The present invention relates to a flame simulating assembly adapted for displaying an image of flames.
Various types of flame simulating assemblies are known. Often, a flame simulating assembly is designed to be included in an electric fireplace, to simulate a fire in a real fireplace. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,965,707 (Butterfield) discloses a simulated flame system for an electric fireplace in which a light source is combined with billowing ribbons to simulate flames. The effect resulting tends to resemble flames from a coal fuel source more than flames from a wood fuel source. The flames for burning wooden logs tend to be more active and extend higher above the fuel source.
Known flame simulating assemblies have certain advantages over actual fireplaces, in which a combustible fuel (usually wood or coal, or natural gas) can be burned. Among other things, electric flame simulating assemblies can be used in an interior room (such as in a condominium building or a hotel) from which access to a chimney (i.e., for an actual fireplace) would be difficult. Also, and in particular, known flame simulating assemblies usually occupy less space than actual fireplaces.
The relatively narrow configurations of known flame simulating assemblies is one of their advantages, as noted above. However, known flame simulating assemblies typically have somewhat less depth (i.e., distance from front to back) than ordinary fireplaces. Due to this, the overall effect presented by these flame simulating assemblies is often not as realistic as may be desirable. This is because the relatively smaller depth of the typical flame simulating assembly, as compared to the usual depth of a real fireplace, tends to undermine the overall simulation effect sought with the typical flame simulating assembly.
There is therefore a need for an improved flame simulating assembly adapted for displaying an image of flames.
In a broad aspect of the present invention, there is provided a flame simulating assembly for providing one or more images of flames. The flame simulating assembly includes one or more light sources for producing the image of flames and a screen having a front surface which is positioned in a path of light from the light source. The screen is adapted for transmission of the image of flames through the screen. The flame simulating assembly also includes one or more simulated interior fireplace walls positioned behind the screen, a first simulated fuel bed positioned in front of the screen, and a second simulated fuel bed positioned behind the screen and at least partially viewable through the screen. The screen is adapted to permit observation of at least part of the simulated interior fireplace wall.
In one of its aspects, the front surface of the screen includes one or more observation regions through which at least part of the simulated interior fireplace wall is observable.
In another aspect, the front surface of the screen includes a viewing region through which the image of flames is transmittable.
In yet another aspect, the viewing region is partially reflective, for providing a virtual image of at least part of the first simulated fuel bed.
In another of its aspects, at least a preselected portion of the second simulated fuel bed is positioned relative to the virtual image so that the second simulated fuel bed appears to be part of the first simulated fuel bed.
In another aspect, the simulated interior fireplace wall is a back wall and the flame simulating assembly additionally includes side walls extending from the back wall beyond the front surface of the screen.
In yet another aspect, the invention additionally includes one or more background light sources for providing light to at least partially illuminate the simulated interior fireplace wall.
In another of its aspects, the invention additionally includes a transition region disposed between the observation region and the viewing region, and the simulated interior fireplace wall is at least partially observable through the transition region. Also, the image of flames is at least partially transmittable through the transition region.
In another of its aspects, the invention provides a flame simulating assembly for providing one or more image of flames. The flame simulating assembly includes one or more light sources for producing one or more images of flames and a screen including a front surface and positioned in a path of light from the light source. The screen is adapted for transmission of the image of flames through the screen. The flame simulating assembly also includes one or more simulated interior fireplace walls positioned behind the screen and one or more background light sources to at least partially illuminate the simulated interior fireplace wall. The front surface of the screen includes one or more observation regions, the observation region being adapted to permit observation of at least part of the simulated interior fireplace wall.
In yet another of its aspects, the invention additionally includes a first simulated fuel bed positioned in front of the screen and a second simulated fuel bed positioned behind the screen.
In another aspect, the light provided by the background light source flickers so that the light simulates flickering light provided by a fire.
In another aspect, the invention provides a flame simulating assembly for providing one or more image of flames. The flame simulating assembly includes a housing having a back wall with an exposed surface and defining a cavity open at a front end of the housing, and one or more light sources for producing the image of flames. The flame simulating assembly also includes a screen disposed in the cavity in front of the back wall and positioned in a path of light from the light source. The screen is adapted for transmission of the image of flames therethrough. In addition, the flame simulating assembly includes a first simulated fuel bed positioned in front of the screen and adjacent to a front surface of the screen, and a second simulated fuel bed positioned behind the screen and at least partially viewable through the screen. The screen includes a top edge spaced apart from a roof portion of the housing by at least one preselected distance to define an upper opening through which at least part of the exposed surface of the back wall is observable.
