Planar candlewick with engraved reinforcement

Abstract

The candlewick comprises a sheet comprising wood, wood-like matter and / or cellulosic fibers and an engraved reinforcement region, the engraved reinforcement region being a region on a surface of the sheet in which material of the sheet has been removed. The material may be removed by laser engraving. The ratio of the width of the engraved reinforcement region to the width of the sheet may be 1: 3 to 1: 8. The width of the engraved reinforcement region may be from 0.075 to 0.175 inches. A method of making a candlewick includes laser engraving a planar workpiece to remove material from a surface of the workpiece, forming an engraved reinforcement region, and laser cutting the workpiece to form a sheet including the engraved reinforcement region.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to planar candle wicks with engraved enhancements for candles and other lighting devices, candles and other lighting devices employing such wicks, and methods of making such wicks, candles, and other lighting devices. Background Art

[0002] The "background" description provided herein is intended to present the disclosure in general terms. To the extent described in this background section, the work of the presently named inventors and aspects of the description that may not have constituted prior art at the time of filing are not admitted, either explicitly or implicitly, as prior art with respect to the present disclosure.

[0003] A candle may include a combustible wick embedded in wax or other flammable solid material (such as animal fat, etc.), which provides light and, in some cases, fragrance. Candles can also be used to provide heat or timekeeping. Candle wicks are usually made of braided cotton and maintain the flame of the candle. The candle wick works by capillary action, transporting (or "wicking") the molten fuel to the flame. When the molten fuel (such as molten wax) reaches the flame, the fuel evaporates and burns. The candle wick affects the way the candle burns. Important characteristics of a candle wick include diameter, rigidity, fire resistance and tethering.

[0004] Candles can present safety issues, particularly regarding fire hazards and burns to users. In light of these issues, efforts have been made to test various aspects of candle combustion, including, for example, stability, burn time, anomalies, smoke / flare, sputtering, spillage, re-ignition, flame height, afterglow, external surface temperature (thermocouple), direct flame impingement, pool temperature, pool uniformity, pool diameter, carbon deposition, and soot emissions. These parameters contribute not only to candle safety but also to improving the performance and aesthetic characteristics of candles.

[0005] For the past century, candle wicks have been braided or woven. This traditional wick can be woven from a variety of fibers or silk-like yarns. The most commonly used yarn is cotton, although other natural fibers such as rayon, nylon, and hemp are also used. Braided candle wicks can be produced in a variety of sizes, shapes, and structures to achieve the desired performance (flame height, wax pool size, self-trimming) and processing (stability, self-support) requirements. The appropriate wick selection for a specific candle includes the braid type, core body, size (diameter or width), and wick density. Even if the wick selection is limited to braided candle wicks, there are many different types of braided candle wicks to choose from.

[0006] A recent development in candle design and manufacturing involves the use of flat wicks in candles. Such flat wicks can be made from wood, wood-like materials, semi-wood materials, cellulose materials, and other harder materials. Compared to existing braided wicks, such flat wicks can provide improved capillary flow and increased functional surface area. As a result, such flat wicks can burn efficiently in candles without producing undesirable smoke and carbon heads. In addition, such flat wicks can produce a stable and uniform wax pool diameter. Due to the advantages of the material and shape of such flat wicks, the physical shape of the flame can be different from that of candles using existing braided wicks. Furthermore, such flat wicks offer decorative possibilities not available with existing braided wicks and can produce sounds when burning, such as a crackling sound similar to the sound of burning wood in a fireplace. Such flat wicks and candles using them are described, for example, in U.S. Patent / Publication Serial Nos. 9,410,696, 9,261,275, D740,461, 9,039,409, 8,961,171, D705,459, D678,558, 8,348,662, D644,360, D644,359, D643,554, 2016 / 0298837, 2012 / 0225392, 2011 / 0027737, 2011 / 0027736, 2011 / 0027735, 2011 / 0024945, 2005 / 0037308, and 2004 / 0009447. The disclosures of each of the above patents and patent application publications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0007] A subsequent variation of this flat candle wick is a wooden candle wick, comprising a wooden strip, a reinforcing member, which may also be made of wood, and a means for attaching the reinforcing member to the wooden strip. For example, U.S. Patents / Publication Serial Nos. 9,816,053, 9,796,946, 9,388,365, 9,120,995, D715,989, D708,777, 8,708,694, D669,615, D663,450, 2016 / 0281031, 2016 / 0272923, 2016 / 0272922, 2015 / 0322379, 2012 / 0064467, and 2008 / 0153046 describe such flat candle wicks and candles using them. The disclosures of each of the above patents and patent application publications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0008] Another variation of a planar candle wick is one comprising a planar body, wherein the wick is modified by cutting, engraving, printing, dyeing, or the like to enhance the safety, performance, and aesthetics of the wick and candles employing such wicks. For example, U.S. Publication Serial No. 2021 / 0033278 describes such planar candle wicks and candles employing such wicks. The disclosure of the aforementioned patent application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0009] While the above-described flat wicks and subsequent variations represent a design leap forward over previously described braided wicks, there remains a need for improved safety and performance characteristics of candle wicks and candles employing such wicks.

[0010] In view of the above, an object of the present disclosure is to provide planar candle wicks with carved enhancements for candles and other lighting devices, candles and other lighting devices using such wicks, and methods of making such wicks, candles, and other lighting devices having advantageous properties. Summary of the Invention

[0011] The present disclosure is the result of the inventor's efforts to create a candle wick that has more stable burning properties than known flat wicks and flat wicks with reinforcements.

[0012] A single-ply flat wick is typically a flat piece of wood that can be supplied in a range of thicknesses, lengths and widths. Single-ply wicks are best suited for softer waxes, i.e. wax blends that contain more paraffin, petroleum jelly or coconut wax, and therefore have a lower melting point.

[0013] A reinforced flat wick is typically a flat piece of wood, available in a range of thicknesses, lengths, and widths, with smaller strips of wood glued to it. Reinforced flat wicks are better suited for wax blends higher in natural ingredients, such as soy, palm oil, stearic acid, beeswax, and pillared paraffin. Because of the smaller strips, the wick generates additional heat, which is distributed around the diameter of the candle, creating a larger melt pool.

[0014] The present disclosure relates to a planar candle wick with a carved enhancement. In one embodiment, the candle wick is a flat wood strip from which material has been removed by laser engraving. The area of ​​material removed, the carved enhancement, has predetermined dimensions and is positioned at a predetermined location on the planar wood strip. In one embodiment, the carved enhancement is thinner than the planar wood strip and extends along the length of one surface.

[0015] It has been found that candle wicks with engraved enhancements are suitable for a wide range of wax mixtures. Due to the channels or paths along the surface of the candle wick, the fuel (liquid wax) can be better absorbed. In a single-layer flat candle wick, the fuel must follow the natural channels of the wood, which is not necessarily the most efficient path to the top of the candle wick. Without being limited to a particular theory, it is believed that the engraved enhancement acts as a distribution conduit, allowing the fuel to reach the top edge of the candle wick directly. Therefore, the fuel continuously flows to the location on the candle wick where combustion occurs, so the flame height is more stable, and thus, the combustion rate is also more stable. In addition, less smoke / soot is generated. In an embodiment where laser engraving is performed, the laser that dries the wood and the engraved microscopic pattern may provide a clearer path for fuel transfer.

