PORTABLE FIRE TABLE

Abstract

A portable fire table is configured for use with a fuel tank. The portable fire table includes a base assembly, an upper assembly, and a lid. The base assembly includes a seat for a fuel tank. In some embodiments, the upper assembly includes an outer wall configured to surround the fuel tank and extending from a lower end of the upper assembly to an upper end of the upper assembly, a burner towards the upper end of the upper assembly, and a burner tray having a support surface extending beneath the burner and an upper rim. The lid is configured to be removably secured to the upper ridge of the burner tray.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 63/220,354, titled “PORTABLE FIRE TABLE,” filed Jul. 9, 2021, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety for all purposes.

BACKGROUND OF DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates to a portable fire table. The portable fire table may be used, for example, as a portable heating appliance or a portable decorative appliance.

SUMMARY OF DISCLOSURE

One aspect of the disclosure is directed to portable fire table for use with a fuel tank, the portable fire table comprising a base assembly, an upper assembly, and a lid. The base assembly includes a seat for a fuel tank. The upper assembly includes an outer wall configured to surround the fuel tank and extending from a lower end of the upper assembly to an upper end of the upper assembly; a burner towards the upper end of the upper assembly; and a burner tray having a support surface extending beneath the burner and an upper ledge. The lid is configured to be removably secured to the upper ledge of the burner tray.

In some embodiments, the base assembly further includes a first threaded surface and the upper assembly further includes a second threaded surface at the lower end configured to be secured to the first threaded surface of the base assembly.

In some embodiments, the seat includes a positioning ring for encircling a base of the fuel tank; a sidewall extending upwardly from the seat; and at least one strap secured to the sidewall that is configured to hold the fuel tank against the sidewall when the fuel tank is positioned on the seat.

In some embodiments, the at least one strap is two straps.

In some embodiments, a middle portion of a first one of the two straps is secured to a middle portion of a second one of the straps so the straps cross over each other when securing the fuel tank on the seat.

In some embodiments, each strap is made of nylon.

In some embodiments, the first threaded surface is an internal threaded surface and the second threaded surface is an external threaded surface.

In some embodiments, the first threaded surface includes interrupted threads and the second threaded surface includes interrupted threads.

In some embodiments, the lid is magnetically secured to the upper ledge of the burner tray.

In some embodiments, the portable fire table further comprises an access port defined in the outer wall of the upper assembly, and a panel removably secured within the access port.

In some embodiments, the portable fire table further comprises the fuel tank.

In some embodiments, the portable fire table further comprises a steel ring secured beneath the ledge, and at least one magnet secured to the lid.

In some embodiments, an upper surface of the lid is flush with the upper end of the upper assembly when the lid is seated on the ledge.

In some embodiments, internal components of the upper assembly are confined to a radial segment of a main body of the upper assembly body of 180 degrees, when viewed from the top.

In some embodiments, the portable fire table consists essentially of the base assembly, the upper assembly, and the lid.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is directed to a portable fire table for use with a fuel tank, the portable fire table comprising a base assembly, an upper assembly, and a lid. The base assembly includes a seat for a fuel tank; an outer wall extending from a lower end of the base assembly to an upper end of the base assembly; a burner towards the upper end of the base assembly; and a burner tray having a support surface extending beneath the burner and an upper ledge. The upper assembly includes a sliding panel secured to the outer wall of the base assembly, the outer wall and the sliding panel together configured to surround the fuel tank. The lid is configured to be removably secured to the upper ledge of the burner tray.

In some embodiments, the portable fire table consists essentially of the base assembly, the upper assembly, and the lid.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings are not intended to be drawn to scale. In the drawings, each identical or nearly identical component that is illustrated in various figures is represented by a like numeral. For purposes of clarity, not every component may be labeled in every drawing. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a fire table of the present disclosure when it is ready to be transported;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the fire table of FIG. 1 in use;

FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the fire table of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is another exploded view thereof, with the upper assembly moved further from the base assembly;

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of the base assembly;

FIG. 5B is another view thereof with a fuel tank secured to the base assembly;

FIG. 6 is a cross sectional view of the fire table of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is a perspective sectional view of the fire table of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a tank placed on the seat of the base assembly with a safety cap attached to the fuel tank;

FIG. 9 is a bottom view of an upper assembly of the fire table of FIG. 1;

FIG. 10 is a cross sectional view of a burner tray of the fire table of FIG. 1;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the fire table of FIG. 1 with a skillet attachment in place of the lid;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the fire table of FIG. 1 with a wind guard in place of the lid;

FIG. 13A is a perspective view of the fire table of FIG. 1 being placed on a transportation support stand;

FIG. 13B is a perspective view thereof, with the fire table of FIG. 1 received in the transportation support stand;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a fire table of the present disclosure;

FIG. 15 is another perspective view thereof being opened;

FIG. 16 is another perspective view thereof in an open condition;

FIG. 17A is another perspective view thereof in a closed condition;

FIG. 17B is another perspective view thereof in a closed condition;

FIG. 18A is a partial perspective view thereof;

FIG. 18B is a partial perspective view thereof;

FIG. 19 is a partial perspective view thereof being opened;

FIG. 20 is a cross sectional view thereof;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a fire table of the present disclosure

FIG. 22 is a partially exploded view thereof;

FIG. 23 is a perspective view thereof in an open condition; and

FIG. 24 is another perspective view thereof in an open condition.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

This disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” “having,” “containing,” “involving,” and variations thereof herein, is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items.

Existing portable fire tables have limited functionality. Many portable fire tables use wood as a fuel source. The combustion of wood creates smoke which is an annoyance in a bonfire setting. The burning of wood also creates ash and soot, which requires the fire table to be cleaned before transport. Additionally, some states and counties have outlawed the burning of wood, making this type of product unusable for those individuals located in areas that ban wood fueled fires.

