Patent Document

FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0001]    The present invention generally relates to an electric fragrance diffuser and in particular to a new and useful electric fragrance diffuser comprising a fan and a cowling structure for effectively releasing fragrance into the air. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    Air diffusers, also known as air fresheners, have existed for some time. Generally, an air freshener emits an aroma into a room or enclosed area. The aroma may create a mood, invoke a psychological response and/or mask unpleasant odors. In some instances, aromas are used for therapeutic purposes. For example, aromatherapy is a form of alternative medicine that employs the aromas of volatile essential oils for the purpose of affecting a person&#39;s mood or health, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Essential oils are concentrated aromatic oils obtained from plants, flowers, and herbs. Different oils have different therapeutic effects when the aromas are inhaled. The most common way of using essential oils in aromatherapy is by dispersing the aroma via various diffusing systems. As stated above, such systems may also be used to mask unpleasant odors. 
         [0003]    Previous methods of diffusing essential oils used candle diffusers. Candle diffusers typically include a candleholder in the lower part of the diffuser and a reservoir above the candle to contain the oil. A candle, typically a tea-light, is placed in the candleholder to heat the oil above, causing the oil to evaporate into the air. However, candle diffusers are dangerous to use because of the risk of fire, and therefore should not be left unattended. 
         [0004]    Electric diffusers that are inexpensive to manufacture and which diffuse fragrances into the air without any risk of fire have become available. These electric diffusers receive power from either a household electrical outlet, or a battery. They generally comprise a receptacle for containing the fragrance oil and an electric heater that heats the oil causing it to evaporate into the air. These diffusers are capable of dispersing fragrance continuously into the air, while providing the benefit of remaining unattended, without the risk of starting a fire. 
         [0005]    A common problem with heat-activated diffusers (i.e., candle diffusers, electric diffusers, etc.) is that the smell of the produced fragrance is altered as essential oils are burned when heated. Burned oils may incur health hazards, since some burned components in the essential oils may be toxic. The burning of the oils may also alter the beneficial effects of the oils. Thus, cold air diffusers are generally preferred. 
         [0006]    A nebulizer is one form of a cold air diffuser. It consists of a base containing a motor, whereby the base is constructed from blown-glass. The nebulizer breaks the essential oil into separate molecules before dispersing them into the air. Although this method is said to have high therapeutic value, nebulizers are expensive and are difficult to maintain. The blown-glass piece is easily breakable and expensive to replace. In addition, some nebulizers are incompatible with oils that have heavy particle sizes. 
         [0007]    An alternative method of dispersing fragrance oils without heat is by using fan-based electric diffusers. Typically, these systems comprise a housing, an air inlet and an air outlet, a battery-operated fan, and a container having liquid therein. In operation, the fan forces air past a fragrance contained within the diffuser, thereby creating airflow between the air inlet and the air outlet. The airflow causes the evaporated liquid in the container to travel through the diffuser, whereby the fragrance is finally emitted into the air from the diffuser via the air outlet. The liquid is contained in any suitable container. One known container includes a bottle with a wick. In such a design, the partially submerged portion of the wick absorbs the liquid, some of which is drawn up by capillary or wicking action to the exposed, non-submerged portion of the wick where the liquid evaporates into the surrounding air. Another known container includes a cartridge containing permeable material. The liquid contained in such cartridge is impregnated in the permeable material and drawn up by capillary action to its surface where the liquid evaporates into the air. 
         [0008]    A known disadvantage of the fan-based systems is that they are incapable of dispersing high concentrations of the fragrance into the central area of a room. One effort to fix this problem was to include a louver structure, disposed upstream of the fan. The louver structure is generally angled upwardly and away from the fan for directing the airstream created by the fan upwardly and away from the upper portion of the fragrance container. Although this structure assists in directing the airflow of the fragrance, it does not affect the force of the airflow. 
         [0009]    In addition, the aforementioned systems use containers that are prone to spillovers. Known air freshener systems generally contain a breakable fragrance bottle or cartridge that is exposed to the user at all times. Breakable fragrance bottles exposed to the user are prone to falling and subsequently shattering. Similarly, the cartridges may be disengaged, whereby the liquid may spill outside the air freshener. The liquid fragrance may drip on the floor or furniture and create a harmful, dangerous and/or unsanitary environment. In addition, these fragrance systems implement special containers that are made to fit the fragrance system and are only available through one supplier. As such, only a limited variety of fragrances is available, and if the supplier discontinues the item, the user is left with an unusable device. 
