The present invention relates to a lighter which a user actuates by at least two different modes of operation. In the first mode, a plunger member is positioned to allow a biasing member to oppose movement of an actuating assembly so that a user releases fuel and ignites the lighter only if a high-actuation-force is applied to the actuator. In this first mode, the lighter resists operation by unintended users by requiring a user to have a predetermined level of strength to actuate the lighter. In the second mode, the plunger member is moved to a different position so that the biasing member does not oppose movement of the actuating assembly to the same extent as the first mode so that a user may release fuel and ignite the lighter if a low-actuation-force is applied to the actuator. Moving the plunger member from the first position to the second position preferably requires the user to have a predetermined level of cognitive abilities and/or physical characteristics in order to resist use by unintended users. The lighter further includes a pivotal wand assembly. The wand assembly is operatively associated with a cam follower to allow only partial depression of an actuator when the wand assembly is in a closed position. Full depression of the actuator increases difficulty when the wand assembly is partially or fully extended.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention generally relates to lighters such as pocket lighters used to light cigarettes and cigars, or utility lighters used to ignite candles, barbecue grills, fireplaces and campfires, and more particularly to such lighters which resist inadvertent operation or undesirable operation by unintended users.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Lighters used for igniting tobacco products, such as cigars, cigarettes, and pipes, have developed over a number of years. Typically, these lighters use either a rotary friction element or a piezoelectric element to generate a spark near a nozzle which emits fuel from a fuel container. Piezoelectric mechanisms have gained universal acceptance because they are simple to use. U.S. Pat. No. 5,262,697 (“the '697 patent”) to Meury discloses one such piezoelectric mechanism, the disclosure in the '697 patent is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

Lighters have also evolved from small cigarette or pocket lighters to several forms of extended or utility lighters. These utility lighters are more useful for general purposes, such as lighting candles, barbecue grills, fireplaces and campfires. Earlier attempts at such designs relied simply on extended actuating handles to house a typical pocket lighter at the end. U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,259,059 and 4,462,791 contain examples of this concept.

Many pocket and utility lighters have had some mechanism for resisting undesired operation of the lighter by young children. Often, these mechanisms are on/off switches which may shut off the fuel source or may prevent movement of an actuator, such as a push-button, on the lighter. On/off switches which a user positively moves between “on” and “off” positions can be problematic. For example, an adult user may forget to move the switch back to the “off” position after use and thereby render the feature ineffective.

Other pocket and utility lighters include a spring-biased blocking latch which arrests or prevents movement of the actuator or push-button. U.S. Pat. No. 5,697,775 to Saito and U.S. Pat. No. 5,145,358 to Shike, et al., disclose examples of such lighters.

There remains a need for lighters which resist inadvertent operation or undesirable operation by unintended users, but which provide each intended user with a consumer-friendly method of operating the lighters so that the lighters appeal to a variety of intended users.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a lighter having a moveable wand assembly. The lighter includes a housing having a supply of fuel, an actuating member moveable to selectively ignite the fuel, and a moveable wand assembly. According to one embodiment, the wand assembly may be operatively associated with the actuating member such that when the wand assembly may be in a first position, the actuating member may be immobilized sufficiently to prevent ignition of the fuel. The actuating member may be immobilized sufficiently to prevent release of the fuel and/or to prevent creation of a spark. When the wand assembly is in at least one second position, the actuating member is moveable sufficiently to ignite the fuel. When the wand assembly is positioned between the first and second positions, the actuating member may or may not be moveable sufficiently to ignite the fuel. The actuating member may or may not be part of an actuating assembly. Preferably, the actuating member is a trigger. In one preferred embodiment, the actuating member may be substantially immobilized when the wand assembly is in the first position. The wand assembly is preferably pivotally coupled to the housing, and the actuating member is preferably slidable.

The lighter may further include a cam follower having a first portion for interacting with a camming surface formed on the wand assembly, and a second portion for interacting with the actuating member. The cam follower may be biased toward the camming surface. Pivoting of the wand assembly causes the camming surface to move the cam follower. When the wand assembly is in the first position, the cam follower second portion immobilizes the actuating member sufficiently to prevent ignition of the fuel. When the wand assembly is in the second position, the cam follower second portion may allow the actuating member to move sufficiently to ignite the fuel.

The camming surface may include a first detent for engaging the cam follower first portion when the wand assembly is in the first position. The camming surface further may include a second detent spaced from the first detent for providing resistance against movement of the wand assembly. When the wand assembly is in the second position, the cam follower first portion engages the second detent. The first position may be a closed position and the second position may be an extended position, and the camming surface may further include at least one or more additional detent(s) between the first and second detents for engaging the cam follower first portion when the wand assembly is in at least one or more intermediate position(s).

According to another embodiment of the present invention, the wand assembly may be pivotally coupled to the housing, and have a high-wand-force position and a low-wand-force position for rotating the wand assembly. A pivoting force applied to a point on the wand assembly and sufficient to pivot the wand assembly is greater when the wand assembly is in a high-wand-force position than a pivoting force applied to the point and sufficient to pivot the wand assembly when in the low-wand-force position. The lighter may further include a cam follower operatively associated with the housing that includes a first engaging portion, and the wand assembly may include a second engaging portion for engaging the first engaging portion. The first engaging portion may be an outward protrusion and the second engaging portion may be an indentation or vice versa. In the high-wand-force position, the first and second engaging portions contact, and in the low-wand-force position, the first and second engaging portions are out of contact. Preferably, there is at least one high-wand-force position and at least one low-wand-force position located between the closed and extended positions of the wand assembly. At least one additional high-wand-force position may be located at an extended and/or closed position of the wand assembly. Alternatively, at one additional low-wand-force position may be located at the extended and/or closed positions.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, the wand assembly may be releasably positionable in at least one intermediate position between the closed position and the extended position. The cam follower releasably positions the wand assembly in the at least one intermediate position. The wand assembly may also be releasably positionable in the extended and/or closed positions. The housing defines a longitudinal axis and the wand assembly pivots about a transversely extending pivot axis that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and at least a portion of the wand assembly is located between first and second sides of the housing.

According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the actuating member requires a first actuating force when the wand assembly is in the first position, and a second, greater actuating force when the wand assembly is in the second position. The actuating member includes a first surface and the cam follower second portion includes a second surface, and the first and second surfaces are capable of releasable engagement. The first and second surfaces may be substantially vertical. Alternatively, the first and second surfaces may be angled. In this manner, an engagement force between the cam member and the actuating member may vary.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the lighter includes an ignition assembly for igniting fuel, an actuator member operable to selectively actuate the ignition assembly, and a conduit extending through the wand assembly. The conduit includes a tube defining a channel for conveying the fuel from the supply to the nozzle. A coiled wire is received in the channel and is electrically connected to the ignition assembly and the nozzle. The lighter may further include an insulated wire electrically connecting the ignition assembly to a metal wand, which insulated wire may be at least partially coiled around the tube.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a lighter includes at least one member fluidly that connects the fuel supply to the nozzle and electrically connects the ignition assembly to the nozzle. The lighter includes a wand assembly that pivots about a pivot axis, and the at least one member is spaced from the pivot axis and extends at least partially through the wand assembly. The wand assembly defines an aperture spaced from the pivot axis, and the at least one member passes through the aperture. Preferably, the aperture is an arcuate slot. The at least one member may be a conduit for transmitting fuel with a wire therein and/or a partially insulated wire.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Turning toFIG. 1, an embodiment of a utility lighter2constructed in accordance with the present invention is shown with the understanding that those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize many modifications and substitutions which may be made to various elements. While the invention will be described with reference to a utility lighter, one of ordinary skill in the art could readily adapt the teaching to conventional pocket lighters and the like.

Lighter2generally includes a housing4which may be formed primarily of molded-rigid-polymer or plastic materials such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene terpolymer or the like. The housing4may also be formed of two-parts that are joined together by techniques known by those of ordinary skill in the art, such as ultrasonic welding.

Housing4includes various support members, such as support member4adiscussed below. Further support members are provided in the lighter2for various purposes, such as supporting components or directing the travel path of components. The housing4further includes a handle6, which forms a first end8and a second end9of the housing. A wand assembly10, as discussed in detail below, is pivotally connected to the second end9of the housing.

