COMBINATION DEVICE WITH RECHARGEABLE LIGHTER ASSEMBLY AND CANDLE MAINTENANCE DEVICE

BACKGROUND

Globally, approximately six million lighters are purchased on a daily basis, with over ninety-seven percent (97%) being made from non-recyclable disposable plastic. This creates a dramatic pollution problem in oceans, on beaches, and in landfills. Additionally, the global candle market was valued at USD 7.15 Billion in 2020 and is projected to reach USD 13.38 Billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 8.2% from 2021 to 2028.

Accordingly, it is desired to create a non-disposable lighter product that does not create significant pollution and/or other environmental issues, and/or is easily rechargeable and reusable, and that can also incorporate certain additional product features that can be used with candles and in candle maintenance.

SUMMARY

The present invention is directed toward a combination device including a lighter assembly and a candle maintenance device. In various embodiments, the lighter assembly includes an assembly body and a lighting system that is coupled to the assembly body. The candle maintenance device is removably coupled to the assembly body.

In certain embodiments, the assembly body includes an outer surface, and the candle maintenance device is removably coupled to the outer surface of the assembly body. In one such embodiment, the combination device further includes a magnet assembly including one or more magnets that removably, magnetically couple the candle maintenance device to the outer surface of the assembly body. In another such embodiment, the candle maintenance device has a shape that conforms with the outer surface of the assembly body such that the candle maintenance device is form-fit to the outer surface of the assembly body.

In some embodiments, the assembly body defines an insert chamber, and the candle maintenance device is removably positionable within the insert chamber.

The assembly body of the lighter assembly and the candle maintenance device can be formed from any suitable materials. For example, in some embodiments, at least one of the assembly body and the candle maintenance device is formed from non-plastic materials.

In certain embodiments, the lighter assembly is a rechargeable lighter assembly.

In some embodiments, the lighting system is a flameless lighting system.

In certain embodiments, the lighting system includes a pair of electrodes and an electric circuit that is configured to selectively produce an electrical arc between the pair of electrodes. In some such embodiments, the pair of electrodes are selectively movable between a retracted position, where the pair of electrodes are positioned substantially within the assembly body, and an extended position, where the pair of electrodes extend away from the assembly body. In such embodiments, the electric circuit can only produce the electrical arc between the pair of electrodes when the pair of electrodes are in the extended position. The lighting system can also include a tip adjuster for selectively moving the pair of electrodes between the retracted position and the extended position.

In some embodiments, the candle maintenance device includes a wick lifter, a wick trimmer, and a flame snuffer.

The present invention is further directed toward a candle maintenance device that is configured to perform maintenance on a candle including a candle wick, the candle maintenance device including a device body that includes (i) a wick lifter that is configured for selectively lifting the candle wick; (ii) a wick trimmer that is configured for selectively trimmer the candle wick; and (iii) a flame snuffer that is configured to snuff a flame on the candle wick.

The present invention is also directed toward a combination device including (A) a lighter assembly including an assembly body and a lighting system that is coupled to the assembly body, the lighting system including a pair of electrodes and an electric circuit that is configured to selectively produce an electrical arc between the pair of electrodes, the pair of electrodes being selectively movable between a retracted position, where the pair of electrodes are positioned substantially within the assembly body, and an extended position, where the pair of electrodes extend away from the assembly body; and (B) a candle maintenance device that is removably coupled to the assembly body, the candle maintenance device including a device body that includes (i) a wick lifter that is configured for selectively lifting the candle wick; (ii) a wick trimmer that is configured for selectively trimmer the candle wick; and (iii) a flame snuffer that is configured to snuff a flame on the candle wick; wherein the wick lifter and the wick trimmer are incorporated together at a first device end of the candle maintenance device; and wherein the flame snuffer is formed at a second device end of the candle maintenance device.

In other applications, the present invention is further directed toward a method for forming a combination device, and a method for forming a candle maintenance device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features of this invention, as well as the invention itself, both as to its structure and its operation, will be best understood from the accompanying drawings, taken in conjunction with the accompanying description, in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts, and in which:

FIG. 1A is a simplified perspective view illustration of an embodiment of a combination device having features of the present invention, the combination device including a lighter assembly and a candle maintenance device;

FIG. 1B is a simplified partially exploded view illustration of the combination device illustrated in FIG. 1A;

FIG. 2A is a simplified perspective view illustration of another embodiment of the combination device;

FIG. 2B is another simplified perspective view illustration of the combination device illustrated in FIG. 2A;

FIG. 2C is a simplified partially exploded view illustration of the combination device illustrated in FIG. 2A;

FIG. 2D is another simplified partially exploded view illustration of the combination device illustrated in FIG. 2A;

FIG. 3A is a simplified perspective view illustration of still another embodiment of the combination device;

FIG. 3B is another simplified perspective view illustration of the combination device illustrated in FIG. 3A;

FIG. 3C is a simplified partially exploded view illustration of the combination device illustrated in FIG. 3A;

FIG. 3D is another simplified partially exploded view illustration of the combination device illustrated in FIG. 3A.

DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the present invention are described herein in the context of a combination device that includes a lighter assembly, such as a rechargeable lighter assembly, and a uniquely configured candle maintenance device that is removably coupled to the (rechargeable) lighter assembly. In some embodiments, the candle maintenance device can include one or more of a wick lifter, a wick trimmer, and a flame snuffer. The combination device can be formed from materials, such as non-plastic materials, that can inhibit any potentially adverse environmental impacts.

Those of ordinary skill in the art will realize that the following detailed description of the present invention is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. Other embodiments of the present invention will readily suggest themselves to such skilled persons having the benefit of this disclosure. Reference will now be made in detail to implementations of the present invention as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

In the interest of clarity, not all of the routine features of the implementations described herein are shown and described. It will, of course, be appreciated that in the development of any such actual implementation, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made in order to achieve the developer's specific goals, such as compliance with application-related and business-related constraints, and that these specific goals will vary from one implementation to another and from one developer to another. Moreover, it will be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time-consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking of engineering for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

FIG. 1A is a simplified perspective view illustration of an embodiment of a combination device 10 having features of the present invention. The design of the combination device 10 can be varied. In various embodiments, the combination device 10 includes a lighter assembly 12, such as a rechargeable lighter assembly, and a candle maintenance device 14 that is selectively and/or removably coupled to the lighter assembly 12. Alternatively, the combination device 10 can include additional components that are not specifically illustrated in FIG. 1A.

