U.S. patent application number 16/204901 was filed with the patent office on 2019-03-28 for table top fire effect attachment.
The applicant listed for this patent is Bond Manufacturing Co., Inc.. Invention is credited to Cameron Jenkins.
Application Number | 20190093898 16/204901 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 57689064 |
Filed Date | 2019-03-28 |
View All Diagrams
United States Patent
Application |
20190093898 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Jenkins; Cameron |
March 28, 2019 |
Table Top Fire Effect Attachment
Abstract
A fire effect device for holding, controlling and displaying
fire and methods of attaching and mounting such a device to
furniture, such as umbrella tables. This includes an internal
chamber 11 which houses a fuel dispersion assembly 12 and a rigid
hollow tube which may be mounted to the chamber or be of unitary
construction with the chamber. The rigid hollow tube is designed to
be inserted into a hole or ape11ure of a table, such as an umbrella
hole, and connected to a gas valve and thereafter a fuel line or
source, such as a propane tank. The device is attached and detached
to the table with ease by i) engaging or disengaging the fuel line
from the fire effect device and, ii) the simple turning of a
nut.
Inventors: |
Jenkins; Cameron; (Antioch,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Bond Manufacturing Co., Inc. |
Antioch |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
57689064 |
Appl. No.: |
16/204901 |
Filed: |
November 29, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
15191181 |
Jun 23, 2016 |
10161636 |
|
|
16204901 |
|
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F24B 1/199 20130101;
F24C 3/006 20130101; F24B 1/181 20130101 |
International
Class: |
F24B 1/181 20060101
F24B001/181; F24C 3/00 20060101 F24C003/00; F24B 1/199 20060101
F24B001/199 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jun 2, 2016 |
CN |
2016205387405 |
Claims
1. A fire effect device, comprising: a) a fire receptacle having an
internal chamber, a bottom surface and at least one opening through
the bottom surface; b) a fuel dispersion assembly comprising a
substantially hollow enclosure having at least a first opening to
allow a gas to exit the assembly and a second opening to allow gas
to enter the assembly, wherein the second opening is in detachable
connection with a gas valve; c) a rigid hollow tube having
threading on its outside surface and being mounted to the bottom
surface of the fire receptacle such that the hollow portion of the
tube is aligned with the at least one opening of the fire
receptacle; and, d) a nut configured to mate with the outside
surface of the hollow tube wherein the gas valve comprises a gas
outlet and gas inlet which may be detachably connected to a gas
source.
2. The fire effect device of claim 1, wherein the second opening of
the substantially hollow enclosure comprises a tubular connecting
segment which is substantially hollow and includes a first end, a
second end and a tubular wall connecting the two ends having an
aperture along the wall to allow air to enter the tubular
connecting segment.
3. The fire effect device of claim 1, wherein the tubular
connecting segment and the fuel dispersion assembly is of unitary
construction.
4. The fire effect device of claim 1, wherein the hollow tube is
configured to be inserted into an opening on a table.
5. The fire effect device of claim 4, wherein the nut is used to
secure the fire effect device to the table.
6. The fire effect device of claim 1, wherein the hollow tube is
mounted to the bottom surface of the fire receptacle by
fasteners.
7. The fire effect device of claim 1, wherein the hollow tube
comprises a first end and a second end, with the first end having
one or more openings configured to receive a fastener and the
second end having an outer surface configured to receive a nut.
8. The fire effect device of claim 7, wherein gas valve comprises a
knob in connection with a valve stem to control the flow of gas
there through.
9. The fire effect device of claim 4, wherein the fire receptacle
is configured to rest on a surface of a table.
10. The fire effect device of claim 1, wherein the hollow tube is
rigid and has a diameter of from about 1 in. to about 1.9 in.
11. A kit for providing a fire on a table top, comprising: a) the
fire effect device of claim 1, b) written or graphic instructions
for use comprising the following steps: placing the fire effect
device on a table top such that the rigid hollow tube is aligned
with an opening of the table top; tightening the fire effect device
to the table by engaging the nut with the rigid hollow tube; and,
connecting the fire effect device to a gas source.
12. The kit of claim 11, wherein the instructions are provided in
the form of an html address.
13. The kit of claim 11, further comprising one or more photographs
or drawings depicting one or more steps of using the fire effect
device.
14. The kit of claim 11, wherein the gas source is a propane
tank.
15. The kit of claim 11, wherein the fire effect device is
detachable from the table top.
16. The kit of claim 11, wherein the written or graphic
instructions for use further comprise the following steps for
detaching the fire effect device from the table top: disengaging
the nut from the rigid hollow tube such that the nut is separated
from the rigid hollow tube; and, disconnecting the fire effect
device from the gas source.
17. The kit of claim 11, wherein the opening of the table comprises
an umbrella hole.
18. The kit of claim 11, wherein the written or graphic
instructions for use further comprise a step of turning on the gas
source thereby allowing gas to be supplied to the fire effect
device and/or adjusting the amount of gas supplied to the fire
effect device.
19. The fire effect device of claim 2, wherein the second end of
the tubular connecting segment is threadably engagable with a first
end of a hose, the hose being substantially hollow and comprising a
first end and a second end, and the second end of the hose is
threadably engagable with a first end of the gas valve.
