Patent Publication Number: US-6984123-B2

Title: Multi-mode lighter

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
   The present application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/085,045, filed on Mar. 1, 2002 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,726,469, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/817,278, filed Mar. 27, 2001, and a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/819,021 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,488,492, also filed Mar. 27, 2001, both of which are continuations-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/704,689 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,491,515 filed Nov. 3, 2000. The contents of these three applications are expressly incorporated herein by reference thereto. 

   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 &#39;697 patent”) to Meury discloses one such piezoelectric mechanism, the disclosure in the &#39;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 relates to a lighter, such as a pocket lighter or a utility lighter. The lighter includes a housing having a supply of fuel, an actuating member movably associated with the housing to selectively ignite the fuel, and a latch moveable between a first latch position and a second latch position to vary the amount of force required to move the actuating member to ignite the fuel. When a user attempts to move the latch before moving the actuating member, a first latch force is required to move the latch from the first latch position to the second latch position. When a user moves the actuating member a predetermined distance before moving the latch, a second latch force is required to move the latch from the first latch position to the second latch position. The second latch force is different than the first latch force. 
   When the latch is positioned in the first latch position (e.g., the “high-force mode”), the user applies a first actuating force to the actuating member to ignite the fuel, and when the latch is positioned in the second latch position (e.g., the “low-force mode”), the user applies a second actuating force to the actuating member to ignite the fuel. The first actuating force is different than the second actuating force. Preferably, the first actuating force is greater than the second actuating force. 
   According to one embodiment, the second latch force may be greater than the first latch force. Alternatively, when a user moves the actuating member a predetermined distance before attempting to move the latch, the latch may be substantially prevented from movement from the first latch position to the second latch position. 
   The lighter may include a first engagement surface associated with the latch, and a second engagement surface associated with the actuating member, and upon movement of the actuating member a predetermined distance before movement of the latch, the first engagement surface may engage the second engagement surface. Furthermore, upon movement of the latch before movement of the actuating member, the first engagement surface may be substantially disengaged from the second engagement surface. The lighter may further include a plunger member associated with the latch, and the first engagement surface may be formed on the plunger member. The actuating member may be a trigger, and the second engagement surface may be formed on the trigger. 
   The first engagement surface may be inclined or angled, and the second engagement surface may also be inclined or angled, for example to match the first engagement surface. Alternatively, the first and second engagement surfaces may be overlapping horizontal surfaces that abut one another upon movement of the actuating member before movement of the latch, however, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that any number of configurations of the first and second engagement surfaces are possible and contemplated by the present invention. 

   
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     Preferred features of the present invention are disclosed in the accompanying drawings, wherein similar reference characters denote similar elements throughout the several views, and wherein: 
       FIG. 1  is a cut-away, side view of a utility lighter of one embodiment with various components removed for clarity and better illustrating various inner details, wherein the lighter is in an initial state, a wand assembly is in a closed position, and a trigger and latch member are in initial states, and a plunger member is in a high-actuation-force position; 
       FIG. 1A  is an enlarged, exploded, perspective view of several components of a fuel supply unit for use in the lighter of  FIG. 1 ; 
       FIG. 1B  is an enlarged, cut-away, side view of a rear portion of the utility lighter of  FIG. 1 ; 
       FIG. 2  is a partial, side view of the lighter of  FIG. 1  with various components removed for clarity and better illustrating various inner details such as a latch member, a plunger member and a biasing member, wherein the trigger and latch member are in initial states, and the plunger member is in a high-actuation-force position; 
       FIG. 3  is an enlarged, exploded, perspective view of various components of the lighter of  FIG. 1  without a housing; 
       FIG. 3A  is an enlarged, exploded, perspective view of another embodiment of the plunger member and a piston member for use with the lighter of  FIG. 1 ; 
       FIG. 4  is an enlarged, side view of the components of  FIG. 3 ; 
       FIG. 5  is an enlarged, partial, side view of the lighter of  FIG. 1 , where the plunger member is in the high-actuation-force position and the trigger is in an initial position; 
       FIG. 6  is an enlarged, partial, side view of the lighter of  FIG. 1 , where the plunger member is in the high-actuation-force position and the trigger is in a depressed position; 
       FIG. 7  is an enlarged, partial, side view of the lighter of  FIG. 1 , where the latch member is depressed, the plunger member is in a low-actuation-force position and the trigger is in the initial position; 
       FIG. 8  is an enlarged, partial, side view of the lighter of  FIG. 1 , where the latch member is depressed, the plunger member is in the low-actuation-force position and the trigger is in the depressed position; 
       FIG. 9  is an exploded, partial, perspective view of the lighter of  FIG. 1  showing the housing and the wand assembly separated; 
       FIG. 9A  is an exploded, partial, perspective view of various components of the wand assembly for use with the lighter of  FIG. 1 ; 
       FIG. 10  is an enlarged, partial, side view of a front portion of the lighter of  FIG. 1  showing the wand assembly in a closed position; 
       FIG. 10A  is an enlarged, partial, side view of the front portion of the lighter of  FIG. 10  showing the wand assembly partially-extended and pivoted by about 20°; 
       FIG. 11  is an enlarged, partial, side view of the front portion of the lighter of  FIG. 10  showing the wand assembly partially-extended and pivoted by about 45°; 
       FIG. 12  is an enlarged, partial, side view of the front portion of the lighter of  FIG. 10  showing the wand assembly partially-extended and pivoted by about 90°; 
       FIG. 13  is an enlarged, partial, side view of the front portion of the lighter of  FIG. 10  showing the wand assembly fully-extended pivoted by about 160°; 
       FIG. 14  is an enlarged, partial, side view of the front portion of the lighter of  FIG. 10  showing the wand assembly partially-extended and pivoted by about 135°; 
       FIG. 15  is an enlarged, perspective view of a cam follower of the lighter of  FIG. 1 ; 
       FIG. 16  is a cut-away, partial, side view of a second embodiment of the lighter of the present invention, wherein the trigger and latch member are in initial states and the plunger member is in a high-actuation-force position; 
       FIG. 16A  is a schematic, top view of a portion of the piston member, plunger member and high-force spring of the lighter shown in  FIG. 16 ; 
       FIG. 17  is a cut-away, partial, perspective view of the lighter of  FIG. 16 , wherein the lighter is in the latch member is depressed and the plunger member is in a low-actuation-force position; 
       FIG. 18  is a cut-away, partial, perspective view of a third embodiment of the lighter of the present invention, wherein the lighter is in an initial state and the plunger member is in a high-actuation-force position; 
       FIG. 18A  is a schematic, top view of a portion of the piston member and plunger member of the lighter shown in  FIG. 18 ; 
       FIG. 19  is a cut-away, partial, perspective view of the lighter of  FIG. 18 , wherein the lighter is in the latch member is depressed and the plunger member is in a low-actuation-force position; 
       FIG. 20  is a cut-away, partial, side view of a fourth embodiment of the lighter of the present invention, wherein the trigger and latch member are in initial states and the plunger member is in a high-actuation-force position; 
       FIG. 21  is a cut-away, partial, side view of the lighter of  FIG. 20 , wherein the lighter is in the latch member is depressed and the plunger member is in a low-actuation-force position; 
       FIG. 22  is a cut-away, partial, side view of a fifth embodiment of the lighter of the present invention, wherein the wand assembly is in a closed position; 
       FIG. 23  is a cut-away, partial, side view of a sixth embodiment of the lighter of the present invention, wherein the wand assembly is in a closed position; 
       FIG. 24  is a cut-away, partial, side view of the lighter of  FIG. 23  the present invention, wherein the wand assembly is in an extended position; 
       FIG. 25  is a cut-away, side view of a seventh embodiment of the lighter of the present invention, wherein the wand assembly is in a closed position; 
       FIG. 26  is a cut-away, side view of the lighter of  FIG. 25  of the present invention, wherein the wand assembly is in an extended position; 
       FIG. 27  is a cut-away, partial, side view of an eighth embodiment of the lighter of the present invention, wherein the housing includes a conductive strip; 
       FIG. 28  is a perspective view of the trigger, an electrical contact and the conductive strip of  FIG. 27 ; 
       FIG. 29  is an enlarged, partial, side view of a ninth embodiment of the present invention, where the plunger member is in the high-actuation-force position and the trigger is in an initial position; 
       FIG. 29A  is an enlarged, partial, side view of the lighter of  FIG. 29 , where the plunger member is in the high-actuation-force position and the trigger is in a depressed position; 
       FIG. 30  is an enlarged, partial, side view of a tenth embodiment of the present invention, where the plunger member is in the high-actuation-force position and the trigger is in an initial position; 
       FIG. 30A  is an enlarged, partial, side view of the lighter of  FIG. 30 , where the plunger member is in the high-actuation-force position and the trigger is in a depressed position; 
       FIG. 31  is an enlarged, partial, side view of an eleventh embodiment of the present invention, where the trigger is in an initial position; and 
       FIG. 31A  is an enlarged, partial, side view of the lighter of  FIG. 31 , where the trigger is in a depressed position. 
   

   DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
   Turning to  FIG. 1 , an embodiment of a utility lighter  2  constructed 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. 
   Lighter  2  generally includes a housing  4  which may be formed primarily of molded-rigid-polymer or plastic materials such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene terpolymer or the like. The housing  4  may 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. 
