Systems and methods for reducing inflammation

Abstract

A system and method for a flame-extinguishing candle for automatically retracting and extinguishing a wick flame. The system includes a candle, a wick, and a puck assembly. The candle includes a bore for receiving the wick and a cavity for receiving the puck assembly. The puck assembly may include a motor-driven power screw or a spur gear associated with a spaced apart pinion gear. The puck assembly is removable from the candle for reuse with another candle. A wick-engaging member may be operatively associated with the power screw for linear motion transferred to the wick. The pinion gear may be engageable with a rack gear positioned therebetween, such that rotation of the pinion gear is translated into linear motion of the wick. A computer system may be utilized to control the motor based on a time signal, an activation signal, a sensor signal, or any wireless signal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technology of the present invention relates to a system and method for an anti-inflammatory candle used in connection with storing a wick inside a candle. Further, the technology of the present invention may relate to automatically storing the wick of a flame inside the candle body to extinguish the flame based on a preset time, a preset inclination angle of the candle, a wireless or Bluetooth activation signal, a mobile application (app), a voice command, or a heat signal.

Background Art

[0002] Candles have been used as a light source and, in some cases, as a heat source for thousands of years, but have presented significant safety issues to date. The initial use of candles was to soak a reed wick in melted animal fat. Candles have evolved over the years, but the dangers still exist as they did years ago. Current candles still rely on an exposed flame, which needs to be extinguished by a person or some other means.

[0003] In recent years, candles have gained new popularity by utilizing by-products from modern manufacturing in the basic components of candles, namely paraffin and stearic acid. The ease of manufacturing candles has increased their popularity, and there is a growing interest in candles as decorative items, mood setters, aromatherapy, and gifts. Candles have suddenly become available in a variety of sizes, shapes, colors, and scents.

[0004] Candles have made great progress since their initial use. Although candles are not mainly used as a major source of light or heat, the popularity and uses of candles continue to increase. Today, candles can serve to symbolize celebrations, kindle romance, soothe the senses, honor ceremonies, and accentuate interior decoration.

[0005] However, the dangers associated with candles remain. With their new, unstable shapes, candles tend to tip over, potentially increasing the risk of home fires that result in property damage, injury, and even death. Furthermore, in modern times, most people lead busy lifestyles, and lit candles may be left unattended for extended periods. This, in turn, leads to the catastrophes mentioned herein.

[0006] The dangerous consequences of using a burning candle include the possibility of fire resulting in property damage, injury, or death. One of the more common causes of candle fire hazards is leaving a burning candle unattended and / or having a long exposed wick, which produces a large flame. A long candle wick typically produces a high flame that burns in an irregular pattern or height. These irregular patterns create a fire-prone tendency. Another danger related to candle wicks is the possibility of overheating, which poses a considerable concern and fire hazard.

[0007] Furthermore, candles are offered in many different shapes, some of which are very unstable and prone to tipping over, which users may not notice. It is important to recognize that a tipped candle poses an extremely dangerous fire hazard.

[0008] While known self-extinguishing candle devices satisfy their respective specific purposes and requirements, the aforementioned devices or systems do not describe candles with systems and methods relating to self-extinguishing and flame-extinguishing candles, i.e., those that enable the automatic retraction of the wick within the candle body using special techniques, gear assemblies, and computer control systems. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0009] There is a need for new and novel technologies for automatically extinguishing candle flames. The flame-extinguishing candle system and method of the present invention satisfies this need. In this regard, the flame-extinguishing candle system and method of the present invention substantially deviates from the conventional concepts and designs of known self-extinguishing candles, thereby providing a device primarily developed for the purpose of immediately relighting the wick after it has been stored in the candle body below the flame-extinguishing wax line.

[0010] Taking into account the aforementioned disadvantages inherent in all known types of candles, the art of the present invention provides a system and method relating to a novel flame-extinguishing candle that overcomes one or more of the disadvantages and drawbacks of known self-extinguishing candles that have been mentioned. Accordingly, the general object of the art of the present invention, which will be described in further detail thereafter, is to provide a new and novel system and method relating to a flame-extinguishing candle that has all the advantages of known self-extinguishing candles mentioned herein, and many novel features that bring about a flame-extinguishing candle system, either alone or in any combination thereof, which are not expected, obviously not expressed, not suggested, or further implied by known self-extinguishing candles. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] According to one embodiment, the technology of the present invention may include a flame-extinguishing candle system for housing a wick inside a candle. The flame-extinguishing candle system may include a pack assembly associated with a candle. The pack assembly may include a motor that is operably engageable with the wick and operably engageable with a wick engaging member that causes the wick to move inside the candle.

[0012] In another embodiment, the technology of the present invention may include a flame-extinguishing candle system comprising a pack body, a wick engaging member, and a base assembly. The pack body may be receivable in a cavity defined in the candle. The pack body may include a guide member and a bore defined through the guide member. The wick engaging member may be slidably receivable in the bore of the guide member. The wick engaging member may be operably engaged with the wick. The base assembly may be mountable to the pack body. The base assembly may include a motor that is operably engaged with the wick engaging member and provides linear motion of the wick engaging member, which provides motion of the wick within the candle.

[0013] In another embodiment, the technology of the present invention may include a flame-extinguishing candle system, which may include a candle, a wick, a pack body, a wick engaging member, a base assembly, a motor, and a computer or controller system. The candle may include a wick bore defined along the longitudinal axis of the candle and a bottom cavity defined in the bottom section of the candle and communicating with the wick bore. The wick may be configured to be slidably receivable through the wick bore. A wick plate may be associated with the wick. The pack body may be receivable in the cavity of the candle. The pack body may include a guide member and a bore defined through the guide member. A wick engaging member may be slidably receivable in the bore of the guide member. The wick engaging member may be operably engaged with the wick plate. The base assembly may be mountable on the pack body. The base assembly may be operably engaged with the wick engaging member and may be configured to support a motor that can provide linear motion of the wick engaging member, which provides motion of the wick within the candle. A computer or controller system can be configured to control a motor based on one or a combination of time signals, start signals, sensor signals, voice commands, wireless start signals, and network start signals.

[0014] In yet another aspect, the technology of the present invention may include a method for extinguishing a wick flame using a flame-extinguishing candle system. This method may include the step of controlling a motor to operably drive a wick engaging member of a pack assembly associated with a candle. The wick engaging member is operably engaged with the wick, resulting in the movement of the wick within the candle.

[0015] In yet another embodiment, the technology of the present invention may further include a flame-extinguishing candle system comprising a first pinion gear, a second pinion gear, a motor, a rack gear, and a wick. The second pinion gear is spaced apart from the first pinion gear, and a gap can be defined between the pinion gears. The motor can be configured to operably drive the first and second pinion gears, so that the first and second pinion gears rotate in opposite directions. The rack gear may be receptive in the gap and may be engageable with the first and second pinion gears, so that the rotation of the first and second pinion gears results in linear motion of the rack gear. The wick can be associated with the rack gear to move together with the wick through a wick bore defined in the candle.

[0016] In yet another embodiment, the technology of the present invention may include a flame-extinguishing candle system comprising a candle, a wick assembly, and a pack assembly. The candle may include a wick bore defined along the longitudinal axis of the candle and a bottom cavity defined in the bottom section of the candle and communicating with the wick bore. The wick assembly may include a wick, a wick plate, and a rack gear. The wick may be configured to be slidably receivable through the wick bore. The wick plate may be receivable in the bottom cavity. The rack gear may be mounted on the wick plate. The pack assembly may be receivable in the bottom cavity of the candle. The pack assembly may include a first spur gear and a first pinion gear, both fixed to a first shaft. A second spur gear and a second pinion may both be fixed to a second shaft. The second spur gear may be engageable with the first spur gear. A second pinion gear can be separated from the first pinion gear and a gap can be defined between the pinion gears configured to receive a rack gear. The motor can be configured to operate to drive the first spur gear. A computer or controller system can be configured to control the motor based on one or a combination of time signals, start signals, sensor signals, voice commands, radio start signals, and network start signals. The rack gear can be engaged with the first and second pinion gears, so that the rotation of the first and second pinion gears results in the linear motion of the rack gear.

[0017] In yet another aspect, the technology of the present invention may include a method for extinguishing a wick flame using a flame-extinguishing candle system. The method may include the step of controlling a motor to operably drive a first pinion gear and a second pinion gear to linearly move a rack gear engaged and positioned between the pinion gears. The rack gear can be configured to impart linear motion to a wick that can be slidably received through a wick bore defined through the candle.

[0018] In some or all embodiments, the candle may include a wax body that allows the wick flame to be extinguished when the wick is retracted into the wick bore.

[0019] In some or all embodiments, the pack assembly may further include a pack body receivable in a cavity defined in the candle, and a base assembly attachable to the pack body and configured to support a motor.

[0020] In some or all embodiments, the motor can be operably associated with a group selected from gears and power screws.

[0021] In some or all embodiments, the core engagement member can be configured to be driven by a motor and to provide linear motion to the core.