20. The fire effect device of claim 2, wherein the second end of
the tubular connecting segment is threadably engagable with a first
end of the gas valve.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. application Ser.
No. 15/191,181 which was filed on Jun. 23, 2016 titled Table Top
Fire Effect Attachment, which claims foreign priority to Chinese
Patent No. 205878246U, issued on Jan. 11, 2017.
BACKGROUND
1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates generally to devices for
holding, controlling and displaying fire and, more particularly to
methods of attaching such a device to furniture, such as tables and
in particular tables having umbrella holes.
2. Related Art
[0003] Fire pits, fire bowls and barbeques are types of fire effect
devices that control fire within a contained space. Fire pits and
bowls can be used as ornamental devices which display fire and/or
provide heat to an indoor or outdoor space. Barbeques generally
also include a grate or grill member to place food thereon and to
cook the food. Attempts have been made to incorporate these kinds
of devices into or within a table top or other piece of
furniture.
[0004] The prior art either provides i) tables with permanently
attached heaters/fire bowl/grill which are too heavy and/or large
and with limited means to remove the fire bowl/grill from the
table, or ii) fire bowl/grills which can be placed on a table, but
are not aesthetically pleasing or practical due to various pieces
and parts required and the presence of connection tubes and other
attachment parts that are not hidden.
[0005] For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,065,466, issued to Baykal,
discloses a combination patio table and outdoor barbeque where the
table has an opening 16 within which a cooking griddle 23 is
contained. Also contained within this opening is a bucket 24 being
positioned underneath the table top 13 which includes venting ports
30 and a rimmed hole 31 to accommodate the pole of the umbrella or
parasol. The opening 16 is much larger in size than the umbrella
hole 31 in order to accommodate the large diameter of the bucket
and griddle which rests upon the bucket. Venting ports are also
placed on the frame (pedestal) of the table to accommodate a gas
line when the gas fired burning feature is employed. This table
requires a number of parts and/or design features which are often
difficult to maintain, keep clean and can often be lost over time.
Furthermore, the table itself must be specially designed to
accommodate the barbeque. For example, the Baykal table must
accommodate the size of bucket 24 and will not fit any other size
barbeque.
[0006] Similarly, U.S. Pat. No. 6,769,906, issued to Grove et al.,
discloses a fire bowl 12 having pegs 16 which function as feet to
be placed upon a table 18. Formed within the table is an enlarged
centrally located hole 24 to place the fire bowl therein. Grove
thus also requires a hole to be formed that accommodates the shape
and size of the fire bow 1 placed therein. The fuel tank of Grove
must be directly attached to the fire bowl whether on top of the
table itself or suspended underneath the table with no support
other than the fire bowl itself. This creates a dangerous situation
with quite a heavy assembly being suspended in air and making
movement of the table very difficult. Furthermore, the fuel tank
and adjustment lever 50 take up space under the table and thereby
restrict the leg movement of individuals sitting at the table. The
Grove design also could not accommodate a larger tank size, such as
a 20 pound propane tank, as all the aforementioned disadvantages
mentioned would become even greater with a larger tank.
[0007] The present invention seeks to overcome these disadvantages
by providing a unique attachment assembly between the fuel tank and
the fire bowl which allows the tank to be separated from the fire
bowl. Furthermore, it is desired to have the ability to use any
size fuel tank in conjunction with a fire bowl, from one pound to
twenty pounds or more, which would minimize the amount of times the
tank must be replaced or refilled. Another desired feature of the
present invention is to overcome the difficulty of accessing the
propane tank and associated controls contained therein in the prior
art. Oftentimes, additional steps for gaining access to the tank
must be taken, such as moving the table or reaching into difficult
to access spaces.
[0008] The fire receptacle of the present invention is easily
attached, detached and reattached to a variety of tables having an
umbrella hole, unlike prior art devices in this area which re-quire
a specialized table with an internal housing or a large cut out on
a table to mount the fire device within the table. Umbrella tables
are a common type of outdoor furniture which are readily available
and can be inexpensive to purchase in comparison to the tables
which are integrated with fire pits and/or bowls. Umbrella tables
are used in households and commercial establishments alike for
outdoor and indoor leisure. Incorporating the present invention
with an umbrella table does not require any alteration of the
table, nor does it require any additional pieces or elements to be
purchased.
[0009] Furthermore, the particular mounting mechanism of the
present invention is a feature unlike the prior art. The present
invention facilitates the removal of the device in as little as two
steps: i) the simple turning of a nut and ii) disconnecting the
connecting hose from the fuel source. Other details and features of
this receptacle are described in detail below and in the
figures.
SUMMARY
[0010] In one general aspect, there is provided a fire effect
device having a fire receptacle with an internal chamber, a bottom
surface and at least one opening through the bottom sur-face, a
fuel dispersion assembly having a substantially hollow enclosure
having at least a first opening to allow a gas to exit the assembly
and a second opening to allow gas to enter the assembly, wherein
the second opening is in detachable connection with a gas valve, a
rigid hollow tube having threading on its outside surface and being
mounted to the bottom surface of the fire receptacle such that the
hollow portion of the tube is aligned with the at least one opening
of the fire receptacle, and a nut configured to mate with the
outside surface of the hollow tube wherein the gas valve includes a
gas outlet and gas inlet which may be detachably connected to a gas
source.
