KR101189618B1 - Device providing coordinated emission of light and volatile active - Google Patents

Abstract

Apparatus 100 for emitting light and active components, including light source 106, emitter 108, power source 118, control circuits 110 and 112, and support structures 102, 104 and 134, is disclosed. The light source 106 emits blinking light that mimics the flame of the candle. The emitter 108 emits volatile active ingredients. The power source 118 supplies power to the light source 106 and the emitter 108. The control circuits 110, 112 control at least one of (i) causing the light source 106 to blink and (ii) causing the emitter 108 to emit volatile active ingredients. The support structures 102, 104, 134 support the light source 106, emitter 108, power source 118, and control circuits 110, 112.

Candle, flame, light source, light emitting diode, emitter, active ingredient, fragrance, power supply, control circuit

Description

Device providing coordinated emission of light and volatile active

Related Prior Application

This application claims the priority of US Provisional Application No. 60 / 541,067, filed February 3, 2004.

The present invention is directed to providing an integrated presentation to the surrounding environment. In particular, the present invention relates to controlled and controlled spinning of light and volatile active ingredients, such as fragrances, into a given area in a single device.

Due to the wide variety of shapes and specifications as well as the infinite number of fragrances that are visible, they are not often used as versatile when setting the atmosphere in an area, such as scented candles. However, the scented candle is not without its drawbacks. For example, falling wax can damage furniture and body skin, and in severe cases an open flame can cause dry fires.

In order to solve the common problems associated with candles, electronic lighting devices having a flickering appearance of candles as disclosed in US Pat. Nos. 5,013,972 and 6,066,924 have been known in the art. In US Pat. No. 5,013,972, two adjacent lamps are turned on and turned off at a frequency at which blinking is perceived. Similarly, U. S. Patent No. 6,066, 924 discloses a circuit used to flicker control two adjacent light bulbs. In addition, the circuits and bulbs of US Pat. No. 6,066,924 are housed in a container of a size and shape similar to a common planar candle. While these patents may suggest devices that mimic the visual appearance of candles, they do not provide a scented candle experience. In other words, it failed to emit fragrance with light.

Fragrance dispensers are also commonly known. For example, it is known to emit fragrance from an aerosol container upon triggering by a user. In addition, other methods utilize the vaporization properties of liquids or other vaporizable materials to allow vapor with desired properties to be distributed to the ambient air. For example, US Pat. No. 4,413,779 discloses a glass container containing a fluid with two rigid porous nylon wicks extending therefrom. The wick is in contact with a rigid plastic porous element. In use, the wick transfers fluid from the glass vessel to ambient air. As another example of a fragrance, the technique of a nebulizer assembly is also known for releasing fragrance from the wick which draws the fragrance liquid out of the reservoir. Generally assigned US Patent No. 6,296,196 and generally assigned and pending Application No. 10 / 412,911, filed April 14, 2003, disclose such assemblies, the techniques are described in detail below. US Patent No. 6,296,196 and US Patent Application No. 10 / 412,911 are described herein by reference. Although their representative devices provide fragrance emission, they do not provide a visual appearance of candles.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a device which emits both light and aroma (or other active ingredient), similar to a scented candle. More specifically, the present invention relates to an improved candle employing a unique design that combines the flameless flickering effect of the flameless and effective, reliable distribution of volatile active ingredients.

In particular, the mechanism for emitting light and active components according to one aspect of the invention comprises a light source, emitter, power source, control circuit and support structure. The light source emits blinking light, which mimics the flame of a candle. The emitter releases volatile active ingredients. The power source supplies power to the light source and the emitter. The control circuit controls at least one of causing the light source to blink and the emitter to emit the volatile active ingredient. The support structure supports the light source, emitter, power source, and control circuit.

According to another aspect of the invention, the mechanism for emitting light and the active ingredient comprises a light source, an active ingredient emitter, a control circuit, a power source, a chassis and a holder. The light source emits blinking light, which mimics the flame of a candle. The active ingredient emitter releases volatile active ingredients. The control circuit controls at least one of the light source and the emitter. The power source supplies power to the light source to emit blinking light, and supplies power to the active material emitter to emit the volatile active ingredient. Any one or more of the light source, active component emitter, control circuit and power sources are located on the chassis. The chassis is removably positioned on the holder, the holder and chassis forming a housing within which the light source, active component emitter, control circuitry and power sources are located. At least one of the chassis and the holder includes a diffuser, wherein the diffuser scatters light emitted by the light source.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, a device for emitting light and an active ingredient comprises at least one light emitting diode (LED), an active ingredient emitter, a power source, and at least one single microcontroller and a single It includes a circuit board. The at least one light emitting diode emits blinking light, which mimics the flame of a candle. The active ingredient emitter releases volatile active ingredients. The power source supplies power to the at least one light source to emit light, and supplies power to the active material emitter to emit the volatile active ingredient. The at least one single microcontroller and the single circuit board allow the light source to emit flashing light and control both the activator emitter to emit volatile active ingredients.

Reference will now be made to the following detailed description and drawings in order that the above aspects, features, and advantages of the present invention may be better understood, and preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail.

1 is a perspective view of a mechanism for emitting light and fragrance according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

2 is an exploded perspective view of the instrument of FIG. 1;

3 is a side view of the instrument of FIG. 1 with the base removed;

4 is a perspective view of the components of the appliance of FIG. 1.

5 is a perspective view of the instrument of FIG. 1 placed in a holder.

6 is a perspective view of a mechanism for emitting light and fragrance according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view showing the relationship between the instrument and the base of FIG. 6.

8A, 8B and 8C are diagrams of a mechanism for emitting light and fragrance in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention.

9 is a perspective view of a mechanism for emitting light and fragrance in accordance with another aspect of the present invention.

10 is a perspective view of a mechanism for emitting light and fragrance in accordance with another aspect of the present invention.