   Housing  4  includes various support members, such as support member  4   a  discussed below. Further support members are provided in the lighter  2  for various purposes, such as supporting components or directing the travel path of components. The housing  4  further includes a handle  6 , which forms a first end  8  and a second end  9  of the housing. A wand assembly  10 , as discussed in detail below, is pivotally connected to the second end  9  of the housing. 
   Referring to  FIGS. 1 ,  1 A, and  1 B, handle  6  preferably contains a fuel supply unit  11  that includes a fuel supply container or main body  12 , a valve actuator  14 , a jet and valve assembly  15 , a spring  16 , a guide  18 , and a retainer  20 . The container  12  supports the other components of the fuel supply unit  11  and defines a fuel compartment  12   a  and a chamber  12   b,  and further includes a pair of spaced support members  12   c  extending upward from the top edge thereof. The support members  12   c  define openings  12   d.  The fuel compartment  12   a  contains fuel F, which may be compressed hydrocarbon gas, such as butane or a propane and butane mixture, or the like. 
   Referring to  FIGS. 1A and 1B , the a valve actuator  14  is rotatably supported on the compartment  12  below the support members  12   c.  The valve actuator  14  is connected to a jet and valve assembly  15  that includes a jet or valve stem  15   a  and an electrode  15   b.  The electrode  15   b  is optional. The jet and valve assembly  15  is a normally open valve design, and closed by the pressure of a spring member  16  on valve actuator  14 . Alternatively, a jet and valve assembly with a normally closed valve design can also be used. 
   A suitable fuel supply unit  11  is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,934,895 (“the &#39;895 patent”), the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. An alternative arrangement for the fuel supply unit  11  that can be used is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,520,197 (“the &#39;197 patent”) or U.S. Pat. No. 5,435,719 (“the &#39;719 patent”), the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety. The fuel supply units disclosed in the above patents can be used with all of the disclosed 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 to  FIG. 1A , the guide  18  with walls to define a slot  18   a  and projections  18   b.  When the lighter is assembled, the guide  18  is disposed between the support members  12   c,  and the support members  12   c  flex outward to accommodate the guide  18 . Once the projections  18   b  are aligned with the openings  12   d,  the support members  12   c  may return to their vertical, initial positions. The interaction between the projections  18   b  and the openings  12   d  allow the guide  18  to be retained within the main body  12 . 
   Referring to  FIGS. 1A and 1B , the retainer  20  includes a front portion  20   a  that defines a bore  20   b  and a L-shaped rearward portion  20   c.  A fuel connector  22  is disposed on the top of jet  15   a  and receives a fuel conduit  23  therein. The connector  22 , however, is optional and if not used the conduit  23  can be disposed on the jet  15   a  directly. 
   The retainer  20  properly positions fuel conduit  23  with respect to the jet and valve assembly  15  by receiving conduit  23  through the bore  20   b  so that the conduit  23  is within the connector  22 . Details of the conduit  23  will be discussed below. The rearward portion  20   c  of the retainer  20  is disposed within the slot  18   a  of the guide  18 . The retainer  20  and guide  18  may be configured so that these components snap-fit together so that the conduit  23  is properly positioned with respect to the jet and valve assembly  15 . The guide  18  and retainer  20  are optional and the housing  4  or other components of the lighter can be used to support and position the connector  22  and the conduit  23 . In addition, the guide and retainer  20  may be configured differently so long as they function to locate connector  22  and conduit  23  to jet  15   a.    
   The container  12 , guide  18 , retainer  20 , and connector  22  may be made with plastic material. However, the valve actuator  14 , valve stem  15   a,  and electrode  15   b  are preferably formed of electrically conductive materials. The fuel supply unit  11  can be a preassembled unit that may include the fuel supply container  12 , the jet and valve assembly  15 , and the biased valve actuator  14 . When the fuel supply unit  11  is disposed within the lighter, the housing support member  4   a  aids in locating and maintaining the position of the unit  11 , as shown in FIG.  1 . The housing support member  4   b  aids in positioning the retainer  20 . 
   Referring again to  FIG. 1 , lighter  2  also includes an actuating member  25  which facilitates movement of the valve actuator  14  to selectively release fuel F. In this embodiment, the actuating member also selectively activates an ignition assembly  26  for 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 member  25  in the illustrated embodiment comprises a trigger. In an alternative embodiment, as discussed below, the actuating member can be part of an actuating assembly. 
   Referring to  FIG. 1B , although not necessary for all aspects of this invention, an electric ignition assembly such as a piezoelectric mechanism is the preferred ignition assembly  26 . The ignition assembly may alternatively include other electronic ignition components, such as shown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,758,820 and 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 &#39;697 patent. Piezoelectric mechanism  26  has been illustrated in  FIG. 1B  schematically and particularly described in the &#39;697 patent. 
   The piezoelectric unit  26  includes an upper portion  26   a  and a lower portion  26   b  that slide with respect to each other along a common axis. A coil spring or return spring  30  is positioned between the upper and lower portions  26   a,    26   b  of piezoelectric unit. The return spring  30  serves to resist the compression of piezoelectric unit, and when positioned in the actuating member  25  resists the depression of actuating member  25 . The lower portion  26   b  of piezoelectric unit is received in cooperating chamber  12   b  in fuel supply unit  11 . 
   The piezoelectric unit  26  further includes an electrical contact or cam member  32  fixedly connected to the upper portion  26   a.  In the initial position, the portions  26   a, b  are separated by a gap X. The cam member  32  is formed of a conductive material. The upper portion  26   a  is coupled to actuating member  25 . Spark conductor or wire  28  is partially insulated and may be electrically connected with the electrical contact  29  of the piezoelectric unit in any known manner. 
   As shown in  FIG. 1 , latch member  34  is on the top side of the handle  6  and the actuating member  25  is opposite the latch member  34  near the bottom side of the handle  6 . Referring to  FIGS. 2-4 , the latch member  34  generally includes an unsupported, movable, front end  36  which includes a downwardly extending boss  36   a  and a rear end  38  pivotally fixed to a hinge  40  of the housing  4 . One of ordinary skill in the art can readily appreciate that latch member  34  also may be coupled to the housing in another manner such as in a cantilevered fashion, slidably or rotatably. When the latch member  34  is slidable a cam may be used therewith. 
   Referring to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , a leaf spring  42  includes a front end  42   a  and a rear end  42   b.  The leaf spring  42  is bent, as best seen in  FIG. 4 , so that the front end  42   a  is spaced above the rear end  42   b.  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 member  34 . 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 member  34 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 5 , the rear end  42   b  of the leaf spring  42  is disposed within the housing  4  between support members  4   c  such that end  42   b  is coupled to the housing  4  such that spring  42  operates substantially like a cantilevered member. Due to the configuration, dimensions, and material of the spring  42 , the front end  42   a  is free to move and is biased upward to return the latch member front end  36  to its initial position, as shown in FIG.  5 . Thus, unsupported front end  36  of latch member  34  may be moved downwardly along with the front end  42   a  of spring  42 . 
   Latch member  34  is preferably formed of plastic, while leaf spring  42  is 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 spring  42  is shown mounted to housing  4  it may alternatively be coupled to other components of the lighter. 
   Referring to  FIG. 1 , further details of the actuating member or trigger  25 , will now be discussed. Trigger  25  is preferably slidably coupled to housing  4 . The trigger  25  and housing  4  may 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 to  FIG. 3 , the trigger  25  includes a lower portion  44  and an upper portion  46 . Referring to  FIGS. 3-4 , the lower portion  44  includes a forward finger actuation surface  48 , a first chamber  50  (shown in phantom), and a second chamber  52  (shown in phantom). When the trigger  25  is disposed within the housing  4 , the finger actuation surface  48  extends from the housing so that it is accessible by a user&#39;s finger (not shown). 
   In this embodiment, the trigger  25  lower 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 to  FIGS. 4 and 5 , the first and second chambers  50  and  52  of the trigger  25  are horizontally disposed. The first chamber  50  is below the second chamber  52 , and the first chamber  50  is configured to receive a trigger return spring  53 . The spring  53  is disposed between the trigger  25  and a first spring stop portion or support member  4   d  of the housing  4 . Referring to  FIG. 4 , the trigger  25  further includes an extension  54  extending rearwardly from the lower portion  44 . The second chamber  52  extends into the extension  54 . The second chamber  52  is configured to receive the ignition assembly  26  (as shown in FIG.  1 ). 
   Referring to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , the upper portion  46  of the trigger  25  includes two L-shaped guides. In this embodiment the guides are side cutouts, represented by cutout  56 , in side wall  57 . The cutout  56  includes a first portion  56   a  and a second portion  56   b  in communication with the first portion  56   a.  The second portion  56   b  includes a wall  56   c  substantially 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 to  FIG. 3 , the upper portion  46  of the trigger also includes a rear cutout  58  and slot  60  in an upper wall  61  of the trigger. The upper portion  46  further includes a forwardly extending engaging portion  62  with an engaging surface  62   a.  The function of the engaging portion  62  will be discussed in detail below. 
   Referring to  FIGS. 1 and 3 , in this embodiment the upper portion  46  of the trigger  25  and the guides  56  form a portion of a dual-mode assembly. The dual-mode assembly also includes a plunger member  63  and a piston member  74 . In this embodiment, the lower and upper portions  44  and  46  of the trigger are formed as a single piece. In another embodiment, the lower and upper portions  44  and  46  can be formed as separate pieces and operatively connected together. 
