion 40 is also positioned to
close the aperture 28. As shown in FIG. 2, the objects 21
preferably are heated by conduction of heat from the floor 76.
However, once the air in the chamber 26 is at a temperature greater
than the ambient temperature, the objects 21 (or portions thereof,
as the case may be) may also be heated by convection within the
chamber 26.
[0036] Any suitable means may be used to prevent overheating of the
objects 21. For instance, a self-regulating heating element (e.g.,
including material having a positive thermal coefficient of
resistance) may be used. However, it is preferred for simplicity
that this is achieved by limiting the amount of power provided to
the heat source 48. For example, in practice, if the power provided
to the heat source 48 is limited to about 75 watts, the heat source
48 provides adequate heat.
[0037] The wall 74 has an inner wall 75, and the floor 76 has an
inner wall 77. The inner walls 75, 77 are positioned for direct
contact with the objects 21 which are to be warmed. It is preferred
that the inner walls 75, 77 are made of steel or any other suitable
metal with good heat-conducting characteristics, and which is
fairly durable. It is desirable that the inner walls 75, 77 conduct
heat reasonably well from the heat source 48, to warm the chamber
26 (and the objects 21 therein) as efficiently as is
practicable.
[0038] As can be seen in FIGS. 1, 4 and 5, the housing 22
preferably is configured so that it generally has the appearance of
a heating appliance, e.g., a wood-burning (or alternatively,
coal-burning) stove. The flame simulation effect is enhanced by the
overall appearance of the housing, i.e., the housing's resemblance
to a stove.
[0039] The flame simulating subassembly 30 is for providing
simulated flames for aesthetic effects, for example, like the flame
simulating assembly disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,642,580 (Hess et
al.), the entire specification of which is hereby incorporated
herein by reference. As can be seen in FIGS. 1, 4, and 5, the
housing 22 preferably includes one or more openings 42 through
which the image of flames 31 is viewable. It is also preferred that
the housing 22 includes doors 43 in which the openings 42 are
located. The doors 43 are openable to allow a user (not shown)
access, so that, for example, cleaning of the flame image
subassembly 30 is relatively easy. Also, because the doors 43 are
openable, access is provided thereby to replace light bulbs
included in the light source 32 in the flame image subassembly 20,
as may be required from time to time.
[0040] In one embodiment, the flame simulating assembly 20
additionally includes a front panel 44 positioned at the opening 42
(or in the opening 42, as the case may be) and in front of the
screen 34, so that the image of flames 31 is at least partially
viewable through the front panel 44. The front panel 44 is made of
any suitable transparent or translucent material.
[0041] However, it is preferred that the flame simulating assembly
20 be provided without the front panel 44, because the lack of
glass in the openings 42 appears to enhance the simulation of a
real fire in the flame simulating assembly 20 (FIG. 1). In
particular, when the flame simulating assembly 20 is located
outdoors, the front panel 44 tends to get dusty (or dirty), and
detracts from the realistic simulation of flames.
[0042] The screen 34 includes a front surface 36 on which, or
through which, the image of flames 31 is viewable. As shown in
FIGS. 1-5, the flame image subassembly 30 preferably includes a
simulated fuel bed 45 positioned in front of, and proximal to, the
front surface 36 of the screen 34. As described, for example, in
the Hess et al. patent, the simulated fuel bed 45 preferably
simulates fuel for an open fire (e.g., wood or coal), and is
positioned so that the image of flames 31 appears to arise from the
simulated fuel bed 45, to simulate a real fire.
[0043] In one embodiment, the front surface 36 is at least
partially reflective, to reflect part of the simulated fuel bed 45,
thereby providing the illusion that the simulated fuel bed extends
behind the screen. The simulation effect is enhanced by a partially
reflective front surface accordingly.
[0044] In an embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the flame simulating
assembly 20 includes a net-like mesh screen 46 positioned in front
of the simulated fuel bed 45 through which mesh screen 46 the image
of flames 31 is at least partially viewable. Preferably, the mesh
screen 46 resembles a metal mesh screen of the type which is
sometimes positioned at the front of a real fireplace, i.e., to
catch sparks from the fire. The mesh screen 46 enhances the
simulation of flames provided by the flame image subassembly 30,
thereby improving the aesthetic appeal of the flame simulating
assembly 20. It is preferred that the mesh screen 46 is attached to
inside surfaces of the doors 43 so that the screen 46 is viewable
through the openings 42. In practice, it has been found that the
most realistic simulation is achieved with only the mesh screen 46
(i.e., in the absence of a front panel 44) positioned in or near
the openings 42 (FIG. 7).