[0016] The more efficient and stable burn exhibited by the planar candle wicks with sculpted enhancements according to the present disclosure improves safety and performance when the wicks are used in candles.

[0017] According to a first aspect, the present invention relates to a candle wick comprising: a sheet comprising at least one selected from wood, wood-like substances and cellulose fibers; and a carving enhancement area, which is an area on the surface of the sheet in which material of the sheet has been removed. The sheet has a thickness, a height and a width, the thickness being the minimum dimension of the sheet. The carving enhancement area has a depth, a height and a width, the depth being the minimum dimension of the carving enhancement area. When the candle wick is set in a candle, the height of the sheet and the height of the carving enhancement area extend in a vertical direction. The depth of the carving enhancement area is the distance that the carving enhancement area extends into the thickness of the sheet, the depth of the carving enhancement area being less than the thickness of the sheet. The height of the carving enhancement area is the maximum dimension of the carving enhancement area. The ratio of the width of the carving enhancement area to the width of the sheet is 1:3 to 1:8.

[0018] According to a second aspect, the present disclosure relates to a candle wick comprising: a sheet comprising at least one selected from wood, wood-like materials, and cellulose fibers; and an engraving enhancement area, which is an area on the surface of the sheet in which material of the sheet has been removed by laser engraving. The sheet has a thickness, a height, and a width, with the thickness being the minimum dimension of the sheet. The engraving enhancement area has a depth, a height, and a width, with the depth being the minimum dimension of the engraving enhancement area. When the candle wick is set in a candle, the height of the sheet and the height of the engraving enhancement area extend in a vertical direction. The depth of the engraving enhancement area is the distance the engraving enhancement area extends into the thickness of the sheet, the depth of the engraving enhancement area being less than the thickness of the sheet. The height of the engraving enhancement area is the maximum dimension of the engraving enhancement area. The width of the engraving enhancement area is 0.075 to 0.175 inches.

[0019] According to a third aspect, the present disclosure relates to a method for manufacturing a plurality of candle wicks, each comprising a sheet and a sculptured reinforcement region in which material of the sheet has been removed. The method comprises: laser engraving a planar workpiece to remove material from a surface of the workpiece at multiple locations to form a plurality of sculptured reinforcement regions; and laser cutting the workpiece to form a plurality of sheets, each sheet comprising a sculptured reinforcement region. The workpiece comprises at least one selected from wood, a wood-like material, and cellulose fiber. Each of the plurality of sheets has a thickness, a height, and a width, with the thickness being the smallest dimension of the sheet. Each sculptured reinforcement region has a depth, a height, and a width, with the depth being the smallest dimension of the sculptured reinforcement region. When the candle wick is positioned in a candle, the height of each sheet and the height of each sculptured reinforcement region extend in a vertical direction. The depth of each sculptured reinforcement region is the distance that the sculptured reinforcement region extends into the thickness of the sheet, with the depth of each sculptured reinforcement region being less than the thickness of the sheet including the sculptured reinforcement region. The height of the sculptured reinforcement region is the largest dimension of the sculptured reinforcement region. The ratio of the width of each sculptured reinforcement region to the width of each sheet is between 1:3 and 1:8.

[0020] The above paragraphs are provided as a general introduction and are not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] A more complete understanding of the present disclosure and many of its attendant advantages will be readily obtained by referring to the following detailed description, which will be readily understood when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0022] FIG1( a ) is a perspective view of an embodiment of an exemplary planar candle wick having a carved enhancement according to the present disclosure;

[0023] FIG1( b ) is a front view of an embodiment of an exemplary planar candle wick having a carved enhancement according to the present disclosure;

[0024] FIG1( c ) is a top or bottom view of an embodiment of an exemplary planar candle wick having a carved enhancement according to the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 2 is a schematic elevational view of an embodiment of an exemplary planar candle wick having a sculpture enhancement according to the present disclosure, wherein an enlarged view of an edge of the sculpture enhancement and an enlarged view of a spot forming the sculpture enhancement are provided;

[0026] FIG3( a ) is a top view of an embodiment of an exemplary candle according to the present disclosure, the candle including a planar wick with a carved enhancement;

[0027] FIG3( b ) is a perspective view of an embodiment of an exemplary candle according to the present disclosure, the candle including a planar wick with a carved enhancement; and

[0028] Figure 4 is a photograph of an embodiment of an exemplary flat candle wick with a carved enhancement according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all embodiments of the disclosure are shown.

[0030] As used herein, the terms "a" and "an" have the meaning of "one or more." Furthermore, in the description of the present disclosure, if a numerical limit or range is specified, the endpoints are included unless otherwise stated. Furthermore, all values ​​and subranges within a numerical limit or range (including subranges excluding the endpoints) are expressly included as if explicitly written out.

[0031] As used herein, the term "optional" or "optionally" means that the subsequently described event can or may not occur, or the subsequently described ingredient may or may not be present (eg, 0 weight percent (wt %)).

[0032] The term "comprising," which is an open-ended term synonymous with terms such as includes, contains, or having, is used herein to claim aspects of the present invention that may include additional steps, components, functionality, and / or structures. The term "consisting essentially of" is used herein to claim aspects of the present invention as well as additional, uncited steps or components that do not materially affect the basic and novel properties of the planar wicks, candles, or other light-emitting devices according to the present disclosure (as claimed or obtained by the claimed methods). The basic and novel properties of the present disclosure include the ability of the planar wicks to produce higher flame heights, hotter flames, wider wax pools, and / or greater consistency of the foregoing properties from wick to wick as compared to known planar wicks. The term "consisting of" is used to claim aspects of the present invention that include only those features expressly recited in the claims, thereby excluding other steps or components not expressly or inherently included in the claims.

[0033] The following discussion is directed to planar candle wicks with sculpted enhancements and candles incorporating such wicks. However, the planar candle wicks with sculpted enhancements described herein may also be used in other lighting devices, particularly lanterns or lamps that use liquid fuel rather than solid fuel at room temperature. In such embodiments, the composition and structure of the planar candle wicks with sculpted enhancements described below may be modified to ensure a safe, continuous flame when the wick is lit.

[0034] In various exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure relates to planar wicks with carved enhancements for candles, candles employing such wicks, and methods of making such wicks and candles.

[0035] It is expressly intended that the various wick and candle features described herein may be used interchangeably and in combination. That is, within the scope of materials, structures, and / or dimensions of an embodiment, it is expressly intended that such parameters may be appropriately substituted for use in other embodiments. The inventors have contemplated such combinations and intend that they be included in this disclosure, even if not expressly stated.

[0036] FIG1(a), FIG1(b) and FIG1(c) are various views of an exemplary planar candle wick having a sculpture enhancement portion according to the present disclosure. As shown in FIG1(a), FIG1(b) and FIG1(c), a planar candle wick 100 has a sculpture enhancement portion 110 formed on its surface.

