U.S. patent application number 16/160844 was filed with the patent office on 2019-04-25 for heater with flame display.
This patent application is currently assigned to WET. The applicant listed for this patent is WET. Invention is credited to James W. Doyle, Mark Fuller, Susan Fuller, Dezso Molnar, Scott Winslow, Riae Yoo.
Application Number | 20190120501 16/160844 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 54834279 |
Filed Date | 2019-04-25 |
![](/patent/app/20190120501/US20190120501A1-20190425-D00000.png)
![](/patent/app/20190120501/US20190120501A1-20190425-D00001.png)
![](/patent/app/20190120501/US20190120501A1-20190425-D00002.png)
![](/patent/app/20190120501/US20190120501A1-20190425-D00003.png)
![](/patent/app/20190120501/US20190120501A1-20190425-D00004.png)
![](/patent/app/20190120501/US20190120501A1-20190425-D00005.png)
![](/patent/app/20190120501/US20190120501A1-20190425-D00006.png)
![](/patent/app/20190120501/US20190120501A1-20190425-D00007.png)
![](/patent/app/20190120501/US20190120501A1-20190425-D00008.png)
![](/patent/app/20190120501/US20190120501A1-20190425-D00009.png)
![](/patent/app/20190120501/US20190120501A1-20190425-D00010.png)
View All Diagrams
United States Patent
Application |
20190120501 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Fuller; Mark ; et
al. |
April 25, 2019 |
Heater with Flame Display
Abstract
A heater with a visual flame display is described. The heater
may include a top portion and a base, separated by concentric
cylinders. The innermost cylinder houses a flame element, which may
be spun into a vortex. The cylinders may be constructed from
transparent materials such that the flame element is visible to an
observer. The base provides heat at or near ground level for
efficient heat distribution.
Inventors: |
Fuller; Mark; (Sun Valley,
CA) ; Fuller; Susan; (Sun Valley, CA) ;
Molnar; Dezso; (Sun Valley, CA) ; Doyle; James
W.; (Sun Valley, CA) ; Yoo; Riae; (Sun Valley,
CA) ; Winslow; Scott; (Sun Valley, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
WET |
Sun Valley |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
WET
Sun Valley
CA
|
Family ID: |
54834279 |
Appl. No.: |
16/160844 |
Filed: |
October 15, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
14736254 |
Jun 10, 2015 |
10101036 |
|
|
16160844 |
|
|
|
|
61010431 |
Jan 7, 2008 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F24C 15/06 20130101;
F24H 3/025 20130101; F24H 9/2085 20130101; Y02B 40/00 20130101;
F24C 3/04 20130101; F24C 3/002 20130101; F24H 9/02 20130101; F24C
3/022 20130101; F24C 1/14 20130101; Y02B 40/166 20130101; F24C
15/002 20130101; F24C 3/082 20130101; F24H 9/0068 20130101; F24C
15/006 20130101; F24H 3/065 20130101 |
International
Class: |
F24C 15/00 20060101
F24C015/00; F24C 3/00 20060101 F24C003/00; F24C 15/06 20060101
F24C015/06; F24H 9/00 20060101 F24H009/00; F24C 1/14 20060101
F24C001/14 |
Claims
1. A heater with a visual flame display, comprising: a base that
includes an ignition chamber to produce a flame and that includes
an exhaust vent to provide heat; a midsection that is attached to
the base and that includes inner and outer walls; and a top section
that is attached to the midsection; wherein the flame extends from
the ignition chamber through the midsection substantially to the
top section; and wherein heat from the flame is captured in the top
section and drawn down to the base for release through the exhaust
vents.
2. The heater of claim 1, wherein the inner and outer walls are
cylinders separated by an annular gap through which heat is
transferred from the top section to the base.
3. The heater of claim 1, wherein the flame element forms a vortex
of fire.
4. The heater of claim 3, wherein the speed of the vortex of fire
is variable.
5. The heater of claim 1, wherein the color of the flame is
variable.
6. The heater of claim 1, wherein the top portion includes one ore
more heat exchangers to capture heat from the flame.
7. The heater of claim 1, wherein the base includes a fan to create
a downward force to draw heat from the top section to the base.
8. The heater of claim 7, wherein the base includes a control unit
to control the speed of the fan.
9. The heater of claim 1, wherein the top section includes an air
inlet opening.
10. The heater of claim 1, wherein the top section includes an
exhaust vent.
11. The heater of claim 10, wherein the top section includes a
circumference and a closed top surface; and wherein the exhaust
vent is on the circumference of the top section.
12. The heater of claim 1, wherein the base further includes a
cabinet for housing a fuel source.
13. The heater of claim 1, wherein the base further includes table
top supported thereby.
14. The heater of claim 1, wherein the base further includes a
system monitor for monitoring a status of the heater and providing
information about the status of the heater to a computer or mobile
device.
15. The heater of claim 1, wherein the base is configured to be
positioned underground.
16. A heater with a visual flame display, comprising: a base that
includes an ignition chamber to produce a flame and a heating
element and exhaust vent to provide heat; a midsection that is
attached to the base and that includes inner and outer walls; and a
top section that is attached to the midsection; and wherein the
flame extends from the ignition chamber through the midsection
substantially to the top section.
17. A heater with a visual flame display, comprising: a first
portion that provides heat to the surrounding area; and a second
portion that provides the visual flame display.
18. The heater of claim 17, wherein the first portion provides heat
laterally to the surrounding area.
19. The heater of claim 17, wherein the second portion is
positioned above the first portion.
20. The heater of claim 17, wherein the appearance of the visual
flame display may be varied.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. Application Ser.
No. 14/736,254, filed on Jun. 10, 2015, which claimed priority to
U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/010,431, filed Jun. 10, 2014.
The foregoing applications are incorporated herein by reference as
if fully set forth herein.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention generally relates to heaters,
including heaters that may warm a surrounding area and provide a
visual flame display, as well as heaters that provide an overall
aesthetic effect.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Various types of heaters that provide heat extracted from
fire or flame have existed for some time. These types of heaters
include gas-burning devices. However, these types of heaters
typically do not visually alter, feature, or display the fire or
flame. And while heating devices that display an actual or
simulated flame may exist, the flame in these devices typically
does not provide significant heat to the surrounding area.
[0004] For example, existing outdoor or patio heaters typically
include a top section which houses a burner encased behind a screen
or perforated metal, through which a flame may be seen and heat
radiates. The burner top section typically burns methane, butane,
propane or similar gas from a fuel source. The flame in these
devices does not form a dramatic visual flame effect, and usually
looks like a mere pilot light.
[0005] In addition, these existing devices do not efficiently
provide heat laterally to the surrounding area because most of the
heat is radiated upward through and around the top portion of the
device. The heat therefore rises or otherwise dissipates without
efficiently heating the area below. As such, existing devices used
by restaurants in outdoor areas only heat the areas immediately
surrounding the device, in an inefficient manner. It is common to
see several such heaters grouped together, because individually,
they do not provide significant heat near the ground where the
people are standing or seated.
[0006] Other types of existing devices may include artificial or
simulated flames, but these devices do not use an actual flame with
combustion providing heat. As another example, simulated flames
have been used in architectural elements such as with indoor or
outdoor torches, but these devices are intended to provide only the
visual effect of flame, and do not provide significant heat for
warming the surrounding area.
[0007] For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,799,727B to Webster entitled
"Flame-Effect Heating Apparatus" discloses a heating device with an
artificial flame. This device emits some heat to the surrounding
area, but the heat is extracted from a hot water source, and not
produced by combustion from an actual flame or fire. In fact, the
source of heat in this device is not the same source that provides
the visual display.
[0008] Similarly, GB 2,488,391 to Charlton & Jenwick entitled
"Heating Apparatus" discloses a device with an artificial flame.
This device is designed for use in homes to provide the sensation
of a traditional wood-burning fireplace, while adhering to
government regulation that place restrictions on wood-burning
fireplaces. However, the artificial flame in this device does not
provide heat by combustion.
[0009] There are also existing devices in which actual flames may
be displayed. However, the visual effect of the flame provided by
these devices is limited. Furthermore, these devices are not
designed to emit significant amounts of heat for efficiently
warming a surrounding area. Instead, these devices are designed to
be used primarily as architectural elements for visual effect. In
these devices, or architectural elements, any heat from the flame
is directed upward into the sky for safety reasons, and away from
people in the vicinity of the heater. As such, these devices
generally do not warm the surrounding area laterally, as most of
the heat travels upward.
[0010] In the existing types of devices described above, any
noxious fumes from combustion are released upward along with most
of the heat. Accordingly, there is no effort made in these devices
to separate out noxious fumes from the heat, which makes sense
given that providing heat is not a primary concern for these
devices.
[0011] Another type of existing device in which a flame is
displayed is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 7,175,424 B2 to Frink, entitled
"Indoor/Outdoor Patio Heater Fire Sculpture." This device uses a
flame as an architectural element, and uses a known method of
deflecting heat from a metal cap situated perpendicular to escaping
gasses. This method of heat distribution is inefficient given that
hot air rises, and heat released from the top of a device will
quickly dissipate in relation to the area below which is typically
the area that needs to be heated. Furthermore, similar to the
devices described above where noxious fumes are not separated from
heat, the Frink device uses annular chambers as insulators, and
releases heat as well as fumes upward, rather than redirecting
captured heat for increasing heat transfer to the surrounding
area.
[0012] DE 202007018478 to Reiger also discloses a device having a
flame element. In this device, the flame is housed in the center of
annular chambers, but the device uses a fan to draw air from the
base and direct it up and out through the top of the device. Again,
there is no separation of heat from noxious fumes and any heat is
also not released at or near ground level so as to efficiently warm
the surrounding area.
[0013] Beyond the foregoing, the flame element in existing
architecturally-oriented devices typically consists of flames that
are relatively static in appearance and cannot be customized.
Accordingly, the visual display provided by existing devices is
limited. While some existing devices may allow the appearance of
the flame to be altered somewhat, these devices typically still do
not use vortex flame to provide a dramatic and customizable display
or to efficiently heat the surrounding area. These devices also
typically release both the usable heat and noxious fumes safely
upward.
[0014] For example, U.S. Pat. 6,186,775 B1 to Jansohn, entitled
"Burner for Operating a Heat Generator" discloses a flame vortex to
increase the density of a combustion chamber. However, the vortex
flame in that device is designed to save fuel, and is not for
purposes of providing a visual display. Indeed, this device is a
passive device that relies on entrained air, rather than using a
blower to spin the flame such that the spinning flame element may
also be customized and/or otherwise provide a dramatic visual
effect.
[0015] EP2098781 entitled "Flame Generating Device" likewise
discloses a passive air entrainment system to create a vortex of
flame, rather than a forced air design that allows the flame to be
modified and customized. In addition, this system is not designed
to heat the surrounding area, or to recapture the updraft of the
heat and redirect it to ground level for efficient
distribution.
[0016] Similarly, CN103196159A, entitled "Grading Trapped Vortex
Annular Combustor" discloses a vortex in high power gas turbines to
increase combustion efficiency, but this device does not
efficiently distribute heat to the surrounding area, while also
providing a visual flame display.
[0017] U.S. Pat. No. 7,097,448 to Chesney, entitled "Vortex Type
Gas Lamp," uses a flame element designed to provide light to a
room, but the flame therein is not used to efficiently heat the
surrounding area. This lamp uses a passive air entrainment flame
generator that expels heat and fumes upward, rather than separating
the fumes from the heat, and redirecting the heat toward the ground
such that it can efficiently heat a room or other surrounding
area.
[0018] Other existing devices that provide heat include
electrically powered radiative heaters. However, such heaters do
not include any visible flame element.
[0019] Beyond the lack of a heater device that efficiently provides
heat and also provides a flame display, there are other drawbacks
to existing heater devices. For example, heater devices that are
mounted to the ground are not portable. Even existing portable
devices may include electric cords for power that may be hazardous
when lying on the ground, especially in crowded areas like
restaurants.
