[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. non-provisional patent application having serial number 16/725,778 filed on December 23, 2019, which itself claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application having serial number 62/798,879 filed on January 30, 2019. These and all other referenced extrinsic materials are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Where a definition or use of a term in a reference that is incorporated by reference is inconsistent or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein is deemed to be controlling.

Field of the Invention

[0002] The field of the invention is electrical lighting devices that simulate a flame.

Background

[0003] The following description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.

[0004] Various electrical lighting products currently exist, but none provide for a larger scale flame effect in a portable package. While electric fireplaces can produce a simulated flame, such devices are generally not portable and can be expensive.

[0005] All publications identified herein are incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. Where a definition or use of a term in an incorporated reference is inconsistent or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein applies and the definition of that term in the reference does not apply.

[0006] Thus, there is still a need for improved electrical lighting devices that simulate a flame.

Summary of The Invention

[0007] The inventive subject matter provides apparatus, systems and methods in which a device comprises a plurality of light sources disposed on a flexible PCB that are each illuminated according to a program stored in a memory to create a 360 degree effect of moving flames. The use of a flexible PCB permits the PCB to be disposed in a cylindrical shape and disposing the light sources directly on the PCB helps to eliminates wires to simplify assembly. Although a single PCB is shown and described, it is contemplated that multiple PCBs could be used that may face in different directions without departing from the scope of the invention. Thus, for example, for a hexagonal shaped housing, it is

contemplated that six PCBs could be used, or two PCBs each shaped into a semi-circle, for example.

[0008] First and second diffusers can be disposed about the plurality of light sources such that the light sources are viewed through both the first and second diffusers. The use of two diffusers rather than a single diffuser creates a more realistic flame effect, as the light sources illuminate in a steady or non-steady manner.

[0009] Each of the diffusers preferably comprises one or more sheets having a series of parallel, horizontal lines etched or embedded into each of the sheets. It is especially preferred that such lines are laser-etched into each sheet.

[0010] Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.

Brief Description of The Drawings

[0011] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a simulated flame device.

[0012] Fig. 2 is a horizontal cross-section view of one embodiment of a simulated flame device.

[0013] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a PCB and plurality of light sources in one embodiment of the simulated flame device.

[0014] Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the PCB and plurality of light sources with some of the light sources illuminated.

[0015] Fig. 5 is a top perspective view of one embodiment of a diffuser sheet and holder. [0016] Figs. 6-7 are top and perspective views, respectively, of one embodiment of a diffuser sheet disposed about a plurality of light sources.

[0017] Fig. 8 is an exploded view of the simulated flame device of Fig. 1.

[0018] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of the diffuser sheet disposed about a plurality of light sources of Fig. 6 with some of the light sources illuminated.

[0019] Fig. 10 is a perspective view of the simulated flame device of Fig. 1 with some of the light sources illuminated.

Detailed Description

[0020] Throughout the following discussion, numerous references will be made regarding servers, services, interfaces, portals, platforms, or other systems formed from computing devices. It should be appreciated that the use of such terms is deemed to represent one or more computing devices having at least one processor configured to execute software instructions stored on a computer readable tangible, non-transitory medium. For example, a server can include one or more computers operating as a web server, database server, or other type of computer server in a manner to fulfill described roles, responsibilities, or functions.

[0021] The following discussion provides many example embodiments of the inventive subject matter. Although each embodiment represents a single combination of inventive elements, the inventive subject matter is considered to include all possible combinations of the disclosed elements. Thus if one embodiment comprises elements A, B, and C, and a second embodiment comprises elements B and D, then the inventive subject matter is also considered to include other remaining combinations of A, B, C, or D, even if not explicitly disclosed.