The design of the lighter assembly 12 can be varied to suit the requirements of the combination device 10 and/or to accommodate the specific design features of the candle maintenance device 14. As shown in FIG. 1A, the lighter assembly 12 includes an assembly body 16, and a lighting system 18 that is coupled to the assembly body 16. As illustrated, in embodiments wherein the lighter assembly 12 is a rechargeable lighter assembly, the lighter assembly 12 can further include a recharging system 20 (a portion of which is illustrated in phantom) for selectively recharging the lighter assembly 12.

The assembly body 16 can be any suitable size and shape. In some embodiments, the assembly body 16 can have an ergonomically pleasing shape that is both aesthetically pleasing and easy to hold and operate for a user. The assembly body 16 can also be designed to be any desired color and/or to have any desired print design. It is also appreciated that the assembly body 16 is generally configured for ease of use by the user, as well as being configured for safety of the user by enabling the user to hold and operate the lighter assembly 12 while keeping hands away from any potentially dangerous features of the lighter assembly 12.

In certain non-exclusive alternative embodiments, the assembly body 16 can have an elongated shape with a body length 16L (illustrated in FIG. 1B) of between approximately three inches and twelve inches (or between approximately 7.5 centimeters and 30.0 centimeters), a body width 16W (illustrated in FIG. 1B) of between approximately one inch and two inches (or between approximately 2.5 centimeters and 5.0 centimeters), and a body thickness 16T of between approximately one-half inch and one inch (or between approximately 1.25 centimeters and 2.5 centimeters). Alternatively, the assembly body 16 can have dimensions that are greater than or less than the specifications specifically noted herein.

The assembly body 16 can be formed from any suitable materials. In various embodiments, the assembly body 16 can be formed from non-plastic materials so as to inhibit many potential pollution issues that occur with lighters formed from plastic materials. For example, in some non-exclusive alternative such embodiments, the assembly body 16 can be formed from sustainable metal materials such as a molded steel or brass material. Alternatively, the assembly body 16 can be formed from other suitable, non-plastic, materials. Still alternatively, the assembly body 16 can be formed from recycled plastics, bio-plastics or other materials that would also inhibit any adverse impacts on the environment.

The lighting system 18 is configured to provide a lighting source for lighting candles, candle wicks, grills, fireplaces, or other suitable items. In certain embodiments, the lighting system 18 is configured to utilize flameless technology to provide continuous wind-proof power. More particularly, in such embodiments, the lighting system 18 can employ an arc lighting system for providing the desired lighting source. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1A, the lighting system 18 includes a pair of electrodes 24, an electric circuit 25 (illustrated in phantom), an electrode tip adjuster 26 (also sometimes referred to herein simply as a “tip adjuster”), and a power control 28. Alternatively, the lighting system 18 can have another suitable design and/or can include more components or fewer components than those illustrated and described herein.

The electrodes 24 are configured to be selectively movable between an extended position, as shown in FIG. 1A, where the electrodes 24 extend away from a first end 16A of the assembly body 16, and a retracted position, as shown in FIG. 1B, where the electrodes 24 are positioned substantially within the assembly body 16, i.e. at or near the first end 16A of the assembly body 16. In one embodiment, the electrodes 24 are selectively movable between the extended position and the retracted position with the tip adjuster 26. More particularly, in such embodiment, the tip adjuster 26 can be a slide mechanism that selectively moves the electrodes 24 between the extended position and the retracted position. Alternatively, the tip adjuster 26 can have another suitable design and/or can selectively move the electrodes 24 between the extended position and the retracted position in another suitable manner. For example, in certain non-exclusive alternative embodiments, the tip adjuster 26 can be provided in the form of a rotating dial, a switch and/or another suitable mechanism usable for purposes of selectively moving the electrodes 24 between the extended position and the retracted position.

During use of the lighter assembly 12, the electrodes 24 are moved to the extended position, such as via the tip adjuster 26, and an electrical arc 30 can be created between the pair of electrodes 24. More specifically, the electric circuit 25 is usable, such as via activation of the power control 28, to produce an electrical arc 30 between the electrodes 24 when the electrodes 24 are in the extended position. The high level of heat generated by the electrical arc 30 should be sufficient to provide the desired lighting source for lighting candles, candle wicks, grills, fireplaces, or other suitable items.

The electric circuit 25 can have any suitable design for purposes of producing the electrical arc 30 between the electrodes 24. For example, the electric circuit 25 can use oscillators, resonant circuits or power inverters, step-up transformers, diode-capacitor voltage multipliers, etc. The electric circuit 25 can be configured to produce an alternating high-voltage discharge or a continuous direct current discharge. The electric circuit 25 can be powered by any suitable internal power source 31A (illustrated in phantom), such as one or more batteries, capacitors or super capacitors.

As shown in FIG. 1A, the tip adjuster 26 and the power control 28, such as an on/off control button, can be positioned near a second end 16B of the assembly body 16. With such design, the user can hold the assembly body 16 of the lighter assembly 12 near the second end 16B while operating the lighter assembly 12, such as through operation of the tip adjuster 26 and/or the power control 28, and thus be able to avoid the electrical arc 30 that is produced between the electrodes 24 as they extend away from the first end 16A of the assembly body 16.

As noted above, in some embodiments, the lighter assembly 12 can include the recharging system 20 for selectively recharging the lighter assembly 12. In certain such embodiments, the recharging system 20 is usable for selectively recharging the internal power source 31A that is configured to provide the necessary power to the lighting system 18. The design of the recharging system 20 can be varied. In certain embodiments, the recharging system 20 can include a recharging port 32 (illustrated in phantom), a recharging cable 33 that can be selectively coupled to a remote power source 31B (illustrated as a box), and a charge indicator 34 (illustrated in phantom).

