SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SNUFFING A LIVE EMBER

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims benefit from currently pending U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/625,071 titled “System and Method for Snuffing a Live Ember” and having a filing date of Jan. 25, 2024, all of which is incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a snuffer for extinguishing live embers, specifically a snuffer that includes a clip and a tube. The invention also pertains to an ashtray incorporating such a snuffer, and a method of manufacturing the snuffer.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Smoking remains a common practice worldwide, with many individuals using cigarettes, cigars, and other smoking materials. A persistent challenge for smokers is the safe and effective extinguishing of smoking materials, particularly in portable or temporary smoking situations where traditional ashtrays may not be available or practical.

In the field of fire safety and smoking accessories, various devices have been developed to extinguish live embers, such as those found in cigarettes or cigars. One such device is a snuffer into which the burning end of a cigarette or cigar is inserted to deprive the ember of oxygen and put it out. In conventional ember snuffers, there is often a risk of the snuffer not being able to effectively put out the ember effectively leading to the ember damaging the materials the snuffer is made of. Conventional snuffers may also be easily lost or misplaced or may be difficult to find conveniently due to their small size. Additionally, the snuffers are often not designed to be easily attached or detached from a supporting structure, such as an ashtray, which can limit their usability and convenience. Extinguishing smoking materials often involve crushing or grinding the ember against a surface, which can be unsafe and potentially damage surfaces. Traditional ashtrays, while effective, are not always portable or convenient to carry. Additionally, existing portable solutions often lack durability, heat resistance, or may not effectively contain ashes and embers.

Some attempts have been made to create portable extinguishing devices, but these solutions have had various drawbacks. Many are too bulky to carry conveniently, while others lack the necessary heat resistance or durability for repeated use. Furthermore, existing devices often cannot be easily cleaned or maintained, leading to buildup of residue and decreased functionality over time.

There is also a need for extinguishing devices that can be integrated with or attached to existing ashtrays to enhance their functionality. Current solutions often lack adaptability and may not be compatible with various ashtray designs and sizes. Therefore, there remains a need for an improved smoking material extinguishing device that is portable, durable, heat-resistant, and easy to maintain, while also being adaptable for use with existing smoking accessories.

So as to reduce the complexity and length of the Detailed Specification, and to fully establish the state of the art in certain areas of technology, Applicant(s) herein expressly incorporate(s) by reference all of the following materials identified in each numbered paragraph below. The incorporated materials are not necessarily “prior art” and Applicant(s) expressly reserve(s) the right to swear behind any of the incorporated materials.

• Patent Document 1: U.S. Pat. No. 5,842,579
• Patent Document 2: U.S. Pat. No. 6,234,155
• Patent Document 3: U.S. Pat. No. 7,441,626
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• Patent Document 8: U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013/0123456
• Patent Document 9: U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0123456
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• Patent Document 11: U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0123456
• Patent Document 12: U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017/0123456
• Patent Document 13: U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018/0123456
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Applicant(s) believe(s) that the material incorporated above is “non-essential” in accordance with 37 CFR 1.57, because it is referred to for purposes of indicating the background of the invention or illustrating the state of the art. However, if the Examiner believes that any of the above-incorporated material constitutes “essential material” within the meaning of 37 CFR 1.57 (c) (1)-(3), applicant(s) will amend the specification to expressly recite the essential material that is incorporated by reference as allowed by the applicable rules.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a snuffer device engineered for safely extinguishing live embers, and to an ashtray incorporating such a snuffer. More particularly, the invention is directed to a snuffer comprising a clip and a heat-resistant tube that work in conjunction to provide safe and effective ember extinguishment while offering versatile storage options and enhanced user safety features.

The snuffer incorporates a U-shaped clip with spring-biased sides that securely holds a specially designed tube. This spring-bias mechanism ensures reliable retention of the tube while enabling easy attachment and detachment when desired. The tube features a closed bottom, an open top, and is oriented at a specific angle (35° to) 45° relative to the clip to optimize both safety and effectiveness during use. This carefully engineered angular relationship maintains safe distances between the user's fingers and live embers during operation. The tube's dimensions, including a diameter of 6-12 mm and length of 1.5-4 cm, are precisely engineered to ensure proper ember containment while maintaining a compact form factor.

Key innovative features include a slide cutout in the clip that enables the tube to pivot for compact storage, representing a significant advancement in storage efficiency and portability. The device incorporates a detachable design that facilitates thorough cleaning and maintenance, with the option for a removable bottom to enable complete internal access. Construction materials are specifically selected to be dishwasher-safe, with the clip typically made from plastic for durability and ergonomic handling, and the tube from metal for heat resistance and longevity. In certain embodiments, the clip's face serves as the tube's bottom, creating an integrated design that enhances compactness and structural integrity while reducing component count.