[0045] In the preferred embodiment, the housing 22 is made of sheet
metal, metal parts, and/or suitable plastic components, shaped and
fastened together by any suitable methods. As can be seen in FIGS.
3 and 5, the chamber 26 is defined by walls 74 and one or more
floors 76, which are preferably made of sheet metal. If preferred,
heating elements may be mounted on the walls 74 and/or floor(s) 76,
or built into the walls 74 and/or floor(s) 76. It will also be
understood that the walls 74 and the floor 76 may be insulated as
appropriate, to retard heat transfer out of the chamber 26. The
chamber 26 does not need to be air-tight, or even substantially
air-tight. Although it is preferred that the space (i.e., the
chamber 26) defined by the walls 74, the floor 76, and the cover
portion 40 is substantially enclosed, it has been found to be
satisfactory if the construction of the walls and floor is only to
a typical manufacturing tolerance, so that there may be gaps
between these elements.
[0046] The cover portion 40 preferably cooperates with the body
portion 24 to close the aperture 28 when the cover portion 40 is in
the closed position. However, in normal use, it is not necessary
that the aperture 28 be completely closed, e.g., an air-tight seal
is not required. A more complete closure is desirable, to the
extent that it would tend to limit heat transfer out of the chamber
26 via the aperture 28. But, in order to minimize manufacturing
costs and for the convenience of the user, the fit of the cover
portion 40 in or over the aperture 28 (as the case may be)
preferably is not particularly tight.
[0047] As can be seen in FIGS. 3, 4 and 5, the flame simulating
assembly 20 preferably also includes the container 50 defining the
cavity 52 therein. The container 50 is at least partially
receivable in the chamber 26, as shown in FIGS. 2, 3 and 5. The
container 50 preferably is formed of walls 80 and at least one
floor 82. Preferably, the walls 80 and the floor 82 are formed of a
lightweight but relatively rigid plastic (e.g., a suitable
polyethylene) with a suitable insulating material 84 (e.g.,
polyurethane foam) positioned therein. Also, the container 50
preferably includes handles 86 by which a user (not shown) can
grasp the container 50, and move the container 50 into and out of
the chamber 26, as shown in FIG. 5. The container 50 preferably is
held in the chamber 26 by gravity.
[0048] The container 50 may be made of any suitable materials. It
is preferred that walls 80 be made of a suitable plastic because
such plastic walls are relatively easy to manufacture (i.e., to
form into a desired shape), relatively durable, relatively easy to
clean after use, and relatively inexpensive. Those skilled in the
art would be aware of the materials and techniques which are
suitable.
[0049] When the container 50 is at least partially received in the
chamber 26, the cover portion 40 is movable between an open
position (FIGS. 4, 5), in which the cavity 52 is at least partially
uncovered, and a closed position (FIGS. 1, 3), in which the cover
portion 40 covers the cavity 52 and cooperates with the body
portion 24 to substantially close the aperture 28. As can be seen
in FIG. 3, when the container 50 is received in the chamber 26 and
the objects 23 are positioned in the cavity 52, the objects 23 are
also positioned in the chamber 26.
[0050] Preferably, the cavity 52 (and the objects 23 therein) are
cooled by any suitable temperature-affecting element 37. In one
embodiment, the temperature-affecting element 37 includes a cooling
element 58 which may be positioned as required to cool objects
positioned inside the container, i.e., in the cavity. For instance,
in one embodiment, the container 50 is adapted to receive one or
more cooling elements 58 for cooling the cavity 52. The cooling
elements 58 preferably are portable cooling packs, as is known in
the art. However, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the
art that the cooling elements 58 can be provided in many forms.