Some existing fire tables that use a standard 20 pound liquid propane canister as a fuel source contain the canister within the fire table, but such fire tables are not easily portable by a person while the fire table is fully assembled.

Fire tables that use external propane tanks have increased transportation and set up time and are cumbersome to use. The separated nature of the fuel canister from the fire table is also visually unappealing.

The present disclosure provides a portable outdoor appliance containing a fire emitting device which is fueled by a readily accessible fuel tank that is secured and stored within the appliance. In some embodiments, the portable outdoor appliance containing a fire emitting device is a portable fire table. In some embodiments, the fuel tank is a standard 20 pound liquid propane canister.

The main components of the fire table include a base, an upper assembly body, and a lid. The base and the upper assembly body may be secured together to enclose a fuel tank. The lid may be placed on the upper assembly body to enclose a burner and fire media of the upper assembly.

The upper assembly includes a main body. In some embodiments, the main body is made of a non-corrosive, heat resistant material. The main body houses a fire emitting device equipped with a safety shutoff, an ignition system and hoses and wires for the fire emitting device, safety shutoff, and ignition system to function in their intended use.

The fire emitting device is located in a recessed burner tray at an upper end of the main body where combustion is clearly visible to those observing the fire table when it is in use. The combustion takes place within a recessed burner tray at the upper end of the main body where fire media and a pilot igniter are also held. The use of fire media is intended to disperse heat and/or increase the aesthetic appeal of the fire table.

The ignition system includes a pilot igniter that is intended to trigger the combustion of fuel, such as propane gas, when the burner of the fire table is manually turned on. The pilot ignitor is connected by wire to a spark box that houses a power source, such as one AAA battery, which powers the pilot ignitor.

A spark box is located along the inside face of the main body. In some embodiments, the spark box is located between about 2 inches to about 6 inches below the burner tray.

The main body defines an interior volume beneath the burner tray. The interior volume is intended to house a fuel tank, such as a 20 pound liquid propane tank.

The main body includes one or more handles for lifting the fire table. In some embodiments, there are two recessed handles along the outside face of the main body located between about 3 inches to about 5 inches below the upper end of the fire table. These recessed handles function as finger/hand gripping points that allow the user to easily lift and move the fire table when it is not in use. These gripping points allow a user to transport the fire table.

In some embodiments, one of the recessed handles also houses a manual knob that triggers the ignition system and controls the release of propane gas to the fire emitting device.

In some embodiments, the other recessed handle has a removable/openable panel that allows the user to easily access the top portion of the fuel tank while the fuel tank is secured inside of the body/base of the fire table. This access point allows the user to operate the gas release knob on the fuel tank when the base of the fire table is secured to the main body of the upper assembly. Additionally, this access point allows the user to easily attach a hose to the fuel tank which carries gas from the fuel tank to a valve system controlled by the manual knob located inside of the other recessed handle when the base is secured to the main body of the upper assembly.

Located on the outside face at the bottom of the main body of the upper assembly is a fastening system that interlocks a counterpart on the base of the fire table.

The base supports the fuel tank and includes a fastening mechanism for the fuel tank to be properly secured to the base with minimal to no obstructions that hinder the installment of the fuel tank. A metal ring is located in the center of the base that allows the bottom ring of the propane canister to snugly fit inside of it. The sole function of this ring is to help the user position the fuel tank in its intended location. After the fuel tank has been positioned, it is secured to a sidewall, such as by a nylon strap and buckle. In some embodiments, the sidewall is a solid sheet of material that is fixed to the base. In some embodiments, the sidewall includes a curved surface configured to contact the curved outer surface of the fuel tank.

In some embodiments, the sidewall has two holes, one located near each of its ends that allow nylon straps to be fastened to the sidewall. The outer edge of the base includes a rim. In some embodiments the rim has a height of between about 2 inches and about 3 inches. The rim has a fastening system located on its inside face. This fastening system interlocks with its counterpart located at the bottom of the main body. This fastening system allows for the base and main body to be tightly secured to each other in a way that creates a nearly seamless aesthetic transition between the two pieces.

The lid covers the burner tray of the upper assembly when the fire table is not in use. This protects the burner tray from exterior elements and creates a thermal buffer between the hot burner tray and the user's hands when the user moves the fire table after its immediate use. The lid also functions as a containment system for the fire media that resides in the burner tray. The nature of the lid's securement to the body of the fire table allows the fire table to be stored horizontally without loose fire media escaping its boundaries. In some embodiments, the lid is secured to the top portion of the fire table's body by use of Neodymium magnets. In some embodiments, the magnets are held captive within the profile of the lid and magnetize to a powder coated steel ring located around the outer ridge (or ledge) of the burner tray. Located at the top of the lid is a circular hole that functions as a hand hold for the user to aid them in lifting the lid off the fire table.

Operation of the fire table goes as follows. First, the user must detach the base from the body of the upper assembly of the fire table and insert fuel tank, such as a standard 20 pound liquid propane canister, into the positioning ring located on the base. The user must then secure the fuel tank to the base by utilizing the nylon straps attached to the canister brace. Once the fuel tank is secured, the base of the fire table is fastened to the body by inserting the bottom edge of the body inside of the base's rim and turning the body in a clockwise direction until the fastening component of the body securely interlocks with its inverse counterpart on the base. After that, the user opens/removes the removable/openable panel located along the outside of the body. Now having open access to the upper portion of the propane canister, the user attaches the regulator hose running from the manual valve to the fuel tank and manipulates the valve knob on the fuel tank to an open position. Once the openable/removable panel is moved to a closed position, the user may manipulate the knob located inside of a recess on the body of the upper assembly. At this point the knob may be turned, for example by 45 degrees, towards the on position causing the pilot igniter to be immediately activated and the valve controlling the release of gas to open slightly. During this action, the released gas makes contact with the spark of the pilot igniter and combustion begins to take place. In some embodiments, after holding the knob in this position for 3-5 seconds, a locking mechanism on the valve releases and allows the knob to be turned, for example by a further 45 degrees. This secondary rotation fully opens the gas release valve and maximizes the combustion output of the fire table.

