US20180312774A1

US20180312774A1 - Self-Igniting Assembly

Info

Publication number: US20180312774A1
Application number: US15/967,931
Authority: US
Inventors: Shawn Alexander Ream
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2017-05-01
Filing date: 2018-05-01
Publication date: 2018-11-01

Abstract

Embodiments are described for a self-igniting assembly having a main portion with a match-like component affixed thereto. A flammable member such as a wick or match-like member is in communication with the match-like component. A handle permits the user to grip the main portion and tug the main portion to impart friction and a chemical reaction between the match-like component to ignite the flammable member. This assembly may be provided with a number of ignitable device such as logs, fire starters, fireworks, or candles.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application 62/492,483 filed May 1, 2017 which is hereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD

The present invention relates to fire starting implements which may be used to ignite a multitude of devices.

BACKGROUND

Many devices and processes exist which require a fire starter, in one form or another, to serve as a primary ignitor. Some examples may include candles, fireworks, barbeque and campfire starters, and fire logs for home use. These devices are typically provided to the consumer without a means for igniting the product. In the current arts, the most common options are matches, lighters, and torches. While many of these items were commonplace in the past, the reduction in the prevalence of smoking has left many homes without the ever-present need for a lighter.
Butane lighters may perhaps be the most common source of ignition for users in the developed world. While effective, they rely on an adequate supply of butane as a fuel source and are therefore not a permanent ignition solution. Further, some users feel uncomfortable having a flammable chemical in their home near children. While matches are relatively safe in comparison, they can become inactivated in areas of high moisture and require some degree of finesse to light properly. The user must also be conscious of the match burning their finger while it is ignited.
With the aforementioned limitations, improvements in the arts related to fire starters is warranted as a self-igniting starter is both useful and desirable to consumers. The following disclosure provides embodiments having such improvements.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Embodiment described herein provide for a self-igniting assembly having a main portion and a flammable member at least partially disposed therein. An ignition assembly is in ignitable communication with the flammable member such that a flame may be produced on the flammable member as a result of a friction and chemical reaction.
In an embodiment, the ignition assembly further comprises a cavity within the main portion such that the cavity is configured to at least partially receive the flammable member and a handle portion. An ignition surface is separated from the flammable member via a safety point while at least one match-like component disposed between the flammable member and the ignition surface.
In an embodiment, the flammable member may be provided as a wick or match-like member. The end of the flammable member has an adhesive permitting the engagement between the flammable member and an ignitable device such as a log, candle, firework, briquette bag, or fire starter.
In yet another aspect, a self-igniting system is provided having the self-igniting assembly, as described herein, along with a user performing the steps of gripping a handle portion provided with the assembly followed by tugging on the handle to impart friction which results in a chemical reaction within the assembly. The wick is ignited by the reaction and a flame is sustained for a suitable length of time.
Embodiments described herein also provide for a self-igniting candle which forgoes the need for an auxiliary lighting component such as a match, lighter, or other flame source. The candle assembly has a combustible body with a wick at least partially disposed within the body.
An ignition assembly is in ignitable communication with the wick such that the ignition assembly may light the wick producing a flame thereon.
The flame is sustained by the wick and fuel source of the body. Commonly, the fuel source is a paraffin wax or similar component commonly used in the candle making arts.
In an embodiment, the ignition assembly has a housing with a cavity therein. The cavity is configured to at least partially receive the wick. An ignition surface is in communication with the wick while a match-like material is disposed between the wick and the ignition surface.
In an aspect of the invention, the assembly also has an end member which fittingly engages the ignition assembly. The end member is comprised of a cavity dimensioned to retain a second self-igniting candle assembly therein such that candle assemblies may be stacked atop one another to facilitate a longer burn time as desired by the user.
In yet another aspect, a plurality of indicators corresponding to a measurement of time as a result of the candle assembly burning are provided with the body of the candle.
A grip portion may be provided and anchored at least one anchor portion of the housing.
In an embodiment, a bottom having a complimentary edge fittingly engages a tapered portion.