11 is a view showing still other embodiments of the device for emitting light and fragrance according to the present invention.

12A-12D illustrate arrangements of holders that may be used in accordance with various aspects of the present invention.

Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing a preferred fragrance dispenser of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing the preferred fragrance dispenser shown in FIG. 13.

Throughout the figures, similar or corresponding symbols have been used to denote the same or corresponding parts.

The present invention provides a device that emits both light and fragrance. Preferably, the present invention provides a single device that includes an improved flame distribution system without open flames and that mimics the visual and olfactory aesthetics of the scented candle.

Although preferred embodiments of the present invention include the release of fragrances and the following detailed description describes the release of fragrances, it is also envisaged that the dispensers of the present invention may otherwise dispense alternative volatile active ingredients. . Such alternative volatile active ingredients may include, for example, disinfectants, sanitizers, insecticides and insect repellants. As will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art, other volatile active ingredients may also be dispensed into the surrounding environment via the dispenser in the same manner as the fragrance.

As shown collectively in the figures, preferred embodiments of the present invention include a mechanism for emitting light and fragrance. The apparatus preferably includes an electrically driven power source, aroma dispenser, a power source, a control circuit and support structures. All of these components work together to provide the fragrance direction and the appearance of a blinking flame, providing a blinking effect by an electrically driven light source.

Light source

The light source of the present invention is an electrically driven light emitting device. In a preferred arrangement, the light source comprises one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs). In particular, a single light emitting diode 106 or 206 is used in FIGS. 1-7, whereas in the case of FIGS. 8A-8C the light source comprises light emitting diodes 306a 306b. Other conventional light emitting devices (including incandescent bulbs, halogen bulbs, fluorescent lamps, etc.) may also be used in place of light sources.

As generally understood, light emitting diodes provide several advantages that are not seen in other conventional light emitting devices. In particular, as is well known in the art, by controlling the duty cycle of one light emitting diode, the light is emitted so that it can be perceived to be intermittently emitted or perceived to be emitted continuously. Can be. Moreover, increasing the operating period of the light emitting diodes increases the intensity and / or perceived color of the emitted light.

In embodiments where a single light emitting diode is used, the light emitting diode is adjusted to have varying intensity, thereby providing a blinking effect. When two light emitting diodes are used as in FIGS. 8A to 8C, the two light emitting diodes 306a and 306b are preferably one after the other, i.e. the light emitting diode 306a is separated from light. It is disposed on the side of the light emitting diode 306b at a position opposite the base of the mechanism 300 which emits the scent. Preferably, the upper light emitting diode 306a is adjusted to emit light at a perceptible level of intermittence, while the lower light emitting diode 306b is adjusted to perceive that light is emitted continuously. In this way, the light emitting diodes 306a and 306b operate to form a blinking effect. For example, when a normal candle shines, the base of the flame is static while some of the flame appears to flicker lightly. The arrangement of the light emitting diodes 306a 306b mimics this visual characteristic. Preference is given to light emitting diodes having a yellow or amber color. In particular, it is preferable that the light emitting diodes used have an emission wavelength in the range of approximately 580 to 600 nm, and more preferably have an emission wavelength in the range of approximately 585 to 595 nm.

Of course, the inventors can also expect modifications to light sources of other preferred embodiments. For example, perhaps two or more light emitting diodes may be used to make it appear to be a larger flame. In addition, light emitting diodes of different colors are known and can also be used, for example, to make the effect more similar to flame by the use of red, orange and / or yellow colors. It is also possible to change the color using, for example, red cyan light emitting diodes (ie an arrangement of red, green and blue light emitting diodes). By varying the arrangement as well as changing the light emitting diodes used so, various flavors can be obtained including changes to colored shapes, colored flames and colored flickers. In addition, by adjusting the operation period of the light emitting diodes, the brightness of the light can also be reduced or enhanced depending on the design.

Furthermore, when multiple light emitting diodes are used, it is not required that one light emitting diode provides a perceptually constant light emission while the other light emitting diode 306a provides a blinking effect. One or both may be perceptibly constant and one or both may emit blinking light. (If pulse width modulation is used to control one or more light emitting diodes, it is also possible in the art to allow perceptible constant or flickering light to flicker at frequencies that are unacceptable to the observer. As can be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, flickering and constant light should be understood to refer to perceptible effects herein.)

Scent dispenser

A fragrance dispenser is integrally provided in the present invention. The fragrance dispenser preferably has a replaceable container or reservoir containing a fragrance in any of a number of conventional forms, including gels and liquids therein. The fragrance may be evaporated and released from the apparatus by the application of heat. In this case, the dispenser is an adjustable heating mechanism that can change the rate at which steam is emitted from the fragrance or a mechanical controller (shield or fan) to control the air flow around the fragrance to be evaporated. ) May be included.

While fragrance dispensers are generally well known, preferred fragrance dispensers can be wick-based emanation systems. More preferably, the fragrance dispenser is an atomizer for emitting a fragrance from the wick. This arrangement is shown in FIGS. 13 and 14.

In particular, the preferred evaporative fragrance dispenser 4 comprises an atomizer assembly comprising an orifice plate 462 and a replaceable reservoir 326. The reservoir 326 is replaceable and includes a liquid. The wick 464 is placed in the reservoir 326. The wick 464 operates by capillary action to transfer liquid from within the reservoir 326. The reservoir 326 is preferably removed by the user and may be replaced by another reservoir 326 (eg, when the liquid is exhausted or other directional liquid is required). When replaced in this manner, the wick 464 transfers liquid from the reservoir 326.

