MAGNETIC LIGHTER

Abstract

A magnetic lighter, whereby a lighter and at least one magnet material are combined so as to form a magnetic lighter capable of magnetically engaging objects having magnetic properties as well as various accessories.

Description

This invention relates to lighters and more particularly to magnetic lighters that are capable of magnetically engaging metal or magnetic objects and various connectors.

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY

Embodiments of the invention comprise a magnetic lighter. More specifically, one embodiment of the invention comprises an apparatus whereby a cigarette lighter is combined with a connector, such as a key ring, hook, eyelet, or other such connector, so as to form a single device. Alternative embodiments of the invention combine a lighter and at least one magnet so as to form a magnetic lighter that is capable of magnetically engaging metal or magnetic objects and various connectors.

It is well known that individuals commonly use key chains, sometimes called key fobs, and/or key rings, to conveniently organize and aggregate keys, such as car keys, keys to one's home or office, and other keys in a portable and accessible manner. Key chains routinely consist of a small chain or other connecting means, commonly made from metal or plastic, that connects to a key ring. The length of a key chain allows an item, such as a key, to be used more readily and easily. Some key chains are designed so as to allow one or both ends to rotate, thereby preventing the key chain from becoming twisted or tangled.

One advantage of using a key chain is that one's keys are more easily identifiable, etc. A key chain is commonly a decorative and/or functional item implemented as part of a key carrying mechanism, such as with key rings, to provide a better grip, provide easy access to a tool, or to make a personal statement. Many people commonly use the terms key fob, key chain, and key ring interchangeably.

Key chains vary in size and style. Many common key chains comprise simple shapes, sometimes incorporating a message or symbol. A key chain may be strictly symbolic, or it may be functional, such as a small flashlight, knife, store discount card, thermometer, etc.

Key rings are commonly comprised of clips, hooks, expandable rings, and other such means whereby keys, and possibly other items, such as remote-entry devices, small knives, nail clippers, bottle openers, and the like are releasably attached thereto. Most people use key rings in combination with key chains, as discussed above, however, key rings can also be used independently of key chains.

Perhaps the most common key ring configuration is an expandable ring comprising two complete loops. Either end of the ring can be pried open, or expanded, so as to allow a key or other item to be inserted and slid along the spiral portion of the ring, thereby securing the key onto the ring. Other forms of rings use a single loop of metal or plastic with a means to open and securely fasten or close the loop. Such devices are well known to those having skill in the art.

The term lighter generally refers to a portable device used to create a flame. It consists of a plastic (such as lighters manufactured by BiC®) or metal (such as lighters manufactured by Zippo®) container filled with lighter fluid (usually naphtha or liquid butane under pressure), as well as a means of ignition and some provision for extinguishing the flame. Lighters come in many colors, and as with key chains, often feature slogans and/or graphics that make a personal statement. Some lighters are disposable, while others are intended for repeated use. Generally, lighters comprised of plastic are intended to be disposed of upon consumption of the fuel contained therein, while lighters designed to be refilled and/or constructed of metal are intended for more long term use.

Lighters are commonly carried by smokers for the purpose of lighting cigars, cigarettes, pipes, etc., and by individuals who are otherwise required or desire to carry a portable and efficient means of creating fire. Given the proportionally small size of lighters and the routine high frequency of use, users of lighters often lose them, misplace them, etc. This of course is both undesirable and inconvenient. Further, some lighters are expensive, valuable, and/or have sentimental value to the user, adding to the need to prevent loss thereof.

One embodiment of the invention comprises a lighter which magnetically incorporates a key ring, so as to comprise a magnetic lighter key chain combination. In one embodiment a lighter is configured so that the bottom end of the lighter is capable of engaging a key ring. For instance, the bottom portion of the lighter is designed with an opening or cavity, whereby the opening functions as the female connector portion of a male-female connector which receives a male connector attached to a key ring. The cavity may be constructed of, or lined with, a magnetic material, such as a magnetic metal, alloy, or ceramic.

The key ring portion of the device comprises a key ring attached to a male connector portion of a male-female connector, the male portion being capable of insertion into the cavity in the bottom of the lighter. The male connector may be comprised of a magnet or magnetic material so as to magnetically adhere to the walls of the cavity in the bottom of the lighter upon insertion therein. In this manner the lighter and key ring can be engaged so as to form a unitary device. Likewise, the lighter and key ring can be easily disengaged whenever it is necessary or desirable to do so.