The present invention also provides for a self-igniting candle system having a combustible body with a top member and a bottom, the top member defined as a tapered portion disposed between the body and a wick, wherein the wick is at least partially disposed in the body. An ignition assembly in ignitable communication with the wick such that the ignition assembly chemically ignites the wick as a result of imparted friction to produce a flame thereon. A user performs the steps of gripping a handle disposed on the housing and then tugs the handle to impart friction to the ignition surface. The wick is then ignited, and the flame is sustained until it is extinguished via the user or elimination of all available fuel.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more complete understanding of the embodiments, and the attendant advantages and features thereof, will be more readily understood by references to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates a front elevation view of the assembly configured as a releasable tag, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 illustrates a front elevation view of the assembly configured as a set of matches, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 illustrates a front elevation view of the inner side of the main portion of the tag assembly, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of the releasable tag ignitably engaged with a pyrotechnic device, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of the releasable tag ignitably engaged with a flammable device, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 illustrates a front elevation view of the wick, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7 illustrates a front elevation view of the wick having a safety point, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of multiple releasably engaged tags ignitably engaged with a flammable device, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of multiple releasably engaged tags ignitably engaged with a fire log, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of multiple releasable tags ignitably engaged with a flare, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of the releasable tag ignitably engaged with a barbeque starting implement, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of the candle assembly, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective view of the candle assembly, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14 illustrates a cross section view of the candle assembly, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 15 illustrates a cross section view of the top member and ignition assembly, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of a user engaging with the candle assembly, according to an embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 17 illustrates a flame burning atop the candle assembly, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The specific details of the single embodiment or variety of embodiments described herein are set forth in this application. Any specific details of the embodiments are used for demonstration purposes only and no unnecessary limitation or inferences are to be understood therefrom.
Any reference to “invention” within this document is a reference to an embodiment of a family of inventions, with no single embodiment including features that are necessarily included in all embodiments, unless otherwise stated. Furthermore, although there may be references to “advantage's” provided by some embodiments, other embodiments may not include those same advantages, or may include different advantages. Any advantages described herein are not to be construed as limiting to any of the claims.
Before describing in detail exemplary embodiments, it is noted that the embodiments reside primarily in combinations of components related to the system. Accordingly, the system and method components have been represented where appropriate by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.
As used herein, relational terms, such as “first” and “second,” “top” and “bottom,” and the like, may be used solely to distinguish one entity or element from another entity or element without necessarily requiring or implying any physical or logical relationship or order between such entities or elements.
Specific quantities, dimensions, spatial characteristics, compositional characteristics and performance characteristics may be used explicitly or implicitly herein, but such specific quantities are presented as examples only and are approximate values unless otherwise indicated. Discussions and depictions pertaining to these, if present, are presented as examples only and do not limit the applicability of other characteristics, unless otherwise indicated.
In general, the invention described herein relates to a releasable tag assembly 1 which may be affixed to a variety of flammable, pyrotechnic, or ignitable components commonly purchased by consumers. These items may include, but are not limited to fireworks, candles, fire starters and accelerants, matches, fire logs, emergency flares, and barbeque starters. Alternatively, the assembly may be provided by itself as a means for generating a flame for any application desired by the user.