In addition to including the orifice plate 462, the atomizer assembly includes at least one elastic, elongate shaped to resiliently support the bottom of the orifice plate 462 and a spring housing 468. Further comprises a linear support 466. The spring 470 accommodated in the spring housing 468 elastically presses on the upper surface of the orifice plate 462. Instead of directly pressing on the orifice plate 462, the spring 470 may alternatively or additionally comprise an actuator element 472 (eg a piezo-electric ceramic material). And a member, such as connected to the orifice plate 462, may be pressed. At the same time, the linear support 466 and the spring 470 allow the orifice plate 462 to move upward or downward relative to the elastic bias of the linear support 466. Hold it.

The actuator member 472 is preferably molded in an annular shape, and the orifice plate 462 is preferably circular. The orifice plate 462 extends across the actuator member 472 and is soldered or otherwise secured to the actuator member 472. Assembly of vibrator-type atomizer assemblies is known and described, for example, in US Pat. No. 6,296,196. Thus, although not described in detail with respect to the atomizer assembly, when applying alternating voltages on the opposing upper and lower sides of the actuator member 472, these voltages may create an electric field across the actuator member 472. And expand and contract in the radial direction. This expansion and contraction is transmitted to the orifice plate 462, which causes the central region to bend to vibrate upward and downward. The central area of the orifice plate 462 is slightly rounded upwards to provide stiffness and also increase atomization. The central region is also formed of a number of finely inclined orifices, which extend across the orifice plate 462 from the bottom or bottom surface of the orifice plate 462 to its top surface.

In operation, power in the form of a voltage changing at high frequencies is applied to the opposing upper and lower sides of the actuator member 472, as described above. Suitable circuits for generating such voltages are disclosed and described in the aforementioned US Pat. No. 6,296,196. As disclosed in the patent, the instrument can be operated for successive on and off times. The relative durations of these on / off times are fixed on the outside of the housing and can be adjusted by an external switch actuator (not shown) connected to the switch member on the microcontroller. In another embodiment, the on / off time may be adjusted by a preset program or by a user interface operating through a processor such as a user control.

When the atomizer assembly is supported by the linear support 466, the orifice plate 462 is positioned to contact the upper end of the wick 464. Thereby, the atomizer assembly is supported on the liquid reservoir 326 in such a way that the upper end of the wick 464 contacts the lower side of the orifice plate 462. Accordingly, the wick 464 delivers liquid from the liquid reservoir 326 to the top of the wick 464 by capillary action, and then continues to form the orifice plate 462 by surface tension. Attached to the bottom surface, the vacuum here causes the liquid to pass through the orifices and be released from its opposite side (ie, the upper surface) in the form of small drops.

In a preferred arrangement, a horizontal platform serves as a common support for both the reservoir 326 and the atomizer assembly. In this way, the low organ 326 and in particular the upper end of the wick 464 located therein are aligned with the orifice plate 462. Moreover, because the atomizer assembly and the orifice plate 462 are elastically supported, it is independent of the dimensional change that may occur due to manufacturing tolerances when one reservoir 326 is replaced with another. The upper end of the wick 464 is always pressed against the bottom surface of the orifice plate 462 and / or the actuator member 472. This means that if the wick 464 included in the replacement reservoir 326 is higher or lower than the wick 464 of the original liquid reservoir 326, the action of the spring 470 is such that the replacement reservoir Depending on the position of the wick 464 in 326, the orifice plate 462 may be allowed to move upwards or downwards, such that the wick 464 moves the orifice plate 462 and / or the actuator. It is pressed against the bottom surface of the member 472. It will be understood, of course, that the wick 464 is formed of a substantially rigid, dimensionally stable material, and thus will not be excessively deformed when pressed against the bottom of the elastically supported orifice plate 462. . The characteristics of the horizontal platform on which the atomizer is placed will be described below.

As shown, the wick 464 passes from the liquid reservoir 326 through a plug 474 on top of the reservoir 326 and the orifice plate 462 and / or the actuator member ( 472). (The plug 474 holds the wick 464 in the liquid reservoir 326.) The wick 464 has a capillary passage extending in the longitudinal direction and from within the reservoir 326. The liquid is drawn up to the top of the wick 464. Instead of the capillary wick 464, a capillary member (not shown) may be substituted. Such members generally comprise a plurality of capillary passages on their outer surface. These passages act by capillary action to transfer fragrance from the liquid reservoir 326 to the orifice plate 462 and / or the actuator member 472.

A more detailed description of the above mentioned atomizer device can be found in US patent application Ser. No. 10 / 412,911 filed April 14,2003. In addition, a more detailed description of the support structure for the atomizer device can be found in US patent application Ser. No. 10 / 304,215, filed Nov. 26, 2002. The detailed description of this US patent application Ser. No. 10 / 304,215 is incorporated herein by reference.

Of course, it may be replaced by other desired perfume emitting devices in consideration of the taste of the design, the manufacturing cost and the like. In particular, it is contemplated that evaporators, heated evaporators and fan evaporators, among other things, may be used in place of the piezo-electrically operated atomizer mechanism described above. Moreover, even within each type of dispenser, many variations are possible, as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

power

The power supply powers to illuminate the light source and, if necessary, operates the fragrance dispenser (e.g., in the above mentioned atomizer-type fragrance dispenser, the voltage at the top and bottom surfaces of the actuator plate). Supply). The power supply may also be used to drive separate components (although not shown, these separate components may include, for example, fans). In a preferred embodiment, the power source comprises one or more batteries. If one battery is used, voltage step-up may be used to supply sufficient power. The batteries may be replaceable or rechargeable. If rechargeable batteries are used, they may be detached for charging, or an adapter may be provided on the instrument so that the batteries can be charged without being disconnected from the instrument. For example, a receptor (not shown) may be provided integrally within the instrument to accommodate a plug for supplying power, for example, from an external electrical outlet. However, it is not necessary for the power source to include a battery. For example, the power for the instrument can be supplied directly from external electrical wiring. As will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, the use of alternative power sources may require the apparatus to include an AC to DC converter.