In yet another of its aspects, the invention provides a flame simulating assembly for providing one or more images of flames. The flame simulating assembly includes a housing having a back wall with an exposed surface and defining a cavity open at a front end of the housing, and one or more light sources for producing the image of flames. The flame simulating assembly also includes a screen disposed in the cavity in front of the back wall and positioned in a path of light from the light source. The screen is adapted for transmission of the image of flames therethrough. The flame simulating assembly additionally includes a simulated fuel bed positioned in front of the screen and adjacent to the front surface. The screen has a top edge spaced apart from a roof portion of the housing by at least one preselected distance to define an upper opening through which at least part of the exposed surface of the back wall is observable. Also, the flame simulating assembly includes one or more background light sources for at least partially illuminating part of the exposed surface of the back wall.
In another of its aspects, the invention provides a flame simulating assembly for providing one or more images of flames. The flame simulating assembly includes one or more light sources for producing the image of flames and a screen with a front surface and positioned in a path of light from the light source. The screen is adapted for transmission of the image of flames therethrough. The flame simulating assembly additionally includes one or more simulated interior fireplace walls positioned behind the screen. The screen is adapted to permit observation of at least part of the simulated interior fireplace wall. Also, the flame simulating assembly includes a simulated fuel bed with at least one first portion positioned adjacent to the front surface of the screen, and at least one second portion positioned behind the screen. The second portion is at least partially viewable through the screen.
The invention will be better understood with reference to the drawings, in which:
Reference is first made to
For clarity, an image of flames 11 is illustrated in
As can be seen in
Preferably, the viewing region 28 is partially reflective. Because of this, the simulated fuel bed 14 is reflected in the viewing region 28 to an extent sufficient to provide an illusion of depth, as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,642,580. U.S. Pat. No. 5,642,580 is hereby incorporated herein by reference. However, the images of flames 11 are also transmittable through the partially reflective viewing region 28. As can be seen in
In the preferred embodiment, the front surface 20 of the screen 18 also includes a transition region 32 disposed between the viewing region 28 and the observation region 30. Preferably, the images of flames 11 are at least partially transmittable through the transition region 32, and the simulated interior fireplace wall 26 is also at least partially observable through the transition region 32. The transition region 32 is for providing a relatively gradual transition from the viewing region 28 to the observation region 30, in order to provide a more realistic overall simulation effect. Preferably, if the viewing region 28 is partially reflective, then the transition region 32 is also partially reflective, however, to a somewhat lesser extent. To achieve this, the transition region 32 is preferably less silvered relative to the viewing region 28, as will be described.
In the preferred embodiment, the screen 18 additionally includes a back surface 34 positioned opposite to the front surface 20. Preferably, the back surface 34 is adapted to diffuse light transmitted through the screen 18 to prevent an observer (not shown) from observing the light source 16, or other internal components of the flame simulating assembly 10. Such a back surface 34 is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,642,580. In the preferred embodiment of the flame simulating assembly 10, however, the back surface 34 of the screen 18 includes a diffusing portion 33 which is located substantially opposite to the viewing region 28 and the transition region 32 (
In the preferred embodiment, the diffusing portion 33 is divided into a first part 37, located opposite to the viewing region 28, and a second part 39, located opposite to the transition region 32. Preferably, the extent to which light is diffused by the second part 39 is somewhat less than the extent to which light is diffused by the first part 37. Because of this, the simulated interior fireplace wall 26 is at least partially observable through the transition region 32.
Preferably, the screen 18 is glass, plastic, or another other suitable material. In the preferred embodiment, the screen 18 is lightly silvered so that it is partially reflective, to provide a two-way mirror in the viewing region 28. The transition region 32 is preferably more lightly silvered. Within the transition region 32, the extent of reflective material on the front surface 20 varies from a relatively greater amount closer to the viewing region 28 to a relatively lesser amount closer to the observation region 30. This variation within the transition region 32 is for providing a gradual decrease in reflective material, from the viewing region 28 to the observation region 30, to enhance the simulation effect provided by the flame simulating assembly 10. The preferred method of producing the viewing region 28, the observation region 30, and the transition region 32 will be described.
Alternatively, however, the screen 18 could be suitably tinted or otherwise treated in any suitable manner to provide the described simulation effect. For example, the screen could be tinted (i.e., without silvering on the front surface 20) to provide the viewing region 28 and the transition region 32, so that the viewing region 28 is darker than the transition region 32. The observation region 30 could also be tinted or screened to achieve any desired effects, but still permitting relatively unobstructed observation therethrough.