In reference to FIG. 1, the tag assembly 1 is illustrated in an embodiment of the invention having a flammable member defined as a wick 104 or match-like member 23 (see FIG. 2) engaged with a main portion 9. The main portion 9 houses the wick 104 and handle 204 within a cavity 8. To form the cavity, the main portion is folded at a top edge 6 with the handle 204 retained within apertures on the first side 3 and second side 7 of the main portion 9. The wick 104 enters at the bottom edge aperture while edges of the first side 3 and second side 7 may be sealed to define the cavity 8. An adhesive 5 is positioned nearmost the end 10 of the wick 104 such that the tag assembly 1 may be affixed to an ignitable device.
FIG. 2 illustrates an alternate embodiment of the invention wherein a plurality of matches or match-like members 23 are engaged with a waterproof casing 25 partially covering the match-like members 23 at a top edge 27. The casing is defined by sealed right, left, and top edges 24, 26, 27 having the match-like member 23 at least partially embedded therein. Each match-like member 23 is disposed through an aperture 28 at the bottom edge 22 of the waterproof casing 25. An adhesive 21 joins the plurality of match-like members 23 and provides a means for affixing the assembly to an ignitable device.
The waterproof casing 25 provides a unique advantage over matches commonly used in the arts. While matches may be provided with a waterproof packaging or storage container, these items only serve to protect the matches when not in use. The present invention has a waterproof casing 25 that is permanently affixed and does not require the user to remove it to ignite the flame.
Both the wick embodiment and match-like embodiment in FIGS. 1 and 2 permit the releasable engagement between the main portion 9 and the wick 104 or match-like component 23. Sufficient friction is imparted upon removal of the main portion 9 to result in the chemical reaction to ignite the materials. As shown in FIG. 7, a safety point 61 is disposed along the length of the wick 104. During production, the wick 104 is positioned within the main portion 9 of the tug tag assembly 1 such that the safety point 61 separates the red phosphorous and the potassium chlorate to ensure the chemicals do not contact one another. This prohibits unintentional reactions between the chemicals which would result in combustion. During use, as the user tugs the main portion 9 away from the wick 104, the safety point 61 is moved allowing the red phosphorous and potassium chlorate to contact one another and ignite the wick 104.
In a preferred embodiment the safety point contains the potassium chlorate within a pocket, thus separating the chemicals. Once the user tugs the assembly 1, the potassium chlorate is revealed from the pocket and presented to the red phosphorous resulting in the desired chemical reaction.
FIG. 3 illustrates the inner side 36 of the main portion 9 (see FIG. 1) of the tag assembly 1 in an unfolded configuration. This is in contrast to the folded configured illustrated in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 described hereinabove. The main portion 9 may be constructed of a semi-rigid material such as paper, cardboard, or other material having favorable pyrotechnic or flammable characteristics dependent upon the application of the tug tag assembly 1. A plurality of match-like components 32 are positioned at each end of the unfolded main portion 9 such that when folded, they may strike one another to ignite the wick 104 or other flammable member disposed therein (see FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 for further reference). Folded configurations are shown on lines 34 and 35, however one can appreciate that a number of folded configurations may be utilized dependent on the configuration of the match like components 32.
The main portion shown is a single unit folded upon itself. While this is one embodiment, certainly those ski fled in the arts may appreciate that separate components having an adhesive may be adhered to one another resembling opposing “stickers” adhered about the flammable member.
Each embodiment is comprised of an ignition assembly which may be comprised of the main portion 9, flammable member, match-like material, and handle as well as their associated components as described herein.
In an embodiment, each match-like component 32 is adhered to the inner surface 36. A waterproof coating or sealant may be provided so long as an adequate flame may still be produced. Typically, matches known in the arts contain an oxidizing agent such as potassium chlorate together with tetraphosphorus trisulfide, glass, and a binding agent. The assembly may utilize red phosphorus and potassium chlorate as well as other known chemicals used in the arts. The chemicals utilized are shock sensitive, meaning that a striking force, when applied, results in a violent chemical reaction to produce the desired flame. For safety, the red phosphorus and potassium chlorate are provided separately to ensure they are not accidentally combusted.
Referencing FIG. 1 and FIG. 3 and during production of the assembly 1, the handle 204 is disposed along fold line 35 to contact the inner surface 36 of the main portion 9. The main portion is then folded along line 35 and edges 3, 7 are sealed. A wick 104 or match-like member 23 is disposed within the main portion 9 and sufficiently contacts the match-like components 32 such that as the user pulls the main portion 9 away from the wick 104, sufficient friction is imparted causing the chemical reaction in the match-like components 32 to ignite the wick 104 resulting in a sustained flame thereon.
In an embodiment, the tug tag assembly 1 may be provided as a standalone source of flame without being affixed to another flammable or ignitable device.