The invention further encompasses an ashtray design incorporating this snuffer, where the snuffer can be detachably coupled to the ashtray's bowl. This integration provides a comprehensive solution for ash and ember management in a single unified device. Additionally, the invention includes a detailed method for manufacturing the snuffer, with particular emphasis on achieving and maintaining the critical angle of attachment between the tube and clip that has been determined to optimize both safety and functionality.

This innovative design provides a practical and comprehensive solution for safely extinguishing live embers while addressing important considerations such as storage efficiency, maintenance requirements, cleaning accessibility, and most importantly, user safety. The combination of precisely engineered components and thoughtfully integrated features results in a device that effectively serves its primary function while offering enhanced usability and convenience features that distinguish it from existing solutions in the field.

Aspects and applications of the invention presented here are described below in the drawings and detailed description of the invention. Unless specifically noted, it is intended that the words and phrases in the specification and the claims be given their plain, ordinary, and accustomed meaning to those of ordinary skill in the applicable arts. The inventors are fully aware that they can be their own lexicographers if desired. The inventors expressly elect, as their own lexicographers, to use only the plain and ordinary meaning of terms in the specification and claims unless they clearly state otherwise and then further, expressly set forth the “special” definition of that term and explain how it differs from the plain and ordinary meaning. Absent such clear statements of intent to apply a “special” definition, it is the inventors' intent and desire that the simple, plain and ordinary meaning to the terms be applied to the interpretation of the specification and claims. Aspects and applications of the invention presented here are described below in the drawings and detailed description of the invention.

The inventors are also aware of the normal precepts of English grammar. Thus, if a noun, term, or phrase is intended to be further characterized, specified, or narrowed in some way, then such noun, term, or phrase will expressly include additional adjectives, descriptive terms, or other modifiers in accordance with the normal precepts of English grammar. Absent the use of such adjectives, descriptive terms, or modifiers, it is the intent that such nouns, terms, or phrases be given their plain, and ordinary English meaning to those skilled in the applicable arts as set forth above.

Further, the inventors are fully informed of the standards and application of the special provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112 (f). Thus, the use of the words “function,” “means” or “step” in the Detailed Description or Description of the Drawings or claims is not intended to somehow indicate a desire to invoke the special provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112 (f), to define the invention. To the contrary, if the provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112 (f) are sought to be invoked to define the inventions, the claims will specifically and expressly state the exact phrases “means for” or “step for, and will also recite the word “function” (i.e., will state “means for performing the function of . . . ”), without also reciting in such phrases any structure, material or act in support of the function. Thus, even when the claims recite a “means for performing the function of . . . ” or “step for performing the function of . . . ,” if the claims also recite any structure, material or acts in support of that means or step, or that perform the recited function, then it is the clear intention of the inventors not to invoke the provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112 (f). Moreover, even if the provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112 (f) are invoked to define the claimed inventions, it is intended that the inventions not be limited only to the specific structure, material or acts that are described in the preferred embodiments, but in addition, include any and all structures, materials or acts that perform the claimed function as described in alternative embodiments or forms of the invention, or that are well known present or later-developed, equivalent structures, material or acts for performing the claimed function.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

A more complete understanding of the present invention may be derived by referring to the detailed description when considered in connection with the following illustrative figures. In the figures, like reference numbers refer to like elements or acts throughout the figures.

FIG. 1 depicts an overhead perspective view of a snuffer according to one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 depicts a side pers perspective view of the snuffer according to the embodiment FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 depicts an overhead perspective view of the snuffer according to FIG. 1 alongside an ashtray;

FIG. 4 depicts an overhead perspective view of the snuffer of FIG. 3 clipped to the ashtray; and

FIG. 5 depicts an overhead view of multiple different clips that may be used in connection with one or more embodiments of the invention.

Elements and acts in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and have not necessarily been rendered according to any particular sequence or embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the following description, and for the purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the various aspects of the invention. It will be understood, however, by those skilled in the relevant arts, that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, known structures and devices are shown or discussed more generally to avoid obscuring the invention. In many cases, a description of the operation is sufficient to enable one to implement the various forms of the invention, particularly when the operation is to be implemented in software. It should be noted that there are many different and alternative configurations, devices, and technologies to which the disclosed inventions may be applied. The full scope of the inventions is not limited to the examples that are described below.