Referring toFIGS. 1,1A, and1B, handle6preferably contains a fuel supply unit11that includes a fuel supply container or main body12, a valve actuator14, a jet and valve assembly15, a spring16, a guide18, and a retainer20. The container12supports the other components of the fuel supply unit11and defines a fuel compartment12aand a chamber12b, and further includes a pair of spaced support members12cextending upward from the top edge thereof. The support members12cdefine openings12d. The fuel compartment12acontains fuel F, which may be compressed hydrocarbon gas, such as butane or a propane and butane mixture, or the like.

Referring toFIGS. 1A and 1B, the a valve actuator14rotatably supported on the compartment12below the support members12c. The valve actuator14is connected to a jet and valve assembly15that includes a jet or valve stem15aand an electrode15b. The electrode15bis optional. The jet and valve assembly15is a normally open valve design, and closed by the pressure of a spring member16on valve actuator14. Alternatively, a jet and valve assembly with a normally closed valve design can also be used.

A suitable fuel supply unit11is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,934,895 (“the '895 patent”), the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. An alternative arrangement for the fuel supply unit11that can be used is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,520,197 (“the '197 patent”) or U.S. Pat. No. 5,435,719 (“the '719 patent”), the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference in its entirety. The fuel supply units disclosed in the above patents can be used with all of the disclose components or with various components removed, such as windshields, latch springs, latches, and the like, as desired by one of ordinary skill in the art. Alternative arrangements of the fuel supply unit can be used.

Referring toFIG. 1A, the guide18with walls to define a slot18aand projections18b. When the lighter is assembled, the guide18is disposed between the support members12c, and the support members12cflex outward to accommodate the guide18. Once the projections18bare aligned with the openings12d, the support members12cmay return to their vertical, initial positions. The interaction between the projections18band the openings12dallow the guide18to be retained within the main body12.

Referring toFIGS. 1A and 1B, the retainer20with a front portion20athat defines a bore20band a L-shaped rearward portion20c. A fuel connector22is disposed on the top of jet15aand receives a fuel conduit23therein. The connector22, however, is optional and if not used the conduit23can be disposed on the jet15adirectly.

The retainer20properly positions fuel conduit23with respect to the jet and valve assembly15by receiving conduit23through the bore20bso that the conduit23is within the connector22. Details of the conduit23will be discussed below. The rearward portion20cof the retainer20is disposed within the slot18aof the guide18. The retainer20and guide18may be configured so that these components snap-fit together so that the conduit23is properly positioned with respect to the jet and valve assembly15. The guide18and retainer20are optional and the housing4or other components of the lighter can be used to support and position the connector22and the conduit23. In addition, the guide and retainer20may be configured differently so long as they function to locate connector22and conduit23to jet15a.

The container12, guide18, retainer20, and connector22may be made with plastic material. However, the valve actuator14, valve stem15a, and electrode15bshould be formed of electrically conductive materials. The fuel supply unit11can be a preassembled unit that may include the fuel supply container12, the jet and valve assembly15, and the biased valve actuator14. When the fuel supply unit11is disposed within the lighter, the housing support member4aaids in locating and maintaining the position of the unit11, as shown in FIG.1. The housing support member4baids in positioning the retainer20.

Referring again toFIG. 1, lighter2also includes an actuating member25which facilitates movement of the valve actuator14to selectively release fuel F. In this embodiment, the actuating member also selectively activates an ignition assembly26for igniting the fuel. Alternatively, the actuating member may perform either the fuel release or ignition function, and another mechanism or assembly may perform the other function. Actuating member25in the illustrated embodiment comprises a trigger. In an alternative embodiment, as discussed below, the actuating member can be part of an actuating assembly.

Refer toFIG. 1B, although not necessary for all aspects of this invention, an electric ignition assembly such as a piezoelectric mechanism is the preferred ignition assembly26. The ignition assembly may alternatively include other electronic ignition components, such as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 3,758,820 and U.S. Pat. No. 5,496,169, a spark wheel and flint assembly or other well-known mechanisms in the art for generating a spark or igniting fuel. The ignition assembly may alternatively include a battery having, for example, a coil connected across its terminals. The piezoelectric mechanism may be the type disclosed in the '697 patent. Piezoelectric mechanism26has been illustrated inFIG. 1Bschematically and particularly described in the '697 patent.

The piezoelectric unit26includes an upper portion26aand a lower portion26bthat slide with respect to each other along a common axis. A coil spring or return spring30is positioned between the upper and lower portions26a,26bof piezoelectric unit. The return spring30serves to resist the compression of piezoelectric unit, and when positioned in the actuating member25resists the depression of actuating member25. The lower portion26bof piezoelectric unit is received in cooperating chamber12bin fuel supply unit11.

The piezoelectric unit26further includes an electrical contact or cam member32fixedly connected to the upper portion26a. In the initial position, the portions26a, bare separated by a gap X. The cam member32is formed of a conductive material. The upper portion26ais coupled to actuating member25. Spark conductor or wire28partially insulated is electrically connected with the electrical contact29of the piezoelectric unit in a known manner.

As shown inFIG. 1, latch member34is on the top side of the handle6and the actuating member25is opposite the latch member34near the bottom side of the handle6. Referring toFIGS. 2-4, the latch member34generally includes an unsupported, movable, front end36which includes a downwardly extending boss36aand a rear end38pivotally fixed to a hinge40of the housing4. One of ordinary skill in the art can readily appreciate that latch member34also may be coupled to the housing in another manner such as in a cantilevered fashion, slidably or rotatably. When the latch member34is slidable a cam may be used therewith.

Referring toFIGS. 3 and 4, a leaf spring42includes a front end42aand a rear end42b. The leaf spring42is bent, as best seen inFIG. 4, so that the front end42ais spaced above the rear end42b. The shape of the leaf spring can be modified such as being planar depending on the arrangement of the components in the lighter and the necessary space considerations. Alternatively, the leaf spring may be disposed in front of latch member34. In addition, the leaf spring may be replaced with a coil spring, a cantilever spring or any other biasing member suitable for biasing the latch member34.

Referring toFIG. 5, the rear end42bof the leaf spring42is disposed within the housing4between support members4csuch that end42bis coupled to the housing4such that spring42operates substantially like a cantilevered member. Due to the configuration, dimensions, and material of the spring42, the front end42ais free to move and is biased upward to return the latch member front end36to its initial position, as shown in FIG.5. Thus, unsupported front end36of latch member34may be moved downwardly along with the front end42aof spring42.

Latch member34is preferably formed of plastic, while leaf spring42is preferably manufactured from a metal having resilient properties, such as spring steel, stainless steel, or from other types of materials. It should be noted that while leaf spring42is shown mounted to housing4it may alternatively be coupled to other components of the lighter.

Referring toFIG. 1, further details of the actuating member or trigger25, will now be discussed. Trigger25is preferably slidably coupled to housing4. The trigger25and housing4may be configured and dimensioned so that movement of the trigger forward or rearward is limited. One of ordinary skill in the art can appreciate that the trigger can alternatively be coupled or connected to the housing in another manner, such as in a pivotal, rotatable or cantilevered fashion. For example, the trigger can be a linkage system or formed of two pieces, where one piece is slidably coupled to the housing and the other piece pivots.

Turning again toFIG. 3, the trigger25includes a lower portion44and an upper portion46. Referring toFIGS. 3-4, the lower portion44includes a forward finger actuation surface48, a first chamber50(shown in phantom), and a second chamber52(shown in phantom). When the trigger25is disposed within the housing4, the finger actuation surface48extends from the housing so that it is accessible by a user's finger (not shown).

In this embodiment, the trigger25lower and upper portions are formed as a single piece. Alternatively, the upper and lower portions can be two, separate pieces coupled together or the trigger can be part of a multiple piece unit.

Referring toFIGS. 4 and 5, the first and second chambers50and52of the trigger25are horizontally disposed. The first chamber50is below the second chamber52, and the first chamber50is configured to receive a trigger return spring53. The spring53is disposed between the trigger25and a first spring stop portion or support member4dof the housing4. Referring toFIG. 4, the trigger25further includes an extension54extending rearwardly from the lower portion44. The second chamber52extends into the extension54. The second chamber52is configured to receive the ignition assembly26(as shown in FIG.1).

