PROPANE TANK COVER

Abstract

Systems and methods are disclosed to cover a propane tank located on a property by providing a shell that covers, hides and protects the propane tank; and beautifying and blending with the current landscape and enhancing the value of the property.

Description

This application claims priority to Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/458,689 filed on Nov. 29, 2010, and to application Ser. No. 13/297,228 filed Nov. 15, 2011, the content of which is incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to tank covers and more specifically it relates to a decorative propane tank cover that becomes part of the landscaping.

DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ART

Wood fences are commonly used to hide the propane tanks located by homes or businesses. At times users build wood fences to hide ugly propane tanks in yards. The fences warp, rot, split, and fall down. The wood fences also fade or bleach to an ugly brown or grey and have to be painted every two to three years. It is understandable that these methods are inadequate at times because of the costly time-consuming effort required to keep them attractive. It is also important to make sure the fence posts do not rot or get termites. In some instances homeowners have gone to an even greater expense by burying the tanks underground.

The use of certain prior art products such as US patent application 2007/0125789 help to cover up the propane tank but it is still obvious that it is a propane tank under the cover. Because the tank cover is made from fabric it is questionable how long the fabric cover will last. The biggest problem with the fabric tank cover is that it has no real aesthetic value to hide the tank. It still looks like an unattractive propane tank in your front yard. An aesthetic landscape tank cover that overcomes the numerous problems associated with prior art would be valuable to these trades and many others.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, systems and methods are disclosed to cover a propane tank located on a property by providing a shell that covers, hides and protects the propane tank; and beautifying and blending with the current landscape and enhancing the value of the property.

In another aspect, systems and methods are disclosed for a cover with a body adapted to house a propane tank with propane tank control knobs therein, the body having a camouflaged shell with one or more air vents on the camouflaged shell; a lid on the body to allow access to the propane tank control knobs; and means for securing the body to ground.

Implementations of the above aspect can include one or more of the following. The system can have an access area (or lid as the case may be) for meter reading, servicing and filling the propane tank. The present invention is typically made of plastic composition such as polyethylene and is an excellent candidate for 100% recycled material or any blend thereof. Due to the lightweight material, the present invention can be removed in minutes as may be required. The tank cover can be manufactured in numerous colors to blend in with any geographic area of the world.

Other embodiments of the above aspect can provide one or more of the following:

1) An aesthetic cover for a propane tank;

2) A maintenance free tank cover;

3) A cost effective tank cover;

4) A tank cover that may be efficaciously nested to reduce shipping costs;

5) A landscape product to blend in with existing landscaping;

6) A product to help control the expansion of propane in hot weather;

7) An aesthetic product to increase the value of the property;

8) A product that makes an eyesore on your property disappear;

9) A protective cover for propane tanks that enhances child safety;

10) A product that can use recycled plastic;

11) A Product to keep the propane tank regulator from freezing in cold weather;

12) A product to keep the propane tank regulator line from being crushed by heavy snow fall.

Furthermore, the preferred embodiments can be used in order to hide ugly/obtrusive propane tanks, blend in with the existing landscaping, enhance the value of the home/business and will be virtually maintenance free.

Advantages of the preferred embodiments may include one or more of the following. The decorative landscape propane tank cover of the preferred embodiment overcomes the problems associated with prior art. The preferred embodiment will not rot, is termite and rodent proof. It also provides a positive environmental quality as it helps keep the sun from expanding the propane in the tank, which may cause the release valve to expel propane into the atmosphere. The decorative landscape propane tank cover would typically be shaped to look like a large rock or boulder and blend in with the landscaping of a yard. It completely covers the propane tank and hides otherwise ugly green, brown, orange, rusted or other discolored propane tank surfaces. It may be secured to the ground by stakes or bolted in place to concrete. They require no paint, stain, or rebuilding, as the cover and is virtually maintenance free. Typically the tank cover can be manufactured in numerous colors to blend in with any geographic area of the world. There is also the child safety factor; in that children now longer have access to the propane tank, fittings and valves. Additional benefits to the preferred embodiment are that the aesthetic value of the tank cover inherently increases the value of the home or business. Plants may also be planted or placed nearby to further enhance the appearance and value of the home.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention described herein will become apparent from the following detailed description considered in connection with the accompanying drawings, which disclose several embodiments of the invention. It should be understood, however, that the drawings are designed for the purpose of illustration and not as limits of the invention.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment illustrating the components that make up the preferred embodiments and their related elements.

FIG. 2 shows an exemplary rock cover enclosing a propane tank.

FIG. 3A-3B show before and after views of the preferred embodiment providing a cover for residential and commercial propane tanks that looks like a natural rock.