To make the fire table safe for transport, the user turns the valve knob located on the side of the body 90 degrees to its off position. This motion closes the valve and interrupts the flow of propane gas to the fire emitting device. Once combustion ceases, the user will open/remove the panel on the side of the body so that the user may access the upper portion of the fuel tank. Inserting their hand through the access point, the user may manipulate the valve knob on the fuel tank to its closed position. After this, the user may close the access point on the body and the user will wait, for example for a period of 10-15 minutes, for the exposed burner tray to cool down. After this time has passed, the user may secure the lid to the top of the body of the upper assembly. At this point, the fire table is now safe for the user to pick up and move for transportation.

Referring now to FIG. 1, an embodiment of a portable fire table of the present disclosure is generally indicated at 10. As shown in FIG. 2, the portable fire table 10 is configured to provide a flame 12. The portable fire table 10 is configured for use with a fuel tank 14 (FIG. 3) to provide the flame 12. As shown in FIG. 3, the fire table 10 includes a base assembly 16 and an upper assembly 18 that are configured to be secured together to enclose the fuel tank and a lid 20 configured be secured to the upper assembly 18 so that the fire table 10 is portable.

The fire table 10 has a lower end 22 and an upper end 24 (FIG. 1). When viewed from the top, the fire table 10 may have an outer profile that is square, rectangular, cylindrical, hexagonal, octagonal, or another rectilinear or oblong shape. In some embodiments, none of the portions of the fire table 10 protrude outside of a cylindrical profile, or at least substantially cylindrical profile. This mitigates the possibility of unrelated items snagging on the fire table when the fire table is stored in the back of a vehicle or other tight space.

In some embodiments, the length and width of the fire table 10 are in the range of about 14 inches to about 35 inches. In some embodiments, the fire table 10 has a width that is no greater than 17 inches. In some embodiments, the height of the fire table 10 is in the range of about 20 inches to about 40 inches. In some embodiments, the fire table 10 has a height between about 24 inches and about 28 inches.

In some embodiments, the fire table 10 has an overall weight of between about 50 pounds and about 85 pounds when the fire table 10 has a filled 20 pound propane canister inside of the fire table. In some embodiments, the fire table 10 has an overall weight of between about 70 pounds and about 85 pounds when the fire table 10 has a filled 20 pound propane canister inside of the fire table.

As shown in FIG. 4, the base assembly 16 is configured to support the fuel tank 14, such as a propane tank. In some embodiments the propane tank is a 20 pound propane tank.

The base assembly 16 includes a seat 26 and a sidewall 28 that support the fuel tank 14.

The seat 26 is configured to support the weight of the fuel tank 14 when the base assembly 16 is placed on a surface, such as the ground. The seat 26 includes a positioning ring 30 that extends upwardly from a planar portion 32 of the base assembly 16.

The positioning ring 30 is configured to encircle the lower end of the fuel tank 14. The positioning ring 30 helps a user place the fuel tank 14 in the proper location on the base assembly 16, and prevents the fuel tank 14 from sliding within the fire table 10 during transportation of the fire table 10.

In some embodiments, the positioning ring 30 is slightly wider than the diameter of a rim of the base of the fuel tank 14. In some embodiments, the positioning ring 30 has a height of at least 0.75 inch and no greater than 1 inch.

The sidewall 28 extends upwardly from the planar portion 32 of the base assembly 16. The sidewall 28 helps brace the fuel tank 14 to prevent movement of the fuel tank 14 relative to the planar portion 32 of the base 16. The sidewall 28 provides lateral support for the fuel tank 14 to prevent the fuel tank 14 from tipping over when the fuel tank 14 is seated in the positioning ring 30.

The sidewall 28 includes at least one hole to receive a strap to be secured around the fuel tank. As shown in FIG. 5A, there are two holes 34 in the sidewall 28 for receiving a strap. Extending within each hole 34 is a beam 36 around which a strap may be looped or otherwise fastened.

The base assembly includes at least one strap secured to the sidewall 28 that is configured to hold a fuel tank 14 against the sidewall 28 when the fuel tank 14 is positioned on the seat 26. Each strap also holds the fuel tank against the sidewall and the seat when the portable fire table 10 is tilted during transportation of the portable fire table 10.

In the embodiment of FIG. 5A, the base assembly 16 includes a first strap 38A and a second strap 38B that are each received on a respective beam 36 extending within a respective one of the holes 34 defined in the sidewall 28. Each strap 38A, 38B is configured to be secured around at least a portion of the fuel tank 14 to hold the fuel tank 14 against the upwardly extending sidewall 28 and/or the planar portion 32 of the base assembly 16.

The first strap 38A has a first end 40A that is secured to the beam 36 in a first one of the holes 34 defined in the sidewall 28 and a second end 42A that is free. The second strap 38B has a first end 40B that is secured to the beam 36 in a second one of the holes 34 defined in the sidewall 28 and a second end 42B that is free.