Referring toFIGS. 3 and 4, the upper portion46of the trigger25includes two L-shaped guides. In this embodiment the guides are side cutouts, represented by cutout56, in side wall57. The cutout56includes a first portion56aand a second portion56bin communication with the first portion56a. The second portion56bincludes a wall56csubstantially parallel to vertical axis V. Vertical axis V is perpendicular to longitudinal axis L and transverse axis T (shown in FIG.1). In this embodiment, the guides are cutouts but in another embodiment the trigger can have solid side walls and the guides can be formed on the inner surface of the side walls.

Referring toFIG. 3, the upper portion46of the trigger also includes a rear cutout58and slot60in an upper wall61of the trigger. The upper portion46further includes a forwardly extending engaging portion62with an engaging surface62a. The function of the engaging portion62will be discussed in detail below.

Referring toFIGS. 1 and 3, in this embodiment the upper portion46of the trigger25and the guides56form a portion of a dual-mode assembly. The dual-mode assembly also includes a plunger member63and a piston member74. In this embodiment, the lower and upper portions44and46of the trigger are formed as a single piece. In another embodiment, the lower and upper portions44and46can be formed as separate pieces and operatively connected together.

The plunger member63when installed in the lighter is disposed below the latch member34. The plunger member63is substantially T-shaped with a longitudinally extending body portion64and transversely extending head portions66. As best seen inFIG. 4, the head portions66have a planar, front surface66a. Surface66ais generally parallel to vertical axis V, when plunger member63is installed within trigger25.

Referring again toFIG. 3, the body portion64includes two transversely extending pins68at the rear end, a recess70on the upper surface, and a vertically extending projection72that extends from the bottom surface of the body portion64. Recess70is optional.

Referring toFIGS. 3 and 4, in alternative embodiments, the wall56cof the trigger25and the wall66aof the plunger member63can be configured differently. For example, walls may alternatively be angled with respect to vertical axis V. For example, walls66aand56cmay be angled to be substantially parallel to line A1, which is angularly offset from vertical axis V by angle β. Walls66a,56cmay alternatively be angled to be substantially parallel to line A2, which is angularly offset from vertical axis V by angle θ. Alternatively, wall56ccan be configured to include a V-shaped notch and the wall66acan include a V-shaped projection to be received in notch of wall56cor vice versa.

Referring toFIGS. 4 and 5, the piston member74includes a rear portion76and a front portion78. The rear portion76includes a vertical rear wall76afor contacting a high-force spring or biasing member80. The spring80is disposed between the wall76aand the second spring stop portion or support member4eof the housing4. Turning again toFIG. 4, the rear portion76further includes horizontal cutouts76bthat define a stop member76c. The cutouts76band stop member76callow the piston member74to be slidably mounted to rails (not shown) in the housing and to allow the piston member74to slide longitudinally a predetermined distance so that the plunger member63can function as discussed below.

Referring toFIGS. 3 and 4, the front portion78of the piston member74includes two spaced apart arms82. The arms82and front portion78define a cutout84that receives the pins68of the plunger member63. The cutout84and pins68of the plunger member63are configured and dimensioned to allow the plunger member63to pivot with respect to the piston member74, as discussed in detail below. In this embodiment, the plunger member63is pivotally connected to the piston member74, however in another embodiment the plunger member63can be fixedly connected to the piston member74but be a resiliently deformable.

The front portion78of piston member74further includes a downwardly extending support portion86that includes a horizontal platform88with an upwardly extending pin90. Referring toFIGS. 3 and 5, when the piston member74is assembled within the lighter, the platform88is disposed through the rear cutout58of trigger25, and the pin90may be aligned with the pin72of the plunger member63so that the pins72,90retain a plunger return spring92there between. The plunger member63contacts the bottom surface of upper wall61(as shown inFIG. 3) due to the return spring92that biases the plunger member upward toward an initial position.

Referring toFIG. 3A, a preferred embodiment of a plunger member63′ and a piston member74′ are shown for use with the lighter2of FIG.1. The plunger member63′ is similar to plunger member63except the body portion64′ includes a single central pin portion68′ and a slot68″. The piston member74′ is similar to piston member74except the front portion78′ of the piston member74′ includes a single arm82′ for defining a cutout84′ for pivotally supporting the pin68′ of the plunger member63′. When the plunger member63′ pivots downward the slot68″ receives the arm82′.

Operation of the actuating member25will be discussed in detail below with reference toFIGS. 6-8. With reference toFIG. 9, according to a further aspect of the lighter2, it may include a wand assembly10, the details of which will now be discussed. The wand assembly10may be movably coupled to housing4and/or formed separately from housing4. Wand assembly10may be pivoted between a first position or closed position, shown inFIGS. 1 and 10and a second or open or fully-extended position, shown in FIG.13. In the closed position, the wand assembly10is folded closely to housing4for convenient transportation and storage of lighter2. In the fully-extended position, the wand assembly10extends outward and away from housing4.

Referring toFIGS. 9 and 9A, wand assembly10includes wand101fixedly connected to a base member102. The wand101is a cylindrical tube of metal that receives the conduit23(as shown inFIG. 1) and wire28. The wand101also includes a tab101aformed integrally therewith near the free end of the wand. Alternatively, a separate tab may be associated with wand.

Referring again toFIGS. 9 and 9A, base member102is receivable in a recess104formed in the second end9of housing4. Recess104is located between the sides of housing4, and therefore locates wand assembly10between these sides.

Base member102includes two body portions106aandband is generally cylindrical and defines a bore108. According to the embodiment shown, body portions106aandbdefine channels106cso that when the body portions106aandbare joined the channels106cdefine a chamber107therein. One technique that can be used to join the base member pieces is ultrasonic welding. The present invention, however, is not limited to this configuration or construction of base member102.

Body portion106bdefines an aperture109therein, as best seen inFIG. 10aperture109is an arcuate slot, which extends through body portion106band is in communication with the channel106cand chamber107(as shown inFIG. 9) formed therein. The function of the arcuate slot109will be discussed in detail below.

Referring again toFIG. 9, housing4includes a pair of axles110aand110bformed on an inner surface112thereof. Axle110ais a male member and axle110bis a female member. These axles110a,bmay be configured and dimensioned so that they snap-fit together when joined. Alternatively, axles110a,bmay be joined by ultrasonic welding or other methods of joining known to one of ordinary skill in the art. In another alternative, the axles110a,bmay be spaced apart. Once assembled, axles110aand110bextend into bore108to pivotally couple wand assembly10to housing4. Axles110thus define a pivot axis P about which wand assembly10pivots. The pivot axis P is preferably transversely extending (i.e., extends from one side of the housing4to the other, not vertically extending from) and is perpendicular to a longitudinal axis L, however other orientations of pivot axis P are included within the present invention. Housing4may also includes spacers113formed on the inner surface112of housing4, to support base member102in recess104. Base member102may also include a pair of optional frictional members on opposite sides thereof. For example, a pair of rubber O-rings may be seated on opposite sides of base member and rest against spacers113. The optional frictional members may be used to provide resistance against pivoting of wand assembly10about pivot axis P.

Referring back toFIG. 1, the lighter housing4further includes a vertical wall4fat the front end9. The base member102further includes a projection106dextending generally radially therefrom. Cooperation between the wall4fand the projection106dprevents movement of the wand101in the direction W1substantially beyond a fully-extended position, shown in FIG.13. Furthermore, when wand assembly10is in the fully-extended position, a slight clearance may exist between vertical wall4fand projection106dof base member102.

Referring toFIGS. 10-14, lighter2may be provided with a cam member116that releasably positions or retains wand assembly10at various positions from the closed position (shown inFIG. 10) to the fully-extended position (shown FIG.13), and at various intermediate positions (shown inFIGS. 11 and 12) there between. Cam follower116also may prevent a user from moving, or more specifically sliding, trigger25sufficiently to ignite lighter2when wand assembly10is in the closed position ofFIG. 10, and continues to prevent such sufficient movement of the trigger25until wand assembly10has been pivoted to a predetermined position, such as a position about 40° from closed, as discussed below. Such immobilization of trigger25may prevent the ignition of the lighter by preventing fuel release, or flame ignition. Flame ignition may be prevented, for example, by preventing creation of a spark.