         [0010]    In light of the shortcomings described above concerning fan-based fragrance diffusers, there is a clear need for a more efficient method of directing the airflow within the diffuser in order to maximize the efficiency of the diffuser as well as maximize fragrance dispersion. There is also a clear need for a fragrance diffuser that allows a user to utilize any essential oil via an absorption pad or fragrance medium system. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0011]    It is an object of the present invention to provide an electric fragrance diffuser that is cost efficient. 
         [0012]    In addition, it is an object of the present invention to provide an electric fragrance diffuser having an aesthetically pleasing design. 
         [0013]    It is also an object of the present invention to provide an electric fragrance diffuser that releases aroma without the use of heat or a flame. 
         [0014]    It is also an object of the present invention to provide an electric fragrance diffuser that utilizes a fan to diffuse fragrance into the air. 
         [0015]    It is still another object of the present invention to provide a cowling that creates an airflow updraft suction effect, which directs and maximizes airflow through the fragrance medium in order to more efficiently release aroma. 
         [0016]    It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a fragrance diffuser that is not limited to certain fragrance containers or specific scents. 
         [0017]    It is also an object of the present invention to energize a fan in order to continuously release a high concentration of a fragrance into the air. 
         [0018]    It is also an object of the present invention to utilize a drawer and a fragrance medium to prevent any liquid fragrance from escaping the housing. 
         [0019]    It is yet another object of the present invention to store additional unused fragrance mediums within the housing of the fragrance diffuser. 
         [0020]    It is also object of the present invention to provide a fragrance diffuser that allows a user to easily change or replace a fragrance medium. 
         [0021]    The present invention preferably includes a housing comprising air outlet apertures or vents, air inlet apertures or vents, and a chamber for holding a fragrance medium. The chamber is preferably removable from the housing to allow for ease of replacing the fragrance medium. The apparatus further comprises a fan for creating an upstream airflow and facilitating the emission of the fragrance from the fragrance medium, the airflow entering the inlet vents and exiting the outlet vents. The housing further contains a cowling structure that increases airflow and directs airflow in an upward direction. Thereby, the cowling structure directs and accelerates the emission of a fragrance from the fragrance medium. 
         [0022]    The chamber for holding the fragrance medium optimally contains at least one aperture for facilitating the release of fragrance from the fragrance medium and a tab for coupling the chamber to the apparatus. The fragrance medium is preferably made from a permeable material capable of absorbing fragrance, such as fragrance oil. However, fragrance medium may also consist of a fragrance absorption pad, a saturated felt pad, a scented solid, a membrane gel tray, potpourri, or ceramic scented beads. 
         [0023]    The apparatus also includes a storage compartment removably attached to the housing. The storage compartment of the present invention selectively couples to the housing and preferably contains at least one unused fragrance medium. 
         [0024]    Additionally, the apparatus comprises an electrical circuit receiving current from a power source to energize the fan, wherein the power source is preferably a battery. The apparatus further comprises a cavity for receiving the battery. The apparatus further comprises a switch to activate the fan and a light source to indicate to the user that the apparatus is active. 
         [0025]    Other objects, features, and characteristics of the present invention, as well as the methods of operation and functions of the related elements of the structure, and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings, all of which form a part of this specification. 
     
    
     
       SUMMARY OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0026]    A further understanding of the present invention can be obtained by reference to a preferred embodiment, along with some alternative embodiments, set forth in the illustrations of the accompanying drawings. Although the illustrated embodiments are merely exemplary of systems for carrying out the present invention, the organization and method of operation of the invention in general, together with further objectives and advantages thereof, may be more easily understood by reference to the drawings and the following description. The drawings are not intended to limit the scope of this invention, which is set forth with particularity in the claims as appended or as subsequently amended, but merely to clarify and exemplify the invention. 
           [0027]    For a more complete understanding of the present invention, reference is now made to the following drawings. 