An upper edge 29 of the viewing region 28 (which is also a lower edge 29 of the transition region 32), is shown in
It is also preferred that the simulated interior fireplace wall 26 has a pattern 36 simulating firebrick thereon (
Preferably, the flame simulating assembly 10 also includes a flame effect element 46, for configuring light from the light source 16 to form the image of flames 11. The flame effect element 46 is positioned in the path of light 19 from the light source 16 between the light source 16 and the screen 18. The flame effect element 46 can include one or more apertures (not shown) passing through the apertures forming into the image of flames 11 (
In the preferred embodiment, the flame simulating assembly 10 also includes a flicker element 44 for causing light from the light source 16 to fluctuate, thereby enhancing the overall simulation effect. The flicker element 44 is positioned in the path of light 19 from the light source 16 between the light source 16 and the screen 18. Preferably, the flicker element 44 is similar to the flicker elements described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,642,580 and 6,363,636.
In the preferred embodiment, the flame simulating assembly 10 includes a housing 48 with a substantially vertical back wall 50, a top wall 52, a bottom wall 54, and at least two side walls 56, 58 extending between the top and bottom walls 52, 54, defining a cavity 60 therein. The cavity 60 has an opening 62 at a front end 12 of the housing 48, so that the cavity 60 is substantially viewable from the front by the observer. The simulated interior wall 26 is preferably proximal to the back wall 50. Preferably, the simulated fuel bed 14 is disposed in the cavity 60 proximal to the opening 62. As shown in
As can be seen in
In the preferred embodiment, the interior element 26 has a pattern 36 simulating firebrick in the firebox of a real fireplace thereon. Preferably, the simulated interior fireplace sidewalls 38, 40 also have patterns 42 simulating firebrick thereon. In the preferred embodiment, the patterns 42 on the simulated interior fireplace sidewalls 38, 40 are positioned to be aligned with the pattern 36 on the interior element 26.
Although the pattern 36 and the patterns 42 are simulated firebrick (
In use, the flicker element 44 causes light from the light source 16 to fluctuate upon reflection thereof by the flicker element 44. In the preferred embodiment, light from the light source 16 reflected by the flicker element 44 and thereby caused to fluctuate, or flicker, is configured by the flame effect element 46 to form one or more images of flames 11 transmitted through the screen 18. The images of flames 11 appear to be rising from the simulated fuel bed 14, and the observer also can simultaneously observe the simulated interior fireplace wall 26. The transition region 32 provides a relatively gradual transition between the viewing region 28 and the observation region 30, to enhance the simulation effect.
Referring to
If preferred, the flame simulating assembly 10 optionally includes a shield 64, for obstructing light from the light source 16 which is directed to the vicinity of the observation region 30 or for concealing certain components. The shield 64 is preferably positioned behind the screen 18 and below the transition region 32 and beside or below the transition region 32. As can be seen in FIG. 10, an observer's eye 66 observing the flame simulating assembly 10 is typically positioned so that the observer cannot observe the flame effect element 46 or other components positioned behind the screen 18 directly. However, it is possible that an observer (not shown) could be positioned so as to view some of the internal components (such as the flicker element 44, or the flame effect element 46) directly, or light from the light source 16 directed to the observation region 30 may distract the observer. In either or both of these circumstances, it may be advantageous to include the shield 64 in the flame simulating assembly 10. A preferred embodiment of the shield 64 is shown in
However, it has been found that, if the components are positioned appropriately relative to each other and relative to the observation region 30 and the transition region 32, the shield 64 is generally not necessary. As can be seen in
Additional embodiments of the invention are shown in
An alternative embodiment 110 of the flame simulating assembly is shown in
Because it does not include a simulated fuel bed, the flame simulating assembly 110 requires relatively less materials, and would be relatively less costly to construct. The user could use any materials chosen by the user as a simulated fuel bed. For example, real wooden logs (with or without a grate) could be used.
Although the flame simulating assembly 110 is adapted for use with a separate simulated fuel bed, the flame simulating assembly 110 also could be used without a simulated fuel bed, if the user so chose.