[0022] In some or all embodiments, the core engagement member may include a screw member that operably engages with a power screw operably driven by a motor.

[0023] In some or all embodiments, the core engagement member can be slidably received in a bore defined through a guide member of the pack body.

[0024] In some or all embodiments, the core engagement member may further include one or more guides extending outward from the core engagement member, each guide being defined in a guide member and configured to be slidably received in a channel communicating with the bore.

[0025] In some or all embodiments, the core engagement member may include a magnet that is operably engaged with the core plate of the core.

[0026] In one or all embodiments, the pack assembly may further include a candle holder, the candle holder being receivable in a cavity of the candle, configured to receive an insertion section of the pack body, and a base section of the pack body supporting the bottom of the candle.

[0027] In one or all embodiments, the candle holder and the insertion section may include corresponding engagable elements configured to fix the pack body to the candle holder when the insertion section is inserted into the candle holder over a predetermined distance.

[0028] Some or all embodiments of the technology of the present invention may include a first spur gear that is operably engagable with a drive gear of a motor. The first spur gear can be fixed to a first shaft that is fixed to a first pinion gear. Some or all of the technology of the present invention may include a second spur gear that is operably engagable with the first spur gear. The second spur gear can be fixed to a second shaft that is fixed to a second pinion gear. In some or all embodiments, the first pinion gear and the second pinion gear may each include a ledge extending outward from the periphery. The ledge of the first pinion gear and the ledge of the second pinion gear can be configured to contact a rack gear in an unlocked position.

[0029] Some or all embodiments of the technology of the present invention may include a core plate attached to the core and the rack gear.

[0030] Some or all embodiments of the technology of the present invention may include a pack assembly which may include a bottom cover and a top cover. The bottom cover may be configured to support a motor, a first pinion gear, and a second pinion gear. The top cover may be attachable to the bottom cover and may surround the motor, the first pinion gear, and the second pinion gear. In some or all embodiments, the bottom cover may further include one or more side locks extending from the bottom cover. In some or all embodiments, the top cover may include one or more side lock notches configured to receive one or more side locks internally when the top cover and bottom cover are assembled.

[0031] Some or all embodiments of the present invention may include a lock bar configured to be receivable into a slot defined in the side lock. The lock bar may be configured to extend outside the pack assembly for insertion into the candle.

[0032] In some or all embodiments, the top cover may include a recessed section defining an upper cavity configured to slidably receive a core plate. The bore may be defined to pass through the recessed section configured to slidably receive a rack gear.

[0033] Some or all embodiments of the present invention may include a washer that can be positioned between the upper wall of the top cover and the upper wall of the candle cavity defining the bottom cavity.

[0034] In some or all embodiments, the pack assembly may further include a U-shaped support structure configured to rotatably support a first shaft and a second shaft and a first pinion gear and a second pinion gear located between parallel side walls that partially define the U-shaped support structure, with the first spur gear and the second spur gear located outside the parallel side walls.

[0035] Some or all embodiments of the technology of the present invention may include a computer or controller system configured or configurable to control a motor based on one or a combination of time signals, start signals, and sensor signals.

[0036] In some or all embodiments, a computer or controller system may be configured to control a motor based on a sensor selected from a group consisting of tilt sensors, angle sensors, and thermal sensors.

[0037] Some or all embodiments of the technology of the present invention may include a base that is attachable to a pack assembly and configured to communicate with the electrical components of the pack assembly.

[0038] Therefore, in order to better understand the detailed explanation that follows and to better recognize the contribution of the present invention to the art, the technical features of the present invention are outlined in a fairly broad sense. [Effects of the Invention]

[0039] Some of the objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become immediately apparent to those skilled in the art when reading the following detailed description of the present invention, but when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, it will be clear that the embodiments of the present invention are illustrative.

[0040] Therefore, those skilled in the art will recognize that the concepts on which this disclosure is based can be readily used as a basis for designing other structures, methods, and systems to carry out some of the objectives of the art of the present invention.

[0041] Therefore, the technical objective of the present invention is to provide a new and novel flame-extinguishing candle system and method that brings all the advantages of known self-extinguishing candles without any disadvantages.

[0042] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a system and method relating to new and novel flame-extinguishing candles that can be easily and efficiently manufactured and marketed.

[0043] A further objective of the present invention is to provide a new and novel system and method for flame-extinguishing candles that results in low-cost manufacturing in terms of both materials and work, and therefore, as a result, enable low-price sales to general consumers, thereby making such system and method for flame-extinguishing candles economically available to general buyers.

[0044] A further object of the present invention is to provide a system and method relating to a novel flame-extinguishing candle that offers some of the advantages of known self-extinguishing candle devices and methods, while simultaneously overcoming some of the disadvantages usually associated with known self-extinguishing candles.

[0045] To gain a good understanding of the technology of the present invention, its operational advantages, and the specific purposes achieved by its use, please refer to the accompanying drawings and descriptions illustrating embodiments of the technology of the present invention. While several purposes of the technology of the present invention are evident herein, it should be understood that the claimed technology of the present invention is not limited to satisfying most or all of the specified purposes, and that some embodiments of the technology of the present invention may satisfy only one or none of such purposes.

[0046] Considering the following detailed description, the technology of the present invention will be well understood, and purposes other than those described above will become clear. Such descriptions are provided in the attached diagrams. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0047] [Figure 1] This is a top perspective view of an embodiment of a flame-extinguishing candle system constructed according to the principles of the present invention, with the internal structure indicated by hidden lines (dashed lines). [Figure 2]This is a bottom perspective view of the flame-extinguishing candle system of the present invention. [Figure 3] This is an enlarged perspective view of the flame-extinguishing candle system of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a cross-sectional perspective view of a pack assembly of the technology of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is a cross-sectional view of a motor and gear assembly of the present invention. [Figure 6] This is a cross-sectional perspective view of the flame-extinguishing candle system of the present invention. [Figure 7] This is a bottom elevation view showing the lock bar in the engaged position inserted into the candle and the engaged / disengaged position retracted from the candle, when the gripping portion rotates in the storage position of the recessed bottom surface of the slide lock. [Figure 8] This is a cross-sectional view showing the left lock bar in the engaged position and the right lock bar in the disengaged position. [Figure 9] This is a cross-sectional view of the core engagement gear assembly, core, and plate in the unlocked position. [Figure 10] This is a cross-sectional view of a core-engagement gear assembly in the engaged position with the core and plate pressed down. [Figure 11] This is a cross-sectional view of the wick engagement gear assembly in its stored position, with the wick retracted inside the candle body. [Figure 12] This is a perspective view of a flame-extinguishing candle system, including the pack base, to which the pack assembly is attached and inserted into the candle body. [Figure 13] This is an exploded perspective view of the bottom section of the pack assembly showing the pack connector, and the top section of the pack base showing the base connector. [Figure 14] This is a perspective view of a flame-extinguishing candle system including an alternative embodiment of a pack assembly inserted into a candle body, which includes a pack base, pack body, candle holder, and wick drive member. [Figure 15] This is a perspective view of the candle holder in the pack assembly of an alternative embodiment. [Figure 16]This is a cross-sectional view of a candle holder taken along line 16-16 in Figure 15. [Figure 17] This is a side view of the pack body of the pack assembly in an alternative embodiment. [Figure 18] This is a bottom perspective view of the pack body of the pack assembly in an alternative embodiment. [Figure 19] This is a top perspective view of the core engagement member of the pack assembly in an alternative embodiment. [Figure 20] This is a bottom perspective view of the core engaging member of the pack assembly in an alternative embodiment. [Figure 21] This is a cross-sectional view of the core engagement member taken along line 21-21 in Figure 19. [Figure 22] This is a top perspective view of the base assembly of the pack assembly in an alternative embodiment. [Figure 23] This is a cross-sectional view of the base assembly taken along line 23-23 in Figure 22. [Figure 24] Figure 14 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the flame suppression candle system. [Figure 25] This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the candle holder and pack body connecting assembly taken from line 25 in Figure 24. [Figure 26] This is a lateral cross-sectional view of the flame suppression candle system taken along line 26-26 in Figure 24. [Figure 27] This is a cross-sectional view of the wick engaging member in its storage position, with the wick retracted inside the candle body. [Figure 28] This document illustrates an exemplary electronic computing device that may be used to carry out embodiments of the technology of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0048] The same reference number refers to the same part throughout various diagrams.

[0049] The following description includes specific details such as particular embodiments, procedures, and techniques, for illustrative purposes only, not limitations, to provide a complete understanding of the art of the present invention. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the art of the present invention can be carried out in other embodiments departing from these specific details.

[0050] Referring here to the drawings, particularly Figures 1 to 28, embodiments of systems and methods relating to flame-extinguishing candles of the present invention are shown, generally designated by reference numeral 10. According to any embodiment, the present invention may include a flame-extinguishing candle system for housing a wick inside a candle. The flame-extinguishing candle system may include a pack assembly associated with a candle body. The pack assembly may include a motor that is operably engageable with the wick and operably engageable with a wick engaging member that causes the wick to move inside the candle.