   The plunger member  63  when installed in the lighter is disposed below the latch member  34 . The plunger member  63  is substantially T-shaped with a longitudinally extending body portion  64  and transversely extending head portions  66 . As best seen in  FIG. 4 , the head portions  66  have a planar, front surface  66   a.  Surface  66   a  is generally parallel to vertical axis V, when plunger member  63  is installed within trigger  25 . 
   Referring again to  FIG. 3 , the body portion  64  includes two transversely extending pins  68  at the rear end, a recess  70  on the upper surface, and a vertically extending projection  72  that extends from the bottom surface of the body portion  64 . Recess  70  is optional. 
   Referring to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , in alternative embodiments, the wall  56   c  of the trigger  25  and the wall  66   a  of the plunger member  63  can be configured differently. For example, walls may alternatively be angled with respect to vertical axis V. For example, walls  66   a  and  56   c  may be angled to be substantially parallel to line A 1 , which is angularly offset from vertical axis V by angle β. Walls  66   a,    56   c  may alternatively be angled to be substantially parallel to line A 2 , which is angularly offset from vertical axis V by angle θ. Alternatively, wall  56   c  can be configured to include a V-shaped notch and the wall  66   a  can include a V-shaped projection to be received in notch of wall  56   c  or vice versa. 
   Referring to  FIGS. 4 and 5 , the piston member  74  includes a rear portion  76  and a front portion  78 . The rear portion  76  includes a vertical rear wall  76   a  for contacting a high-force spring or biasing member  80 . The spring  80  is disposed between the wall  76   a  and the second spring stop portion or support member  4   e  of the housing  4 . Turning again to  FIG. 4 , the rear portion  76  further includes horizontal cutouts  76   b  that define a stop member  76   c.  The cutouts  76   b  and stop member  76   c  allow the piston member  74  to be slidably mounted to rails (not shown) in the housing and to allow the piston member  74  to slide longitudinally a predetermined distance so that the plunger member  63  can function as discussed below. 
   Referring to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , the front portion  78  of the piston member  74  includes two spaced apart arms  82 . The arms  82  and front portion  78  define a cutout  84  that receives the pins  68  of the plunger member  63 . The cutout  84  and pins  68  of the plunger member  63  are configured and dimensioned to allow the plunger member  63  to pivot with respect to the piston member  74 , as discussed in detail below. In this embodiment, the plunger member  63  is pivotally connected to the piston member  74 , however in another embodiment the plunger member  63  can be fixedly connected to the piston member  74  but be a resiliently deformable. 
   The front portion  78  of piston member  74  further includes a downwardly extending support portion  86  that includes a horizontal platform  88  with an upwardly extending pin  90 . Referring to  FIGS. 3 and 5 , when the piston member  74  is assembled within the lighter, the platform  88  is disposed through the rear cutout  58  of trigger  25 , and the pin  90  may be aligned with the pin  72  of the plunger member  63  so that the pins  72 ,  90  retain a plunger return spring  92  there between. The plunger member  63  contacts the bottom surface of upper wall  61  (as shown in  FIG. 3 ) due to the return spring  92  that biases the plunger member upward toward an initial position. 
   Referring to  FIG. 3A , a preferred embodiment of a plunger member  63 ′ and a piston member  74 ′ are shown for use with the lighter  2  of FIG.  1 . The plunger member  63 ′ is similar to plunger member  63  except the body portion  64 ′ includes a single central pin portion  68 ′ and a slot  68 ″. The piston member  74 ′ is similar to piston member  74  except the front portion  78 ′ of the piston member  74 ′ includes a single arm  82 ′ for defining a cutout  84 ′ for pivotally supporting the pin  68 ′ of the plunger member  63 ′. When the plunger member  63 ′ pivots downward the slot  68 ″ receives the arm  82 ′. 
   Operation of the actuating member  25  will be discussed in detail below with reference to  FIGS. 6-8 . With reference to  FIG. 9 , according to a further aspect of the lighter  2 , it may include a wand assembly  10 , the details of which will now be discussed. The wand assembly  10  may be movably coupled to housing  4  and/or formed separately from housing  4 . Wand assembly  10  may be pivoted between a first position or closed position, shown in  FIGS. 1 and 10  and a second or open or fully-extended position, shown in FIG.  13 . In the closed position, the wand assembly  10  is folded closely to housing  4  for convenient transportation and storage of lighter  2 . In the fully-extended position, the wand assembly  10  extends outward and away from housing  4 . 
   Referring to  FIGS. 9 and 9A , wand assembly  10  includes wand  101  fixedly connected to a base member  102 . The wand  101  is a cylindrical tube of metal that receives the conduit  23  (as shown in  FIG. 1 ) and wire  28 . The wand  101  also includes a tab  101   a  formed integrally therewith near the free end of the wand. Alternatively, a separate tab may be associated with wand. 
   Referring again to  FIGS. 9 and 9A , base member  102  is receivable in a recess  104  formed in the second end  9  of housing  4 . Recess  104  is located between the sides of housing  4 , and therefore locates wand assembly  10  between these sides. 
   Base member  102  includes two body portions  106   a  and  b  and is generally cylindrical and defines a bore  108 . According to the embodiment shown, body portions  106   a  and  b  define channels  106   c  so that when the body portions  106   a  and  b  are joined the channels  106   c  define a chamber  107  therein. 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 member  102 . 
   Body portion  106   b  defines an aperture  109  therein, as best seen in  FIG. 10  aperture  109  is an arcuate slot, which extends through body portion  106   b  and is in communication with the channel  106   c  and chamber  107  (as shown in  FIG. 9 ) formed therein. The function of the arcuate slot  109  will be discussed in detail below. 
   Referring again to  FIG. 9 , housing  4  includes a pair of axles  110   a  and  110   b  formed on an inner surface  112  thereof. Axle  110   a  is a male member and axle  110   b  is a female member. These axles  110   a,b  may be configured and dimensioned so that they snap-fit together when joined. Alternatively, axles  110   a,b  may be joined by ultrasonic welding or other methods of joining known to one of ordinary skill in the art. In another alternative, the axles  110   a,b  may be spaced apart. Once assembled, axles  110   a  and  110   b  extend into bore  108  to pivotally couple wand assembly  10  to housing  4 . Axles  110  thus define a pivot axis P about which wand assembly  10  pivots. The pivot axis P is preferably transversely extending (i.e., extends from one side of the housing  4  to 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. Housing  4  may also includes spacers  113  formed on the inner surface  112  of housing  4 , to support base member  102  in recess  104 . Base member  102  may 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 spacers  113 . The optional frictional members may be used to provide resistance against pivoting of wand assembly  10  about pivot axis P. 
   Referring back to  FIG. 1 , the lighter housing  4  further includes a vertical wall  4   f  at the front end  9 . The base member  102  further includes a projection  106   d  extending generally radially therefrom. Cooperation between the wall  4   f  and the projection  106   d  prevents movement of the wand  101  in the direction W 1  substantially beyond a fully-extended position, shown in FIG.  13 . Furthermore, when wand assembly  10  is in the fully-extended extended position, a slight clearance may exist between vertical wall  4   f  and projection  106   d  of base member  102 . 
   Referring to  FIGS. 10-14 , lighter  2  may be provided with a cam member  116  that releasably positions or retains wand assembly  10  at various positions from the closed position (shown in  FIG. 10 ) to the fully-extended position (shown FIG.  13 ), and at various intermediate positions (shown in  FIGS. 11 and 12 ) there between. Cam follower  116  also may prevent a user from moving, or more specifically sliding, trigger  25  sufficiently to ignite lighter  2  when wand assembly  10  is in the closed position of  FIG. 10 , and continues to prevent such sufficient movement of the trigger  25  until wand assembly  10  has been pivoted to a predetermined position, such as a position about 40° from closed, as discussed below. Such immobilization of trigger  25  may 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 to  FIG. 15 , cam follower  116  is rotatably mounted on a boss  117  (as best seen in  FIG. 9 ) formed on housing  4 . The cam follower  116  includes a hub  118  and first and second engaging portions  119 ,  120  extending from approximately opposite sides of the hub  118 . Hub  118  includes a bore  118   a  for receiving boss  117 . First portion  119  includes a follower end  122  for interacting with a camming surface  124  formed on base member  102  (see FIG.  9 ). Second portion  120  includes a second engaging surface  126   a  for contacting first engaging surface  62   a  (as shown in FIG.  10 ), which may be formed on trigger  25 . While first and second surfaces  62   a,    126   a  are shown as portions of hooks  62 ,  126 , other forms of engaging surfaces known to one of ordinary skill in the art are also within the scope of the present invention. Hook  126  may alternatively engage with other elements of a lighter, such as a linking member, to prevent the creation a flame. 
   Referring again to  FIG. 10 , cam follower  116  is biased counter-clockwise by a biasing member  128 , shown as a compression spring, such that follower end  122  contacts and follows camming surface  124 . A seat  130  is formed on housing  4  and a lug  132  (shown in  FIG. 15 ) is formed on first portion  119 , to position biasing member  128  in place. The seat  130  and lug  132  may be formed on the opposite members in an alternative embodiment. In addition, biasing member  128 , 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 end  124  may alternatively be biased against camming surface  124  by providing a cam follower  116  with resilient properties. For example, cam follower  116  may be a resilient member that is compressed in housing  2  such that follower end  122  is resiliently biased against camming surface  124 . 