[0020] Furthermore, many existing heaters may become dirty or
damaged after repeated use due to fumes and heat byproducts or
misuse. Many of these heaters are difficult to clean or repair and
are oftentimes continued to be used in restaurants and other
locations despite their dirty and/or scratched and dented
appearance.
[0021] Many existing heaters may also be difficult to start or
operate, and may involve components that break or are unreliable.
This increases cost and maintenance or may result in the heater not
being used.
[0022] In view of the foregoing, there is a need for a heater that
provides visual effects of a flame, while also emitting heat in an
efficient manner to a surrounding area. There is also a need for a
heater that provides heat from the visible flame element for
purposes of efficiency, and separates the heat while allowing
noxious fumes to continue in an upward direction such that they
will not adversely impact the surrounding areas. There is also a
need for a heater that directs heat downward so that it may be
released lower to the ground to increase efficient heat
distribution.
[0023] The longstanding need for heaters that provide significant
heat is confirmed by the fact that existing heaters are used,
albeit inefficiently to heat various locations. For example,
restaurants employ outdoor heaters on patios and other outdoor
dining spaces so that those spaces may be used during evening hours
and cool weather seasons. However, the inadequacy of these types of
heaters to provide heat is confirmed by the fact that oftentimes,
several of these heaters are lined up next to each other because
they individually do not provide much heat. Most of their heat goes
straight up.
[0024] There is also a need for visual displays in heaters to be
customized, or customizable. Existing heaters or architectural
elements with flame displays do not include dramatic flame elements
that may be customized, for example by varying the direction of the
flame vortex, the speed of the vortex and/or the color of the flame
element. And as noted above, these flames do not provide much heat.
Accordingly, there is a need to address these shortcomings and to
also customize the flame such that it may be proportional to the
heat output.
[0025] There is also a need that the size of the device may be
varied, such that it may be used to heat a small studio apartment,
to heat a larger residence or to heat even larger areas such as
outdoor tents or large outdoor spaces. There is also a need for
portable heaters.
[0026] There is also a need for a heater which may be readily
cleaned to address any heat byproducts. There is also a need for a
heater that may be readily started and operated.
[0027] There is also a need for a heater that provides an overall
design and aesthetic that is visually pleasing, and that may
harmoniously reside in various locations. To this end, there is a
need for a heater that may provide the visual effect of a work of
art or that may complement surrounding furniture or the overall
motif of its location.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0028] The heater of the current invention addresses the foregoing
shortcomings and other drawbacks of existing heaters and flame
displays. It also represents a significant advance regarding its
overall design appearance and aesthetic effect.
[0029] In a first aspect of the invention, the manner in which the
heater efficiently provides heat to warm a surrounding area, while
also providing visual flame effects is described. To this end, the
heater may include bottom, middle and top sections. The bottom
section may include a fuel source and a combustion chamber in which
fuel is ignited to create a flame. The middle section may be
transparent to reveal the flame display. The top section may
include one or more heat exchangers to capture heat from the flame.
This heat may be directed downward toward a fan that may be located
in the bottom or base section, so that the heat is released from
the base at or near ground level. Any noxious fumes resulting from
combustion may be separated from the heat, so that the fumes are
directed upward or outward from the top of the heater or otherwise
away from the space to be heated and/or nearby individuals.
[0030] In a preferred embodiment, the flame may be adjustable or
otherwise customizable. For example, the flame may be twirled or
experience other air effects to create a vortex or other
appearance. Furthermore, the direction of the flame vortex may be
varied, as may the speed of the flame in the vortex and/or the
color of the flame. The height and width of the flame vortex may
also be varied or otherwise customized. In this manner, the heater
of the current invention may provide a dramatic aesthetic effect
that conveys mood and/or complements the surrounding area.
[0031] The middle section through which the flame may be displayed
may comprise inner and outer, or twin, cylinders separated by an
annular gap. The inner cylinder may house the flame element, while
the outer cylinder may shield persons and objects in the vicinity
of the heater from the flame. The outer tube may also provide a
shatter- resistant structure to help support the heat exchanger on
top. The annular gap between the cylinders may provide a duct or
passageway for heat captured in the top section to be directed or
drawn downward, such that it may be released through exhaust vents
in the base. Other shapes, including non-curved shapes such as
squares, rectangles or triangles may be used for the inner and
outer tubes.
[0032] In another aspect of the invention, a device that provides
heat in an efficient manner is described. To this end, the device
preferably provides heat from its base at or near ground level.
This is preferred because heated air generally rises, so releasing
the heated air at or near ground level allows more heat to be
laterally or radially distributed as it rises. This expanded
footprint of heat provides more efficient heating of a room or
other surrounding area. This aspect is in sharp contrast to
existing devices that emit heat through their top portions, where
such heat rises above the surrounding area and/or nearby
individuals.
[0033] In this aspect of the current invention, the heater's
increased efficiency preferably meets and/or exceeds legislative
standards for energy efficiency. Accordingly, this aspect of the
invention may result in discounts on utility bills and/or other
cost savings.
[0034] In another aspect of the invention, the use of fans to draw
heat from the flame and deliver it to the surrounding area is
described. To this end, a fan may be located in the base or near
the bottom of the device to draw heated air downward through the
annular gap or other duct and then deliver it to the surrounding
area, for example, through the heat exhaust ports located in the
base. This placement of the fan lowers the overall center of
gravity of the heater, makes the heater more stable, and provides a
view of the flame without electric wires or opaque obstructions
between the viewer and the fire.
[0035] The fan may be an electrically driven axial fan. The fan
preferably operates smoothly and quietly by providing the primary
structural support for the heater, as well as electrical and gas
utilities, through the center hub of the fan. This preferably
allows the fan blades to reach further out towards the dimensions
of the base so as to provide an increased downward force to draw
heat from above. As such, the fan approaches the best performance
for low noise and high flow operation. Alternatively, the fan
blades may extend shy of the heater base so that utilities may be
run in the gap therebetween. The axial flow fan may alternatively
be replaced with a centrifugal fan running along the inside base.
The fan may be belt driven or direct drive. The fan may be
controlled by control circuits to manage fan speed and
direction.
[0036] In another aspect of the invention, the life span of the
heater is preferably increased and its need for maintenance may be
decreased. For example, heat from the fan motor in the base may be
directed outward with the heat from the flame. This may cool the
fan apparatus and lead to longer fan life and better operation, as
well as distribute the heat generated by the electric fan.
[0037] Other aspects of the current invention relating to the base
section are also described. For example, the base section may
include a fuel source, a combustion chamber and exhaust vents to
deliver heated air to the surrounding area. A series of control
circuits and solenoids may manage fuel flow and an ignitor or pilot
light to provide for main burner starts and restarts of the flame.
Air ejectors or inlets may be placed downwind of the fan but prior
to the exhaust ports to add cool air to the hot air stream to
regulate temperature and increase the total flow of warm air
leaving the exhaust ports.
[0038] The exhaust port(s) may distribute heat evenly around the
heater. Alternatively, one or more focused exhaust ports may be
used, or a method of covering parts of the exhaust ports to focus
the heated air in a selected direction may be employed. For
example, doors that may open and close over parts of exhaust vents
22 may be used.
[0039] The fuel source may be either intrinsic or extrinsic. The
fuel may be mixed with chemical elements to create different visual
effects, such as different color effects. The combustion chamber
may be used to create the flame from the fuel mixture.
[0040] Other aspects of the current invention regarding the
heater's top section are also described. The top section may
include a heat exchange cap or housing that contains one or more
heat exchangers that capture heat from the flame, which heat may be
directed downward toward the exhaust vents in the base section.
[0041] The heat exchange cap may also separate fumes of combustion
from the heat, such that any noxious fumes may be dispersed in a
safe manner. For example, the heater may be vented or otherwise
configured such that harmful fumes and/or combustion products are
directed out of the heater's top end, away from the area to be
heated and/or nearby individuals. Alternatively, fumes and
combustion products may be directed out the side of the top
section. At the same time, the captured heat may be directed back
toward the ground via the annular gap or other duct between the
tubes of the middle section.
[0042] The heat exchanger(s) located in the top section may be
configured to run cool, so that leaves, building materials or other
materials that may come into contact with the top surface, may be
shielded from the heat of the flame. This adds to the safety aspect
of the invention.
[0043] In a preferred embodiment, an air-to-air heat exchanger may
be placed in the heat exchanger cap or otherwise above the twin
cylinders of the middle section. Configurations of multiple stacked
air-to-air heat exchangers may also be used. Alternatively, one or
more water filled radiators may be housed in the heat exchanger
cap.
[0044] In another aspect of the invention, additional uses of air
flow are described. For example, the heater may draw in cool air
from the surrounding area into the top section so that it is
heated. More specifically, ambient air may be pulled into the heat
exchangers from a location below the fume exhaust by the draw of
the fan located in the base of the heater. This air may pass
through the small channels of the heat exchanger, transferring the
heat of the flame to the passing air. This air may then be directed
to the gap or duct between the tubes of the middle section and
drawn toward an exhaust port at or near the ground. Ambient air may
also be drawn into the base and mixed with heated air to arrive at
a desired temperature prior to the heated air being emitted through
the exhaust ports.
[0045] In another aspect of the invention, a portable heater is
described. This is in contrast to existing heating devices that are
mounted to a floor or other stationary structure. For example, the
fuel source and other components that provide heat as well as a
visual effect may be contained in the device so that the whole
system may be readily transported.
[0046] To maximize portability of the device, the base section may
house a variety of batteries to power fans and other aspects of the
device. The batteries may eliminate the need for electrical cords,
which may result in hazards. For example, in the restaurant
setting, cords stretching between tables can cause patrons and
employees to trip. The absence of cords improves safety, as well as
allowing users to easily position the device as desired.
[0047] The base section may also house a propane bottle or other
fuel that may be removed or replaced as needed. This increases the
ease of use in addition to increasing the portability of the
device. Alternatively fuel and electricity may be hard-wired to the
device.
[0048] In one embodiment, the portable heater may be mounted as
part of a table, wherein the base is located below the table and
the fire display extends up from the table. In this embodiment, the
base may function as the support for the table.
[0049] As an alternative, the heater may be mounted to or in the
ground or other subterranean mount. In one embodiment, the base
section may be located under ground so that the fire display
extends from the ground level up so that the flame display may be
the main focus. In this embodiment, the heated air may be released
from the ground surrounding the heater or from some other
location.
[0050] In another aspect of the invention, the device may be
operated by remote control for ease of use. The remote control may
ignite the combustion chamber, and dictate the speed and direction
of the vortex fan to alter the visual display.
[0051] In another aspect of the invention suitable for indoor use,
the base may comprise a combustion chamber and vortex inducing fan
and supporting subsystems thereby omitting a fan to draw heated air
down. In this version, reaching from floor to ceiling, the heat
exchanger may be mounted above the ceiling within traditional HVAC
ducting and supported by the building structure. An exhaust stack
may provide for removal of fumes, while airflow through the heat
exchanger running perpendicular to the heater flame may feed warm
air directly into the central heat ducting system, with forced air
pressure being provided by a fan in the heating duct system, rather
than in the base of the fire display unit. In this version,
concentric cylinders may be unnecessary.
[0052] In another aspect of the invention, the heater provides a
pleasing overall design appearance and aesthetic effect. To this
end, the heater of the current invention preferably has a sleek
appearance that may evoke an appearance of art or fine furniture.
The heater may also aesthetically complement the surrounding
furniture and/or motif of its location. The aesthetic effect of the
heater may also be enhanced by the dramatic and variable fire
display referenced above.
[0053] Other aspects of the invention may involve any of the
foregoing in combination with each other.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0054] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a heater having a fire
visual display.
[0055] FIG. 2 is a side partial cross-sectional view of the heater
including the flame element and a depiction of the airflow.
[0056] FIG. 3 is a side partial cross-sectional view of the
heater.
[0057] FIG. 3A is a top view of the heater.