Control circuit

As used above, the term "control circuit" has been used as a representative term that includes all the controls used to implement the present invention. For example, preferred embodiments have been described below with reference to microcontrollers and / or circuit boards. Examples of other specified control circuits that may be used to embody the present invention may be application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), microcontrollers and one or more resistors and / or arrays of capacitors. However, the present invention may or may not comprise software. The control circuit is not limited to these examples. Other control circuits may also be used.

The control circuit generally controls the operation of the instrument and is driven by the batteries. In particular, the control circuit is designed to provide signals for adjusting the operation of the light source. When one or more light emitting diodes are provided as the light source, the microcontroller may change the operating period of the light emitting diodes to adjust the perceived intensity of the emitted light, thereby forming a blinking effect such as seconds. Can be. Alternatively, instead of modifying the operating cycle, the microcontroller can otherwise adjust the light emission characteristics of the light emitting diodes. For example, methods utilizing analog sine waves or digital potentiometers generally known to those skilled in the art can be used. In another embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 8A-8C, when at least two light emitting diodes are used and one light emitting diode 306b receives a constant current and emits light constantly, the light emitting diode 306b ) May be separately controlled from the control circuit so that the apparatus is powered from the power source when the apparatus is turned on or not powered when the apparatus is turned off. In other words, when one light emitting diode 306b emits light constantly, it is not necessary to have means (such as a microcontroller) for separately adjusting its operation period. In this case, the microcontroller can only adjust its operation so that the light emitting diode blinks. In another embodiment, the frequency of the pulse width may be adjusted with pulse width modulation by the microcontroller such that the frequency of the viewer is not perceptible. In this way, the intensity of the light emitting diodes with a constant emission can be slightly changed to give the whole flickering appearance.

In addition, when the preferred fragrance dispenser as mentioned above is used, the microcontroller is a circuit for converting power from the batteries into a voltage that changes to the high frequency required for expansion and contraction of the actuator member 472. It may be further included, thereby releasing the fragrance from the fragrance dispenser (4). In addition, the microcontroller may control them when fans and / or heating elements are used. Moreover, the microcontroller may include controls to automatically turn on or off either or both of the light source and the fragrance dispenser.

Support structure

The invention also includes a support structure provided to support the light source, the fragrance emitter, the power source and the microcontroller or some combination thereof. The term "support structure" is intended to include chassis, housing, holder, bases as those terms are used in the description of the preferred embodiment as well as similar structures used to support or comprise the above configurations of the present invention. It became.

desirable Embodiments

In the following description of the components of the invention in general, the preferred embodiments of the device for emitting light and active materials according to the invention are described. These preferred embodiments include various novel arrangements of the various components mentioned above with additional features.

1 to 5 a first embodiment is depicted and will be described in detail with reference to these figures. As best seen in FIGS. 2 and 3, a chassis 102 is provided that includes a chassis cover 102a, a chassis upper end 102b, and a chassis lower end 102c. Two batteries 118, a wicked atomizer assembly 108, a single light emitting diode 106 and two printed circuit boards 114, 116 are located on the chassis 102. Each of the two microcontrollers 110, 112 is placed on the circuit boards 114, 116. (Although in this embodiment two microcontrollers 110, 112) (one for each of the light emitting diodes 106 and the atomizer assemblies 108) and two circuit boards 114, 116 (the Although one light emitting diode 106 and one for each of the atomizer assemblies 108) are used, one microcontroller and / or one circuit board may be used for the light emitting diode 106 and the atomizer 108. As shown, the chassis cover 102a and the chassis upper end 102b may be joined to form a cavity therebetween, and the chassis lower end 102c may Suspended downward from the bottom of the chassis upper portion (102b). In this embodiment, the atomizer assembly 108, the light emitting diode 106, the microcontrollers 110, 112 and the printed circuit boards 114, 116 have the chassis cover 102a and the chassis top end 102b. Is located in the cavity formed between). Electrical contacts 122 that the batteries 118 contact to transfer power to the instrument 100 are coupled to the chassis of the chassis 102 with the batteries 118 placed in contact with the electrical contacts 122. It is located on the lower end 102c.

In this embodiment, the batteries 118 are detachably secured to the chassis lower end 102c of the chassis 102. A battery retainer 120 may be provided to help maintain the battery attached to the chassis 102. If the batteries 118 are to be separated from the chassis 102, the retainer 120 can be removed first. Also in this embodiment, the reservoir 126 containing the liquid to be atomized is adjacent to the atomizer assembly 108 such that it is easily removed from the atomizer assembly 108 and also easily reattached to the chassis 102. An entryway is formed in the bottom of the chassis upper end 102b. Thus, this arrangement allows the user to access the batteries 118 and the reservoir 126 (e.g., to allow replacement of the batteries 118 or the reservoir 126), and the rest. Components may be retained in a cavity formed between the chassis cover 102a and the chassis top end 102b to reduce the expected damage of these components.

1 and 3, in the first embodiment, the protrusion or tip 124 extends axially upward from the top end of the chassis cover 102a. Advantageously, the light emitting diodes 106 may be located within the tips 124 such that light emitted from the light emitting diodes 106 is dispersed by and through the tips 124. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, the tip 124 is one of the discrete components of the instrument 100, placed in a hole formed through the top of the chassis 102. The tip 124 may also be integrally formed with the chassis 102. However, by making the tip 124 into pieces, the tip 124 may be replaced with, for example, other manufactured or colored tips. In addition, the separate tip 124 may be made of a material different from that used to manufacture the chassis. For example, the tip 124 may be formed of a material through which light passes, for example, plastic, glass, wax, or the like. In addition, the tip 124 may be made of a material that shines in the dark or a material capable of sustaining light emission for a predetermined time after the light emitting diode 106 is turned off.