[0011] Embodiments of the device may include one of the following
features. The second opening of the hollow enclosure includes a
tubular connecting segment which is substantially hollow and
includes a first end, a second end and a tubular wall connecting
the two ends having an aperture along the wall to allow air to
enter the tubular connected segment. The tubular connecting segment
and the fuel dispersion assembly may be of unitary construction.
The hollow tube may be configured to be inserted into an opening on
a table. The nut is used to secure the fire effect device to the
table. The hollow tube may be mounted to the bottom sur-face of the
fire receptacle by fasteners. The hollow tube may include a first
end and a second end, with the first end having one or more
openings configured to receive a fastener and the second end having
an outer surface configured to receive a nut. The gas valve may
include a knob in connection with a valve stem to control the flow
of gas therethrough. The fire receptacle may be configured to rest
on a surface of a table. The hollow tube may be rigid and have a
diameter of from about 1 in. to about 1.9 in.
[0012] The second end of the tubular connecting segment may be
threadably engageable with a first end of a hose, the hose being
substantially hollow and having a first end and a second end, and
the second end of the hose may be threadably engageable with a
first end of the gas valve. Alternatively, the second end of the
tubular connecting segment may be threadably engageable with a
first end of the gas valve.
[0013] In another general aspect, there is provided a kit for
providing a fire on a table top, including the fire effect device
described above, and written or graphic instructions for use
comprising the including the following steps: placing the fire
effect device on a table top such that the rigid hollow tube is
aligned with an opening of the table top, tightening the fire
effect device to the table by engaging the nut with the rigid
hollow tube; and, connecting the fire effect device to a gas
source.
[0014] Embodiments of the kit may include one or more of the
following features. The instructions may be provided in the form of
an html address. One or more photographs or drawings depicting one
or more steps of using the fire effect device may be included. The
gas source may be a propane tank. The fire effect device may be
detachable from the table top. The written or graphic instructions
for use may further include the following steps for detaching the
fire effect device from the table top: disengaging the nut from the
rigid hollow tube such that the nut is separated from the rigid
hollow tube, and disconnecting the fire effect device from the gas
source. The opening of the table may be an umbrella hole. The
writ-ten or graphic instructions for use may further include a step
of turning on the gas source thereby allowing gas to be supplied to
the fire effect device and/or adjusting the amount of gas supplied
to the fire effect device.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] FIGS. 1A to 1G show several views of the fire receptacle 10
with extended glass walls and non-combustible rocks within the
internal chamber.
[0016] FIGS. 2A to 2G show several views of the fire receptacle
with several openings placed along its bottom edge to help allow
fumes to exit the device.
[0017] FIGS. 3A to 3G show several views of a fire receptacle 10a
in a third embodiment having an adjustable valve assembly to
control the amount of fuel entering the fuel dispersion assembly
12.
[0018] FIG. 4 shows a close up bottom view of the fire receptacle
10.
[0019] FIG. 5 shows a close up top view of the fuel dispersion
assembly having a plurality of holes for fire to come through in
the direction of the holes.
[0020] FIGS. 6 and 7 show the connection between the fuel
dispersion assembly and a fuel tank or chamber.
[0021] FIG. 8A shows a table having an umbrella hole and the
underside of the fire receptacle having a hollow rigid tube on its
underside.
[0022] FIG. 8B provides a view of the underside of the table with
the hollow rigid tube through the aperture of the table. A nut is
used to securely mount the fire receptacle to the table.
[0023] FIGS. 9A and 9B provide a view of the nut being threaded on
the hollow rigid tube of the fire receptacle in order to securely
mount the fire receptacle to the table.
[0024] FIG. 10 provides a close up view of quick connect fitting
40.
[0025] FIGS. 11-15 show a close up view of an embodiment of the
invention which uses an adjustable valve assembly to control the
amount of fuel entering the fuel dispersion assembly 12.
[0026] FIG. 16 provides a view of an air mixer which may be
incorporated into the fire effect receptacle.
[0027] FIG. 17 is an exploded view of an alternative embodiment of
the invention with fire receptacle 100 which includes gas valve
155, a bent venturi tube 150, and mounting plate 163.
[0028] FIGS. 18-21 are several views of the fire receptacle 100
showing the interior components.
[0029] FIG. 22 is a top view of the fire receptacle 100.
[0030] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the fire receptacle
100.
[0031] FIG. 24 is a front view of the fire receptacle 100.
[0032] FIG. 25 is a bottom view of the fire receptacle 100.
[0033] FIGS. 26 and 27 depict the method of inserting the fire
receptacle 100 into a table having an opening and securing the fire
receptacle to the table.
[0034] FIGS. 28-33 depict an alternative embodiment of the
invention with fire receptacle 200 which includes walls to deflect
flames or sparks within the internal chamber 211 of the
receptacle.
[0035] FIG. 34 is an exploded view of an alternative embodiment of
the invention with fire receptacle 300.