A middle portion 44A of the first strap 38A overlaps a middle portion 44B of the second strap 38B. Stitching 46 secures the middle portion of the first strap to the middle portion of the second strap. This cross-strap configuration improves the portability of the fire table 10. The cross-strap configuration applies a vertical downward retention force on the fuel tank 14 to hold the fuel tank 14 against the seat 26, thereby limiting and/or preventing vertical movement of the fuel tank 14 with respect to the seat 26 when the fire table 10 is transported. The cross-strap configuration also applies a lateral retention force on the fuel tank 14 to hold the fuel tank 14 against the sidewall 28, thereby limiting and/or preventing lateral movement of the fuel tank 14 with respect to the sidewall 28 when the fire table 10 is transported.

A user may secure a hook 48A at the second end 42A of the first strap 38A to a first hole defined in a first bracket, such as bracket 50 in FIG. 6, secured to the planar portion 32 of the base assembly 16, and may secure a hook 48B at the second end 42B of the second strap 38B to a first hole defined in a second bracket, such as bracket 50 in FIG. 6, secured to the planar portion 32 of the base assembly 16. In this way, the two straps 38A, 38B hold the fuel tank 14 against the sidewall 28, thereby limiting lateral motion of the fuel tank 14 with respect to the planar portion 32 of a base assembly 16. Additionally, the two straps 38A, 38B hold the fuel tank 14 against the planar portion 32 of the base assembly 16 in the region of the seat 26, thereby limiting vertical motion of the fuel tank 14 with respect to the planar portion 32 of the base assembly 16.

FIG. 5B shows the straps 38A, 38B securing the fuel tank 14 to the base assembly 16.

In some embodiments these brackets are at least seven inches apart and the bracket the hooks latch onto is elevated at least 0.5 inch from the planar portion of the base, thereby providing an attachment of the hooks to the brackets in a way that secures the fuel tank 14 from movement within the fire table 10 during transportation of the fire table 10.

In some embodiments, each hook 48A, 48B is a metal hook that is sewn onto the respective strap 38A, 38B.

In some embodiments, each strap 38A, 38B is securable to the seat by buckle clips instead of the hook and buckle arrangement described above.

In some embodiments, a widest dimension of a span between the two straps 38A, 38B is less than or equal to 8 inches. In some embodiments, the widest dimension of the span between the two straps 38A, 38B does not exceed 7.25 inches. In some embodiments, the widest dimension of the span between the two straps 38A, 38B does not exceed 6.25 inches. In some embodiments, the widest dimension of the span between the two straps 38A, 38B is about 7.25 inches.

In some embodiments, each strap 38A, 38B has a width of about 1.5 inches.

Each strap 38A, 38B may be made of any material suitable for securing the tank against the sidewall and the seat. In some embodiments, each strap is made of nylon. Because nylon is a relatively soft material, the nylon mitigates the noise produced when moving the portable fire table. Any shifting of the fuel tank 14 relative to the nylon straps does not result in a loud noise.

In some embodiments, the brackets 50 are made of aluminum.

The base assembly 16 is configured to be secured to the upper assembly 18. In some embodiments, the base assembly 16 includes a threaded surface that is configured to engage a threaded surface on the upper assembly. To reduce buildup of foreign material, the external thread or female fastener located on the base is inward facing. The external thread or male fastener located on the body is outward facing. In some embodiments, a body 19 of the upper assembly is able to move vertically no more than 0.0625 inch relative to the base when fastened to the base.

The embodiment of FIG. 4 includes an upwardly extending lip 52 at a perimeter of the planar portion 32 of the base assembly 16. The upwardly extending lip 52 has internal threads 54. The internal threads 54 are interrupted threads. The internal threads 54 are configured to be secured to a threaded surface on the upper assembly to hold the base assembly and upper assembly together. The upwardly extending lip 52 is configured to prevent dirt and other debris on a ground surface from contacting the upper surface of the planar portion 32 of the base assembly 16 and the internal threads 54 when a user places the base assembly 16 on a ground surface.

The internal threads 54 have a pitch selected so that the base assembly is securable to the upper assembly when a user rotates the upper assembly 45 degrees relative to the base assembly. Similarly, a user may unsecure the upper assembly from the base assembly by rotating the upper assembly 45 degrees in an opposite direction relative to the base assembly.

In some embodiments, the internal threading is full threading. In some embodiments, the base assembly is secured to the upper assembly by other securing means. For example, in some embodiments, the base assembly is securable to the upper assembly by one or more locking lugs, one or more locking pins, one or more screws, and/or one or more other fasteners.

The upper assembly 18 is configured to be secured to the base assembly 16 to enclose the fuel tank 14 along with other components of the fire table 10. The upper assembly 18 extends from a lower end that is securable to the base assembly to an upper end that is configured to provide a flame.

The body 19 of the upper assembly 18 includes an outer wall 60 that is configured to surround the fuel tank 14. The outer wall 60 extends from the lower end of the upper assembly 18 to the upper end of the upper assembly 18.

The body 19 of the upper assembly 18 includes a second threaded surface located at the lower end of the upper assembly 18 and configured to be secured to the first threaded surface of the base assembly 16. The embodiment of FIG. 6 includes a downwardly extending lip 62 at a perimeter of the lower end of the upper assembly 60. The downwardly extending lip 62 includes external threads 64 that are configured to be secured to the internal threads 54 on the lip 52 of the base assembly 16 to hold the base assembly 16 and the upper assembly 18 together. The external threads 64 are interrupted threads.

The external threads 64 have a pitch selected so that the upper assembly is securable to the base assembly when a user rotates the upper assembly 45 degrees relative to the base assembly. Similarly, a user may unsecure the upper assembly from the base assembly by rotating the upper assembly 45 degrees in an opposite direction relative to the base assembly. In some embodiments, the external threading is full threading. In some embodiments, the base assembly is secured to the upper assembly by other securing means. For example, in some embodiments, the base assembly is securable to the upper assembly by one or more locking lugs, one or more locking pins, one or more screws, and/or one or more other fasteners.