[0051] It is also preferred that the flame simulating assembly 20
includes one or more switches 60 for controlling an electric
circuit 62 which includes the heat source 48 (FIG. 6A). Electricity
from a source thereof (not shown) is provided to the heat source 48
via the circuit 62 when the circuit is complete. The heat source 48
preferably includes a suitable resistive element which generates
heat when electric current is passed therethrough.
[0052] Preferably, the flame simulating assembly 20 includes a
magnetic switch assembly 64 (FIG. 6A) which includes first and
second magnets 66, 68. The magnetic switch assembly 64 is
configured to open the circuit 62 when the container 50 is at least
partially received in the chamber 26 (FIG. 3). The second magnet 68
is disposed in a preselected location in the chamber 26 (FIG. 3).
The first magnet 66 is positioned on the container 50 so that, when
the container 50 is received in the chamber 26, the first magnet 66
contacts the second magnet 68 (FIG. 3). As is known in the art,
upon contact of the first and second magnets 66, 68 with each
other, the circuit 62 is open (i.e., broken), so that the electric
circuit 62 does not provide electricity to the heat source 48.
Accordingly, the magnetic switch assembly 64 provides a means for
ensuring that the heat source 48 is not activatable when the
container 50 is received in the chamber 26.
[0053] Preferably, the switch 60 includes a manual switch device 61
mounted for convenience on an exterior surface 63 of the housing 22
(FIG. 2). The switch 60 is not operable to complete the circuit 62
if the circuit is broken due to engagement of the first and second
magnets 66, 68. However, if the switch 61 is in the "on" position
when the container 50 is removed from the chamber 26, then the
circuit 62 is completed, and the heat source 48 is activated.
[0054] As can be seen in FIG. 6A, for safety and as is known in the
art, the flame simulating assembly 20 preferably also includes a
master switch 65 adapted for controlling all the electric circuits
in the flame simulating assembly 20.
[0055] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the light source 32 preferably is
positioned in the housing 22 so that the light source 32 can
provide light in the flame simulating subassembly 30. It will be
understood that the light source 32 also provides heat which
contributes, to a limited extent, to the warming of the chamber 26
(i.e., when the chamber 26 is intended to be warmed). In
circumstances where the container 50 is positioned in the chamber
26 and it is intended to cool the objects, then the heat produced
by the light source 32 still tends to warm the chamber 26 if the
flame image subassembly 30 is simultaneously activated.
[0056] Preferably, the flame image subassembly 30 also includes a
flicker element 38 for causing light from the light source to
flicker or fluctuate, so that the image of flames 31 flickers, to
simulate flames in a real fire. The flicker element 38 preferably
includes a rod with reflective strips attached thereto and rotated
by a motor, as described in the Hess et al. patent.
[0057] It is also preferred that the flame image subassembly 30
additionally includes a flame effect element 73 positioned in the
path of light 35 from the light source 32 between the flicker
element 38 and the screen 34 (FIG. 2), for configuring light from
the light source 32 to form the image of flames 31. Preferably, the
flame effect element 73 has a reflective surface and a flame-like
profile, like the flame effect element having reference numeral
58'' disclosed in PCT application no. PCT/CA97/00299 (published as
WO 97/41393), the entire specification of which is hereby
incorporated herein by reference. (The flame effect element 58'' is
disclosed in FIGS. 15-17 in WO 97/41393, and on page 19, at lines
15-31 thereof.)
[0058] The front panel 44 may be made of glass, if preferred. If
the front panel 44 is included in the flame simulating assembly 20,
then the front panel 44 preferably is tinted to improve the flame
simulating effect. In practice, however, and as noted above, it is
preferred that the flame simulating assembly 20 not include the
front panel 44.
[0059] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that
various devices could be used in the flame simulating assembly 20
as the temperature-affecting element 37 for heating and/or cooling
objects. For example, in one embodiment, the temperature-affecting
element 37 includes one or more Peltier devices 90 (FIGS. 6B, 6C).
As is known, in a Peltier device, the Peltier effect is created by
passing current through two dissimilar metals (or semiconductors)
that are connected to each other at junctions. In a Peltier
cooler/heater, heat is transferred from one side of the device to
the other, and this characteristic is used to heat or cool as
required, as is known in the art.