[0036] FIGS. 35 and 36 depict the method of inserting the fire
receptacle 300 into a table having an opening and securing the fire
receptacle to the table.
[0037] FIG. 37 is a perspective view of the fire receptacle
300.
[0038] FIG. 38 is a front view of the fire receptacle 300.
[0039] FIG. 39 is a back view of the fire receptacle 300.
[0040] FIG. 40 is a left side view of the fire receptacle 300.
[0041] FIG. 41 is a right side view of the fire receptacle 300.
[0042] FIG. 42 is a top view of the fire receptacle 300.
[0043] FIG. 43 is a bottom view of the fire receptacle 300.
[0044] FIGS. 44-48 are several views of the interior components of
the fire receptacle 300.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0045] FIG. 1A shows a perspective view of the fire receptacle 10.
Within the fire receptacle is internal chamber 11 which houses a
fuel dispersion assembly 12. The fuel dispersion assembly may be an
enclosure formed of any shape and most preferably is a metal pipe
fanned into a variety of different shapes, such as a straight rod
(as is shown in FIG. 1F), a ring or a square, for example. The fuel
dispersion assembly includes a plurality of holes 19a-h shown more
clearly in FIG. 5, which function to direct the fuel or gas out of
the assembly in the desired direction, which is preferably upwards
or inwards (if the fuel dispersion assembly is a ring or square) so
that when flames are produced, they are directed away from nearby
objects or persons situated around the receptacle. A quick connect
(also known as quick disconnect device or QDD) male fitting 40a is
shown in FIGS. 1A-1E, which is extended through the rigid hollow
tube 17. This male fitting 40a is designed to connect to a gas
source having a female quick connect fitting 40b, as will be
explained in more detail with respect to FIG. 7.
[0046] FIGS. 2A-2G are also provided and show the fire receptacle
10 having no walls, whereas the fire receptacle shown in FIGS. 1A
to 1G include walls 69a, 69b, 69c and 69d. One or more walls may be
provided to block the flame or sparks from escaping the perimeter
of the fire receptacle 10 and therefore may serve a protective
function to objects and persons in close proximity to the fire
bowl. These walls may be constructed of frosted glass, clear glass,
stone and any other suitable material.
[0047] FIGS. 3A to 3G depict an alternative embodiment of the fire
receptacle of the invention, shown as 10a. Fire receptacle 10a
includes a substantially rectangular base with side walls which
project at an angle of greater than 90 degrees with respect to the
flat rectangular base. These side walls form an internal chamber
11a. Fire receptacle 10a includes a plate 33 to partially deflect
the flame from reaching a dangerous height and/or to prevent the
flame from being extinguished by wind.
[0048] The fire receptacle of the invention may therefore take on a
variety of shapes, such as those described above, or a bowl or
square shape, and is not meant to limit the invention.
[0049] Shown in FIGS. 1F and 5 is the fuel dispersion assembly 12
which may be mounted on the floor or bottom surface of the internal
chamber of the fire receptacle using one or more screws, 16a-16d.
The fuel dispersion assembly may be mounted to any internal surface
of the fire receptacle, such as the floor of the receptacle (as is
shown) or the side walls of the receptacle. The surface of the
dispersion assembly includes one or more holes 19a-h, shown in FIG.
5. The fuel dispersion assembly will include an opening or aperture
such that the fuel dispersion assembly can be oriented to align
with a venturi tube 50. A tubular connecting segment such as a
flexible hose type tube is also provided with a first end being
secured to an opening of the venturi tube 50, and the second end
being secured to a gas valve or the fuel supply line or fuel
source. The details of these connections will be explained further
with reference to FIGS. 17-27.
[0050] The hollow rigid tube 17 is shown in more detail in FIGS.
11-15. FIGS. 11-15 show the hollow tube being threaded on its
outside surface with a hollow region that extends the length of the
tube, for example from the floor of the receptacle to the end of
the tube. The hollow rigid tube 17 and fire receptacle 10 may be a
unitary piece such that the tube is welded to the receptacle or
permanently secured by other means. In another embodiment, the
hollow rigid tube 17 may be mounted to the fire receptacle 10 by
screws, for example. This embodiment is shown in more detail in
FIGS. 17-48 and will be explained further below with reference to
hollow rigid tube 163b, 263b, and 366. FIGS. 11-15 show one or more
openings 46a and 46b along the length of the tube, as will be
explained in more detail below. One ad-vantage of the present
invention is that the design is kept simple and clean with very few
parts and steps needed to assemble the fire receptacle. The hollow
rigid tube 17 may be included in the design of both fire receptacle
10 shown in FIGS. 1A-G and 2A-G, as well as fire receptacle 10a
shown in FIGS. 3A-G.
[0051] In practice, fuel enters the dispersion assembly from a fuel
source 15, shown in FIG. 7. FIG. 7 is illustrative of the gas
connection from any fire receptacle described in this application
to a fuel source. To create the flame, a fuel source 15 is
provided, which includes a fuel chamber having an outlet. FIG. 7
shows a flexible hose 67 which includes a gas inlet end 67a and a
gas outlet end 67b. A connector handle 68 is provided to connect
the gas tank to the hose 67. The gas tank includes an internal
chamber and an outlet as is known in the art. The gas inlet end 67a
of the flexible hose is configured to engage with the outlet of the
gas tank to create a substantially airtight seal. The gas source is
preferably a 5-20 lb. propane gas cylinder.