The recharging port 32 can have any suitable design. In one non-exclusive embodiment, the recharging port 32 can be a universal micro-USB to USB recharging port that extends through the assembly body 16 and that is electrically coupled to the internal power source 31A within the assembly body 16. Alternatively, the recharging port 32 can have another suitable design.

When it is desired to recharge the lighting system 18, the recharging cable 33 can be selectively, electrically coupled to and extend between the recharging port 32 and the remote power source 31B. The remote power source 31B can be a computer port, such as a USB port, a wall outlet, or another suitable remote power source.

The charge indicator 34 can be used to indicate the level of charge that exists at any given time within the internal power source 31A. The charge indicator 34 can have any suitable design. For example, in one embodiment, the charge indicator 34 can include an LED light that indicates the level of charge within the internal power source 31A. Alternatively, the charge indicator 34 can have another suitable design.

In certain alternative embodiments, the recharging system 20 can have a different design and/or have more components or fewer components than what is shown in FIG. 1A. For example, in one non-exclusive alternative embodiment, the recharging system 20, at least in part, can be incorporated within and/or be selectively coupled to the internal power source 31A itself. More particularly, in such embodiment, the internal power source 31A can be selectively coupled to a detachable (battery) charging unit 331C (illustrated in FIG. 3A), such as with a USB-type connection. In such embodiment, when deemed necessary, such as when indicated by the charge indicator 34, the detachable charging unit 331C can be removed and/or detached from the internal power source 31A and can then be plugged directly into the remote power source 31B to charge the detachable charging unit 331C. Once the detachable charging unit 331C is again charged as desired, the detachable charging unit 331C can again be coupled to the internal power source 31A to provide the desired power for the lighter assembly 12.

The candle maintenance device 14 can be selectively and/or removably coupled to lighter assembly 12 and/or the assembly body 16 in any suitable manner. As shown in FIG. 1A, in some embodiments, the assembly body 16 defines an insert chamber 22 that is configured to selectively receive and retain the candle maintenance device 14. More specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 1A, the candle maintenance device 14 can be selectively and removably positioned within the insert chamber 22. Alternatively, the candle maintenance device 14 can be coupled to the lighter assembly 12 and/or the assembly body 16 in another suitable manner. For example, in another non-exclusive embodiment, the candle maintenance device 14 can be removably coupled to an outer surface of the assembly body 16 in any suitable manner.

In certain embodiments, the candle maintenance device 14 can be slidably removable from and/or slidably insertable into the insert chamber 22. In some embodiments, the candle maintenance device 14 is fully removable from the assembly body 16 of the lighter assembly 12 such that the candle maintenance device 14 can be used and operated independently from the assembly body 16.

FIG. 1B is a simplified partially exploded view illustration of the combination device 10 illustrated in FIG. 1A, with the candle maintenance device 14 being shown spaced apart from the lighter assembly 12, such that the candle maintenance device 14 is no longer positioned within the insert chamber 22.

In FIG. 1B, various details of the candle maintenance device 14 are now visible. The candle maintenance device 14 can include various features so as to provide various functions of candle maintenance. In particular, in various embodiments, the candle maintenance device 14 includes a device body 35 that incorporates each of a wick lifter 36, a wick trimmer 38, and a flame snuffer 40 within the design of the device body 35.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1B, the wick lifter 36 and the wick trimmer 38 can be incorporated together at a first device end 42 of the candle maintenance device 14, and the flame snuffer 40 can be formed at a second device end 44 of the candle maintenance device 14. Alternatively, the wick lifter 36, the wick trimmer 38 and/or the flame snuffer 40 can be positioned in any other suitable manner within the candle maintenance device 14.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1B, the wick lifter 36 and the wick trimmer 38 can be provided in the form of a closed-shape with an aperture 45 therein to provide an open interior that is formed at the first device end 42. In one embodiment, the closed-shape and the aperture 45 can both be substantially diamond-shaped. Alternatively, the closed-shape and/or the aperture can have another suitable shape. Still alternatively, in other embodiments, the wick lifter 36 and/or the wick trimmer 38 can have an open-shaped design.

During use of the candle maintenance device 14, the wick lifter 36 can be provided by a device tip 46 that is formed at the first device end 42, the device tip 46 forming a portion of the closed-shape. The device tip 46 can be inserted into wax around the candle wick such that the wick lifter 36 is able to lift the candle wick from within the wax into a more upright position. The wick lifter 36 can be further utilized to remove any excess wax from around the candle wick before each lighting of the candle wick.

In certain embodiments, the wick trimmer 38 is formed via interior edges 48 of the aperture 45 that is formed into the closed-shape design of the first device end 42. More specifically, in one embodiment, the interior edges 48 of the aperture 48 provide a sharpened surface with which to trim (or cut) the candle wick as desired. During use, the closed-shape at the first device end 42 is positioned about the candle wick such that the candle wick is positioned within the aperture 45. The candle maintenance device 14 is then twisted such that one or more of the interior edges 48 of the wick trimmer 38 come into contact with the candle wick. With the continued twisting and pulling of the candle maintenance device 14, the contact of the interior edges 48 with the candle wick creates tension in the candle wick, and the sharpened interior edges 48 of the aperture 45 are then able to trim (or cut) the candle wick to a desired length.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1B, the flame snuffer 40 is formed at the second device end 44 of the candle maintenance device 14. In one embodiment, the flame snuffer 40 is usable to gently push the burning candle wick into the wax so as to extinguish the flame in a smoke-free manner. Alternatively, the flame snuffer 40 can have another suitable design and/or can work in another suitable manner. For example, in one non-exclusive alternative embodiment, the flame snuffer 40 can have include and/or incorporate a cone-like shape that can be selectively positioned over the flame to inhibit air from getting to the flame. In such manner, the inhibiting of air from getting to the flame can extinguish the flame in a smoke-free manner.