           [0028]      FIG. 1  illustrates a front perspective view of an electric fragrance diffuser in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0029]      FIG. 2  illustrates an exploded view of the electric fragrance diffuser shown in  FIG. 1  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0030]      FIG. 3  illustrates a top perspective view of the middle section of the electric fragrance diffuser shown in  FIG. 1  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0031]      FIG. 4  illustrates a bottom plan view of the middle section of the electric fragrance diffuser shown in  FIG. 1  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0032]      FIG. 5  illustrates a top perspective view of the drawer of the electric fragrance diffuser shown in  FIG. 1  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0033]      FIG. 6  illustrates a bottom perspective view of the bottom section of the electric fragrance diffuser shown in  FIG. 1  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0034]      FIG. 7  illustrates a top perspective view of the storage compartment shown in  FIG. 1  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0035]      FIG. 8  illustrates a cross-sectional view of the electric fragrance diffuser shown in  FIG. 1  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0036]    A detailed illustrative embodiment of the present invention is disclosed herein. However, techniques, systems and operating structures in accordance with the present invention may be embodied in a wide variety of forms and modes, some of which may be quite different from those in the disclosed embodiment. Consequently, the specific functional details disclosed herein are merely representative, yet in that regard, they are deemed to afford the best embodiment for purposes of disclosure and to provide a basis for the claims herein which define the scope of the present invention. 
         [0037]    Moreover, well known methods and procedures for both carrying out the objectives of the present invention and illustrating the preferred embodiment are incorporated herein but have not been described in detail as not to unnecessarily obscure novel aspects of the present invention. 
         [0038]    Referring to  FIGS. 1-2 , the electric fragrance diffuser of the present invention is generally designated  100 , and comprises a multi-part hollow housing  101 . Preferably, housing  101  comprises a top section  102 , a middle section or center band  108 , a bottom section  112 , and a storage compartment  118 . Electric fragrance diffuser  100 , housing  101 , top section  102 , middle section  108 , bottom section  112 , and storage compartment  118  are preferably constructed from any sturdy plastic as commonly known in the art. Preferably, top section  102 , middle section  108 , bottom section  112 , and storage compartment  118  are each formed from injection molded plastic such that each comprise a single molded piece. However, each component may be made of any appropriate material without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Moreover, as shown in  FIG. 1 , each of these components are preferably coupled together to form a continuous, single piece design, for example an egg shape design. While a particular shape and appearance of electric fragrance diffuser  100  and its components have been illustrated in  FIGS. 1-2 , it should be appreciated that any shape or design may be implemented without limiting the scope of the present invention. 
         [0039]    As shown in  FIGS. 1-2 , top section  102  is semi-spherically shaped and preferably contains a plurality of apertures or outlet vents  104 . Outlet vents  104  are preferably provided on the upper portion of top section  102 . Outlet vents  104  primarily allow for the release of an aroma or fragrance from diffuser  100 . Additionally, outlet vents  104  are substantially circular in shape. However, outlet vents  104  may be any appropriate shape or size and may be in any appropriate location. Furthermore, any appropriate number of outlet vents  104  may be implemented in the design without limiting the scope of the present invention. Top section  102  also contains a plurality of apertures or air inlet vents  106 , which are substantially circular in shape and are disposed right above the lower edge of top section  102 . Specifically, air inlet vents  106  encircle the perimeter of the top section  102  along it lower edge. Air inlet vents  106  preferably allow air to be pulled into diffuser  100 , which assists in increasing the airflow velocity and directing the airflow within fragrance diffuser  100 . Accordingly, the air that enters diffuser  100  via air inlet vents  106  assists in facilitating the release of an aroma from diffuser  100 . This process will be described in further detail below. Air inlet vents  106  may be any appropriate shape or size, and may be in any appropriate location. Additionally, any appropriate number of air inlet vents  106  may be implemented in the design without limiting the scope of the present invention. 
         [0040]    As shown in  FIG. 2 , top section  102  further comprises a plurality of coupling members  204  protruding in a downward direction from the bottom edge of top section  102 . Each coupling member  204  is preferably molded to the internal surface of top section  102 , whereby each coupling member  204  extends from internal surface of top section  102 , thus forming one molded piece of plastic. It should be appreciated that coupling members  204  may be attached to top section  102  by any appropriate means commonly known in the art without limiting the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, each coupling member  204  preferably comprises a flange  206  to engage and snap-fit into each respective aperture or sockets  308  ( FIG. 4 ) disposed within middle section  108  in order to couple top section  102  to middle section  108 . 