[0037] Figure 2 The planar candle wick 100 and the engraved enhancement 110 are shown in greater detail in a partially enlarged schematic view. Figure 2 A first magnified portion 120 in FIG. 1 depicts the edge of the engraved portion 110 (i.e., the boundary between the area on the planar wick 100 where the engraved portion 110 is present and the area on the planar wick 100 where the engraved portion 110 is not present). A second magnified portion 130 shows details of the engraved portion 110, including spots 140 (e.g., spots formed by a laser) that collectively form the engraved portion.

[0038] In various exemplary embodiments, a candle wick according to the present disclosure comprises a sheet of material comprising at least one selected from wood, a wood-like substance, and a cellulose fiber, and a carving enhancement region, the enhancement region being a region on the surface of the sheet in which material of the sheet has been removed. In embodiments, the sheet has a thickness, a height, and a width, with the thickness being the minimum dimension of the sheet. In embodiments, the carving enhancement region has a depth, a height, and a width, with the depth being the minimum dimension of the carving enhancement region. In embodiments, when the wick is set in a candle, the height of the sheet and the height of the carving enhancement region extend in a vertical direction. In embodiments, the depth of the carving enhancement region is the distance the carving enhancement region extends into the thickness of the sheet, the depth of the carving enhancement region being less than the thickness of the sheet. In embodiments, the height of the carving enhancement region is the maximum dimension of the carving enhancement region.

[0039] As described above, an engraving enhancement area is an area on the surface of a sheet where material of the sheet has been removed. Although removal is mentioned, an engraving enhancement area may also constitute an area where material has been altered, such as by laser burning or chemical treatment. In the same way, grooves or channels formed by removing material, such as by engraving with a laser or pressing one or more blades into the surface of the sheet, can form an engraving enhancement area, and grooves or channels "filled" with modified material can also form an engraving enhancement area. In an embodiment, the engraving enhancement area is composed of a plurality of spots (e.g., formed by a laser) where material has been modified or removed (e.g., 125 to 1000 dots per inch (DPI), or any sub-range thereof). The engraving enhancement area is typically rectangular, as shown in Figures 1(b) and Figure 4 As shown, it is significantly narrower than the sheet, but has almost the same height. In an embodiment, the height of the engraving enhancement area is slightly less than the height of the sheet, so there is an unengraved area above and / or below the engraving enhancement area. Figure 4 As shown, the engraved enhancement area can appear as a slightly darker shaded strip on the candle wick. Figure 4 In the case of the wood sheet shown, the wood grain may still be clearly discernible in the engraved enhancement area. When the engraved enhancement area is formed by laser engraving, it may consist of many spots or dots of material that have been removed or changed at a microscopic level, such as Figure 2 As shown. The depth of the engraving enhancement region is less than the thickness of the sheet material in which it is formed. In embodiments, the depth of the engraving enhancement region can be 0.0001 to 0.005 inches. The depth of the engraving enhancement region can be 0.0001, 0.0005, 0.001, 0.005, 0.01 inches, or any subrange thereof in ten-thousandths or thousandths of an inch. The depth can be substantially the same or constant throughout the engraving enhancement region, or it can vary according to any of the ranges or subranges of depths described above.

[0040] In various exemplary embodiments, the ratio of the width of the engraving enhancement area to the width of the sheet is 1:3 to 1:8. The ratio of the width of the engraving enhancement area to the width of the sheet can be 1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 1:6, 1:7, 1:8, and all subranges therein. In other embodiments, the ratio of the width of the engraving enhancement area to the width of the sheet can include a wider range of ratios, such as 1:3 to 1:20, and all subranges therein.

[0041] In various exemplary embodiments, the width of the engraving enhancement region is 0.075 to 0.175 inches. The width of the engraving enhancement region is 0.075 inches, 0.1 inches, 0.125 inches, 0.15 inches, 0.175 inches, and all subranges therein in hundredths and thousandths of an inch. In other embodiments, the width of the engraving enhancement region may include a wider range of widths, such as 0.005 to 0.375 inches, and all subranges therein in hundredths and thousandths of an inch.

[0042] In various exemplary embodiments, the height of the engraving enhancement area is at least 80% of the height of the sheet.The engraving enhancement area can be 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 100%, and all percentage subranges therein.

[0043] In various exemplary embodiments, the engraved enhancement area is located in the middle third of the width of the sheet. In various exemplary embodiments, the candle wick includes a single engraved enhancement area on a single side of the sheet.

[0044] A planar candle wick according to the present disclosure preferably has a single engraved enhancement area having a width of approximately 0.1 inches formed on a single surface of the wick. However, the present disclosure expressly contemplates alternative configurations in which multiple separate engraved enhancement areas are formed on one or both sides of the sheet. For example, a planar candle wick may include multiple engraved enhancement areas, each having a width and / or a ratio of the width of the engraved enhancement area to the width of the sheet, as described above. A planar candle wick may include one, two, or three such engraved enhancement areas on one or both sides of the wick. While in, for example, FIG. 1( b) and FIG. Figure 4 In the embodiment of the present invention, the engraving enhancement areas are rectangular and arranged vertically, but each engraving enhancement area may be composed of multiple distinct lines, spots, or other shapes that together form the engraving enhancement area. In addition, the engraving enhancement area or its component lines may be curved, jagged, or wavy in appearance; however, in such cases, the height dimension is generally the dominant or largest dimension of the engraving enhancement area.

[0045] The planar wicks described herein are intended for use in candles and the like. When used in a candle, the wick is placed in a meltable fuel. Thus, the wick, when in use, typically has a height dimension corresponding to the height dimension of the candle. Similarly, a strictly or truly planar wick will have a width perpendicular to the height and a thickness, with the thickness being the smallest dimension of the wick. More general planar wicks (e.g., "X" wicks or "+" wicks) can be described by a total maximum width in a direction perpendicular to the height and a thickness corresponding to the smallest dimension of the planar member that is bent, curved, or combined to obtain the wick.

[0046] The planar wicks described herein can have any suitable combination of dimensions, and the dimensions of a particular embodiment are selected to produce the desired effects described herein in combination with the particular materials and other structural parameters. The wicks may have a thickness of up to 0.005 inches, 0.005 inches, 0.010 inches, 0.015 inches, 0.020 inches, 0.025 inches, 0.030 inches, 0.035 inches, 0.040 inches, 0.045 inches, 0.050 inches, 0.060 inches, 0.070 inches, 0.080 inches, 0.090 inches, 0.1 inches, 0.11 inches, 0.12 inches, 0.125 inches, 0.125 inches, or more, and all subranges therein in hundredths and thousandths of an inch. Preferably, the wick has a thickness of 0.010 to 0.045 inches. The wick has a width of up to 0.0625 inches, 0.0625 inches, 0.125 inches, 0.25 inches, 0.375 inches, 0.5 inches, 1.0 inches, 1.5 inches, 2.0 inches, 2.5 inches, 3.0 inches, 3.5 inches, 4.0 inches, 4.5 inches, 5.0 inches, 5.5 inches, 6.0 inches, 6.5 inches, 7.0 inches, 7.5 inches, 8.0 inches, 8.5 inches, 9.0 inches, 9.0 inches, or more, and all subranges in tenths of an inch therein. Preferably, the wick has a width of 0.25 to 6 inches. The wick has a height of up to 1 inch, 1 inch, 2 inches, 3 inches, 4 inches, 5 inches, 6 inches, 7 inches, 8 inches, 9 inches, 10 inches, 10 inches, or more, and all subranges in tenths of an inch therein. Preferably, the wick has a height of 1 to 8 inches. The wick width and candle width can be described as ratios and ranges of ratios of their respective widths, based on any of the width values ​​described herein. Furthermore, in embodiments, the wick and candle widths can be variable. For example, the wick and candle widths can taper toward the top, taper toward the bottom, taper toward the middle, or taper at both the top and bottom. In a preferred embodiment, the wick width varies along the candle's height dimension, along with the candle width.