   Camming surface  124  is an undulating surface and includes a series of first engaging portions  134   a-d,  shown as detents  134   a-d,  First engaging portions  134   a-d  may engage a follower end  122  of the first engaging portion  119 . Detents  134   a-d  are shown as indentations formed in base member  102 , which may receive an outward protrusion on follower end  122  such that follower end  122  is displaced radially inward causing cam follower  116  to rotate clockwise about boss  117 . In the embodiment shown, the first detent  134   a  is a sloped cutout larger than the remaining detents  134   b-d,  which are concave cutouts. The detent  134   a  includes a sloped surface portion  135  to provide a low pressure angle as follower end  122  rides along camming surface  124  within the first detent  134   a.  As a result of this low pressure angle, biasing member  128  is gradually compressed as base member  102  is rotated clockwise and follower end  122  moves from the first detent  134   a  toward the second detent  134   b,  thus providing a smooth and gradual feel to the user as the wand assembly  10  is pivoted away from the closed position. This low pressure angle also reduces wear and stresses on cam follower  116  and base member  102 . 
   The present invention is not to be limited to the shape and configuration of detents  134   a-d  shown, and detents  134   a-d  may alternatively be, for example, bumps, ridges or protrusions formed on base member  102  that engage follower end  122  and 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 follower  116  and ends  122  and  126 . The configurations of the cam follower  116 , ends  122 ,  126  and detents  134   a-d  may change, for example, to vary the force necessary to move the wand assembly  10 . The configurations of the cam follower  116 , ends  122 ,  126  and detents  134   a-d  may 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 to  FIG. 10 , lighter  2  is shown with wand assembly  10  in the closed position. In this position, follower end  122  is biased into first detent  134   a,  and located at a first radial distance R 1  from pivot axis P. Because first detent  134   a  includes sloped surface portion  135 , wand assembly  10  must be pivoted a predetermined distance, preferably about 40°, before hook  126  is disengaged from hook  62 . When wand assembly  10  is in the closed position, or pivoted less than the predetermined distance, hook  126  is aligned with hook  62  of trigger  25  such that hook walls  62   a  and  126   a  will engage upon depression of trigger  25 . Hooks  62 ,  126  may be spaced apart or otherwise configured so that trigger  25  may be partially depressed, but not depressed sufficiently to ignite lighter  2 , or alternatively so that trigger  25  may not be depressed at all. 
   Hook walls  62   a  and  126   a  contact when hooks  62 ,  126  engage one another. Hook walls  62   a,    126   a  are shown oriented substantially parallel to vertical axis V, which is perpendicular to longitudinal axis L and pivot axis P. This configuration of the hooks  62 ,  126  increases the force necessary to depress the trigger  25  sufficiently to ignite the lighter. 
   Hook walls  62   a,    126   a  may alternatively be angled. For example, hook walls  62   a,    126   a  may be angled to be substantially parallel to line B 1 , which is angularly offset from vertical axis V by angle γ, such that hooks  62 ,  126  interlock. Such a configuration of the hooks would increase the force necessary to depress the trigger  25  sufficiently to ignite the lighter. The force necessary in the interlocked configuration may be greater than the force necessary in the vertical wall configuration. 
   Hook walls  62   a,    126   a  may alternatively be angled to be substantially parallel to line B 2 , 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 trigger  25  sufficiently to ignite the lighter, but to a lesser extent than if the walls  62   a  and  126   a  were vertical or at an angle γ. 
   According to the embodiment shown in  FIG. 10  of hooks  62  and  126 , trigger  25  may be depressed sufficiently to ignite lighter  2  when wand assembly  10  is in the closed position, however a greater amount of force will be required to do so than when wand assembly  10  is pivoted to the extended position or one of the intermediate positions therebetween due to the interaction between hooks  62  and  126 . The amount of additional force required to depress trigger  25  sufficiently to ignite lighter  2  when wand assembly  10  is in the closed position may vary, for example, by varying the angle of hook walls  62   a,    126   a  and/or varying the materials used to form hooks  62 ,  126 . 
   Wand assembly  10  provides resistance against unintentional pivoting when in the closed position, because pivoting of wand assembly  10  toward the extended position, or in first direction W 1 , would cause follower end  122  to ride along sloped surface  135  and compress biasing member  128 . Thus, in order to pivot wand assembly  10  when wand assembly  10  is positioned in the closed position, a user must apply enough force to wand assembly  10  to cause follower end  122  to ride on sloped surface  135  and compress biasing member  128 . 
   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 member  128  with a specific spring constant and/or modifying the geometry of camming surface  124 . As a result of this feature, the wand assembly  10  is releasably retained in the closed position. Referring to  FIG. 1 , the lighter  2  may further include optional projections (not shown) within recess  4   f  of the housing  4  for releasably retaining the wand  101  in the closed position. 
   Referring to  FIGS. 10A ,  11  and  12 , lighter  2  is shown with wand assembly  10  located in partially-extended or intermediate positions. In the initial position, as shown in  FIG. 10 , the wand assembly has a central axis C W1 , In the first intermediate position, as shown in  FIG. 10A , wand assembly  10  is pivoted through a pivot angle of α of about 20°. The pivot angle α is defined between the wand  101  initial central axis C W1  and the central axis C W20  of the illustrated position with the follower end  122  (as shown in phantom) in the first detent  134   a.    
   In the second intermediate position, as shown in  FIG. 11 , wand assembly  10  is pivoted through a pivot angle of α of about 45°. The pivot angle α is defined between the wand  101  initial central axis C W1 and the central axis C W45  of the illustrated position with the follower end  122  in the second detent  134   b.    
   In the third intermediate position, as shown in  FIG. 12 , wand assembly  10  is pivoted through a pivot angle of α of about 90°. The pivot angle α is defined between the wand  101  initial central axis C W1  and the central axis C W90  of the illustrated position with the follower end  122  in the third detent  134   c.    
   In the fourth intermediate position, as shown in  FIG. 14 , wand assembly  10  is pivoted through a pivot angle of α of about 135°. The pivot angle α is defined between the wand  101  initial central axis C W1  and the central axis C W135  of the illustrated position with the follower end  122  between the third detent  134   c  and the fourth detent  134   d.    
   In the fully-extended position, as shown in  FIG. 13 , wand assembly  10  is pivoted through a pivot angle of α of about 160°. The pivot angle α is defined between the wand  101  initial central axis C W1  and the central axis C W160  of the illustrated position with the follower end  122  in the fourth detent  134   d.    
   Referring to  FIG. 10A , the cam follower  116  is shown in solid lines in its initial position, and shown in phantom lines in its radially displaced position. With the wand  101  at an angle of 20° from its initial position, follower end  122  (as shown in phantom) is in contact with sloped surface  135  within detent  134   a  and cam follower  116  is slightly rotated about boss  117 , however hook  126  (as shown in phantom) and hook  62  are sufficiently aligned to engage upon depression of trigger  25 . Thus, in this position, the trigger  25  cannot be moved sufficiently to ignite lighter  2  without applying a force greater than the force sufficient to ignite the lighter in the remaining intermediate positions (shown in  FIGS. 11-12  and  14 ) and the closed position (shown in FIG.  13 ). 
   Referring to  FIGS. 11-13 , in these positions the follower end  122  is disposed within the second, third and fourth detents  134   b,    134   c,    134   d,  respectively, which are all located at a second radial distance R 2  from pivot axis P. Second radial distance R 2  is greater than first radial distance R 1  (shown in  FIG. 10 ) and, as a result, when wand assembly  10  is pivoted from the closed position, discussed above, to the intermediate and fully-extended positions, follower end  122  is displaced toward the first end  8  (shown in  FIG. 1 ) of housing  4 , causing cam follower  116  to rotate clockwise about boss  117  and rotate hook  126  out of alignment with hook  62 . Thus, in these three positions, hook walls  62   a  and  126   a  will not engage upon full depression of trigger  25 . In  FIG. 11 , the cam follower  116  is shown in phantom lines in its initial position, and shown in solid lines in its radially displaced position. In  FIGS. 12-14 , the cam follower  116  is shown in its other radially displaced positions. 