         [0041]    As shown in  FIGS. 2-4 , middle section  108  is cylindrical in shape and preferably contains a drawer  110 , fan  302  and a cowling  322 . Moreover, as shown in  FIGS. 1-2 , the upper portion of middle section  108  is preferably coupled to the bottom portion of top section  102 . Specifically, middle section  108  preferably comprises an external ring  307 . External ring  307  preferably contains a plurality of sockets  308  to be used to couple top section  102  to middle section  108 . During the coupling of middle section  108  to top section  102 , top section  102  is placed over middle section  108  and each coupling member  204  is aligned with each respective socket  308 . Once each coupling member  204  is aligned with its respective socket  308 , each coupling member  204  engages and slides through each respective socket  308  until each flange  206  securely latches to the underside of external ring  307 , thus securely coupling top section  102  to middle section  108 . Accordingly, when top section  102  is coupled to middle section  108 , fan  302  and cowling  322  are disposed within top section  102  of diffuser  100 . 
         [0042]    Referencing  FIG. 2 , fan  302  is preferably a standard fan commonly used in the art, whereby fan  302  preferably comprises a hub  319 , a plurality of fan blades  304  and a motor  317  disposed thereunder. Hub  319  is circular in shape, wherein fan blades  304  are circumferentially disposed around thereof. The proximate end of each fan blade  304  is preferably molded to hub  319 , whereby the distal end of each fan blade extends outwardly from hub  319 . In order to facilitate the rapid rotation of fan blades  304 , hub  319  is preferably placed on top of motor  317  where hub  319  is rotatably coupled to a center axel (not shown) of motor  317  as commonly known in the art. Fan  302  and fan blades  304  are preferably constructed from a single piece molded plastic. However, either component may be constructed from any appropriate material without limiting the scope of the present invention. 
         [0043]    Referencing  FIG. 3 , middle section  108  preferably comprises an internal ring  312 , which is preferably coupled to the internal surface thereof. A fan support  306 , which contains a fan housing  309 , is preferably coupled to internal ring  312 . Preferably, fan housing  309  comprises cavity  305  and a plurality flanges  313  in order to receive and retain fan motor  317  so as to securely maintain fan  302  within housing  101 . The plurality of flanges  313  are preferably equidistantly spaced apart from each other along the top edge of fan housing  309  and are coupled to fan housing  309  through the process of molding plastic components together as commonly known in the art. Preferably, motor  317  slides into cavity  305  until each flange  313  engages the top surface of motor  317  located just within the underside of hub  319 , wherein hub  319  is positioned there above. Once each flange  313  has engaged the top surface of motor  317 , motor  317  becomes securely retained within cavity  305 . 
         [0044]    As further shown in  FIGS. 2-3 , middle section  108  comprises cowling  322 . Cowling  322  is preferably constructed from plastic and is coupled on its lower edge to external ring  307  of middle section  108 . Moreover, cowling  322  is preferably coupled to external ring  307  through a method of molding plastic as commonly known in the art. As shown in  FIG. 8 , cowling  322  is preferably completely encloses fan  302 , whereby cowling  322  is located in close proximity to the tips of fan blades  304 . In addition, fan blades  304  are substantially enclosed by cowling  322 , but can extend slightly above the top edge of cowling  322 . This maximizes fan&#39;s  302  efficiency as cowling  322  increases the velocity of the airflow. As is further shown in  FIG. 8 , cowling  322  is preferably located in close proximity with the inner side wall of upper section  102  so that external ring  307  peripherally extends from cowling  322  towards the inner wall of top section  102 . Thereby, cowling  322  and external ring  307  substantially enclose the air inlet vents  106  for preventing downward airflow, but leaving an escape space  801  thereabove. The functionality of cowling  322  will be described below in further detail. 