As with the assembly body 16 of the lighter assembly 12, the candle maintenance device 14 can be formed from any suitable materials. In various embodiments, the candle maintenance device 14 can be formed from non-plastic materials so as to inhibit many potential pollution issues that occur with lighters formed from plastic materials. For example, in some non-exclusive alternative such embodiments, the candle maintenance device 14 can be formed from sustainable metal materials such as a molded steel or brass material. Alternatively, the candle maintenance device can be formed from other suitable, non-plastic, materials. Still alternatively, the candle maintenance device 14 can be formed from recycled plastics, bio-plastics or other materials that would also inhibit any adverse impacts on the environment.

FIG. 2A is a simplified perspective view illustration of another embodiment of the combination device 210. As illustrated in FIG. 2A, the combination device 210 is somewhat similar to what has been illustrated and described in relation to the previous embodiments. For example, as shown, the combination device 210 again includes a lighter assembly 212, such as a rechargeable lighter assembly, and a candle maintenance device 214 that is selectively and/or removably coupled to the lighter assembly 212, which are somewhat similar to previous embodiments. However, in this embodiment, the overall design of the lighter assembly 212 and the candle maintenance device 214, and the manner of coupling the candle maintenance device 214 to the lighter assembly 212 are somewhat different than in the previous embodiments.

Similar to the previous embodiments, the lighter assembly 212 again includes an assembly body 216, and a lighting system 218 that is coupled to the assembly body 216. In some embodiments, the lighter assembly 212 can also include a recharging system 220 for selectively recharging the lighter assembly 212.

As illustrated in FIG. 2A, although the assembly body 216 again includes an ergonomically pleasing shape that is both aesthetically pleasing and easy to hold and operate for the user, the overall shape of the assembly body 216 is somewhat different than in previous embodiments. It is further appreciated that the combination device 210 as a whole can also have a similar ergonomically pleasing shape, such as when the candle maintenance device 214 is coupled to the assembly body 216 of the lighter assembly 212.

The assembly body 216 can again be formed from any suitable materials. In various embodiments, the assembly body 216 can be formed from non-plastic materials so as to inhibit many potential pollution issues that occur with lighters formed from plastic materials. For example, in some non-exclusive alternative such embodiments, the assembly body 216 can be formed from sustainable metal materials such as a molded steel or brass material. Alternatively, the assembly body 216 can be formed from other suitable, non-plastic, materials. Still alternatively, the assembly body 216 can be formed from recycled plastics, bio-plastics or other materials that would also inhibit any adverse impacts on the environment.

The lighting system 218 is configured to provide a lighting source for lighting candles, candle wicks, grills, fireplaces, or other suitable items. In certain embodiments, the lighting system 218 can employ an arc lighting system for providing the desired lighting source. In one embodiment, the lighting system 218 includes a pair of electrodes 224 (illustrated in FIG. 2C), an electric circuit 225 (illustrated in phantom), an electrode tip adjuster 226 (also sometimes referred to herein simply as a “tip adjuster”), and a power control 228. Alternatively, the lighting system 218 can have another suitable design and/or can include more components or fewer components than those illustrated and described herein.

The electrodes 224 are configured to be selectively movable between an extended position, where the electrodes 224 extend away from a first end 216A of the assembly body 216, and a retracted position, where the electrodes 224 are positioned substantially within the assembly body 216. In one embodiment, the electrodes 224 are selectively movable between the extended position and the retracted position with the tip adjuster 226. In such embodiment, the tip adjuster 226 can be a slide mechanism that selectively moves the electrodes 224 between the extended position and the retracted position. Alternatively, the tip adjuster 226 can have another suitable design and/or can selectively move the electrodes 224 between the extended position and the retracted position in another suitable manner.

During use of the lighter assembly 212, the electrodes 224 are moved to the extended position, such as via the tip adjuster 226, and an electrical arc 30 (illustrated in FIG. 1A) can be created between the pair of electrodes 224. In one embodiment, the electric circuit 225 is usable, such as via activation of the power control 228, to produce the electrical arc 30 between the electrodes 224 when the electrodes 224 are in the extended position. The high level of heat generated by the electrical arc 30 should be sufficient to provide the desired lighting source for lighting candles, candle wicks, grills, fireplaces, or other suitable items.

The electric circuit 225 can have any suitable design for purposes of producing the electrical arc 30 between the electrodes 224. In certain non-exclusive embodiments, the electric circuit 225 can use oscillators, resonant circuits or power inverters, step-up transformers, diode-capacitor voltage multipliers, etc. The electric circuit 225 can be configured to produce an alternating high-voltage discharge or a continuous direct current discharge. The electric circuit 225 can be powered by any suitable internal power source 231A (illustrated in phantom), such as one or more batteries, capacitors or super capacitors.

As shown in FIG. 2A, the tip adjuster 226 and the power control 228, such as an on/off control button, can be positioned near a second end 216B of the assembly body 216. With such design, the user can hold the assembly body 216 of the lighter assembly 212 near the second end 216B while operating the lighter assembly 212, such as through operation of the tip adjuster 226 and/or the power control 228, and thus be able to avoid the electrical arc 30 that is produced between the electrodes 224 as they extend away from the first end 216A of the assembly body 216.

The recharging system 220 is configured for selectively recharging the lighter assembly 212. More particularly, in one embodiment, the recharging system 220 is configured for selectively recharging the internal power source 231A that is configured to provide the necessary power to the lighting system 218. The design of the recharging system 220 can be varied. In certain embodiments, the recharging system 220 can include a recharging port 232, a recharging cable 233 that can be selectively coupled to a remote power source 231B (illustrated as a box), and a charge indicator 234. The recharging port 232, the recharging cable 233 and the charge indicator 234 can be substantially similar to what has been illustrated and described in relation to previous embodiments. Accordingly, the design and operation of the recharging system 220, and the components thereof, will not again be described in detail.

Alternatively, the recharging system 220 can have another suitable design having more components or fewer components than what is shown in FIG. 2A.