   Wand assembly  10  exhibits variable resistance against pivoting. When wand assembly  10  is 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 in  FIGS. 11-12 ) between the closed and extended positions, follower end  122  contacts one of the detents  134   a-d,  When in any of these high-wand-force positions, pivoting of wand assembly  10  causes first portion  119  to compress biasing member  128  as follower end  122  rides along camming surface  124  and is displaced radially outward by the second, third or fourth detents,  134   b,    134   c,    134   d,  respectively. The force necessary for wand movement from the closed position is less that the force necessary for wand movement from the positions shown in  FIGS. 11-13  since the detent  134   a  has a sloped surface portion  135 . As mentioned above, a user must therefore exert sufficient force on wand assembly  10  to compress biasing member  128  and move follower  122  out of the detent, in order to pivot wand assembly  10 . Lighter  2  can 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 surface  124  may be provided with any number of detents  134   a-d  spaced apart at various intervals to provide a wand assembly  10  with 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 to  FIG. 14 , lighter  2  is shown with wand assembly  10  in a low-wand-force position. In the low-wand-force position shown, wand assembly  10  is partially-extended and located at an angle of about 135° from the closed position. Follower end  122  is biased against camming surface  124  between the third detent  134   c  and the fourth detent  134   d  at point A, and is located at a third radial distance R 3  from pivot axis. Third radial distance R 3  is the nominal radius of camming surface  124  and thus, follower end  122  is located at third radial distance R 3  from pivot axis P whenever follower end  122  is not aligned with one of the detents  134   a-d,  Third radial distance R 3  is larger than first radial distance R 1  and second radial distance R 2 , and as a result, positions follower end  122  such that hook  126  is rotated out of engagement with hook  62 . Thus, when follower end  122  contacts camming surface  124  between the detents  134   a-d,  trigger  25  may be depressed to ignite the lighter. As discussed above, trigger  25  is therefore only immobilized sufficiently to prevent ignition of lighter  2  when wand assembly  10  is in or within about 40° of the closed position. In an alternative embodiment, this angle may vary. 
   Still referring to  FIG. 14 , wand assembly  10  is shown in a low-wand-force position, where follower end  122  contacts cam surface  124  between detents  134   c  and  d.  Follower end  122  is thus out of contact with detents  134   c  and  d.  In this position, less force is required to pivot wand assembly  10  than when in a high-wand-force position with follower end  122  received in detents  134   a-d,  When in a low-wand-force position, wand assembly  10  still provides some resistance against pivoting because biasing member  128  is at its maximum state of compression and therefore biases follower end  122  against camming surface  124 , and creates frictional forces between follower end  122  and camming surface  124  upon pivoting of wand assembly  10 . Thus, when wand assembly  10  is 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 assembly  10 . The high-wand-force position requires more force to pivot wand assembly  10  than the low-wand-force position because the user must provide additional force to further compress biasing member  128  and move the follower  122  out of the detents  134   a-d,  The wand assembly  10  is similarly in low-wand-force positions when the follower  122  is located between detents  134   a  and  b  and detents  134   b  and  c.    
   The geometry of the detents  134  and the follower end  122  may be varied to increase or decrease the amount of force required to pivot wand assembly  10  when in a high-wand-force position. For example, the detents may be relatively deep and of a size and shape that closely matches follower end  122 , 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 end  122  to provide a small increase in force when in a high-wand-force position. 
   Referring to  FIGS. 10 and 13 , movement of the wand  101  in a second direction W 2  opposite from the first direction W 1  allows the wand  101  to be moved toward the closed position. The wand  101  acts as discussed above when moved toward the closed position, in that it is releasably retained in the intermediate positions (shown in  FIGS. 11 and 12 ) during movement. 
   Referring again to  FIG. 9A , one embodiment of a conduit  23  for use with lighter  2  of  FIG. 1  is shown. Conduit  23  includes a flexible tube  140  defining a channel  142  for fluidly connecting fuel supply unit  11  to nozzle  143 . Flexibly tube  140  thus transports fuel F (as shown in  FIG. 1 ) from the fuel supply unit  11  to nozzle  143 . A suitable material for flexible tube  140  is plastic. An un-insulated, electrically conductive wire  144  is disposed in channel  142 , and extends from a first end  146  of tube  140  to a second end  148  of tube  140 . A suitable material for electrically conductive wire  144  is copper or the like. In this embodiment, the wire  144  may be at least partially coiled. The coils may be more closely packed in some sections than other sections. In an alternative embodiment, the wire  144  may not be coiled. Fuel connector  22  is coupled to first end  146  of tube  140 . Nozzle  143  is connected to second end  148  of tube  140  by nozzle connector  147 . Wire  144  thus acts as an electrical conductor to pass an electrical charge to nozzle  143  to generate a spark to ignite the fuel. The wire  144  may also reinforce flexible tube  140  to provide resistance to kinking. 
   The conduit  23 , connector  147  and nozzle  143  are supported within a pair of guide and insulator members  145 , one being shown. One the pair of members  145  are positioned around these components an isolator  146  is disposed over the end of the members  145 . Then the wand  101  is disposed thereon. 
   As shown in  FIGS. 1-1B  and  16 , the tube  140  is supported within bore  20   b  of retainer  20  and joined to fuel connector  22  so that wire  144  extends through fuel connector  22  and is in electrical contact with electrode  15   b.  The second end  148  of tube  140  is connected to nozzle  143  located adjacent the tip  152  of wand  101 . Tube  140  thus conveys fuel F from the fuel supply unit  11  to the nozzle  143  at tip  152  of wand assembly  10  via channel  142 . Nozzle  143  may optionally include a diffuser  154 , preferably in the form of a coil spring. 
   Referring to  FIGS. 1 and 11 , conduit  23  and wire  28  run from the inside of housing  4 , through at least a portion of wand assembly  10 . Wire  28  is electrically connected adjacent to the end of metal wand  101  coupled to base member  102 . Wire  28  may be at least partially coiled around tube  140 . The conduit  23  extends to the nozzle  143 . To better facilitate pivoting of wand assembly  10  with respect to housing  4 , the conduit  23  and wire  28  extend through an aperture  109  in base member  102 , and through the chamber  107  (as shown in  FIG. 9 ) within base member  102 . Aperture  109  is preferably spaced apart from pivot axis P. Thus, as wand assembly  10  pivots with respect to housing  4 , conduit  23  and wire  28  slide within arcuate slot  109  from end  109   a  to end  109   b.  The length of conduit  23  and wire  28  also allow the wand  101  to pivot. 
   Once the wand assembly  10  is moved to the partially-extended or fully-extended positions, the lighter  2  may be operated in two different modes. Referring to  FIG. 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 lighter  2  provides 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 trigger  25  in order to operate the lighter. Optionally, the force which is necessary to operate the lighter  2  in 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 lighter  2  provides 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 member  63  from a high-actuation-force position to a low-actuation-force position. The user may move the plunger member  63  by depressing a latch member  34 . 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 to  FIG. 5 , one embodiment of a lighter  2  having a high-force mode and a low-force mode will be described. The lighter of  FIGS. 3 and 5  has a movable plunger member  63 , operatively associated with latch member  34 . 
   In an initial or rest position in the high-force mode, as shown in  FIG. 5 , the plunger member  63 , and more particularly portions  66  are disposed within portion  56   b  of cutout  56  defined in trigger  25 . The wall  66   a  of plunger member  63  contacts vertical wall  56   c  of slot  56  and is thus in a high-actuation-force position. When a user attempts to actuate trigger  25 , vertical wall  66   c  applies a force to vertical wall  66   a  which applies a force to piston member  74 , which thru wall  76   a  moves to compress spring  80 . Spring  80  applies a spring force F S  which opposes movement of the trigger  25 . In the initial position, the spring  80  is uncompressed and has a length has a length of D 1 . 
   In this embodiment, the length D 1  is substantially equal to the space between support  4   d  and piston member  74  end wall  76   a.  In another embodiment, the length D 1  can be greater than this space so that the spring  80  is compressed and pre-loaded when installed or the length D 1  can be less than this space. 
   To actuate the lighter in this high-force mode, i.e., when the portions  66  are disposed in slot portion  56   b,  a user applies at least a first trigger force F T1  to the trigger  25  which is substantially equal to or greater than the sum of a spring force F S , and all additional opposing forces F OP . (not shown). The spring force F S  may comprise the force necessary to compress the spring  80 . The opposing forces F OP  may 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 spring  30  (see  FIG. 1B ) in piezoelectric unit  26 , the force to compress spring  53 , 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 F OP  opposing 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 F T1 , ignition of the lighter does not occur. 
   As shown in  FIG. 6 , when a user applies a force to the trigger  25  at least substantially equal to or greater than the first trigger force F T1 , the trigger  25  moves the distance d, and the plunger member  63  and piston member  74  compress spring  80 . This movement of the trigger  25 , with reference to  FIG. 1B , causes the upper and lower portions  26   a,b  of the piezoelectric unit  26  to compress together, thereby causing the cam member  32  on the upper portion  26   a  to move, which moves the valve actuator  14  to act on jet and valve assembly  15  to move valve stem  15   a  forward to release the fuel F from compartment  12   a.  When the cam member  32  contacts the valve actuator  14  electrical communication occurs between the piezoelectric unit  26  and the wire  144  (as shown in FIG.  9 A). Further depression of the trigger  25  causes 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 wire  28  (as shown in  FIG. 1 ) to wand  101  to the tab to create a spark gap with nozzle  143 . A spark also travels from the cam member  32  to valve actuator  14 , then to valve stem  15   a  and then to jet  15   a  then electrode  15   b  and wire  144  and to connector  150 , and nozzle  143 . An electrical arc is generated across the gap between the nozzle  143  and the wand  101 , thus igniting the escaping fuel. 
   In the high-actuation-force mode when the trigger  25  is depressed, the spring  80  has a length D 2  (as shown in  FIG. 6 ) less than the length D 1  (as shown in FIG.  5 ). During this mode of operation, the latch member  34  remains substantially in the original position and boss  36   a  does not hinder trigger  25  movement due to its location and forward movement in slot  60 . 