         [0045]    With further reference to  FIGS. 2-5 , middle section  108  further comprises an opening  315  and a cavity  324 . Preferably, opening  315  is large enough to slidably receive drawer  110 . Once drawer  110  enters opening  315 , cavity  324  preferably receives and retains drawer  110 . Specifically, middle section  108  preferably comprises a cavity  314  disposed within internal ring  312 . Cavity  314  houses coupling member  316 . Coupling member  316  comprises at least two prongs  318  and a spring  320 . As shown in  FIG. 5 , drawer  110  comprises a tab  504 . Preferably coupling member  316  is used to receive a tab  504  attached to drawer  110  in order to couple drawer  110  to diffuser  100 . Once a user slides drawer  110  into cavity  324 , the user may then push front surface  508  of drawer  110  so that tab  504  fits within prongs  318  of coupling member  316 . The user can continue to push front surface  508  so that tab  504  activates the spring-loaded mechanism of coupling member  316 , whereby tab  504  becomes locked into place and drawer  110  subsequently remains disposed within cavity  324  of middle section  108 . To release tab  504  from coupling member  316 , the user can push front surface  508  thereby releasing the spring-loaded mechanism within coupling member  316 . Once tab  504  is released from coupling member  316 , the drawer is pushed outward by the spring-loaded mechanism and the user may remove drawer  110  from cavity  324 . While a specific method and mechanism is described for selectively coupling and disposing drawer  110  within diffuser  100 , it should be appreciated that any method and mechanism commonly known in the art may be use to couple and dispose drawer  110  within diffuser  100  without limiting the scope of the present invention. 
         [0046]    As further shown in  FIG. 5 , drawer  110  comprises a plurality of apertures  502  and a cavity  506 . As previously described, drawer  110  is generally disposed within cavity  324 . In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a user places a fragrance medium  510  in cavity  506 . Fragrance medium  510  is preferably made from a permeable material capable of absorbing fragrance, such as fragrance oil. Once drawer  110  is disposed within middle section  108 , apertures  502  allow air to enter the bottom of cavity  506  to facilitate the release of a fragrance into the air. Fragrance medium  510  may also consist of a fragrance absorption pad, a saturated felt pad, a solid scented piece, a membrane gel tray, potpourri, ceramic scented beads, or any appropriate medium commonly known in the art. Fragrance medium  510  may be made of cotton, polyester, plastic or any appropriate material without departing from the spirit of the present invention. The fragrance medium may be impregnated with any fragrance oil commonly available on the market for use with fragrance oil burners or diffusers. The fragrance, oils may be purchased from any supplier and are available in a wide variety of fragrances. Moreover, since this configuration allows the fragrance oil to be stored hidden within the diffuser, the electric fragrance diffuser of the present invention eliminates spills and potentially hazardous conditions created by other fragrance diffusers. 
         [0047]    Referencing  FIG. 4 , internal ring  312  of middle section  108  preferably comprises a plurality of coupling members  311  containing cavities  310 . Coupling members  311  are used to be engaged with coupling members  402  of bottom section  112  ( FIG. 2 ) in order to couple middle section  108  to bottom section  112 . As shown in  FIGS. 1-2 , coupling members  402  of bottom section  112  are generally cylindrical in shape and protrude from the internal bottom surface of bottom section  112 . Preferably, each coupling member  402  contains a hole  405 , which serves to receive and hold a screw. Preferably, middle section  108  is coupled to bottom section  112  by first aligning each coupling member  402  of bottom section  112  with each respective coupling member  311  of middle section  108 . Once aligned, each coupling member  402  of bottom section  112  enters and engages each cavity  310  of each coupling member  311  of middle section  108 . Each coupling member  402  continues to slide through each respective cavity  310  until it engages and rests against an internal flange. Once each coupling member  402  has been fully inserted into each respective cavity  310 , a screw is inserted into the top side of each cavity  310  and subsequently tightened into each aperture  405  of coupling member  402 , thereby securely coupling middle section  108  to bottom section  112 . While a specific method for coupling middle section  108  to bottom section  112  has been described above, any appropriate method may be implemented for doing the same without limiting the scope of the invention. 
         [0048]    As shown in  FIGS. 1-2 , bottom section  112  is cylindrical in shape, and tapers downwardly. Bottom section  112  preferably comprises a plurality of apertures or air inlet vents  114 , which are substantially circular in shape and are disposed right below the upper edge of bottom section  112 . Additionally, air inlet vents  114  allow air to be pulled into diffuser  100  and create airflow throughout fragrance diffuser  100 . Moreover, the air that enters air inlet vents  114  is pulled past a fragrance medium  510  resting within drawer  110  in order to draw the fragrance therefrom. Accordingly, the air that enters diffuser  100  via air inlet vents  114  assists in facilitating the release of an aroma from diffuser  100 . This process will be described in further detail below. Air inlet vents  114  may be any appropriate shape or size, and may be in any appropriate location. Furthermore, any appropriate number of air inlet vents  114  may be implemented in the design without limiting the scope of the present invention. 