[0058] FIG. 4 is a side partial cross-sectional view of the heater,
showing a fuel source.
[0059] FIG. 5 is a side cross-sectional of the upper portion of the
heater, including a depiction of the flame element and the
airflow.
[0060] FIG. 6 is a side cross-sectional view of the upper portion
of the present invention, including a cross-section of a heat
exchanger cap.
[0061] FIG. 7 is a side cross-sectional view of the base of the
heater, including a base fan.
[0062] FIG. 8 shows an air intake in the present invention,
including a mechanical plate that may vary the amount of air drawn
into the vortex-inducing fan.
[0063] FIG. 9 shows an embodiment of the heater including a visible
flame vortex.
[0064] FIG. 10 shows an alternate embodiment of the heater in which
water-filled heat exchangers are placed in the middle portion of
the heater.
[0065] FIG. 11 shows an alternate embodiment of the heater
including an air-filled heat exchanger.
[0066] FIG. 12 shows an alternate embodiment of the heater
including multiple air- filled heat exchangers stacked and attached
to a common manifold. Positive pressure airflow is pumped up to the
heat exchangers with a fan creating a forced-air heating system
that pushes hot air downward while allowing exhaust gases to
continue upward unaffected.
[0067] FIG. 13 shows a top heat cap stack of the heater. Heat
exchange equipment may be installed in a casing that functions as a
plenum chamber, allowing exhaust fumes to exit the top of the stack
while inhaling clean air and directing heated air toward the base
through the gap between transparent tubes.
[0068] FIG. 14 shows a top section of a heater with a dedicated air
gap inlet.
[0069] FIG. 15 shows a top section of a heater with a dedicated air
gap inlet.
[0070] FIG. 16 shows a perforated outer wall of a top section.
[0071] FIG. 17 shows an alternate embodiment of the heater that may
be suited for permanent outdoor installations.
[0072] FIG. 17A shows the general operation of the heater of FIG.
17 that may be suited for permanent outdoor installations.
[0073] FIG. 18 shows another alternate embodiment of the heater
that may be suited for permanent outdoor installations.
[0074] FIG. 19 shows another alternate embodiment of the heater
that may be suited for permanent outdoor installations.
[0075] FIG. 20 shows another alternate embodiment of the heater
that may be suited for permanent outdoor installations.
[0076] FIG. 21 shows another alternate embodiment of the heater
that may be suited for portable outdoor use.
[0077] FIG. 22 shows another view of the heater of FIG. 22 that may
be suited for portable outdoor use.
[0078] FIGS. 23A and B show another alternate embodiment of the
heater that may be suited for portable outdoor use.
[0079] FIGS. 24A and B show another alternate embodiment of the
heater that may be suited for portable outdoor use.
[0080] FIGS. 25A and B show another alternate embodiment of the
heater that may be suited for portable outdoor use.
[0081] FIGS. 26A and B show another alternate embodiment of the
heater that may be suited for portable outdoor use.
[0082] FIGS. 27A and B show another alternate embodiment of the
heater that may be suited for portable outdoor use.
[0083] FIGS. 28A and B show another alternate embodiment of the
heater that may be suited for portable outdoor use.
[0084] FIG. 29 shows another alternate embodiment of the heater
that may be suitable for indoor use.
[0085] FIG. 30 shows another alternate embodiment of the heater
that may be suitable for indoor use.
[0086] FIG. 30A shows another alternate embodiment of the heater
that may be suitable for indoor use.
[0087] FIG. 31 shows a variety of different fire vortices or
expressions that may be created by the heater.
[0088] FIGS. 32A and 32B show different fire vortices or
expressions that may be created by different embodiments of the
heater.
[0089] FIG. 33 shows a perspective view of an alternate embodiment
of the heater with a cleaning apparatus.
[0090] FIG. 34 shows another perspective view of the heater of FIG.
33 with the cleaning apparatus in use.
[0091] FIG. 35 shows a top view of the heater of FIG. 33.
[0092] FIG. 36 shows another alternate embodiment of the heater
with an umbrella attachment.
[0093] FIG. 37 shows a base for a heater in accordance with various
aspects of the invention.
[0094] FIG. 38 shows another view of the base of FIG. 37.
[0095] FIG. 39 shows another view of the base of FIG. 37.
[0096] FIG. 40 shows another view of the base of FIG. 37.
[0097] FIG. 41 shows another view of the base of FIG. 37.
[0098] FIG. 42 shows another view of the base of FIG. 37.
[0099] FIG. 43 shows another view of the base of FIG. 37.
[0100] FIGS. 44-49 show screen shots of a mobile application
illustrating remote operation of a heater via mobile device.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0101] Preferred embodiments of heater 10 of the current invention
and related items are now described. In general, heater 10 may
efficiently provide heat to warm a surrounding area and also
provide a visual feature of a flame, such as a flame or fire vortex
or expression. In this manner, heater 10 may uniquely serve both
the utilitarian function of providing heat, as well as the
aesthetic function of providing a dynamic visual display that
enhances its location. As discussed in more detail below, the
overall design of heater 10 itself may also be aesthetically unique
and significant.
[0102] It is preferred that heater 10 provides a significant amount
of heat to warm various types of surrounding areas such as rooms,
apartments, other housing or business locations, outdoor locations
and other areas. It is also preferred that the heat provided by
heater 10 may be varied in intensity and the direction(s) at which
heat is provided to suit different areas to be heated. Similarly,
the flame vortex may be adjusted to provide different appearances,
moods and expressions. In this manner, the vortex may be customized
according to the user's preferences, to match the intensity of heat
provided by heater 10, to match a desired mood, to complement the
motif of its surroundings or otherwise.
[0103] It is also preferred that heater 10 is versatile. For
example, it may be portable so that it may heat different
surrounding areas. Any noxious fumes from the combustion associated
with the vortex flame may be directed away, e.g. through the top or
side of its upper section. Heater 10 may also be remotely
controlled, such as by a wall switch or by a mobile app for a
user's cell phone, tablet or other mobile or remote device.
[0104] Heater 10 of the current invention is now described with
reference to the figures. Components appearing in more than one
figure bear the same or similar reference numerals.
[0105] The general operation of heater 10 is first described with
reference to FIGS. 1-4. As shown in FIG. 1, heater 10 may include
base or base section 20, midsection 50 and top section 80. Though
FIG. 1 shows heater 10 as being cylindrical, other shapes,
including non-curved shapes, may be used. Furthermore, the relative
dimensions of base 20, midsection 50 and top section 80 may vary.
In a preferred embodiment, however, base, mid and top sections 20,
50, 80 may be similarly shaped and dimensioned to provide a sleek
appearance. It is preferred that midsection 50 is clear or
transparent, or has some amount of transparency, e.g., lightly
colored, so that the flame display is visible.
[0106] As shown in FIGS. 2-4, base 20 may generally include
pedestal 26 and cabinet or base tube or cylinder 27 that may in
turn contain various components. Base 20 may include exhaust
outlet(s) 22 formed between pedestal 26 and cabinet 27 to provide
heated air to the surrounding area. Base 20 may also include
combustion chamber 24. As shown in FIG. 4, base 20 may include an
extended pedestal 26 that may contain a fuel source, such as
portable gas tank 28. Fuel from the fuel source may be fed to
combustion chamber 24 where it may be combined with air and ignited
to create combustion in base 20. The resulting flame may rise so
that it is visible in midsection 50. As shown in FIG. 7, vortex fan
70 may also be positioned in base 20 to provide rotation to swirl
the flame into flame or fire vortex or expression 51 as the flames
rise through midsection 50.
[0107] As shown in FIG. 1, midsection 50 may include inner cylinder
52 and outer cylinder 54 that may be separated by annular gap 56.
Flame vortex 51 is generally contained within inner cylinder 52,
and as the flame continues upward through midsection 50, it
preferably provides a dramatic visual display or expression that
may be adjusted by the user. Vortex flame 51 and its associated
heat and other combustion products such as fumes may then enter top
section 80.
[0108] Heat generated from the flame may be captured by one or more
heat exchangers located in top portion 80. Air may be forced to
flow through top portion 80, which air may capture heat from the
heat exchangers. This heated air may be drawn downward through
annular gap 56 of midsection 50 and into base 20. More
specifically, fan assembly 30 in base 20 may draw heat downward
from top section 80 through annular gap 56 of midsection 50. The
heat may then enter base 20 where it may be emitted through exhaust
vents 22 at or near ground level. In this manner, heat is
efficiently provided to the surrounding area, in that the heat is
provided at or near ground level and may be laterally or radially
distributed over a larger footprint or area as it rises in the
surrounding area. This is in contrast to existing heaters that
provide heat at some distance above the ground only to have the
heat rise and dissipate without achieving any significant heating
of the surrounding area.
[0109] As noted above, top section 80 may include one or more heat
exchangers that capture the heat from flame vortex 51. However, it
is also preferred that any noxious fumes or other undesirable
combustion products are separated from the captured heat and are
directed upward or outward, away from persons nearby.
[0110] The overall appearance of heater 10 is now further described
with reference to FIG. 1. The relative heights and other dimensions
of each of the sections 20, 50, 80 may vary, as may the overall
height and width of heater 10. For example, heater 10 may generally
be smaller when used to heat smaller areas such as studio
apartments. Larger dimensions may be used to heat larger areas.
[0111] As shown, base 20 and top section 80 may generally be opaque
so as to enclose the components housed therein. The finish used for
base 20 and top section 80 may vary to suit the surrounding area to
be heated. To this end, heater 10 may be configured to match other
furniture or decor in a residence or business. For example, base
and top sections 20, 80 may be a certain color to match surrounding
decor. As another example, for indoor or outdoor uses, base 20 and
top section 80 may be stainless steel or brushed aluminum or other
metallic finish. Alternatively, for a more industrial look, base 20
and/or top section 80 may be transparent so that their components
are visible.
[0112] Though heater 10 in FIG. 1 is cylindrical, other shapes may
be used. For example, heater 10 may be shaped to have a square,
rectangular, triangular or other shaped cross section. In this
configuration, midsection 50 may include inner and outer tubes
having a square or other shaped cross section with an annular gap
between them. The shape of heater 10 may be configured to match
furniture in the space to be heated and/or to address other design
considerations. Furthermore, base 20, midsection 50 and top section
80 may have different cross sectional shapes and need not all be
cylindrical or have other matching cross sectional shapes. However,
in a preferred embodiment, it is preferred that base, mid and top
sections 20, 50, 80 are similarly configured to provide a sleek
appearance and aesthetic effect.
[0113] As noted above, midsection 50 is preferably clear or
generally transparent so that flame vortex 51 is visible.
Midsection 50 may be clear, tinted or some other color. Midsection
50 may also be configured to become opaque and transparent as
desired by the user. As discussed in more detail below, the color,
speed, direction and other characteristics of flame vortex 51 may
be adjusted to suit different moods or to better match the area in
which it is located.
[0114] In sum, heater 10 may serve the utilitarian function of
providing heat, while also serving the aesthetic effect of
providing an adjustable flame display. Furthermore, the appearance
of heater 10 may also provide an aesthetic effect, akin to a unique
piece of furniture or other design feature of the space in which it
is located.
[0115] Base section 20 and its components are now further described
with reference to FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 7. As shown in FIG. 1, base
20 may include pedestal 26 and base tube or cabinet 27. These
components may be attached together to form a closed cabinet which
may house various components described below. The closed nature of
the cabinet may contribute to the aesthetic appeal of heater 10.
Base 20 may be cylindrical, as shown in FIG. 1, but other shapes
are also contemplated such as square, rectangular, triangular,
elliptical or other shapes or combinations of shapes. The outer
surface of base 20 may be customized with a variety of finishes in
order to complement the surrounding decor and/or create a
particular atmosphere.