[0052] The diameter of the hollow tube 17 is preferably sized to
line up with a standard umbrella hole of a patio table or umbrella
table, such as a diameter of about 1 in. to about 1.9 in. FIG. 8A
shows table 28 with umbrella hole 27. To secure the fire
receptacle, the hollow tube 17 is inserted into the umbrella hole
of the table and then a nut 26 is used to tighten the fire
receptacle to the table by threadably engaging with the outer
surface of the hollow tube 17. FIG. 8B is a view of the underside
of the table 28 and shows the nut 26 secured to the hollow tube 17.
The nut is tightened against the underside of the table 28. FIG. 9A
shows the nut 26 secured to the hollow tube 17, but not tightened
such that it is in contact with the underside of the table 28 as in
FIG. 8B.
[0053] In this way, the fire receptacle of the present invention is
easily attached to any standard table having an umbrella hole,
unlike prior art devices in this area which require a specialized
table with an internal housing or a large cut out on a table to
mount the fire device within the table. The prior art either
provides i) unitary products which combine the fire bowl/grill with
limited means to remove the fire bowl/grill from the table, or ii)
fire bowl/grills which can be placed on a table but are not
aesthetically pleasing or practical due to various pieces and parts
required and the presence of connection tubes and other attachment
parts that are not hidden.
[0054] Depending on the length of the flexible hose 67, the gas
tank can be hidden in a rolling compartment and placed to the side
of the table and used as an additional counter space for the user.
Alternatively, if there is a gas line nearby, the tubular
connecting segment may be attached to the gas line itself instead
of a stand-alone tank. This attachment mechanism accommodates a
variety of different sized tanks, from one pound to twenty pounds
or more.
[0055] The fire receptacle of the present invention is a removable
device which can be attached, detached and reattached to a variety
of different tables. The device can be removed in two steps--i)
disconnecting the male quick connect fitting 40a from the female
quick connect fitting 40b located at an end of the flexible hose
67, and ii) the simple turning of the nut 26. The fire receptacle
can be re-attached and connected to a gas line by employing similar
steps. That is, inserting the hollow tube 17 into the umbrella hole
of a table and securing the receptacle by engaging the nut 26 with
the outer surface of the tube, and then connecting male quick
connect fitting 40a to female quick connect fitting 40b. FIG. 10
provides an example of quick connect fitting 40 with the male end
40a and female end 40b. The male end is designed to fit within
female end 40b when in an engaged state. FIG. 10 also shows the
threaded end of 40b which is meant to be in direct connection with
a gas hose or gas line 67.
[0056] The mounting mechanism described herein allows the mounting
of the present fire effect receptacle to mount to a variety of
different types of furniture. For example, the receptacle is easily
mounted to any table having an umbrella hole that is constructed
out of a heat safe material, such as a metal or wooden table. The
fire receptacle can also be lined or covered in an insulating
material to facilitate use of the receptacle on plastic furniture
or to simply provide an additional layer of heat protection. An
insulating bowl or dish could be used, for example.
[0057] It is envisioned that this type of mounting mechanism can be
used with any kind of existing furniture, even without a
preexisting umbrella hole. Given that the diameter of the hollow
tube 17 can be quite small, it is possible to integrate this fire
effect receptacle into any furniture either having a preexisting
hole or capable of forming a small hole through one of its
surfaces.
[0058] After the receptacle is mounted on a table and the fuel line
is connected via the connection of quick connect fitting pieces 40a
and 40b, the fire effect receptacle may be turned "on" by turning
on the fuel source, turning the integrated knob 35 to the "on"
position, and thereafter providing a spark at a point near to the
fuel dispersion assembly such as by lighting a match or lighter.
The size of the flame can be controlled by turning the integrated
knob which internally restricts and allows the flow of gas to the
fuel dispersion assembly.
[0059] The flame may appear to burn above the noncombustible media,
such as pebbles, stones, rocks, sand, or glass, which is located
within the internal chamber of the receptacle. This creates a
pleasing effect and can therefore be used ornamentally.
[0060] Ventilation slots 34 a and b are provided on the outside
side walls of the receptacle as shown in FIGS. 2D and 2E. Other
ventilation slots are shown on side walls 69a and 69b. FIG. 6 also
shows ventilation slots 34e-p on the bottom outside surface of the
receptacle. These slots serve to bring in outside air prior to
combustion of the fuel and also to allow smoke to exit the internal
chamber of the receptacle as a safety precaution. The addition of
outside air to the propane line produces a cleaner and more
efficient flame, thereby avoiding a smoky, orange flame which can
be more of a nuisance than a pleasure to the surrounding area.
[0061] In one embodiment, a plate 33 may be placed on top of the
fuel dispersion assembly to partially deflect the flame from
reaching a dangerous height and/or for preventing the flame from
being extinguished by wind. The addition of a plate may be an
important safety feature of the fire receptacle, as shown in FIGS.
3A and 3G.
