Abstract:
Disclosed is a hot plate warming apparatus adapted to warm a candle or other object resting thereon, as well as to provide illumination that simulates the effects of a lighted burning candle. The apparatus may include an adjustable cord apparatus, a light source, and/or a component enabling attachment of other peripheral components. The light source is positioned proximal to the hot plate for providing illumination to an object or substance resting on the hot plate or housing. The adjustable cord apparatus provides electricity to the warming apparatus while allowing a user to alter the length of the cord that is extending from the warming apparatus. The apparatus also comprises a blower to facilitate heating of a candle placed thereon, as well as to cause scented particles emanating from the melted wax or wax-like substance to be better dispersed or dissipated into the surrounding air. The attachment component permits additional peripheral components or materials to be removably coupled to the warming apparatus, such as interchangeable face plates, covers, craft objects, or module objects.

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/379,094 filed on May 9, 2002 and entitled, “Illuminating Candle Warming Apparatus.” 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates to a warming apparatus. More particularly, the present invention relates to a warming apparatus adapted to warm a substance, such as a scented candle or other object resting thereon, the apparatus configured to include one or more of an adjustable cord apparatus, a light source for illuminating a candle, or auxiliary attachment means for attaching decorative or functional items. 
     2. Background of the Invention and Related Art 
     Warming apparatuses, such as hot plates, are adapted to provide heat to an object or substance in contact therewith. A vast array of uses and configurations of warming apparatuses have been developed. Current warming apparatuses range from the simple wire coil heaters for warming food to the composite ceramic electromechanical assemblies used in complex manufacturing. 
     In recent years, warming device or hot plate technology has been adapted to provide an alternative means of heating scented candles. Scented candles have become enormously popular sale items in boutiques, gift stores, craft centers, and even gun shows. Manufacturers and retailers offer scented candles in a variety of configurations and aromas. Scented candles are typically sold in glass or ceramic containers. The container provides both a means of controlling wax loss and as decorative packaging for the candle. When a user lights the wick of the scented candle, heat from the combustion of the wick slowly melts the candle wax and heats the perfume or other substance responsible for producing the desired scent. Once the wax reaches a molten state, the scented particles are released or escape from the wax or other candle mediums. 
     Although popular and pleasant, there are a number drawbacks to burning candles as an aroma-delivery device. The open flame of a candle can create a fire risk when burned in a user&#39;s home. Additionally, the combustion of the wick and wax consumes a large percentage of the aroma contained in the wax. Waxy residues emitted by the burning candle often become deposited on nearby walls, drapes, furniture, carpet, and ventilation systems. Such residues can be unsightly, may cause damage, are dangerous, and are not easily removed. To provide an alternative method of releasing the aroma from scented candles, some have used a simple hot plate to provide a heating mechanism for melting the wax without requiring combustion of the candle wax or wick. Because the hot plate obviates the need to burn the candle wick, the wax is itself not depleted or emitted into the air. Only the scent is emitted into the air. Even when heated to liquification, little or no wax is emitted into the air. 
     FIG. 1 illustrates a simple candle warming apparatus  10  adapted for warming scented candles. Warming apparatus  10  comprises a hot plate  12 , a housing  14 , a switch  16 , and a cord  18 . The hot plate  12  is sized so as to warm a standard sized scented candle resting thereon. The housing  14  is adapted to surround the hot plate  12  while providing a covering to the internal wiring and internal heating element of the warming apparatus  10 . The switch  16  is used to selectively activate and deactivate the hot plate  12 . The cord  18  is of a standard length and provides an electrical connection to a standard AC outlet, thus providing the energy needed to heat the hot plate  12 . The candle warming apparatus  10  is substantially similar to coffee mug warming devices. 
     The candle warming apparatus  10 , while providing a mechanism to heat a scented candle, nevertheless suffers from several deficiencies. First, although capable of melting the candle wax so as to cause the emission of aroma therefrom, the soft, warm, ambient glow of the lit candle, preferred by many candle enthusiasts, is absent. As a result, the candle warming apparatus  10 , while releasing the aroma of the candle, provides an inadequate alternative to an actual burning candle for many candle lovers. Second, the cord  18  is of a fixed length and is located in a fixed location. As a result, in those cases where the entire cord length is not needed, it can provide an aesthetically displeasing effect. Moreover, a cord left to dangle or with excessive slack can cause a hazard of being snagged or looped around a person&#39;s foot (e.g., a child or careless adult), thereby potentially causing the warming apparatus  10  and candle to fall to the ground. Third, no mechanism is provided for varying the temperature of the warming apparatus  10  in order to account for variations in the melting temperature of different waxes used to make scented candles. In general, because the warming apparatus  10  is merely an adapted coffee mug warmer, it lacks a variety of desirable features geared to the serious scented candle burning enthusiast. 