FIG. 4 shows a second embodiment of a rock cover.

DESCRIPTION

A. Description of the Preferred Embodiment

FIG. 1 shows a rock cover 10 consists of a large body 20 and a top lid 30. Inside rock cover 10 is propane tank P. Body 20 is in the general shape of a large boulder and has air vents 22a and 22b on one side with similar air vents 22c and 22d on the opposite side (not shown). Optional air vents may also be placed in other locations such as the ends, mid-body locations or on the top.

In body 20 there are six recesses, 26a, 26b, 26c, and 26d, 26e, and 26f, (not shown) near the bottom edge 27. At the base of these recesses are holes 28a, 28b, 28c, and 28d, 28e, 28f, (not shown) that serve as stake down locations. Alternatively any other form of stake-down or securing method may be used such as protruding feet, metal brackets and so on. These stake-down methods can be used to secure and protect the tank cover against high winds and storms.

Top lid 30 is shown in an open disposition with lid opening 24 exposing the underlying tank filling assembly F, as shown with sufficient girth to allow easy access for meter reading, filling and servicing.

The top lid 30 is shown attached to the main body 20 with two hinges which are located on one side of the lid. Top lid 30 may also be attached into the main body 20 by simple downward pressure, and removed by simple upward pressure, without the use of hinges.

Body 20 is typically made of plastic such as polyethylene with an outer surface that emulates that of a rock boulder. This outer surface is typically prepared with a texture and coloring that would typically match the locale geology. For example in the western Sierras it may emulate granite, whereas in the southwest it may emulate sandstone or the classic red clay common in northern Arizona.

The size and shape of rock cover 10 is based on the various sizes of propane tanks found within the United States and the world, which typically range in size from 150 gallons to 1,000 gallons.

B. The Preferred Embodiment in Use

FIG. 2 shows an exemplary rock cover enclosing a propane tank, while FIG. 3A-3B shows before and after views of the preferred embodiment providing a cover for residential and commercial propane tanks that looks like a natural rock. It is lightweight, durable, aesthetically pleasing, easy to install, and environmentally safe. Placed over the unsightly tank, it will enhance the landscape and increase the value of a property. The propane tank cover is available in five different colors, to match natural rock formations. The preferred embodiment when in use covers the underlying propane tank but also protects it in many ways. For example, the air vents 22a and 22b allow for sufficient airflow to help cool the tank during hotter days, so the propane gas will not expand and accidently escape into the atmosphere. During the winter, rain and snow are kept off the propane tank and will help prevent rust, weathering, and bleaching of the tank. The tank cover will also keep children from playing on the actual propane tank improving safety at home. The cover can be a beautiful, hollow rock that simply goes over the top of the tank to cover it up. The rock is UV protected so it will not fade, crack, freeze or rot, and is termite resistant. There is a hinged lid in the top of the rock which opens to allow you to check your propane gauge and to facilitate filling the tank. Now, instead of a huge tank in your yard, you have a beautiful rock that becomes part of the natural landscape. Rather than detracting from the value of your home, you have added to it. More exemplary uses of the preferred embodiments are discussed at http://rockonpropanecovers.com, the content of which is incorporated by reference.

The preferred embodiment as shown looks like a large rock boulder with an inconspicuous hinged, removable lid for access to the propane tank. The Tank Cover . . .

Does not fade because it is UV protected

Will not crack, split, rot or rust

Protects the propane tank from propane expansion and loss during the hot summer months

Protects the regulator from freezing during winter weather

Keeps snow from accumulating on your tank and regulator

Installs in 15-30 minutes

Has airflow vents in the top and bottom for ventilation

Has a lid in the top of the rock to fill the propane tank and check propane levels

Fits a 500 gallon propane tank or smaller

Replaces warped, rotting fences that were built to hide the propane tank

Can be used to cover a number of other unsightly items in your yard such as swimming pool equipment and utility boxes

The tank cover may also be in any other number of shapes, for example, a dinosaur, and elephant sitting at rest, a stepped waterfall or sitting bench and so on. The key aspect of the preferred embodiment is to serve as a shell that sufficiently covers, hides and protects the underlying propane tank while beautifying and blending in with the current landscape as well as enhancing the value of the property.

D. Method of Manufacture (May Include the Associated Process)

The preferred embodiment is typically made by the process of rotational molding, but may also be made by blow molding, fiberglass fabrication and so on. It is typically manufactured from a plastic type polyethylene material that is either virgin, recycled or a combination of these materials, but may be made of any number of plastic or combination materials include celluloid. The thickness of the material is typically ⅛ to ⅜ inch thick but may be any suitable thickness based on desirability in a given region. For example, in geographic areas that have extreme cold temperatures thicker plastics may be desirable or foam insulation can be added.