[0116] As shown, pedestal 26 may extend up into cabinet or base
tube 27. Pedestal 26 and cabinet 27 may also be separated by a gap,
thereby forming exhaust vent 22, to allow heated air to be
distributed at or near ground level. Other types of exhaust vents
to provide heated air may also be used. In other embodiments,
heated air may be provided above ground level, but in general, it
is preferred that heated air be released at a lower height to take
advantage of the heating efficiency associated with heated air
rising in the surrounding area. In this manner, more heat may be
laterally or radially distributed over a larger area as it rises.
This is in sharp contrast to existing devices that provide heat at
or near the top of the device.
[0117] Pedestal 26 may itself include a base or lower portion 26a
which may rest on the ground. It is preferred that pedestal lower
portion 26a have sufficient width to stably support heater 10.
Pedestal lower portion or pedestal base 26a may also include legs
(not shown) that extend radially outward to provide increased
stability. Lower portion 26a may also be square or otherwise have a
larger footprint. In other embodiments described later, heater 10
may be implanted in the ground such that base 20 may generally be
subterranean.
[0118] Further up, pedestal 26 may include vent portion 26b which
may be curved to help direct heated air out of base 20 and into the
surrounding area. As shown in FIGS. 2, 3, 4 and 7, the curve of
vent portion 26b may be concave, though other profiles may be used,
including non-curved profiles. It is preferred that the profile of
vent portion provide for the laminar flow of the heated air to
increase overall heater efficiency. Vent portion 26b may be
attached to pedestal base portion 26a or may be contiguous
therewith.
[0119] Further up, pedestal 26 may also include support or
structural portion 26c which may be cylindrical and which may be
attached to vent portion 26b. Structural portion 26c may also be
secured to cabinet 27 to form base 20. For example, support section
26c may engage a corresponding support structure (not shown) formed
in the interior of cabinet 27. Besides supporting cabinet 27 and
heater 10, support section 26c may also serve as the support or
axle around which fan assembly 30 rotates.
[0120] In a preferred embodiment, support 26c may be cylindrical
having walls that are strong enough to stably support heater 10. In
this embodiment, it is preferred that support section 26c have a
sufficient diameter to allow the passage of services such as fuel
lines, injectors and/or other utilities within its diameter. And as
discussed further below, the dimensions of support 26c preferably
allow the blades of fan assembly 30 to extend further out towards
the outer dimensions of cabinet 27. Alternative support structures
may be used to support mud and top sections 50, 80 as discussed
later.
[0121] The pedestal base, venting and structural sections 26a, 26b,
26c of pedestal 26 may be welded together or may be attached to
each other with nuts and bolts or other suitable fasteners.
Alternatively, these sections may be contiguously formed.
[0122] The height of base 20 may be varied in order to accommodate
different uses for the heater, as well as the components contained
therein. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, pedestal 26 of base 20
may include fuel source 28. In this configuration, pedestal 26 and
base 20 may be taller to accommodate fuel source 28. As an example,
base 20 may be 18'' tall, though other smaller or larger heights
may be used and the invention is not limited to this example.
Pedestal 26 may also house a battery to provide power for any
electrical functions that may be included in heater 10, e.g.,
lighting and the like.
[0123] In this embodiment, pedestal base 26a may include a door
through which replacement gas tanks or other fuel sources and/or
batteries may be changed as necessary. An advantage of this
embodiment is that heater 10 may be self-contained and be
transported without the need to consider fuel lines and electrical
cords.
[0124] Alternatively, as shown in FIGS. 2, 3 and 7, pedestal base
26a need not contain a fuel source and/or battery, and instead,
fuel and electricity may be hard-wired to heater 10. In this
embodiment, as best shown in FIG. 7, fuel may be provided from a
remote fuel source 28 (not shown), and pedestal base 26a may
include inlet port 41a to accept a fuel line such as gas line 41
that may provide fuel to heater 10. Fuel line 41 may include main
fuel valve 49 that may serve to close or open the fuel supply.
Pedestal base 26a may also include outlet 39a into which electrical
line 39 may be plugged to provide power for lighting, motors and/or
other electrical functions. It is preferred that electrical line 39
may simply plug into a standard wall outlet. This embodiment of
heater 10 is also portable in that it may be relocated by simply
disconnecting any utility lines.
[0125] In one embodiment the utilities may come up from a floor and
engage the bottom of pedestal portion 26a. Alternatively, the
utilities may engage the sides of pedestal portion 26a.
[0126] As also shown in FIG. 7, pedestal 26 may also contain other
components. For example, pedestal 26 may include sequence switches
and relays unit 42 which may generally serve as a control unit.
Control unit 42 may transmit electrical signals through base 20 to
various components and at various times to provide desired
functions. For example, switches and relays unit 42 may be
connected to fan speed control unit 44 that may control fan
assembly 30. Control unit 42 may also be used to turn heater 10 on
and off, customize flame 51 and provide other functions. To provide
these functions, sequence switches and relays unit 42 may include
suitable memory and other electronics.
[0127] Pedestal 26 may also include high voltage transformer 46,
fuel control valve 48, chemical injector 43, pilot light valve 45
and their associated electrical lines. Transformer 46 may step down
the incoming voltage for transmission through heater 10. Fuel
control valve may control the amount of fuel provided for
combustion. Chemical injector 43 may serve to add chemical(s) to
the fuel to be combusted to enhance combustion, to change the color
of flame 51 and/or otherwise vary the visual effects provided by
vortex flame 51. As shown, these components may be housed in
pedestal base 26a at a location near the ground. This preferably
contributes to a lower center of gravity and overall stability of
heater 10. Alternatively, these components may be located in other
suitable locations. Fuel line 41 may also extend to pedestal base
26a en route to combustion chamber 24 discussed later.
[0128] Pedestal 26 may also include pilot light valve 45 located in
its vent portion 26b. Pilot light valve 45 may control an igniter
or a pilot flame to turn heater 10 on and off. As also shown in
FIG. 7, vent portion 26b may also contain wiring to support the
foregoing components. It is preferred that this wiring pass through
the middle of vent and structural sections 26b, 26c, i.e., in what
may form the axle for fan 30. This preferably avoids stray wires
that may interfere with fan 30 and/or may become too hot if
subjected to heated air.
[0129] Base 20 may include an air intake (shown in FIGS. 17 and
17A), which may pull fresh air into base 20 to facilitate
combustion or to help vortex fan 70 create flame vortex 51 as
discussed below. Base 20 may further house fan assembly 30 to draw
heated air downward through heater 10 and release it to the
exterior via vents 22 at or near ground level. Fresh air intake(s)
may be located between fan assembly 30 and vents 22 so that cool
ambient air may be mixed with heated air to achieve a desired
overall temperature. To this end, thermistors or other temperature
sensing units may be placed in base 20 or other locations in heater
10 to provide feedback and temperature control. For example, they
may be placed at the exit of vents 22 to monitor the temperature of
the heated air being provided to the surrounding area.
Alternatively, they may be located elsewhere to monitor the
temperature of different sections of heater 10 for safety and
efficiency purposes.
[0130] The manners in which fuel may be combusted and flame 51 may
be created are now further described with reference to FIG. 7. Base
cylinder or cabinet 27 may include combustion chamber 24 in which
the fuel is ignited to provide a flame or fire. Combustion chamber
24 may include cylindrical wall 24a and chamber bottom 24b though
chamber 24 may assume other shapes. Combustion chamber 24 may be
formed contiguously to the interior of base cabinet 27 or may be
attached thereto. It is preferred that the walls of combustion
chamber 24 not conduct excessive heat to their outer surfaces to
avoid overheating other components located within base 20.
[0131] Various components may protrude through chamber bottom 24b.
For example, fuel line 41 may extend through base support section
26c and into combustion chamber 24. Fuel line 41 may conclude with
fuel injector 36 which dispenses fuel for combustion in chamber
24.
[0132] Spark igniter 34 may also protrude through combustion
chamber bottom 24b, and may ignite the fuel injected by fuel
injector 36. Pilot fuel injector 47 may also protrude into
combustion chamber 24 and may inject pilot fuel into chamber 24.
Though these components are shown as protruding through chamber
bottom 24b, they may enter chamber 24 through walls 24a or other
suitable locations. In any event, after the fuel is ignited in
combustion chamber 24, a flame or fire is provided that may rise
into midsection 50.
[0133] The manner in which chemical additives may be added to the
fuel is now further described. Chemicals may be added to the fuel
by chemical injector 43. The fuel and additives may be mixed
together and released into a combustion chamber to create a flame.
The fuel may be injected with various chemicals to customize the
visual display. For example, chemicals may be added to adjust the
color of the flame. Such chemicals may be housed in chemical
injector 43. The fuel and chemicals may be released into combustion
chamber 24 via control valve 48 which may be located downstream
from chemical injector 43. To provide multiple effects to flame 51,
different chemicals may be provided by multiple chemical injectors
43, which may be controlled by control unit 42. Varying the color
of flame vortex 51 may provide aesthetic benefits to fit a desired
mood or complement the heater's surroundings.
[0134] The components discussed above in connection with providing
fuel and chemicals into combustion chamber 24 may also be used in
the embodiment shown in FIG. 4 which includes the fuel source 26 in
base 20. With this embodiment, these components may generally be
located between gas bottle 28 and combustion chamber 24.
[0135] The manner in which the flame may be configured as a
swirling vortex is now further described with reference to FIGS. 2,
7, 8, 31, and 32A-B. In general, combustion chamber 24 may include
vortex air slots 35 which allow air to mix with the fuel (as well
as chemical additives) for combustion. Vortex fan 70 may blow air
into the fuel mixture through vortex air slots 35. Vortex fan 70
may be powered by a vortex fan motor 72. Fan 70 may spin the air
and fuel as they combust. As the resulting flame rises from
combustion chamber 24 to midsection 50, the flame preferably
twirls. As such, flame or fire vortex 51 is created.
[0136] The appearance of flame vortex 51 may be controlled and/or
customized. For example, the size of vortex air slot 35 may be
varied while the fan speed remains constant in order to vary the
speed of rotation of flame vortex 51. As shown in FIG. 8, a
mechanical plate may be moved to open or close slot 35 to vary the
amount of air delivered to combustion chamber 24. Alternatively,
the speed of vortex flame 51 may vary depending on the speed of fan
70. With either type of flame control, the speed of vortex fan 70
and motor 72 may be controlled by fan speed control unit 44, which
may in turn be controlled by control unit 42. As shown, electrical
lines may couple fan speed control 44 to fan motor 72. As mentioned
above, it is preferred that these electrical lines pass through the
center of fan assembly 30, i.e., through structural support section
26c.
[0137] When vortex fan 70 is spinning rapidly, a tight and fast
moving vortex may be created. As the fan is slowed, the flame may
spread out and spin at a lower rate. Vortex fan 70 may have a range
of speeds, and may also be reversible, such that the direction of
flame vortex 51 may be reversed. The gas output may also be varied
to produce different expressions. This may occur through solenoids
that may be used to control the flow of gas. To this end,
increasing gas flow may generally increase the amount of flame in
vortex 51 and/or may increase its height. FIG. 31 illustrates a
variety of different flame vortices 51 that may be achieved by
adjusting the speed of vortex fan 70 and/or gas output through gas
line 41 and fuel injector 36.
[0138] The flame vortex 51 may also be modified to extend the run
time of the available fuel source and/or to provide additional
visual effects or expressions. As shown in FIG. 32A, heater 10 and
midsection 50 may include an additional innermost cylinder or tube
52a having a smaller circumference than inner cylinder 52 and outer
cylinder 54. The flame vortex 51 may spin around the outside of
innermost cylinder 52a, thereby allowing a smaller flame vortex 51
to appear larger while advantageously using relatively less fuel.
In this manner, the visual spiral of flame vortex 51 may also be
increased since the center will be hollow.