     Accordingly, an improved warming apparatus in multiple embodiments and comprising one or more improved features is disclosed and claimed herein. 
     SUMMARY AND OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION 
     In accordance with the invention as embodied and broadly described herein, the present invention features a warming apparatus, and more particularly, a heating surface, such as a hot plate apparatus, adapted to warm a scented candle or other object resting thereon, wherein the heating surface comprises a number of additional features to enhance the candle burning experience. Although any object containing a substance, such as a wax or wax-like substance, is intended to be included within the scope of the present invention, for the purposes of discussion, a scented candle will be used throughout to represent the object of preference. This is not meant to be limiting in any way, but is meant to be used for illustrative purposes only. 
     The warming apparatus of the present invention is configured to include one or a combination of features, such as one or more light sources for illuminating the candle and/or the warming device, a cord-adjusting apparatus, and/or auxiliary attachment means for attaching decorative or functional items, such as seasonal or holiday oriented designs, various art and craft designs, etc., to the warming apparatus. 
     In one exemplary embodiment, the warming apparatus includes a heating surface or a hot plate and means for illuminating an object, such as a candle. Means for illuminating an object comprises a light source operable with the warming apparatus that functions to provide or simulate the same or similar visual effects as existing in a burning candle. Preferably, the light source is embedded within or near the heating surface so that the light may penetrate the liquefied substance within the container resting atop and in contact with and being heated by the heating surface. The heating surface may comprises a heat source of any known or desired means, such as a resistive heating device, halogen lighting, coil heating, etc. In a preferred embodiment, the heating surface is heated by means of a ceramic heating element. Ceramic heating elements are advantageous because they can generate adequate quantities of heat energy within a controlled temperature range. 
     The light source may be located internally or externally relative to the heating surface of the warming apparatus. As stated, in a preferred embodiment, the light source is embedded or otherwise disposed within the heating surface or other location of the hot plate in order to illuminate the candle (or some other type of container containing a wax or wax-like substance) through either the bottom surface or a side surface, or both, of the candle. In addition to, or instead of a light source disposed within the hot plate, one or more light sources may be located on or within the housing of the warming apparatus surrounding the hot plate in order to illuminate the candle through the sidewall of the candle container. 
     The light source can be adapted to provide a constant warm glow. Alternatively, the light source can be adapted to replicate or simulate the flicker and lighting of a burning candle. A combination of lights in various locations can be utilized in order to provide a multiplicity of lighting effects, such as a continuous warm background glow and/or intermittent flickering. The several different configurations and lighting effects are not all discussed herein as one ordinarily skilled in the art will recognize the possibilities. 
     The warming apparatus of the present invention further features an adjustable power cord apparatus. In one aspect, the adjustable power cord apparatus may be adapted to allow the user to alter the length of the cord extending from the housing of the warming apparatus. In another aspect, the user may be able to reposition the relative location of the power cord and where the power cord extends from the housing to account for varying locations of power outlets relative to the warming device. This also helps to prevent an excess of visible cord length. The adjustable cord apparatus itself preferably comprises a cord retention mechanism adapted to secure some or all of the electrical cord adjacent to, or within, the housing of the warming apparatus. 
     In one exemplary embodiment, the cord retention mechanism is designed to be concealed in a recess existing on the underside of the housing. Slots positioned around the perimeter of the underside of the housing may be included to provide varying exit points for the cord from the housing. The cord retention mechanism may be adapted to permit a user to coil or spool some or all of the cord around the retention mechanism such that the retained portion of the cord is not seen when the warming apparatus is in use. The cord retention mechanism may provide manual (e.g., by means of a stationary spool) or automatic spooling of the cord (e.g. a biased mechanism or device, such as a rotatable spring coil mechanism). 
     In yet another embodiment, the warming apparatus of the present invention may include auxiliary attachment means. The auxiliary attachment means is adapted to permit additional components and/or materials to be selectively coupled to the warming apparatus. In one embodiment, the auxiliary attachment means comprises a plurality of slots or recesses that are adapted to allow decorative face plates, covers, and similar items to be selectively attached to the warming apparatus as desired. These decorative face plates and covers are preferably interchangeable to allow the warming apparatus of the present invention to feature various designs, themes, and looks as desirable. Such slots or recesses may also accommodate one or more clips that can be used to hold a decorative sleeve around the candle, such as a transparent plastic sleeve having decorations printed thereon, a colored sleeve and/or a sleeve that has been cut or stamped so as to have various designs or reliefs. 