[0060] As is known, the Peltier device 90 is operated using direct
current, and the direction of the heat transfer effected by the
Peltier device 90 is changed by changing polarity. For example, if
heat is transferred from a first side 91 to a second side 92 when
the current is flowing in a first direction, then heat is
transferred from the second side 92 to the first side 91 when
polarity is reversed. As is known in the art, this is preferably
achieved via operation of a manual switch (not shown). It is also
known in the art that suitably sized fans (not shown) preferably
are provided to distribute heat, in order for the Peltier device to
function properly. For instance, if the Peltier device 90 is
installed in a wall of the chamber (not shown), a means is required
for distributing heat (or the lack thereof, as the case may be)
generated by the device inside the chamber 26, and another means is
required to dissipate heat (or the lack thereof) to the ambient
environment. Such means may be any suitable means, for example, a
heat sink, or a fan, as is known in the art. Also, where the
temperature-affecting element 37 includes the Peltier device 90,
the walls of the chamber 26 preferably are insulated. Peltier
devices are well known in the art. The details of how the Peltier
device 90 is used in the flame simulating assembly 20 would be
readily determinable by one skilled in the art, and therefore it is
not necessary to provide further details regarding the use of the
Peltier device 90 in the flame simulating assembly 20.
[0061] In use, the flame simulating assembly 20 is activated via
the main switch 65, resulting in activation of the flame image
subassembly 30. The image of flames 31 appears to rise from the
simulated fuel bed 45 (FIGS. 1, 4, 5). The image of flames 31 and
the exterior of the housing 22 provide an aesthetic effect, so that
the flame simulating assembly 20 simultaneously heats or cools an
object and provides a pleasing aesthetic effect. The flame
simulating assembly 20 may be positioned, for example, beside a
swimming pool, i.e., whether the pool is located indoors or
outdoors.
[0062] If it is intended to cool objects, then the container 50 is
placed in the chamber 26, and objects 23 to be cooled are
positioned therein, with cooling elements 58. The cover portion 40
is normally closed, to minimize heat transfer into the cavity
52.
[0063] If it is intended to heat objects, then the container 50 is
removed from the chamber 26 (FIG. 5), and the objects 21 to be
heated are placed in the chamber 26. The heat source 48 is
activated, to heat the objects 21 positioned in the chamber 26.
Once again, the cover portion 40 is normally closed, in this
situation, to minimize heat transfer from the chamber 26.
[0064] As can be seen in FIGS. 1-5, the cover portion 40 may be
provided in the form of a lid which is removable. In this
embodiment, the container 50 is moved substantially vertically in
and out of the chamber 26. However, other arrangements may be
used.
[0065] Alternative embodiments of the flame simulating assembly of
the invention are disclosed in FIGS. 8-11. Elements are numbered in
FIGS. 8-11 so as to correspond to like elements shown in FIGS.
1-7.
[0066] An alternative embodiment of a flame simulating assembly 120
of the invention is disclosed in FIGS. 8 and 9. As shown in FIG. 8,
the flame simulating assembly 120 preferably includes a housing 122
with a body portion 124 having a chamber 126 therein accessible via
an aperture 128, the aperture 128 being positioned at a rear side
129 of the housing 122. The housing 122 includes a cover portion
140 which is pivotable about a hinge 141 between a closed position,
in which the cover portion 140 closes the aperture 128, and an open
position, in which the aperture 128 is open. It will be understood
that the cover portion 140 is not necessarily attached to the body
portion 124, i.e., whether by the hinge 141, or by other means. For
example, the cover portion 140 may be removable from the body
portion 124, when the cover portion 140 is in the open
position.
[0067] In addition, the flame simulating assembly 120 preferably
includes a temperature-affecting element 137 which includes a heat
source 148, as shown in FIG. 8. The heat source 148 is for heating
the chamber 126.
[0068] The flame simulating assembly 120 preferably also includes a
container 150 which is receivable in the chamber 126 (FIG. 9). The
container 150 at least partially defines a cavity 152 therein. It
is preferred that the container 150 is moved into the chamber 126
when the container 150 is pushed by the user (not shown) in the
direction indicated by arrow "D" in FIG. 9. Preferably, a contact
168 is positioned in the chamber 126 so that it is contacted by a
first magnet 166 mounted on the container 150 (FIG. 9). As the
container 150 is fully inserted into the chamber 126, the first
magnet 166 contacts the second magnet 168, thereby breaking (or
opening) the electric circuit of the heat source 148. Preferably,
the temperature-affecting element 137 includes cooling elements 158
to cool the cavity 152. However, various means for heating the
chamber 126 and cooling the cavity 152 are known to those skilled
in the art.