[0139] Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 32B, multiple smaller jets
such as multiple fuel injectors 36 may be utilized to create a
plurality of smaller flame vortices 51a, 51b that may appear to
spin, or dance, around each other. In one embodiment, for example,
multiple fuel injectors 36 may feed combustion chamber 24 in a
spaced apart arrangement whereby each injector 36 may result in a
separate fire vortex 51a, 51b, etc. Alternatively, several
injectors 36 may be located close together to provide a single fire
vortex, and another group of injectors may be spaced close
together, though at some distance from the first group, to provide
a second fire vortex. In this manner, stronger but still separate
fire vortices 51a, 51b may be created. Additional groups of
injectors may provide additional fire vortices.
[0140] Various visual effects may be provided by separate multiple
flame vortices. For example, they may be sequentially turned off
and on, they may be colored differently and their expressions may
vary by changing the gas flow. And if each separate individual
injector or each separate group of injectors has a separate vortex
fan 70, another dimension of varying the expressions is added.
[0141] Further, the appearance of flame vortex 51, or multiple
flame vortices 51, may be adjusted to convey different moods and/or
aesthetic effects. For example, a chemical additive may be added to
the fuel when flame vortex 51 reaches a certain speed. In this
manner, for example, flame vortex 51 may be red when spinning
quickly to signify increased intensity. If flame vortex 51 is
slowed, the red additive may be deleted and/or another softer
color, e.g., yellow may be injected into the fuel to convey a
softer appearance. The control of all the foregoing may be
implemented by control unit or sequence switches and relay unit 42.
Control unit may be programmed so that it provides any number of
preprogrammed adjustments to flame vortex 51 or vortices 51. As
such, heater 10 preferably serves a significant aesthetic function
while also providing heat.
[0142] In any event, flame vortex 51 may rise up through midsection
50 to top section 80. At this point, heat may be captured and
directed downward through annular gap 56 back down to base 20. Fan
assembly 30 and the manner in which it draws heat down to base 20
and exhausts heated air to the surrounding area is now further
described with reference to FIGS. 1-4 and 7.
[0143] Fan assembly 30 may be an axial flow fan with rotating
blades 40 that may draw heated air from the flame downward through
annular gap 56 for release through vents 22 at or near ground
level. This efficient release of heat is in sharp contrast to
existing heater devices that release heat and exhaust upward,
rather than delivering heat through lower exhaust vents. Locating
fan 30 in base 20 is also preferred because this relatively low
position also contributes to lower center of gravity and overall
stability of heater 10.
[0144] Locating fan 30 in base 20 also provides that the view of
flame 51 in section 50 is not obstructed by electric wires or
opaque obstructions between the viewer and fire 51. This also
facilitates the overall sleek appearance of heater 10.
[0145] It is preferred that a single heated air fan 30 sufficiently
draws heated air down for release. This preferably allows quiet and
energy efficient operation, as well as a reduced number of moving
parts for maintenance purposes. Fan assembly 30 may be powered by
fan motor 38 which drives a pulley that is coupled to propeller or
blade assembly 40 by fan belt 31. A direct drive fan without a belt
may also be used as discussed later. Fan blades 40 may be rotatably
mounted to support section 26c of pedestal 26. To this end,
suitable bearings may be located between support 26c and propeller
40.
[0146] Fan assembly 30 may operate smoothly and quietly given that
its primary structural support, as well as all of the electrical
and gas utilities, may be located through the center hub of the fan
as depicted in FIG. 7. A central location of fan 30 also allows the
fan propeller blades 40 to reach the maximum diameter within the
restriction of the base 20. This allows blades 40 to be more
accurately positioned below annular gap 56 to increase or maximize
the downward force to draw heat down. As such, fan 30 approaches
the best performance for low noise and high flow operation. Fan 30
may alternatively be replaced with a centrifugal fan that may run
along the inside of base 20.
[0147] As shown in FIG. 7, blades 40 may be configured to provide a
downward drawing force. In the embodiment of FIG. 7, blades 40 may
rotate counterclockwise when viewed from above. The angle and
curvature of blades 40 thus provide a downward force. The number of
blades, as well as their shape, may be varied to accommodate
differently sized heaters 10. Furthermore, the direction of
rotation of fan blade 40 may rotate clockwise and their angle and
curvature may also be varied.
[0148] As discussed in more detail later in connection with top
section 80, the downward drawing force provided by blades 40
preferably extends through annular gap 56 and into top section 80.
At this point, this force serves to draw ambient air into top
section 80 and past the heat exchangers so that the ambient air is
heated. This heated air is then drawn from top section 80, down
annular gap 56 and into base 20 where it may be vented to the
surrounding area.
[0149] Besides drawing heated air from top section 80 and through
midsection 50, fan assembly also directs the heated air out exhaust
vents 22. As noted above, vents 22 may be configured as the curved
profile of vent portion 26b of pedestal 26. It is preferred that
the profile of vent portion 26b and the speed of the exhausted
heated air work together so that the heated air is provided to the
surrounding area in a laminar flow fashion. This in turn allows the
heat to be more efficiently distributed to the surrounding
area.
[0150] The exhausted heat may also include heat generated by vortex
fan motor 72, fan motor 38 and/or fan belt 31. As such, the overall
heat provided by heater 10 may be increased by the heat generated
by motor 38 and/or belt 31. Directing the heat generated by these
moving parts away may allow them to operate at lower temperatures
which preferably reduces wear and decreases maintenance. The
airflow through base 20 may also serve to transport away heat
generated by electrical components such as by control unit 42. This
preferably increases the overall life of heater 10.
[0151] Base 20 may also include one or more heat exchangers to
facilitate the movement of heated air through exhaust vents 22. The
type of heat exchangers used and the manner in which they may be
arranged may vary. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the heat
exchangers may comprise one or more water-filled radiators.
Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 11, a single air-filled heat
exchanger, such as a turbocharger intercooler, may be used in place
of the water units.
[0152] FIG. 9 depicts an embodiment in which two heat exchangers
are placed below the base tube or cabinet 27, such that heat may be
released at or near ground level. FIG. 12 depicts an alternate
embodiment in which three air-filled heat exchangers are stacked
and attached to a common manifold.
[0153] Where one or more heat exchangers located in base 20 are
used, fan 40 may be positioned to draw air from these heat
exchangers and blow heated air outward through exhaust vent 22. As
such, the use of heat exchangers in base 20 may contribute to the
amount of heated air provided by heater 10.
[0154] The foregoing features may generally contribute to an
increased footprint of heat and increased heating efficiency
provided by heater 10. As noted above, locating heat exhaust vents
22 at or near ground level allows the heat to laterally or radially
spread out over a larger footprint or area as the heat rises.
Furthermore, the curvature of vent portion 26b and the rate at
which the heat is directed out of vents 22 preferably helps direct
the heated air over a larger area. The amount of heat distributed
and the area which receives heat may also be increased due to
distribution of heat generated by internal components, heat
exchangers and other means as described above and herein. As such,
heater 10 may efficiently heat various sized indoor and outdoor
locations.
[0155] Middle or midsection 50 is now further described with
reference to FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 4, 7 and 10. As discussed above, middle
section 50 provides the visible display feature of heater 10, and
also provides the conduit or passageway of annular gap 56, which
allows heat from flame vortex 51 to be directed downward.
[0156] As shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 3 and 4, middle section 50 may
include concentric cylinders 52, 54 separated by annular gap 56. In
the embodiment of FIG. 32A, midsection 50 may also include
innermost cylinder 52A. Midsection 50 may be located on top of base
20. Cylinders 52, 54 (and innermost cylinder 52A when included)
preferably comprise lightweight material so as to avoid making
heater 10 top heavy. Midsection 50 may be attached to base 20 by
suitable means such as welds, nuts and bolts, brackets or other
fasteners so that heater 10 is stably assembled. Inner and outer
cylinders 52, 54 (and innermost cylinder 52A when included) may
also be attached together so that they may be mounted to base 20 as
a unit. In a preferred embodiment, midsection 50 may be removed
from base 20, and inner and outer cylinders 52, 54 (and innermost
cylinder 52A when included) may be detached from each other, for
cleaning or other maintenance purposes from time to time. Alternate
cleaning methods and related items are discussed later.
[0157] It is preferred that the top of base 20 include an opening
that corresponds to the bottom of annular gap 56 to receive the
downwardly-directed heated air. For example, the top of base
cabinet or base tube 27 may include an opening that
circumferentially extends about its periphery. A filter (not shown)
may be located at the top of base 20 to filter any contaminants
that may have been directed downward with the captured heat through
annular gap 56.
[0158] The height of cylinders 52, 54 may be varied. For example,
cylinders 52, 54 may be approximately 60 inches tall, though other
lengths may be used depending on the amount of heat to be provided
and the size of the space in which heater 10 may be located. The
dimensions of annular gap 56 may also vary to provide a suitably
sized conduit for the heated air. These dimensions may, for example
be increased for larger heaters 10 that are used to heat larger
surrounding areas.
[0159] Inner cylinder 52 may generally contain flame vortex 51, and
may comprise a material that conducts heat such as a
low-thermal-expansion borosilicate glass or another type of glass.
In a preferred embodiment, PYREX may be used. Conductive materials
are preferred because radially directed heat from vortex flame 51
may pass through the wall of inner cylinder 52 thereby heating the
outer surface of inner cylinder 52 and contributing to the heat in
annular gap 56. This may in turn increase the amount of heat to be
delivered by midsection 50 to base 20 for release to the
surrounding area. The material comprising inner cylinder 52 is
preferably transparent so that vortex flame 51 may be viewed. When
included, as in the embodiment of FIG. 32A, the foregoing may
generally apply to innermost cylinder 52A.
[0160] Outer cylinder 54 may have a larger diameter than inner
cylinder 52. Outer cylinder 54 may comprise a non-thermally
conductive material, such as plastic or other synthetic materials.
An example material is acrylic, but other materials are
contemplated. Non-thermally conductive materials, or materials
having low conductivity, are preferred so that the outer surface of
cylinder 54 is safe to touch and does not burn nearby individuals.
It is also preferred that the outer surface of cylinder 54 is cool
so that materials that come into contact with the surface will not
ignite. In any event, outer cylinder 54 may conduct some amount of
heat so that heat transfer to the outer surroundings is maximized,
while remaining cool enough to preserve the safety of persons in
the vicinity of heater 10.
[0161] The material comprising outer cylinder 56 is also preferably
clear or transparent, or have some amount of transparency, so that
the flame in inner cylinder 54 may be visible through both
cylinders. Cylinder 54 may also be tinted.
[0162] Outer cylinder 54 may also serve a significant structural
function. To this end, outer cylinder 54 may provide some or all of
the strength necessary to support top section 80 and the components
contained therein. Inner cylinder 52, and when used, innermost
cylinder 52A may also serve a structural support function.
Furthermore, outer cylinder 54 may comprise a shatterproof material
so that it does not crack or shatter if hit with an object, so as
to avoid top portion 80 from tumbling down. It is also desired that
outer cylinder 54 be durable so as to provide safety for containing
flame 51.
[0163] With further respect to safety, heater 10 may also include
an automatic shutoff valve or switch if it is knocked over or if it
burns too hot. In this manner, even if heater 10 were knocked over
and midsection 50 became dislodged from base 20, fuel would cease
to be ignited and any exposed flame would quickly die out. The
mechanical and electrical components for the automatic shutoff
feature may be located in base 20, midsection 50 or top section
80.
[0164] As noted above, outer cylinder 54 is preferably transparent
so that flame 51 may be visible. Alternatively, inner and/or outer
cylinders 52, 54 may be configured to change color, to be made
temporarily opaque or to provide other visual effects.
[0165] As noted above, annular gap 56 may exist between cylinders
52, 54. The width of annular gap 56 between the cylinders may be
varied depending on factors that include the desired size of heater
10, the amount of desired heat and other factors. Annular gap 56
may, for example, be 10 inches. Other annular gap dimensions are
contemplated and the invention is not limited to this example.
[0166] In one embodiment of heater 10, heat exchangers may be
placed in the middle section 50, as shown in FIG. 10. In the
embodiment shown in FIG. 10, heat exchangers may be placed such
that heat from flame 51 may be delivered to a person's chest
level.