[0022] Figures 1-10 illustrate one embodiment of a simulated flame device 100 disposed within a lantern housing 102. The housing 102 preferably comprises a second diffuser 108 which comprises a plurality of sheets 110 disposed in a hexagonal manner. However, it is contemplated that the sheets could be disposed about the interior to form different shapes including, for example, a square, a pentagon, a heptagon, an octagon, and so forth. It is especially preferred that each sheet 110 of the second diffuser 108 has a width that is approximately the same as the radius of the first diffuser 106 disposed within the device 100. As used in this paragraph, the term approximately means within 15% of the value. [0023] Figure 2 illustrates a horizontal, cross-section schematic of the device 100 with housing 102 having a hexagonal shape. Housing 102 preferably comprises a set of sheets 110 that collectively form the second diffuser 108. Each of the sheets 110 are preferably composed of plastic and have a series of parallel, horizontal lines etched or embedded within each sheet.

[0024] A first diffuser 106 is disposed within the housing 102, such that the first diffuser 106 is surrounded by the second diffuser 108. As shown in Figures 5-7, the first diffuser 106 comprises a plastic cylindrical housing having a radius R with a diffuser sheet 107 disposed within the cylindrical housing. Like the sheets 110, diffuser sheet 107 is preferably composed of plastic and has a series of parallel, horizontal lines etched or embedded within the diffuser sheet 107.

[0025] Disposed within the first diffuser 106 is a PCB 120 on which a plurality of light sources 122 are disposed. An example of the arrangement of the plurality of light sources 122 on the PCB 120 is shown in Figures 3-4. It is preferred that the PCB 120 is flexible and shaped into a cylindrical shape.

[0026] Preferred light sources comprise LEDs that can be configured to blink in a controlled or uncontrolled manner. In some contemplated embodiments, the LEDs each emit light having the same color or wavelength. However, in other contemplated embodiments, it is contemplated that some of the LEDs could emit light having a different color or wavelength from others of the LEDs. In still further contemplated embodiments, some or all of the LEDs could be RGB LEDs such that a variety of wavelengths of light could be emitted and that can vary over time.

[0027] In this arrangement, the first and second diffusers 106, 108 create a two-stage diffuser window through which the plurality of light sources 122 can be viewed. The series of etched or embedded lines of each of the sheets 110 and diffuser sheet 107 create an effect that stretches the light from each of the plurality of light sources 122 vertically. This can be seen by comparing Figure 4 where no diffuser is used to Figure 9 where the light sources are viewed through the first diffuser 106 causing the light emanated to stretch vertically where the boundary of the light illuminated by each light source is thinner at the top than the bottom to form a tear-drop like shape. When the light sources 122 are viewed through the first and second diffusers 106, 108, as shown in Figure 10, the light emanated from each of the light sources 122 is further diffused such that the light illuminated by each light source is thinner at the top and bottom and wider in the middle.

[0028] Figure 3 illustrates an embodiment of a flexible PCB 120 coupled to a base 130. As discussed above, the PCB 120 preferably comprises a plurality of LEDs or other light sources 122 disposed on the PCB 120. The flexible PCB 120 is preferably formed into a cylindrical shape, although other shapes could be used. As shown, the light sources 122 are preferably disposed on the PCB 120 in a series of rows with each row having a set of light sources disposed in the row at a same height as the other light sources of that row. The PCB 120 shown in Figure 3 has six rows, although fewer or additional rows of light sources could be used depending on the size and shape of the PCB 120, for example. The specific number of LEDs or other light sources per row may also vary depending on the size and shape of the PCB 120.

[0029] It is especially preferred that the light sources of one row are disposed in a staggered manner relative to the light sources of adjacent rows. In such arrangement, LEDs of the same column will be two rows apart. Of course, it is contemplated that the PCB could instead have additional light sources per row such that each row has a light source in the same column and the pattern of which light sources are illuminated and when may vary.