[0051] It can be recognized that the pack assemblies of any or all embodiments of the technology of the present invention may be separate or standalone components available for any type of candle. It can be further recognized that the pack assemblies of any or all embodiments of the technology of the present invention may have any size, configuration, and / or shape that can be used in a variety of other candle designs.

[0052] The design of any or all embodiments of the pack assembly of the technology of the present invention, including its structure, utility, and / or function, protects any subsequent iterations, regardless of their application.

[0053] Figures 1 and 2 illustrate and describe, in principle, a new and novel flame-extinguishing candle system and method 10 of the present invention for storing a wick 70 within a candle or candle body 12. More specifically, the flame-extinguishing candle system and method 10 may include a candle body 12, which includes a wick bore 14, a wick 70, and a pack assembly 20 receivable in a bottom cavity 16 of the candle body 12. The flame-extinguishing candle system 10 can be used and configured to automatically store the wick 70 within the candle body 12 after a predetermined period from a timer, in response to user input, activation by voice command, activation via wireless or Bluetooth, activation via network or the internet, or, but not limited to, a sensor such as a tilt / angle sensor 208, a motion sensor, or a heat sensor 218 (see Figure 28). The tilt / angle sensor 208 may be in the form of a mercury switch, configured to be in a non-activated state in the horizontal direction.

[0054] The candle body 12 may be any type of candle, but is not limited to, a wax candle, a glass bottle candle, a kerosene lamp, any candle including a combustion body, or any lamp that utilizes a combustion fuel. For illustrative purposes only, but is not limited, the following description refers to a candle. The technology of the present invention can be adapted to any size or shape of candle, or incorporated into existing candles.

[0055] The wick bore 14 can be defined along the central longitudinal axis of the candle body 12, which communicates with the bottom cavity 16, thereby corresponding to known candle designs. However, it can be recognized that the wick bore 14 may be multiple bores defined through the candle at any location, direction angle, and / or direction to accommodate multiple wicks in variable locations and directions.

[0056] The candle body 12 may be any type of candle, but is not limited to, a wax candle, a glass bottle candle, a kerosene lamp, any candle including a combustion body, or any lamp that utilizes a combustion fuel. For illustrative purposes only, but is not limited, the following description refers to a candle. The technology of the present invention can be adapted to any size or shape of candle, or incorporated into existing candles.

[0057] The wick 70 can slide through the wick bore 14 of the candle body 12 and extend into the bottom cavity 16. The wick 70 can be designed to slide or move freely through the wick bore 14 via a non-stick or lubricating coating applied to the wick 70. Alternatively, the wick 70 can be mounted on a hollow shaft or tube (not shown) to allow the wick 70 to move freely through the wick bore 14.

[0058] The pack assembly 20 can be utilized and configured to include all mechanical and electrical components necessary to operate the technology of the present invention. The pack assembly 20 can be designed to fit snugly into the bottom cavity 16 of the candle body 12, while being designed not to fall out unless physically removed. In example, the retaining means of the structure can be associated with the outside of the pack assembly 20 engaging with the wax material of the candle body 12 defining the bottom cavity 16, thereby securing the pack assembly 20 in the bottom cavity 16. The pack assembly 20 can be inserted into a curing candle, or the pack assembly 20 can be placed in a candle mold to receive the melted wax around the pack assembly 20. As curing occurs, the wax will solidify around the pack assembly 20, thereby securing it in place.

[0059] Referring to Figure 3, the technology of the present invention utilizes a pack assembly 20 to allow the wick 70 to slide slidably through the wick bore 14 of the candle body 12. The pack assembly 20 may include a base assembly or bottom cover 22 and a pack body or top cover 60, which are fixed together to form a closable body enclosing the mechanical and electrical components of the technology of the present invention. The pack body may have a substantially cylindrical configuration that is molded to match the bottom cavity 16 of the candle, but is not limited.

[0060] As best shown in Figures 2 to 5, the bottom cover 22 may include a battery cover 24 that allows access to one or more batteries 26. One or more side locks 30 may extend upward from the opposite side of the periphery of the bottom cover 22. Each side lock 30 may include a slot 32 configured to receive a lock bar 34 having a substantially T-shape, but is not limited to this. Each side lock 30 is receivable in a side lock notch 62 defined on the periphery of the top cover 60.

[0061] As best shown in Figures 7 and 8, exemplify the case, a portion of the T-shaped lock bar 34 may extend outward from the side lock 30 and bottom cover 22, so that the user can slide the lock bar 34 along the slot 32, and the free end of the lock bar 34 may extend outward from the slot 32, which is the side of the pack assembly 20, for insertion into the candle body 12. This can be achieved by a slide lock 30 which includes an open bottom recess 31 communicating with the slot 32, and the side walls of the side lock 30 support the end face of the T-shaped lock bar 34. The open bottom recess 31 is divided into two or more sections by a pair of partition walls 33, with an opening defined between its free ends, allowing the grip portion 35 of the lock bar 34 to move between those sections. After insertion, the user can rotate the lock bar 34, and as a result, receive the grip portion 35 in any one of the sections of the open bottom recess 31.

[0062] The lock bar 34 can be engaged with and disengaged from the candle body 12, allowing the pack assembly 20 to be removed. The user can rotate the gripping portion 35 out of the open bottom recess 31 and slide the lock bar 34 along the slot 32 to the storage position.

[0063] As best shown in Figures 4 and 9, one or more mounting posts 28 may extend upward from the bottom cover 22 so as to engage with or abut against corresponding mounting posts 66 extending from the upper wall of the top cover 60. As best shown in Figure 9, the bottom cover 22 and the top cover 60 can be fastened together using fasteners 78.

[0064] In the alternative design, the screw arrangement is associated with the side walls of the bottom cover 22 and the top cover 60, which may allow for rotational assembly of the pack assembly 20, thereby eliminating the need for mounting posts 28 and 66.

[0065] Referring to Figures 3 to 6, the bottom cover 22 may include a drive support structure 36 including a substantially U-shaped wall. One or more motor mounts 38 may extend from one side wall of the drive support structure 36. The motor 40 may include one or more motor flanges 42 configured to align with the motor mounts 38, thereby allowing the motor 40 to be fixed to the drive support structure 36 in a horizontal position, parallel to the bottom cover 22, or laterally to the drive support structure 36. The drive gear 44 operably engages with the motor 40, and when assembled, the motor 40 and drive gear 44 are located outside the drive support structure 36 via the motor mounts 38.

[0066] The first spur gear 46 is rotatably mounted outside the drive support structure 36 via a first shaft 48 that extends through the parallel walls of the U-shaped drive support structure 36. The first spur gear 46 is engageable and operably driven by a drive gear 44.

[0067] The second spur gear 50 is rotatably mounted outside the drive support structure 36 via a second shaft 52 that extends through the parallel walls of the U-shaped drive support structure 36. The second shaft 52 and thus the second spur gear 50 are spaced apart from the first spur gear 46. The second spur gear 50 is engageable and operably driven by the first spur gear 46. As best shown in Figure 5, when the motor 40 rotates the drive gear 44 during operation, the drive gear 44 rotates the first spur gear 46 and, therefore, rotates the second spur gear 50 in the opposite direction.

[0068] As best shown in Figures 4, 6, and 9-11, a core engagement member or assembly may be located inside the U-shaped drive support structure 36, which may feature a clamping gear assembly or rack and pinion assembly including a first pinion gear 54, a second pinion gear 56, and a cylindrical rack gear 74. The first pinion gear 54 is operably mounted with the first shaft 48 to rotate together with the rotation of the first spur gear 46. The second pinion gear 56 is operably mounted with the second shaft 52 to rotate together with the rotation of the second spur gear 50. The first pinion gear 54 and the second pinion gear 56 have a smaller size or diameter than the corresponding spur gear. This provides a gap or space between the teeth of the first pinion gear 54 and the second pinion gear 56.

[0069] The first and second pinion gears 54, 56 each include a toothed section, a non-toothed section, and protruding ledges 55, 57, respectively. The protruding ledges 55, 57 extend tangentially from the edges of their corresponding pinion gears 54, 56. When assembled, as best shown in Figure 9, the ledges 55, 57 face each other when the technology of the present invention is in the unlocked position. Defined on the plane or ledges 55, 57, and providing smooth contact with the free end of the rack gear 74, the ledges 55, 57 are allowed to be easily pushed radially when the rack gear 74 makes contact.

[0070] The rack gear 74 can be configured as an elongated shaft characterized by a plurality of offset radial or cylindrical teeth 76. The rack gear 74 is further configured to be receptive in the gap between the first pinion gear 54 and the second pinion gear 56, so that the cylindrical teeth 76 can engage with the teeth of the first pinion gear 54 and the second pinion gear 56. It can be recognized that the rotation of the first pinion gear 54 and the second pinion gear 56 is converted into the longitudinal motion of the rack gear 74.