Now referring to FIG. 4, the tag assembly 1 is in communication with a pyrotechnic device illustrated as a firework 33. Anchor region 31 on the firework 33 permits the assembly 1 to ignitably engage with the firework 33 such that as the tag assembly 1 is tugged and ignited, the flame produced therefrom will effectively ignite the firework. FIG. 5 illustrates a similar means of attachment at the anchor point 31 wherein the tag assembly is affixed to a flammable item 41 such as a fire starter, log, or similar implement.
FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 illustrate the wick 104 of the tug tag assembly 1. The wick 104 is comprised of first and second ends 51, 53 wherein one end is affixed via an adhesive or fastener to an ignitable device and the other end is engaged with the tug tag assembly 1. In an embodiment, the wick 104 may have a safety point 61 to restrict the ignition of the wick and tag assembly 1 keeping the match-like material and flammable wick 104 from contacting one another. The wick may be provided with an accelerant as known in the arts, which may include waxes or chemicals coating the wick 104 material. Further, magnesium may be applied to ensure proper ignition in unfavorable weather and climate conditions.
Now referring to FIG. 8, a fire log 73 is illustrated having multiple tug tag assemblies 1 affixed thereto. In the current arts, the fire log 73 is provided with a flammable packaging 75 the log therein. This provides a means for igniting the log 73 as well as protects the log 73 itself from dampening or degrading during shipping and storage. A user will typically ignite the ends of the packaging 75 to provide a flame to the log 73. To negate the requirement of a match or butane lighter, the tag assembly 1 is affixed to each end of the packaging utilizing similar means such as an adhesive as discussed hereinabove. A flammable member or accelerant 71 in communication with the packaging 75 may extend between each tag assembly 1 to provide a more robust fuel source.
One skilled in the arts may appreciate that any number of tag assemblies 1 may be affixed to any of the ignitable devices herein, as deemed useful or advantageous by the user or provider of the product.
In specific reference to FIG. 9, at least one assembly 1 is adhered, fastens, or affixed to a fire log 72. In the present embodiment, an assembly 1 is affixed at each end 76, 78 of the fire log 72 by similar means as described hereinabove. The assemblies 1 may be connected by an accelerant 71 disposed between each assembly 1 along the length of the fire log 72. Fastening points 79 permit the assembly 1 and wick 104 to engage one another.
The fire log may be defined by a wood log, a log made of organic materials, a flammable device of any other materials utilized in the current arts.
FIG. 10 shows the tag assembly 1 in communication with a flare 81 in a similar manner as described hereinabove. The tag assembly 1 is affixed at an end of the flare. As the user tugs the tag assembly 1 to ignite the flame, the flare is effectively ignited in-turn. In the current arts, flares 81 may require magnesium or a similar element with a high burn temperature to be positioned near the top of the flare 81 due to their high-temperature threshold of ignition.
One skilled in the arts will appreciate that magnesium or similar elements may be included with a number of embodiments and ignitable devices.
In yet another embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 11 illustrates the tag assembly 1 engaged with a barbeque starter, such as a briquette hag 93, atop a barbeque 91. The briquette bag 93 may be constructed of an ignitable material such as paper, cardboard, or similar implement. Briquettes 95 or similar items may be stored therein as a barbeque starter or adjuvant as commonly utilized in the arts. Connection means 97 fastens the briquette bag 93 to partially enclose the briquettes 95 therein. The tug tag assembly 1 is affixed to the connection means 97 or to the bag 93 itself such that a flame is transferred thereto once the tag assembly 1 has been ignited. Briquettes within the bag may be provided pre-soaked with a flammable accelerant such as starter fluid or may be provided without the accelerant allowing the user to add their own accelerant if desired.
In an alternate embodiment, a bundle of prepared evergreen wood products may be utilized as a fuel source for a fire starter. In this manner, the tag assembly 1 may be affixed to the bundle to ignite the fuel source.
A system for operation is provided. The user first procures the assembly described herein which may or may not be provided with an ignitable device attached thereto. The user then grips the handle and tugs to ignite the flammable member within the main portion. The flame is then sustained on the flammable member until it is transferred to the ignitable device, or until fuel sources are depleted.
In any embodiment, a wick of any ignitable item may be dipped in potassium chlorate and provided with the assembly 1 as shown and described herein. In this manner, the assembly 1 may be sold and provided as a standalone item to be engaged with a multitude of ignitable devices.