[0062] An air mixing feature may be incorporated into the
receptacle and above-mentioned gas connections in order achieve an
optimal flame when using propane gas as the fuel source, for
example. The air mixing feature brings in air through openings 46a
and 46b, shown in FIGS. 11-14, and allows air to combine with the
propane before it travels up through the hollow tube. The addition
of outside air to the propane line produces a cleaner and more
efficient flame, thereby avoiding a smoky, orange flame which can
be more of a nuisance than a pleasure to the surrounding area. FIG.
16 depicts another embodiment where an air mixer 48 is provided and
may be connected at any point along the fuel supply line shown in
FIGS. 1-15 to incorporate air into the fuel supply which ultimately
reaches the fuel dispersion assembly 12. Openings 49a, 49b and 49c
are shown which allow air to enter the fuel supply line.
[0063] Shown in FIGS. 11-15 is a close-up view of an embodiment of
the invention using an adjustable valve assembly to control the
amount of fuel entering the fuel dispersion assembly 12. This
embodiment is provided in greater detail in FIGS. 34-48 and will be
discussed in detail later on in this application.
[0064] FIGS. 17-27 are provided as an alternative embodiment of the
inventive fire receptacle. Fire receptacle 100 is substantially
rectangular in shape but it is envisioned that the receptacle may
take on a variety of shapes such as circular, oval, triangular or
square. Within the fire receptacle is internal chamber 111 which
houses a fuel dispersion assembly 112. The fuel dispersion assembly
may be a metal pipe formed into a variety of different shapes, such
as a straight line or rod, a ring or a square, for example. The
fuel dispersion assembly includes a plurality of openings 119a-c
which function to direct the fuel in the desired direction, which
is preferably upwards or sideways such that the flame is directed
away from nearby objects or persons situated around the receptacle.
Shown in FIG. 17 is a fuel dispersion assembly in the form of a
hollow and rigid rod.
[0065] The fuel dispersion assembly 112 includes one or more feet
151 which are designed to be in contact with the floor of the
internal chamber 111 in order to stabilize and position the fuel
dispersion assembly in a substantially upright manner such that
holes 119 are oriented sideways facing or upwards facing. Shown in
FIG. 17 are feet 151a, 151b, and 151c located at three spaced apart
locations along the length of the rod and mounted (such as welded)
to the bottom outside surface of the rod. The fuel dispersion
assembly 112 is preferably hollow to allow for the flow of air and
gas within and up through holes 119.
[0066] The inlet or aperture 125 is shown in FIG. 17 to be at the
bottom surface of the rod and may be positioned anywhere along the
length of the rod. At the location anywhere along the length of the
fuel dispersion assembly, there is a tubular connecting segment
attached or mounted, such as venturi tube 150. For example, the
venturi tube 150 may be mounted by welding to the fuel dispersion
assembly at point 125. This creates an open interior space between
the fuel dispersion assembly and the venturi tube 150 to allow gas
to travel there through. The venturi tube 150 may extend in a
substantially downward or substantially side ways (parallel to the
length of the fuel dispersion assembly) direction and includes tube
inlet 153. The venturi tube has an opening or gap 154 which serves
to allow air to enter the tube and mix with fuel/gas to provide the
flame when a spark is ignited.
[0067] The venturi tube inlet 153 is in removable connection with
gas valve 155. FIG. 18 shows the connection of the gas valve to the
tube inlet 153. The gas valve 155 may be in the form of a ball
valve, butterfly valve, gate valve, needle valve or other type of
valve as is known in the art to precisely actuate gas flow control.
The control knob 156 is attached to the gas valve 155 in a manner
as is known in the art, such as by pressure fitting into the valve
stem 157. When the control knob 156 is pushed in and turned towards
the open position, the valve stem actuates the gas valve to allow
the flow of gas to enter the venturi tube through inlet 153. In one
embodiment, the turning of the knob may ignite a spark which would
pro-duce a flame when combined with the gas or fuel flowing through
the venturi tube, through aperture 125, into hollow rod 112 and out
through one or more holes 119. In another embodiment, the fuel
flows in the manner just described and a spark is provided by the
user by igniting a match or lighter and holding it close to the one
or more holes 119, for example.
[0068] As explained earlier, the control valve regulates the gas
flow to the internal chamber 111. These valves may have a spring
loaded locking feature designed to lock into place when the valve
is in the OFF position. The valve may be depressed by pushing in
the control knob while turning to the ON position.
[0069] The gas valve 155 includes a fuel inlet 158 and outlet 159
which is in connection with venturi tube inlet 153. The fuel inlet
158 of the gas valve may be threadably connected to flexible inlet
pipe 161. The fuel outlet 159 may be threadably connected to a
flexible outlet pipe 162. The flexible inlet pipe 161 is
substantially hollow on the inside and has two ends, a gas inlet
end, 161a and a gas outlet end 161b. The flexible outlet pipe 162
has two ends, a gas inlet end, 162a and a gas outlet end 162b. The
gas outlet end 162b is preferably threadably fastened to the fuel
inlet 153 of the venturi tube. The gas inlet end 162a of the
flexible outlet pipe 162 is preferably threadably fastened to gas
outlet 159 of the gas valve 155. The gas outlet end 161b of the
flexible inlet pipe 161 is preferably threadably fastened to the
gas inlet 158 of the gas valve 155. The gas inlet end 161a of the
flexible inlet pipe 161 is preferably brought through mounting
plate 163, mounting nut 164, and is engaged with quick connecting
fitting 165 which includes a first end 165a and a second end 165b.