In the flame simulating assembly 110, the simulated interior fireplace wall 26 is preferably mounted on or positioned adjacent to the back wall 50. Also, the flame simulating assembly 110 preferably includes two simulated interior fireplace sidewalls 38, 40. Each of the simulated interior fireplace sidewalls 38, 40 extends from the simulated interior fireplace wall 26 forwardly beyond the front surface 20 of the screen 18. The simulated interior fireplace wall 26 preferably includes the pattern 36 simulating firebrick thereon. Preferably, the simulated interior fireplace sidewalls 38, 40 also have patterns 42 simulating firebrick thereon. It is preferred that the patterns 42 on the simulated interior fireplace sidewalls 38, 40 are positioned to be aligned with the pattern 36 on the back wall 26.
In another alternative embodiment 210 of the flame simulating assembly of the invention, as can be seen in
The flicker element 244 is positioned in a path of light 219 between the light source 16 and the screen 18. Similarly, the flame effect element 246 is positioned in the path of light 219 between the light source 16 and the screen 18. The path of light 219 is schematically represented by arrows 213, 215, and 217 (
The screen 18 in the flame simulating assembly 210 includes the viewing region 28, the observation region 30, and the transition region 32. The flicker element 244 causes light from the light source 16 to fluctuate upon reflection thereof by the flicker element 44. Light from the light source 16 which is reflected by the flicker element 44 and thereby caused to fluctuate, or flicker, is configured by the flame effect element 246 to form one or more images of flames 11 transmitted through the screen 18. The images of flames 11 appear to be rising from the simulated fuel bed 14, and the observer also can simultaneously observe the simulated interior fireplace wall 226. The transition region 32 provides a relatively gradual transition between the viewing region 28 and the observation region 30, to enhance the simulation effect. The positioning of the flicker element 244 substantially underneath the simulated fuel bed 14, and the positioning of the at least partially reflective flame effect element 246 proximal to, or on the back wall 50, results in an enhanced simulation effect.
Referring to
If preferred, the flame simulating assembly 210 optionally includes a shield 264, for obstructing light from the light source 16 which is directed to the vicinity of the observation region 30 or for concealing certain components. The shield 264 is preferably positioned behind the screen 18 and beside or below the transition region 32. As can be seen in
However, it has been found that, if the components are positioned appropriately relative to each other and relative to the observation region 30 and the transition region 32, the shield 264 is generally not necessary. As can be seen in
In
An alternative embodiment 318 of a screen is shown in
As can be seen in
As can be seen in
Optionally, a shield 374 (shown in
However, it has been found that, if the internal components are positioned appropriately relative to each other and relative to the transition region 332 and the top edge 370, the shield 374 is generally not necessary. The flame effect element 346 and the flicker element 344 are preferably not positioned where the ordinarily located observer would be able to observe these components directly through the transition region 332 or the upper opening 372.
Preferably, the screen 318 includes a viewing region 328 and a transition region 332. In the preferred embodiment, the viewing region 328 is partially reflective, although the images of flames 11 are also transmittable through the viewing region 328. Also, the screen 318 preferably includes a transition region 332 extending from the viewing region 328 to the top edge 370. The transition region 332 is preferably lightly silvered (and therefore also partially reflective), so that the simulated interior fireplace wall 326 is at least partially viewable through the transition region 332. A back surface 334 of the screen 318 diffuses light from the light source 16, also to enhance the overall simulation effect. Also, however, the images of flames 11 are partially observable through the transition region 332.
Alternatively, the viewing region 332 is translucent. For example, the screen 318 could be suitably tinted glass or plastic (or other suitable material) through which the image of flames 11 is transmittable. The transition region 332 also could be suitably tinted, to enhance the overall simulation effect.
Another alternative embodiment of a flame simulating assembly 410 of the invention, shown in
The flicker element 444 is positioned in a path of light 419 between the light source 16 and the screen 318. Also, the flame effect element 446 is positioned in the path of light 419 between the light source 16 and the screen 318. The path of light 419 is schematically represented by arrows 413, 415, and 417 (
The positioning of the flicker element 444 substantially underneath the simulated fuel bed 14, and the positioning of the flame effect element 446 proximal to or on the back wall 50, results in an enhanced simulation effect. Preferably, the flame simulating assembly 410 includes a shield 464 for obstructing light from the light source directed above the screen 318.
The translucent portion 28 and the transition portion 32 on the front surface 12 of the screen 18 are preferably partially reflective, and are preferably created as follows. As shown in
The path of the vaporized metal sprayed from the source 180 onto the front surface 20 is schematically shown by arrows C and D in
Preferably, the screen 18, 118 comprises glass. Alternatively, a suitable polycarbonate (such as plexiglas) or a suitable acrylic material can be used.