E. Variations

FIG. 4 shows an exemplary Propane Tank Cover For Upright/Vertical Tanks. In this embodiment, a hollow manufactured landscape rock covers upright propane tanks. The rock propane tank is three sided and has no bottom. In FIG. 4, a manufactured rock propane tank cover 10 covers a propane tank PT and is mounted to a house or building HB that the propane tank cover is attached to. The cover 10 has a recessed area 12 to attach the rock cover 10 to a building, one for each side of the rock cover. A set of holes 14A for screws or nails allows the user to attach the rock cover to a building. Another set of holes 14B allows spikes or bolts to attach rock cover to the ground/pad. A third set of holes 14C allows spikes or bolts to attach rock cover to the ground/pad. The cover 10 also provides vent 16A and 16B for air flow. A lid opening 24 is positioned on top of rock cover to access propane tank. There is a child proof lid on the top of the rock cover for access to the propane tank. The child proof lid keeps children from accessing the valves, gauges, and tank. The cover 10 has a propane tank cover lid 20 with child proof latches 22A/22C to secure lid 20 that mates with corresponding latches 22B/22D on the cover 10. The rock like propane tank cover enhances the look of a home, office, or structure by hiding the unsightly propane tank. It helps to keep the tank from loosing propane during hot summer weather because it is now in a cool shaded area. It protects the regulator from freezing in extreme cold weather. It protects the entire tank from Mother Nature. This embodiment increases the value of the user's home, office or building because of the visual effect and other named features.

In one embodiment, the Propane Tank covers are designed to fit 500 gallon tanks or smaller, with a maximum length of 119″ (check the manufacturer's plate on your tank for the length). The tank cover is 4 feet wide, 10 feet long and 51 inches tall. The Propane Tank Covers are vented on all four sides on the bottom and also have ventilation in the top for proper air flow. These sturdy covers still only weigh from 180 to 200 lbs. The covers are anchored into the ground with metal spikes to keep them stationary. The covers are made from a special polymer that is protected against UV light to help prevent fading over time; they will last for years and years, and will not crack, rust or rot. The cover protect the tank and regulator from the snow and freezing and goes over the tank, regulator, and riser pipe for ultimate protection. The RockOn Propane Tank Cover has recently been tested and found capable of supporting up to 2300 lbs. of snow, or 117 lbs. per sq. ft.! An insulated version can be used for very high elevation snow loads. The rock cover has a convenient lid in the very top for easy and quick access when checking propane levels or when the propane company needs to fill or service your tank. The Propane Tank Covers can help users: Save Money, Hide unsightly, rusty, or faded propane tanks, Improve the home's curb appeal, and protect the user's home investment.

The spirit of the present invention provides a breadth of scope that includes all methods of making and using it. Any variation on the theme and methodology of accomplishing the same that are not described herein would be considered under the scope of the present invention. Various modifications and alterations of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, which is defined by the accompanying claims. It should be noted that steps recited in any method claims below do not necessarily need to be performed in the order that they are recited. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize variations in performing the steps from the order in which they are recited. In addition, the lack of mention or discussion of a feature, step, or component provides the basis for claims where the absent feature or component is excluded by way of a proviso or similar claim language.

While various embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not of limitation. Likewise, the various diagrams may depict an example architectural or other configuration for the invention, which is done to aid in understanding the features and functionality that may be included in the invention. The invention is not restricted to the illustrated example architectures or configurations, but the desired features may be implemented using a variety of alternative architectures and configurations. Indeed, it will be apparent to one of skill in the art how alternative functional, logical or physical partitioning and configurations may be implemented to implement the desired features of the present invention. Also, a multitude of different constituent module names other than those depicted herein may be applied to the various partitions. Additionally, with regard to flow diagrams, operational descriptions and method claims, the order in which the steps are presented herein shall not mandate that various embodiments be implemented to perform the recited functionality in the same order unless the context dictates otherwise.

Terms and phrases used in this document, and variations thereof, unless otherwise expressly stated, should be construed as open ended as opposed to limiting. As examples of the foregoing: the term “including” should be read as meaning “including, without limitation” or the like; the term “example” is used to provide exemplary instances of the item in discussion, not an exhaustive or limiting list thereof; the terms “a” or “an” should be read as meaning “at least one,” “one or more” or the like; and adjectives such as “conventional,” “traditional,” “normal,” “standard,” “known” and terms of similar meaning should not be construed as limiting the item described to a given time period or to an item available as of a given time, but instead should be read to encompass conventional, traditional, normal, or standard technologies that may be available or known now or at any time in the future. Likewise, where this document refers to technologies that would be apparent or known to one of ordinary skill in the art, such technologies encompass those apparent or known to the skilled artisan now or at any time in the future.