[0167] It is preferred that noxious fumes and other undesirable
combustion products are directed upward, and do not travel downward
with the heat in annular gap 56. This may occur through the
separation of heat and fumes in top section 80, before the heat is
drawn downward through gap 56. However, as noted above, filters may
be placed at one or more locations in heater 10 to reduce or
prevent any fumes or other contaminants from being delivered with
the heat to the surrounding area.
[0168] Top section or portion 80 is now further described with
reference to FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 3A, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 13. As best shown in
FIGS. 5 and 6, top portion 80 may include heat exchanger cap or
housing 81, which generally serves as a pressurized chamber that
captures heat from the flame 51, and that directs the heat downward
through forced air convection. Top section 80 also preferably
releases exhaust fumes or other undesirable combustion products in
an upward direction, or otherwise away from nearby individuals.
[0169] As shown in FIGS. 5-6, cap 81 may include outer wall 83 and
inner wall 85. In a preferred embodiment, walls 83, 85 may comprise
concentric cylinders, but other shapes may be used within the scope
of the invention. Walls 83, 85 may be joined together by any
suitable means. For example, inner wall 85 may be attached to
midsection 50, and outer wall 83 may be supported by inner wall 83
by virtue of top surface 99. Alternatively, flanges, struts or
other attachment means (not shown) may extend outward from inner
wall 85 to engage outer wall 83.
[0170] Top section 80 may include one or more heat exchangers 96,
98 which may capture the rising heat from flame 51. Heat exchangers
96, 98 may be housed within inner wall 85 and mounted thereto. Top
section 80 may also include inlet 82 and outlet 84 through which
air may flow to direct the heat downward to midsection 50.
[0171] In general, it is preferred that top section 80 and its
components are generally lightweight to avoid heater 10 becoming
top heavy, and to limit the stress on the glass and/or plastic
tubes supporting it. This is especially helpful as hot air flowing
through the annular gap warms and softens the plastic and/or glass
tubes. Top section 80 may be mounted to the top of midsection 50
through suitable attachment means, and it is preferred that top
section 80 be removable for cleaning and/or maintenance from time
to time. Alternative cleaning methods and items are discussed
later.
[0172] As explained below, air may flow into cap 81 through inlet
82 and transport the heat from heat exchangers 96, 98 through
outlet 84 down into midsection 50. At the same time, fumes may be
vented upward through exhaust outlet 92 in the top of cap 81 as
shown in FIG. 3A. For example, the portion of the top surface 99
above heat exchangers 96, 98 may be perforated, or may comprise a
grate with gaps between metal bars. Other possibilities for exhaust
outlet 92 are also contemplated, e.g., vents located in the side of
top section 80 as discussed later.
[0173] Heat exchangers 96 and 98 may have a variety of
configurations. For example, a single heat exchanger may be used.
As an alternative, multiple concentric or stacked heat exchangers
may be attached to a common manifold. The heat exchangers may be
air-filled or water-filled. However, air-filled heat exchangers may
be preferred for their lighter weight.
[0174] The manner in which heat exchanger cap 81 serves as a
pressurized chamber is now further described. Air under pressure
may pass through heat exchangers 96, 98 above and generally
perpendicular to the direction of flame 51 and become heated
thereby. This air may enter top portion 80 through fresh air inlet
82.
[0175] The fresh air may be forced through cap 81 due to the
downward drawing force provided by fan 30 in base 20. As such, cap
81 may form a plenum chamber or pressurized chamber. The fresh air
from inlet 82 may also absorb heat from the rising flame as it
moves through cap 81. This heat-bearing air may be drawn downward
through annular gap 56 through warm air exit 84.
[0176] Top portion 80 may be customized depending on space and
design considerations. Top portion 80 may be a cylindrical shape,
as depicted in FIG. 1. Other shapes are contemplated. For example,
top portion 80 may alternatively be a square or rectangular shape,
or it may include a pyramidal cap for decorative purposes. Top
portion 80 may be finished with any variety of finishes to suit
different decorative needs.
[0177] The height of top portion 80 may also be varied based on
factors that include space and cost considerations. As one example,
top portion 80 may be 12 inches high. Other heights are
contemplated, and the invention is not limited to this example.
[0178] As shown by FIGS. 5 and 6, top section 80 and cap 81 may
assume different configurations. In FIG. 5, for example, air inlet
82 may be formed by openings, holes or perforations in outer wall
83 of cap 81. Fresh air may be drawn into perforations or inlet 82
by virtue of the pressure differential or downward force created by
fan 30 in base 20. After the air enters inlet 82, it may be heated
by heat exchangers 96, 98 and be drawn downward through outlet 84
and into annular gap 56.
[0179] In the configuration of FIG. 6, top section 80, or cap 81,
may include bottom section 81a and upper section 81b. Sections 81a,
81b may include outer walls 83a, 83b, respectively. In this
embodiment, air inlet 82 may be formed in a gap between sections
81a, 81b. As such, inlet 82 may form a dedicated air gap inlet.
[0180] This embodiment may provide several benefits. For example,
air gap inlet 82 may extend around partially or completely around
the circumference of cap 81 which may provide an increased
cross-sectional area to receive incoming airflow. The appearance of
cap 81 with dedicated air gap 82 may also be sleek and stylistic as
shown in FIG. 14.
[0181] FIG. 15 shows this embodiment of top section 80 in more
detail. As shown, inlet 82 may extend partially around the
circumference of outer wall 83a, 83b. Air may flow into inlet 82
and may then flow through perforations 85a formed in inner wall 85.
At this point, the incoming air may be heated by heat exchangers
96, 98. Thereafter, due to the downward force imparted by fan 30 in
base section 20, the heated air is drawn downward through outlets
84.
[0182] The embodiment of top section 80 that may be associated with
FIG. 5 is now further described with reference to FIG. 16. In this
embodiment, outer wall 83 may comprise a perforated section 83a. In
this embodiment, perforated section 83a may form air inlet 82. The
pattern, size and/or placement of perforations in perforated
section 83a may vary, and different perforation configurations are
within the scope of the invention. To this end, the overall
cross-sectional area of perforations 83a may be adjusted to permit
appropriate, e.g., laminar, air flow through heater 10, in light of
the downward drawing power of fan 30 and other parameters.
[0183] The outer wall 83 of FIG. 16 is shown by itself with a
vertical gap between its ends. However, when wall 83 is attached to
heater 10, its vertical edges may be joined to form a cylindrical
tube. As noted throughout this document, the cross-sectional shape
of the various components of heater 10 need not be cylindrical, so
outer wall 83 may assume other shapes.
[0184] Other aspects and benefits of outer wall 83 of this
embodiment are now described. As indicated in the Background of the
Invention section, existing heating devices used for patios and
other areas are often grouped together because, individually, they
do not provide sufficient heat. In this situation, existing heaters
may contact each other and become dented or otherwise banged up.
When this happens, the heater looks battered and may not fit in
well with the surrounding decor or atmosphere.
[0185] As noted above, the heater 10 of the current invention
preferably avoids the need to be grouped with, or placed near,
other heating devices because it provides significant heat that is
laterally or radially distributed. But to the extent outer wall 83
is dented or otherwise damaged, it may be readily replaced with
another outer wall 83. In essence, this embodiment allows top
section 80 to be re-skinned or fitted with another outer wall
83.
[0186] To facilitate the replacement of outer wall 83, it is
preferred that outer wall 83 be attached to heater 10 with screws
or other attachment means that may be readily removed and
reattached.
[0187] Besides aesthetic purposes, the perforated outer wall 83
serves several purposes. For example, the perforations 83a receive
incoming airflow which reduces the buildup of heat in outer wall 83
itself. This in turn may reduce the heat that would otherwise be
radiated outward from outer wall 83. Besides increasing the
efficiency with which heat is processed by heater 10, this also
reduces the chance of anyone being burned should they touch top
section 80. To this end, perforations 83a allow the incoming air to
enter the space between outer and inner walls 83, 85, before the
air proceeds to within inner wall 85 to engage heat exchangers 96,
98. In this manner, the airflow may cool outer wall 83.
[0188] Other features of heater 10 are now further described. For
example, heater 10 may be operable via a remote control (not shown)
held by the user. The remote control may interact with sequence
switches and relays unit or control unit 42 to control the motors,
injectors and other components of heater 10. For example, the
remote control may cause the fuel to ignite in combustion chamber
24. The remote control may also allow the user to control the speed
and direction of vortex flame 51. The remote control may further
allow the user to select different settings such as the color of
the flame and the intensity of the heat.
[0189] Any number of preprogrammed settings may be effected by the
remote control. For example, the user may be provided with
different types of "programs" or "performances" in which the flame
vortex 51 undergoes certain transformations. The remote control and
programmability of heater 10 is discussed later in more detail.
[0190] With reference to FIGS. 17-30, several alternate embodiments
of heater 10 are now described. The heaters illustrated in FIGS.
17-30 may generally include various features of the embodiments of
heater 10 described above, and/or features of the other alternate
embodiments. As such, only the differences of each will be set
forth in detail herein.
[0191] The heaters 200, 300, 400, 500 shown in FIGS. 17-20 may
include various features making them well-suited for a permanent
outdoor installation. For example, these heater embodiments may use
plumbed gas as a fuel source, and hard wired electricity for power,
as discussed above. To this end, these utilities may be provided up
through the floor or other surface on which these heaters rest, and
engage the bottom of their bases.
[0192] As shown in FIGS. 17 and 17A, heater 200 includes a base 220
including a cabinet 227 having an air intake opening 221. Intake
221 may allow air into base 220, which air may be directed by the
vortex fan to aid in combustion when producing the flame vortex.
Air intake opening 221 is shown as a generally circular opening
located at approximately the middle of cabinet 227, but other
suitable shapes, sizes, and locations may be used.
[0193] As also shown in FIG. 17, heater 200 may include a top
section 280 including a cap 281 having an air inlet 282 therein. As
illustrated, air inlet 282 may be generally rectangular extending
about a portion of the circumference of cap 281. So configured, air
inlet 282 may provide an increased cross-sectional area for
receiving incoming air flow (as compared to air inlet 82 of heater
10) while also being capable of being positioned facing away,
generally out of view of nearby people for a sleek appearance.
[0194] With reference to FIG. 17A, the operation of heater 200 may
generally be as follows. Flame from the fire vortex expression 251
heats a radiator at the top section 281 which functions as a heat
exchanger, and heats fresh air that is drawn through the top vent
282 by a fan in the base 220. The hot fresh air is drawn down the
annular space 256 between the two tubes, past the fan and out the
opening 222 at bottom of heater 200. The exhaust from the flame is
vented out the top of the unit. Electronics may be housed in base
220 of heater 10 with electricity hard-wired to the heater, and
plumbed natural gas as a fuel source.
[0195] FIG. 18 shows another embodiment of heater 300. Heater 300
includes top section 380 including a cap 381 with one or more air
inlet slot(s) 382 and one or more exhaust outlet slot(s) 392. As
illustrated, air inlet slot(s) 382 and exhaust outlet slot(s) 392
may be horizontally aligned, narrow, generally rectangular openings
extending about a portion of the circumference of cap 381. In one
form, air inlet slot 382 is disposed near the bottom of cap 381,
while exhaust outlet slot 392 is disposed near the top of cap 381.
This configuration for slots 382, 392 advantageously provides a
relatively discrete visual appearance. Further, the slots may be
positioned facing away, generally out of view of people nearby.
Alternatively, several of each of slots 382, 392 may extend about
the periphery of cap 381. Various numbers of air inlet slots 382
and exhaust outlet slots 392 may be used.
[0196] Further, the positioning of exhaust outlet slot(s) 392 on
the side of cap 381 allows for exhaust fumes to be vented out of
the side of the cap rather than through the top surface 393 of the
cap 381 as described above for heater 10. This modification may be
accomplished, for example, with a modification of ducting within
cap 381 to direct exhaust fumes out the sides rather than out the
top of cap 381. This provides the benefit of having exhaust fumes
vent out near the top of the heater 300, generally above any people
nearby, while also allowing the top surface 393 of cap 381 to be
closed and/or free from any openings that could potentially allow
leaves and/or other debris to enter the top section 380.
