Abstract: A candle with a decorative light element is provided. A light emitting device is disposed within the main body of the candle, and a sensor connected to the light emitting device detects the presence of a flame on the wick. When a flame is detected by the sensor, the light emitting device is activated. The portion of the candle from which the wick projects is preferably substantially opaque, and the portion of the candle in which the light emitting device is disposed is preferably at least partially light transmissible or translucent, so that the glow of the flame does not interfere with the glow of the light emitting device within the candle.

Abstract: A portable catalytically heatable appliance is provided. The appliance includes a catalyst support structure to flamelessly combust liquid or gaseous fuel and thereby provide a lower temperature heat source than a heat source that combusts fuel via flame. The fuel is ignited inside the catalytic support structure by a spark electrode. The ignition of the fuel inside the structure obviates the need for separate flame arresters. The ignition system includes a piezoelectric device that causes a voltage potential to form between the electrode and the catalytic support structure. A spark jumps from the electrode to an interior surface of the structure and ignites the fuel inside the structure, causing a flame to propagate. The flame heats the catalytic structure to an activation temperature, after which the fuel is combusted flamelessly on the surface of the catalytic structure.

Abstract: In a gas-powered curling iron having a catalyst, a support for the catalyst comprising an inner member having a middle air-pervious portion and an outer member concentrically disposed about the inner member and having a catalytic substrate disposed therebetween.

Abstract: A hand-held portable axial fan hair dryer having an air inlet and an air outlet is provided with a shield and collar assembly proximate the air inlet to substantially prevent hair knotting and tangling. Hair styling attachments, such as a comb or brush, may be removably attached proximate the air outlet.