As illustrated in FIG. 2A, the candle maintenance device 214 is coupled to an outer surface 216S of the assembly body 216. It is appreciated that the candle maintenance device 214 can be coupled to the outer surface 216S of the assembly body 216 in any suitable manner. For example, in one non-exclusive embodiment, the candle maintenance device 214 is designed, sized and shaped to conform to the outer surface 216S of the assembly body 216 in a form-fitting manner. Stated in another manner, the candle maintenance device 214 can be form-fit to and/or nested around the outer surface 216S of the assembly body 216. In such embodiment, the candle maintenance device 214 can then effectively click into place directly adjacent to the outer surface 216S of the assembly body 216 with a snap effect.

Additionally, or in the alternative, the candle maintenance device 214 can be selectively coupled to the outer surface 216S of the assembly body 216 with a magnet assembly 250 (illustrated in phantom in FIG. 2C). More particularly, in such embodiments, the magnet assembly 250 can include one or more magnets 251 (illustrated in phantom in FIG. 2C) that are configured to removably, magnetically couple the candle maintenance device 214 to the outer surface 216S of the assembly body 216. For example, in one such embodiment, the magnet assembly 250 can include at least one body magnet 251B (two are illustrated in phantom in FIG. 2C) that is coupled to the assembly body 216 and/or at least one device magnet 251D (two are illustrated in phantom in FIG. 2C) that is coupled to the candle maintenance device 214. In such embodiment, the at least one body magnet 251B can be positioned to magnetically engage the at least one device magnet 251D.

It is appreciated that the at least one body magnet 251B can be positioned in any suitable manner along and/or about the assembly body 216, with such positioning being potentially based on one or more of internal engineering designs for the assembly body 216, to inhibit any potential electrical interference, etc. For example, each of the at least one body magnet 251B can be positioned in a recess that is formed into the outer surface 216S of the assembly body 216. Similarly, it is further appreciated that the at least one device magnet 251D can be positioned in any suitable manner along and/or about a device body 235 of the candle maintenance device 214 so as to magnetically engage the at least one body magnet 251B. For example, each of the at least one device magnet 251D can be positioned in a recess that is formed into the device body 235.

In certain alternative embodiments, instead of both the assembly body 216 including at least one body magnet 251B and the device body 235 including at least one device magnet 251D, one of the assembly body 216 and the device body 235 can be formed of a magnetic material. More specifically, in one such embodiment, the assembly body 216 can include at least one body magnet 251B and the device body 235 can be formed from a magnetic material that is magnetically attracted to the at least one body magnet 251B. In another such embodiment, the device body 235 can include at least one device magnet 251D and the assembly body 216 can be formed from a magnetic material that is magnetically attracted to the at least one device magnet 251D.

Still alternatively, the candle maintenance device 214 can be removably coupled to the assembly body 216 of the lighting assembly 212 in another suitable manner, such as via one or more clips, snaps, or other suitable coupling members.

FIG. 2B is another simplified perspective view illustration of the combination device 210 illustrated in FIG. 2A. In particular, FIG. 2B provides an alternative perspective view of the lighting system 212 and the candle maintenance device 214 of the combination device 210.

FIG. 2C is a simplified partially exploded view illustration of the combination device 210 illustrated in FIG. 2A. More particularly, FIG. 2C illustrates the candle maintenance device 214 spaced apart from the assembly body 216 of the lighting assembly 212, after the candle maintenance device 214 has been uncoupled from the assembly body 216. At such time, the candle maintenance device 214 can be easily utilized to perform any desired candle maintenance without any consequences from potential usage that may occur if the candle maintenance device 214 is still coupled to the assembly body 216

With the candle maintenance device 214 being shown spaced apart from the lighting assembly 212 it is appreciated that various details of the candle maintenance device 214 are now visible that could not clearly be seen in FIGS. 2A and 2B, with the candle maintenance device 214 being coupled to the assembly body 216 of the lighting assembly 212. The candle maintenance device 214 can include various features so as to provide various functions of candle maintenance. In particular, similar to previous embodiments, in certain embodiments, the candle maintenance device 214 includes a device body 235 that incorporates each of a wick lifter 236, a wick trimmer 238, and a flame snuffer 240 within the design of the device body 235.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 2C, the wick lifter 236 and the wick trimmer 238 can be incorporated together at a first device end 242 of the candle maintenance device 214, and the flame snuffer 240 can be formed at a second device end 244 of the candle maintenance device 214. Alternatively, the wick lifter 236, the wick trimmer 238 and/or the flame snuffer 240 can be positioned in any other suitable manner within the candle maintenance device 214.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2C, the wick lifter 236 can be provided in the form of a rounded device tip 246 that can be formed at the first device end 242, and the wick trimmer 238 can be provided in the form of a substantially slot-shaped aperture 245 (also sometimes referred to simply as an “aperture”) that is formed into the device body 235 at or near the first device end 242 and/or substantially adjacent to the device tip 246. In one embodiment, the device tip 246 of the first device end 242 of the device body 235 can have a somewhat rounded shape with the slot-shaped aperture 245 being formed at or near the first device end 242 substantially perpendicular to a length of the device body 235. Alternatively, the device tip 246, the first device end 242 and/or the aperture 245 can have another suitable design and/or the aperture 245 can be positioned in another suitable manner. For example, in another embodiment, the aperture 245 can be other than substantially slot-shaped. Still alternatively, in other embodiments, the wick lifter 236 and/or the wick trimmer 238 can have a closed-shaped design.

During use of the candle maintenance device 214, the wick lifter 236, in the form of the device tip 246 that is formed at the first device end 242, can be inserted into wax around the candle wick such that the wick lifter 236 is able to lift the candle wick from within the wax into a more upright position. The wick lifter 236 can be further utilized to remove any excess wax from around the candle wick before each lighting of the candle wick.