[0197] FIG. 19 shows another alternate embodiment for heater 400.
In heater 400, air inlet 482 takes the form of a plurality of
parallel, generally vertical slots similar in appearance to a
grill. Eight slots are shown for air inlet 482, but any suitable
number of slots may be used. Exhaust slots 492 may be one or more
horizontal rectangles. The distance between intakes 482 and exhaust
ports 492 may be varied to avoid noxious fumes being sucked into
intakes 482. To this end, intakes 482 may be shorter so that their
tops are further from exhaust ports 492. Cap 481 may also have a
rounded top surface 493.
[0198] FIG. 20 illustrates another alternate embodiment for heater
500 in which base 520 is positioned below ground level 501. As
such, base 520 includes cabinet or base tube or cylinder 527 which
may include connections for fuel and electrical sources. Base 520
may also include shroud 521 that is positioned radially outward
from cabinet 527 thereby forming annular passageway 521a between
shroud 521 and cabinet 527.
[0199] Cabinet 527 may include one or more heat exhaust outlet(s)
522 for venting heated air out of base 520. Base 520 may also
include annular vent 529, which may for example, comprise a
decorative grate, disposed around the circumference of cabinet 527
and over annular passageway 521a.
[0200] In operation, heated air may travel from top portion 580 of
heater 500 through midsection 550 into base 520. This heated air
may be vented out of exhaust outlet(s) 522 and travel through
annular passageway 521a and up through vent 529 to heat the
surrounding area. When base 520 is installed underground, annular
vent 529 is preferably substantially flush with the surrounding
ground or foundation.
[0201] As illustrated in FIG. 20, the space or container 521b in
which base 520 is positioned is preferably large enough to provide
space around the circumference of cabinet 527 for grate 529.
Alternatively, heater 500 may be sunk into the ground soil. So
configured, base 520 of heater 500 may be hidden from view allowing
the vortex flame within the midsection 550 to be the main
focus.
[0202] In this embodiment, rainwater or other fluids may pass
downward through grate 529 and into 520. To prevent fluids from
accumulating, base 520 may include drains 523 which may lead to a
sewer or other path to carry water away. Air intakes 582 and fume
exhaust ports 592 may be located in top section 580 as shown.
[0203] The heaters 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400
shown in FIGS. 21-28 have features particularly well-suited for
portable outdoor use. To this end, they may include a portable fuel
supply and may also rely on external electrical power such as a
wall electrical outlet.
[0204] Heater 600 is shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, and includes base
620 with two cabinets 627, 629. Cabinets 627, 629 may be aligned
from front to back of heater 600 such that the cabinet 629 is
substantially hidden from view by cabinet 627 when viewing heater
600 from the front (as shown in FIG. 22). Cabinet 627 may function
similar to cabinet 27 in heater 10. Cabinet 629 is sized to house a
portable fuel source, such as a propane tank.
[0205] As further illustrated in FIG. 21, base 620 may include a
pedestal 626 having a generally oblong base portion 626a that is
longer in diameter from front to back than from side to side. As
illustrated, oblong base portion 626a may stably support the larger
base 620, including the two cabinets 627, 629, and reduce the risk
of heater 600 tipping. However, the extra length is generally only
visible when viewing heater 600 from the side (as in FIG. 21). When
heater 600 is viewed from the front (as in FIG. 22) pedestal 626
and base portion 626a may have a slim profile appearing to have
substantially the same diameter as the rest of heater 600.
[0206] Base 620 may also accommodate additional components such as
battery 641, which may be rechargeable, and/or electrical cord 651
which may plug into a power supply. Inlets 682 and fume exhaust
ports 692 may be located as shown. Base portion 629 may be lifted
up to expose propane tank 629a. Alternatively, cylinder 629 may
include an access door (not shown). Air for the vortex fan to
deliver for combustion may be drawn from inside base 620.
Alternatively, base 620 may include an air intake, like intake 221
in FIGS. 17 and 17A to provide air for the vortex fan.
[0207] FIGS. 23A and 23B illustrate another alternate embodiment
for heater 700 which includes base 720 with a main cabinet section,
tube, or cylinder 727, which may have a circumference that is
larger than the circumference of the midsection 750 of the heater,
and an inwardly slanted transitional cabinet section 727a that
connects midsection 750 to cabinet 727. As illustrated in FIG. 23A,
main cabinet section 727 may house a portable fuel source, such as
a propane tank 729a. A hinged door 729 sized to accommodate tank
729a therethrough is located in the main cabinet section 727 and is
preferably substantially flush therewith when closed (as shown in
FIG. 23B).
[0208] A fan (not shown) to direct the heated air downward may be
positioned within main cabinet 727 above the tank 729a. One or more
baffle(s) 730 located within main cabinet 727 may direct the flow
of heated air around the tank toward the exhaust outlet 722. Power
cord 751 may extend from base 720.
[0209] Pedestal 726 and pedestal base 726a of heater 700 may have a
circumference substantially the same as the circumference of main
cabinet section 727 (i.e., larger than that of the midsection 750
of the heater 700).
[0210] Heater 700 further includes top section 780 with cap 781
having another form of exhaust outlet. As illustrated, cap 781 may
include an inwardly slanted transitional section 781a that connects
the cap 781 to the top surface 793. Exhaust outlet 782 may comprise
a plurality of slots disposed about the circumference of cap 781 in
the transitional section 781a. This configuration allows for a
closed top surface 793 with exhaust being vented out to the side
near the top of the heater 700.
[0211] FIGS. 24A-B and 25A-B illustrate additional embodiments for
outdoor portable heaters. Heater 800 shown in FIGS. 24A-B may
include base 820 with a cabinet 827 that convexly slopes gradually
outwardly from a smaller circumference near the top of cabinet 827
to a larger circumference near the bottom of cabinet 827. The
convex slope may be parabolic or some other profile. Pedestal 826
and pedestal base 826a may have the same circumference as larger
circumference of the bottom of base 827. Heater 900 includes a
cabinet 927 that concavely slopes gradually outwardly from a
smaller circumference near the top of cabinet 927 to a larger
circumference near the bottom of cabinet 927. The concave slope may
be parabolic or some other profile. Base 926 and base pedestal 926a
may continue the concave profile of base 927.
[0212] Heaters 800, 900 may include another form of exhaust port.
As shown in FIGS. 24A-B, exhaust port 892 is in the form of a gap
between cap 881 and top 890. As with other side venting
embodiments, this configuration advantageously allows for a closed
top surface 893 of cap top 890. Heater 900 may include a similarly
configured exhaust port 992.
[0213] FIGS. 26A-B illustrate another embodiment for an outdoor
portable heater. Heater 1000 may include a small top section 1080
without a heat exchange element as discussed with prior
embodiments. Exhaust may be vented through exhaust outlet 1092,
which is in the form of a gap between cap 1081 and top 1090 of top
section 1080. This configuration of top section 1080 has the
advantage that it includes fewer components and may thus be less
expensive.
[0214] Heater 1000 may include a modified base 1020 including a
cabinet 1027 for housing a portable fuel source 1029a for providing
a flame vortex and a heating element 1029, for example, a propane
or electric heating element, for providing heat from the base 1020.
Heater 1000 may also include battery pack 1031, which may be
removable, and power or recharge cord 1032, which may be removable
from heater 1000.
[0215] FIGS. 27A-B illustrate heater 1100, which, like heater 1000,
houses a heating element 1129 in base 1120 rather than a heat
exchanger in top portion 1180. Heater 1100 may have an overall long
and slim profile relative to the other embodiments described
herein. Likewise, base 1120 includes cabinet 1127 that may be
relatively long and slim, suitable for housing multiple smaller
portable fuel sources, e.g., one-pound propane tanks, one on top of
each other. Cabinet 1129 may also house a heating element 1129
therein. Air for the vortex fan to deliver for combustion may be
drawn from inside base 620. Alternatively, base 620 may include an
air intake, like intake 221 in FIGS. 17 and 17A to provide air for
the vortex fan.
[0216] Pedestal 1126 includes pedestal base 1126a having a
generally conical frustum shape to stably support heater 1100. In
this manner base pedestal 1126a may be wider than the rest of
heater 1100. Base 1120 may include battery pack 1131 and cord 1132
as described in connection with heater 1000. Top section 1190 may
include exhaust ports 1192 as shown.
[0217] FIGS. 28A and 28B illustrate another embodiment for an
outdoor portable heater that may be incorporated into a tabletop.
Heater 1200 may include base 1220 that includes table top 1229
disposed around the base 1220 at or near the top thereof. Table top
1229 may be formed of any suitable material, including for example,
glass, stainless steel, wood, acrylic, etc. In one form, table top
1229 is integral with heater 1200 such that midsection 1250 and the
flame vortex project upward from table top 1229 while base 1220
supports table top 1229 much like a pedestal base of a conventional
dining table.
[0218] As such, base 1220 includes a cabinet 1227, pedestal 1226,
and pedestal base 1226a that have a circumference suitable for
stably supporting the heater 1200 including the additional weight
of the table top 1229. In this embodiment, heat may be delivered at
or near an individual's feet, while the fire vortex may be the
focus of attention above the table top 1229.
[0219] FIGS. 29 and 30 illustrate additional heater embodiments
1300, 1400, respectively, that may be suitable for indoor use. As
shown, heaters 1300, 1400 may extend from floor to ceiling with
exhaust being vented out through the ceiling into exhaust ducting
(not shown). Heaters 1300, 1400 may use a plumbed fuel source,
e.g., natural gas, propane or other fuels, and be hard wired to an
electrical system.
[0220] Heater 1300 includes top section 1380 configured to intake
fresh air and release exhaust fumes through ducting (not shown) in
the ceiling such that there need not be any visible air intake or
exhaust outlet vents. Air for the vortex fan to deliver for
combustion may be drawn from inside base 620. Alternatively, base
620 may include an air intake, like intake 221 in FIGS. 17 and 17A
to provide air for the vortex fan.
[0221] Like heater 1300, heater 1400 includes top section 1480
configured to vent exhaust fumes through the ceiling to ducting
(not shown). Top section 1480 may include a cap 1481 and a top 1490
with an air intake gap 1492 therebetween.
[0222] Bottom section 1420 and pedestal base 1426a may reflect a
concave profile. Similarly, top section 1480 and top 1490 may
reflect a similar concave profile. This preferably provides a
balanced and sleek appearance.
[0223] Another indoor heater embodiment 1700 is now discussed with
reference to FIG. 30A. As shown, heater 1700 may extend from floor
1701 to ceiling 1702. More specifically, midsection 1750 may extend
from floor 1701 to ceiling 1702 to provide the unique appearance of
a transparent section and fire vortex 1751 without a base and top
section. In this embodiment, midsection 1750 may be more properly
referenced simply as tube section 1750, because as shown, heater
1700 need not have a base as in the other embodiments. Furthermore,
tube section 1750 may only include a single tube because in this
embodiment, heated air need not be drawn to any base through an
annular gap between concentric tubes. Instead, vortex fan 1770 may
simply provide air for combustion below or at floor level with fuel
supplied as shown to combustion chamber 1724. Flame vortex 1751 may
then extend upward.
[0224] The resulting heat may be captured in top section 1780 in
heat exchanger(s) 1796, 1798. These heat exchangers may be
positioned in HVAC ducting 1703 in which air flows due to fan 1704.
To that end, air may be sucked into HVAC duct 1703 through inlet
1705 and then forced past heat exchangers 1796, 1798 to deliver air
to one or more vents 1706. To facilitate the heated airflow, an
additional HVAC fan 1704a may be used as shown. Warm air may be
delivered to multiple rooms.
[0225] In another embodiment similar to the other heaters described
above, heater 1700 may include a base with a fan to draw down
heated air as described above. This heater air may then be fed from
the base to HVAC ducting to vents in the floor 1701.