[0047] In embodiments, the material and dimensions of the flat wick are selected to enhance the functionality of the candle and its contribution to the ambiance. In embodiments, the wick is made of a wood, semi-wood, or wood-like material that provides a pleasant crackling sound when lit and burns more completely than traditional wicks, producing less carbon and soot. Processed woods such as particleboard and fiberboard can also be used. In general, wood with a relatively straight, fine grain and no cracks makes for an effective wick. Compared to traditional wicks that require periodic trimming, flat wick maintenance can be performed with or without the use of any tools. Instead, the user can use their fingers to remove the burnt edges of the flat wick before relighting. In various exemplary embodiments, the wick is formed from single-layer, double-layer, multi-layer, multi-fiber, dyed, printed, die-cut, and / or laser-cut material. Alternatively or in addition, embedded minerals, oils, or oxidizing enhancers may be used.

[0048] In an embodiment, woods such as poplar, cherry, maple, wenge, oak, rosewood, and bamboo can be used as materials for preparing candle wicks. Preferably, heartwood is used. Hard, non-brittle, and tightly textured wood is preferred. Certain species may be preferred in specific applications because their higher moisture or oil content may affect the characteristics of the flame and / or other properties, such as producing an ideal crackling sound when burning. In addition to the preferred woods mentioned above, other woods such as walnut, ash, birch, pear, sapele, pommele, zebrawood, lacewood, mahogany, pine, teak, ebony, and various burls can also be used as candle wick materials. Wood with various moisture contents can be used. In particular, wood having a moisture content of up to 1%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%, 15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, 20%, above 20%, and all subranges in tenths and hundredths therein can be used to form the candle wicks described herein.

[0049] In various exemplary embodiments, the sheet material comprises wood, and the grain direction of the wood is substantially aligned with the height of the sheet material and / or the height of the engraved enhancement area.

[0050] Plane candle wicks, including semi-wood or wood-like materials, are particularly ideal whether used alone or in combination with wood. A layer or portion of wood can be combined with a layer or portion of, for example, wood-like materials, semi-wooden materials, cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, cotton fibers, hemp fibers, coconut fibers, flax and / or protein fibers. Alternatively, cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, cotton fibers, hemp fibers, coconut fibers, flax and / or protein fibers can be used to prepare candle wicks without the need for wood. Materials other than ordinary wood or pure wood as described herein can be used in any suitable form. For example, solid material can be cut into sheets so as to be further processed as described herein. As another example, fibers or particulate materials can be pressed into sheets so as to be further processed as described herein, with or without adhesives or other matrix materials. In addition, two, three or more sheets of material as described herein or otherwise obtained can be laminated together, for example, using adhesives. Such laminates can include multiple layers of the same or different materials and layers of different sizes.

[0051] In particular, cotton or cotton-like materials can be incorporated into the structure of a planar candle wick. One example is to sandwich a piece of cotton between wood slices and seal the sandwich with wax or adhesive. Another example is to create a fiberboard of wood particles or powder mixed with a small amount of cotton. Yet another example is to superimpose one or more layers of cotton-like material onto one or more layers of wood-like material. The layers in such embodiments can vary in width, height, and thickness, or they can be the same.

[0052] Although the wicks described herein are referred to as planar wicks, they need not be strictly or truly planar. Rather, it is expressly intended that, unless described as "strictly" or "truly" planar, the term "planar" includes planar members that are bent or curved, or composites of multiple planar members. Strictly or truly planar wicks can have a straight shape when viewed from above, while bent or curved planar wicks can have a circular or "S" shape when viewed from above. Wicks that include a composite of multiple planar members may have an "X," "+," or cross shape when viewed from above. Thus, the planar wicks described herein may include planar members that are bent, curved, or multiple combinations that produce any alphanumeric or symbolic shape when viewed from above. Similarly, sheets of material may be strictly or truly planar, bent or curved, or composites of multiple sheets.

[0053] The planar candle wicks described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are generally planar or sheet-like, or are made from planar or sheet-like materials. As described in further detail below, these materials can be processed into the precise shapes described herein using techniques such as die cutting and laser cutting. Furthermore, the candle wick can be cut through its entire thickness or engraved only partially, for example, using a laser.

[0054] 3( a) and 3( b) are two views of an exemplary candle including a planar wick with a carved enhancement according to the present disclosure. Candle 200 includes a meltable fuel body 250 disposed in a container 260. Planar wick 100 including a carved enhancement 110 is disposed in meltable fuel body 255 such that the top of wick 100 extends above the top surface of meltable fuel 250 disposed in container 260.

[0055] In an embodiment, a candle comprises a body of fusible fuel and a planar wick. The fusible fuel is solid at room temperature and emits light when vaporized and ignited (i.e., when delivered by a ignited wick embedded in the body of the fusible fuel). Exemplary fusible fuels include fusible, flammable solid waxes and wax-like materials, such as petroleum (paraffin) waxes, mineral (lignite) waxes, synthetic waxes (polyethylene or Fischer Tropsch), natural waxes (vegetable or animal, such as beeswax, carnauba, candelilla, soy, coconut, palm, apricot), microcrystalline waxes, polymers, polyolesters, clear candle waxes or gels (ester-terminated polyamides (ETPA) or ETPA-based materials), and other fuels known to those skilled in the art. A single fusible fuel or a mixture of fusible fuels may be used. In particularly preferred embodiments, one or more of a paraffin / petrolatum wax mixture, a soybean / paraffin / petrolatum wax mixture, and pure soybean wax may be used as the meltable fuel.

[0056] In an embodiment, the meltable fuel may be modified with additives to change the hardness, color, burn rate, and / or aroma of the meltable fuel. Exemplary additives include stearic acid, ultraviolet (UV) inhibitors, polyethylene, essential oils, and colorants such as pigments and / or dyes.

[0057] In an embodiment, the candle comprises a free-standing body of meltable fuel. The shape of the free-standing body of meltable fuel is not particularly limited, and any shape that can be appropriately molded is acceptable.