         [0049]    Bottom section  112  also preferably contains an actuation switch  116 . Preferably, actuation switch  116  is a push button design, whereby electric diffuser  100  is activated when a user depresses switch  116 . It should be appreciated that switch  116  may be any type of switch commonly known in the art (i.e., an on/off push button switch, an on/off sliding switch, a light sensing switch, etc.) without limiting the scope of the present invention. Additionally, actuation switch  116  may include a light source  117 , whereby light source  117  may be any type of light source commonly known in the art, such as a light emitting diode. Accordingly, once a user depresses switch  116 , light source  117  becomes active and remains active for as long as switch  116  is closed. Thus, light source  117  preferably serves to notify the user that diffuser  100  is currently active. It should be appreciated that light source  117  may be located anywhere within diffuser  100  without departing from the spirit of the present invention. It should also be appreciated that light source  117  may provide additional functions, for example, it may function as a battery life indicator. 
         [0050]    Referring now to  FIG. 6 , illustrated is an underside view of bottom section  112 , which comprises an aperture  408  for receiving the actuation switch  116  ( FIG. 1 ) and an external surface  610  with battery cavity  404 . In the current design of diffuser  100 , battery cavity  404  contains slots  607  used to store two size AA batteries. It should be appreciated that any size slot(s) can be provided to store any size or type of battery without limiting the scope of the present invention. The battery is preferably used to energize an electric circuit (not shown), whereby the electric circuit is coupled to fan  302 , switch  116 , and light source  117 . However, other power sources can be also be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, bottom section  112  may include an additional aperture (not shown) for receiving a power connector that connects the circuit to a power cord that plugs into an electrical outlet or a USB cord that plugs into a computer. In any configuration, once switch  116  is actuated the circuit closes, thus transferring electricity from the power source (e.g., the battery) to both fan  302  and light source  117  thereby activating diffuser  100 . While not shown, the electric circuit may be coupled to the bottom surface  409  ( FIG. 2 ) of bottom section  112 . However, the electric circuit may be placed in any appropriate location without limiting the scope of the present invention. 
         [0051]    As shown in  FIG. 6 , the underside of bottom section  112  further comprises retaining apertures  606 . Retaining apertures  606  are constructed to be cutouts in external surface  610  of bottom section  112 . Preferably, the retaining apertures  606  each contain two distinct sections varying in width. Specifically, each retaining aperture  606  preferably contains a wide section  612  and a narrow section  614 , whereby the sections are designed to facilitate the coupling and removal of storage compartment  118  to and from bottom section  112  ( FIG. 2 ). 
         [0052]    As shown in  FIG. 7 , storage compartment  118  is cylindrical in shape and comprises a plurality of retaining members  701  and at least two coupling members  702 . Coupling members  702  serve to couple storage compartment  118  to bottom section  112  ( FIG. 6 ). Preferably, each coupling member contains a flange  703 . Referring to  FIGS. 6-7 , in order to couple storage compartment  118  to bottom section  112 , a user may first align each coupling member  702  with wide section  612  of each respective retaining aperture  606 . The user may then slide each coupling member  702  through wide section  612  of each respective retaining aperture  606 . Once each coupling member  702  has traveled completely through its respective retaining aperture  606 , the user can then rotate storage compartment  118  in a clockwise direction, thereby sliding each coupling member  702  into narrow section  614  of each respective retaining aperture  606 . Once each coupling member  702  enters narrow section  614 , flange  703  engages the interior surface (not shown) of bottom section  112 , thereby securely coupling storage compartment  118  to bottom section  112 . 
         [0053]    To release storage compartment  118  from bottom section  112 , a user can rotate storage compartment  118  in a counter clockwise direction until each coupling member  702  enters the wide section  612  of each respective retaining aperture  606 , whereby the user then is able to pull storage compartment  118  away from bottom section  112 . The method for coupling and releasing storage compartment  118  to and from bottom section  112  as described above is commonly known in the art and any method may be used without departing from the spirit of the present invention. 