     Other features that may be incorporated within, or used in conjunction with, the warming devices according to the invention include, but are not limited to, the following: internal lighting means for illuminating the warming apparatus itself in addition to, or instead of, lighting the candle; a housing having a desired decorative shape (e.g., a tear drop); a housing that is transparent or that is of a desired color or design; interchangeable face plates; interchangeable decorative sleeves for different occasions (seasonal changes, holidays, birthdays, anniversaries or other special occasions); a non-stick coating for the hot plate (e.g., Teflon) to provide easy cleaning; plastic under the hot plate for a nonpermeable plate in between the lights; lighting features so that the warming device can function as a night light (e.g., it can remain illuminated even when not warming a candle); a built-in voltage adapter to accommodate different voltages around the world and obviate the need for an external voltage converter; changeable electric plugs to accommodate different outlets worldwide; a built in timer for automatically turning on and off the heating and/or lighting features; fan and fan vents to assist in heating taller, larger or hard to heat candles, as well as providing means for circulating the air to facilitate dissemination of the scented particles through the air; a heat focusing sleeve that can be used to focus or redirect heat from an oversized hot plate to an undersized candle, including interchangeable heat focusing sleeves that can accommodate a variety of differently-sized candles; dimming means for controlling the intensity of illumination from the lighting sources, wherein the dimming means may comprise a variable or adjustable heating surface to accommodate or allow for various amounts of escaping light; and a rheostat and/or thermostat for regulating the temperature of the heat emitted by the hot plate in order to maintain a desired temperature for a given type of candle wax. 
     These and other features of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forth hereinafter. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     In order that the manner in which the above-recited and other advantages and features of the invention are obtained, a more particular description of the invention briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof which are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are not therefore to be considered limiting of its scope, the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which: 
     FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a prior art warming apparatus. 
     FIG. 2 is a top perspective view illustrating a warming apparatus according to the present invention that is able to illuminate a candle or other object resting thereon. 
     FIG. 3 is a cross-section view of the warming apparatus of FIG. 2 taken along cutting line  3 — 3 . 
     FIG. 4 is a bottom perspective view of the warming apparatus of FIG. 2 showing features that allow for adjustments to cord length and position relative to the warming apparatus housing. 
     FIG. 5A is a perspective view of the warming apparatus of FIG. 2 with the cord positioned so that at least a portion of the cord extends from the right side of the warming apparatus rather than the rear as in FIG.  2 . 
     FIG. 5B is a perspective view of the warming apparatus of FIG. 2 with the cord positioned so that at least a portion of the cord extends from the front of the warming apparatus. 
     FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of an adjustable cord utilizing a rotatable spool with coiled spring to more precisely adjust the cord length as desired. 
     FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a warming apparatus according to the present invention illustrating the manner in which a light source disposed within the hot plate can be used to illuminate a transparent or translucent object resting on the hot plate. 
     FIG. 8 depicts an embodiment of a warming apparatus according to the present invention in which a decorative sleeve is attached to the warming apparatus. 
     FIG. 9 depicts an embodiment of a warming apparatus in which the lighting source is located external to the hot plate so as to illuminate a transparent or translucent object from the side. 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     It will be readily understood that the components of the present invention, as generally described and illustrated in the figures herein, could be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. Thus, the following more detailed description of the embodiments of the system and method of the present invention, and represented in FIGS. 1 through 9, is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, as claimed, but is merely representative of the presently preferred embodiments of the invention. 
     The presently preferred embodiments of the invention will be best understood by reference to the drawings wherein like parts are designated by like numerals throughout. 
     The present invention features a warming apparatus. More particularly the invention features a hot plate apparatus adapted to warm an object, such as a scented candle or other object resting thereon. The apparatus can be configured to include one, or a combination of, features, such as one or more light sources for illuminating the candle and/or the warming device, a cord-adjusting apparatus, and/or attachment means for attaching decorative items to the warming apparatus. 
     While the following description details the preferred embodiment of the present invention warming apparatus, the disclosure herein is not meant to be limiting in any way. Indeed, one ordinarily skilled in the art will recognize other features and advantages not necessarily or specifically recited or recognized herein, but that fall within the scope of the invention as described and claimed. 