The vaporized metal is preferably produced by passing a relatively high electric current through a suitably prepared metal, such as aluminium. As is known in the art, the high current vaporizes the metal, i.e., changes the metal so that it is in a gaseous state. The vaporized metal can then be sprayed onto a surface which is at a lower temperature (e.g., the surface 20, at room temperature), causing the rapid “condensation” (i.e., solidification) of the vaporized metal on the cooler surface.
Alternatively, some or all of the viewing region 28 can be formed using silvered film, attached to the front surface by any suitable means. For example, where the viewing region includes silvered film, the transition region could be formed by spraying suitable materials onto the front surface. Alternatively, both the viewing region 28 and the transition region 32 could be formed using silvered film.
Another alternative embodiment of a flame simulating assembly 510 is disclosed in
Preferably, the front surface 520 of the screen 518 includes a viewing region 528 through which the image of flames 11 is transmittable. It is also preferred that the viewing region 528 is partially reflective, for providing a virtual image 533 of at least part of the first simulated fuel bed 514 (
As can be seen in
It is also preferred that the front surface 520 of the screen 518 additionally includes a transition region 532 disposed between the viewing region 528 and the observation region 530. Preferably, the image of flames 11 is at least partially transmittable through the transition region 532, and the simulated interior fireplace wall 526 and the second simulated fuel bed 504 are also at least partially observable through the transition region 532. The screen 518 includes a back surface 534 located behind and opposite to the front surface 520. The portion of the back surface 534 which is opposite to the viewing region 528 preferably is adapted to diffuse light transmitted therethrough. In addition, in the portion of the back surface 534 which is located opposite to the transition region 532, the back surface 534 preferably diffuses light transmitted therethrough to a limited extent only. It is also preferred that the portion of the back surface 534 which is opposite to the observation region 530 is substantially transparent.
Although the viewing region 528, the transition region 532, and the observation region 530 are shown in
As can be seen in
It will be understood that, in
As can be seen in
For example, in one embodiment where the pattern 536 simulates firebrick (or where actual firebrick is in the simulated interior fireplace wall 526), the patterns 542 also simulate firebrick. The patterns 542 preferably are configured to mate with the firebrick pattern 536 in or on the simulated interior fireplace wall 526.
In order to provide an improved simulation effect, it is also preferred that the flame simulating assembly 510 includes a flame effect element 546 which configures light from the light source 516 to form the images of flames 11. The flame effect element 546 is positioned in the path of light 519 between the light source 516 and the screen 518 (
In use, light from the light source 516 is reflected by the flicker element 544 as the flicker element 544 rotates, causing the reflected light to fluctuate, so that the reflected light fluctuates similarly to fluctuating light provided by a fire. The fluctuating light from the light source 516 is configured by the flame effect element 546 so that the fluctuating light forms the images of flames 11 observable in the viewing region 528 and, to an extent, in the transition region 532. An observer therefore can observe the images of flames 11 and, simultaneously, the patterns 536, 542 on the simulated interior fireplace wall 526 and the side walls 556, 558, thereby enhancing the simulation effect. (The eye 66 of the observer is shown in
As can be seen in
In an alternative embodiment, the member 564 includes a light randomizer or scatterer or diffuser, i.e., so as to diffuse light and not transmit an image. In this embodiment, light from the light source 516 is directed to the scatterer 564 and scattered or diffused to provide an unfocused light propagated generally rearwardly, and somewhat upwardly, as schematically illustrated by arrow “E” in
Another alternative embodiment of a flame simulating assembly 610 is shown in
Preferably, the flame simulating assembly 610 includes a housing 648 with a back wall 650. The simulated interior fireplace wall 626 preferably is mounted on the back wall 650. Similarly to the screens described above, the front surface 620 of the screen 618 includes a viewing region 628, and observation region 630, and a transition region 632 positioned between the viewing region 628 and the observation region 630. Although the viewing region 628, the transition region 632, and the observation region 630 are shown in
In one embodiment, the light provided by the background light source 690 flickers so that such light simulates flickering (or fluctuating) light provided by a fire. Such light is intended to simulate light from a fire which would be directed towards the back wall and the side walls. Accordingly, the flickering or fluctuating thereof should flicker in a way which is generally consistent with the flickering light from the light source 616 which provides the flame effect.
