Importance

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Abstract

The present invention relates to disposable cigarette lighters which have a latch member which is intended to resist inadvertent operation and to make undesirable operation by unintended operators more difficult. The lighter preferably includes a latch member which in its initial condition blocks movement of the actuator in order to resist operation of the lighter. The latch member is movable to a ready position so that the actuator may be depressed in order to produce a flame. It is preferred that the lighter contain additional or alternative forces on the latch member to improve the ability of the latch member to return to the blocking position over the life of the lighter and to improve the consistency of the latch member's movement and return. In some of the embodiments, this additional or alternative force is provided by a bending moment or flexing force preferably applied to the latch member through a flexing mechanism to flex the latch along at least a portion of its length. Alternatively or in addition to, a biasing member may assist in returning the latch member to the initial position over the life of the lighter and improve the consistency of the latch force.

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First Claim