[0071] Therefore, continuing to push the rack gear 74 against the ledges 55, 57 until the teeth 76 of the rack gear 74 engage with the teeth of the first pinion gear 54 and the second pinion gear 56 respectively will result in rotation of the first pinion gear 54 and the second pinion gear 56. It can be seen that by pulling the rack gear 74, the first pinion gear 54 and the second pinion gear 56 will rotate in the opposite direction until they are pulled together with or disengaged from the teeth 76 of the rack gear 74 or the teeth of the first spur gear 46 and the second spur gear 50.

[0072] A computer or controller system 200 (see Figure 28) may be included in the pack assembly 20 and may be associated with a bottom cover 22 that operably communicates with the battery 26 and the motor 40. The computer or controller system 200 may include and / or communicate with various electrical components, sensors, controllers, etc. For example, the computer or controller system 200 may include a printed circuit board (PCB) featuring a timer and / or an angle sensor or tilt sensor 208, which are configured to detect or determine the tilt or inclination direction of the candle body 12, or a wireless, internet, or Bluetooth interface.

[0073] As best shown in Figures 5, 6, and 9–11, the top cover 60 may include a guide member or recessed section 64 which defines a bore or upper cavity 65 configured to slidably receive the core plate 72. The interior of the top cover 60 may include a hollow section with an open end configured to enclose the electrical and mechanical components of the pack assembly 20. A seal or gasket (not shown) may be associated with the free end or edge of the side wall of the top cover 60 to prevent wax or moisture from entering the interior of the pack assembly 20 when the bottom cover 22 and the top cover 60 are assembled.

[0074] The core plate 72 is configured to be fixed to or engaged with the free end of the rack gear 74, supporting and securing the free end or end face of the core 70. The bottom wall of the recessed section 64 defines a bore 63 that communicates with the upper cavity 65. As best shown in Figure 9, the bore 63 is configured to slidably receive the rack gear 74. It can be seen that the motion of the rack gear 74 is converted into the motion of the core plate 72 and, consequently, the core 70.

[0075] The metal washer 80 can be positioned between the upper wall of the top cover 60 and the upper wall of the cavity 16 of the bottom of the candle body 12. The metal washer 80 can be configured to protect the pack assembly 20 from melting wax from the candle body 12 during operation.

[0076] Referring here to Figures 9 to 11, the operating conditions associated with the motion of the core 70 are explained. Initially, the first pinion gear 54 and the second pinion gear 56 can be in the unlocked position (see Figure 9), thus allowing the free motion of the core 70. In the unlocked position, the ledges 55 and 57 of the first pinion gear 54 and the second pinion gear 56 face each other, and as a result, the planes of the ledges 55 and 57 can contact the free end of the rack gear 74. The rack gear 74, core 70, and core plate 72 can be inserted into the upper cavity 65, and as a result, the rack gear 74 extends through the bore 63 into the gap between the first pinion gear 54 and the second pinion gear 56, and as a result, the free end of the rack gear 74 contacts both the ledges 55 and 57.

[0077] Subsequently, the core plate 72 can be pushed slightly into the upper cavity 65, so that the rack gear 74 is pushed against the ledges 55, 57, thereby rotating its corresponding pinion gears 54, 56, and as a result its teeth engage with the cylindrical teeth 76. Here, as best shown in Figure 10, this results in the first pinion gear 54 and the second pinion gear 56 being in the locked position.

[0078] Therefore, the operation of the motor 40 here causes the rotation of the first spur gear 46 and the second spur gear 50, the rotation of the first pinion gear 54 and the second pinion gear 56, and thus the vertical motion of the rack gear 74 and the core 70.

[0079] As best shown in Figure 11, in the extinguishing operation, the motor 40 can be operated so that the first pinion gear 54 and the second pinion gear 56 are in the retracted position. In the retracted position, the wick 70 is retracted into the candle body 12, where the melted wax can extinguish the flame of the wick 70. In the example, the rotation of the first pinion gear 54 and the second pinion gear 56 can be done at a specific angle, thereby allowing for approximately 1 / 2 inch of vertical movement of the wick 70. It can be recognized that, for immediate ignition and use, the reverse operation of the motor 40 may result in the wick 70 extending upward and outward from the wick bore 14.

[0080] The operation of the motor 40 can be achieved by a button located on the bottom cover 22, or automatically by a computer or controller system 200. Furthermore, in examples, the bottom cover 22 may include one or more buttons or switches for providing or setting control of the motor 40 and / or the computer or controller system 200. For example, the buttons and / or switches may be associated with one or more operating states. These operating states, but are not limited to, include on / off, test mode, a preset period for automatic wick retraction (10 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours, 3 hours, 4 hours, etc.), clamped wick mode and unclamped wick mode, or pack removal. The test mode can be configured to allow the candle body 12 to burn for a predetermined time (TBD), then operate the motor 40 to retract the wick 70, extinguishing the flame and keeping it unlit until the user relights it. The clamped wick mode can be configured to lock the wick 70 to the pack assembly 20, while the unclamped wick mode can be configured to unlock the wick 70 from the pack assembly 20. The pack removal switch can be configured to allow the pack assembly 20 to be removed from the candle body 12 without damaging the motor and gear assembly. It can be recognized that the switch or button may be of any known type.

[0081] Referring here to Figures 12 and 13, an alternative embodiment of the pack assembly 20' includes a pack base 84 available in the art of the present invention. The pack base 84 can be configured to connect operably to and / or with the pack assembly 20'. The pack base 84 may have any geometric configuration that supports the candle body 12 and may have a greater width or diameter than the candle body 12. It can be recognized that the pack base 84 can be configured to capture any melted wax that flows under the sides of the candle body 12. Furthermore, it can be recognized that the pack base 84 may be included with or separately from the candle body 12 and / or the pack assembly 20' and / or can be purchased separately.

[0082] In the example, the pack base 84 may be a decorative flat base, approximately 3 / 4 inch high, rounded like the bottom of the candle body 12, and approximately 1 or 2 inches wider than the candle body 12.

[0083] The pack base 84 can be configured to hold some or all of the electronic components and batteries that may not fit in the pack assembly 20'. The batteries in the pack base 84 may be the main power source or an auxiliary power source for the batteries in the pack assembly 20'. Alternatively, the power source may be a power converter provided in the pack base 84 and / or pack assemblies 20, 20', which can be plugged into a standard power outlet, via a power cord. Such electronic components may include, but are not limited to, a radio receiver or transceiver, Bluetooth or an electronic interface, a microphone for voice command or recognition, etc.

[0084] The pack assembly 20' and the pack base 84 can be connected or meshed together using male / female connectors or several electronic interfaces to enable the two units to work together as one. For example, the pack assembly 20' may include a female connector 82 with appropriate electrical contacts that match the male connector 86 of the pack base 84, and vice versa. The male connector 82 and female connector 86 may have a cylindrical configuration, allowing the pack assembly 20' to rotate relative to the pack base 84.

[0085] The metal top plate 88 can be installed on the upper side of the pack base 84 so as not to damage the top of the pack base 84. The top place 88 is in the shape of a washer and can be detachably installed on the upper side of the pack base 84, and the male connector 86 extends through the central hole of the top plate 88.

[0086] To combine one embodiment of the technology of the present invention, the user can further recognize that the assembled rack gear 74 and core plate 72 can be inserted into the upper cavity 65 while in the unlocked position. The user can continue to press the core plate 72, thereby engaging the teeth 76 of the rack gear 74 with the teeth of the first pinion gear 54 and the second pinion gear 56 to set the preset technology in the locked position.

[0087] Once the wick 70 is attached to the wick plate 72, the user can screw the wick 70 into the candle wick bore 14 and insert the pack assembly into the bottom cavity 16 of the candle body 12. The locking bar 34 can rotate or slide to the engagement position, and as a result, the end of the locking bar 34 extends into the candle body 12, securing the pack assembly to the candle body 12. At this point, the pre-configured technique can be operated.

[0088] Referring to Figures 14 to 27, the novel flame-extinguishing candle system 10 of the present invention may include a pack assembly 90 of an alternative embodiment for housing the wick 70 within the candle body 12. More specifically, as best shown in Figure 14, the pack assembly 90 may be receivable in the bottom cavity 16 of the candle body 12 and may include a candle holder 92, a pack body 110, a wick engaging member 140, and a pack base assembly 160. The pack assembly 90 can be utilized and configured to include all mechanical and electrical components for operating the technology of the present invention. The pack assembly 90 may be designed to fit snugly into the bottom cavity 16 of the candle body 12, while being designed not to fall out unless physically removed.

[0089] The flame-extinguishing candle system 10 can be used and configured to automatically retract the wick 70 into the candle body 12 after a predetermined period from the timer, in response to user input, activation by voice command, activation via wireless or Bluetooth, activation via network or the internet, or, but not limited to, activation by a sensor such as a tilt / angle sensor 208, motion sensor 218, or heat sensor 218 (see Figure 28). The tilt / angle sensor 208 may be in the form of a mercury switch, and is configured to be in a non-activated state in the horizontal direction.