The mounting plate preferably includes a mounting end 163a and a
rigid hollow tube threaded end 163b. The flexible inlet pipe 161
and outlet pipe 162 may be constructed of any kind of metal
material, such as stainless steel, copper, aluminum or an alloy
thereof.
[0070] Shown in FIG. 17 is the gas inlet end 161a being capable of
being threadably fastened or engaged with the first end of the
quick connect fitting 165. The quick connect fitting 165 is a male
fitting which is configured to be inserted into and engaged with
the female quick connect fitting 166. The female quick connect
fitting 166 is attached to flexible hose 167 which includes a gas
inlet end 167a and a gas outlet end 167b. A connector handle 168 is
provided to connect the gas tank or other fuel source to the hose
167. The gas tank 115 includes an internal chamber and an outlet as
is known in the art. The gas inlet end 167a of the flexible hose is
configured to engage with the outlet of the gas tank 115 to create
a substantially airtight seal. The gas source is preferably a 5-20
lb. propane gas cylinder.
[0071] An injector 160a or other type of connector shown as 160b
may be used at various places in the assembly, including as a
connecting piece between the gas valve inlet 158 and the outlet end
161b as shown in FIG. 17, or between gas valve outlet 159 and
flexible outlet pipe 162.
[0072] FIGS. 18-20 is a perspective view, side view, and bottom
view of the assembly shown in FIG. 17 with most of the pieces being
assembled, except for the container 101 having internal chamber
111.
[0073] Each of the above-mentioned pieces making up the fire
receptacle 100 and gas connection assembly is preferably
pre-assembled as is shown in FIGS. 18-25, such that during use, the
only steps required are to i) position the fire receptacle on the
top surface of a table 170a such that the rigid hollow tube
threaded end 163b of the mounting plate can be brought through the
umbrella hole 127 of the patio table, ii) secure the mounting nut
164 to the rigid hollow tube threaded end 163b such that the fire
receptacle is secured to the table, and iii) connect the female
quick connect fitting 166 to the male quick connect fitting 165 as
is known to one of ordinary skill in the art, such as tightening
the two fittings together. This procedure allows the fire
receptacle to be quickly and efficiently secured to the table and
the gas line to be quickly and easily connected to the fire
receptacle.
[0074] FIG. 26 shows the underside 170b of a patio table having
umbrella hole 127 and the rigid hollow tube threaded end 163b of
the mounting plate positioned within the umbrella hole. The
mounting end 163a is preferably a rigid piece which is secured to
the underside of the fire receptacle 100. The mounting end 163a may
be screwed into or welded on the underside of the fire receptacle,
for example. The mounting end is preferably a flat piece that is
welded to the rigid hollow tube threaded end 163b, with the
threaded end being substantially tubular in shape with threading on
its outside service. The threaded end may be hollow and is
preferably welded to the mounting end such that the mounting end
and the threaded end form one unitary piece.
[0075] FIG. 27 shows a partial bottom view of the fire receptacle
100 with rigid hollow tube threaded end of the mounting plate 163
being inserted into umbrella hole 127. The top sur-face 170a of the
table is also shown and can be formed of a variety of materials
such as wood, wood composite or aluminum, for example. In use, the
fire receptacle 100 is preconnected to elements 112, 150, and
155-165, with the mounting nut threaded on the rigid hollow tube
threaded end of the mounting plate. Elements 166, 167 and 168 are
also kept assembled and connected to a gas source such that when a
user wishes to use the fire receptacle, he simply connects the
female quick connect fitting 166 to the male fitting 165 and
secures the fire receptacle to a table using the mounting nut. The
quick connect fitting is shown in more detail in FIG. 10 as element
40.
[0076] In an alternative embodiment, the fire receptacle can be
used without the mounting plate on any secure flat surface.
[0077] FIGS. 28-32 depict an alternative embodiment of the
invention. Fire receptacle 200 includes removal side walls 269 a,
b, c and d. These walls may be constructed of frosted glass, clear
glass, stone, and any other suitable material. The walls may serve
to block the flame or sparks from escaping the perimeter of the
fire receptacle 200 and therefore may serve a protective function
to objects and persons in close proximity to the fire
receptacle.
[0078] The gas connection assembly of the alternative embodiment
described in FIGS. 28-32 is similar to the assembly described with
respect to FIGS. 17-25. In use, the user may turn his gas source on
by turning the knob 256. The gas then flows from the gas tank
through the flexible hose 267, then through flexible inlet metal
pipe 261, then through flexible outlet met-al pipe 262, next
through venturi tube 250 opening 225 and is then dispersed within
hollow rod 212 and out through one or more openings 219 a, band c.
