Abstract: When a cap of a cigarette lighter is opened, fuel is mixed in a gasified state with externally drawn air, and the resultant mixture of air and gasified fuel is supplied to a catalyst within the lighter body for causing natural combustion of the mixture by the oxidizing action to elevate the temperature of the air-fuel mixture to the ignition point so as to bring about ignition.

Abstract: A cigarette lighter employing a combustible gas uses electric means for heating the combustible gas toward its flash point. The electric means is aided by catalytic or thermo-electric means to reduce the power supplied by a self-contained battery. In one embodiment, the combustible gas contains a component which reacts with a catalyst to provide an additional heat increment to the gas in order to reduce the amount of electricity required. In other embodiments, a thermo-electric generator, heated by the flame of the lighter, generates electricity which recharges a rechargeable battery.

Abstract: A hypergolic substance which is spontaneously ignited upon being exposed to the atmosphere ignites the fuel issuing from the nozzle of a cigarette lighter. The hypergolic substance is either mixed with the fuel in a fuel tank or is separately contained within the lighter body. Dispensing of at least the hypergolic substance is controlled by a positive and conscious physical act of the user employing a lever mounted within the lighter body or direct finger pressure on a valve. A mechanical interlock additionally prevents accidental or casual release of the hypergolic substance. The mechanical interlock holds the lever or valve immobile until the cap is opened.