[0090] Referring to Figures 15 and 16, the candle holder 92 is receivable and fixable in the bottom cavity 16 of the candle body 12 and may include a top wall 96, an internal chamber 98 of the candle holder, and a body 94 characterized by an open bottom. An opening 100 is defined to pass through the top wall 96 and communicate with the internal chamber 98. The opening 100 is configured to receive a wick 70 and wick plate 72 through it, which may be made of metal or any ferromagnetic material.

[0091] In the example, the candle holder body 94 may be substantially cylindrical with a tapered shape extending outward from the upper wall 96. The body 94 may include a substantially flat surface or planar side 95. One or more first grooves 102 may be defined in or through a first section of the body 94, and one or more first protrusions 104 may extend from the inside of the body 94 into the internal chamber 68.

[0092] One or more second grooves 106 can be defined in or through the first section of the body 95, and one or more first protrusions 108 can extend from the inside of the planar side 95 of the body 94 into the internal chamber 68.

[0093] It can be recognized that the main body 94 may have any geometric shape, and that the first groove 102 and the second groove 106 and the first ridge 104 and the second ridge 108 may have any configuration or profile.

[0094] In the example, the first groove 102 and the second groove 106 can act as structural retaining means associated with the outside of the pack assembly 92, engaging with the wax material of the candle body 12 defining the bottom cavity 16, thereby securing the pack assembly 92 in the bottom cavity 16. The candle holder 92 can be inserted into a hardened candle, or the candle holder 92 can be placed in a candle mold to receive the melted wax around the candle holder 92. Once hardened, the wax will solidify around the solid candle holder 92 and in the grooves 102, 106, thereby securing the wax in place in the cavity 16.

[0095] Referring to Figures 17 and 18, the pack body 110 or a portion of the pack body 110 is receivable and fixable in the candle holder internal chamber 98, thereby removably attaching the pack body to the candle holder 92. The pack body 110 includes an insertion section 112, a base section 126, and a flange or ledge 128 between the insertion section 112 and the base section 126.

[0096] The insertion section 112 may be substantially cylindrical with a tapered shape that extends outward from the upper wall 114. The insertion section 112 may have a substantially flat surface or planar side 124, and may have a configuration, shape, and / or provide a configuration, shape similar to that of the candle holder 92. The dimensions of the insertion section 112 are smaller than those of the candle holder 92 so that it can be received in the internal chamber 98 of the candle holder.

[0097] The first external section of the insertion section 112 includes a first notch 115 defined inward or through, which may be configured to receive at least one of the first protrusions 104 of the candle holder 92. A second notch 125 may be defined inward or through the planar side 124 of the insertion section 112, which may be configured to receive at least one of the second protrusions 108 of the candle holder 92.

[0098] When the planar side 124 of the insertion section 112 aligns with the planar side 95 of the candle holder 92, the insertion section 112 can be inserted into the candle holder's internal chamber 98, and as a result, the first ridge 104 and the second ridge 108 can be recognized as receiving the first notch 115 and the second notch 125 of the insertion section 112, respectively. As best shown in Figures 24, 25, and 27, this arrangement secures the pack body 110 to the candle holder 92 and, by extension, to the candle body 12. Any combination of the first and second ridges and the first and second notches can be recognized as being associated with the corresponding candle holder 92 and pack body 110.

[0099] The insertion section 112 can further define an internal chamber 123 capable of housing a guide member 116 extending downward from the upper wall 114 along the longitudinal axis of the pack body 110. As best shown in Figures 17 and 18, the guide member 116 includes a longitudinal bore 118 and one or more channels 120 communicating with the bore 118. The bore 118 and channels 120 can further be defined through the upper wall 114. A support wall 122 can extend between the insertion section 112 and the guide member 116 to provide rigidity and support to the guide member 116.

[0100] The base section 126 may have a larger diameter or width than the insertion section 112, thereby providing a ledge 128 that can support the bottom side of the candle body 12. As best shown in Figure 18, the ledge 128 may include one or more raised notches 129 defined in or through it.

[0101] The base section 126 may have an open internal chamber 127 that communicates with the internal chamber 123 of the insertion section 112. One or more fastener posts 130, access ports 132, and guide structures or fixing structures may be included in the base section 126.

[0102] Referring to Figures 19 to 21, the core engagement member 140 is configured to be slidably receivable in the bore 118 for movement within it. The core engagement member 140 includes one or more guides 142 extending outward from it, each configured to be slidably receivable in the channel 120. It can be recognized that the configurations of the core engagement member 140 and the guides 142 correspond to the configurations of the bore 118 and the channel 120.

[0103] The upper side or edge 144 of the core engagement member 140 may include or receive a magnet 146. The magnet 146 is configured to engage with the core plate 72 of the core 70, so that any movement of the core engagement member 140 is converted to the core 70. It can be recognized that, instead of the magnet 146 and core plate 72, any other removable engagement structure or means can be used to achieve a removable connection between them.

[0104] The bottom side or wall 148 of the core engagement member 140 may include, or receive, a threaded member 152 characterized by a through-defined threaded hole that communicates with the internal chamber 150 of the core engagement member 140. The threaded member 152 does not need to be a separate member fixed to the bottom wall 148, but can instead be a threaded hole defined through the bottom wall 148.

[0105] Referring to Figures 22 and 23, the pack base assembly 160 can be received in the open internal chamber 127, or even the internal chamber 123, of the base section 126, as needed. Furthermore, the pack base assembly 160 can be secured to the base section 126 using fasteners that can engage with fastener posts 130.

[0106] The pack base assembly 160 may include a base 162 characterized by a perimeter 164, one or more fastener members 166, and one or more guide ridges 168. The perimeter 164 coincides with and engages with the bottom edge of the base section 126. When the pack base assembly 160 is assembled with the pack body 110, one or more fastener members 166 are aligned with the fastener post 130. The fastener can be used with the fastener members 166 and the fastener post 130, as best shown in Figures 24 and 27. Furthermore, the guide ridges 168 extend from the base 162 in configuration and number that coincide with the raised notches 129 of the ledge 128. When assembled, the guide ridges 168, by receiving the raised notches 129, align with the base section 126 to guide the pack base assembly 160, and further prevent rotation of the pack base assembly 160 while simultaneously assembling with the pack body 110.

[0107] When the pack base assembly 160 is assembled to the base section 126, the motor mount section 170 extends from the base 162 so as to be receivable into the open internal chamber 127 of the base section 126. The upper wall 172 of the motor mount section 170 includes motor mounts 174 configured in a spaced-out relationship. Each of the motor mounts 174 may include a reinforcing member 176 that provides support and rigidity to the motor mount 174.

[0108] The motor 184 is located between the motor mounts 174 and can be fixed therein, and the power screw 186 is operably engaged with the shaft of the motor 184.

[0109] The motor mount section 170 can be configured to include a battery 188 and any other electronic components necessary for the operation of the technology of the present invention.

[0110] The base panel 180 is removable and fixedly associated with the base 162 and may allow access to the interior of the motor mount section 170. As best shown in Figures 24 and 27, one edge of the base panel 180 may be pivotably associated with a first side of the base 162 defining the interior of the motor mount section 170, and a second edge of the base panel 180 may include a biasing latch 182 that is engageable with the second side of the base 162. The latch 182 is configured to lock the base panel 180 in a closed position, and at the same time, allows a user to operate the latch 182 to unlock the base panel 180, allowing the base panel 180 to pivot and open or be removed.

[0111] The extinguishing candle system 10 assembled with the alternative pack assembly 90 is best shown in Figures 24–27. When assembled, the candle holder 92 is held in the candle cavity 16, and as a result, the wick 70 passes through the opening 100 to pass through the wick bore 14, thereby allowing a section of the wick 70 to be exposed out of the candle body 12 for use or pulled into the wick bore 14 to extinguish it.

[0112] The pack body 110 can be assembled to the candle holder 92 by inserting the insertion section 112 into the internal chamber 98, at which point the planar sides 95 and 124 of the candle holder 92 and the pack body 110 are aligned. As best shown in Figure 25, the continuation of insertion of the insertion section 112 engages with the first and second protrusions 104 and 108, respectively, with their corresponding first and second notches 115 and 125, thereby locking the pack body 110 to the candle holder 92. The first and second protrusions 104 and 108 and the first and second notches 115 and 125 can be recognized as corresponding engageable members.

[0113] Next, the core engagement member 140 can be inserted into the bore 118 of the guide member 116, and as a result, the magnet 146 can engage with the core plate 72.

[0114] The pack base assembly 160 can be fixed to the base section 126 of the pack body 110, thereby receiving the power screw 186 in the bore 118 and engaging with the threaded member 152 by thread. The core engagement member 140 can recognize that it can be assembled to the power screw 186 before insertion into the bore 118.

[0115] During operation, as best shown in Figure 27, the motor 184 can operate to rotate the power screw 186 in either direction, and this rotation is converted into linear motion of the core engagement member 140 inside the bore 118 of the guide member 116. This linear motion of the core engagement member 140 results in linear motion of the core 70 through magnetic engagement between the magnet 146 and the core plate 72.