     In order to more succinctly set forth the advantages and functions of the present invention warming apparatus, the following disclosure will feature four focused areas of discussion as follows: 1) the warming apparatus and its functions; 2) the adjustable cord feature; 3) the means for illuminating or the light source; and 4) the attachment apparatus. 
     WARMING APPARATUS 
     With reference now to FIG. 2 there is shown a warming apparatus  100  according to one embodiment of the present invention. In the illustrated embodiment, warming apparatus  100  comprises a heating surface (e.g. hot plate)  110 , a housing  120 , a switch  130 , an adjustable cord apparatus  140 , a light source  160 , and attachment means  170 . There is also shown an on/off LED  132  and a cord outlet  146 . Warming apparatus  100  is configured to provide heat to an object or substance resting thereon. 
     While in the illustrated embodiment warming apparatus  100  has a generally circular or oval shape, any of a variety of configurations are possible. For example, warming apparatus  100  can be adapted to have a decorative shape, such as a tear drop or flower. The warming apparatus  100  can also be adapted to heat objects and substances having different sizes, properties, and configurations. In one embodiment the surface area of heating surface  110  is adapted to correspond with the bottom surface area of a small candle. In an alternative embodiment, a larger warming apparatus  100  is provided having one or more vents to heat the sides of a taller or more massive candle. 
     Heating surface  110  is adapted to transfer heat to an object or substance in contact therewith from a heating element (not shown). For example, heating element and heating surface  110  can warm an aromatic candle contained in a glass container. By providing additional heat to the candle, the aroma of the candle can be released without lighting the candle. Not only does this preserve the life of the candle, but can also reduce the fire hazard that can be caused by having a lit candle in a dwelling. The use of heating surface  110  is not limited to heating of aromatic candles. Heating surface  110  can also be used to heat other objects or substances, such as coffee mugs, tea cups, etc. 
     Housing  120  is adapted to provide a full or partial covering to internal circuitry associated with heating surface  110 . Housing  120  provides an insulating covering to protect a user from inadvertent electrical shock or burn caused by touching the internal wiring or heating element associated with heating surface  110 . Housing  120  can be comprised of a single unit, or two or more sections adapted to be coupled together. Housing  120  can also be adapted to provide features in addition to the covering of the internal circuitry. For example, housing  120  can be adapted with an annular flange surrounding the surface of heating surface  110 . The annular flange would provide a mechanism for keeping an object from sliding off the surface of heating surface  110 . Housing  120  can also provide decorative features to warming apparatus  100 . For example, housing  120  can be adapted to receive a decorative faceplate having a custom design. 
     Switch  130  provides a method of actuating and deactivating warming apparatus  100 . A variety of switch mechanisms can be utilized to actuate or deactivate heating element and heating surface  110 . In the illustrated embodiment, switch  130  comprises a three-way switch. Switch  130  will be discussed in greater detail with reference to FIG.  7 . On/off LED  132  operates in connection with switch  130 . On/off LED  132  is utilized to provide a visual indication that heating surface  110  is actuated. 
     With reference to FIG. 4, there is also provided an adjustable cord apparatus  140 . Adjustable cord apparatus  140  is adapted to provide electricity to a heating element associated with heating surface  110  while allowing the user to alter the length of the electrical cord that is extending from the warming apparatus. Adjustable cord apparatus  140  can include a plurality of outlet slots  146 . Outlet slots  146  allow the user to affix the electrical cord to housing  120 . Outlet slots  146  provide alternative positions at which the cord can extend from the warming apparatus  100 . The adjustable cord apparatus  140  will be discussed in greater detail with reference to FIGS. 4,  5   a ,  5   b , and  6 . 
     Light source  160  is adapted to provide illumination to an object or substance resting on heating surface  110  or housing  120 . For example, light source  160  can illuminate a candle resting on heating surface  110 . To provide illumination to the object or substance, light source  160  is adapted to be proximal to heating surface  110 . Light source  120  can comprise one or more types of known lighting mechanisms. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, light source  120  comprises a first light emitting diode (LED)  160   a  and a second LED  160   b.    
     It will be understood by one skilled in the art, that a variety of types and configurations of light source  160  can be utilized within the scope and spirit of the present invention. For example, light source  160  can comprise one or more incandescent or halogen bulbs. In the case of a halogen bulb, such may also be used to serve as heating means to heat heating surface  110 . Light source  160  can be coupled to housing  120  or emanate from below heating surface  110 . In one embodiment, light source  160  provides a focused illumination. In an alternative embodiment light source  160  is configured to wrap around the rim portion of housing  120 . Light source can be adapted to illuminate an object resting on heating surface  110  (i.e. candle), an object resting on housing  120  (i.e. decorative cover,) or the warming apparatus  100  itself. In one embodiment, illumination of the warming apparatus can be provided independent of actuation of hot plate  100 . This allows a user to selectively illuminate the warming apparatus  100 , such that warming apparatus  100  can be employed as nightlight or decorative accent. Light source  160  will be discussed in greater detail with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8. 