The gas inlet end 261a of the flexible inlet metal pipe 261 is
preferably pre-fitted to the first end of the quick connect fitting
265. When the user desires to use fire receptacle 200, he may
connect the quick connect fitting 265 to the quick connect fitting
266 and simply turn on the regulator knob. The quick connect
fitting 265 is a male fitting which is configured to be inserted
into female quick connect fitting 266. The female quick connect
fitting 266 is attached to flexible hose 267 and a connector handle
268 may connect to a fuel source 15 such as a gas tank or other
fuel source, as is shown in FIG. 7.
[0079] FIG. 33 depicts the fire receptacle 200 being inserted into
umbrella hole 227 on a table top surface 270a. This process is
performed in the same manner as described with respect to fire
receptacle 100 shown in FIGS. 17-25. The gas source is preferably a
5-20 lb. propane gas cylinder.
[0080] FIGS. 34-48 depict an alternative embodiment of the
invention having a unique gas system for connecting the fire
receptacle 300 to a 1 lb. propane gas bottle. FIG. 34 depicts fire
receptacle 300 having an internal chamber 311 which houses a fuel
dispersion assembly 312. The fuel dispersion assembly may be a
metal pipe formed into a variety of different shapes, such as a
straight line or rod, a ring or a square, for example. The fuel
dispersion assembly includes a plurality of holes 319a-c which
function to direct the fuel in the desired direction, which is
preferably upwards or sideways such that the flame is directed away
from nearby objects or persons situated around the receptacle.
Shown in FIG. 34 is a fuel dispersion assembly in the form of a
hollow and rigid rod. The fire receptacle 300 may be formed of
steel or another appropriate material for housing fire, such as
stone and/or aluminum.
[0081] The fuel dispersion assembly may include a plate 371 secured
to its top surface which aids in deflecting the direction of the
flame as gas travels out of the plurality of holes 319 a-c. Feet
351a and 351b are secured (for example, by welding) to the bottom
surface of the fuel dispersion assembly 312 to provide the unit
with stability within the internal chamber 311.
[0082] A retaining plate 363 is provided and includes a means for
securing the plate to the bottom of the fire receptacle 300, such
as screw type fasteners 361a and 361b, which are threaded through
apertures, 362a and 362b. Secured to the retaining plate is rigid
hollow tube 366 having threading on its outside surface which is
secured to the retaining plate using one or more screws, shown as
374a and b which may be inserted into holes 373a and 373b of the
retaining plate. The retaining plate also includes an opening 375
which is configured to align with the rigid hollow tube 366. The
fire receptacle 300 includes an opening 370 which is configured to
align with openings 375 and the opening formed within the rigid
hollow tube 366 such that gas can flow through these pieces of the
assembly. Welded to the fuel dispersion assembly 312 is venturi
tube 350 having opening 354 to allow air to mix with fuel to
provide an ideal flame after ignition. The venturi tube is
configured to be inserted through opening 370, opening 375 and
inside the opening created within the rigid hollow tube 366 such
that the opening 354 of the venturi tube is aligned with the
opening 365 of the rigid hollow tube 366. One or more openings may
be provided in the venturi tube and the rigid hollow tube which may
each be aligned together.
[0083] In use as shown in FIGS. 35 and 36, the fire receptacle 300
is pre-assembled such that the end of the venturi tube is inserted
within the rigid hollow tube 366. The venturi tube/rigid hollow
tube combination is inserted through the umbrella hole 327 of the
table and secured to the table using mounting nut 364. The mounting
nut 364 may be engaged around the threading of the outside surface
of the rigid hollow tube 366. The gas valve 356a is provided and
includes an inlet 380 and an outlet 381. The outlet of the gas
valve is in removable connection with the venturi tube 350 and the
inlet of the gas valve is in removable connection with the gas
source, preferably a 1 lb. propane bottle 315, which can be
conveniently suspended underneath the table. Shown in FIG. 35 is
propane bottle 315 having an outlet 316. The gas valve inlet 380 is
configured to engage with propane bottle outlet 316 to create an
airtight connection.
[0084] The gas valve 356a may be in the form of a ball valve,
butterfly valve, gate valve, needle valve or other type of valve as
is known in the art to precisely actuate gas flow control. The
control knob 356b is attached to the gas valve 356a in a manner as
is known in the art, such as by pressure fitting into the valve
stem 357. When the control knob 356 is pushed in and turned towards
the open position, the valve stem actuates the gas valve to allow
the flow of gas to enter the venturi tube. A spark may then be
provided by the user by igniting a match or lighter and holding it
close to the one or more holes 319, for example, to produce a
flame.
[0085] As explained earlier, the gas valve supplies and regulates
the gas flow to the internal chamber 311. These valves may have a
spring loaded locking feature designed to lock into place when the
valve is in the OFF position. The valve may be depressed by pushing
in the control knob while turning to the ON position.
[0086] While several particular forms of the invention have been
illustrated and described, it will be apparent that various
modifications and combinations of the invention detailed in the
text and drawings can be made without departing from the spirit and
scope of the invention. For example, references to materials of
construction, methods of construction, specific dimensions, shapes,
utilities or applications are also not intended to be limiting in
any manner and other materials and dimensions could be substituted
and remain within the spirit and scope of the invention.
Accordingly, it is not intended that the invention be limited,
except as by the appended claims.
* * * * *