Different ways to cause light from the background light source 690 to flicker or fluctuate would be known to those skilled in the art. For example, in order to cause light from the background light source 690 to flicker, the invention disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,385,881 could be used. U.S. Pat. No. 6,385,881 is hereby incorporated herein by reference. The '881 patent discloses a device including a photosensor, a control circuit, and display lighting to produce a flickering effect that is substantially synchronized with changes in light intensity occurring within the simulated fireplace.
Alternatively, the background light source 690 could be caused to flicker by means of a controlling means, as disclosed at paragraphs 0076-0082 in co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/252,596, filed on Oct. 19, 2005. The entire specification of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/252,596 is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
It is also preferred that the flame simulating assembly 610 includes a background light shield 692 for obstructing light from the background light source 690 (
In one embodiment, the housing 648 includes two or more simulated interior fireplace side walls 656, 658. Each of the simulated interior fireplace side walls 656, 658 extends forwardly from the back wall 650. It is also preferred that the background light source 690 at least partially illuminates the simulated interior fireplace side walls 656, 658, as well as illuminating (at least in part) the simulated interior fireplace wall 626.
In use, light from the light source 616 is reflected by a rotating flicker element 644, which causes the light from the light source 616 to fluctuate. The fluctuating light is configured by a flame effect element 646 to provide images of flames 11 which are transmitted through the screen 618. The images of flames 11 are observable in the viewing region 628 and in the transition region 632, to an extent.
As can be seen in
In an alternative embodiment, the member 664 includes a light randomizer (or scatterer or diffuser), i.e., so as to diffuse light and not transmit an image. In this embodiment, light from the light source 616 is directed to the scatterer 664 and scattered or diffused to provide an unfocused light propagated generally rearwardly, and somewhat upwardly, as schematically illustrated by arrow “F” in
The simulated interior fireplace wall 626 and the simulated interior fireplace side walls 656, 658 are illuminated by the background light source 690, which provides a flickering (or fluctuating) light similar to the light provided by a fire. The illumination of the simulated interior fireplace wall 626 and the simulated interior fireplace side walls 656, 658 enhances the simulation effect, as such illumination is observable through the observation region 630 and, to an extent, also through the transition region 632. Accordingly, the observer can view the illuminated simulated interior fireplace wall 626 and the simulated interior fireplace side walls 656, 658 simultaneously when viewing the image of flames 11 in the viewing region 628 and, to an extent, in the transition region 632. The overall effect achieved is an effective simulation of a fire in a fireplace.
In one embodiment, the simulated interior fireplace wall 626 preferably includes a pattern 636, and the simulated interior fireplace side walls 656, 658 also include one or more patterns 642 in or on the side walls 656, 658. As described above, it is preferred that the patterns 636, 642 resemble firebrick, and it is also preferred that the patterns 636, 642 mate (i.e., are substantially aligned) with each other, to provide an enhanced simulation effect.
As shown in
Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the background light source 690 may be positioned appropriately relative to the simulated interior fireplace wall 626 and/or the side walls 656, 658 by a wide variety of means.
Preferably, the background light source 690 includes a number of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) which substantially illuminate at least parts of the simulated interior fireplace wall 626 and the side walls 656, 658. In particular, it is preferred that the background light source 690 illuminates the simulated interior fireplace wall 626 across substantially the width thereof. The background light source 690 preferably provides light which is amber in color. Alternatively, mini-incandescent light bulbs are used instead of LEDs.
Another alternative embodiment of a flame simulating assembly 710 is disclosed in
As can be seen in
The front surface 720 of the screen 718 preferably includes a viewing region 728, and a transition region 732 disposed at least partially between the viewing region 728 and the top edge 770. In the preferred embodiment, the viewing region 728 is partially reflective, and the images of flames 11 are also transmittable through the viewing region 728. The screen 718 could be suitably tinted glass or plastic (or other suitable material) through which the images of flames are transmittable. Preferably, the transition region 732 extends from the viewing region 728 to the top edge 770. The transition region 732 is preferably less silvered then the viewing region 728 (and therefore the transition region 732 is also partly reflective, but less so generally than the viewing region 728), so that the back wall 750 is at least partially viewable through the transition region 732. The images of flames 11 are also at least partially observable through the transition region 732. A back surface 734 of the screen 718 diffuses light from the light source 716, to enhance the overall simulation effect. Preferably, the viewing region 728 is at least partially translucent. The transition region 732 also could be suitably tinted, to enhance the overall simulation effect.