In certain embodiments, the wick trimmer 238 is formed via interior edges 248 of the substantially slot-shaped aperture 245. More specifically, in one embodiment, the interior edges 248 of the slot-shaped aperture 245 provide a sharpened surface with which to trim the candle wick as desired. During use, the candle maintenance device 214 is positioned relative to the candle wick such that the candle wick is positioned at least partially within the aperture 245. The candle maintenance device 214 is then twisted such that one or more of the interior edges 248 of the wick trimmer 238 come into contact with the candle wick. With the continued twisting and pulling of the candle maintenance device 214, the contact of the interior edges 248 with the candle wick creates tension in the candle wick, and the sharpened interior edges 248 are then able to trim the candle wick to a desired length.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2C, the flame snuffer 240 is formed at the second device end 244 of the candle maintenance device 214. In one embodiment, the flame snuffer 240 is substantially cone-shaped so as to extinguish the flame in a smoke-free manner. More particularly, the flame snuffer 240 can be selectively positioned over the flame, thus inhibiting air from getting to the flame so that the flame can be extinguished in a smoke-free manner. Alternatively, the flame snuffer 240 can have another suitable design and/or can work in another suitable manner.

As with the assembly body 216 of the lighter assembly 212, the candle maintenance device 214 can be formed from any suitable materials. In various embodiments, the candle maintenance device 214 can be formed from non-plastic materials so as to inhibit many potential pollution issues that occur with lighters formed from plastic materials. For example, in some non-exclusive alternative such embodiments, the candle maintenance device 214 can be formed from sustainable metal materials such as a molded steel or brass material. Alternatively, the candle maintenance device 214 can be formed from other suitable, non-plastic, materials. Still alternatively, the candle maintenance device 214 can be formed from recycled plastics, bio-plastics or other materials that would also inhibit any adverse impacts on the environment.

FIG. 2D is another simplified partially exploded view illustration of the combination device 210 illustrated in FIG. 2A. In particular, FIG. 2D illustrates another perspective view of the combination device 210, with the candle maintenance device 214 again being shown spaced apart from the lighting assembly 212, after the candle maintenance device 214 has been removed and/or uncoupled from the assembly body 216 of the lighting assembly 212.

FIG. 3A is a simplified perspective view illustration of still another embodiment of the combination device 310. As illustrated in FIG. 3A, the combination device 310 is somewhat similar to what has been illustrated and described in relation to the previous embodiments. For example, as shown, the combination device 310 again includes a lighter assembly 312, such as a rechargeable lighter assembly, having an assembly body 316, and a lighting system 318 that is coupled to the assembly body 316; and a candle maintenance device 314 that is selectively and/or removably coupled to the lighter assembly 312, which are somewhat similar to previous embodiments. In certain embodiments, the lighter assembly 312 can also include a recharging system 320 for selectively recharging the lighter assembly 312. However, in this embodiment, the overall design of the lighter assembly 312, and the design of the recharging system 320 are somewhat different than in the previous embodiments.

As illustrated in FIG. 3A, in this embodiment, the assembly body 316 again includes an ergonomically pleasing shape that is both aesthetically pleasing and easy to hold and operate for the user, the overall shape of the assembly body 216 being substantially similar to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2A. It is further appreciated that the combination device 310 as a whole can also have a similar ergonomically pleasing shape, such as when the candle maintenance device 314 is coupled to the assembly body 316 of the lighter assembly 312. Alternatively, the assembly body 316 and/or the combination device 310 can have another suitable shape.

However, in this embodiment, the lighting assembly 312 further includes a body cap 316C that is removably coupled to the remainder of the assembly body 316. Stated in another manner, in this embodiment, the assembly body 316 includes a removable body cap 316C. More particularly, as shown, the body cap 316C encompasses the rounded portion that forms a second end 316B of the assembly body 316.

The assembly body 316 can again be formed from any suitable materials. In various embodiments, the assembly body 316 can be formed from non-plastic materials so as to inhibit many potential pollution issues that occur with lighters formed from plastic materials. For example, in some non-exclusive alternative such embodiments, the assembly body 316 can be formed from sustainable metal materials such as a molded steel or brass material. Alternatively, the assembly body 316 can be formed from other suitable, non-plastic, materials. Still alternatively, the assembly body 316 can be formed from recycled plastics, bio-plastics or other materials that would also inhibit any adverse impacts on the environment.

The lighting system 318 is configured to provide a lighting source for lighting candles, candle wicks, grills, fireplaces, or other suitable items. In certain embodiments, the lighting system 318 can employ an arc lighting system for providing the desired lighting source. In one embodiment, the lighting system 318 includes a pair of electrodes 324 (illustrated in FIG. 3C), an electric circuit 325 (illustrated in phantom), an electrode tip adjuster 326 (also sometimes referred to herein simply as a “tip adjuster”), and a power control 328. Alternatively, the lighting system 318 can have another suitable design and/or can include more components or fewer components than those illustrated and described herein.

The electrodes 324 are configured to be selectively movable between an extended position, where the electrodes 324 extend away from a first end 316A of the assembly body 316, and a retracted position, where the electrodes 324 are positioned substantially within the assembly body 316. In one embodiment, the electrodes 324 are selectively movable between the extended position and the retracted position with the tip adjuster 326. In such embodiment, the tip adjuster 326 can be a slide mechanism that selectively moves the electrodes 324 between the extended position and the retracted position. Alternatively, the tip adjuster 326 can have another suitable design and/or can selectively move the electrodes 324 between the extended position and the retracted position in another suitable manner.

During use of the lighter assembly 312, the electrodes 324 are moved to the extended position, such as via the tip adjuster 326, and an electrical arc 30 (illustrated in FIG. 1A) can be created between the pair of electrodes 324. In one embodiment, the electric circuit 325 is usable, such as via activation of the power control 328, to produce the electrical arc 30 between the electrodes 324 when the electrodes 324 are in the extended position. The high level of heat generated by the electrical arc 30 should be sufficient to provide the desired lighting source for lighting candles, candle wicks, grills, fireplaces, or other suitable items.