Referring to FIG. 1-FIG. 5 a snuffer is shown generally at 10. In one application of the invention, the snuffer 10 is provided for extinguishing a live ember. The snuffer 10 comprises a clip 12 and a tube 14 coupled to the clip. The tube has a heat-resistant closed bottom 16, an open top 18, and at least one wall 20. The tube may be any heat-resistant material, such as glass, ceramic, metal or metal alloy, melamine, or stone. The tube 14 may have an internal diameter that is close to the diameter of the item the tube is intended to extinguish. For example, for a common cigarette having a diameter around 8 millimeters (mm), the tube 14 may have a diameter between 8 mm and 10 mm. For including slim and some larger cigarettes, the diameter may be between 6 mm and 12 mm. Cigar or blunt snuffers may have a diameter to match the cigar ring gauge of the blunt or cigar. For example, Petit Corona cigars have a ring gauge around 40-42 (about 16 to 17 mm), Robustos a ring gauge around 50 (about 20 mm), Toros a ring gauge around 52-54 (about 21 to 22 mm), Churchills, a ring gauge around 48-50 (about 19 to 20 mm), and Gordos a ring gauge around 60 or more (about 24 mm or larger). In alternative embodiments, the tube may feature a tapered design to accommodate different ember sizes within a single unit, or may incorporate multiple internal chambers for enhanced oxygen deprivation. The tube may also include ventilation holes with adjustable covers for controlled airflow management, or feature a telescoping design allowing for adjustable length to accommodate different item sizes.

The clip 12 may serve as a safety and functional component of the snuffer assembly 10, providing secure retention of the tube 14 while enabling safe extinguishing of live embers without exposing users to burn hazards or creating fire risks. The clip may have a U-shaped configuration having a first side member 22 and an opposing second side member 24. The clip can have an integral spring-bias mechanism, whereby the first side member 22 naturally exerts a continuous compressive force against the second side member 24. This spring-loaded interaction creates reliable clamping pressure that anchors the tube 14, preventing any unwanted movement, slippage, or separation during both storage and active use. In alternative embodiments, the clip may incorporate a magnetic attachment mechanism either in place of or in addition to the spring-bias mechanism, or may feature adjustable tension settings through a screw or cam mechanism for customizable grip strength. The clip may also include integrated rubber or silicone grip pads for enhanced friction and secure mounting. A locking mechanism may be incorporated to secure the tube in specific positions, particularly useful during storage or transport.

Referring especially to FIG. 5, The first side 22 of clip 12 incorporates a face 26 that features a slide cutout 28, which serves multiple functional purposes in the assembly. The slide cutout 28 can be specifically dimensioned and configured to accommodate pivotal movement of tube 14, enabling the tube to rotate and nest within the cutout's geometrical constraints. This pivotal interaction between the tube 14 and slide cutout 28 provides a transformative capability, allowing the snuffer assembly to transition between an extended operational configuration and a compact storage position. Alternative embodiments may incorporate a ball-joint or multi-axis pivot mechanism to support multiple mounting orientations and enhanced positioning flexibility. The pivotal mechanism may also include position-locking features or detents to secure the tube at specific angles during use.

The clip 12 can have a face 26 that can establish a coplanar relationship with the closed end of tube 14, such that when the tube is fully engaged with the clip, the tube's end surface achieves substantial flush alignment with the clip face 26. This precise dimensional relationship serves multiple functional purposes, including ensuring proper tube retention, maintaining consistent positioning, and achieving an aesthetically refined appearance.

The assembly may incorporate a pivotal coupling mechanism between the tube 14 and clip 12, enabling selective angular adjustment of the tube relative to the clip body. This pivotal functionality may be enhanced through various mounting options, including surface-mounted bases, vehicle cup holder adaptors, temporary adhesive mounting systems, suction cup attachments, rail mounting systems, or integrated table clamps. The mounting system may also incorporate quick-release mechanisms for rapid deployment or emergency situations.

In addition to its pivotal capabilities, the coupling mechanism between tube 14 and clip 12 can be selectively detachable, enabling complete separation of the components when desired. The bottom closure mechanisms may include various innovative features such as spring-loaded trap doors, sliding mechanisms for easy ash removal, integrated filter elements, or automated cleaning mechanisms. The bottom may also incorporate a cooling element or heat sink for enhanced safety, or feature a removable ash collection chamber for convenient maintenance.

The clip 12 can be fabricated from various durable materials selected to provide the necessary mechanical properties, including but not limited to appropriate strength, resilience, wear resistance, and environmental stability. Advanced material options may include composite materials with different thermal properties, antimicrobial coatings or materials, self-cleaning surface treatments, impact-resistant reinforcements, UV-resistant additives, and fire-retardant materials. Environmental considerations may include the use of biodegradable materials, recycled material construction, or sustainable manufacturing processes.