In an alternative embodiment, the front surface of the screen 718 may include one or more observation regions, generally disposed between the transition region 732 and the top edge 770.
It will be understood that the top edge 770 may be curved, or substantially horizontal. If curved, for example, the top edge 770 may define a screen which is (for example) generally semi-circular, to provide a flat surface which is sufficiently large to accommodate the image of flames 11 which is commensurate with the simulated fuel bed 714.
Preferably, the housing 748 additionally includes two or more simulated interior fireplace side walls which each extend forwardly from the back wall 750. (It will be understood that only one side wall 756 is shown in
As can also be seen in
As can be seen in
In an alternative embodiment, the member 764 includes a light randomizer (or scatterer or diffuser), i.e., so as to diffuse light and not transmit an image. In this embodiment, light from the light source 716 is directed to the scatterer 764 and scattered or diffused to provide an unfocused light propagated generally rearwardly, and somewhat upwardly, as schematically illustrated by arrow “G” in
As described above, it is preferred that the second simulated fuel bed 704 includes more than one separate log portion 706, and the separate log portions are preferably located on either side of the screen, and behind the screen. It will be understood that only one log portion of the second simulated fuel bed 704 is shown (i.e., in dashed outline) in
In use, light from the light source 716 is reflected by the flicker element 744 as the flicker element 744 rotates, causing the reflected light to fluctuate similarly to fluctuating light provided by a fire. Preferably, the fluctuating (or flickering) light from the light source 716 is configured by the flame effect element 746 so that the fluctuating light forms the images of flames 11 observable in the viewing region 728 and, to an extent, in the transition region 732.
An observer therefore observes the images of flames 11 and, simultaneously, the patterns 736, 742 on the simulated interior fireplace wall 726 and the side walls, thereby enhancing the simulation effect. In addition, the observer also simultaneously observes portions 706 of the second simulated fuel bed 704. The portions 706 preferably are positioned relative to the virtual image (not shown in
Where the back wall 750 includes real firebricks, the overall simulation effect is enhanced. In this embodiment, the observer simultaneously observes the firebrick in the back wall 750 and the patterns 742 on the side walls, which together provide a realistic simulation of a firebox of a real fireplace. The observer also simultaneously observes the images of flames 11 appearing substantially among (or between) the first simulated fuel bed 714 and the second simulated fuel bed 704.
Another alternative embodiment of a flame simulating assembly 810 is shown in
As shown in
As can be seen in
The front surface 820 of the screen 818 preferably includes a viewing region 828, and a transition region 832 disposed at least partially between the viewing region 828 and the top edge 870. In the preferred embodiment, the viewing region 828 is partially reflective, and the images of moving flames 11 are also transmittable through the viewing region 828. The screen 818 could be suitably tinted glass or plastic (or other suitable material) through which the images of flames 11 are transmittable. Preferably, the transition region 832 extends from the viewing region 828 to the top edge 870. The transition region 832 is preferably less silvered then the viewing region 828 (and therefore the transition region 832 is also partly reflective, but less so generally than the viewing region 828), so that the back wall 850 is at least partially viewable through the transition region 832. The images of flames 11 are also at least partially observable through the transition region 832. A back surface 834 of the screen 818 diffuses light from the light source 816, to enhance the overall simulation effect. Preferably, the viewing region 828 is at least partially translucent. The transition region 832 also could be suitably tinted, to enhance the overall simulation effect. In an alternative embodiment, the front surface 820 may include one or more observation regions, generally disposed between the transition region 832 and the top edge 870.
It will be understood that the top edge 870 may be curved, or substantially horizontal. If curved, for example, the top edge 870 may define a screen which is (for example) generally semi-circular, to provide a flat surface which is sufficiently large to accommodate the image of flames 11 which is commensurate with the simulated fuel bed 814.
Preferably, the housing 848 additionally includes two or more simulated interior fireplace side walls which each extend forwardly from the back wall 850. (It will be understood that only one side wall 856 is shown in
In one embodiment, the back wall 850 includes real firebricks, to provide an enhanced simulation. In this embodiment, the patterns 842 on the side walls are substantially aligned with the firebricks in the back wall, to simulate an interior of a firebox in a real fireplace.
As can also be seen in
The flame simulating assembly 810 preferably includes one or more background light sources 890 for providing light to at least partially illuminate the simulated interior fireplace wall 826.
