Solar-powered aroma generator

Claim 1

In combination with a switch-controlled electric light bulb having a threaded plug and a threaded socket disposed in a room which is also subject to natural ambient light, a switchless aroma generator installed in the room which is automatically activated only when the electric light bulb is switched on, the activated generator functioning to discharge an air current into the room which conveys an aromatic vapor to modify the atmosphere prevailing therein, said generator comprising: A an air-permeable cartridge containing an aroma supply which is exuded into the atmosphere at a relatively rapid rate as an air current is forced through the cartridge; B a fan driven by a low-voltage, direct-current motor having predetermined power requirements, the fan being arranged to force an air current through said cartridge; C a housing incorporating said cartridge and said motor-driven fan, said housing comprising means for mounting it on a wall in said room; and D a solar cell assembly producing a direct-current output placed in close proximity to said bulb in said room and irradiated thereby when the bulb is switched on, said assembly being connected to said motor to supply power thereto, the electrical relationship of said assembly to said motor being such that the cell output is sufficient to power said motor only when the bulb is switched on to irradiate the assembly, and is insufficient when the bulb is switched off and the cell output then depends on ambient light in the room, whereby the operation of the generator is coordinated with that of the bulb despite the absence of a wired connection therebetween and an aroma is generated only when the bulb is switched on.