[0030] The PCB 120 is preferably connected with a processor and memory, which together determine the pattern / program for illuminating the plurality of light sources. In a simple manner, it is contemplated that each of the light sources can be illuminated and turned off at predetermined times according to a program stored within the memory. Preferably, one or more of the light sources blinks such that it turns on and off according to the program. It is especially preferred that some of the light sources blink more rapidly than others of the light sources. In addition, it is contemplated that some of the light sources may be illuminated or turned off for a longer period than others of the light sources.

[0031] In addition to simply turning on and off, it is contemplated that one or more of the light sources could vary in brightness rather than turning off (i.e., dimming or brightening) according to a stored program, and/or could vary in wavelength of light emitted.

[0032] The base 130 preferably is configured to receive a power source that can power the electronics of device 100. Such power source could be disposed batteries, a rechargeable battery, or electronics that permit a line voltage to be received. The base 130 is configured to hold the PCB 120 in place, and may contain a switch to power the device 100 on or off. In some embodiments, the base 130 may also contain a RF receiver, a Bluetooth transmitter, or other component to permit wireless control of the device 100.

[0033] In some embodiments, the plurality of light sources 122 can be grouped into an upper region (subset) 140 and a lower region (subset) 142. In such embodiments, it is contemplated that the lower subset 142 of light sources are configured to blink on and off at a first interval, and the upper subset 140 of light sources are configured to blink on and off at a second interval for a certain number of times that is then followed by a pause (i.e. turned off) for a third interval. Preferably, the third interval is greater than the first interval which is greater than the second interval. Put another way, the lower subset 142 of light sources blink at a reduced frequency than the upper subset 140 of light sources (when the light sources of the upper subset are illuminated).

[0034] It is especially preferred that all the lower subset 142 of light sources blink on and off at the first interval in a continuous manner. In contrast, only some of the upper subset 140 of light sources will be illuminated at any given moment. Of those that are illuminated, it is contemplated that they blink (or otherwise change brightness or color) in a different interval than the lower subset 142 of light sources, and preferably in a more rapid interval (i.e.

blinking on and off more frequently). In some embodiments, the lower subset 142 of light sources may blink every 0.25 seconds.

[0035] One or more of the upper subset 140 of light sources preferably turn off for a third interval of time after a set number of iterations of blinking or otherwise varying a brightness of the light source.

[0036] In some embodiments, a group of the upper subset 140 of light sources can be illuminated. Over time, the specific group of light sources of the upper subset 140 can vary according to the program and in a pattern. For example, in one embodiment, the program could cause one or more light sources that are adjacent to the group of light sources to turn off while one or more others of the light sources that are adjacent to the group of light sources to turn on to thereby emulate moving flames.

[0037] Figure 4 illustrates the PCB 120 of Figure 3 with some of the light sources 122A illuminated, while others of the light sources 122B are turned off. [0038] Figures 5-7 illustrates one embodiment of the first diffuser 106. As briefly discussed above, the first diffuser comprises a diffuser sheet 107 that is preferably composed of plastic and has a series of parallel, horizontal lines etched or embedded within each sheet. The etched lines are preferably continuous from one side to the opposing side of the sheet 107, but could be discontinuous. It is especially preferred that the lines are laser etched in the plastic sheet 107 to allow for close proximity of neighboring lines and reduce the width of each line. The etched lines create an effect that“stretches” the light from the light sources in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the etched lines. Thus, because the etched lines are disposed horizontally, the first diffuser 106 creates generally vertical lines of lights each having a variable width that is larger on the bottom than the top. However, if the etched lines were disposed vertically, this would cause the light emanated from the slight sources to “stretch” horizontally.

[0039] The diffuser sheet 107 is preferably disposed in a clear cylindrical tube 150, within which the PCB 120 can also be disposed. The clear, cylindrical tube 150 is preferably injection molded from plastic, although the specific material and manner of manufacture can vary. Tube 150 preferably has a radius R. The diffuser sheet 107 is preferably disposed within the tube 150, such that the sheet 107 abuts an inner surface of the tube 150. Though less preferred, it is contemplated that the sheet 107 and tube 150 could form a single piece.