The electric circuit 325 can have any suitable design for purposes of producing the electrical arc 30 between the electrodes 324. In certain non-exclusive embodiments, the electric circuit 325 can use oscillators, resonant circuits or power inverters, step-up transformers, diode-capacitor voltage multipliers, etc. The electric circuit 325 can be configured to produce an alternating high-voltage discharge or a continuous direct current discharge. The electric circuit 325 can be powered by any suitable internal power source 331A (illustrated in phantom), such as one or more batteries, capacitors or super capacitors.

As shown in FIG. 3A, the tip adjuster 326 and the power control 328, such as an on/off control button, can be positioned near the second end 3168 of the assembly body 316. With such design, the user can hold the assembly body 316 of the lighter assembly 312 near the second end 3168 while operating the lighter assembly 312, such as through operation of the tip adjuster 326 and/or the power control 328, and thus be able to avoid the electrical arc 30 that is produced between the electrodes 324 as they extend away from the first end 316A of the assembly body 316.

The recharging system 320 is configured for selectively recharging the lighter assembly 312. More particularly, in one embodiment, the recharging system 320 is configured for selectively recharging the internal power source 331A that is configured to provide the necessary power to the lighting system 318. The design of the recharging system 320 can be varied. In this embodiment, the recharging system 320 has a different design than in the previous embodiments. In particular, as shown in FIG. 3A, the recharging system 320 can include (i) a detachable charging unit 331C (illustrated in phantom) that is selectively electrically coupled to the internal power source 331A and is coupled to and/or embedded within the body cap 316C of the assembly body 316; and (ii) a charge indicator 334. In one embodiment, the detachable charging unit 331C can be selectively uncoupled from the internal power source 331A, via removal of the body cap 316C from the remainder of the assembly body 316, and can be selectively coupled to a remote power source 331B (illustrated as a box) for purposes of recharging the detachable charging unit 331C.

The detachable charging unit 331C can have any suitable design. In one non-exclusive embodiment, the detachable charging unit 331C can be a universal micro-USB to USB recharging port that can be selectively electrically coupled to the internal power source 331A within the assembly body 316 and/or to the remote power source 331B. Once the detachable charging unit 331C has been recharged, it can again be selectively electrically coupled to the internal power source 331A, via coupling of the body cap 316C to the remainder of the assembly body 316, to again provide necessary charge and/or power to the internal power source 331A so that the internal power source 331A can provide the necessary power for the lighting system 312. Alternatively, the detachable charging unit 331C can have another suitable design.

The charge indicator 334 can again be used to indicate the level of charge that exists at any given time within the internal power source 331A. The charge indicator 334 can have any suitable design. For example, in one embodiment, the charge indicator 334 can include an LED light that indicates the level of charge within the internal power source 331A. Alternatively, the charge indicator 334 can have another suitable design.

As illustrated in FIG. 3A, the candle maintenance device 314 is coupled to an outer surface 316S of the assembly body 316. It is appreciated that the candle maintenance device 314 can be coupled to the outer surface 316S of the assembly body 316 in any suitable manner. For example, in one non-exclusive embodiment, the candle maintenance device 314 is designed, sized and shaped to conform to the outer surface 316S of the assembly body 316 in a form-fitting manner. Stated in another manner, the candle maintenance device 314 can be form-fit to and/or nested around the outer surface 316S of the assembly body 316. In such embodiment, the candle maintenance device 314 can then effectively click into place directly adjacent to the outer surface 316S of the assembly body 316 with a snap effect.

Additionally, or in the alternative, the candle maintenance device 314 can be selectively coupled to the outer surface 316S of the assembly body 316 with a magnet assembly 350 (illustrated in phantom in FIG. 3C). More particularly, in such embodiments, the magnet assembly 350 can include one or more magnets 351 (illustrated in phantom in FIG. 3C) that are configured to removably, magnetically couple the candle maintenance device 314 to the outer surface 316S of the assembly body 316. For example, in one such embodiment, the magnet assembly 350 can include at least one body magnet 351B (two are illustrated in phantom in FIG. 3C) that is coupled to the assembly body 316 and/or at least one device magnet 351D (two are illustrated in phantom in FIG. 3C) that is coupled to the candle maintenance device 314. In such embodiment, the at least one body magnet 351B can be positioned to magnetically engage the at least one device magnet 351D.

It is appreciated that the at least one body magnet 351B can be positioned in any suitable manner along and/or about the assembly body 316, with such positioning being potentially based on one or more of internal engineering designs for the assembly body 316, to inhibit any potential electrical interference, etc. For example, each of the at least one body magnet 351B can be positioned in a recess that is formed into the outer surface 316S of the assembly body 316. Similarly, it is further appreciated that the at least one device magnet 351D can be positioned in any suitable manner along and/or about a device body 335 of the candle maintenance device 314 so as to magnetically engage the at least one body magnet 351B. For example, each of the at least one device magnet 351D can be positioned in a recess that is formed into the device body 335.

In certain alternative embodiments, instead of both the assembly body 316 including at least one body magnet 351B and the device body 335 including at least one device magnet 351D, one of the assembly body 316 and the device body 335 can be formed of a magnetic material. More specifically, in one such embodiment, the assembly body 316 can include at least one body magnet 351B and the device body 335 can be formed from a magnetic material that is magnetically attracted to the at least one body magnet 351B. In another such embodiment, the device body 335 can include at least one device magnet 351D and the assembly body 316 can be formed from a magnetic material that is magnetically attracted to the at least one device magnet 351D.

Still alternatively, the candle maintenance device 314 can be removably coupled to the assembly body 316 of the lighting assembly 312 in another suitable manner, such as via one or more clips, snaps, or other suitable coupling members.

FIG. 3B is another simplified perspective view illustration of the combination device 310 illustrated in FIG. 3A. In particular, FIG. 3B provides an alternative perspective view of the lighting system 312 and the candle maintenance device 314 of the combination device 310.