[0116] If extinguishing action is required, the motor 184 can operate in the appropriate direction, causing the power screw 186 to rotate so that it moves the wick engaging member 140 in a direction that will move the wick 70 into the candle body 12.

[0117] The modular and detachable configuration of the wick 70, candle holder 92, pack body 110, wick engaging member 140, and pack base assembly 160 can be recognized as enabling easy assembly and / or reuse of the pack assembly 90 with other candles.

[0118] A computer or controller system 200 (see Figure 28) may be included in the pack assembly 90 and may be associated with a base assembly 160 that operably communicates with the battery 188 and the motor 184. The computer or controller system 200 may include and / or communicate with various electrical components, sensors, controllers, etc. For example, the computer or controller system 200 may include a printed circuit board (PCB) featuring a timer and / or an angle sensor or tilt sensor 208, which are configured to detect or determine the tilt or inclination direction of the candle body 12, or a wireless, internet, or Bluetooth interface.

[0119] Figure 28 is a schematic representation of a computer or controller system 200 that is available or implementable using the technology of the present invention and / or peripheral components of any of the technology of the present invention. The computer or controller system 200 may be part of an exemplary machine, which is one or more examples of the computers referred to herein, and which can execute a set of instructions to cause the machine to perform one or more of the methods described herein. In various exemplary embodiments, the machine may operate as a standalone device or be connected to other machines (e.g., a network). In a network deployment, the machine may act as a server or client machine in a server-client network environment, or as a peer machine in a peer-to-peer (or distributed) network environment. A machine can be a personal computer (PC), tablet PC, set-top box (STB), personal digital assistant (PDA), mobile phone, portable music player (e.g., a portable hard drive audio device such as a Moving Picture Expert Group Audio Layer 3 (MP3)), web equipment, network router, switch or bridge, or any machine capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify the actions to be taken by that machine. Furthermore, although only a single machine is shown, the term “machine” should be understood to also include any collection of machines that individually or collectively execute a set of instructions (or sets of instructions) to perform one or more of the methods described herein.

[0120] An exemplary computer or controller system 200 includes a processor or a plurality of processors 202 (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or both), and memory 206, which communicate with each other via a bus 232. The computer or controller system 200 may further include, or be operable with, audio devices or inputs (e.g., a speech recognition unit or a biometric matching unit, a microphone) 212, a battery unit 26, a video display 216 (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD), a touch-sensitive display), a charging port 220, lights 228, and / or startup input devices 230 (e.g., a keyboard, keypad, touch, touch display, buttons, switches). The computer or controller system 200 may also include additional sensors and / or inputs 218 (e.g., motion sensors, thermal sensors, distance sensors), a drive unit 222 (also called a disk drive unit), a signal generating device 226 (e.g., a speaker), a tilt sensor 208, a radio or infrared (IR) receiver 210, and a network interface device 214. The computer or controller system 200 may further include a data encryption module (not shown) for encrypting data. The drive unit 222 includes a computer or machine-readable medium 224 in which one or more sets of instructions and data structures (e.g., instructions 204) that embody or utilize one or more of the methods or functions described herein are stored. Instructions 204 may also reside entirely or at least partially within the memory 206 and / or within the processor 202 during their execution by the computer or controller system 200. The memory 206 and processor 202 may constitute a machine-readable medium.

[0121] Instruction 204 may further be transmitted or received over a network via network interface device 214 using one of several well-known transfer protocols (e.g., several hypertext transfer protocols (HTTP)). Although the exemplary embodiments show machine-readable medium 224 as a single medium, the term “computer-readable medium” should be understood to include one or more mediums (e.g., centralized or distributed databases, and / or associated caches and servers) that store one or more sets of instructions. The term “computer-readable medium” should also be understood to include any medium capable of: storing, encoding, or holding a set of instructions for execution by a machine, causing the machine to perform one or more of the methods of the Application, or storing, encoding, or holding data structures used by or associated with such a set of instructions. Thus, the term “computer-readable medium” should be understood to include, but are not limited to, solid memory, optical and magnetic media, and carrier signals. Such media may also include, but are not limited to, hard disks, floppy disks, flash memory cards, digital video disks, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), and the like. The exemplary embodiments described herein may be implemented on a computer, within hardware, or in an operating environment including software installed in a combination of software and hardware.

[0122] An exemplary machine system of the technology of the present invention includes a computer or controller system 200 used in combination with and / or in conjunction with components of the technology of the present invention. Exemplary components may include, or are not limited to, a processor 202, memory 206, a network interface device 214, a display 216, an input device(s) 218, and / or a drive unit 222.

[0123] The computer or controller system 200 and / or any of the above electronic components can be housed in either a pack assembly or a pack base assembly.

[0124] The computer or controller system 200 may include, or be able to recognize, additional components such as flame suppression sensors, heat sensors, or temperature sensors, which are configured or configurable to determine excessive flame or heat from the wick 70.

[0125] It can be recognized that any one or any combination of the pack assemblies of the technology of the present invention can be designed in a machine system to wind the wick 70 at pre-set time intervals or according to a pre-set inclination angle of the candle body 12. Pre-set time intervals may include test mode, 1-hour, 2-hour, 3-hour, and 4-hour settings.

[0126] A test mode may be used to allow the user to verify that the pack assembly is functioning correctly. The test mode may allow the candle body 12 to burn for a short predetermined time, then be wound up by the wick 70 to extinguish the flame, after which the pack assembly may turn the wick 70 upside down, allowing the wick 70 to extend about 1 / 4 inch above the surface of the melted candle wax, and allowing the wick 70 to be relit.

[0127] Any one or any combination of the pack assemblies may include a switch that allows the user to set the length of time the candle body 12 burns. When the preset time is reached, the pack assembly can automatically wind the wick 70 far enough away to extinguish the flame, and then, while the wax is still liquid, the wick 70 is turned upside down, so that the wick 70 extends 1 / 4 inch above the surface of the melted wax, thereby allowing the wick 70 to be relit multiple times until the candle is discharged. In the example, the timer function can be overridden by a voice command, for example, by saying "extinguish flame" to extinguish the candle on request.

[0128] Either the pack assembly or the accompanying candle body 12, or any combination thereof, can be designed in various sizes and shapes. The pack assembly may be a battery designed and operated to be reusable on a candle designed to fit the size and shape of the pack assembly.

[0129] Each candle design and its accompanying pack assembly can be sold together as a unit / kit or as separate products. Any one or any combination of pack assemblies can be recognized as reusable with replacement candles, each assigned an SKU number for each pack assembly design.

[0130] Furthermore, the wick 70 may be a replaceable wick that consumers can purchase, and it may be recognizable as burning in various colors, patterns, and / or effects. The wick 70 can be easily removed and replaced by the user, allowing the user to choose a wick that produces their desired flame color, pattern, and / or effect. These wicks may have threads or related materials inside, allowing the wick to burn in various colors, patterns, and / or effects. The material may, but is not limited to, fine metal filaments. If necessary, replaceable wicks can be sold as an add-on product that consumers can purchase.

[0131] The size and / or number of teeth of the drive gear 44, spur gears 46, 50, pinion gears 54, 56, and / or rack gear 74 can be configured to provide a specific travel distance for the core 70.

[0132] By example, any or all embodiments of the technology of the present invention may, in part, include any or a combination of the following advantageous features, namely, side locks 30 and lock bars 34 for securing any or a combination of pack assemblies 20, 20', 90 to the candle body 12; spur gears and pinion gears or power screws for transferring linear motion to the wick 70 and increasing torque to a target range; metal washers for protecting any or a combination of pack assemblies 20, 20', 90 from damage; a wick stroke that may be about 10 mm; a 360-degree responsive tilt sensor 208 that can be integrated with the PCB of a computer or controller system 200; and a wick bore 14 tolerance of 0.6 mm for moving the wick 70 within the candle body 12.

[0133] In the example, microphone 212 is used to communicate with processor 202, receive voice commands, and operate the functions of the technology of the present invention. For example, a user may speak a voice command such as, but is not limited to, "retract the wick" or "extinguish the flame," and microphone 212 can detect the command and send a signal / data to processor 202 for processing. Processor 202 can then appropriately activate motors 40,184 based on the voice command and the associated instruction 204.

[0134] In the alternative design, the wick 70 can be wound onto one or any combination of the pack assemblies 20, 20', or 90, and then the wick 70 can be removed by activating a pack removal switch that engages and disengages the directional reels of the motors 40, 184, allowing the pack assemblies to be left in a freewheeling state. This allows one or any combination of the pack assemblies 20, 20', or 90 to be removed from the candle body 12 without damaging any of the reels, gears, power screws, screws, or motors 40, 184 within the pack assemblies.

[0135] After the pack assembly is removed from the candle body 12, the wick 70 can be further attached to the pack assembly. Activating the wick release switch releases the first 1 / 4 inch portion of the activated wick 70, thereby allowing the pack assembly 20 to be reused on a different candle.