   When the trigger  25  is released, the return spring  30  (as shown in  FIG. 1B ) within the piezoelectric mechanism  26  and the springs  53  and  80  move or assist in moving the piston member  74 , plunger member  63  and trigger  25  into their initial, at rest, positions. Spring  16  (as shown in  FIG. 1B ) biases valve actuator  14  to close jet and valve assembly  15  and shut off the supply of fuel. This extinguishes the flame emitted by the lighter. As a result, upon release of the trigger  25 , the lighter automatically returns to the initial state, where the plunger member  63  remains 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 F T1  (i.e., the high-actuation-force) to the trigger, the intended user may operate the lighter  2  in 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 assembly  10  (as shown in  FIG. 1 ) and the cam follower  116  are 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 of  FIG. 7 , the low-force mode includes repositioning the plunger member  63  downward such that spring  80  does not oppose motion of the trigger  25  to 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 F T2  (i.e., a low-actuation-force) is applied to the trigger  25  to ignite the lighter in conjunction with depressing the latch member. In this mode of operation, the second trigger force F T2  is preferably less, and optionally significantly less, than the first trigger force F T1 . 
   As shown in  FIG. 7 , to operate the lighter  2  in the low-force mode of this embodiment includes depressing the free end  36  of the latch member  34  from the initial position (shown in phantom) toward the trigger  25  to a depressed position. Due to the operative association between the latch member  34  and the plunger member  63 , downward movement of the latch member  34  moves boss  36   a  which in turn moves front end of the plunger member  63  downward. When the latch member  34  and plunger member  63  are in their depressed positions, the recess  70  (as shown in  FIG. 3 ) receives boss  36   a  of latch member and recess  70  provides 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 wall  66   a  may be in contact with or adjacent the vertical wall  56   c.  If the latch member  34  is depressed so that the wall  66   a  is in contact with or adjacent the vertical wall  56   c  of the trigger  25 , the lighter  2  is still in the high-force mode. If the latch member  34  is depressed so that the wall  66   a  is equal to or below wall  56   c  the 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 member  34  is fully depressed, the plunger member  63  is completely out of contact with (e.g., below) upper portion  46  (as shown in  FIG. 4 ) of the trigger  25 . 
   The force applied to the trigger in order to activate the lighter in the low-force mode, i.e., second trigger force F T2 , at least has to overcome the opposing forces F OP  as discussed above to actuate the lighter. In addition, if the plunger member  63  contacts the trigger  25 , 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 F S  (as shown in  FIG. 5 ) applied by spring  80  depending on whether the user partially or fully depresses the latch member. If partially depressed, the mode of the lighter will depend on whether vertical wall  66   a  is contacting the vertical wall  56   c  or the trigger  25 . In case the vertical wall  66   a  contacts the vertical wall  56   c,  the user may still have to overcome the high spring forces due to the extensions  66  still being within the slot portion  56   b.    
   Referring to  FIG. 8 , in the case of the member  63  contacts the upper surface of the slot portion  56   a  forces due to contact will have to be overcome. If fully depressed, the user may not have to overcome any spring forces since the wall  66   a  is out contact with wall  56   c.  As a result, the second trigger force F T2  required for the low-force mode is less than the first trigger force F T1 , required for the high-force mode. If the lighter is designed so that full depression of the latch member  34  moves the plunger member  63  out of contact with the trigger member  25 , the spring force F S  (shown in  FIG. 5 ) may be substantially zero. Thus, a predetermined actuation force without forces other than the spring force F S  may 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 in  FIG. 8 , as the trigger  25  is pressed gap g (shown in  FIG. 7 ) decreases. In addition, as shown in  FIG. 8 , the spring  80  is not compressed and has its original length D 1 , piston  74  remains in its original position, spring  53  has been compressed and trigger  25  moves with respect to extensions  66 . This allows the lighter to be ignited in the low-force mode. When the trigger  25  and latch member  34  are released, the spring  30  within the piezoelectric mechanism and the return spring  53  move or assist in moving the trigger  25  into its initial position. In addition, the leaf spring  42  and spring  92  move the latch member  34  and the plunger member  63  back to their initial positions. Thus, the lighter automatically returns to the initial position, where the plunger member  63  is 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 member  34  and movement of the trigger  25  are carried out in the correct sequence. In the low-force mode, a user may use a thumb to press latch member  34  and a different finger to apply the trigger force. The lighter may be designed so that the trigger force preferably is applied after the latch member  34  is 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 F T1  preferably should not be greater than a predetermined value. It is contemplated that for the lighter of  FIG. 5 , the preferred value for F T1  is less than about 10 kg and greater than about 5 kg, and more preferably less than about 8.5 kg and greater than about 6.5 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, in  FIG. 7 , the second trigger force F T2  for 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 in  FIG. 7 , the low-actuation force F T2  is less than about 5 kg but greater than about 1 kg, and more preferably greater than about 3.0 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 lighter  2  is 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 lighter  2  is 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. 
   In  FIGS. 16 and 16A , an alternative embodiment is shown as lighter  202 . Lighter  202  is similar to the lighter  2  shown in  FIGS. 1-4 . Lighter  202  includes a trigger  225  with an upper rib portion  246  that is longitudinally extending. The trigger  225  further includes engaging portions  226  on either side of the rib portion  246  that cooperate with engaging portions  126  on cam follower  216 . The lighter  202  further includes a plunger member  263  (as shown in  FIG. 16A ) slidably associated with a piston member  274 . The plunger member  262  includes a U-shaped front portion and rearwardly extending cylindrical members  262   a  that receive two high-actuation-force spring  280 . The springs  280  extends into the piston member  274 . The springs  280  bias the plunger member  262  toward front end  209  of the lighter. The piston member  274  is pivotally coupled to the housing  204  and is biased upward by a spring  292 . 
   In the high-actuation-force position or initial position, as shown in  FIGS. 16 and 16A , the piston member  274  and plunger member  263  are aligned with the upper rib portion  246  so that if the trigger  225  is depressed in this mode, the springs  280  exerts spring force F S  on the plunger member  263 . This force must be overcome to ignite the lighter. 
   In the low-actuation-force position or low-force mode, as shown in  FIG. 17 , latch member  234  is moved downward which moves the front end of the piston member  274  and consequently plunger member  263  (as shown in  FIG. 16A ) downward so that plunger member  263  enters gap g (shown in FIG.  16 ). Thus, when the trigger  225  is depressed the upper rib portion  246  moves toward rear end  208  of the lighter without opposition from springs  280  (as shown in FIG.  16 A). Upon releasing the latch member  234  and the trigger  225 , the trigger returns to its initial position due to the return spring in the piezoelectric and a spring similar to spring  53  (in FIG.  1 ). In addition, the piston member  274  and plunger member  263  return to their initial positions due to spring  292  (shown in FIG.  16 ). An additional latch spring, as discussed above with respect to lighter  2  of  FIG. 1  may also be included to aid in returning latch member  234  to 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 springs  280  only significantly oppose motion of trigger  225 , when upper rib portion  246  abuts plunger member  263  in the high-actuation-force position. In the low-actuation-force position, friction forces and other forces, discussed above, may oppose trigger motion. The lighter  202   c  an be modified in another embodiment to include any number of springs  280  such as a single such spring. 
     FIG. 18  shows an alternative embodiment lighter  302 . Lighter  302  is similar to the lighter  202  shown in  FIGS. 17-18 . Lighter  302  includes a trigger  325  with an upper rib portion  346  that is longitudinally extending. The trigger  325  further includes engaging portions  362  on either side of the rib portion  346  that cooperate with engaging portions  326  on cam follower  316 . 
   As shown in  FIG. 19A , the lighter  302  further includes a substantially U-shaped plunger member  363  and a piston member  374 . The plunger member  363  is slidably connected to the piston member  374 . A high-actuation-force spring  380  is disposed between the piston member  374  and housing support member  304   e.  The piston member  374  is slidably coupled to the housing  304 . The plunger member is biased upward by a spring  392 . 
   In the high-actuation-force position or initial position, as shown in  FIG. 18 , the plunger member  363  is aligned with the upper rib portion  346  so that if the trigger  325  is depressed in this mode, the plunger member  363  and piston member  374  move rearward to compress biasing member  380  that exerts spring force F S  on the piston member  374 , plunger member  363 , and trigger  325 . This force must be overcome to ignite the lighter. 
   In the low-actuation-force position or low-force mode, as shown in  FIG. 19 , latch member  334  is moved downward which moves the plunger member  363  downward on the front of the piston member  374  so that when the trigger  325  is depressed the upper rib portion  346  moves toward rear end  308  of the lighter over plunger member  363 . As a result, rib portion  346  does not move piston member  374  and biasing member  380  does not oppose the movement of the trigger  325 . 
   Upon releasing the latch member  334 , the latch member  334  and plunger member  363  return to their initial positions due to spring  392  (shown in FIG.  18 ). An additional latch spring, as discussed above with respect to lighter  2  of  FIG. 1  may also be included to aid in returning latch member  334  to 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 spring  380  only significantly opposes motion of trigger  325  when upper rib portion  346  abuts plunger member  363 . In the low-actuation-force position, friction forces and other forces, discussed above, may oppose trigger motion. 
     FIG. 20  shows an alternative embodiment lighter  402 . Lighter  402  is similar to the lighter  2  shown in FIG.  1 . Lighter  402  includes a stationary wand and an actuating assembly that includes a trigger  425  slidably connected to the housing  404 . The actuating assembly further includes a pivoting member  425   a  and a linking rod  425   b.  The linking rod  425   b  has an upper rib portion  425   c  that defines a gap g. The actuating assembly is further described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/704,688. In the lighter  402 , the ignition assembly  426  is located forward of the trigger  425 . 