The outer wall includes two handles 70. Each handle 70 includes an aperture 72 that is defined in the outer wall and an internally extending flange 74. In some embodiments, the internally extending flange 74 is formed by piercing the outer wall 60 to form a U-shaped cut in the outer wall 60. The U-shaped cut in the outer wall 60 defines a leaf in the outer wall 60, and the leaf forms the flange 74.

Each flange 74 is bent inwardly to a substantially horizontal orientation, and a free end of the flange 74 is bent further to include an upward curvature 76. In this way, a user may place his or her hands in each aperture 72 and against a lower surface of the respective flange 74. The user may then lift upwardly against the lower surface of the flange either to lift the upper assembly 18 or to lift the upper assembly 18 and the base assembly 16 when the upper assembly 18 is secured to the base assembly 16.

Each flange 74 provides a grip point. In some embodiments, the fire table 10 weighs between 70 pounds and 80 pounds when a filled 20 pound tank is secured within the fire table 10. Given this weight, a strong but comfortable gripping point allows the fire table to be transported easily. In some embodiments, two grip points allow for two people to carry the fire table. The upward curvature of the free end of each grip point curves allow the user a stronger hold on the appliance.

The top of the fire table 10 is free of sharp edges that would cut into the user's hand when transporting the fire table 10.

In some embodiments, the distance between the top of the fire table 10 and each flange 74 is about 3 inches, to improve comfort to the user's hands.

The number of hand gripping points that are included on the fire table may range from one to five, depending on the overall size, weight and shape of the fire table.

An access point 80 is provided beneath a first one of the handles 70, as shown on the right side of FIG. 6. The access point 80 includes a removable panel 82 that a user may selective secure on the opening beneath the first one of the handles 70. The access point 80 makes the process of connecting and disconnecting the fuel tank 14 to a regulator hose easy for the user and in a way that limits the amount of foreign material that may enter the inside of interior of the upper assembly 18 during this process. Without this access point 80, the user would have to attach a hose 86 (FIG. 7) to the fuel tank 14 when the base and body are separated. When separated, the inside of the upper assembly 18 is very susceptible to getting dirty. In order to safely operate the fire table, it is important to keep the fire table's inside components as clean as possible. Without the access point 80, the user would have to separate the base assembly 16 from the upper assembly 18 twice per use, including once before operation and once after operation of the fire table 10. By providing the access point 80 to allow the user to connect the hose 86 to the fuel tank 14 while the upper assembly 18 is secured to the base assembly 16, the user only needs to separate the base assembly 16 from the upper assembly 18 when the fuel tank needs to be refueled.

In some embodiments, the access point 80 is at least four inches in width and at least four inches in height. In some embodiments, the access point includes rounded corners to decrease snagging during storage or use of the fire table or when a user is placing their hand through the access point.

In some embodiments, the removable panel 82 may be secured to the outer wall of the upper assembly by a fastener. In some embodiments, the fastener is a magnetic fastener. In some embodiments, the fastener is configured to resist up to 6.6 pounds of force before the fastener allows the removable panel to be removed from the access point. In some embodiments, the removable panel is secured by a hinge, a locking tab, a sliding mechanism, or a pivoting mechanism.

The operating nature of the panel 82 that reveals the access point on the side of the body may vary from a removable panel held in place by tabs or lugs to an operable panel that opens by use of hinges, sliders or rotary motion.

A manual knob 88 is seated in a recess 90 on the upper assembly. A user may rotate the manual knob 88 to control operation of a burner 92 of the fire table 10.

In some embodiments, the manual knob 88 does not protrude beyond the outer surface of the outer wall 60 of the upper assembly 18. This mitigates potential snagging that could occur during transportation or storage of the fire table 10.

The burner 92 is positioned in a burner tray 94 towards the upper end of the upper assembly 18.

The burner tray 94 that has a support surface 96 extending beneath the burner 92 and also has an upper burner ledge (upper ridge of the burner) 98.

A wall 100 extends vertically from the upper ledge 98 to an upper surface 113 of the body 19 of the upper assembly 18. The height of the vertical wall 100 is configured so that an upper surface 111 (FIG. 10) of the lid 20 is flush with the upper surface 113 of the body 19 of the upper assembly 18 when the lid 20 is seated on the ledge 98.

Ventilation holes 102 are defined along the vertical wall 100 to allow air to pass in and out of the inner volume of the fire table 10 when the lid 20 is removed. The burner ledge 98 separates the ventilation holes 102 from the fire media.

Additionally, the burner ledge 98 serves as a support surface for accessories, such as a wind guard and a skillet attachment. The inset nature of the burner ledge 98 keeps the accessories from falling into the burner tray 94 or off of the fire table 10.

In some embodiments, the width of the burner ledge 98 is 0.75 inch.

The burner ledge 98 is configured to be magnetically fastened to the lid 20. In some embodiments, the burner ledge 98 includes a ferrous material. In some embodiments, the burner ledge includes at least one magnet.

In FIG. 6, the burner ledge 98 includes a steel ring 106 secured to a lower surface of the burner ledge 98. In some embodiments, the stainless steel of the burner tray 94 is not magnetic, so the steel ring 106 allows the magnetic lid 20 to be properly secured to the ledge 98 at the upper end of the fire table 10.

In some embodiments, the steel ring is not thinner than 14 gauge (0.0747 inch).