Referring toFIG. 15, cam follower116is rotatably mounted on a boss117(as best seen inFIG. 9) formed on housing4. The cam follower116includes a hub118and first and second engaging portions119,120extending from approximately opposite sides of the hub118. Hub118includes a bore118afor receiving boss117. First portion119includes a follower end122for interacting with a camming surface124formed on base member102(see FIG.9). Second portion120includes a second engaging surface126afor contacting first engaging surface62a(as shown in FIG.10), which may be formed on trigger25. While first and second surfaces62a,126aare shown as portions of hooks62,126, other forms of engaging surfaces known to one of ordinary skill in the art are also within the scope of the present invention. Hook126may alternatively engage with other elements of a lighter, such as a linking member, to prevent the creation a flame.

Referring again toFIG. 10, cam follower116is biased counter-clockwise by a biasing member128, shown as a compression spring, such that follower end122contacts and follows camming surface124. A seat130is formed on housing4and a lug132(shown inFIG. 15) is formed on first portion119, to position biasing member128in place. The seat130and lug132may be formed on the opposite members in an alternative embodiment. In addition, biasing member128, although shown as a coil spring, may alternatively be a torsion spring or a leaf spring, or any other type of biasing member known to be suitable by one of ordinary skill in the art. Follower end124may alternatively be biased against camming surface124by providing a cam follower116with resilient properties. For example, cam follower116may be a resilient member that is compressed in housing2such that follower end122is resiliently biased against camming surface124.

Camming surface124is an undulating surface and includes a series of first engaging portions134a-d, shown as detents134a-d. First engaging portions134a-dmay engage a follower end122of the first engaging portion119. Detents134a-dare shown as indentations formed in base member102, which may receive an outward protrusion on follower end122such that follower end122is displaced radially inward causing cam follower116to rotate clockwise about boss117. In the embodiment shown, the first detent134ais a sloped cutout larger than the remaining detents134b-d, which are concave cutouts. The detent134aincludes a sloped surface portion135to provide a low pressure angle as follower end122rides along camming surface124within the first detent134a. As a result of this low pressure angle, biasing member128is gradually compressed as base member102is rotated clockwise and follower end122moves from the first detent134atoward the second detent134b, thus providing a smooth and gradual feel to the user as the wand assembly10is pivoted away from the closed position. This low pressure angle also reduces wear and stresses on cam follower116and base member102.

The present invention is not to be limited to the shape and configuration of detents134a-dshown, and detents134a-dmay alternatively be, for example, bumps, ridges or protrusions formed on base member102that engage follower end122and displace it radially outward, causing cam follower to rotate counter-clockwise. The present invention is also not limited to the number and location of the detents shown. Furthermore, the present invention is also not limited to the shape and configuration of cam follower116and ends122and126. The configurations of the cam follower116, ends122,126and detents134a-dmay change, for example, to vary the force necessary to move the wand assembly10. The configurations of the cam follower116, ends122,126and detents134a-dmay also change, for example, to vary the force necessary to hold the wand assembly in any closed or extended position including the intermediate positions.

Still referring toFIG. 10, lighter2is shown with wand assembly10in the closed position. In this position, follower end122is biased into first detent134a, and located at a first radial distance R1from pivot axis P. Because first detent134aincludes sloped surface portion135, wand assembly10must be pivoted a predetermined distance, preferably about 40°, before hook126is disengaged from hook62. When wand assembly10is in the closed position, or pivoted less than the predetermined distance, hook126is aligned with hook62of trigger25such that hook walls62aand126awill engage upon depression of trigger25. Hooks62,126may be spaced apart or otherwise configured so that trigger25may be partially depressed, but not depressed sufficiently to ignite lighter2, or alternatively so that trigger25may not be depressed at all.

Hook walls62aand126acontact when hooks62,126engage one another. Hook walls62a,126aare shown oriented substantially parallel to vertical axis V, which is perpendicular to longitudinal axis L and pivot axis P. This configuration of the hooks62,126increases the force necessary to depress the trigger25sufficiently to ignite the lighter.

Hook walls62a,126amay alternatively be angled. For example, hook walls62a,126amay be angled to be substantially parallel to line B1, which is angularly offset from vertical axis V by angle γ, such that hooks62,126interlock. Such a configuration of the hooks would increase the force necessary to depress the trigger25sufficiently to ignite the lighter. The force necessary in the interlocked configuration may be greater than the force necessary in the vertical wall configuration.

Hook walls62a,126amay alternatively be angled to be substantially parallel to line B2, which is angularly offset from vertical axis V by angle δ. With application of a predetermined force, such hooks may deflect and disengage. Such a configuration of the hooks would increase the force necessary to depress the trigger25sufficiently to ignite the lighter, but to a lesser extent than if the walls62aand126awere vertical or at an angle γ.

According to the embodiment shown inFIG. 10of hooks62and126, trigger25may be depressed sufficiently to ignite lighter2when wand assembly10in the closed position, however a greater amount of force will be required to do so than when wand assembly10is pivoted to the extended position or one of the intermediate positions therebetween due to the interaction between hooks62and126. The amount of additional force required to depress trigger25sufficiently to ignite lighter2when wand assembly10is in the closed position may vary, for example, by varying the angle of hook walls62a,126aand/or varying the materials used to form hooks62,126.

Wand assembly10provides resistance against unintentional pivoting when in the closed position, because pivoting of wand assembly10toward the extended position, or in first direction W1would cause follower end122to ride along sloped surface135and compress biasing member128. Thus, in order to pivot wand assembly10when wand assembly10is positioned in the closed position, a user must apply enough force to wand assembly10to cause follower end122to ride on sloped surface135and compress biasing member128.

One of ordinary skill in the art will know and appreciate that the amount of force required may also be varied by selecting a biasing member128with a specific spring constant and/or modifying the geometry of camming surface124. As a result of this feature, the wand assembly10is releasably retained in the closed position. Referring toFIG. 1, the lighter2may further include optional projections (not shown) within recess4fof the housing4for releasably retaining the wand101in the closed position.

Referring toFIGS. 10A,11and12, lighter2is shown with wand assembly10located in partially-extended or intermediate positions. In the initial position, as shown inFIG. 10, the wand assembly has a central axis CW1. In the first intermediate position, as shown inFIG. 10A, wand assembly10is pivoted through a pivot angle of α of about 20°. The pivot angle α is defined between the wand101initial central axis CW1and the central axis CW20of the illustrated position with the follower end122(as shown in phantom) in the first detent134a.

In the second intermediate position, as shown inFIG. 11, wand assembly10is pivoted through a pivot angle of α of about 45°. The pivot angle α is defined between the wand101initial central axis CW1and the central axis CW45of the illustrated position with the follower end122in the second detent134b.

In the third intermediate position, as shown inFIG. 12, wand assembly10is pivoted through a pivot angle of α of about 90°. The pivot angle α is defined between the wand101initial central axis CW1and the central axis CW90of the illustrated position with the follower end122in the third detent134c.

In the fourth intermediate position, as shown inFIG. 14, wand assembly10is pivoted through a pivot angle of α of about 135°. The pivot angle α is defined between the wand101initial central axis CW1and the central axis CW135of the illustrated position with the follower end122between the third detent134cand the fourth detent134d.

In the fully-extended position, as shown inFIG. 13, wand assembly10is pivoted through a pivot angle of α of about 160°. The pivot angle α is defined between the wand101initial central axis CW1and the central axis CW160of the illustrated position with the follower end122in the fourth detent134d.

Referring toFIG. 10A, the cam follower116is shown in solid lines in its initial position, and shown in phantom lines in its radially displaced position. With the wand101at an angle of 20° from its initial position, follower end122(as shown in phantom) is in contact with sloped surface135within detent134aand cam follower116is slightly rotated about boss117, however hook126(as shown in phantom) and hook62are sufficiently aligned to engage upon depression of trigger25. Thus, in this position, the trigger25cannot be moved sufficiently to ignite lighter2without applying a force greater than the force sufficient to ignite the lighter in the remaining intermediate positions (shown inFIGS. 11-12and14) and the closed position (shown in FIG.13).