A hole other than that formed for insertion of the tip 124 may also be formed in the chassis cover 102a. For example, a discharge hole 136 is formed through the upper surface of the chassis 102 on top of the atomizer assembly 108 so that the active ingredient released by the atomizer passes through the discharge hole 136. Can be released into the surrounding atmosphere. Moreover, holes may be formed in the chassis 102 to allow switches to be positioned therethrough. For example, an emission control switch cover 128 (which is associated with a push type switch (not shown)) connected to the microcontroller 112 that controls the time of the operating cycle applied to the atomizer assembly 108 is provided. A user may be provided to enable the user to control the amount of active substance released by hand. In this way, the user can optimize the emission amount in consideration of the external environment such as the size of the room. Furthermore, an on / off switch or button 130 may be provided in a hole formed through the chassis 102 to turn on or off either or both of the light emitting diode 106 and the atomizer 108. . For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the on / off toggle switch 130, which is electrically connected to the light emitting diode 106, is located in a hole formed through the upper surface of the chassis 102, whereby It is possible for a user to turn on or off the light emitting diode 106. In other embodiments, the chassis 102 may have exposed areas such that no holes need to be formed.

Together with the attached components, the chassis 102 may be detachably coupled to the base or cup 134. Coupling of the chassis 102 with the base 134 forms an integral housing in which the atomizer assembly 108, the reservoir 126, the batteries 118, and the control circuits are placed. In a preferred embodiment, the base 134 is cylindrical in shape including sidewalls and a bottom surface. The chassis top end 102a of the chassis 102 is also generally cylindrical in shape with its outer diameter substantially the same as the base 134. By lowering the chassis 102 into the base 134, the chassis lower end 102c of the chassis 102 is placed in the bay 134 and the chassis upper end 102b of the chassis 102. ) Is located close to the open top of the base 134. The integral housing thus formed has a cylindrical appearance and includes a tip protruding axially upward from near the central portion of the upper end of the cylindrical shape.

Although many methods of detachably attaching the chassis to the base are to be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, the preferred bonding method is described below. A substantially C-shaped receiver is formed on the lower end of the chassis 102 and extends upwardly axially from the bottom surface of the base 134. When the chassis 102 is lowered into the base 134, the protruding portion formed in the base 134 therein is the letter C shaped receiver of the lower end portion 102c of the chassis 102. To accept. In this way, proper arrangement of the chassis 102 into the base 134 is achieved. Moreover, as can be appreciated, each of the chassis 102 and the base 134 has a cylindrical footprint, because the protrusions and the C-shaped receptors are located on opposite axes. Regardless of the direction of rotation of the chassis 102 relative to the base 134, the chassis 102 is easily attached to the base 134.

Preferably, the dimensions of the combination of chassis 102 and base 134 have a diameter of approximately 1-6 inches (25.4-152.4 mm) and a height of approximately 1-6 inches (25.4-152.4 mm). Of course, depending on the desired appearance, the specification can be larger or smaller. In addition, as described above, since at least a portion of the blinking light emitting diode 106 is placed within the tip 124 for dispersing the emitted light, the tip 124 is adapted to the appearance of the flame of a conventional candle. Can have All or part of the remainder of the instrument 100 may also be light transmissive. Light transmissive materials that can be used can include glass, plastic, wax, and the like. Furthermore, by the movement of the light emitting diode within the tip, an appearance closer to a normal candle can be obtained.

Thus, according to a first embodiment of the present invention, the combination of chassis 102 and base 134 as a result provides a look like a conventional candle, providing the user with an existing storehouse in place of conventional candles. It can be used with holders. Alternatively, the present invention may be embodied in a combination of chassis 102, base 134 and holder 104 (as shown in FIG. 5). Moreover, it will be appreciated that the chassis 102 can be designed to stand up alone, ie, without the base 134. For example, the chassis lower end 102c of the chassis 102 may be designed to allow the entire chassis 102 to stand up by itself.

A second embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. This embodiment includes many of the components as described for the first embodiment above, and the description thereof is not repeated.

According to this second embodiment, a chassis 202 (different from the chassis 102 of the first embodiment) is provided. An atomizer assembly 208, a light emitting diode 206, two circuit boards, a microcontroller and a battery 218 are located on the chassis 202. As shown, the chassis 202 includes a tip 202a, an upper end 202b positioned below the tip 202a, and a lower end 202c positioned below the upper end 202b. The atomizer assembly 208 is located on the upper end 202b of the chassis 202 and the reservoir 226 containing the liquid to be atomized by the atomizer assembly 208 is the atomizer assembly. Detachable pairing with 208. The lower end 202c of the chassis 202 is positioned sufficiently low in the upper end 202b of the chassis 202 to facilitate removal and replacement of the reservoir 226. The lower end preferably comprises an internal cavity in which a control, i.e., a circuit board and a microcontroller, is placed.

The light emitting diodes 206 are located proximately on the top surface of the bottom portion 202c of the chassis 202. In particular, the light emitting diodes 206 of this embodiment are located on a circuit board located in an internal cavity of the lower end 202c of the chassis 202. A hole is formed through an upper end of the lower end 202c of the chassis 202, and at least a portion of the light emitting diode protrudes through the hole. The battery 218 is located below the lower end of the chassis 202. As will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, electrical leads or the like connect between the battery 218, the control unit, the light emitting diode 206 and the atomizer assembly 208. It may be necessary.

As shown in FIG. 7, the chassis 202 may be removably positioned within the base 234. The base 234 is generally cylindrical with a bottom surface (not shown) and an open tip. The chassis 202 is received in the base 234 through the open tip. When the chassis 202 is placed in the base 234, the chassis 202 and the base 234 form an integrated housing, in which the light emitting diode 208 and the active material emitter 206 are located. ), The control unit and the battery 218 are located. Preferably, the chassis 202 and the base 234 are disposed with the tip surface of the chassis 202 positioned within the open tip of the base 234, and the chassis 202 and the base 234 The housing, which is formed by the arrangement of c), resembles a conventional pillar candle.