   The lighter  402  further includes a dual-mode assembly that includes a plunger member  463  configured like plunger member  63  in  FIG. 3 and a  piston member  474  configured like piston member  74  in FIG.  3 . The plunger member  463  is pivotally coupled to the piston member  474 . A high-actuation-force spring  480  is disposed between the piston member  474  and support member  404   e.  The piston member  474  is slidably coupled to the housing  404  and the plunger member  463  is biased upward by a spring  492 . 
   In the high-actuation-force position or initial position, as shown in  FIG. 20 , the plunger member  463  is aligned with the upper rib portion  425   c  of the linking rod  425   b  so that if the trigger  425  is depressed in this mode, the pivoting member  425   a  moves linking rod  425   b  forward to contact the plunger member  463 . Consequently, the plunger member  463  and piston member  474  move rearward to compress biasing member  480 , and biasing member  480  exerts spring force F S  on the piston member  474 , plunger member  463 , linking rod  425   b,  pivoting member  425   a,  and trigger  425 . This force must be overcome to ignite the lighter. 
   In the low-actuation-force position or low-force mode, as shown in  FIG. 21 , latch member  434  is moved downward from its initial position (shown in phantom) which moves the plunger member  463  downward on the front of the piston member  474  so that when the trigger  425  is depressed the upper rib portion  425   c  of the linking rod  425   b  moves forward without opposition from biasing member  480 , since rib portion  425   c  does not move piston member  474  and plunger member  463  is received by gap g (as shown in FIG.  20 ). Upon releasing the latch member  434 , the latch member  434  and plunger member  463  return to their initial positions due to spring  492  (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 spring  480  only opposes motion of trigger  425  when upper rib portion  425   c  abuts plunger member  463 . 
     FIG. 22  shows an alternative embodiment of lighter  502 . Lighter  502  is similar to the lighter  2  shown in FIG.  1 . Lighter  502  includes an actuating assembly that includes a trigger  525  slidably connected to the housing  504 . The actuating assembly further includes a pivoting member  525   a  and a linking rod  525   b.  The linking rod  525   b  has an upper rib portion  525   c  and an engaging end  525   d.  The actuating assembly is further described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/704,688. In the lighter  502 , the ignition assembly  526  is located forward of the trigger  525 . 
   The lighter  502  further includes wand assembly  510  configured like wand assembly  10  of  FIGS. 9-14 , and a cam follower  516  with an engaging end  516   a  and a follower end  522  and configured similar to cam follower  116  of  FIGS. 9-15 . Similar to lighter  2  of  FIGS. 9-14 , wand assembly  510  includes a camming surface  524  and detents  534   a-d.    
   When wand assembly  510  is in or about the closed position, as shown, follower end  522  of cam follower  516  is received in first detent  534   a,  and end  516   a  of cam follower  516  is aligned with engaging end  525   d  of linking rod  525   b.  Thus, cam follower  516  prevents linking rod  525   b  and trigger  525  from sliding sufficiently to ignite the lighter  502 . In the lighter  502 , the cam follower  516  may rotate counter-clockwise as the wand assembly is extended. 
   In various intermediate and fully-extended positions of wand assembly  510 , discussed above in reference to lighter  2 , cam follower  516  rotates such that end  516   a  is out of alignment with engaging end  525   d  of linking rod  525   b.  In this position, cam follower  516  allows linking rod  525   b  and trigger to move sufficiently to compress ignition assembly  526  and ignite lighter. 
     FIG. 23  shows an alternative embodiment of lighter  602 . Lighter  602  is similar to the lighter  2  shown in FIG.  1 . Lighter  602  includes a trigger  625  with an engaging portion  662  that includes a bore  662   a.  The lighter  602  further includes a cam follower  616  that includes a portion with an engaging portion  616   a.  In the closed, and various intermediate positions, as discussed above with respect to lighter  2 , the cam follower  616  is configured and dimensioned so that engaging portion  616   a  engages bore  662   a  to prevent trigger  625  from sliding sufficiently to ignite the lighter  602 . 
   In various intermediate and fully-extended positions (such as shown in  FIG. 24 ) of wand assembly  610 , discussed above in reference to lighter  2 , cam follower  616  rotates counter-clockwise such that end  616   a  is out of bore  662 . In this position, cam follower  616  allows trigger  625  to move sufficiently to ignite the lighter. 
     FIG. 25  shows an alternative embodiment of lighter  702 . Lighter  702  is similar to the lighter  2  shown in FIG.  1 . Lighter  702  includes an actuating assembly that includes a trigger  725  slidably connected to the housing  704 . The lighter  702  further includes wand assembly  710  that is slidable with respect to housing  704 . Similar to lighter  2  of  FIGS. 9-14 , wand assembly  710  includes a camming surface  724  and detents  734   a-d.  Lighter  702  also includes a cam follower  716  with an engaging end  716   a  and a follower end  716   b.  Cam follower  716  is configured similar to cam follower  116  of  FIGS. 9-15 . 
   When wand assembly  710  is in the closed position, shown in  FIG. 25 , follower end  716   b  of cam follower  716  is received in first detent  734   a,  and engaging end  716   a  of cam follower  716  is aligned with engaging portion  762  of trigger  725 . Thus, when wand assembly  710  is in the closed position, cam follower  716  prevents trigger  725  from sliding sufficiently to ignite the lighter  702 . Ignition occurs when the piezoelectric unit  72   b  is activated and fuel is released from fuel unit  711 . In the lighter  702 , the cam follower  716  may rotate clockwise as the wand assembly is extended. 
   In various intermediate positions and the fully-extended position of wand assembly  710  (shown in FIG.  26 ), cam follower  716  is rotated such that follower end  716   b  is within detents  734   b-d  and engaging end  716   a  is out of alignment with engaging portion  762  of trigger  725 . In these positions of wand assembly  710 , cam follower  716  allows trigger  725  to move sufficiently to compress the ignition assembly  726  and ignite the lighter  702 . As discussed above, when the follower end  716   a  is within detents  734   a-d  the wand assembly  710  is in a high-wand-force position. Lighter  702  can be configured so that in various intermediate positions of wand assembly  710 , the trigger  725  cannot move sufficiently to ignite lighter  702 . 
     FIG. 27  shows an alternative embodiment of lighter  802 . Lighter  802  is similar to the lighter  2  shown in FIG.  1 . Lighter  802  includes a housing  804  with support members  804   a  for releasably retaining a conductive strip or member  890  in the housing  804 . Prior to joining the strip  890  to housing  809 , wire  28  (as shown in  FIG. 1B ) is disposed with an uninsulated end in electrical contact with the strip  890 . The uninsulated end may be disposed between the strip  890  and housing  804 . Strip  890  thus retains the wire  28  in this location within the housing  804 . 
   A trigger  825  similar to trigger  25 , discussed above, is coupled to the piezoelectric  826  and includes an electrical conductor  892  electrically connected to electrode  29  (as shown in  FIG. 1A ) of piezoelectric. 
   Referring to  FIGS. 27 and 28 , when installed, the electrical conductor  892  is slidable along conductive strip  890  and strip  890  and conductor  892  electrically connects the wire  28  to electrode  29  (as shown in FIGS.  1 A and  1 B). 
   Referring to  FIGS. 29 and 29A , an alternative embodiment of lighter  2  is shown. Lighter  902  is substantially similar to lighter  2 , shown in  FIGS. 1-4 , with only the differences described herein in detail. Lighter  902  is configured and dimensioned such that the amount of force required to press latch  934  varies depending on the sequence of operation of latch  934  and trigger  925 . More specifically, the amount of force required to press latch  934  may increase if the user presses trigger  925  before pressing latch  934 . Referring to  FIG. 29 , lighter  902  is shown in a high-force mode with trigger  925  in an initial position. In this mode, if a user presses latch  934  before pressing trigger  925 , a first latch force F L1  is required to press latch  934  and switch lighter  902  from the high-force mode to the low-force mode. Referring to  FIG. 29A , if a user presses trigger  925  before attempting to press latch  934 , a second latch force F L2  (which may be, and preferably is, greater than first latch force F L1 ) is required to press latch  934  and switch lighter  902  from the high-force mode to the low-force mode. Thus, if a user attempts to press trigger  925  while lighter  902  is in the high-force mode, and subsequently attempts to press latch  934  to switch lighter  902  to the low-force mode, latch force F L  will increase and may prevent pressing of latch  934 . 
   One illustrative example of a structure that provides this variation in latch force F L  is shown in  FIGS. 29 and 29A . As shown therein, a first engagement surface  967  may be associated with latch member  934 , and a second engagement surface  927  may be associated with a portion of trigger  925  (e.g., with wall  956   c ). For illustrative purposes only, first engagement surface  967  is shown as an inclined surface formed on plunger member  963 , and second engagement surface  927  is shown as a matching inclined surface formed on trigger  925 , although other configurations are possible. For example, first engagement surface  967  may be formed on latch member  934  or piston member  974 , and second engagement surface  927  may be formed on housing  904 . 