     Attachment means or apparatus  170  is provided to permit additional components or materials to be coupled to the warming apparatus. In the illustrated embodiment, attachment means  170  comprises a plurality of slots,  170   a  and  170   b , configured to allow a decorative cover to be attached to the warming apparatus. In one embodiment, the decorative cover is attached to warming apparatus  100  using tabs that are insertable into slots  170   a  and  170   b . Attachment means  170  will be discussed in greater detail with reference to FIG.  8 . 
     FIG. 2 further illustrates temperature switch  230  and timer  240 . Temperature switch  230  provides for varying temperature control to heating surface  110 . Timer  240  allows one to set the time at which heating element or heating surface  110  will be actuated. Timer  240  may be set to allow any length of time for the actuation of heating surface  110 . Once the set amount of time elapses, timer  240  deactivates heating surface  110  and warming apparatus  100  shuts off. Each of these features provides desirable advantages as well as safety precautions. 
     FIG. 3 is a side cut-away view illustrating one embodiment of the warming apparatus of the present invention. There is shown heating surface  110 , first and second LED&#39;s  160   a  and  160   b , and adjustable cord apparatus  140 . In the illustrated embodiment, heating surface  110  comprises a hot plate contacting surface  112 , a heating element  114 , and a circuit board  116 . Hot plate contacting surface  112  comprises a metal, ceramic, or other material capable of conducting heat to an object or substance in contact therewith. Hot plate contacting surface  112  can be coated with Teflon, or another no-stick coating, to allow for easy cleaning. 
     Heating element  114  is coupled to the hot plate contacting surface  112 . Heating element  114  is positioned below hot plate contacting surface  112  such that heating element  114  is enclosed by hot plate contacting surface  112  and housing  120 . In the preferred embodiment, heating element  114  is comprised of a ceramic material due to the advantageous properties of ceramic heaters. In an alterative embodiment, heating element  114  is comprised of an element comprised of metal, wire coil, or other materials and constructions adapted to provide heat to hot plate contacting surface  112 . 
     Circuit board  116  is adapted to provide logic functions required to actuate and deactivate heating surface  110  and first and second LEDs  160   a  and  160   b . In one embodiment, circuit board  116  operates in connection with an adjustable rheostat, allowing a user to adoptively alter the temperature of hot plate contacting surface  112  in correspondence with the properties of the object or material resting thereon. For example, the rheostat can be configured to provide temperatures adapted to the particular temperature requirements of different candles (i.e. based on size of the candle or the type of container/wax.) Heating surface  110  can also include additional components. For example, in one embodiment a plastic coating is included under hot plate contacting surface  112 . The plastic coating provides an impermeable seal to protect the internal circuitry of heating surface  110  and/or the light source. In another embodiment, a voltage adapter is included in the internal circuitry of heating surface  110  to allow the warming apparatus  100  to be used with different power sources of different voltages. In yet another alternative embodiment, a timer is included to control the functionality of heating surface  110  and/or the light source. 
     The cross sectional view of FIG. 3 illustrates the manner in which a light source can be coupled to heating surface  110 . In the illustrated embodiment, first and second LEDs  160   a,b  are positioned such that the tip of first and second LEDs  160   a,b  fill apertures in hot plate contacting surface  112 . The LED&#39;s can be integrally or separably coupled to hot plate contacting surface  112 . FIG. 3 also illustrates an adjustable cord apparatus  140 . Adjustable cord apparatus  140  is adapted such that the user can alter the length of the electrical cord that is extending from the warming apparatus. The adjustable cord apparatus  140  will be discussed in greater detail with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5. 
     ADJUSTABLE CORD APPARATUS 
     FIG. 4 is a bottom view illustrating one embodiment of the adjustable cord apparatus  140  of the present invention. In the illustrated embodiment, adjustable cord apparatus  140  comprises a cord  142 , a cord retention mechanism  144 , and cord outlets  146   a-d . There is also shown housing recess  150  and scuff pads  180   a-d . Adjustable cord apparatus  140  provides electricity to heating surface  110  while allowing the user to alter the length of the cord that is extending from warming apparatus  100 . 