In another embodiment a key ring is attached to a connector designed to receive a metal lighter, such as a Zippo® lighter. The connector functions as a female connector and incorporates a magnet or magnetic material so as to magnetically adhere to the outside walls of a metal lighter. The lighter is then inserted into the connector attached to the key ring. In this manner the lighter and key ring can be engaged so as to form a unitary device. Likewise, the lighter and key ring can be easily disengaged.

This embodiment of the invention facilitates both access to and utilization of a lighter and a key chain. This is desirable so as to save space in one's pocket or hand bag otherwise taken up by separate key chains and lighters and to prevent the accidental loss of either component. Additionally, considering that most people do not leave home without their keys, use of this embodiment of the invention ensures that one's lighter is always accessible for use.

Another embodiment of the invention comprises a lighter with a magnet or magnetic material, or multiple magnets, disposed therein. The magnet(s) or magnetic material is/are disposed within the lighter at any location(s) desired as long as the placement does not otherwise interfere with the functionality of the lighter. The magnetic properties of these embodiments will allow the lighter to be attached to objects having magnetic properties. This will allow for the convenient placement and storage of the lighter and will also help prevent the misplacement or loss of such lighter.

In another form of this embodiment, the magnet(s) or magnetic material is/are accessible via an opening or openings of the lighter so as to allow for the magnetic attachment of components such as a pin, ring, hook, lanyard, clasp, carabineer, clip, suction cup, adhesive, or other such device. Depending on the number of magnets/openings, it is possible to attach multiple components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more complete understanding of the embodiments of the invention may be had by reference to the following Detailed Description when taken in connection with the accompanying Drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the present invention in its engaged configuration;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the present invention in its disengaged configuration;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the present invention in its disengaged configuration;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of the present invention in its disengaged configuration;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of the present invention in its disengaged configuration;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of the present invention in its disengaged configuration;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of the present invention in its disengaged configuration;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a seventh embodiment of the present invention in its disengaged configuration;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an eighth embodiment of the present invention in its disengaged configuration;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an eighth embodiment of the present invention in its engaged configuration;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a ninth embodiment of the present invention in its disengaged configuration;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a ninth embodiment of the present invention in its engaged configuration;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a tenth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14 is an alternate perspective view of a tenth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 15 is an alternate perspective view of a tenth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16 is a side elevational view of a tenth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a connector which can be utilized with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a connector which can be utilized with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a connector which can be utilized with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a connector which can be utilized with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a connector which can be utilized with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a connector which can be utilized with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 23 is perspective view of a connector which can be utilized with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of an eleventh embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a twelfth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a fourteenth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a fifteenth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a sixteenth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention attached to a clip connector;

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention attached to a package of cigarettes;

FIG. 32 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention attached to a cane;

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention attached to a belt;

FIG. 34 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention attached to a refrigerator;

FIG. 35 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention attached to a hand bag;

FIG. 36 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention attached to a belt loop;

FIG. 37 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention attached to a switch plate;

FIG. 38 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention attached to a lamp;

FIG. 39 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention attached to a table;

FIG. 40 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention attached to bag;

FIG. 41 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention attached to a fan;

FIG. 42 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention attached to a waste basket;

FIG. 43 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention attached to a tissue paper dispenser;

FIG. 44 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention attached to a fence;

FIG. 45 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention attached to a wall;

FIG. 46 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention attached to a pet collar;

FIG. 47 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention attached to a golf bag;

FIG. 48 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention attached to a guitar; and

FIG. 49 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention alternatively attached to a guitar.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to the drawings, and particularly to FIG. 2 thereof, there is shown an embodiment of a magnetic lighter 1 comprising the present invention. A lighter 2 is shown. The bottom portion 3 of the lighter 2 has an opening or cavity 4 which functions as a female connector portion of a male-female connector. The cavity 4 is generally concave, with a slot 5 disposed in its center. The slot 5 is rectangular in shape. The walls of the slot 5 are comprised of, or lined with, a magnet or a magnetic material such as a magnetic metal, alloy, or ceramic. Preferably, a lightweight magnet/magnetic material is utilized so as to minimize the overall weight of the magnetic lighter 1. Proper magnets/magnetic materials for incorporation into the walls of the slot 5 are well known to those having skill in the art.