Referring toFIGS. 11-13, in these positions the follower end122is disposed within the second, third and fourth detents134b,134c,134d, respectively, which are all located at a second radial distance R2from pivot axis P. Second radial distance R2is greater than first radial distance R1(shown inFIG. 10) and, as a result, when wand assembly10is pivoted from the closed position, discussed above, to the intermediate and fully-extended positions, follower end122is displaced toward the first end8(shown inFIG. 1) of housing4, causing cam follower116to rotate clockwise about boss117and rotate hook126out of alignment with hook62. Thus, in these three positions, hook walls62aand126awill not engage upon full depression of trigger25. InFIG. 11, the cam follower116is shown in phantom lines in its initial position, and shown in solid lines in its radially displaced position. InFIGS. 12-14, the cam follower116is shown in its other radially displaced positions.

Wand assembly10exhibits variable resistance against pivoting. When wand assembly10is in one or more high-wand-force positions, such as, for example, the closed position (shown in FIG.10), extended position (shown in FIG.13), and certain intermediate positions (shown inFIGS. 11-12) between the closed and extended positions, follower end122contacts one of the detents134a-d. When in any of these high-wand-force positions, pivoting of wand assembly10causes first portion119to compress biasing member128as follower end122rides along camming surface124and is displaced radially outward by the second, third or fourth detents,134b,134c,134d, respectively. The force necessary for wand movement from the closed position is less that the force necessary for wand movement from the positions shown inFIGS. 11-13since the detent134ahas a sloped surface portion135. As mentioned above, a user must therefore exert sufficient force on wand assembly10to compress biasing member128and move follower122out of the detent, in order to pivot wand assembly10. Lighter2can thus be selectively and releasably positioned or retained and stabilized at whichever of the intermediate or extended positions is most suitable. For example, the intermediate positions may be suitable for lighting jarred candles, and the fully-extended position may be suitable for lighting a barbeque grill. One of ordinary skill in the art will know and appreciate that cam surface124may be provided with any number of detents134a-dspaced apart at various intervals to provide a wand assembly10with any number and combination of different closed, intermediate, and fully-extended positions. One of ordinary skill in the art will also know and appreciate that any number of high-force and low-wand-force positions may be located between the closed and fully-extended positions. Furthermore, the closed position may be a high-wand-force position or a low-wand-force position, and the fully-extended position may also be a high-force position or a low-wand-force position.

Referring toFIG. 14, lighter2is shown with wand assembly10in a low-wand-force position. In the low-wand-force position shown, wand assembly10is partially-extended and located at an angle of about 135° from the closed position. Follower end122is biased against camming surface124between the third detent134cand the fourth detent134dat point A, and is located at a third radial distance R3from pivot axis. Third radial distance R3is the nominal radius of camming surface124and thus, follower end122is located at third radial distance R3from pivot axis P whenever follower end122is not aligned with one of the detents134a-d. Third radial distance R3is larger than first radial distance R1and second radial distance R2, and as a result, positions follower end122such that hook126is rotated out of engagement with hook62. Thus, when follower end122contacts camming surface124between the detents134a-d, trigger25may be depressed to ignite the lighter. As discussed above, trigger25is therefore only immobilized sufficiently to prevent ignition of lighter2when wand assembly10is in or within about 40° of the closed position. In an alternative embodiment, this angle may vary.

Still referring toFIG. 14, wand assembly10is shown in a low-wand-force position, where follower end122contacts cam surface124between detents134candd. Follower end122is thus out of contact with detents134candd. In this position, less force is required to pivot wand assembly10than when in a high-wand-force position with follower end122received in detents134a-d. When in a low-wand-force position, wand assembly10still provides some resistance against pivoting because biasing member128is at its maximum state of compression and therefore biases follower end122against camming surface124, and creates frictional forces between follower end122and camming surface124upon pivoting of wand assembly10. Thus, when wand assembly10is in a low-wand-force position, a user must only apply a low force sufficient to overcome these frictional forces in order to pivot wand assembly10. The high-wand-force position requires more force to pivot wand assembly10than the low-wand-force position because the user must provide additional force to further compress biasing member128and move the follower122out of the detents134a-d. The wand assembly10is similarly in low-wand-force positions when the follower122is located between detents134aandband detents134bandc.

The geometry of the detents134and the follower end122may be varied to increase or decrease the amount of force required to pivot wand assembly10when in a high-wand-force position. For example, the detents may be relatively deep and of a size and shape that closely matches follower end122, thus requiring a large increase in force when in a high-wand-force position. Alternatively, the detents may be relatively shallow and oversized with respect to follower end122to provide a small increase in force when in a high-wand-force position.

Referring toFIGS. 10 and 13, movement of the wand101in a second direction W2opposite from the first direction W1allows the wand101to be moved toward the closed position. The wand101acts as discussed above when moved toward the closed position, in that it is releasably retained in the intermediate positions (shown inFIGS. 11 and 12) during movement.

Referring again toFIG. 9A, one embodiment of a conduit23for use with lighter2ofFIG. 1is shown. Conduit23includes a flexible tube140defining a channel142for fluidly connecting fuel supply unit11to nozzle143. Flexibly tube140thus transports fuel F (as shown inFIG. 1) from the fuel supply unit11to nozzle143. A suitable material for flexible tube140is plastic. An un-insulated, electrically conductive wire144is disposed in channel142, and extends from a first end146of tube140to a second end148of tube140. A suitable material for electrically conductive wire144is copper or the like. In this embodiment, the wire144may be at least partially coiled. The coils may be more closely packed in some sections than other sections. In an alternative embodiment, the wire144may not be coiled. Fuel connector22is coupled to first end146of tube140. Nozzle143is connected to second end148of tube140by nozzle connector147. Wire144thus acts as an electrical conductor to pass an electrical charge to nozzle143to generate a spark to ignite the fuel. The wire144may also reinforce flexible tube140to provide resistance to kinking.

The conduit23, connector147and nozzle143are supported within a pair of guide and insulator members145, one being shown. One the pair of members145are positioned around these components an isolator146is disposed over the end of the members145. Then the wand101is disposed thereon.

As shown inFIGS. 1,1A, and9A, the tube140is supported within bore20bof retainer20and joined to fuel connector22so that wire144extends through fuel connector22and is in electrical contact with electrode15b. The second end148of tube140is connected to nozzle143located adjacent the tip152of wand101. Tube140thus conveys fuel F from the fuel supply unit11to the nozzle143at tip152of wand assembly10via channel142. Nozzle143may optionally include a diffuser154, preferably in the form of a coil spring.

Once the wand assembly10is moved to the partially-extended or fully-extended positions, the lighter2may be operated in two different modes. Referring toFIG. 5, each mode is designed to resist undesired operation by unintended users in different ways. The first-operative mode or high-actuation-force mode (i.e., the high-force mode) and the second mode of operation or low-actuation-force mode (i.e., the low-force mode) are configured so that one mode or the other may be used. The high-force mode of lighter2provides resistance to undesirable operation of the lighter by unintended users based primarily on the physical differences, and, more particularly, the strength characteristics of unintended users versus some intended users. In this mode, a user applies a high-actuation or high-operative force to the trigger25in order to operate the lighter. Optionally, the force which is necessary to operate the lighter2in this mode may be greater than unintended users can apply, but within the range which some intended users may apply.

The low-force mode of lighter2provides resistance to undesirable operation of the lighter by unintended users based more on the cognitive abilities of intended users than the high-force mode. More specifically, the second mode provides resistance due to a combination of cognitive abilities and physical differences, more particularly the size characteristics and dexterity between intended users and unintended users.

The low-force mode may rely on the user operating two components of the lighter to change the force, from the high-actuation force to the low-actuation force, which is required to be applied to the trigger to operate the lighter. The low-force mode may rely on a user repositioning a plunger member63from a high-actuation-force position to a low-actuation-force position. The user may move the plunger member63by depressing a latch member34. After moving the plunger member, the user may operate the lighter by applying less force to the trigger. The low-force mode may rely on a combination of the physical and cognitive differences between intended and unintended users such as by modifying the shape, size or position of the latch member in relation to the trigger, or alternatively, or in addition to, modifying the force and distance required to activate the latch member and the trigger. Requiring the trigger and latch member to be operated in a particular sequence also may be used to achieve the desired level of resistance to unintended operation.