     Cord  142  comprises an electrical cord that is electrically connected to the internal circuitry of heating surface  110 . Cord  142  provides a mechanism for providing electricity to heating surface  110 . In the illustrated embodiment, cord  142  is an electrical cord of a type that is typically used with small electronic appliances. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, any electrical cord can be utilized that is suited to the requirements of warming apparatus  100 . In one embodiment, electrical cord  142  is adapted to have changeable electrical plugs allowing the warming apparatus to be plugged into electrical outlets having different configurations. 
     Cord retention mechanism  144  is adapted to secure some or all of the cord proximate to housing  120 . In the illustrate embodiment cord retention mechanism permits the user to coil cord  142 . Cord retention mechanism  144  includes a plurality of projections  145   a-d . Cord  142  is positioned such that a retained cord portion  142   a  is wrapped below projections  145   a-d , while an extended cord portion  142   b  projects from the warming apparatus  100 . Projections  145   a-d  hold the retained cord portion  142   a  in a tightly coiled configuration while allowing the user to alter the length of extended cord portion  142   b  by coiling, or uncoiling cord  142  from the cord retention mechanism  144 . 
     Cord outlets  146   a-d  are adapted to receive cord  142 . In one embodiment, cord outlets  146   a-d  comprise a plurality of slots adapted to permit the user to affix the cord to housing  120 , thus providing alternative positions at which the cord can extend from warming apparatus  100 . In an alternative embodiment, cord outlets  146   a-d  permit the user to vary the length of extended cord portion  142   b.    
     In the illustrated embodiment, a housing recess  150  is provided to conceal adjustable cord apparatus  140 . By concealing the adjustable cord apparatus  140 , housing recess  150  permits the retained cord portion  142   a  and the cord retention mechanism  144  to be concealed when the warming apparatus  100  is in use. Thus, unneeded portions of cord  142  can be quickly and efficiently secured and concealed to provide a more tidy appearance to the warming apparatus  100 . Scuff pads  180   a-d  are coupled to housing  120 . Scuff pads  180   a-d  prevent scratches in surfaces on which warming apparatus  100  is placed. Scuff pads  180   a-d  can be adapted to provide a variety of benefits in addition to scratch prevention. For example, scuff pads can be adapted to provide slip resistance or separation between housing  120  and a counter top surface. 
     Also illustrated in FIG. 4 is voltage converter  220  allowing warming apparatus  100  to switch or alternate voltage levels, shown in FIG. 4 as either 110 or 220 volts. Voltage converter  220  compensates for varying circuitry and power levels existing within a location. 
     FIGS. 5 a  and  5   b  are perspective views of warming apparatus  100  illustrating the way in which adjustable cord apparatus  140  can be used to vary the configuration and length of the cord extending from warming apparatus  100 . With reference now to FIG. 5 a , there is shown a configuration of warming apparatus  100  in which the extended cord portion  142   b  has a first length. The first length of extended cord portion  142   b  is a shorter length. The shorter cord length is accomplished by securing the majority of cord  142  proximate housing  120  utilizing cord retention mechanism  144 . Cord  142  is affixed to housing  120  using cord outlet  146 . Due to the position of cord outlet  146 , cord  142  extends from warming apparatus  100  from a side different or opposite switch  130 . 
     With reference now to FIG. 5 b , there is shown a configuration of warming apparatus  100  in which the extended cord portion  142   b  has a second length. The second length of extended cord portion  142   b  is a longer length achieved by securing a minority of cord  142  proximate to housing  120  utilizing cord retention mechanism  144 . Cord  142  is affixed to housing  120  using cord outlet  146   c . Due to the position of cord outlet  146   c , cord  142  extends from warming apparatus  100  from the side proximate switch  130 . Thus, it can be seen that by utilizing adjustable cord apparatus  140  a user can alter the length of cord  142  extending from the warming apparatus. 
     Cord outlets  146   a-d  also allow the user to alter the configuration of warming apparatus  100  by permitting the user to alternate the position at which cord  142  extends from warming apparatus  100 . By permitting the user to alter the length and configuration of cord  142  extending from warming apparatus  100 , the user can secure unneeded lengths of electrical cord in a concealed fashion. The ability to secure a portion of cord  142  can be useful where the distance between the warming apparatus  100  and the electrical outlet is less than the length of cord  142 . The adjustable cord apparatus  140  can also be useful for neatly storing cord  142  when the warming apparatus  100  is not in use. 