Similar to the first embodiment, the housing of the second embodiment also includes a discharge port, preferably aligned with the atomizer assembly 208. In particular, in this embodiment the outlet 236 is formed through the tip 202a of the chassis 202 because the atomizer is arranged below the tip 202a of the chassis 202. . In this way, the liquid atomized in the housing can be discharged into the surrounding environment.

Again, similar to the first embodiment, means are also provided for adjusting the amount of active material emitted by the emitter 208 and for turning the light emitting diode 206 on or off. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, a push switch 228 is connected on the lower end 202c of the chassis 202 that connects to the microcontroller that controls the atomizer assembly 208. The push switch 228 is manually adjusted between the various positions to allow the atomizer assembly 208 to adjust the frequency at which the active material stored in the reservoir 226 is released. In addition, a push button 230 is positioned on the tip 202a of the chassis 202 to turn the light emitting diode 206 on or off.

As can be seen in the figures, the control unit connected to the atomizer assembly 208 and the light emitting diodes 206, that is, the circuit boards and microcontrollers, are connected to the lower end 202c of the chassis 202. ) And the lower end 202c of the chassis 202 because the atomizer assembly 208 and the push buttons 230 are located proximate the tip 202a of the chassis 202. Wires are provided to transmit a control signal from the to the atomizer 280, and the operation of the push button 230 located on the tip 202a of the chassis 202 to the light emitting diode 206. Post 252 is provided for delivery to a switch on the circuit board that is turned on or off. In a similar sense, since it is desirable to have a push switch for controlling the release of liquid contained in the reservoir 226 placed on the tip of the housing (e.g. to facilitate user access), It may be necessary to provide mechanical, electrical and / or electro-mechanical means for connecting the push switch and the appropriate controls.

According to this second embodiment, an apparatus 200 for emitting light and an active ingredient is provided. Preferably, as mentioned above, the housing of the instrument 200 (ie, the combination of chassis 202 and base 234) is arranged and sized to resemble a conventional pillar candle. As can be appreciated, since the light emitting diode 206 emitting the blinking light is located in the housing, most of the light can be transmitted through the sidewall of the base 234. Thus, at least a portion of the base 234 should be light transmissive. In addition, at least a portion of the chassis 202 may be light transmissive. For this purpose, all or part of the chassis 202 and / or the base 234 may be formed of any one or more of glass, plastic, waxes.

Variations of this second embodiment can also be considered. For example, this is not required as long as the holder 234 is generally cylindrical. Rectangular, square and myriad shapes and sizes may be considered. In addition, this is not required as long as the chassis 202 is inserted through the tip of the base 234. For example, the base may slide on the chassis 202 or the base 234 so that the base is open at the bottom, and also replace the reservoir 226, the battery 218. The chassis 202 may be integrally formed by being integrally formed to have an access plate for the same.

A third embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to FIGS. 8A-8C, 9 and 10. In this embodiment, the device 300 that emits the preferred light and active material of the present invention comprises a chassis 302 that includes a chassis cover 302a and a chassis base 302b that together form a cavity. Each of the two light emitting diodes 306a and 306b surrounds a printed circuit board having a fragrance emitter 308, two batteries 318 and a microcontroller 310. The light emitting diodes 306a and 306b are directly or indirectly connected to both the batteries 318 and the microcontroller 310. Although the arrangement of the fragrance emitter 308, battery 318 and microcontroller 310 in the chassis 302 is not absolute, each of these components is preferably the tip of the chassis cover 302a. It is located below the surface. Further, the light emitting diodes 306a, 306b are preferably substantially central to the tip surface of the instrument and on the fragrance emitter 308, the battery 318 and the microcontrollers 310, ie the chassis. It is located on the side of the fragrance emitter 308, the battery 318 and the microcontroller 310 opposite the base 302b. At least some of the light emitting diodes 306a and 306b are preferably located on the tip surface of the chassis cover 302a. By positioning the light emitting diodes 306a and 306b over other components in this way, the emission of light is not hindered by these components, thus the shadow is substantially prevented, and a more practical shape Of flame is formed.

Although the arrangement of the various components within the chassis 302 is not absolute, the chassis 302 preferably has a horizontal platform 342 for arranging the fragrance emitter 308 in the chassis 302. (Preferably located on the chassis base 302b). The platform 342 preferably has a platform hole 344 through which one or more cut outs are formed around the platform hole 344. Preferably, the exchangeable reservoir 326 has one or more nubs 348 formed on the reservoir 326 (one for each of the cutouts 344 formed in the platform 342). Corresponding to each). To insert the reservoir 326, the nubs 348 pass through the cutouts 346 to pass a portion of the reservoir 326 through the platform hole 344 of the platform 342. Let's do it. Once the nubs 348 pass through the cutouts 346, the reservoir 326 is rotated so that the nubs 348 are raised on the top surface of the platform 342. Also, as mentioned above, a linear support 466 (not shown in FIGS. 8A-8C) is attached to the tip of the platform 342 to support the atomizer assembly 308.

Moreover, the inner surfaces of the chassis 302 can include various protrusions. These protrusions preferably help to properly arrange the various components within the chassis 302 or to protect the components within the chassis 302. For example, a vertical protrusion 350 (shown in FIG. 8C) separates the region for receiving the fragrance emitter 308 from the region having the microcontroller 310. In this way, even when the reservoir 326 is replaced, access is not permitted to the microcontroller 310, thus preventing inadvertent damage or unexpected contamination of the microcontroller 310.