[0226] Fumes from fire vortex 1751 may be vented through ports 1785
that are preferably positioned out of HVAC ducting 1703.
[0227] Another heater embodiment that allows cleaning without
disassembly is now described with reference to FIGS. 33-35. Heater
1500 is configured to receive a cleaning apparatus 1600 for
removing soot, dirt and/or other debris that may be deposited on
the interior of inner cylinder 1552 over time. More specifically,
as illustrated, heater 1500 includes a base 1520, midsection 1550
and top section 1580 similar to other embodiments. However, top
section 1580 is modified to receive the cleaning apparatus 1600
therethrough. In particular, top section 1580 includes cap 1581
with access tube 1587 extending therethrough. Access tube 1587 is
generally coaxial with the inner cylinder 1552 of midsection 1550
and sized to receive the cleaning apparatus 1600 therethrough.
[0228] In one form, cleaning apparatus 1600 may include a hose or
tube 1610 with a plurality of perforations or openings 1612
disposed around the circumference and along the length thereof. The
tube 1610 may include a water hose attachment 1614 at one end
thereof. Tube 1610 may be rigid, semi rigid or flexible. As shown,
tube 1610 is preferably sized so that it may be inserted through
the access tube 1587 of top section 1580 and inner cylinder 1552 of
midsection 1550. It preferably has a length that is substantially
the same as the height of the inner cylinder 1552.
[0229] As illustrated in FIG. 34, once tube 1610 is positioned
within the inner cylinder 1552, a water or other cleaning fluid
supply may deliver water or cleaning fluid into tube 1610. The
water may spray out of tube 1610 from each of the perforations 1612
thereby spraying water or cleaning fluid at the inner surface of
inner cylinder 1552. The water may then drain from inner cylinder
1552 into base 1520 and out through heat exhaust vent 1522.
[0230] As illustrated in FIG. 35, in one form, access tube 1587 may
extend through the top surface 1593 of cap 1581 and may pass
through one or more heat exchangers 1596, 1598 within cap 1581.
Removable cap or plug 1599 may also be inserted in the top end of
access tube 1587 to seal it when cleaning apparatus 1600 is not in
use.
[0231] Access tube 1587 in the heat exchanger may also allow for
the insertion of a vacuum cleaner attachment. A tube attached to a
vacuum unit or similar low air pressure inducing appliance may be
used to extract water, dirt or debris from the combustion chamber
area.
[0232] As described above in connection with FIGS. 28A-28B, the
heater of the current invention may be incorporated into furniture
such as a table. Further in this regard, a table or tables may be
arranged around the heater of the current invention in a manner to
optimize heat output. For example, ducting may extend outwardly
from the heater exhaust vents below the table(s), or other
furniture, to provide an even greater radius of warmth.
Additionally, the table or other furniture may be formed of a
suitably porous material or with openings therethrough to provide
released heat upwards as well as outwards. In this matter, the
heater may be used to keep food warm on a table.
[0233] FIG. 36 illustrates another alternate embodiment of a
heater. Heater 1800 may incorporate umbrella 1890 at top section
1880. As illustrated, top section 1880 of heater 1800 includes cap
1891 with an open top surface 1893 for venting exhaust fumes.
Umbrella 1890 is preferably removably attached to the top of cap
1881 and includes an open top 1891 such that exhaust venting from
top surface 1893 is released above umbrella 1890. Umbrella 1890 may
be removed and/or foldable into a closed position if not in
use.
[0234] Heater 1800 advantageously provides a sturdy and stable base
1820 for umbrella 1890. Thus, heater 1800 may advantageously be
used day and night. It may provide shade and/or rain protection
during the day in addition to the vortex flame display at night. In
this manner, heater 1800 may reduce the time and/or labor required
with existing devices where sun umbrellas must be installed during
the day and heaters must be installed at night on a nearly daily
basis.
[0235] Further, in another form, multiple heater 1800s may be
positioned proximate to one another to provide a canopy. This may
be used to advantageously provide a partially enclosed space
similar to a heated tent or room.
[0236] FIGS. 37-43 illustrate an alternate embodiment for base
1920. Base 1920 incorporates many of the features of base 20
described above, and similar reference numerals are used. Hence,
only the differences will be described in detail. Different views
of base 1920 are provided so that these components may be seen.
[0237] Base 1920 may include fan 1930 near the bottom of base 1920
to draw heated air downward from above. Fan blades 1940 may be
attached to the drive shaft of an electrically driven axial fan.
Fan 1930 preferably operates smoothly and quietly, located beneath
the combustion chamber 1924, drawing warm air from above. Fan 1930
may be a direct drive thereby avoiding the need for a fan belt or
bearings on which a fan rotates. This preferably saves on cost and
increases durability.
[0238] In this embodiment, fan blades 1940 do not extend all the
way to base 1920, thereby allowing enough space between base 1920
and the tips of the rotating fan blades 1940, to run utility lines
1971, e.g., fuel lines and electric power for both the axial flow
fan 1930 and also the centrifugal fan 1970 that provides air into
combustion chamber 1924 and for spinning the flame. Control wires
for operating solenoids, etc. may also be passed through this gap
between fan blades 1940 and base 1920. In one embodiment, the gap
between the fan blade tips 1240 and base 1220 is about 1 inch, but
other gaps may be used. Running utility lines 1971 in an exterior
fashion avoids the need to run utilities centrally up the support
structure described in earlier embodiments.
[0239] Utility lines 1971 may run vertically and preferably close
to the exterior wall of base 1220 to provide clearance for the
largest diameter fan allowable. In this manner heat delivery may be
increased. Additionally, a shroud or duct 1972 may be installed
around the fan within close proximity to the tips of fan blades
1940 to provide efficient airflow, to protect utility lines 1971
(which may run exteriorly to shroud 1972), and to act as heat
shielding for the external wall of base 1920.
[0240] As shown in FIGS. 37-43, base 1920 may include framing or
frame structure 1920a, which may in turn include horizontal
circular rings 1920a' and vertical members 1920a''. These items may
be welded or otherwise fastened together to provide strength to
support heater 1920. Base 1920 may also include mating ring 1920a''
to which a midsection (not shown) may be attached.
[0241] As will be readily understood to those of skill in the art,
the various embodiments described herein may have particular
advantages in certain applications, for example a permanent outdoor
installation, a portable outdoor use, and/or indoor use. For
example, a device that is permanently installed outside plumbed to
a fuel source and hard-wired electricity will have the advantage of
a clean installation, with utility lines hidden from view and out
of the way of traffic. The device run time will not be limited by a
limited fuel source or battery life. The device may also be stably
and securely mounted to a floor or foundation, for example, with
anchors.
[0242] Portable devices have the advantage of being easily
relocated and/or repositioned. They do not require plumbing or hard
wiring and may be used in new and old spaces alike.
[0243] Indoor devices, like permanent outdoor devices, have the
advantage of hidden gas and electrical sources and unlimited run
time. They may also be stably and securely mounted to a floor or
foundation (for example with anchors). Additionally, exhaust fumes
may be vented through the ceiling out of a given space.
[0244] With reference to FIGS. 46-50, a heater in accordance with
any of the embodiments described herein may be operable by
computer, smartphone and/or other mobile device via mobile and/or
web app. For example, a user may initiate a Wi-Fi connection
between one or more heater(s) and one or more mobile device(s) as
shown in FIG. 44. The user may scan a heater's serial number into
the mobile device (for example, via the mobile device's built in
camera), turn the heater on to a "setup mode" and thereby establish
remote control of the heater through the app as shown in FIG. 45.
Additionally, the app may also synch the heater's status and GPS
location.
[0245] Once a heater is connected to a computer or mobile device,
the app may show a representation 30A of the heater (e.g., dot,
star, icon, etc.) on a map and or satellite image as shown in FIG.
46. A user may click on the heater 30A to open a control window 32
for the given heater 30A. From control window 32, the user may view
the heater's status and signal strength, and may control various
features of the heater, for example, output air temperature,
propane output, flame height or appearance, fan speed, and the
like. The values for the various features may be linked by the app
such that adjusting the setting of one feature may automatically
adjust the setting of one or more additional features. In this
manner, it can be ensured that the heater is operated within safety
limits.
[0246] The dot or icon representing a given heater may be different
colors to give an indication of the heater's status as shown in
FIG. 47. One color, grey for example, may indicate that a heater
30B is powered down and not operational. Another color, green for
example, may indicate the heater is powered on and operating
properly. Another color, yellow for example, may indicate a warning
with respect to the heater's 30C status. If the user opens the
control window for such a heater 30C, the control window may
provide detail regarding the particular issue. For example, the
control window 32 may indicate that the heater's fuel source is
running low.
[0247] Yet another color, red for example, as shown in FIG. 48 may
indicate that heater 30D has shut off due to a fault in the system,
for example, an overheated radiator. Again, the user may open the
control window for the heater to see details 34 about any
particular fault.
[0248] An onboard monitoring system may monitor any number of
possible faults and may notify a user of the fault and/or take
appropriate action. For example, if the pilot light is not lit, the
heater may not start. If the temperature of the radiator is too
high, the flame level may be decreased or the output fan speed or
bypass vent may be increased. If the output temperature is too
high, the flame level may be decreased or the output fan speed or
bypass vent may be increased. If the tilt sensor indicates the
device is not within predetermined limits, the device may be shut
off or not start. If the glass cylinder is broken, the gas may be
shut off or the device may not start. If there is a restriction of
output air flow, a warning may indicate a need to clean the
radiator or the device may shutdown via an overheat protocol. If
the fuel level or pressure level is too low, a warning may indicate
if the estimated run time is less than a predetermined value, for
example, 10 minutes, or the device may shut off.
[0249] The app may include both manual and automatic controls for
various features. Manual controls may include, for example,
increasing or decreasing output temperature, increasing or
decreasing flame height, increasing or decreasing output air flow.
Automatic controls may include, for example, setting thermostat for
a predetermined value for indoor use, remotely sensing temperature
and making adjustments to hold a predetermined temperature for
outdoor use, permitting a programed schedule, for example, based on
date, time, or light sensor.
[0250] A scheduler, as shown in FIG. 49, may allow a user to
program on/off times for various heaters on a daily and/or weekly
schedule. Additionally, the app may allow a choreographed flame
appearance, for example, height and/or spinning speed, which may be
synched with music or other audio element.
[0251] A heater in accordance with the various embodiments
described herein may include a variety of additional features. For
example, an auto-clean system may automatically clean the inner and
outer cylinders on a schedule and thereby reduce required
maintenance of the device. Alternatively, the user may be advised
that a manual cleaning, such as that described in FIGS. 33-35, is
necessary.
[0252] A water feature may be incorporated between the inner and
outer cylinders thereby allowing the device to provide an
interesting visual effect both during the daylight and at night.
The water may be colored, for example, with an additive or with
lighting, to provide additional interest to the visual effect.
Further, such a water feature may also advantageously act as a
cleaning system to remove any soot, dirt, or other debris from
within the device.
[0253] Aromatherapy may be incorporated in the device. For example,
controlled release of incense pellets housed within the device may
allow a user to change the aroma of the surrounding area. The
aromatherapy may be released such that corresponds to certain flame
choreography or schedule.
[0254] Misters may be incorporated, for example, around the top of
a device, to allow for cooling as well as heating, thereby allowing
the device to be an all season device.
[0255] Colored flames may be incorporated. Further, users may be
able to control and change the color of the flame to correspond to
different flame choreography or audio input. In this regard,
pelletized salts may be released into the combustion chamber to
control the flame color.
[0256] Finally, speakers and/or audio controls may be incorporated
into the device so that the device could provide a complete audio
and visual display. For example, music or fire sounds may be
provided through the audio system to correspond with choreographed
flames and/or schedule.
[0257] Although certain presently preferred embodiments of the
invention have been described herein, it will be apparent to those
skilled in the art to which the invention pertains that variations
and modifications of the described embodiments may be made without
departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
* * * * *