A key ring 6 is shown attached to a connector 7. It is envisioned that alternate types of rings, clips, or hooks can be substituted for the key ring 6. The key ring 6 attaches to the connector 7 via an eyelet 8. The eyelet 8 functions like a socket so as to allow the key ring 6 to freely rotate. Eyelet means such as the eyelet 8 are well known to those having skill in the art. The eyelet 8 can be made out of metal or plastic and is integrated into the connector 7. The manner in which the eyelet 8 is integrated into the connector 7 will be well known to those having skill in the art. Other means of attaching the key ring 6 to the connector 7 can also be used, such means being well known to those having skill in the art.

The base portion 9 of the connector 7 is convex in shape, mirroring the concave cavity 4 of the lighter 2. Extending perpendicularly from the base portion 9, the connector 7 comprises a rectangularly shaped member 10. The base portion 9 is constructed of metal, plastic, or other such materials. The rectangularly shaped member 10 extends from the center of the base portion 9, forming a T. In the embodiment shown, the connector 7 is unitary, however, in alternative embodiments connectors comprising separate pieces are used.

The rectangularly shaped member 10 of the connector 7 incorporates a magnet or a magnetic material 11. Preferably, a lightweight magnet/magnetic material is utilized so as to minimize the overall weight of the connector 7. Proper magnets/magnetic materials for incorporation into the rectangularly shaped member 10 are well known to those having skill in the art. In one embodiment the entire rectangularly shaped member 10 is constructed of the magnet/magnetic material 11. In an alternative embodiment, the outside walls of the rectangularly shaped member 10 incorporate the magnet/magnetic material 11, with the remainder of the rectangularly shaped member 10 being constructed of metal, plastic, or other such materials.

The connector 7 functions as the male connector portion of a male-female connector. As is shown, the connector 7 is inserted into the cavity 4, so as to magnetically join the connector 7/key ring 6 and the lighter 2. Upon insertion, the rectangularly shaped member 10 slides inside the slot 5. The magnet/magnetic material 11 of the rectangularly shaped member 10 attracts the magnet/magnetic material of the walls of the slot 5, thereby magnetically joining the key ring 6 and the lighter 2, thus forming a magnetic lighter key chain combination, as is shown in FIG. 1. The key ring 6 is separated from the lighter 2 by gently pulling on the key ring 6. Alternatively, the male and female connectors are reversed so that the male connector is positioned on the lighter 2, and the female connector is attached to the key ring 6.

Referring to FIG. 3, the embodiment shown is identical to that shown in FIG. 2, except that the connector 7 utilizes a conically shaped member 12 as opposed to a rectangularly shaped member. The slot 13 is therefore also conical in shape, so as to receive the conically shaped member 12. The remainder of the foregoing description with respect to the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 is likewise applicable to the embodiment shown in FIG. 3.

Referring to FIG. 4, the embodiment shown is identical to that shown in FIG. 2, except that the connector 7 utilizes a cylindrically shaped member 14 as opposed to a rectangularly shaped member. The slot 15 is therefore also cylindrical in shape, so as to receive the cylindrically shaped member 14. The remainder of the forgoing description with respect to the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 is likewise applicable to the embodiment shown in FIG. 4.

Referring to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1-4, it is pointed out that the connector portions and cavity/slot portions can be of any desired shapes, depending upon the embodiment. The respective shapes are not limited to those shown herein.

Referring to FIG. 5, a lighter 16 is shown. The bottom portion 17 of the lighter 16 has a slot 18 which functions as a female connector portion of a male-female connector. The slot 18 is rectangular in shape. The walls of the slot 18 may be comprised of, or lined with, a magnet or a magnetic material such as a magnetic metal, alloy, or ceramic. Preferably, a lightweight magnet/magnetic material is utilized so as to minimize the overall weight of the magnetic lighter. Proper magnets/magnetic materials for incorporation into the walls of the slot 18 are well known to those having skill in the art.