The chassis cover 302a is designed to be positioned on the chassis base 302c, thereby forming an integrated mechanism 300. Preferably, one protrusion or tip 324 is located substantially centered on the chassis cover 302. The tip 324 generally extends vertically away from the chassis base 302b and forms a cavity so that when the chassis cover 302a is placed on the chassis base 302b, therein The light emitting diodes 306a and 306b are located. (As described above, the light emitting diodes 306a, 306b are preferably arranged one above the other.) The tip 324 is substantially cylindrical, preferably the light emitting diodes 306a, 306b. Are made of a material that disperses the light emitted from them. However, for example, when two or more light emitting diodes are used, or when the housing is relatively wide, it is desirable to modify the shape of the protrusion. For example, when a wider tip 324 is used with the wider mechanism 300 (and thus the tip 324 is relatively close to the chassis 302), the tip 324 It may be more like a dome.

The tip 324 is preferably 1/8 to 3 inches high and 1/8 to 3 inches wide. The remainder of the instrument 300 may preferably be 2 to 10 inches high and 1 and 1/2 to 6 inches wide. This arrangement allows the instrument 300 to take substantially the size and shape of several conventional candles, while the tip 324 mimics the flame by wrapping the light emitting diodes 306a and 306b. .

The chassis cover 302a also includes a release hole 336 therethrough. When the chassis cover 302a is placed on the chassis base 302b, the release hole 336 is aligned with the fragrance emitter 308. In particular, the release hole 336 allows the fragrance dispensed by the fragrance emitter 308 to pass through the chassis cover 302a to the surrounding air, i.e. 308) do not interfere with the dissemination of fragrance.

Although not necessary, the chassis cover 302a is preferably secured to the chassis base 302b. For example, as shown in FIG. 8A, the chassis cover 302a is removably secured to the chassis base 302b, for example, the low long term 326 and / or the batteries 318. Allow replacement. When the chassis cover 302a is detachably fixed to the chassis base 302b, a locking mechanism may be employed. For example, a magnet is fixed on the chassis cover 302a and the chassis base 302b, or the chassis cover 302a is designed to correspond to the mating configuration of the chassis base 302b. can do. In this way, specific covers and bases can be used.

In another aspect, when the chassis base 302b and the chassis cover 302a are secured relative to each other to form an integrated mechanism 300, they may vary relative to each other. In particular, when the chassis cover 302a is cylindrical, it can be rotated on the chassis base 302b. For example, rotation of the chassis cover 302a may turn the light emitting diodes 306a and 306b and / or the fragrance emitters 308 on or off.

As a replacement for the removable chassis cover 302a, for example, when a new scent is required or when the reservoir 326 is empty, the appliance 300 is intended to replace the reservoir 326. It may include a hatchway. Specific examples of the two windows 328a and 328b are shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, respectively.

As shown in FIG. 9, the hatch 338a may be located on the side of the instrument 300. The hatch 338a is preferably hinged and is not completely separated from the instrument 300. As shown, the hatch 338a may be opened to access the reservoir 326.

Alternatively, the hatch 338b may be formed at the bottom of the appliance 300. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, a substantially circular hatch 338b can be detached from the instrument 300. In this arrangement, the reservoir 326 is preferably coupled to the hatch 338b. By coupling the reservoir 326 to the hatch, the hatch 338b supports the reservoir 326 and, when assembled, the wick 464 to the atomizer assembly 308. Ensure proper location of In particular, when the hatch 338b is removed, the wick 464 of the reservoir 326 is separated from contact with the atomizer assembly 308. Subsequently, the reservoir 326 is separated from the hatch 338b, a new reservoir 326 is coupled to the hatch 338b, and the reservoir 326 is properly adapted to the atomizer assembly 308. The window 338b is recombined to align. When the hatch 338b of FIG. 10 is used, since the hatch 338b performs its function, the horizontal platform 342 for supporting and aligning the reservoir 326 may be unnecessary. . Likewise, the horizontal platform 342 can directly or indirectly support the atomizer assembly 308 with the linear support 466 as described above.

The chassis base 302b may also include one or more apertures 340 through which a user control switch can pass. For example, a toggle switch 332 may allow a user to turn on or off one or more of the fragrance emitter 308 and the light emitting diodes 306a and 306b, and a push-type switch ( 328 may allow a user to adjust the rate (rate) of fragrance emitted from the fragrance emitter 308. Alternatively or additionally, the switches may also allow a user to adjust the light emitting characteristics of the light emitting diodes 306a and 306b or to change what the emitted light is seen.

Thus, the third embodiment still provides a mechanism 300 that emits light and fragrance. As with the first and second embodiments described above, the instrument 300 is arranged to mimic the size and shape of conventional candles.

As can be appreciated, in each of the above preferred embodiments, the integrated housing includes a mechanism for releasing both active ingredients such as blinking light and fragrance into the surrounding air. As described above, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the instrument is inserted into a holder. In much the same way that typical, replaceable, candle for the garden can be placed in decorative holders, the present invention also provides unique holders for use with the light-emitting device according to the present invention.

5 shows the instrument 100 of the first embodiment in the holder 104. In particular, the holder 104 has a bottom, an open tip, and has a spherical shape, similar to a conventional holder for candles for shafts. The integrated housing, comprising a combination of the chassis 102 and the base 103, is positioned inside the holder 104 through the open tip of the holder 104. Preferably, at least a portion of the holder 104 may allow light to be emitted therethrough. 11 and 12A-12D show some representative alternative holder 304 arrangements, within which an instrument 300 can be located that emits light and fragrance. It is not limited to these embodiments.