         [0054]    As shown in  FIG. 7 , retaining members  701  extend from the upper surface of storage compartment  118  and are spaced far enough apart so as to create a large enough cavity  706  to hold unused or additional fragrance mediums  510 . Retaining flanges  704  are coupled to the top portion of retaining members  701 . As shown in  FIG. 7 , a retaining flanges  704  are not provided on each retaining member  701 . However, it should be appreciated that each retaining member  701  may contain a retaining flange  704  without limiting the scope of the present invention. Once a fragrance membrane  510  has been placed into cavity  706 , retaining flanges  704  serve to securely maintain fragrance membrane  510  within cavity  706 . 
         [0055]    It should be appreciated that any number of retaining structures  701 , coupling members  702 , and retaining flanges  704  may be implemented in the design of diffuser  100  without limiting the scope of the present invention. 
         [0056]    Further referring to  FIG. 7 , storage compartment  118  comprises at least two feet  120  located on the bottom surface of storage compartment  118 . Preferably, storage compartment  118  contains four feet  120 . Preferably, each foot  120  contains a disk located on its tip in order to provide friction between diffuser  100  and a surface on which it is placed so that diffuser  100  may securely rest on that surface. The friction created between the disk and the surface diffuser  100  is resting on assists in stabilizing diffuser  100  and allows diffuser  100  to stand upright on the surface without slipping or falling over. The disk may be any appropriate material commonly known in the art without limiting the scope of the present invention, for example fabric, felt, plastic, composite material, etc. Moreover, it should be appreciated that any number of feet  120  may be implemented in the design without limiting the scope of the present invention. 
         [0057]    While each section of housing  101  has been outlined in detail above, it should be appreciated that the sections that form housing  101  may be coupled together in any order and by any appropriate means without limiting the scope of the present invention. In addition, while the storage compartment  118  and drawer  110  is readily removable by the user, preferably, top section  102 , middle section  108 , and bottom section  112  are securely engages to each other and are not readily removable. This will ensure that the user does not temper with the inner pieces of the diffuser  100 , such as the fan and the circuit. 
         [0058]    Referencing  FIGS. 1-7 , in operation, a user may first remove storage compartment  118  from bottom section  112 . Once storage compartment  118  is removed, the user may place batteries (not shown) into battery cavity  404  and remove a fragrance medium from storage compartment  118 . The user may then reattach storage compartment  118  to bottom section  112 . The user may subsequently remove drawer  110  from cavity  324  by gently pushing front surface  508 , thereby releasing drawer  108  from coupling member  316 . The user may then pull drawer  110  out far enough from diffuser  100  so that the user is able to place fragrance medium  510  within cavity  506  of drawer  110 . Once fragrance medium  510  is placed within cavity  506 , the user may provide a fragrance to the fragrance medium  510  by preferably distributing drops of fragrance oil evenly onto the fragrance medium  510 . Moreover, it should be appreciated that any type of fragrance oil commonly used in the art may be implemented with the present invention without limiting its scope. Once the fragrance oil has been applied to the fragrance medium  510 , the user may return drawer  110  to its original position within diffuser  100  by placing it into opening  315  and gently pushing it inside cavity  324  until it is securely locked into position. 
         [0059]    Once diffuser  100  has been properly prepared for activation as described above, the user may then place diffuser  100  on a stable surface. To actuate diffuser  100 , the user may preferably press switch  116 . Upon pressing switch  116 , light source  117  becomes active and fragrance diffuser  100  begins to release an aroma into the air. During operation, fragrance diffuser  100  is energized by receiving electricity from the batteries (not shown). Electrical power is drawn from the batteries (not shown) to fan  302  and light source  117 . The batteries are preferably connected to fan  302  and light source  117  by means of electrical conducting wire (not shown) and basic electrical components (not shown) commonly used in the art. 