A key ring 19 is shown attached to a connector 20. It is envisioned that alternate types of rings, clips, or hooks can be substituted for the key ring 19. The key ring 19 attaches to the connector 20 via a hole 21 in the connector 20. Other means of attaching the key ring 19 to the connector 20 can also be used, such means being well known to those having skill in the art.

The bottom portion 22 of the connector 20 is rectangular in shape, mirroring the slot 18 of the lighter 16. The connector 20 can be constructed of metal, plastic, or other such materials. In the embodiment shown, the connector 20 is unitary, however, in alternative embodiments connectors comprising separate pieces are used.

The connector 20 incorporates a magnet/magnetic material 23. Preferably, a lightweight magnet/magnetic material is utilized so as to minimize the overall weight of the connector 20. Proper magnets/magnetic materials for incorporation into the connector 20 are well known to those having skill in the art. In one embodiment, the entire connector 20 is constructed of the magnet/magnetic material 23. In an alternative embodiment, just the bottom portion of the connector 20 is constructed of the magnet/magnetic material 23. In yet additional alternative embodiments, the outside walls of the connector 20, or the bottom portion 22 of the connector 20, incorporate the magnet/magnetic material 23, with the remainder of the connector 20 being constructed of plastic or other such materials.

The connector 20 functions as the male connector portion of a male-female connector. As is shown, the connector 20 is inserted into the slot 18, so as to magnetically join the connector 20/key ring 19 and the lighter 16. The magnet/magnetic material 23 of the connector 20 attracts the magnet/magnetic material of the walls of the slot 18, thereby magnetically joining the key ring 19 and the lighter 16, so as to form a magnetic key chain lighter combination. The key ring 19 is separated from the lighter 16 by gently pulling on the key ring 19. Alternatively, the male and female connectors are reversed so that the male connector is positioned on the lighter 16, and the female connector is attached to the key ring 19.

Referring to FIG. 6, the embodiment shown is identical to that shown in FIG. 5, except that the connector 20 utilizes a conically shaped member 24 as opposed to a rectangularly shaped member. The slot 25 is therefore also conical in shape, so as to receive the conically shaped member 24. The remainder of the forgoing description with respect to the embodiment shown in FIG. 5 is likewise applicable to the embodiment shown in FIG. 6.

Referring to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 5-7, it is pointed out that the connector portions and cavity/slot portions can be of any desired shapes, depending upon the embodiment. The respective shapes are not limited to those shown herein.

Referring to FIG. 7, the embodiment shown is identical to that shown in FIG. 5, except that the connector 20 utilizes a cylindrically shaped member 26 as opposed to a rectangularly shaped member. The slot 27 is therefore also cylindrical in shape, so as to receive the cylindrically shaped member 26. The remainder of the forgoing description with respect to the embodiment shown in FIG. 5 is likewise applicable to the embodiment shown in FIG. 7.

Referring now to FIG. 8, a metal lighter 28, such as a Zippo® lighter, is shown. A connector 29 is additionally shown. The connector 29 is constructed of metal, plastic, or other such materials. Ideally, it may be desirable to construct the connector 29 of the same material as the metal lighter 28, however this is not required. The connector 29 is generally rectangular in shape. The connector 29 is open at the top and hollow on the inside, so as to receive the metal lighter 28. The dimensions of the inside of the connector 29 are such that the metal lighter 28 can be inserted into it with a slight amount of force. In essence, the connector 29 functions as a female connector.

A magnet/magnetic material 30 is disposed within the bottom portion 31 of the connector 29. Preferably, a lightweight magnet/magnetic material is utilized so as to minimize the overall weight of the connector 29. Proper magnets/magnetic materials for incorporation into the connector 29 are well known to those having skill in the art.

A key ring 32 is attached to the connector 29. In alternative embodiments, alternate type rings, clips, or hooks are substituted for the key ring 32. The key ring 32 attaches to the connector 29 via an eyelet. The eyelet, as shown in FIGS. 1-4, functions as a socket which allows the key ring 32 to freely rotate. Eyelet means such as the eyelet here utilized are well known to those having skill in the art. The eyelet is made out of metal or plastic and is integrated into the connector 29. The manner in which the eyelet is integrated into the connector 29 will be well known to those having skill in the art. In alternative embodiments, other means of attaching the key ring 32 to the connector 29 are used, such means being well known to those having skill in the art.