Referring toFIG. 5, one embodiment of a lighter2having a high-force mode and a low-force mode will be described. The lighter ofFIGS. 3 and 5has a movable plunger member63, operatively associated with latch member34.

In an initial or rest position in the high-force mode, as shown inFIG. 5, the plunger member63, and more particularly portions66are disposed within portion56bof cutout56defined in trigger25. The wall66aof plunger member63contacts vertical wall56cof slot56and is thus in a high-actuation-force position. When a user attempts to actuate trigger25, vertical wall66capplies a force to vertical wall66awhich applies a force to piston member74, which thru wall76amoves to compress spring80. Spring80applies a spring force FSwhich opposes movement of the trigger25. In the initial position, the spring80is uncompressed and has a length has a length of D1.

In this embodiment, the length D1is substantially equal to the space between support4dand piston member74end wall76a. In another embodiment, the length D1can be greater than this space so that the spring80is compressed and pre-loaded when installed or the length D1can be less than this space.

To actuate the lighter in this high-force mode, i.e., when the portions66are disposed in slot portion56b, a user applies at least a first trigger force FT1to the trigger25which is substantially equal to or greater than the sum of a spring force FS, and all additional opposing forces FOP. (not shown). The spring force FSmay comprise the force necessary to compress the spring80. The opposing forces FOPmay comprise the forces applied by the various other elements and assemblies which are moved and activated in order to operate the lighter, such as the spring force from the return spring30(seeFIG. 1B) in piezoelectric unit26, the force to compress spring53, and the frictional forces caused by the movements of the actuating member, and any other forces due to springs and biasing members which are part of or added to the actuating member or actuating assembly, fuel container, or which are overcome to actuate the lighter. The particular forces FOPopposing operation of the lighter would depend upon the configuration and design of the lighter and thus will change from one lighter design to a different lighter design. In this mode, if the force applied to the trigger is less than a first trigger force FT1, ignition of the lighter does not occur.

As shown inFIG. 6, when a user applies a force to the trigger25at least substantially equal to or greater than the first trigger force FT1, the trigger25moves the distance d, and the plunger member63and piston member74compress spring80.

This movement of the trigger25, with reference toFIG. 1B, causes the upper and lower portions26a,bof the piezoelectric unit26to compress together, thereby causing the cam member32on the upper portion26ato move, which moves the valve actuator14to act on jet and valve assembly15to move valve stem15aforward to release the fuel F from compartment12a. When the cam member32contacts the valve actuator14electrical communication occurs between the piezoelectric unit26and the wire144(as shown in FIG.9A). Further depression of the trigger25causes a hammer (not shown) within the piezoelectric unit to strike a piezoelectric element (not shown), also within the piezoelectric unit. Striking the piezoelectric element or crystal, produces an electrical impulse that is conducted along wire28(as shown inFIG. 1) to wand101to the tab to create a spark gap with nozzle143. A spark also travels from the cam member32to valve actuator14, then to valve stem15aand then to jet15athen electrode15band wire144and to connector150, and nozzle143. An electrical arc is generated across the gap between the nozzle143and the wand101, thus igniting the escaping fuel.

In the high-actuation-force mode when the trigger25is depressed, the spring80has a length D2(as shown inFIG. 6) less than the length D1(as shown in FIG.5). During this mode of operation, the latch member34remains substantially in the original position and boss36adoes not hinder trigger25movement due to its location and forward movement in slot60.

When the trigger25is released, the return spring30(as shown inFIG. 1B) within the piezoelectric mechanism26and the springs53and80move or assist in moving the piston member74, plunger member63and trigger25into their initial, at rest, positions. Spring16(as shown inFIG. 1B) biases valve actuator14to close jet and valve assembly15and shut off the supply of fuel. This extinguishes the flame emitted by the lighter. As a result, upon release of the trigger25, the lighter automatically returns to the initial state, where the plunger member63remains in the high-actuation-force position (as shown in FIG.5), which requires a high-actuation-force to actuate the trigger.

The lighter may be designed so that a user would have to possess a predetermined strength level in order to ignite the lighter in the high-actuation-force mode. The lighter optionally may be configured so that a user may ignite the lighter in the high-actuation-force mode with a single motion or a single finger.

Alternatively, if the intended user does not wish to use the lighter by applying a high first trigger force FT1(i.e., the high-actuation-force) to the trigger, the intended user may operate the lighter2in the low actuation-force mode (i.e., the low-force mode), as depicted in FIG.7. This mode of operation comprises multiple actuation movements, and in the embodiment shown, the user applies two motions to move two components of the lighter for actuation. If the pivotal wand assembly10(as shown inFIG. 1) and the cam follower116are incorporated into the lighter, operation of the lighter in the low-actuation-force mode may include three motions, including moving the wand assembly to an extended position.

In the lighter ofFIG. 7, the low-force mode includes repositioning the plunger member63downward such that spring80does not oppose motion of the trigger25to the same extent as in the high-force mode. In the low-force mode, a force substantially equal to or greater than second trigger force FT2(i.e., a low-actuation-force) is applied to the trigger25to ignite the lighter in conjunction with depressing the latch member. In this mode of operation, the second trigger force FT2is preferably less, and optionally significantly less, than the first trigger force FT1.

As shown inFIG. 7, to operate the lighter2in the low-force mode of this embodiment includes depressing the free end36of the latch member34from the initial position (shown in phantom) toward the trigger25to a depressed position. Due to the operative association between the latch member34and the plunger member63, downward movement of the latch member34moves boss36awhich in turn moves front end of the plunger member63downward. When the latch member34and plunger member63are in their depressed positions, the recess70(as shown inFIG. 3) receives boss36aof latch member and recess70provides a horizontal contact surface for the boss in this position.

The latch member may be partially or fully depressed with different results. Depending on the configuration of the lighter components, if latch member is partially depressed, the wall66amay be in contact with or adjacent the vertical wall56c. If the latch member34is depressed so that the wall66ais in contact with or adjacent the vertical wall56cof the trigger25, the lighter2is still in the high-force mode. If the latch member34is depressed so that the wall66ais equal to or below wall56cthe lighter can slip into the low-force mode or is in the low-force mode. In some configurations, the lighter may be designed so that when the latch member34is fully depressed, the plunger member63is completely out of contact with (e.g., below) upper portion46(as shown inFIG. 4) of the trigger25.

The force applied to the trigger in order to activate the lighter in the low-force mode, i.e., second trigger force FT2, at least has to overcome the opposing forces FOPas discussed above to actuate the lighter. In addition, if the plunger member63contacts the trigger25, the second trigger force must also overcome the friction forces generated by this contact during movement of the actuating member. The user, however, may not have to overcome the additional spring force Fs(as shown inFIG. 5) applied by spring80depending on whether the user partially or fully depresses the latch member. If partially depressed, the mode of the lighter will depend on whether vertical wall66ais contacting the vertical wall56cor the trigger25. In case the vertical wall66acontacts the vertical wall56c, the user may still have to overcome the high spring forces due to the extensions66still being within the slot portion56b.

Referring toFIG. 8, in the case of the member63contacts the upper surface of the slot portion56aforces due to contact will have to be overcome. If fully depressed, the user may not have to overcome any spring forces since the wall66ais out contact with wall56c. As a result, the second trigger force FT2required for the low-force mode is less than the first trigger force FT1required for the high-force mode. If the lighter is designed so that full depression of the latch member34moves the plunger member63out of contact with the trigger member25, the spring force Fs(shown inFIG. 5) may be substantially zero. Thus, a predetermined actuation force without forces other than the spring force Fsmay be substantially zero. The user, however, will have to apply a force sufficient to overcome the other forces in the lighter to ignite the lighter.

In the low-force mode in the lighter as shown inFIG. 8, as the trigger25is pressed gap g (shown inFIG. 7) decreases. In addition, as shown inFIG. 8, the spring80is not compressed and has its original length D1, piston74remains in its original position, spring53has been compressed and trigger25moves with respect to extensions66. This allows the lighter to be ignited in the low-force mode. When the trigger25and latch member34are released, the spring30within the piezoelectric mechanism and the return spring53move or assist in moving the trigger25into its initial position. In addition, the leaf spring42and spring92move the latch member34and the plunger member63back to their initial positions. Thus, the lighter automatically returns to the initial position, where the plunger member63is in a high-actuation-force position and the lighter requires a high-actuation force to operate.