In an embodiment, the present invention relates to a self-igniting candle which forgoes the need to be ignited with a lighter. As is well known in the art, the candle assembly TOO is comprised of at least one wick 104 disposed within a body 108. The body 108 may be formed in almost any size or shape imaginable. Typically, the body 108 is formed as a cylinder, rectangular cube, cube, or similar relatively simple geometric structure however one skilled in the art could produce a variety of configurations utilizing a mold. The candle body 108 is solid at room temperature and melts to a liquid phase proximate the wick 104 by the heat of the flame 112 present on the wick 104. The flame 112 is sustained by the fuel comprising the liquefied candle body 108. The body 108 may be formed of any suitable low melting point solid fuel source. It is common in the arts to use paraffin wax for its favorable qualities, however, many formulations exist.
In alternative embodiments, the body may be formed of a triacylglycerol-based wax having a triacylglycerol component and a polyol fatty acid partial ester component. In another embodiment, hydrogenated triglycerides having an iodine content in addition to paraffin wax is utilized as the body to prevent the formation of soot, an undesirable by-product of candles when ignited. Other embodiments may include various perfumes, coloring agents, and various wax-like components disclosed in the current arts.
The candle body may also include various adjuvants including dyes, aromatic agents, and/or decorative elements. Traditionally, these candles are ignited by an external source of flame such as a match or lighter. Unlike these traditional candles, the invention herein does not require an external flame source.
FIG. 12 illustrates an embodiment of the candle body 108 having an embodiment of the frictionally flammable ignition assembly 116. In the present embodiment, the ignition assembly 116 has a frictionally activated ignition surface wherein the user must grip a top portion 140 and apply suitable pressure to ignite the wick 104. While the wick 104 is at least partially embedded in the body 108 of the candle, the wick 104 is also at least partially embedded into the ignition assembly 116 having an exposed portion 144 therebetween.
In an embodiment the ignition assembly 116 is frictionally engaged with the wick 104 permitting the user to forcibly remove the ignition assembly 116 to ignite the wick 104 during a time of activation of the candle.
In the embodiment described in FIG. 12, the ignition assembly 116 may be topped with an ignition cap facilitating the grip thereof by the user upon ignition.
In a preferred embodiment, each candle 100 has an end member 148 having a cavity 132 disposed within its bottom-most end. This cavity 132 is dimensioned to receive the ignition assembly 116 of a separate candle 100 of the same type. This permits candles to be connected top 152 to bottom 156 making a taller candle having a longer burn time. Preferentially, the end member 148 has a snap fit with the ignition assembly 116 to retain the two components together such that the candle may be stood straight on its bottom surface 160. The embedded wick 136 will ignite and not disrupt the burn cycle of the candle of the flame reaches it during use.
Now referring to FIG. 13, a second embodiment of the candle 100 is illustrated. The second embodiment has an altered ignition assembly 116 comprising a housing 208 and a handle 204 extending from the top end 212 of the housing 208. In a preferred embodiment, the handle 204 has a grip portion 216 at the top end as well as an anchor portion 220 fastening the handle 204 to the ignition assembly 116 at least one point. During use per FIG. 12, the user will grip the handle 204 at the grip portion 216 and forcibly remove the ignition assembly 116 from the wick 104.
In a preferred embodiment, each embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 are comprised of a tapered portion 128 extending between the body 108 and the wick 104. The tapered portion 128 may aid in the preliminary ignition of the candle 100. While FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 have similar results, FIG. 13 specifically reduces the need for the user to pinch the ignition assembly 116 during the ignition procedure. This reduces stress on the user and provides for a more reliable ignition of the candle 100.
A plurality of indicators are presented on the body of the candle. Each indicator may correspond to a measurement of time, such as an hour. This allows the user to track the amount of time the candle has burned. In use, this may be utilized as a time-tracking device in the wilderness, during periods of lost electrical power, or as otherwise deemed useful.
In each embodiment, the body 108 has a top member 224 having the tapered portion 128, wick 104, and ignition assembly 116 thereon. Segmented regions 228 extend down the body 108 to the end member 148. Segmented regions 228 form the shape of the body 108 of the candle 100.
Now referring to FIG. 14, a cross-section view of the embedded wick 136 is illustrated in an embodiment of the present invention. As mentioned above, candles 100 in the present invention may be stacked atop one another by fittingly engaging the wick 104 into the cavity 132 of an end member 148. The tapered portion 128 of the candle 100 contacts a complimentary surface 304 molded to the bottom surface 160 of the end member 148.
FIG. 15 illustrates a cross-section of the top member 224, tapered portion 128 and ignition assembly 116 in an embodiment of the present invention. The housing 208 is illustrates having first and second receiving regions 412, 416 to receive first and second ends 420, 424 of the handle 204. The engagement between the receiving regions and first and second ends is strong enough to prevent the detachment therebetween. This may be accomplished with integral molding, adhesions, or other forms of affixment known in the arts. The housing 208 has an inner cavity 428 having a surface contacting an ignition surface 404 which contacts a match-like material 432. Each of the ignition surface 404 and match-like material 432 promote the flammability of the ignition assembly 116.