[0069] It will be understood that the cover portion 140 is shown in
the open position in FIGS. 8 and 9, and the cover portion 140 is
shown in the closed position in ghost outline in each of FIGS. 8
and 9, to simplify illustration thereof.
[0070] After the container 150 is positioned in the chamber 126,
the cover portion 140 is pivoted upwardly to close the aperture
128. The cover portion 140 preferably is latched to, or otherwise
suitably releasably attached to, the body portion 140 at a top end
125 thereof. Similarly, when the container 150 is not received in
the chamber 126, the cover portion 140 preferably is latched to the
body portion at the top end 125, to close the aperture so that
objects (not shown) in the chamber 126 may be heated, if
desired.
[0071] Another alternative embodiment of the flame simulating
assembly 220 of the invention is disclosed in FIGS. 10 and 11. As
shown in FIG. 10, the flame simulating assembly 220 preferably
includes a housing 222 with a body portion 224 having a chamber 226
therein accessible via an aperture 228 positioned at a front side
231 of the housing 222. The housing 222 includes a cover portion
240 which is pivotable between a closed position, in which the
cover portion 240 closes the aperture 228, and an open position, in
which the aperture 228 is open. The flame simulating assembly 220
preferably also includes a temperature-affecting element 237 which
includes a heat source 248 for heating the chamber 226, as shown in
FIG. 10.
[0072] Although the cover portion 240 is shown as being attached to
the body portion 224 by a hinge 241, it will be understood that the
cover portion 240 is not necessarily attached to the body portion
224, when the cover portion 240 is in the open position.
[0073] In addition, the flame simulating assembly 220 preferably
includes a container 250 which is receivable in the chamber 226.
The container 250 at least partly defines a cavity 252 therein. It
is preferred that the container 250 is moved into the chamber 226
when the container 250 is pushed in the direction indicated by
arrow "E" in FIG. 11. Preferably, a contact 268 is positioned in
the chamber 226 so that it is contacted by a first magnet 266
mounted on the container 250 (FIG. 11). As the container 250 is
fully inserted into the chamber 226, the first magnet 266 contacts
the second magnet 268, thereby breaking (or opening) the electric
circuit of the heat source 248. Preferably, the
temperature-affecting element 237 includes cooling elements (not
shown) to cool the cavity 252. However, various means for heating
the chamber 126 and cooling the cavity 152 are known to those
skilled in the art.
[0074] It will be understood that the cover portion 240 is shown in
the open position in FIGS. 10 and 11, and the cover portion 240 is
shown in the closed position in ghost outline in each of FIGS. 10
and 11, to simplify illustration thereof.
[0075] After the container 250 is positioned in the chamber 226,
the cover portion 240 is pivoted upwardly to close the aperture
228. The cover portion 240 preferably is latched to, or otherwise
suitably releasably attached to, the body portion 240 at a top end
227 thereof. Similarly, when the container 250 is not received in
the chamber 226, the cover portion 240 preferably is latched to the
body portion at the top end 227, to close the aperture so that
objects (not shown) in the chamber 226 may be heated, if
desired.
[0076] Any element in a claim that does not explicitly state "means
for" performing a specified function, or "step for" performing a
specific function, is not to be interpreted as a "means" or "step"
clause as specified in 35 U.S.C. .sctn.112, paragraph 6.
[0077] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the
invention can take many forms, and that such forms are within the
scope of the invention as claimed. For instance, in the drawings
herein, the aperture providing access to the chamber has been shown
as being located at the top, the front, and the back of the
housing. Although not disclosed in the enclosed drawings, it would
be evident to those skilled in the art that the aperture could be
located on either side (or both sides) of the housing. Therefore,
the spirit and scope of the appended claims should not be limited
to the descriptions of the preferred versions contained herein.
* * * * *