Preferably, in order to perform the low-force mode, the user has to possess a predetermined level of dexterity and cognitive skills so that depression of the latch member34and movement of the trigger25are carried out in the correct sequence. In the low-force mode, a user may use a thumb to press latch member34and a different finger to apply the trigger force. The lighter may be designed so that the trigger force preferably is applied after the latch member34is depressed so that a proper sequence is carried out to operate the lighter. Alternatively, another sequence can be used for actuation, and the present invention is not limited to the sequences disclosed but also includes such alternatives as contemplated by one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, the sequence can be pulling the trigger partially, depressing the latch member, and then pulling the trigger the rest of the way. The lighter in the low-force mode also may rely on the physical differences between intended and unintended users, for example, by controlling the spacing of the trigger and the latch member, or adjusting the operation forces, or shape and size of the latch member, trigger or lighter.

In order to make the lighter so that it is not excessively difficult for some intended users to actuate, the high-actuation force FT1preferably should not be greater than a predetermined value. It is contemplated that for the lighter ofFIG. 5, the preferred value for FT1is less than about 10 kg and greater than about 5 kg. It is believed that such a range of force would not substantially negatively affect use by some intended users, and yet would provide the desired resistance to operation by unintended users. These values are exemplary and the operative force in the high-force mode may be more or less than the above ranges.

One of ordinary skill in the art can readily appreciate that various factors can increase or decrease the high-actuation force which an intended user can comfortably apply to the trigger. These factors may include, for example, the leverage to pull or actuate the trigger provided by the lighter design, the friction and spring coefficients of the lighter components, the trigger configuration, the complexity of the trigger actuation motion, the location, size and shape of the components, intended speed of activation, and the characteristics of the intended user. For example, the location and/or relationship between the trigger and the latch member and whether the intended user has large or small hands.

The design of the internal assemblies, for example the configuration of the actuating assembly, the configuration of any linking mechanism, as discussed below, the number of springs and forces generated by the springs all affect the force which a user applies to the trigger in order to operate the lighter. For example, the force requirements for a trigger which moves along a linear actuation path may not equal the force requirements to move a trigger along a non-linear actuation path. Actuation may require that a user move the trigger along multiple paths which may make actuation more difficult. While the embodiments disclosed have shown the preferred trigger with a linear actuation path, one of ordinary skill in the art can readily appreciate that non-linear actuation paths are contemplated by the present invention.

In the illustrated embodiment, inFIG. 7, the second trigger force FT2for the low-force mode is less than the first trigger force, preferably, but not necessarily, by at least about 2 kg. Preferably in the illustrated embodiment inFIG. 7, the low-actuation force FT2is less than about 5 kg but greater than about 1 kg. These values are exemplary, as discussed above, and the present invention is not limited to these values as the particular desirable values will depend upon the numerous lighter design factors outlined above and the desired level of resistance to operation by unintended users.

One feature of the lighter2is that in the high-force mode multiple actuating operations may be performed so long as the user provides the necessary actuation force. Another feature of the lighter2is that in the low-force mode multiple actuating operations may be performed so long as the user depresses the latch member and provides the necessary actuation force and motions required to ignite the lighter. In particular, if the lighter does not operate on the first attempt, the user may re-attempt to produce a flame by actuating the trigger again in the low-force mode if the user continues to depress the latch member.

FIGS. 16 and 16Aan alternative embodiment lighter202is shown. Lighter202is similar to the lighter2shown inFIGS. 1-4. Lighter202includes a trigger225with an upper rib portion246that is longitudinally extending. The trigger225further includes engaging portions226on either side of the rib portion246that cooperate with engaging portions226on cam follower216. The lighter202further includes a plunger member263(as shown inFIG. 16A) slidably associated with a piston member274. The plunger member263includes a U-shaped front portion and rearwardly extending cylindrical members263athat receive two high-actuation-force spring280. The springs280extends into the piston member274. The springs280bias the plunger member263toward front end209of the lighter. The piston member274is pivotally coupled to the housing204and is biased upward by a spring292.

In the high-actuation-force position or initial position, as shown inFIGS. 16 and 16A, the piston member274and plunger member263are aligned with the upper rib portion246so that if the trigger225is depressed in this mode, the springs280exerts spring force Fson the plunger member263. This force must be overcome to ignite the lighter.

In the low-actuation-force position or low-force mode, as shown inFIG. 17, latch member234is moved downward which moves the front end of the piston member274and consequently plunger member263(as shown inFIG. 16A) downward so that plunger member263enters gap g (shown in FIG.16). Thus, when the trigger225is depressed the upper rib portion246moves toward rear end208of the lighter without opposition from springs280(as shown in FIG.16A). Upon releasing the latch member234and the trigger225, the trigger returns to its initial position due to the return spring in the piezoelectric and a spring similar to spring53(in FIG.1). In addition, the piston member274and plunger member263return to their initial positions due to spring292(shown in FIG.16). An additional latch spring, as discussed above with respect to lighter2ofFIG. 1may also be included to aid in returning latch member234to its initial position. Thus, in the low-actuation-force position, a lower trigger force than in the high-actuation-force position is necessary to ignite the lighter because springs280only significantly oppose motion of trigger225, when upper rib portion246abuts plunger member263in the high-actuation-force position. In the low-actuation-force position, friction forces and other forces, discussed above, may oppose trigger motion. The lighter202can be modified in another embodiment to include any number of springs280such as a single such spring.

FIG. 18shows an alternative embodiment lighter302. Lighter302is similar to the lighter202shown inFIGS. 17-18. Lighter302includes a trigger325with an upper rib portion346that is longitudinally extending. The trigger325further includes engaging portions362on either side of the rib portion346that cooperate with engaging portions326on cam follower316.

As shown inFIG. 18A, the lighter302further includes a substantially U-shaped plunger member363and a piston member374. The plunger member363is slidably connected to the piston member374. A high-actuation-force spring380is disposed between the piston member374and housing support member304e. The piston member374is slidably coupled to the housing304. The plunger member is biased upward by a spring392.

In the high-actuation-force position or initial position, as shown inFIG. 18, the plunger member363is aligned with the upper rib portion346so that if the trigger325is depressed in this mode, the plunger member363and piston member374move rearward to compress biasing member380that exerts spring force Fson the piston member374, plunger member363, and trigger325. This force must be overcome to ignite the lighter.

In the low-actuation-force position or low-force mode, as shown inFIG. 19, latch member334is moved downward which moves the plunger member363downward on the front of the piston member374so that when the trigger325is depressed the upper rib portion346moves toward rear end308of the lighter over plunger member363. As a result, rib portion346does not move piston member374and biasing member380does not oppose the movement of the trigger325.

Upon releasing the latch member334, the latch member334and plunger member363return to their initial positions due to spring392(shown in FIG.18). An additional latch spring, as discussed above with respect to lighter2ofFIG. 1may also be included to aid in returning latch member334to its initial position. Thus, in the low-actuation-force position, a lower trigger force than in the high-actuation force position is necessary to ignite the lighter because spring380only significantly opposes motion of trigger325when upper rib portion346abuts plunger member363. In the low-actuation-force position, friction forces and other forces, discussed above, may oppose trigger motion.

FIG. 20shows an alternative embodiment lighter402. Lighter402is similar to the lighter2shown in FIG.1. Lighter402includes a stationary wand and an actuating assembly that includes a trigger425slidably connected to the housing404. The actuating assembly further includes a pivoting member425aand a linking rod425b. The linking rod425bhas an upper rib portion425cthat defines a gap g. The actuating assembly is further described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/704,688. In the lighter402, the ignition assembly426is located forward of the trigger425.

The lighter402further includes a dual-mode assembly that includes a plunger member463configured like plunger member63inFIG. 3 and apiston member474configured like piston member74in FIG.3. The plunger member463is pivotally coupled to the piston member474. A high-actuation-force spring480is disposed between the piston member474and support member404e. The piston member474is slidably coupled to the housing404and the plunger member463is biased upward by a spring492.