Now referring to FIG. 16 and FIG. 17, a user 500 is illustrated gripping the handle at the grip portion 216 in preparation of the ignition of the candle 100. As the user 500 tugs in direction d₁, the ignition surface 404 slides along the match-like material 432 (as illustrated in FIG. 14). This results in a pyrotechnic effect and ignited the candle 100 so long as sufficient friction between the ignition surface 404 and match-like material 432 is reached. The sparks generated thereby ignite the wick 104 as sourced by the flammable properties thereof as well as the flammable properties comprising the body 108. This process, if performed correctly results in a sustained flame 600 burning at a controlled rate through the energy supplied by the candle 100.
As the user tugs, they impart friction resulting in a chemical reaction to ignite the wick. The flame will then continue to burn until the user extinguishes the flame, or all source of fuel are eliminated, and the flame self-extinguishes.
The flammable head pyrotechnic material (match head, lighter, etc.) potassium chlorate and sulfur as active ingredients, may include various filler and the like. When struck, such as by moving against a rough surface, the ignition assembly 116 ignites from the chemical reaction, and generates a flame. The flame in turn lights the wick 104, thus lighting the candle 100 without requiring an external source of flame, such as a match or lighter. Note that on candles having multiple wicks, one, some or all of the wicks may include an ignition assembly 116.
In one embodiment, the flammable head 116 is of the type found on “strike-anywhere” matches (also commonly known as “kitchen matches”), which exhibit the feature of igniting when struck against any sufficiently rough surface. In this embodiment, the ignition assembly 116 may comprise a two-part or multi-part formulation, as necessary or desired.
In another embodiment, the ignition assembly 116 is of the type found on conventional book matches, which must be struck against a particular frictional surface provided on the match book or box, or similar surface. In this embodiment, the candle 100 may include a striking surface affixed to the candle body, as depicted in FIG. 14. As used herein, the term “striking surface” refers to a surface having a coefficient of dynamic friction in the range sufficient to result in the chemical reaction and ignite the ignition assembly 116, when the ignition assembly 116 is struck, or rubbed against the striking surface for a short distance, such as about one half inch.
The ignition assembly 116 may be formed over the entire portion of the wick 104 extending from the candle body 108. In this embodiment, at least an exposed portion of the wick may comprise a structurally rigid, flammable member formed from a flammable material such as wood, cardboard or the like. Such structural rigidity may be necessary to facilitate striking the flammable head 116 against a rough surface or against a striking surface. Additionally, the structurally rigid, flammable member may be broken between the candle body 108 and the ignition member 116 to provide a “match,” which may be ignited by striking, and subsequently used to light the wick 104, as well as other candles 100.
In this embodiment, the entire wick 104 may comprise the structurally rigid, flammable member. Alternatively, the structurally rigid, flammable member may comprise only an exposed portion of the wick 104 (or any other portion of the wick 104), with the remainder of the wick formed from string, twine, or other traditional wick material.
In an embodiment, the wick 104 may be coated with a stiffening agent having a relatively low burning point. The stiffening agent may be comprised of a wax-like substance to aid the wick 104 in standing upright throughout the burn period as well as during storage. The stiffening agent aids in promoting an even and controlled burn of the candle throughout its use. Further the low burning point promoted the ignition of the wick during the ignition phase.
In an embodiment, the candle may be provided as a single unit having the ability to break apart into multiple candles as shown and described above. Further, smaller candles may be provided to allow the user to “stack” each candle atop one another.
Many different embodiments have been disclosed herein, in connection with the above description and the drawings. It will be understood that it would be unduly repetitious and obfuscating to literally describe and illustrate every combination and subcombination of these embodiments. Accordingly, all embodiments can be combined in any way and/or combination, and the present specification, including the drawings, shall be construed to constitute a complete written description of all combinations and subcombinations of the embodiments described herein, and of the manner and process of making and using them, and shall support claims to any such combination or subcombination.
It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present embodiment is not limited to what has been particularly shown and described hereinabove. A variety of modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings without departing from the following claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A self-igniting assembly comprising:

a. a main portion;

b. at least one flammable member at least partially disposed in the main portion; and

c. an ignition assembly in ignitable communication with the flammable member, wherein the ignition assembly ignites the flammable member to produce a flame thereon.

2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the ignition assembly further comprises:

a. a cavity within the main portion, wherein the cavity is configured to at least partially receive the flammable member and a handle portion;

b. an ignition surface separated from the flammable member by a safety point disposed on the flammable member; and

c. at least one match-like component disposed between the flammable member and the ignition surface.

3. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the flammable member is a wick.

4. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the flammable member is a match-like member.

5. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the main portion is foldable to define the cavity.

6. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the ignition surface is provided as red phosphorus and potassium chlorate, wherein the red phosphorous and potassium chlorate are separated by the safety point.

7. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the flammable member has an end provided with an adhesive or fastener, wherein the adhesive or fastener permits the engagement between the assembly and an ignitable device.

8. The assembly of claim 7, wherein the ignitable device is a fire log.

9. The assembly of claim 7, wherein the ignitable device is a pyrotechnic device.

10. The assembly of claim 7, wherein the ignitable device is a fire starter.

11. The assembly of claim 10, wherein the fire starter is configured as a briquette bag for use with a barbeque.

12. A self-igniting assembly comprising:

a. a main portion removable engaged with at least one flammable member at least partially disposed in the main portion, the main portion having an ignition assembly in ignitable communication with the flammable member, wherein the ignition assembly ignites the flammable member to produce a flame thereon;

b. a cavity within the main portion, wherein the cavity is configured to at least partially receive the flammable member and a handle portion;

c. an ignition surface separated from the flammable member by a safety point disposed on the flammable member; and

d. at least one match-like component disposed between the flammable member and the ignition surface; and

e. an end provided with an adhesive positioned on the flammable member, wherein the adhesive or fastener permits the engagement between the assembly and an ignitable device.

13. The assembly of claim 12, wherein the ignitable device is a fire log.

14. The assembly of claim 12, wherein the ignitable device is a pyrotechnic device.

15. The assembly of claim 12, wherein the ignitable device is a fire starter.

16. The assembly of claim 15, wherein the fire starter is configured as a briquette bag for use with a barbeque.

17. A self-igniting system comprising:

a. a main portion;

b. at least one flammable member releasably engaged with the main portion;

c. an ignition assembly separated from the flammable member by a safety point; and

d. at least one ignition surface positioned on an inner surface of the main portion, wherein the ignition assembly ignites the flammable member to produce a flame thereon;

e. a user performing the steps of:

i. gripping a handle disposed on the main portion;

ii. tugging the handle to disengage the safety point and impart friction resulting in a chemical reaction on the ignition surface; and

iii. igniting the flammable member via the imparted friction resulting in the chemical reaction.

18. The system of claim 17, wherein the ignition assembly further comprises:

b. an ignition surface; and

19. The system of claim 17, wherein the flammable member is coated with a stiffening agent, wherein the stiffening agent has a low melting point to aid in the ignition of the flammable member.

20. The system of claim 17, wherein the flammable member has an end provided with an adhesive, wherein the adhesive permits the engagement between the assembly and an ignitable device.