As discussed heretofore, the metal lighter 28 is inserted into the connector 29 so as to join the connector 29 and the metal lighter 28. Upon insertion, the magnet/magnetic material 30 attracts the magnet/magnetic material of the metal lighter 28, thereby magnetically joining the key ring 32 and the metal lighter 28, so as to form the magnetic key chain lighter combination. The key ring 32 can be separated from the metal lighter 28 by gently pulling on the key ring 32.

Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10 a lighter 101 is shown. The bottom portion 103 of the lighter 101 is disposed with a cavity 105 having an opening 107. In the embodiment shown the cavity 105 is cylindrical in shape. In alternative embodiments the cavity 105 has alternative shapes, such as rectangular, conical, etc. depending on the embodiment.

A magnet or magnetic material such as a magnetic metal, alloy, or ceramic 109 is disposed within the lighter 101 in relative position to the cavity 105. In an alternative embodiment the cavity 105 is lined with a magnet/magnetic material. This embodiment encompasses the use of the magnet/magnetic material 109 as well as the nonuse of the magnet/magnetic material 109. The magnet/magnetic material 109 is positioned so as not to interfere with the functionality of the lighter. In the embodiment shown the magnet/magnetic material 109 is cylindrical. In alternative embodiments the magnet/magnetic material 109 has alternative shapes, such as rectangular, conical, etc. The magnet/magnetic material 109 can be of any desired shape, depending on the embodiment. Preferably, a lightweight magnet/magnetic material is utilized so as to minimize the overall weight of the lighter.

A key ring 111 is shown attached to a connector 113. The key ring 111 attaches to the connector 113 via a hole 115 in the connector 113. In alternative embodiments other means of attaching the key ring 111 to the connector 113 are used, such means being well known to those having skill in the art. In alternative embodiments alternative accessories, such as hooks, clasps, lanyards, and the like can be attached to the connector 113 via the hole 115.

In the embodiment shown the bottom portion 117 of the connector 113 is cylindrical in shape, mirroring the cavity 105 of the lighter 101. In alternative embodiments the connector 113 and the bottom portion 117 of the connector 113 have alternative shapes, such as rectangular, conical, etc. The bottom portion 117 of the connector 113 can be of any desired shape as long as it matches the shape of the cavity 105 of the lighter 101.

The connector 113 is constructed of a magnet or magnetic material so as to magnetically adhere to the magnet/magnetic material 109 disposed in the lighter 101. In the embodiment where the cavity 105 is lined with a magnet/magnetic material, the connector 113 will magnetically adhere to the walls of the cavity 105. Preferably, a lightweight magnet/magnetic material is utilized. Proper magnets/magnetic materials for incorporation into the connector 113 are well known to those having skill in the art. In one embodiment the entire connector 113 is constructed of the magnet/magnetic material. In an alternative embodiment just the bottom portion 117 of the connector 113 is constructed of the magnet/magnetic material. In yet additional alternative embodiments the outside walls of the connector 113 or the bottom portion 117 of the connector 113 incorporate the magnet/magnetic material, with the remainder of the connector 113 being constructed of alternative materials such as plastic or other such materials.

As is shown, the connector 113 is inserted into the cavity 105 through the opening 107 of the lighter 101 so as to magnetically join the connector 113 and the lighter 101. The magnet/magnetic material of the connector 113 adheres to the magnet/magnetic material 109 disposed within the lighter 101, thereby magnetically joining the connector 113 and the lighter 101. The connector 113 is separated from the lighter 101 by gently pulling on the connector 113 or the accessory, such as the key ring 111, that is attached to the connector 113.

Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, yet another embodiment of the present invention is shown. A cap 201 is configured to fit over the bottom portion 205 of a lighter 203. Different embodiments of the cap 201 will have different shapes so as to fit over alternatively shaped lighters. The bottom portion 207 of the cap 201 is disposed with a cavity 209 having an opening 211. In the embodiment shown, the cavity 209 is rectangular in shape. In alternative embodiments, the cavity 209 has alternate shapes, such as cylindrical, conical, etc. The cavity 209 can be of any desired shape depending on the embodiment. A magnet or magnetic material such as a magnetic metal, alloy, or ceramic 212 is disposed within the cap 201. In an alternative embodiment the cavity 209 is lined with a magnet/magnetic material. This embodiment encompasses the use of the magnet/magnetic material 211 as well as the nonuse of the magnet/magnetic material 211. In the embodiment shown, the magnet/magnetic material 212 is rectangular. In alternative embodiments, the magnet/magnetic material 212 has alternative shapes, such as cylindrical, conical, etc. The magnet/magnetic material 212 can be of any desired shape depending on the embodiment. Preferably, a lightweight, magnet/magnetic material is utilized so as to minimize the overall weight of the cap.

A key ring 213 is shown attached to a connector 215. The key ring 213 attaches to the connector 215 via a hole 217 in the connector 215. In alternative embodiments other means of attaching the key ring 213 to the connector 215 are used, such means being well known to those having skill in the art. In alternative embodiments, other accessories, such as hooks, clasps, lanyards, and the like can be attached to the connector 215 via the hole 217.

In the embodiment shown the bottom portion 219 of the connector 215 is rectangular in shape, mirroring the cavity 209 of the cap 201. In alternative embodiments, the connector 215 has alternative shapes, such as cylindrical, conical, etc. The connector 215 can be of any desired shape as long as it matches the shape of the cavity 209 of the cap 201. The connector 215 is constructed of a magnet or magnetic material so as to magnetically adhere to the magnet/magnetic material 109 disposed in the cap 201. Preferably, a lightweight magnet/magnetic material is utilized. Proper magnets/magnetic materials for incorporation into the connector 215 are well known to those having skill in the art. In one embodiment, the entire connector 215 is constructed of the magnet/magnetic material. In an alternative embodiment, just the bottom portion 219 of the connector 215 is constructed of the magnet/magnetic material. In yet additional alternative embodiments the outside walls of the connector 215 or the bottom portion 219 of the connector 215 incorporate the magnet/magnetic material, with the remainder of the connector 215 being constructed of plastic or other such materials.

As is shown, the connector 215 is inserted into the cavity 209 through the opening 211 of the cap 201, so as to magnetically join the connector 215 and the cap 201. The magnet/magnetic material of the connector 215 adheres to the magnet/magnetic material 212 disposed within the cap 201 thereby magnetically joining the connector 215 and the cap 201. The connector 215 is separated from the cap 201 by gently pulling on the connector 215 or the accessory, such as the key ring 213, that, is attached to the connector 215. Likewise, the cap 201 fits over the bottom portion 205 of the lighter 203 so as to create the magnetic lighter combination.

Referring now to FIGS. 13-16 a lighter 301 is shown. The lighter 301 is not limited to the shape and size shown in FIGS. 13-16. Alternative embodiments of the lighter 301 will be of different shapes and/or sizes. The lighter 301 is disposed with a plurality of cavities 303 wherein each cavity is defined by an opening 305. Alternative embodiments will have different numbers and/or sizes of cavities. In addition, the cavities will be disposed at different positions within the lighter in alternative embodiments.

In the embodiment shown the cavities 303 are cylindrical in shape. In alternative embodiments the cavities 303 will have alternative shapes, such as rectangular, conical, etc. depending on the embodiment.

A magnet or magnetic material such as a magnetic metal, alloy, or ceramic is disposed within the lighter 301 in relative position to each cavity 303. The placement of the magnets/magnetic materials will be the same as that shown and discussed in connection with FIGS. 9 and 10. The magnets/magnetic materials are positioned so as not to interfere with the functionality of the lighter 301. In the embodiment shown the magnets/magnetic materials are cylindrical. In alternative embodiments the magnets/magnetic materials have alternative shapes, such as rectangular, conical, etc. depending on the embodiment. In an additional alternative embodiment, the walls of the cavities 303 will be line with a magnet/magnetic material. Preferably, lightweight magnets/magnetic materials are utilized so as to minimize the weight of the lighter. The cavities 303 are designed to engage a connector as described and shown herein with respect to FIGS. 9 and 10.

Referring to FIGS. 17-23, connectors for use with the various embodiments of the invention set forth above are shown. All of the connectors shown in FIGS. 17-23 are suitable for use with any of the embodiments shown in FIGS. 9-16. Alternative embodiments of the connectors shown in FIGS. 17-22 will be of different shapes at the bottom portion 401, as described herein, so as to engage lighters having different shaped cavities.