In the high-actuation-force position or initial position, as shown inFIG. 20, the plunger member463is aligned with the upper rib portion425cof the linking rod425bso that if the trigger425is depressed in this mode, the pivoting member425amoves linking rod425bforward to contact the plunger member463. Consequently, the plunger member463and piston member474move rearward to compress biasing member480, and biasing member480exerts spring force Fson the piston member474, plunger member463, linking rod425b, pivoting member425a, and trigger425. This force must be overcome to ignite the lighter.

In the low-actuation-force position or low-force mode, as shown inFIG. 21, latch member434is moved downward from its initial position (shown in phantom) which moves the plunger member463downward on the front of the piston member474so that when the trigger425is depressed the upper rib portion425cof the linking rod425bmoves forward without opposition from biasing member480, since rib portion425cdoes not move piston member474and plunger member463is received by gap g (as shown in FIG.20). Upon releasing the latch member434, the latch member434and plunger member463return to their initial positions due to spring492(shown in FIG.20). Thus, in the low-actuation-force position, a lower trigger force than in the high-actuation-force position is necessary to ignite the lighter because spring480only opposes motion of trigger425when upper rib portion425cabuts plunger member463.

FIG. 22shows an alternative embodiment of lighter502. Lighter502is similar to the lighter2shown in FIG.1. Lighter502includes an actuating assembly that includes a trigger525slidably connected to the housing504. The actuating assembly further includes a pivoting member525aand a linking rod525b. The linking rod525bhas an upper rib portion525cand an engaging end525d. The actuating assembly is further described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/704,688. In the lighter502, the ignition assembly526is located forward of the trigger525.

The lighter502further includes wand assembly510configured like wand assembly10ofFIGS. 9-14, and a cam follower516with an engaging end516aand a follower end516band configured similar to cam follower116ofFIGS. 9-15. Similar to lighter2ofFIGS. 9-14, wand assembly510includes a camming surface524and detents534a-d.

When wand assembly510is in or about the closed position, as shown, follower end516bof cain follower516is received in first detent534a, and end516aof cam follower516is aligned with engaging end525dof linking rod525b. Thus, cam follower516prevents linking rod525band trigger525from sliding sufficiently to ignite the lighter502. In the lighter502, the cam follower516may rotate counter-clockwise as the wand assembly is extended.

In various intermediate and fully-extended positions of wand assembly510, discussed above in reference to lighter2, cam follower516rotates such that end516ais out of alignment with engaging end525dof linking rod525b. In this position, cam follower516allows linking rod525band trigger to move sufficiently to compress ignition assembly526and ignite lighter.

FIG. 23shows an alternative embodiment of lighter602. Lighter602is similar to the lighter2shown in FIG.1. Lighter602includes a trigger625with an engaging portion662that includes a bore662a. The lighter602further includes a cam follower616that includes a portion with an engaging portion616a. In the closed, and various intermediate positions, as discussed above with respect to lighter2, the cam follower616is configured and dimensioned so that engaging portion616aengages bore662ato prevent trigger625from sliding sufficiently to ignite the lighter602.

In various intermediate and fully-extended positions (such as shown inFIG. 24) of wand assembly610, discussed above in reference to lighter2, cam follower616rotates counter-clockwise such that end616ais out of bore662. In this position, cam follower616allows trigger625to move sufficiently to ignite the lighter.

FIG. 25shows an alternative embodiment of lighter702. Lighter702is similar to the lighter2shown in FIG.1. Lighter702includes an actuating assembly that includes a trigger725slidably connected to the housing704. The lighter702further includes wand assembly710that is slidable with respect to housing704. Similar to lighter2ofFIGS. 9-14, wand assembly710includes a camming surface724and detents734a-d. Lighter702also includes a cam follower716with an engaging end716aand a follower end716b. Cam follower716is configured similar to cam follower116ofFIGS. 9-15.

When wand assembly710is in the closed position, shown inFIG. 25, follower end716bof cam follower716is received in first detent734a, and engaging end716aof cam follower716is aligned with engaging portion762of trigger725. Thus, when wand assembly710is in the closed position, cam follower716prevents trigger725from sliding sufficiently to ignite the lighter702. Ignition occurs when the piezoelectruc unit72bis activated and fuel is released from fuel unit711. In the lighter702, the cam follower716may rotate clockwise as the wand assembly is extended.

In various intermediate positions and the fully-extended position of wand assembly710(shown in FIG.26), cam follower716is rotated such that follower end716bis within detents734b-dand engaging end716ais out of alignment with engaging portion762of trigger725. In these positions of wand assembly710, cam follower716allows trigger725to move sufficiently to compress the ignition assembly726and ignite the lighter702. As discussed above, when the follower end716ais within detents734a-dthe wand assembly710is in a high-wand-force position. Lighter702can be configured so that in various intermediate positions of wand assembly710, the trigger725cannot move sufficiently to ignite lighter702.

FIG. 27shows an alternative embodiment of lighter802. Lighter802is similar to the lighter2shown in FIG.1. Lighter802includes a housing804with support members804afor releasably retaining a conductive strip or member890in the housing804. Prior to joining the strip890to housing804, wire28(as shown inFIG. 1B) is disposed with an uninsulated end in electrical contact with the strip890. The uninsulated end may be disposed between the strip890and housing804. Strip890thus retains the wire28in this location within the housing804.

A trigger825similar to trigger25, discussed above, is coupled to the piezoelectric826and includes an electrical conductor892electrically connected to electrode29(as shown inFIG. 1A) of piezoelectric.

While various descriptions of the present invention are described above, it should be understood that the various features of each embodiment may be used singly or in any combination thereof. Therefore, this invention is not to be limited to only the specifically preferred embodiments depicted herein. Further, it should be understood that variations and modifications within the spirit and scope of the invention may occur to those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains. For example, insulated wire28(shown inFIG. 1B) may be replaced by an at least partially helically coiled spring concentrically disposed outside of conduit23. As another example, the wand assembly may alternatively be configured to pivot about a different axis with respect to housing or moreover, to move or slide with respect to housing. As yet another example, in all of the embodiments, the latch member can be used with or without a separate biasing member for returning the latch member to its initial position after depression. When a separate biasing member is not used, it is recommended that the latch member by resiliently deformable. This modification may require additional modifications, as known by those of ordinary skill in the art, to complete the electrical communication between the piezoelectric unit and the nozzle.

Furthermore, although in the presently discussed embodiments the low-force mode relies on the user operating two components, in an alternative embodiment, the low-force mode may rely on the user operating a number of components.

As another example, the plunger member in any of the embodiments above may be configured and located so that a finger actuation portion of the plunger member is outside of the housing and the remainder of the plunger member is within the housing. Thus, the plunger member may be moved from the high-actuation-force position to the low-actuation force position by a user contacting the finger actuation portion of the plunger member. In such an embodiment, the lighter may not include a latch member.

In another example, the lighter2(inFIG. 1) can lack spring53. In such an embodiment, the plunger member63can be configured to include a projection and the housing4or another component can interact with the projection so that in the high-force mode the spring80is allowed to be compressed to resist lighter ignition. When the trigger is released after ignition in the high-force mode, the spring80returns it to its initial position. In the low-force mode, however, interaction with the projection prevents compression of the high-force spring to the same extent as in the high-force mode so that less force is necessary to ignite the lighter. In such a lighter, the trigger can be returned to the initial position after depression with the aid of the return spring in the piezoelectric unit.

Furthermore, the lighter may include the dual-mode aspect of the lighter, the pivoting wand assembly aspect of the lighter, cam follower aspect of the lighter, and the conduit aspect of the lighter discussed above, separately or in any combination. As a result, the features of the lighter2can be used alone or in combination with one another or other known features.

Accordingly, all expedient modifications readily attainable by one versed in the art from the disclosure set forth herein which are within the scope and spirit of the present invention are to be included as further embodiments of the present invention. Moreover, the features of the embodiments may be combined with additional cognitive effects such as a more complex trigger actuation path to make actuation of the lighter more difficult. The scope of the present invention is accordingly defined as set forth in the appended claims.