The tube 14 can incorporate various safety features including a heat-insulating outer sleeve or coating, temperature indicators or warning markers, emergency release mechanisms, non-slip gripping surfaces, and auto-sealing mechanisms when excessive heat is detected. The tube 14 may also feature graduated markings for depth reference or incorporate heat-reactive color-changing materials for visual safety indicators.

The materials selected for both the clip 12 and tube 14 are specifically chosen to withstand automated dishwashing processes, including exposure to elevated temperatures, chemical cleaning agents, and high-pressure water impingement typically encountered in dishwashing appliances. Maintenance features may include quick-release cleaning mechanisms, modular component replacement capabilities, self-diagnostic indicators, wear indicators, automated cleaning cycles, and replaceable protective liners.

The tube 14 is specifically engineered to project from clip 12 at a predetermined angle ranging between 35 degrees and 45 degrees relative to the clip body. The defined angular range enables users to effectively approach and engage live embers while maintaining appropriate distance between their fingers and the heat source, thereby maximizing both operational effectiveness and user safety.

The tube 14 has a diameter measuring between 6 millimeters and 12 millimeters. This specific dimensional range has been determined to provide optimal containment characteristics for typical ember sizes encountered during use. The selected diameter range ensures sufficient clearance for ember insertion while maintaining close proximity between the tube walls and the ember, thereby maximizing the oxygen-depleting effectiveness of the snuffing action. The relationship between the tube diameter and typical ember dimensions can allow for reliable extinguishing performance across a range of expected usage scenarios.

The tube 14 further incorporates an overall length dimension ranging between 1.5 centimeters and 4 centimeters. This length specification has been determined to provide adequate depth for complete ember containment while maintaining compact overall device proportions. The defined length range ensures sufficient volume for oxygen depletion while preventing excessive material usage or unwieldy device dimensions. The relationship between tube length, diameter, and projection angle has been optimized to achieve reliable ember extinguishing performance while maintaining practical size considerations for both operation and storage.

The clip 12 can have a face portion 26 that is specifically engineered to serve as an integral bottom 16 of tube 14 when the components are coupled together. This dual-function configuration establishes a unified structural relationship wherein the face 26 performs both its clip-related functions and simultaneously serves as the tube's bottom closure member. The integration of these components eliminates the need for a separate tube bottom element while ensuring secure mechanical engagement between the clip 12 and tube 14.

The unified face/bottom configuration creates a precisely defined dimensional relationship between the clip 12 and tube 14, preventing any unwanted protrusion of the tube beyond the clip's profile. This integrated design approach achieves multiple beneficial objectives, including minimizing the overall spatial envelope of the assembly, reducing the total number of components, and establishing a mechanically robust connection between the clip and tube. The elimination of a separate bottom component further enhances the aesthetic refinement of the device by maintaining clean lines and avoiding visible seams or joints in this critical area of the assembly.

The integration of the clip face 26 with the tube bottom 16 can address both functional requirements and manufacturing efficiency considerations while maintaining the essential performance characteristics of both components. The precise engineering of the face/bottom geometry ensures optimal performance in both its clip-related functions and its tube closure role, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness and reliability of the device.

The present invention also relates to an ashtray 30 comprising a bowl 32 having a side wall 34 and a snuffer 10 detachably coupled to the bowl 32. The snuffer has a tube 14 that extends at an angle between 35° and 45°. This design allows the user to easily and safely extinguish a live ember. The snuffer has a clip 12 configured to attach to the side wall 34 of the bowl 32. This design allows the snuffer 10 to be easily accessed and used, providing a user-friendly design. The present invention also relates to a method of manufacturing a snuffer. The method comprises the acts of providing a clip 12 and coupling a tube 14 to the clip 12 at an angle between 35° and 45°. This method allows for the efficient and cost-effective production of the snuffer, ensuring that the snuffer is affordable and accessible to all users.

In closing, it is to be understood that although aspects of the present specification are highlighted by referring to specific embodiments, one skilled in the art will readily appreciate that these disclosed embodiments are only illustrative of the principles of the subject matter disclosed herein. Therefore, it should be understood that the disclosed subject matter is in no way limited to a particular methodology, protocol, and/or reagent, etc., described herein. As such, various modifications or changes to or alternative configurations of the disclosed subject matter can be made in accordance with the teachings herein without departing from the spirit of the present specification. Lastly, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, which is defined solely by the claims. Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to those precisely as shown and described.

Certain embodiments are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the methods and devices described herein. Of course, variations on these described embodiments will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. Accordingly, this disclosure includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. The terms “including” and “such as” are not limiting and should be interpreted as “including, but not limited to,” and “such as, for example,” respectively. Moreover, any combination of the above-described embodiments in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the disclosure unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.