[0040] Figures 6 and 7 illustrates different views of the first diffuser 106 with the PCB 120 and plurality of light source 122 disposed concentrically within the first diffuser 106. As shown and described above, the first diffuser 106 comprises a clear, cylindrical tube 150 with a diffuser sheet 107 disposed against the inner surface of the tube 150.

[0041] Figure 8 illustrates an exploded view of the various components of the device 100 described above. The PCB 120 and light sources can be disposed concentrically within the first diffuser 106, which comprises clear tube 150 having diffuser sheet 107 abutting an inner surface of the tube 150. First and second opposing edges of the diffuser sheet 107 meet at line 152. Base 130 is configured to maintain a relative position of the first diffuser 106 and the PCB 120, while also holding a power source, as well as memory and processor that are connected to the PCB 120.

[0042] The base 130, first diffuser 106 and PCB 120 are inserted within housing 102, preferably through a bottom opening. As discussed above, the housing 102 comprises the second diffuser 108, which consists of a set of diffuser sheets 110. For best effect, the width W of each diffuser sheet 110 (or at least the visible portion of the diffuser sheet) is approximately equal to the radius R of the first diffuser 106. As light from the light sources 120 passes through the first and second diffusers 106, 108, the light is distorted and elongated. This can be seen by comparing Figure 9 where only the first diffuser 106 is present to Figure 10 where the first and second diffusers are present.

[0043] Preferably, the second diffuser 108 is separated from, and disposed about, the first diffuser 106, such that the first diffuser 106 and flexible PCB 120 are disposed within the second diffuser 108. Each of the sheets 110 are preferably separated by a space between adjacent ones of the sheets 110. In the embodiment shown, the space can be a non-opaque structure of the housing 102, where each of the sheets 110 are disposed within windows of the housing 102. In this manner, the degree of viewing of the effect is limited to generally where the light sources are located to avoid the darker side areas being viewed.

[0044] In some contemplated embodiments, it is contemplated that there could be a 0.25 inch spacing between the PCB 120 and the first diffuser 106, and a 0.5 inch spacing between the first and second diffusers 106, 108. In other words, a 1 :2 ratio in relative spacing. Of course, the specific distances between components may vary depending on the size of the device 100, for example.

[0045] As used herein, and unless the context dictates otherwise, the term "coupled to" is intended to include both direct coupling (in which two elements that are coupled to each other contact each other) and indirect coupling (in which at least one additional element is located between the two elements). Therefore, the terms "coupled to" and "coupled with" are used synonymously.

[0046] In some embodiments, the numbers expressing quantities of ingredients, properties such as concentration, reaction conditions, and so forth, used to describe and claim certain embodiments of the invention are to be understood as being modified in some instances by the term“about.” Accordingly, in some embodiments, the numerical parameters set forth in the written description and attached claims are approximations that can vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by a particular embodiment. In some embodiments, the numerical parameters should be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope of some embodiments of the invention are approximations, the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely as practicable. The numerical values presented in some

embodiments of the invention may contain certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements.

[0047] Unless the context dictates the contrary, all ranges set forth herein should be interpreted as being inclusive of their endpoints and open-ended ranges should be interpreted to include only commercially practical values. Similarly, all lists of values should be considered as inclusive of intermediate values unless the context indicates the contrary.

[0048] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of“a,”“an,” and“the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of“in” includes“in” and“on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0049] The recitation of ranges of values herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each individual value with a range is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g.“such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention.

[0050] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is herein deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the written description of all Markush groups used in the appended claims. [0051] It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that many more modifications besides those already described are possible without departing from the inventive concepts herein. The inventive subject matter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the spirit of the appended claims. Moreover, in interpreting both the specification and the claims, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms“comprises” and“comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced Where the specification claims refers to at least one of something selected from the group consisting of A, B, C .... and N, the text should be interpreted as requiring only one element from the group, not A plus N, or B plus N, etc.