[0136] Any one or any combination of the pack assemblies 20, 20', and 90 may be designed with a safety feature that, if the candle is tilted at a predetermined or preset angle (angle of inclination), automatically winds or retracts the wick 70, extinguishing the flame, thereby reducing the possibility of fire if the candle body 12 is tipped over by a child, pet, or some other cause. After this automatic retraction and preset time, the motors 40, 184 can reverse rotation so that the wick 70 extends out of the wick bore 14, allowing the candle to be reused. Furthermore, if the battery voltage drops to a low level, an audible signal may be activated to signal to the user that the battery life is short, and immediately thereafter, the motors 40, 184 may be activated to self-extinguish the wick, thus disabling all previous settings before the battery life ends. As described above, this safety feature may include a mercury-type switch, etc., that communicates with the motors 40, 184 or a computer or controller system 200.

[0137] Any one or any combination of the pack assemblies 20, 20', 90 and candle bodies 12 can be adapted for use with candles in glass jars, long and narrow tapered candles, multi-wick candles, multi-color and scented candles, and virtually all candle shapes and sizes.

[0138] During use, the user can understand that they can pre-set the duration to automatically extinguish the wick flame, or they can manually activate the motor by operating a button, or the motor can operate automatically when the candle exceeds a pre-set tilt angle, or when it receives a signal from a remote or wireless device.

[0139] According to one embodiment, the technology of the present invention may include a flame-extinguishing candle system 10 for housing a wick 70 inside a candle 12. The flame-extinguishing candle system 10 may include pack assemblies 20, 20', 90 associated with the candle body 12. The pack assemblies 20, 20', 90 may include motors 40, 184 which are operably engaged with wick engaging members 74, 140, the wick engaging members 74, 140 which are operably engaged with the wick 70, causing the wick to move inside the candle body 12.

[0140] In another embodiment, the technology of the present invention may include a flame-extinguishing candle system 10 comprising pack bodies 60, 110, wick engaging members 74, 140, and pack base assemblies 22, 160. The pack bodies 60, 110 may be receivable in a cavity 16 defined in the candle 12. The pack bodies 60, 110 may include guide members 64, 116 and bores 65, 118 defined through the guide members. The wick engaging members 74, 140 may be slidably receivable in the bores 65, 118 of the guide members 64, 116. The wick engaging members 74, 140 may be operably engaged with the wick 70. The pack base assemblies 22, 160 may be attachable to the pack bodies 60, 110. The pack base assembly 22,160 may include a motor 40,184 which is operably engaged with a wick engaging member 74,140, ​​which gives rise to the linear motion of the wick engaging member 74,140, ​​resulting in the motion of the wick 70 within the candle 12.

[0141] In another embodiment, the technology of the present invention may include a flame-extinguishing candle system 10, which may include a candle 12, a wick 70, pack bodies 60, 110, wick engaging members 74, 140, pack base assemblies 22, 160, motors 40, 184, and a computer or controller system 200. The candle 12 may include a wick bore 14 defined along the longitudinal axis of the candle and a bottom cavity 16 defined in the bottom section of the candle and communicating with the wick bore. The wick 70 may be configured to be slidably received through the wick bore 14. A wick plate 72 can be associated with the wick 70. The pack bodies 60, 110 may be receivable in the bottom cavity 16 of the candle 12. The pack bodies 60, 110 may include guide members 64, 116 and bores 65, 118 defined through the guide members 64, 116. The wick engaging members 74,140 may be slidably receivable in the bores 65,118 of the guide members 64,116. The wick engaging members 74,140 may be operably engaged with the wick plate 72. The pack base assembly 22,160 may be mountable on the pack body 60,110. The pack base assembly 22,160 may be configured to support the motors 40,184, which may be operably engaged with the wick engaging members 74,140, ​​thereby providing the linear motion of the wick engaging members 74,140 that gives rise to the motion of the wick 70 within the candle 12. The computer or controller system 200 may be configured to control the motors 40,184 based on one or a combination of time signals, activation signals, sensor signals, voice commands, wireless activation signals, and network activation signals.

[0142] In yet another aspect, the technology of the present invention may include a method for extinguishing a wick flame using a flame-extinguishing candle system 10. This method may include the step of controlling motors 40,184 to operably drive wick engaging members 74,140 of pack assemblies 20,20',90 associated with the candle 12. The wick engaging members 74,140 are operably engaged with the wick 70, resulting in the movement of the wick within the candle 12.

[0143] In yet another embodiment, the technology of the present invention may further include a flame-extinguishing candle system 10 comprising a first pinion gear 54, a second pinion gear 56, a motor 40, a rack gear 74, and a wick 70. The second pinion gear 56 is spaced apart from the first pinion gear 54, and a gap can be defined between the pinion gears. The motor 40 can be configured to operably drive the first pinion gear 54 and the second pinion gear 56, so that the first pinion gear 54 and the second pinion gear 56 rotate in opposite directions. The rack gear 74 may be receptive in the gap and may be engageable with the first pinion gear 54 and the second pinion gear 56, so that the rotation of the first pinion gear 54 and the second pinion gear 56 results in linear motion of the rack gear 74. The wick 70 can be associated with a rack gear 74 for movement together with the wick 70 by passing through a wick bore 14 defined in the candle or candle body 12.

[0144] In yet another embodiment, the technology of the present invention may include a flame-extinguishing candle system 10 comprising a candle or candle body 12, a wick assembly, and pack assemblies 20, 20'. The candle body 12 may include a wick bore 14 defined along the longitudinal axis of the candle body 12, and a bottom cavity 16 defined in the bottom section of the candle body 12 and communicating with the wick bore 14. The wick assembly may include a wick 70, a wick plate 72, and a rack gear 74. The wick 70 may be configured to be slidably receivable through the wick bore 14. The wick plate 72 may be receivable in the bottom cavity 16. The rack gear 74 can be attached to the wick plate 72. The pack assembly may be receivable in the bottom cavity 16 of the candle body 12. The pack assembly may include a first spur gear 46 and a first pinion gear 54, both of which are fixed to a first shaft 48. The second spur gear 50 and the second pinion 56 are both fixed to the second shaft 52. The second spur gear 50 may be engageable with the first spur gear 46. The second pinion gear 56 may be spaced apart from the first pinion gear 54 and a gap may be defined between the pinion gears configured to receive the rack gear 74. The motor 40 may be configured to operate to drive the first spur gear 46. A computer or controller system 200 may be configured to control the motor 40 based on one or a combination of time signals, start signals, and sensor signals. The rack gear 74 may be engageable with the first pinion gear 54 and the second pinion gear 56, so that the rotation of the first pinion gear 54 and the second pinion gear 56 results in the linear motion of the rack gear 74.

[0145] In yet another aspect, the technology of the present invention may include a method for extinguishing a wick flame using a flame-extinguishing candle system 10. This method may include the step of controlling a motor 40 to operably drive a first pinion gear 54 and a second pinion gear 56 to linearly move a rack gear 74 engaged and positioned between the pinion gears. The rack gear 74 can be configured to bring linear motion to a wick 70 which can be slidably received through a wick bore 14 defined through the candle or candle body 12.

[0146] In some or all embodiments, the pack assemblies 20, 20', 90 may further include pack bodies 60, 110 that are receivable in a cavity 16 defined in the candle 12, and base assemblies 22, 160 that are attachable to the pack bodies and configured to support motors 40, 184.

[0147] In some or all embodiments, the motors 40,184 can be operably associated with a selected group consisting of gears 46,50,54,56 and power screws 186.

[0148] In some or all embodiments, the core engaging members 74, 140 can be configured to be driven by motors 40, 184 to provide linear motion to the core 70.

[0149] In some or all embodiments, the core engagement member 140 may include a screw member 152 that operably engages with a power screw 186 which is operably driven by a motor 184.

[0150] In some or all embodiments, the core engagement members 74,140 can be slidably received in bores 65,118 defined through guide members 64,116 of the pack body 60,110.

[0151] In some or all embodiments, the core engagement member 140 may further include one or more guides 142 extending outward from the core engagement member 140, each guide 142 being defined on the guide member 116 and configured to be slidably received in a channel 120 communicating with the bore 118.

[0152] In some or all embodiments, the core engagement member may include a magnet that is operably engaged with the core plate of the core.

[0153] In some or all embodiments, the pack assembly 90 may further include a candle holder 92 which is receivable in the cavity 16 of the candle 12 and is configured to receive the insertion section 112 of the pack body 110, with the base section 126 of the pack body supporting the bottom of the candle 12.

[0154] In some or all embodiments, when the insertion section 112 is inserted into the candle holder 92 over a predetermined distance, the candle holder 92 and the insertion section 112 may include corresponding engageable elements 104, 108, 115, 125 configured to secure the pack body 110 to the candle holder 92.