     With reference now to FIG. 6, there is shown an alternative embodiment of adjustable cord apparatus  140 . In the illustrated embodiment, the adjustable cord apparatus  140  comprises a spring or biasing coil mechanism. The spring coil mechanism is adapted to provide a method of effortlessly altering the length of cord  142  extending from warming apparatus  100 . The spring coil is located internal to housing  120  of warming apparatus  100 . This permits some, or all of, cord  142  to be secured and concealed internally in housing  120 . 
     Essentially, spring coil mechanism rotates with respect to housing  120  to coil and uncoil cord  142 . As cord  142  uncoils, the tension in the spring or biasing member increases having a tendency to want to re-coil and rotate in an opposing direction than taken to uncoil cord  142 . However, a locking mechanism may be in place to prevent adjustable cord apparatus  140  from re-coiling until desired. If a shorter length of cord is needed, adjustable cord apparatus  140 , and particularly spring coil mechanism, is actuated so that adjustable cord apparatus  140  is causes to rotate and re-coil or wind cord  142  to a desired length. 
     While alternative embodiments of adjustable cord apparatus  140  have been described with reference to FIGS. 4,  5   a ,  5   c , and  6 , it will be appreciated that additional embodiments of the adjustable cord apparatus can be utilized within the scope and spirit of the present invention. 
     ILLUMINATION MEANS OR LIGHTING SOURCE 
     FIG. 7 illustrates the manner in which a user can utilize illumination means or a light source  160  to illuminate internally, from within, or the outside of an object resting on heating surface  110 . There is shown a heating surface  110 , a switch  130 , a candle  190 , and a power source  200 . As previously discussed, heating surface  110  is adapted to provide heat to an object resting thereon. Switch  130  provides a mechanism for actuating and deactivating heating surface  110 . In the illustrated embodiment, switch  130  comprises a three-way switch having a switch knob  134 . Switch knob  134  allows a user to control functionality associated with warming apparatus  100 . When switch knob  134  is in a first position  136   a , heating surface  110  is actuated and the light source is illuminated. When switch knob  134  is in a second position  136   b , both heating surface  110  and the light source are deactivated. When switch knob  134  is in a third position  136   c , heating surface  110  is actuated while the light source is deactivated. A light emitting diode (LED)  132  may be implemented to show or indicate that warming apparatus  100  is actuated and heating. 
     While switch  130  comprises a three-way switch, any variety of mechanisms for actuating and deactivating heating surface  110  and/or light source can be utilized. For example, one or more simple on/off switches can be utilized. Alternatively, a rheostat providing adjustable temperature functionality can be provided. Alternatively, the user can be required to actuate and deactivate the hot plate and/or the light source by simply attaching and detaching cord  142  to and from power source  200 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, switch knob  134  is in first position  136   a . Accordingly, heating surface  110  is actuated and the light source is illuminated. Illumination of the light source causes illumination of the object resting on heating surface  110 . Preferably, the illumination of the object is internal or from within to simulate various lighting effects of a burning candle. In the illustrated embodiment, the object resting on heating surface  110  is candle  190 . Where the light source is integrally coupled to heating surface  110  (see FIG.  2 ), illumination of the light source is most readily apparent where the candle, or liquefied wax, is at least partially transparent. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the light source is coupled to either heating surface  110  or housing  120  such that opaque objects and/or substances resting on hot plate  120  are illuminated. Illumination of objects resting on warming apparatus  100  can be adapted to a variety of functions. For example, a candle can be illuminated to emphasize the color of the candle wax or to replicate a burning candle. In an alternative embodiment, the light source can be utilized to provide lighting for decorative objects and/or features associated with warming apparatus  100  (see FIG.  8 ). Illumination may be created to be emanate partially from the object or totally from the object. For example, partial illumination may be achieved by providing one or more lighting sources targeted or directed towards the object, as shown in FIG.  9 . Total illumination, or illumination emanating from within the object, may be achieved by using lighting sources  160  as illustrated in FIG.  2 . 
     ATTACHMENT APPARATUS 
     FIG. 8 shows one embodiment of the warming apparatus  100  of the present invention illustrating the method in which attachment means  170  can be utilized. Attachment means  170  permits additional and/or peripheral components, materials, objects, devices, covers, faceplates, light sources, etc. (collectively known as peripherals) to be coupled or interchangeably coupled to warming apparatus  100 . In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, attachment means  170  comprises a plurality of slots  170   a  and  170   b  configured to allow a peripheral to be attached to warming apparatus  100 . Slots  170   a  and  170   b  are integrally coupled to housing  120 . Slots  170   a  and  170   b  are configured to receive corresponding tabs included on the peripheral. Slots  170   a  and  170   b  and tabs of the peripheral allow the peripheral to be selectively attached and removed from warming apparatus  100 . 