         [0060]    Referring now to  FIG. 8 , once fan  302  is energized fan blades  304  rotate at a high rate of speed, whereby fan  302  and cowling  322 , in combination, draw air into diffuser  100  via air inlet vents  106  and  114 . Specifically, air current A enters air inlet vents  114  and is pulled up through apertures  502  in drawer  110  due to the updraft created by fan  302  and cowling  322 . Specifically, the pitch of the fan blades  304  and the rotation of the fan  302  pulls the air upwards and the encasing of the fan within cowling  322  increases the velocity of the airflow, thus maximizing the efficiency of the fan  302 . Air current A travels through and captures the fragrance from fragrance medium  510  disposed within drawer  110 . Preferably, cowling  322  creates an updraft vacuum or suction effect to pull fragrance volatiles from fragrance medium  510 , whereby the fragrance is subsequently released into the air. This forces air current B to be drawn into diffuser  100  via air inlet vents  106  and through space  801  between cowling  322  and the side wall of upper section  102 . As shown in  FIG. 8 , air current B is drawn upwards into the upper portion of top section  102 , wherein air current C subsequently results. Preferably, air current C facilitates the release of fragrance from diffuser  100  into the air by increasing airflow velocity and directing the airflow upward towards outlet vents  104 . As fan blades  304  rapidly rotate, air current D is generated from a combination of the air current created by fan  302 , air current A, air current B, and air current C, wherein air current D is directed upward towards outlet vents  104 . Preferably, air current D and air current C flow through outlet vents  104 , subsequently releasing the fragrance captured in air current A from diffuser  100 . Accordingly, air current D and air current C in combination preferably facilitate the release of the fragrance from diffuser  100 . 
         [0061]    The method of creating this updraft suction effect includes the combination of forced airflow from fan  302 , which is encased in cowling  322  to direct and maximize airflow and a balanced level of air inlet venting to allow effective, though not excessively open airflow. Moreover, cowling  322  captures the air currents generated by fan  302  and focuses this airflow in a chosen direction (i.e., in an upward direction), thereby generating air force, focused airflow and suction in order to create a focused airflow system. The placement of cowling  322  (i.e., its close proximity to fan  302 ) assists in maximizing its efficiency in generating and directing airflow within diffuser  100 . Cowling  322  preferably functions to control the air currents generated by the rotating fan and directs the air currents C and D upward. By keeping cowling  322  in close proximity to the tips of fan blades  304 , the air currents generated are prevented from dissipating and are directed upward based on the pitch of fan blades  304 . Through the placement of fan  302  and the utilization of cowling  322  along with the placement of air inlet vents  106  and  114 , diffuser  100  acts as a suction airflow system that pulls air past a fragrance medium and releases that fragrance into the air. 
         [0062]    While fan blade pitch alone can create airflow, the use of cowling  322  in the present invention collects the air to focus and intensify the airflow. The combination of the focused airflow generated from cowling  322 , with the proper amount of air inlet venting, along with the placement of fragrance medium  510  within diffuser  100 , creates a suction effect within diffuser  100 . Furthermore, the created suction effect pulls fragrance volatiles from the fragrance medium and releases these volatiles into the air. In order to effectively direct and intensify the airflow within diffuser  100  the distance between cowling  322  and the tips of fan blades  304  should be minimal. However, it should be appreciated that the space between cowling  322  and the tips of fan blades  304  may be any appropriate distance without limiting the scope of the present invention. Preferably, the focused airflow system, which focuses airflow within diffuser  100  and creates a forced air suction effect as described above, is created through the use of cowling  322  in combination with the general air intake dynamics of the present invention. 
         [0063]    It should be appreciated, that while fragrance medium  510  is located below fan  302  and cowling  322 , a person of ordinary skill in the art can position fragrance medium  510  in other location with respect to fan  302  and cowling  322  as long as it is located within the updraft airflow. For example, fragrance medium  510  may be located above fan  302  and cowling  322 . 
         [0064]    Electric fragrance diffuser  100  is also cost efficient, since the fragrance medium only requires a few drops of oil or fragrance. Conversely, other diffusers consume a significant amount of oil or fragrance, which can become an expensive interest for, those who wish to be surrounded by aromas all the time. 
         [0065]    While the present invention has been described with reference to the preferred embodiment and alternative embodiments, which have been set forth in considerable detail for the purposes of making a complete disclosure of the invention, such embodiments are merely exemplary and are not intended to be limiting or represent an exhaustive enumeration of all aspects of the invention. The scope of the invention, therefore, shall be defined solely by the following claims. Further, it will be apparent to those of skill in the art that numerous changes may be made in such details without departing from the spirit and the principles of the invention. It should be appreciated that the present invention is capable of being embodied in other forms without departing from its essential characteristics.

Technology Category: 1