   When lighter  902  is in the high-force mode and trigger  925  is in the initial position, as shown in  FIG. 29 , first engagement surface  967  and second engagement surface  927  are configured such that, if a user attempts to press latch  934  to switch lighter  902  to the low-force position, the resultant movement of plunger  963  will cause substantially no engagement between the first engagement surface  967  and the second engagement surface  927 . Thus, in this state, the latch force F L1  required to press latch  934  and switch lighter  902  to the low-force mode need only be sufficient to overcome the forces of spring  992 , optional leaf spring  942 , and any incidental frictional forces. In the lighter of  FIG. 29 , the first engagement surface  967  and the second engagement surface  927  are separated by a distance X, which is sufficient that latch  934  can be moved to the low-force position with first latch force F L1 . 
   If the user presses trigger  925  before pressing latch  934 , as shown in  FIG. 29A , the distance between first engagement surface  967  and second engagement surface  927  decreases (this decreased distance is indicated as X′). As a result, first engagement surface  967  may engage second engagement surface  927  when the user presses latch  934 . This engagement provides resistance to pressing of latch  934  in addition to the resistance provided by spring  992 , optional leaf spring  942 , and any incidental frictional forces, and as a result, latch force F L2  is greater than latch force F L1 . More specifically, interaction between first engagement surface  967  and second engagement surface  927  (e.g., sliding between the matching inclined surfaces) caused by pressing of latch  934 , may cause plunger member  963  to move toward piston member  974  and compress spring  980 . This compression of spring  980  provides additional resistance to movement of latch  934 . Alternatively or additionally, interaction between first engagement surface  967  and second engagement surface  927  may cause trigger  925  and/or latch  934  to move against the users finger, and also provide additional resistance to movement of latch  934 . 
   One of ordinary skill in the art will know and appreciate that lighter  902  may be configured such that trigger  925  may be partially pressed before causing first engagement surface  967  and second engagement surface  927  to engage one another (e.g., the distance X may be large enough that partial depression of trigger  925  does not cause first engagement surface  967  to contact second engagement surface  927  upon initial pressing of latch  934 ). In this case, a user may move trigger  925  a predetermined distance before pressing latch  934 , and the force required to press latch  934  and switch lighter  902  to the low-force mode will remain first latch force F L1 ; however upon moving trigger  925  a distance greater than the predetermined distance, the force required to press latch  934  will increase to second latch force F L2 . 
   Referring to  FIGS. 30 and 30A , a variation of lighter  902  is shown as lighter  1002 . Lighter  1002  is substantially similar to lighter  902 , except that the user may be substantially prevented from pressing latch  1034  if trigger  1025  is pressed before pressing latch  1034 . Thus, if a user presses trigger  1025  while lighter  1002  is in the high-force mode, and subsequently attempts to press latch  1034  to switch lighter  1002  to the low-force mode, first engagement surface  1067  will engage second engagement surface  1027  to substantially prevent or block movement of latch  1034  to the low-force position. This may be accomplished by, for example, forming first engagement surface  1067  and second engagement surface  1027  as surfaces or ledges that overlap or abut when trigger  1025  is pressed before latch  1034 . As shown in  FIGS. 30 and 30A , a slight gap may exist between the first and second engagement surfaces  1067 ,  1027 , such that the first and second engagement surfaces  1067 ,  1027  engage only upon movement of latch  1034  a predetermined distance after movement of trigger  1029  a predetermined distance. Alternatively, there may be substantially no gap between first and second engagement surfaces  1027 ,  1067  such that these surfaces are in contact prior to movement of latch  1034  a predetermined distance. 
   In the illustrative embodiment shown in  FIGS. 30 and 30A , first and second engagement surfaces  1067 ,  1027  are shown substantially parallel to one another, however first and second engagement surfaces  1067 ,  1027  may alternatively be angled with respect to one another. Furthermore, while first and second engagement surfaces  1067 ,  1027  are shown as substantially horizontal surfaces (e.g., substantially parallel with respect to the direction of movement Z of actuating member  1025 ), they may alternatively be slightly angled surfaces (e.g., angled with respect to direction Z). In one illustrative embodiment, first engagement surface  1067  and/or second engagement surface  1027  may be angled by about 5° with respect to direction Z, however other angles are possible. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that first engagement surface  1067  and second engagement surface  1027  are not limited to the configurations shown and other configurations are possible. For example, first engagement surface  1067  may be formed on piston member  1074 , and second engagement surface  1027  may be formed on housing  1004 . Furthermore, first engagement surface  1067  and/or second engagement surface  1027  may be hook-shaped or any other engaging shape known to one skilled in the art. 
   When lighter  1002  is in the high-force mode and trigger  1025  is in the initial position, as shown in  FIG. 30 , first engagement surface  1067  and second engagement surface  1027  are separated by a distance Y. Distance Y is sufficient that, if a user attempts to press latch  1034  to switch lighter  1002  to the low-force position, the resultant movement of plunger  1063  will cause substantially no engagement between the first engagement surface  1067  and the second engagement surface  1027 . Thus, in this state, the user may press latch  1034  to switch lighter  1002  to the low-force mode so long as a latch force F L  sufficient to overcome the forces of spring  1092 , optional leaf spring  1042 , and any incidental frictional forces is applied. 
   If the user presses trigger  1025  before pressing latch  1034 , as shown in  FIG. 30A , the first engagement surface  1067  overlaps the second engagement surface  1027 . As a result, first engagement surface  1067  abuts second engagement surface  1027  when the user presses latch  1034 . This substantially prevents or blocks pressing of latch  1034 . To press latch  1034  when first engagement surface  1067  abuts second engagement surface  1027 , the user would have to provide enough force to break or deform one or more components of lighter  1002 . Thus, according to this embodiment, a user is substantially prevented from moving latch  1034  to the low-force mode if trigger  1025  is pressed before latch  1034  is pressed. 
   One of ordinary skill in the art will know and appreciate that lighter  1002  may be configured such that trigger  1025  may be partially pressed before causing first engagement surface  1067  and second engagement surface  1027  to engage one another. In this case, a user may move trigger  1025  a predetermined distance before pressing latch  1034 , and may still be able to press latch  1034  and switch lighter  1002  to the low-force mode; however upon moving trigger  1025  a distance larger than the predetermined distance, the first and second engagement surfaces  1067 ,  1027  will engage to substantially prevent or block movement of latch  1034 . 
   Referring to  FIGS. 31 and 31A , another variation of lighter  902  is shown as lighter  1102 . In this embodiment, movement of trigger  1125  a predetermined distance before movement of latch  1134  may disable the function of latch  1134  (i.e., latch  1134  may still be moved from the first latch position to the second latch position, but this movement will not effectuate the function of latch  1134  (e.g., to switch the lighter from a high-force mode to a low-force mode)). This may be accomplished, for example, by configuring latch  1134  and/or plunger  1164  such that latch  1134  becomes substantially disassociated from plunger  1164  upon movement of trigger  1125  a predetermined distance before pressing latch  1134 . More specifically, as shown in  FIG. 31 , when trigger  1125  is in the initial position (i.e., non-depressed position), boss  1136   a  and plunger  1164  are at least partially aligned with one another (e.g., have a slight overlap), such that pressing latch  1134  may impart movement to plunger  1164  from the high-force position (shown) to the low-force position (not shown). In the state shown in  FIG. 31 , the latch force F L1  required to press latch  1134  and switch lighter  1102  to the low-force mode need only be sufficient to overcome the forces of spring  1192 , optional leaf spring  1142 , and any incidental frictional forces. As shown in  FIG. 31A , however, when trigger  1125  is moved a predetermined distance before pressing latch  1134 , boss  1136   a  and plunger  1164  are shifted out of alignment (e.g., there is no overlap), and as a result, pressing latch  1134  will not move plunger  1164  from the high-force position to the low-force position. In the state shown in  FIG. 31A , the latch force F L2  required to press latch  1134  need only be sufficient to overcome the forces of optional leaf spring  1142  and any incidental frictional forces, however, as discussed above, movement of latch  1134  will not switch lighter  1102  to the low-force mode. One of ordinary skill in the art will know and understand that lighter  1102  is not limited to the structures shown and described, and that any number of configurations may be implemented to disable the function of latch  1134  upon movement of trigger  1125  a predetermined amount before pressing latch  1134 . 
   One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that lighters  902 ,  1002 ,  1102  are not limited to the structures shown and described, and that any number of structures may be implemented to vary the latch force. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that latch  934 ,  1034 ,  1134  is not limited to a “dual-mode” latch, as described herein, and alternatively or additionally may control other functions of the lighter. 
   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 specific 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 wire  28  (shown in  FIG. 1B ) may be replaced by an at least partially helically coiled spring concentrically disposed outside of conduit  23 ; in which case, the helically coiled spring is preferably at least partially insulated to prevent undesirable arcing from the spring to other components of the lighter. 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 (e.g., a trigger and latch), in an alternative embodiment, the low-force mode may rely on the user operating further additional components (e.g., a trigger and two latches; or a trigger, a latch, and a gas-release button). 
   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 lighter  2  (in  FIGS. 1 ) can lack spring  53 . In such an embodiment, the plunger member  63  can be configured to include a projection and the housing  4  or another component can interact with the projection so that in the high-force mode the spring  80  is allowed to be compressed to resist lighter ignition. When the trigger is released after ignition in the high-force mode, the spring  80  returns 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 lighter  2  can 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.