The upper assembly 18 houses components that are configured to connect the fuel tank 14 to the burner 92 and to control operation of the fire table 10. The upper assembly 18 houses a canister valve knob 110 (FIG. 6), a sparker box 112, a control valve 84 (FIG. 7), the regulator hose 86, corrugated stainless steel hose 87, electrical wiring 114, and a thermocouple tube 116.

The valve of the fuel tank may be opened and closed by rotation of the canister valve knob 110. The canister valve knob 110 operates the propane canister valve which releases gas to the regulator hose 86. The control valve 84 releases gas from the regulator hose 86 to the corrugated stainless steel hose 87 when the control valve 84 is in an open position. The control valve 84 prevents gas from advancing to the corrugated stainless steel hose 87 when the control valve 84 is in a closed position.

The corrugated stainless steel hose 87 is configured to carry gas from the control valve 84 to the burner 92. When the control valve 84 is open, gas travels from the fuel tank 14 to the burner 92.

The sparker box 112 sends an ignition signal to a pilot igniter when the control knob is operated. The igniter is located inside a barrier 93. A thermocouple sensor is located inside the barrier. The electrical wiring 114 connects the spark box to the pilot igniter. The thermocouple tube 116 sends a signal to the control valve 84 that shuts off gas flow when the thermocouple detects an absence of flames.

In some embodiments, the thermocouple tube 116 is made of one or more materials including copper.

The regulator hose 86 carries gas from the fuel tank 14 to the control valve 84. The regulator hose 86 is equipped with a regulator that regulates inlet gas pressure. In some embodiments the length of the hose is no greater than 21 inches.

The regulator hose 86 is secured to an internal surface of a body 19 of the upper assembly 18 by a hose securement 120 (FIG. 7). The hose securement 120 may be a hook or a ring. In FIG. 7, the hose securement 120 is a hook that holds the hose 86 against the inner surface of the upper assembly 18. The hose securement 120 keeps the gas hose 86 from tangling on itself or other components during transportation of the fire table 10. In some embodiments, the free hanging portion of the hose is no longer than 15 inches, to prevent the hose from touching the ground with the upper assembly is disconnected from the base assembly and when the upper assembly is placed directly on the ground. This helps to mitigate the buildup of foreign material around the nozzle of the hose.

As shown in FIG. 8, the fire table 10 includes a safety cap 123 that may be selectively placed over the valve port on a fuel tank 14. The safety cap 123 allows the fire table 10 to be stored on its side (horizontally). This improves the portable nature of the fire table, as it can be safely stored horizontally in spaces like the trunk of a car with this cap on.

Storing a fuel tank such as a propane canister horizontally is considered to be extremely dangerous. While in a horizontal position, the valve safety inside the canister can be overridden if the tank is full, allowing the canister to leak dangerous liquid propane into the body of the fire table. The safety cap 123 prevents leaking in the case that the valve safety on the canister is overridden.

The internal components that facilitate the distribution of gas and its ignition are located on the opposite side of the upper assembly 18 from the access point 80. In some embodiments, the internal components of the main body are generally confined to a radial segment of the main body of 180 degrees, as shown by the area to the right of line 900 in the top view of FIG. 9. In some embodiments, the internal components of the main body are entirely confined to a radial segment of the main body of 180 degrees, as shown by the area to the right of line 900 in the top view of FIG. 9. This arrangement ensures that the access point and the open space is unobstructed so a user may easily attach the hose to the fuel tank without needing to work around the internal components. The arrangement of these internal components and the ways in which they are attached to the main body also mitigates the possibility of hoses and wires tangling when the fire table is being transported. Their location towards the upper end of the main body also minimizes their possible exposure to foreign material.

Turning now to the lid, the lid 20 is substantially planar. The lid has a circular outer perimeter. The lid includes a handle that allows the user to pull the lid away from the upper assembly 18. In some embodiments, the handle extends upwardly from the upper surface of the lid. In the embodiment of FIG. 10, the handle is a circular hole 130 defined at the center of the lid 20. The circular hole 130 is configured to allow a user to extend a finger into the circular hole and then pull that finger against the inner surface of the lid 20 to remove the lid 20 from the upper assembly 18. In some embodiments, the diameter of the circular hole is at least one inch. In some embodiments, the diameter of the circular hole is in the range of about 1 inch to about 2 inches.

The lid 20 is configured to be removably secured to the upper ledge 98 of the burner tray 94. The lid 20 may be secured to the upper assembly by a fastener, such as a magnetic fastener, a threaded fastener, a locking pin, a locking lug, a locking tab, or another fastener. In some embodiments, a threaded fastener includes a screw or a bolt. In some embodiments, the lid includes a threaded surface that engages a threaded surface on the upper assembly.

In some embodiments, at least one magnet in the lid is used to secure the lid to the upper assembly. In some embodiments, at least three magnets in the lid are used to secure the lid to the upper assembly. In some embodiments, at least four magnets in the lid are used to secure the lid to the upper assembly. In the embodiment of FIG. 10, the lid 20 is secured to the upper assembly 18 by four magnets 122 secured to a lower surface of the lid 20. Each magnet is inset into the lid 20. Each magnet 122 is a cylindrical ring that is received in a recess 124 defined on the lower surface of the lid. Each magnet 122 is configured to attract the lid to the ledge on the upper assembly. In some embodiments, the cross section of each magnet ring has a diameter of about 0.5 inch and a height of about 0.125 inch.

In some embodiments, each magnet is a Neodymium magnet.

In some embodiments, each magnet has a pull force of 6.6 pounds.

Various accessories may be used with the fire assembly.