Referring specifically to FIG. 23 a means of connection comprising an adhesive strip 601 and a magnet or magnetic material 603 is shown. The adhesive strip 601 is applied to a surface, such as a piece of furniture, a wall, etc. The magnet/magnetic material 603 is then adhered to the adhesive strip 601. The magnet/magnetized material 603 will then magnetically adhere to a lighter 605 having a magnet/magnetic material disposed therein. This means of connection is suitable for use with any of the embodiments discussed herein.

Referring to FIGS. 24-26, yet another embodiment is shown. In this embodiment at least one magnet or magnetic material 503 is disposed within a lighter 501. Proper magnets/magnetic materials for use with this embodiment will be well known to those having skill in the art. As shown in FIGS. 24-26, this embodiment encompasses lighters of any size and/or shape. In the embodiments shown the magnets/magnetic materials 503 are disposed in the centers of the respective lighters 501. In alternative embodiments the magnets/magnetic materials 503 will be disposed at different locations within the lighter depending on the embodiment. The magnets/magnetic materials are selected and positioned so that their magnetic properties are not diminished by the outer surface of the lighter in which they are disposed.

In yet additional alternative embodiments, multiple magnets/magnetic materials will be used. As shown, the magnets/magnetic materials 503 will be of different sizes and or shapes, such as cylindrical, square, etc. depending on the embodiment.

Referring to FIGS. 27-29, an additional embodiment incorporates a magnet/magnetic material 603 as a thin layer disposed beneath the outer surface of a lighter 601. Alternative embodiments will utilize different thicknesses of magnets/magnetic materials. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 27 the magnet/magnetic material 603 is a strip disposed along a length or section of the lighter 601. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 28 the magnet/magnetic material 603 is disposed around a portion of the perimeter of the lighter 601. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 29 the magnet/magnetic material 603 is disposed around the entire perimeter of the lighter 601.

Referring now to FIG. 30 an embodiment of the magnetic lighter of the present invention 701 is shown attached to a clip 703, which is in turn attached to the rearview mirror 705 of an automobile. In one embodiment a magnet disposed within the lighter 701 attracts the clip 703 directly. In an alternative embodiment, the clip is configured with a pin which magnetically engages a cavity of the lighter 701 as shown and discussed herein with respect to FIGS. 13-16.

Referring to FIG. 31, a lighter 801 and clip 803 combination is used to attach the lighter 801 to a package of cigarettes 805. The clip 803 is configured with a pin which magnetically engages a cavity of the lighter 801 as shown and discussed herein with respect to FIGS. 13-16.

Referring to FIG. 32 an embodiment of the magnetic lighter of the present invention 901 is shown attached to a cane 903. For canes made of a magnetic material, the lighter 901 will attach directly to the cane. For canes made of a nonmagnetic material, the lighter attaches to a sleeve 905 which fits over the cane. In one embodiment, the lighter 901 attaches to the sleeve directly. In another embodiment the sleeve 905 is configured with a pin which magnetically engages a cavity of the lighter 901 as shown and discussed herein with respect to FIGS. 13-16.

FIGS. 33-49 show different embodiments of the magnetic lighter disclosed herein attached to various objects. It should be understood that the embodiments of the magnetic lighter are capable of engaging any object capable of magnetic attraction and that the objects depicted in FIGS. 33-39 are illustrative only.

Although preferred embodiments of the invention have been illustrated in the accompanying Drawings and described in the foregoing Detailed Description, it will be understood that the invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed, but is capable of numerous rearrangements, modifications, and substitutions of parts and elements without departing from the spirit of the invention.

Claims

1. A magnetic lighter comprising: a lighter; anda magnet disposed within the lighter.

2. A magnetic lighter comprising: a lighter;at least one cavity disposed within the lighter wherein the at least one cavity is capable of magnetically engaging a connector;at least one magnet disposed within the lighter relative to the at least one cavity disposed within the lighter.

3. A magnetic cap configured to fit over the bottom portion of a lighter comprising: a magnet disposed within the cap; anda cavity disposed within the cap relative to the magnet wherein the cavity is capable of magnetically engaging a connector.