[0058] In an alternative embodiment, the candle includes a meltable fuel contained in a container. There are no particular limitations on the size or shape of the container or the material from which it is made. In an embodiment, the container is made of glass, ceramic, metal, concrete, or plastic. The glass, ceramic, metal, concrete, or plastic may be natural, transparent, or colored. In an embodiment, the container is a resealable jar. In an embodiment, the container is cylindrical or prismatic with an open top. The cylinder may be a straight cylinder, an oblique cylinder, or an irregular cylinder having a circular, elliptical, or other cross-section. The prism may be a straight prism, an oblique prism, or an irregular prism having a triangular, square, rectangular, or other polygonal cross-section.

[0059] Whether provided as a self-supporting body of meltable fuel or meltable fuel in a container, a candle can generally be defined by the width and height of the configuration in use. Candles as described herein can have a width of up to 1 inch, 1 inch, 2 inches, 3 inches, 4 inches, 5 inches, 6 inches, 7 inches, 8 inches, 9 inches, 10 inches, 10 inches, or more, and all subranges thereof in tenths and hundredths of an inch. Preferably, the candle has a width of 1 to 10 inches. The candle can have a height of up to 2 inches, 2 inches, 3 inches, 4 inches, 5 inches, 6 inches, 7 inches, 8 inches, 9 inches, 10 inches, 10 inches, or more, and all subranges thereof in tenths and hundredths of an inch. Preferably, the candle has a height of 2 to 10 inches.

[0060] When lit, the candle forms a wax pool, the size of which will vary depending on the type of wax and the type and configuration of the wick. In a preferred embodiment, the wax should liquefy to the exterior of the candle and the flame height should be between 0.05 and 3.0 inches, including all tenths and hundredths of an inch subranges therein.

[0061] In an embodiment, a candle can be made using a container or mold. In an embodiment, a planar wick is placed in the container or mold and molten meltable fuel is added thereto. The wick can be positioned with or without a support. The support will include multiple contact points on a flat surface or on its bottom to stably hold the wick upright in the absence of meltable fuel and / or when melted fuel is poured around the wick. The support will also include structure for holding the wick upright. For example, a double upright structure for grasping a generally planar or sheet-like wick, or a cup-like structure for holding a generally cylindrical wick. In an alternative embodiment, the molten fuel can be added to the mold or container before the wick is positioned.

[0062] In various exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure relates to a method for manufacturing a plurality of candle wicks, each comprising a sheet and a sculptured enhancement region in which material of the sheet has been removed. The method comprises: laser engraving a planar workpiece to remove material from a surface of the workpiece at multiple locations to form the plurality of sculptured enhancement regions; and laser cutting the workpiece to form a plurality of sheets, each sheet comprising a sculptured enhancement region. The candle wicks and the sculptured enhancement of each wick can be formed from any material and have any of the dimensions described above, or any combination thereof.

[0063] The laser engraving and laser cutting of the methods described herein are performed using a laser machine. The type and manufacturer of the laser machine are not particularly limited, as long as the laser machine is capable of: (i) engraving the sheet material according to a precise pattern to remove or alter some of the sheet material's surface to form the engraved enhancements described herein; and (ii) cutting the sheet material according to a precise pattern to form the planar candle wicks described herein. It is contemplated that these two functions could be performed using different machines. However, most commercially available laser machines can perform both functions.

[0064] In an embodiment, the cutting can be done before the engraving. However, as a practical matter, it is simpler to engrave one large sheet and then cut the wicks from the sheet to include the engraved reinforcements rather than handling and engraving many smaller wicks.

[0065] As mentioned above, any suitable laser machine can be used. Exemplary laser types are carbon dioxide (CO2) lasers (gas lasers), fiber lasers, and neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) lasers, neodymium-doped yttrium vanadate (Nd:YVO) lasers (crystal lasers), but CO2 lasers are preferred.

[0066] Suitable lasers are typically computer-controlled, allowing precise control of engraving and cutting geometries. Each laser machine has unique settings that can be manipulated to create a flat candle wick with engraving enhancements, as described herein. Exemplary settings include resolution, power, speed, and frequency. Other optional features and settings can be employed to achieve the wick geometries and features described herein.

[0067] In various exemplary embodiments, the workpiece is a sheet of wood, i.e., a wood veneer. The sheet of wick material can desirably have a thickness of 0.010 to 0.06 inches (i.e., any of the wick thicknesses described herein). Preferably, the wood is a hardwood with a substantially straight grain. More preferably, the wood is cherry, maple, or poplar.

[0068] In an embodiment, the workpiece may be dried before or after laser engraving and / or laser cutting. The drying method is not particularly limited.

[0069] In an embodiment, the workpiece can be dyed before or after laser engraving and / or laser cutting. The dyeing method is not particularly limited. For example, the workpiece (or candle wick product) can be dyed in any manner described in U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 281,797, filed on November 22, 2021, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In an embodiment, the entire workpiece is dyed a single color before laser engraving and laser cutting. In an alternative embodiment, the candle wicks obtained by the methods described herein are dyed in batches.

[0070] In various exemplary embodiments, laser engraving the workpiece further includes engraving a decorative image (eg, an alphanumeric or symbolic shape) on the surface of the workpiece.

[0071] The process for preparing a planar candle wick according to the present disclosure may further include applying a bend or curve to the candle wick after cutting. In an embodiment, the bent or curved candle wick has an S-shape or other alphanumeric or symbolic shape when viewed from above. In an embodiment, multiple candle wicks may be cut and / or assembled together, for example, to form a +, x, or cross shape when viewed from above.

[0072] In various exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure relates to the following and all combinations thereof:

[0073] 1. A candle wick comprising:

[0074] a sheet comprising at least one selected from wood, wood-like substances, and cellulose fibers; and

[0075] engraved enhancement areas, which are areas on the surface of the sheet where material of the sheet has been removed;

[0076] in:

[0077] The sheet has thickness, height and width, with thickness being the smallest dimension of the sheet;

[0078] The engraved enhancement area has a depth, a height, and a width, the depth being the smallest dimension of the engraved enhancement area;

[0079] When the wick is set in the candle, the height of the sheet and the height of the engraved reinforcement area extend in a vertical direction;

[0080] The depth of the engraved enhancement area is the distance the engraved enhancement area extends into the thickness of the sheet material, the depth of the engraved enhancement area being less than the thickness of the sheet material;

[0081] The height of the engraving enhancement area is the largest dimension of the engraving enhancement area; and

[0082] The ratio of the width of the engraved enhancement area to the width of the sheet is 1:3 to 1:8.

[0083] 2. A candle wick according to clause 1 or any clause appended thereto, wherein the height of the engraved reinforcement area is at least 80% of the height of the sheet.

[0084] 3. A candle wick according to clause 1 or any clause appended thereto, wherein the engraved enhancement area is located in the middle third of the width of the sheet.

[0085] 4. A candle wick according to item 1 or any item dependent thereon, wherein the candle wick comprises a single engraved reinforcement area on a single side of the sheet

[0086] 5. A candle wick according to clause 1 or any clause appended thereto, wherein the candle wick comprises a plurality of separate areas of engraved enhancement formed on one or both sides of the sheet.

[0087] 6. A candle wick according to clause 1 or any clause appended thereto, wherein the engraved reinforcement area is formed by laser engraving the sheet material.

