Illinois Patent of the Month – April 2024
Founded in 1996, Ulta-Lit Tree Company has grown to be the first source of affordable pre-lit artificial Christmas trees. The company has recently been granted a patent for their flameless LED candle technology. The new design uses a fan-driven scent diffuser to bring ambiance to any setup.
Traditionally, flameless candles have utilized light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to mimic the flickering effect of a real flame. Ulta-Lit Tree Company has taken this concept further by integrating a fan-driven scent diffuser into the design, creating a truly immersive sensory experience.
At the heart of this invention is a body portion housing a light-emitting device, designed to emit a warm, flickering glow through a translucent exterior. Beneath the body lies a base portion containing an electronics module, including a printed circuit board (PCB), a switch, and a power source. This PCB controls the operation of both the light-emitting device and the integrated fan.
The fan, positioned within the base portion, is oriented to force air in a downward direction, away from the body of the candle. Below the fan sits a pad designed to hold fragrances or scents, ensuring that the forced air carries the scent throughout the surrounding environment.
One of the key features of this invention is its versatility in operation. The switch allows users to select from multiple modes, including one where both the light-emitting device and the fan are active, another where only one of the two is active, and an off mode where neither is powered.
To enhance the visual appeal of the candle, Ulta-Lit Tree Company has incorporated a flexible post within the base portion. As the fan rotates, the unbalanced design of the post causes it to sway from side to side, creating a dynamic lighting effect through the translucent exterior of the candle.
The PCB is programmed to adjust the intensity or brightness of the light emitted by the device, creating a realistic flickering effect. This, combined with the integration of a wick element extending from the top of the body portion, further enhances the illusion of a traditional wax candle.
The power source, a rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery, ensures long-lasting operation, with the option for easy recharging via a power charging interface.
The Ulta-Lit Tree Company’s flameless electric candle with a fan-driven scent diffuser represents a groundbreaking advancement in lighting technology. By combining the visual appeal of a traditional candle with the added dimension of scent, this invention offers consumers a truly immersive and customizable experience.
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