Abstract: An apparatus for simulating flames includes a light source, a viewing screen capable of diffusing and transmitting light, a rear reflector disposed behind the viewing screen, and a light producer for producing moving beams of light. The light source is disposed below the reflector and behind the viewing screen. The light producer is disposed in front of the light source and below the screen and light from the light source is reflected by the light producer onto the reflector and is reflected by the reflector onto the screen to produce a perceptible image viewable on the screen.

Abstract: Apparatus for producing an optical effect includes a screen comprising at least one electroluminescent material and associated electrodes for exciting the electroluminescent material to emit light. The electrodes are locally excitable so that the regions of the electroluminescent material generally in the shape of flames may be excited. In an alternative form, or additionally, the screen comprises a material of variable opacity such as a liquid crystal polymer or a suspended particle device gain, electrodes are locally excitable to locally change the opacity of the screen. The screen is locally illuminated to provide the impression of flames.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to simulated flame effect fires which include an apertured bed, such as a simulated fuel bed, a vapour generating means such as an ultrasonic transducer and means for providing a rising current of air to carry the vapour through the apertured bed. Light sources are provided below the fuel bed to provide localised illumination.

Abstract: A moveable or relocatable structure for providing an optical effect includes casing and an apparatus for providing an optical effect mounted in the casing. The apparatus is preferably a flame effect fire. The apparatus is mounted in an aperture of the casing and a gap is defined between the apparatus and the casing front wall to define an air flow path for entry of air into the apparatus, for example to supply a heater. A frame is provided in front of the apparatus to shield the gap from the normal view of a user. The frame is spaced forwardly from the apparatus and the casing front wall to allow an air flow path between the frame and the casing front wall which communicates with the gap defined between the apparatus and the casing front wall.

Abstract: Apparatus for producing an optical effect includes a screen comprising at least one electroluminescent material and associated electrodes for exciting the electroluminescent material to emit light. The electrodes are locally excitable so that the regions of the electroluminescent material generally in the shape of flames may be excited. In an alternative form, or additionally, the screen comprises a material of variable opacity such as a liquid crystal polymer or a suspended particle device. gain, electrodes are locally excitable to locally change the opacity of the screen. The screen is locally illuminated to provide the impression of flames.

Abstract: The present invention relates to apparatus for producing an optical effect, and in particular to an apparatus for producing an optical effect resembling flames and smoke. More especially, the invention relates to flame effect electric fires, such as for domestic use, which may or may not include means for space heating and which include and optical effect to resemble burning solid fuel.