In some embodiments, a skillet attachment 140 is placed on the burner ledge 98. The skillet attachment provides a cooking surface at its upper end. In some embodiments, the skillet attachment 140 is configured for use as a stove, such as a camping stove. In some embodiments, the skillet attachment 140 is configured for barbecue. In some embodiments, the skillet attachment is made of cast iron. In some embodiments, a cooking surface of the skillet attachment has a thickness of 0.25 inch.

In some embodiments, a wind guard 142 is placed on the burner ledge 98. In some embodiments, the wind guard 142 includes a tubular portion to protect the flame of the fire table from the wind. The tubular portion may be placed on the burner ledge at the upper end of the fire table to shield the burner from wind, particularly when wind speeds would otherwise prevent ignition of the burner or greatly reduce the size of the flame. In some embodiments, the tubular portion is made of glass. In some embodiments, the wind guard consists of the tubular portion and the tubular portion is made of glass. In some embodiments, the tubular portion has a diameter in the range of about 13 inches to about 14 inches. In some embodiments, the tubular portion has a height of about 5 inches. In some embodiments, the glass is about 0.25 inches thick.

As shown in FIGS. 13A and 13 B, in some embodiments, the fire table 10 includes a transportation stand 150 that prevents the fire table 10 from tipping over during transportation when the fire table 10 is positioned vertically in a moving vehicle. The transportation stand 150 protects the fire table 10 and surrounding objects from damage that would occur if the fire table 10 tipped over during transportation. The transportation stand 150 includes an annular inner surface 151 to abut the cylindrical outer surface of the lip 52 of the base assembly 16. In some embodiments, the transportation stand 150 is made of aluminum. In some embodiments, the transportation stand may be fastened to the base assembly 16. In some embodiments, the transportation stand 150 is configured to frictionally receive the base assembly 16. In some embodiments, the transportation stand 150 has an inner diameter that is configured to receive the outer surface of the base assembly and an outer diameter that is about 6 inches greater than the diameter of the outer surface of the base assembly. In some embodiments, the transportation stand has a height of about 3 inches.

In some embodiments, the burner tray 94 has a depth that is no greater than 3 inches. Reducing the depth of the burner tray minimizes the weight of the fire table 10, because less media is carried within the burner tray.

In some embodiments, the lid 20 of the fire table may be fastened at the upper end of the fire table 10 to retain up to 10 pounds of fire media when the fire table 10 is positioned vertically during storage and transportation.

In some embodiments, the media that is contained in the burner tray 94 comprises glass. In some embodiments, up to 10 pounds of media is contained in the burner tray.

In some embodiments, the base assembly and the upper assembly are made of metal. In some embodiments, the base assembly and the upper assembly are made of aluminum. Aluminum is sufficiently lightweight and has a sufficient corrosion resistance to allow the fire table to be portable.

In some embodiments, the base assembly and the upper assembly are made of aluminum that has a thickness of 0.125 inch. This thickness of aluminum provides sufficient structural rigidity to the fire table to resist denting and warping of the body of the fire table during normal use and during transportation of the fire table.

Embodiments of the fire table of the present disclosure separate the bottom of the fire table from the exterior environment. This greatly reduces the potential for foreign material to enter the interior of the fire table, which would create a risk of damaging internal components of the fire table during transportation and use.

The base assembly is configured so that when the upper assembly is fully secured to the base assembly, the gas orifice on the propane canister is in alignment with the access point 80 on the upper assembly. This ensures that connection/disconnection of the regulator hose and safety cap from the access point can be easily done. For example, the seat and the sidewall of the base assembly facilitate proper orientation of the fuel tank on the base assembly.

FIG. 14 shows another embodiment of a fire table of the present disclosure, generally indicated at 200. The fire table 200 of FIG. 15 includes a base assembly 202, an upper assembly 204, and a lid 206. The fire table 200 of FIG. 14 is configured to enclose a fuel tank 14 (FIG. 15) and includes similar internal components for providing a flame as the fire table 10 of FIG. 1.

The upper assembly 204 includes a sliding panel 208 that is securable to the base assembly 202. A user may move the sliding panel 208 relative to the base assembly 202 to replace the fuel tank 14 and/or to access the other internal components of the fire table 200.

When seated, the sliding panel 208 may only be removed by sliding the sliding panel 208 in an upwards direction, as shown in FIG. 15. The sliding panel 208 is joined to the body of the appliance via a tongue-and-groove joint (FIG. 18). Opposing edges of the panel 208 each have a vertically extending tongue 210 that is received in a respective vertically extending groove 211 on the base assembly.

In some embodiments, the joining edges of the panel may have two tongues or two grooves. In some embodiments, operation of the access panel 208 relies on a tight tolerance between the tongue-and-groove joints to create a frictional force that will hold the access panel 208 in its open position. In some embodiments, the tongue-and-groove joint has a frictional force of at least 3 pounds. In some embodiments, the tongue-and-groove joint has a frictional force of no greater than 10 pounds.

In some embodiments, the sliding panel 208 affixes to the base assembly 202 and operates in a vertical motion via a ball bearing and rail system, a roller and rail system, a rail glide system, a telescoping slide system, and/or any other linearly moving structures. In some embodiments there is only one vertical member/rail that facilitates the sliding/gliding of the panel. In some embodiments, this sliding panel 208 includes a tab/dowel, a radial locking system, and/or magnets to hold the panel 208 in its open position onto the base assembly 202.

One advantage of the sliding panel 208 of the upper assembly 204 is that when the fire table 200 is placed on an uneven surface, such as a dirt field or a gravel surface, a user moves the sliding panel 208 vertically to open or close the fire table 200, and the sliding panel 208 will not get caught on the uneven surface or drag debris from the uneven surface into the interior of the fire table 200. The uneven surface will not interfere with movement of the sliding panel 208 from a closed configuration of the fire table 200 to an open configuration of the fire table 200.