If a fragrance emitter is used, the released fragrance must also be released from the holder, so that the holder preferably provides sufficient aeration. In particular, the light and fragrance emitting device is preferably disposed within the holder, located between 1 and 6 inches (25.4 to 152.4 mm) from the tip of the holder and substantially spaced from the inner surface of the holder. Allow the fragrance to be dispensed through the release holes. In particular, the release hole may be located between the same height as the holder and about 5 inches (127.0 mm) from the tip of the holder. By this arrangement, it is possible to minimize the accumulation of fragrance inside the holder. Moreover, the holder can be designed to help the fragrance flow into the environment. By inclining the holder to narrow the width of the holder near the tip of the holder, the air flow can be increased more than the holder is intact. Furthermore, it is desirable that the holder does not interfere with the emission of light from the light emitting diodes. In particular, the integrated housing preferably has the tip (as described above, as used in the first and third embodiments) 1/2 to 2 inches (12.7 to 50.8 mm) from the holder. In between, it is preferably arranged in the holder such that it is located close to 1 inch (25.4 mm). The holder can also function as a diffuser. Moreover, the holder may further comprise a pan, for example, to further aid in the dispersion of the fragrance emitted from the fragrance emitter.

The holder may comprise a single piece in which the housing is placed. Alternatively, as shown in FIGS. 12A-12D, the holder 304 may further include a holder base 304a and a holder cover 304b. In particular, the mechanism includes a holder base 304a for receiving and supporting the holder cover 304b. When supported by the holder base 304a, the holder cover 304b covers the tip 324. That is, light emitted from the housing by the individual light emitting devices passes through the holder cover 304b. Alternatively, the housing, for example the tip 324, may not disperse emitted light, only the holder cover 304b may disperse emitted light.

As a specific embodiment of this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12A, a holder base 304a comprising an integrated instrument as described above in preferred embodiments is radially outwardly from the holder base 304a. It may include an extending cylindrical lip 304c. The lower portion 304d of the holder cover 304b is sized to engage the lip 304c of the holder base 304a, thereby placing the holder cover 304b on the holder base 304a. ) Can be put on. Other specific embodiments of the holders 304 are shown in FIGS. 12B-12D.

Although the holder cover 304b is embodied as being placed on the holder base 304a, the holder cover 304b is preferably detachably attached to the holder base 304a. For example, the holder cover 304b may be designed to snap onto the holder base 304a. Alternatively, the holder cover 304b and the holder base 304a may be designed such that the holder cover 304b rotates on the holder base 304a to form a lock coupling. In this or other arrangements, the holder cover 304b may be relatively variable when fixed to the holder base 304a. In particular, when the holder cover 304b is generally cylindrical, the holder cover rotates about the holder base 304a to turn on the light emitting diodes 306a and 306b and / or the fragrance emitters 308 or You can turn it off. Alternatively, the coupling and disassembly of the holder cover 304b and the holder base 304a may be configured to act to turn on or off the light source and / or the fragrance emitter. In this way, the mechanism can be operated with only the holder cover 304b attached. Moreover, the holder cover 304b and the holder base 304a can in particular be designed such that only the cover 304b is used with the holder base 304a. For example, the holder base 304a may include a reader (not shown) capable of reading an identification code ID (eg, an RF tag) of the holder cover 304b. . In this way, the mechanism can be made inoperative unless the holder cover 304b has the appropriate identification.

In the case of using the holder 304 according to the present embodiment, the holder cover 304b may allow the fragrance to be emitted therefrom. For example, impregnable materials are known, such as polyolefins, which are scented or embedded. By forming the holder cover 304b with such a material, the holder cover 304b can release the fragrance for a longer time in addition to that emitted by the fragrance emitter 308. Alternatively, the apparatus of this embodiment may not include the fragrance emitter 308, in which case only the holder cover 304b may emit fragrance. Also, for the second embodiment described above, the combination of chassis and base may mimic decorative candles, in which case the holder may not be required. In this case, the base or sash may contain a scent.

Since the holder cover 304b of this embodiment is detachable, it is easy to access the apparatus (for example, the light emitting diodes 306a and 306b can be turned on or off), and the holder cover 304b ) Can be easily replaced. For example, when the fragrance impregnated in the holder cover 304b is completely consumed, a new holder cover 304b can be easily purchased and attached. In addition, a user who has recently rebuilt or wants to move the instrument to another room can purchase a holder cover 304b with a particular color or other flavor. Moreover, the replacement holder cover 304b may provide a different odor. In other embodiments, the entire holder (or base) can be replaced.

While various preferred embodiments have been described above, many other embodiments are possible without departing from the spirit and aspects of the invention. The present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments. On the contrary, the invention is to be considered to include all such various modifications and equivalent changes within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. It is intended that the claims be interpreted in their broadest terms, including all such modifications, equivalent structures and functions.

The present invention provides a device for emitting light and / or aroma. The appliance provides the desired appearance as a whole in a space such as a room.

Claims (25)

One or more light emitting diodes emitting a blinking light that mimics the flame of a candle; Emitters that release volatile active ingredients, A power source for supplying power to the at least one light emitting diode and the emitter; a control circuit for controlling at least one of (i) causing said one or more light emitting diodes to blink and (ii) causing said emitter to emit said volatile active ingredient; A support structure for supporting the at least one light emitting diode, the emitter, the power supply, and the control circuit; The support structure includes a chassis and a holder that is relatively movable relative to the chassis, the relative movement of the holder relative to the chassis actuating a switch to control the one or more light emitting diodes, the holder being one or more. A light emitting and active component emitting device comprising a light spreader for dispersing light emitted from a light emitting diode. delete delete The method of claim 1, And the emitter includes an atomizer for atomizing the liquid contained in the reservoir, wherein the reservoir is detachably fixed to the support structure to engage the atomizer. The method of claim 4, wherein And a switch for controlling the amount of volatile active ingredient emitted by the atomizer. delete delete delete delete The method of claim 1, The light disperser is a light emitting device of the active component and the light is formed of any one of wax, glass and plastic. The method of claim 1, Wherein said power supply comprises a single battery and wherein voltage step-up is used to supply sufficient power to either or both of said light source and said emitter. delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete

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