A group of items linked with the conjunction “and” should not be read as requiring that each and every one of those items be present in the grouping, but rather should be read as “and/or” unless expressly stated otherwise. Similarly, a group of items linked with the conjunction “or” should not be read as requiring mutual exclusivity among that group, but rather should also be read as “and/or” unless expressly stated otherwise. Furthermore, although items, elements or components of the invention may be described or claimed in the singular, the plural is contemplated to be within the scope thereof unless limitation to the singular is explicitly stated. The presence of broadening words and phrases such as “one or more,” “at least,” “but not limited to” or other like phrases in some instances shall not be read to mean that the narrower case is intended or required in instances where such broadening phrases may be absent. The use of the term “module” does not imply that the components or functionality described or claimed as part of the module are all configured in a common package. Indeed, any or all of the various components of a module, whether control logic or other components, may be combined in a single package or separately maintained and may further be distributed across multiple locations.

Additionally, the various embodiments set forth herein are described in terms of exemplary block diagrams, flow charts and other illustrations. As will become apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art after reading this document, the illustrated embodiments and their various alternatives may be implemented without confinement to the illustrated examples. For example, block diagrams and their accompanying description should not be construed as mandating a particular architecture or configuration.

The previous description of the disclosed embodiments is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the present invention. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention.

Although the invention is described above in terms of various exemplary embodiments and implementations, it should be understood that the various features, aspects and functionality described in one or more of the individual embodiments are not limited in their applicability to the particular embodiment with which they are described, but instead may be applied, alone or in various combinations, to one or more of the other embodiments of the invention, whether or not such embodiments are described and whether or not such features are presented as being a part of a described embodiment. Thus the breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments. Thus, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown herein but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A cover system, comprising:

a propane tank to house 500 gallons of fuel and having a propane tank regulator line;

a camouflaged body adapted to house said propane tank with propane tank control knobs therein, the body having a camouflaged rigid shell approximately four feet wide, 1ten feet long and 51 inches tall with one or more air vents on the camouflaged shell, wherein the body insulates and protects the propane tank regulator line;

a lid on the body to allow access to the propane tank control knobs with a predetermined girth for meter reading, servicing and filling the propane tank and a child-proof protective cover for propane tanks for child safety; and

means for securing the camouflaged body to a support structure.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the support structure comprises a side of a building.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the top lid comprises a maintenance free tank cover.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the body comprises a cost effective tank cover.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the body is nestable to reduce shipping costs.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the body comprises a landscape shape to blend with existing landscaping.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the body housing controls an expansion of propane in hot weather.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the body forms an aesthetic product to increase property value.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the body hides one or more eyesores from a property.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the body forms a child-proof protective cover for propane tanks to enhance child safety.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the body comprises recycled plastic.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein the body comprises insulation to keep a propane tank regulator from freezing in cold weather.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein the body prevents a propane tank regulator line from being crushed by heavy snow fall.

13. The system of claim 1, wherein the body is shaped as a large boulder, a dinosaur, and elephant sitting at rest, a stepped waterfall or sitting bench and.

14. The system of claim 1, wherein the body comprises air vents on one side with similar air vents on an opposite side and air vents on one or more ends, mid-body locations or top.

15. A cover system, comprising: wherein the body is insulated to control an expansion of propane in hot weather and to keep a propane tank regulator from freezing in cold weather and a propane tank regulator line from being crushed by heavy snow fall.

a camouflaged body adapted to house a propane tank with propane tank control knobs therein, the body having a camouflaged shell with one or more air vents on the camouflaged shell, the body having a landscape shape to blend with existing landscaping and forming a child-proof protective cover for propane tanks to enhance child safety;

air vents on one side with similar air vents on an opposite side, air vents on one or more ends, mid-body locations or top;

a lid on the body to allow access to the propane tank control knobs; and

stake access holes for securing the body to a support structure,

16. A method to cover a propane tank located on a property, comprising:

providing a shell that covers, hides and protects the propane tank containing 500 gallons of fuel, the body having a camouflaged rigid shell approximately four feet wide, 1ten feet long and 51 inches tall with one or more air vents on the camouflaged shell, wherein the body insulates and protects the propane tank regulator line and secured to a support structure; and

beautifying and blending with the current landscape and enhancing the value of the property.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the camouflaged shell is secured to a building with the propane tank in a vertical position.

18. The method of claim 17, comprising nesting the body to reduce shipping cost.

19. The method of claim 16, comprising child proofing the propane tank with a lock.

20. The method of claim 16, comprising insulating the propane tank.