FIG. 3C is a simplified partially exploded view illustration of the combination device 310 illustrated in FIG. 3A. More particularly, FIG. 3C illustrates the candle maintenance device 314 spaced apart from the assembly body 316 of the lighting assembly 312, after the candle maintenance device 314 has been uncoupled from the assembly body 316. At such time, the candle maintenance device 314 can be easily utilized to perform any desired candle maintenance without any consequences from potential usage that may occur if the candle maintenance device 314 is still coupled to the assembly body 316

With the candle maintenance device 314 being shown spaced apart from the lighting assembly 312 it is appreciated that various details of the candle maintenance device 314 are now visible that could not clearly be seen in FIGS. 3A and 3B. The candle maintenance device 314 can include various features so as to provide various functions of candle maintenance. In particular, similar to previous embodiments, in certain embodiments, the candle maintenance device 314 includes a device body 335 that incorporates each of a wick lifter 336, a wick trimmer 338, and a flame snuffer 340 within the design of the device body 335.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3C, the wick lifter 336 and the wick trimmer 338 can be incorporated together at a first device end 342 of the candle maintenance device 314, and the flame snuffer 340 can be formed at a second device end 344 of the candle maintenance device 314. Alternatively, the wick lifter 336, the wick trimmer 338 and/or the flame snuffer 340 can be positioned in any other suitable manner within the candle maintenance device 314.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3C, the wick lifter 336 can be provided in the form of a rounded device tip 346 that can be formed at the first device end 342, and the wick trimmer 338 can be provided in the form of a substantially slot-shaped aperture 345 (also sometimes referred to simply as an “aperture”) that is formed into the device body 335 at or near the first device end 342 and/or substantially adjacent to the device tip 346. In one embodiment, the device tip 346 of the first device end 342 of the device body 335 can have a somewhat rounded shape with the slot-shaped aperture 345 being formed at or near the first device end 342 substantially perpendicular to a length of the device body 335. Alternatively, the device tip 346, the first device end 342 and/or the aperture 345 can have another suitable design and/or the aperture 345 can be positioned in another suitable manner. For example, in another embodiment, the device tip 346 can be squared off and the first device end 342 can be substantially rectangular-shaped. Still alternatively, the aperture 345 can be other than substantially slot-shaped, such as substantially U-shaped. Yet alternatively, in other embodiments, the wick lifter 336 and/or the wick trimmer 338 can have a closed-shaped design.

During use of the candle maintenance device 314, the wick lifter 336 in the form of the device tip 346 that is formed at the first device end 342, can be inserted into wax around the candle wick such that the wick lifter 336 is able to lift the candle wick from within the wax into a more upright position. The wick lifter 336 can be further utilized to remove any excess wax from around the candle wick before each lighting of the candle wick.

In certain embodiments, the wick trimmer 338 is formed via interior edges 348 of the substantially slot-shaped aperture 345. More specifically, in one embodiment, the interior edges 348 of the slot-shaped aperture 345 provide a sharpened surface with which to trim the candle wick as desired. During use, the candle maintenance device 314 is positioned relative to the candle wick such that the candle wick is positioned at least partially within the aperture 345. The candle maintenance device 314 is then twisted such that one or more of the interior edges 348 of the wick trimmer 338 come into contact with the candle wick. With the continued twisting and pulling of the candle maintenance device 314, the contact of the interior edges 348 with the candle wick creates tension in the candle wick, and the sharpened interior edges 348 are then able to trim the candle wick to a desired length.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3C, the flame snuffer 340 is formed at the second device end 344 of the candle maintenance device 314. In one embodiment, the flame snuffer 340 is substantially cone-shaped so as to extinguish the flame in a smoke-free manner. More particularly, the flame snuffer 340 can be selectively positioned over the flame, thus inhibiting air from getting to the flame so that the flame can be extinguished in a smoke-free manner. Alternatively, the flame snuffer 340 can have another suitable design or shape and/or can work in another suitable manner.

As with the assembly body 316 of the lighter assembly 312, the candle maintenance device 314 can be formed from any suitable materials. In various embodiments, the candle maintenance device 314 can be formed from non-plastic materials so as to inhibit many potential pollution issues that occur with lighters formed from plastic materials. For example, in some non-exclusive alternative such embodiments, the candle maintenance device 314 can be formed from sustainable metal materials such as a molded steel or brass material. Alternatively, the candle maintenance device 314 can be formed from other suitable, non-plastic, materials. Still alternatively, the candle maintenance device 314 can be formed from recycled plastics, bio-plastics or other materials that would also inhibit any adverse impacts on the environment.

FIG. 3D is another simplified partially exploded view illustration of the combination device 310 illustrated in FIG. 3A. In particular, FIG. 3D illustrates another perspective view of the combination device 310, with the candle maintenance device 314 again being shown spaced apart from the lighting assembly 312, after the candle maintenance device 314 has been removed and/or uncoupled from the assembly body 316 of the lighting assembly 312.

FIG. 3D further illustrates the body cap 316C having been removed from the remainder of the assembly body 316. With the body cap 316C having been removed, the detachable charging unit 331C can now be selectively coupled to the remote power source 331B to recharge the detachable charging unit 331C. Subsequently, the detachable charging unit 331C can be electrically coupled to the internal power source 331A, via reconnection of the body cap 316C back onto the assembly body 316, so that power is again provided through the internal power source 331A and to the lighting system 312, as desired.

It is understood that although a number of different embodiments of the combination device 10 including the lighter assembly 12 and the candle maintenance device 14 have been illustrated and described herein, one or more features of any one embodiment can be combined with one or more features of one or more of the other embodiments, provided that such combination satisfies the intent of the present invention.

While a number of exemplary aspects and embodiments of the combination device 10 have been discussed above, those of skill in the art will recognize certain modifications, permutations, additions and sub-combinations thereof. It is therefore intended that the following appended claims and claims hereafter introduced are interpreted to include all such modifications, permutations, additions and sub-combinations as are within their true spirit and scope.

COMBINATION DEVICE WITH RECHARGEABLE LIGHTER ASSEMBLY AND CANDLE MAINTENANCE DEVICE

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