[0088] 7. A candle wick as claimed in clause 1 or any clause appended thereto, wherein the carved enhancement area comprises a plurality of spots where material of the sheet has been removed.

[0089] 8. A candle wick according to item 1 or any item dependent thereon, wherein:

[0090] The height of the sheets ranges from 1 to 8 inches;

[0091] The width of the sheet is 0.125 to 6 inches;

[0092] The sheet has a thickness of 0.010 to 0.045 inches; and

[0093] The width of the engraved enhancement area is 0.05 to 0.25 inches.

[0094] 9. A candle wick according to clause 1 or any clause appended thereto, wherein the sheet material comprises cherry wood.

[0095] 10. A candle wick as claimed in clause 1 or any clause appended thereto, wherein the sheet material comprises maple wood.

[0096] 11. A candle wick according to clause 1 or any clause appended thereto, wherein the sheet material comprises poplar wood.

[0097] 12. A candle wick as claimed in clause 1 or any clause appended thereto, wherein the sheet material comprises wood which has been stained.

[0098] 13. A candle wick according to item 1 or any item dependent thereon, wherein:

[0099] Sheet materials include wood;

[0100] The grain direction of the wood is roughly aligned with the height of the sheet.

[0101] 14. A candle comprising:

[0102] A candle wick according to item 1 or any item appended thereto; and

[0103] A body of meltable fuel.

[0104] 15. A candle as claimed in clause 14 or any clause appended thereto, wherein the wick is held upright in the body of meltable fuel by a holder.

[0105] 16. A candle according to clause 14 or any clause appended thereto, wherein the meltable fuel comprises natural wax.

[0106] 17. A candle according to clause 14 or any clause appended thereto, wherein the meltable fuel comprises a petroleum-based wax.

[0107] 18. The candle of clause 14 or any clause appended thereto, wherein the meltable fuel comprises a mixture of natural wax and petroleum-based wax.

[0108] 19. A candle as claimed in clause 14 or any clause appended thereto, wherein the body of meltable fuel is provided in a container.

[0109] 20. A candle wick comprising:

[0110] a sheet comprising at least one selected from wood, wood-like substances, and cellulose fibers; and

[0111] an engraved enhancement area, which is an area on the surface of the sheet in which material of the sheet is removed by laser engraving;

[0112] in:

[0113] The sheet has thickness, height and width, with thickness being the smallest dimension of the sheet;

[0114] The engraved enhancement area has a depth, a height, and a width, the depth being the smallest dimension of the engraved enhancement area;

[0115] When the wick is set in the candle, the height of the sheet and the height of the engraved reinforcement area extend in a vertical direction;

[0116] The depth of the engraved enhancement area is the distance the engraved enhancement area extends into the thickness of the sheet material, the depth of the engraved enhancement area being less than the thickness of the sheet material;

[0117] The height of the engraving enhancement area is the largest dimension of the engraving enhancement area; and

[0118] The width of the engraved enhancement area is 0.075 to 0.175 inches.

[0119] 21. A candle wick as claimed in clause 20 or any clause appended thereto, wherein the height of the engraved reinforcement area is at least 80% of the height of the sheet.

[0120] 22. A candle wick as claimed in clause 20 or any clause appended thereto, wherein the engraved enhancement area is located in the middle third of the width of the sheet.

[0121] 23. A candle wick as claimed in clause 20 or any clause appended thereto, wherein the candle wick comprises a single area of ​​engraved reinforcement on a single side of the sheet.

[0122] 24. A candle wick as claimed in clause 20 or any clause appended thereto, wherein the candle wick comprises a plurality of separate areas of engraved enhancement formed on one or both sides of the sheet.

[0123] 25. A candle wick as claimed in clause 20 or any clause appended thereto, wherein the sheet material comprises cherry wood.

[0124] 26. A candle wick according to clause 20 or any clause appended thereto, wherein the sheet material comprises maple wood.

[0125] 27. A candle wick according to clause 20 or any clause appended thereto, wherein the sheet material comprises poplar wood.

[0126] 28. A candle wick as claimed in clause 20 or any clause appended thereto, wherein the sheet material comprises wood which has been stained.

[0127] 29. A candle wick according to clause 20 or any clause dependent thereon, wherein:

[0128] Sheet materials include wood;

[0129] The grain direction of the wood is roughly aligned with the height of the sheet.

[0130] 30. A candle comprising:

[0131] A candle wick according to item 20 or any item appended thereto; and

[0132] A body of meltable fuel.

[0133] 31. A candle as claimed in clause 30 or any clause appended thereto, wherein the wick is held upright in the body of meltable fuel by a holder.

[0134] 32. A candle according to clause 30 or any clause appended thereto, wherein the meltable fuel comprises natural wax.

[0135] 33. The candle of clause 30 or any clause appended thereto, wherein the meltable fuel comprises a petroleum-based wax.

[0136] 34. The candle of clause 30 or any clause appended thereto, wherein the meltable fuel comprises a mixture of natural wax and petroleum-based wax.

[0137] 35. A method for making a plurality of candle wicks, each wick comprising a sheet material and a carved enhancement region in which material of the sheet material has been removed, the method comprising:

[0138] laser engraving a planar workpiece to remove material from a surface of the workpiece at a plurality of locations to form a plurality of engraved enhancement areas; and

[0139] laser cutting the workpiece to form a plurality of sheets, each sheet including an engraved reinforcement region;

[0140] in:

[0141] The workpiece includes at least one selected from wood, wood-like substances, and cellulose fibers;

[0142] Each of the plurality of sheets has a thickness, a height, and a width, the thickness being the smallest dimension of the sheet;

[0143] Each engraved enhancement region has a depth, a height, and a width, the depth being the smallest dimension of the engraved enhancement region;

[0144] The height of each sheet and the height of each engraved reinforcement area extend in a vertical direction when the wick is disposed in the candle;

[0145] The depth of each engraving enhancement region is the distance the engraving enhancement region extends into the thickness of the sheet material, the depth of the engraving enhancement region being less than the thickness of the sheet material including the engraving enhancement region;

[0146] The height of the engraving enhancement area is the largest dimension of the engraving enhancement area; and

[0147] The ratio of the width of each engraving enhancement area to the width of each sheet is 1:3 to 1:8.

[0148] 36. A method according to clause 35 or any clause appended thereto, wherein the height of each engraved enhancement area is at least 80% of the height of the sheet to which it is attached.

[0149] 37. A method according to clause 35 or any clause appended thereto, wherein each engraving enhancement area is located in the middle third of the width of the sheet having the engraving enhancement area.

[0150] 38. A method according to clause 35 or any clause appended thereto, wherein each candle wick comprises a single carved enhancement area on a single side of the sheet of material having the carved enhancement area.

[0151] 39. A method as claimed in clause 35 or any clause appended thereto, wherein each wick comprises a plurality of separate areas of engraved enhancement formed on one or both sides of the sheet.

[0152] 40. The method of clause 35 or any clause dependent thereon, wherein:

[0153] Each sheet is 1 to 8 inches high;

[0154] The width of each sheet ranges from 0.125 to 6 inches;

[0155] Each sheet has a thickness of 0.010 to 0.045 inches; and

[0156] Each engraved enhancement area has a width of 0.05 to 0.25 inches.