In one embodiment, the light provided by the background light source 890 flickers so that such light simulates flickering (or fluctuating) light provided by a fire. Such light is intended to simulate light from a fire which would be directed towards the back wall and the side walls. Accordingly, the flickering or fluctuating thereof preferably flickers in a manner which is generally consistent with the flickering light from the light source 816 which provides the flame effect.
Different ways to cause light from the background light source 890 to flicker or fluctuate would be known to those skilled in the art. For example, in order to cause light from the background light source 890 to flicker, the invention disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,385,881 could be used. The '881 patent discloses a device including a photosensor, a control circuit, and display lighting to produce a flickering effect that is substantially synchronized with changes in light intensity occurring within the simulated fireplace.
Alternatively, the background light source 890 could be caused to flicker by means of a controlling means, as disclosed at paragraphs 0076-0082 in co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/252,596, filed on Oct. 19, 2005. The entire specification of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/252,596 is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
It is also preferred that the flame simulating assembly 810 includes a background light shield 892 for obstructing light from the background light source 890. The background light shield 892 preferably is positioned behind the screen 818 to illuminate the back wall and the side walls, as will be described. The shield 892 is used to enhance the simulation effect provided by the flame simulating assembly 810. The shield 892 is advantageous because, in the absence thereof, light from the background light source 890 would be allowed to be directed upwardly and/or forwardly (i.e., towards the screen 818), thereby providing a distraction to the observer inconsistent with the flame simulation effect sought to be achieved with the flame simulating assembly 810.
In use, light from the light source 816 is reflected by a rotating flicker element 844, which causes such light from the light source 816 to fluctuate. The fluctuating light is configured by a flame effect element 846 to provide images of flames 11 which are transmitted through the screen 818. The images of flames 11 are observable in the viewing region 828 and in the transition region 832, to an extent.
As can be seen in
In an alternative embodiment, the member 864 includes a light randomizer (or scatterer or diffuser), i.e., so as to diffuse light and not transmit an image. In this embodiment, light from the light source 816 is directed to the scatterer 864 and scattered or diffused to provide an unfocused light propagated generally rearwardly, and somewhat upwardly, as schematically illustrated by arrow “H” in
The simulated interior fireplace wall 826 and the simulated interior fireplace side walls are illuminated by the background light source 890, which provides a flickering (or fluctuating) light similar to the light provided by a fire. The illumination of the simulated interior fireplace wall 826 and the simulated interior fireplace side walls enhances the simulation effect, as such illumination is observable through the opening 872 and, to an extent, also through the transition region 832. Accordingly, the observer can view the illuminated simulated interior fireplace wall 826 and the simulated interior fireplace side walls simultaneously when viewing the image of flames 11 in the viewing region 828 and, to an extent, in the transition region 832. The overall effect achieved is an effective simulation of a fire in a fireplace.
As shown in
Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the background light source 890 may be positioned appropriately relative to the simulated interior fireplace wall 826 and/or the side walls by any suitable means.
Preferably, the background light source 890 includes a number of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) which substantially illuminate at least parts of the simulated interior fireplace wall 826 and the side walls. In particular, it is preferred that the background light source 890 illuminates the simulated interior fireplace wall 826 across substantially the width thereof. The background light source 890 preferably provides light which is amber in color. Alternatively, mini-incandescent light bulbs are used instead of LEDs.
Another alternative embodiment of a flame simulating assembly 910 is shown in
It is also preferred that the front surface 920 comprises an observation region 930 through which part of the interior fireplace wall is observable. Also, the front surface 920 preferably includes a viewing region 928, and the images of flames are transmittable through the viewing region.
Also, the front surface of the screen preferably includes a transition region 932 which is positioned between the viewing region and the observation region. The images of flames are at least partly transmittable through the transition region, and also the simulated interior fireplace wall and the second portion of the simulated fuel bed are partially observable through the transition region.
As can be seen in
It will also be understood that the first portion and the second portion may consist of some or all of the simulated fuel parts, the simulated grate, and the simulated ember bed.
The simulated fuel bed 978 is advantageous because, due to its unitary structure, it provides an effective simulation of the fuel bed (i.e., including a grate) of a real fire.
It will be evident to those skilled in the art that the invention can take many forms, and that such forms are within the scope of the invention as claimed. Therefore, the spirit and scope of the appended claims should not be limited to the descriptions of the versions contained herein.
This application is a continuation-in-part of prior application Ser. No. 10/759,143, filed Jan. 20, 2004.
Number | Date | Country | |
---|---|---|---|
Parent | 10759143 | Jan 2004 | US |
Child | 11622771 | Jan 2007 | US |