[0155] Some or all embodiments of the present invention may include a first spur gear 46 operably engaged with a drive gear 44 of a motor 40. The first spur gear 46 can be fixed to a first shaft 48 which is fixed to a first pinion gear 54. Some or all embodiments of the present invention may include a second spur gear 50 operably engaged with the first spur gear 46. The second spur gear 50 can be fixed to a second shaft 52 which is fixed to a second pinion gear 56.

[0156] In some or all embodiments, the first pinion gear 54 and the second pinion gear 56 may each include ledges 55 and 57 extending outward from their periphery. The ledges 55 of the first pinion gear 54 and 57 of the second pinion gear 56 may be configured to contact the rack gear 74 in the unlocked position.

[0157] Some or all embodiments of the technology of the present invention may include a core plate 72 attached to a core 70 and a rack gear 74.

[0158] Some or all embodiments of the technology of the present invention may include a pack assembly 20 which may include a bottom cover 22 and a top cover 60. The bottom cover 22 may be configured to support a motor 40, a first pinion gear 54, and a second pinion gear 56. The top cover 60 is attachable to the bottom cover 22 and can surround the motor 40, the first pinion gear 54, and the second pinion gear 56. In some or all embodiments, the bottom cover 22 may further include one or more side locks 30 extending from the bottom cover 22.

[0159] In some or all embodiments, when the top cover 60 and bottom cover 22 are assembled, the top cover 60 may include one or more side lock notches 62 configured to receive one or more side locks 30 internally. In some or all embodiments of the technology of the present invention, a lock bar 34 may be included, configured to be receivable into slots 32 defined in the side locks 30. The lock bar 34 may be configured to extend outside the pack assembly for insertion into the candle body 12.

[0160] In some or all embodiments, the top cover 60 may include a recessed section 64 defining an upper cavity 65 configured to slidably receive a core plate 72. The bore 63 may be defined to pass through the recessed section 64 configured to slidably receive a rack gear 74.

[0161] Some or all embodiments of the present invention may include a washer 80 that can be positioned between the upper wall of the top cover 60 and the upper cavity wall of the candle body 12 defining the bottom cavity 16.

[0162] In some or all embodiments, the pack assembly 20 may further include a U-shaped drive support structure 36, which is configured to rotatably support a first shaft 48 and a second shaft 52 and a first pinion gear 54 and a second pinion gear 56 located between parallel side walls that partially define the U-shaped drive support structure 36, with a first spur gear 43 and a second spur gear 50 located outside the parallel side walls.

[0163] Some or all embodiments of the technology of the present invention may include a computer or controller system 200 configured or configurable to control a motor 40,184 based on one or a combination of time signals, start signals, and sensor signals.

[0164] In some or all embodiments, the computer or controller system 200 can be configured to control the motors 40,184 based on a sensor selected from a group consisting of a tilt sensor or angle sensor 208 and a thermal sensor 218.

[0165] Some or all embodiments of the technology of the present invention may include a pack base 84 that is attachable to a pack assembly 20' and configured to communicate with the electrical components of the pack assembly 20'.

[0166] In some or all embodiments, the pack base 84 may include a metal washer 80 that fits on the upper side of the pack assembly and contacts the bottom side of the candle 12.

[0167] Embodiments of systems and methods relating to flame-extinguishing candles are described in detail, but it should be clear that modifications and variations thereof are possible, all of which fall within the true spirit and scope of the present invention. Next, with respect to the above description, it should be recognized that the optimal dimensional relationships of some parts of the present invention's technology, including variations in size, material, shape, form, function, and mode of operation, assembly, and use, are readily apparent and obvious to those skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those shown in the drawings and described herein are intended to be encompassed by the present invention's technology. For example, any suitable sturdy material may be used in place of those described above. Furthermore, while it is described that the wick is housed within the candle, it should be recognized that the systems and methods relating to flame-extinguishing candles described herein are also suitable for housing the wick of a stove's fuel-burning lamp.

[0168] Therefore, the foregoing should be considered merely an illustration of the principles of the art of the present invention. Furthermore, since several modifications and variations are readily apparent to those skilled in the art, we do not wish to limit the art of the present invention to the exact configurations and operations shown and described, and therefore, all suitable modifications and equivalents can be used so as to fall within the scope of the art of the present invention.

Claims

1. A flame-extinguishing candle system for moving a wick into a candle body, the flame-extinguishing candle system comprising a pack assembly associated with the candle body, the pack assembly including a motor operably engaged with a wick engaging member that causes the wick to move within a wick bore defined along the longitudinal direction of the candle body.

2. The aforementioned pack assembly further, A pack body that can receive the wax in a cavity defined in the candle body, A base assembly that can be attached to the pack body and is configured to support the motor, The flame suppression candle system according to claim 1, comprising:

3. The flame extinguishing candle system according to claim 2, wherein the motor is operably associated with a group selected from a group consisting of gears and a power screw.

4. The flame-extinguishing candle system according to claim 2, wherein the wick engaging member is driven by the motor and configured to provide linear motion to the wick in the wick bore.

5. The flame-extinguishing candle system according to claim 4, wherein the wick engaging member includes a screw member that operably engages with a power screw operably driven by the motor.

6. The flame-extinguishing candle system according to claim 5, wherein the wick engaging member is slidably received in a bore defined through a guide member of the pack body.

7. The flame-extinguishing candle system according to claim 6, wherein the wick engaging member further includes one or more guides extending outward from the wick engaging member, each guide being defined on the guide member and configured to be slidably received in a channel communicating with the bore.

8. The flame-extinguishing candle system according to claim 7, wherein the wick engaging member includes a magnet that is operably engaged with the wick plate of the wick.

9. The extinguishing candle system according to claim 2, wherein the pack assembly further comprises a candle holder, the candle holder being receivable in the cavity of the candle body and configured to receive the insertion section of the pack body, and the base section of the pack body supporting the bottom of the candle body.

10. The flame-extinguishing candle system according to claim 9, wherein the candle holder and the insertion section include corresponding engageable elements configured to secure the pack body to the candle holder when the insertion section is inserted into the candle holder over a predetermined distance.

11. The flame extinguishing candle system according to claim 1, further comprising a computer or controller system configured or configurable to control the motor based on one or a combination of a time signal, a start signal, and a sensor signal.

12. The flame extinguishing candle system according to claim 11, wherein the computer or controller system is configured or configurable to control the motor based on a sensor selected from a group consisting of a tilt sensor, an angle sensor, and a thermal sensor.

13. It is an anti-flame candle system, A pack body that can receive wax in a cavity defined in the candle body, comprising a guide member and a bore defined through the guide member, A core engaging member that is slidably receivable in the bore of the guide member, and which is operably engaged with the core, A base assembly that can be attached to the pack body, comprising a motor that is operably engaged with the wick engaging member and provides linear motion of the wick engaging member, which provides motion of the wick within a wick bore defined along the longitudinal direction of the candle body, A flame-extinguishing candle system equipped with this feature.

14. The flame-extinguishing candle system according to claim 13, wherein the wick engaging member includes a screw member that operably engages with a power screw operably driven by the motor.

15. The flame-extinguishing candle system according to claim 14, wherein the wick engaging member further includes one or more guides extending outward from the wick engaging member, each guide being defined on the guide member and configured to be slidably received in a channel communicating with the bore.

16. The flame-extinguishing candle system according to claim 15, wherein the wick engaging member includes a magnet that is operably engaged with the wick plate of the wick.

17. The flame-extinguishing candle system according to claim 13, further comprising a candle holder, the candle holder being receivable in the cavity of the candle body and configured to receive the insertion section of the pack body, the base section of the pack body supporting the bottom of the candle body.

18. The flame extinguishing candle system according to claim 13, further comprising a computer or controller system configured or configurable to control the motor based on one or a combination of a time signal, a start signal, and a sensor signal, wherein the computer or controller system is configured or configurable to control the motor based on a sensor selected from a group consisting of a tilt sensor, an angle sensor, and a thermal sensor.

19. It is an anti-flame candle system, A candle body comprising a wick bore defined along the vertical axis of the candle body, and a bottom cavity defined in the bottom section of the candle body and communicating with the wick bore, A core configured to be slidably received through the core bore, and which may include a core plate associated with the core, A pack body that can be received in the bottom cavity of the candle body, the pack body comprising a guide member and a bore defined through the guide member, A core engagement member that is slidably receivable in the bore of the guide member, and which is operably engaged with the core plate, A base assembly that can be attached to the pack body, wherein the base assembly is configured to support a motor, the motor is operably engaged with the wick engaging member, and the motor provides linear motion of the wick engaging member, which provides motion of the wick within the candle body, and the base assembly includes the motor, A computer or controller system configured or configurable to control the motor based on one or a combination of time signals, activation signals, sensor signals, voice commands, wireless activation signals, and network activation signals, A flame-extinguishing candle system equipped with this feature.

20. The flame-extinguishing candle system according to claim 19, further comprising a candle holder which is receivable in the bottom cavity of the candle body and configured to receive the insertion section of the pack body, the base section of the pack body supporting the bottom of the candle body, and the wick engaging member which includes a screw member which operably engages with a power screw which is operably driven by the motor.

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