[0157] 41. The method of clause 35 or any clause appended thereto, wherein the workpiece comprises cherry wood.

[0158] 42. The method of clause 35 or any clause appended thereto, wherein the workpiece comprises maple wood.

[0159] 43. A method according to item 35 or any item appended thereto, wherein the workpiece comprises poplar wood.

[0160] 44. A method as described in clause 35 or any clause appended thereto, wherein the workpiece comprises stained wood.

[0161] 45. The method according to clause 35 or any clause appended thereto, wherein:

[0162] Workpieces include wood;

[0163] Laser cutting the workpiece includes forming each sheet so that the grain direction of the wood is substantially aligned with the height of the sheet.

[0164] 46. ​​The method of clause 35 or any clause appended thereto, wherein:

[0165] Laser engraving includes laser engraving using a CO2 laser; and

[0166] Laser cutting includes laser cutting using a CO2 laser.

[0167] Example

[0168] Production Example 1

[0169] Planar candle wicks with engraved enhancements were prepared by laser cutting and engraving cherry wood veneer 0.03 inches thick using a laser machine. Prior to laser cutting, the engraved enhancements were formed on the veneer so that each wick had an engraved enhancement centered on one surface. Each engraved enhancement was formed into a rectangular shape, slightly less than 2.75 inches in height and 0.1 inches in width, with the length and width of the engraved enhancement aligned with the length and width of the corresponding candle wick. Figure 4 is a photograph of a prepared flat candle wick with a carved enhancement.

[0170] Production Example 1A

[0171] Planar candle wicks with reinforcements were prepared by laser cutting cherry wood veneers 0.03 inches thick and cherry wood veneers 0.02 inches thick using a laser machine. The wicks were laser cut from the 0.03-inch veneer into rectangles 2.75 inches high and 0.5 inches wide. The reinforcements were cut from the 0.02-inch veneer into rectangles 2.75 inches high and 0.2 inches wide. Each reinforcement was applied to the corresponding candle wick with an adhesive so that the reinforcement of each candle wick was located at the center of one surface of the candle wick, and the length and width of the reinforcement were aligned with the length and width of the corresponding candle wick.

[0172] Production Example 1B

[0173] The flat candle wicks were prepared by laser cutting a cherry wood veneer with a thickness of 0.03 inches using a laser machine. The wicks were laser cut from the veneer into a rectangle with a height of 2.75 inches and a width of 0.5 inches.

[0174] Example 1

[0175] Three candles (samples 1, 2 and 3) were assembled in a container using a flat candle wick with a carved reinforcement from production example 1 and virgin coconut soy wax as a meltable fuel. The performance of the candle wicks was evaluated using a Candle Data Acquisition System (CDAS). The candles were lit and the flame height was measured continuously until each candle extinguished itself. The average flame height and the standard deviation of the flame height during the candle's life were measured. In this test, a flame height range of 0.5 to 0.75 inches was considered ideal and safe. In addition, a graph showing the flame height over time and a video showing the flame during the candle's life were observed. The results of the average flame height and the standard deviation of the flame height are shown in Table 1 below.

[0176] Comparative Example 1A

[0177] Three candles (Samples 1, 2, and 3) were assembled as described in Example 1, except that the planar candle wick with reinforcement from Production Example 1A was used as the candle wick.

[0178] Comparative Example 1B

[0179] Three candles (Samples 1, 2, and 3) were assembled as described in Example 1, except that the planar wick of Production Example 1C was used as the wick.

[0180] Example 2

[0181] Three candles (Samples 1, 2, and 3) were assembled as described in Example 1, except that soy wax blend was used as the meltable fuel.

[0182] Comparative Example 2A

[0183] Three candles (Samples 1, 2, and 3) were assembled as described in Example 2, except that the planar candle wick with reinforcement from Production Example 1A was used as the candle wick.

[0184] Comparative Example 2B

[0185] Three candles (Samples 1, 2, and 3) were assembled as described in Example 2, except that the planar wick of Production Example 1C was used as the wick.

[0186] Table 1 (all flame heights are in inches)

[0187]

[0188]

[0189] As shown in Table 1 above, when using virgin coconut soy wax or a soy wax blend as the meltable fuel, flat wicks with engraved enhancements exhibited lower standard deviations in flame height than flat wicks with enhancements and flat wicks. Furthermore, in addition to maintaining consistent flame height, the flat wicks with engraved enhancements had an ideal average flame height of approximately 0.75 inches. Looking at the flame height change over time graph, the flat wicks with engraved enhancements exhibited the least variation over the life of the candle and had the lowest flame height relative to the flat wicks with enhancements and flat wicks. Viewing the video results, the flat wicks with engraved enhancements exhibited the least variation in flame height, with maximum flame height generally remaining at a safe level.

[0190] When used with virgin coconut wax or soy wax blends, flat wicks with reinforcements produced the highest flame heights and the largest standard deviation in flame height. Looking at the flame height over time graph, flat wicks with reinforcements showed the greatest flame heights (over 1.6 inches) and the greatest variation (as low as 0.3 inches). Watching the video results, flat wicks with reinforcements demonstrated consistently high flame heights.

[0191] The flat wick, while showing relatively good average flame heights when used with either virgin coconut wax or soy wax blends, produced some very low flame heights early in the burn cycle when used with virgin coconut and very high flame heights when used with the soy blend.

[0192] The flat wick with the carved reinforcement exhibited a more stable and safer flame than both the flat wick and the flat wick with the reinforcement, even when the fusible fuel was different.

[0193] Production Example 2

[0194] Planar candle wicks with engraved enhancements were prepared by laser cutting and engraving cherry wood veneer 0.03 inches thick using a laser machine. The wicks were laser cut from the veneer into rectangular shapes with a height of 2.75 inches and a width of 0.375 inches. Prior to laser cutting, the engraved enhancements were formed on the veneer so that each wick had an engraved enhancement in the center of one surface. Each engraved enhancement was formed into a rectangle with a height of slightly less than 2.75 inches and a width of 0.1 inches, with the length and width of the engraved enhancement aligned with the length and width of the corresponding candle wick.

[0195] Production Example 3

[0196] A planar candle wick with an engraved enhancement was prepared as described in Production Example 2, except that the wick was laser cut from a thin sheet into a rectangle having a height of 2.75 inches and a width of 0.625 inches.

[0197] Production Example 4

[0198] A planar candle wick with an engraved enhancement was prepared as described in Production Example 2, except that a 0.4 inch thick cherry wood veneer was used and the wick was laser cut from the veneer into a rectangle 2.75 inches high and 0.7 inches wide.

[0199] Example 3

[0200] Six candles (samples 1 to 6) were assembled in a container using a flat candle wick with the engraved reinforcement of production example 2 as the candle wick and a paraffin / petroleum jelly wax mixture as the fusible fuel. The container was a cylindrical tin container with a diameter of 2.5 inches. In samples 4 to 6, spices were added to the fusible fuel. The candles were observed over 7 burn cycles, which alternated between 4 and 2 hours, and the average flame height of each burn cycle was measured. In this test, a flame height of less than 1 inch was considered safe, while a flame height of less than 0.5 inch was considered ideal. The results of the average flame height and the standard deviation of the flame height are shown in Table 2 below.