     The slot and tab assembly described herein and shown in the drawings is not meant to be limiting in any way. As will be recognized by those skilled in the art, attachment means  170  is not limited to the configuration of the illustrated embodiment. A variety of configurations and mechanisms can be employed in scope and spirit of the present invention. For example, attachment means  170  may comprise one or more clips configured to allow materials or modules to be attached to the warming apparatus, or attachment means  170  may comprise other various known devices, structures, assemblies, etc. designed to allow one or more peripherals to be removably coupled to warming apparatus  100 . For example, warming apparatus  100 , and particularly attachment means  170 , may comprise snaps, Velcro®, a tongue and groove assembly, a snap-fit extension and receiver assembly, threading, an interference fit assembly, or any other known and obvious means capable of removably coupling a peripheral item to the warming apparatus. 
     As stated, warming apparatus  100  is designed to accept several different types of peripherals through use of attachment means  170 . In one exemplary embodiment, warming apparatus  100  is adapted to receive one or more face plates thereon. The face plates are preferably interchangeable in order to accommodate the changing of several themes or to be adaptable to different environments, etc. in which warming apparatus  100  may be placed. However, if desirable, these face plates may be fixed or rigidly attached. Moreover, the face plates may comprise any color, shape, wording, graphic, or texture as desirable. For example, the several face plates may comprise themes corresponding to the several holidays existing throughout the year, such as Christmas, Thanksgiving, Halloween, and Valentine&#39;s Day, or may comprise various designs, colors, and/or patterns to match the interior design of the particular environment in which warming apparatus  100  is placed. Essentially, the present invention contemplates the ability to alter its physical appearance and design through the interchanging of one or more detachable face plates. 
     None of the peripherals described herein interfere with the normal operation of warming apparatus  100 , but rather will serve to complement both the aesthetics and the functionality of warming apparatus  100 , either by making it more adaptable to a particular environment, or by providing a more desirable experience, or by increasing the illuminating characteristics of the apparatus, with these not meant to be limiting. 
     In another exemplary embodiment, shown in FIG. 8, warming apparatus  100  is adapted to receive a peripheral in the form of decorative cover  210 . Decorative cover  210  may include a cover design  212  to enhance the aesthetics of the cover. The configuration of decorative cover  210  can include a variety of designs and colors. For example, the decorative cover can have a uniform opaque, variable transparent, or semitransparent design, or any other conceivable configuration. As shown, decorative cover  210  is comprised primarily of an opaque material. 
     Cover design  212  may be added to lend aesthetic ornamentation to decorative cover  210 . As shown in FIG. 8, the portion of decorative cover  210  corresponding to cover design  212  comprises an aperture or transparent material allowing the light source to provide a backlight to accent or highlight cover design  212 . The light source and the peripheral, namely the cover and cover design, can be utilized to achieve a variety of different aesthetic features. In one exemplary embodiment, a decorative cover configured to substantially cover a candle resting on the hot plate is affixed to the warming apparatus utilizing the attachment apparatus. The light source is adapted to provide a flickering illumination, thus lending the impression that the candle is lit. 
     In yet another exemplary embodiment, warming apparatus  100  is adapted to receive a peripheral in the form of one or more crafts and/or modules. Example crafts may include such items as flowers, wreaths, shams, skirts, etc. Modules may include any device or structure or item that protrudes out from warming apparatus  100  and that is removably attached to warming apparatus  100  using attachment means  170 . For example, during Christmas, one may wish to attach a candy holder, a bell, an ornament, etc.; or, one may desire to attach a figurine, etc.; or, one may wish to attach exterior lights. These are merely examples as one ordinarily skilled in the art will recognize the countless peripheral modules or objects that may be attached to warming apparatus  100 . 
     In yet another exemplary embodiment, the present invention further contemplates the attachment or coupling of a heat condenser to warming apparatus  100  using attachment means  170 . The heat condenser is designed to focus heat from heating surface  110  to an object proximate heating surface  110 . The heat condenser can be utilized, for example, where a the surface area of the bottom of a candle is much smaller than the surface area of contacting surface  112 . The heat condenser focuses the heat emanating from the larger contacting surface  112  to the candle. 
     FIG. 9 illustrates one embodiment of warming apparatus  100  in which lighting source  250  is located external to heating surface so as to illuminate a transparent or translucent object from the side. One or more lighting sources  250  may be employed to provide various ambient lighting effects. 
     The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit of essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only al illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims, rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.