[0201] Example 4

[0202] Six candles (samples 1 to 6) were assembled in a container using a flat candle wick with the engraved reinforcement of production example 3 as a candle wick and a soybean / paraffin / vaseline wax mixture as a fusible fuel. The container was a cylindrical glass container with a diameter of 3.4 inches. In samples 4 to 6, spices were added to the fusible fuel. The candles were observed over 7 burning cycles, with the cycles alternating between 4 and 2 hours, and the average flame height of each burning cycle was measured. The results of the average flame height and the standard deviation of the flame height are shown in Table 2 below.

[0203] Example 5

[0204] Six candles (Samples 1 to 6) were assembled in a container using a flat candle wick with a carved reinforcement from Production Example 4 as the candle wick and natural (soy) wax as the meltable fuel. The container was a cylindrical glass container with a diameter of 3 inches. The candles were observed over 6 burn cycles, alternating between 2 and 4 hours, and the average flame height for each burn cycle was measured. The results for the average flame height and the standard deviation of the flame height are shown in Table 2 below.

[0205] Table 2 (all flame heights are in inches)

[0206]

[0207]

[0208] As shown in Table 2 above, a flat wick with a carved reinforcement made from cherry wood with a thickness of 0.03 inches and a width of 0.375 inches performed well in the paraffin / petroleum jelly wax blend. Flame heights averaged between 0.5 inches and 0.55 inches, with very low standard deviations. The flat wick with the carved reinforcement provided a consistently healthy flame during burning.

[0209] A flat wick with a carved reinforcement made of cherry wood with a thickness of 0.03 inches and a width of 0.625 inches (wider) performed well in the paraffin / petroleum jelly wax mixture. The flame height averaged approximately 0.53 inches with a low standard deviation. The flat wick with a carved reinforcement provided a consistently healthy flame during the burning process.

[0210] The flat wick with a carved reinforcement made of cherry wood with a thickness of 0.04 inches (thicker) and a width of 0.7 inches (wider) performed well in the paraffin / petroleum jelly wax mixture. It was observed during the burning process that the flat wick with a carved reinforcement again provided a consistent healthy flame.

[0211] The results in Table 2 show that the performance improvements of the flat wicks with carved reinforcements compared to the flat wicks and flat wicks with reinforcements shown in Table 1 can be sustained even when the wick geometry (particularly width and thickness) is different and different meltable fuels are used. Therefore, the flat wicks with carved reinforcements can be easily used with most widely used candle waxes. Without being limited to a particular theory, it is believed that carving helps normalize variations or anomalies in the wood that may inhibit or exaggerate the flow of fuel, thereby causing variations in flame height. When fuel flow is inhibited, the flame is lower, and when fuel flow is exaggerated, the flame may reach dangerous heights during the burn cycle. The flat wicks with carved reinforcements of the present disclosure exhibit consistent flame heights throughout the life of the candle.

[0212] The above discussion discloses and describes only exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. Therefore, the disclosure of the present invention is intended to illustrate but not to limit the scope of the present disclosure and the claims. The present disclosure, including any readily discernible variations taught herein, defines, in part, the scope of the above-mentioned claim terms, such that no inventive subject matter is specifically devised for the public.

Claims

1. A candle wick comprising: a sheet material comprising at least one selected from wood, wood-like substances, and cellulose fibers; as well as an engraving enhancement area, the engraving enhancement area being an area on the surface of the sheet in which material of the sheet has been removed; in: The sheet has a thickness, a height, and a width, the thickness being the smallest dimension of the sheet; The engraving enhancement area has a depth, a height, and a width, wherein the depth is the smallest dimension of the engraving enhancement area; When the wick is positioned in a candle, the height of the sheet and the height of the engraved enhancement area extend in a vertical direction; The depth of the engraving enhancement area is the distance that the engraving enhancement area extends into the thickness of the sheet material, and the depth of the engraving enhancement area is less than the thickness of the sheet material; The height of the engraving enhancement area is the largest dimension of the engraving enhancement area; and The ratio of the width of the engraving enhancement area to the width of the sheet is 1:3 to 1:

8.

2. The candle wick according to claim 1, wherein The height of the engraved enhancement area is at least 80% of the height of the sheet.

3. The candle wick according to claim 1, wherein The engraving enhancement area is located in the middle third of the width of the sheet.

4. The candle wick according to claim 1, wherein The wick includes a single carved reinforcement area on a single side of the sheet.

5. The candle wick according to claim 1, wherein The wick includes a plurality of separate areas of engraved enhancement formed on one or both sides of the sheet.

6. The candle wick according to claim 1, wherein The engraved enhancement area is formed by laser engraving the sheet.

7. The candle wick according to claim 1, wherein The engraving enhancement region includes a plurality of spots where material of the sheet has been removed.

8. The candle wick of claim 1 , wherein: The height of the sheet is 1 to 8 inches; The sheet has a width of 0.125 to 6 inches; The sheet has a thickness of 0.010 to 0.045 inches; and The engraved enhancement area has a width of 0.05 to 0.25 inches.

9. The candle wick according to claim 1, wherein The sheet material comprises cherry wood.

10. The candle wick according to claim 1, wherein The sheet material comprises maple wood.

11. The candle wick according to claim 1, wherein The sheet material comprises poplar wood.

12. The candle wick according to claim 1, wherein The sheet material comprises wood that has been stained.

13. The candle wick of claim 1 , wherein: The sheet material comprises wood; The grain direction of the wood is substantially aligned with the height of the sheet.

14. A candle comprising: The candle wick according to claim 1; as well as A body of fuel capable of melting.

15. The candle according to claim 14, wherein The wick is held upright in the body of the fusible fuel by a holder.

16. The candle of claim 14, wherein: The fusible fuel includes natural wax.

17. The candle of claim 14, wherein: The fusible fuel includes petroleum-based wax.

18. The candle of claim 14, wherein The fusible fuel includes a mixture of natural wax and petroleum-based wax.

19. The candle of claim 14, wherein The body of meltable fuel is disposed in a container.

20. A candle wick comprising: a sheet material comprising at least one selected from wood, wood-like substances, and cellulose fibers; as well as an engraving enhancement area, the engraving enhancement area being an area on the surface of the sheet in which material of the sheet is removed by laser engraving; in: The sheet has a thickness, a height, and a width, the thickness being the smallest dimension of the sheet; The engraving enhancement area has a depth, a height, and a width, wherein the depth is the smallest dimension of the engraving enhancement area; When the wick is positioned in a candle, the height of the sheet and the height of the engraved enhancement area extend in a vertical direction; The depth of the engraving enhancement area is the distance that the engraving enhancement area extends into the thickness of the sheet material, and the depth of the engraving enhancement area is less than the thickness of the sheet material; The height of the engraving enhancement area is the largest dimension of the engraving enhancement area; and The width of the engraved enhancement area is 0.075 to 0.175 inches.

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