The connection of the upper assembly 204 to the base assembly 202 makes the fire table easy to manufacture and is easy for a user to operate.

The sliding panel 208 includes a hole 212 that includes a ledge. A user may grip the hole 212 to slide the panel 208 upwards.

To lift the entire fire table 200, a user inserts his or her hand all the way in the hole 212 to grab a floating grip point 214 of the base assembly, A user grabs a panel ledge and applies upward force to open the panel.

The lid 206 is the same as the lid 20 of FIG. 1, but the lid of FIG. 14 is configured to be secured over a burner located at an upper end of the base assembly 202, rather than an upper end of the upper assembly, as in the embodiment of FIG. 1.

Unlike the base assembly of the fire table of FIG. 1, the base assembly 202 of FIG. 14 includes an outer wall 216 that extends partially around the fuel tank 14. Together, the outer wall 216 of the base assembly 202 and the sliding panel 208 of the upper assembly 204 surround the fuel tank 14. In this way, the outer wall 216 of the base assembly 202 and the sliding panel 208 of the upper assembly 204 form an outer shell of the fire table 200. The outer shell is split in half vertically. When viewed from above, the outer wall 208 of the base assembly 202 spans a 180 degree arc, as shown by the line 1400 in FIG. 14, and the sliding panel 208 of the upper assembly 206 spans a 180 degree arc so that together the two span 360 degrees around the fuel tank 14.

The base assembly 202 further includes a burner tray, two grip points formed on the outer wall 216, and a seat for supporting the fuel tank 14. The seat includes a positioning ring 218 and a side wall 220, similar to the embodiment of FIG. 1. The base assembly 202 may further include at least one strap, similar to any of the straps described above in relation to other embodiments of the present disclosure. As described in relation to other embodiments, the one or more straps may be used to secure the fuel tank to the base assembly 202. In some embodiments, the one or more straps may be secured to brackets 252 (FIG. 15) to secure the fuel tank to the base assembly 202.

The base assembly 202 also includes similar internal components that facilitate combustion as in the fire table 10 of FIG. 1.

Opposing edges of the outer wall 216 of the base assembly 202 includes vertically extending grooves 211 to engage the tongues 210 on the sliding panel 208.

The upper edge 230 of the access panel 208 is positioned flush with an upper edge 232 of the base assembly 202 and radially outward of the base assembly so that the panel 208 may slide upwards without interference from the base assembly 202.

The bottom edge 234 of the access panel 208 is prevented from sliding downwards past the fuel tank seat by an access panel seat 236 that is formed on the base assembly 202. The access panel seat is 236 on the same vertical plane as a planar surface 237 of the fuel tank seat of the base assembly.

In some embodiments, the lower end 234 of the sliding panel 208 includes a position limiter. The position limiter prevents removal of the access panel 208 from the base assembly 202 when a user slides the access panel 208 upwardly with respect to the base assembly 202. In some embodiments, the position limiter is a detent extending from an inner surface of the sliding panel 208.

The base assembly 202 includes two access panel braces 240 for supporting the sliding panel 208. The braces 240 are secured to upper and lower edges of the outer wall 216, These braces 240 reinforce the top and bottom edges of the access panel 208 when the panel 208 is seated on the base assembly 202 and the fire table 200 is in the closed configuration. These braces 240 protect the panel 208 from damage that would prevent the panel 208 from sliding along the tongue-and-groove joints. When viewed from above, the braces 240 extend along arc lengths of between about 300 degrees and about 310 degrees around the inside edge of the outer shell, including the entirety of the span of the sliding panel.

The floating grip 214 is similar in function to the grip 215 located on the opposite side of the base assembly 202 but is fixed to the base assembly 202 of the fire table 200 by two vertical members that are welded to the burner tray. The grip 214 is slightly offset from the inside face of the access panel 208 when the access panel 208, allowing the user to have a better hold on the sliding access panel 208 when moving the sliding access panel 208 upwards with respect to the base assembly 202.

FIGS. 21-24 show another embodiment of a fire table of the present disclosure, generally indicated at 300. The fire table 300 of FIG. 21 includes a base assembly 302, an upper assembly 304, and a lid 306. The fire table 200 of FIG. 14 is configured to enclose a fuel tank 14 and includes similar internal components for providing a flame as the fire table 10 of FIG. 1. The fire table 300 of FIGS. 21-22 is similar to the fire table 200 of FIG. 14, but the sliding panel 308 of the upper assembly 304 spans a different arc length when viewed from above and does not include a hole for a handle. As shown by lines 3000 and 3002 and angle α, the base assembly 302 includes an outer wall 316 that is larger than the sliding panel 308 of the upper assembly 304.

The outer shell is split into the outer wall 316 of the base assembly and the sliding panel 308 of the upper assembly. In FIG. 21, the outer wall 316 of the base assembly 302 spans a 231 degree arc, and the sliding panel 308 spans a 129 degree arc (as shown by angle α) when the fire table 300 is viewed from above. In other embodiments, the outer wall of the base assembly and the sliding panel may have different arc lengths than those in FIG. 21. The opening in the outer wall of the base assembly is at least 13 inches when viewed from above. In FIG. 23, the opening in the outer wall 316 of the base assembly 302 is about 14 inches when viewed from above.

The fuel tank 14 and components that aid in its positioning or securement to the base assembly 302 of the fire table 300, are oriented slightly differently relative to the embodiment of FIG. 14 so that they face the center of the opening/access panel 308.

By reducing the arc length of the sliding panel to a range between about 110 degrees to about 150 degrees when viewed from above, the sliding panel does not need to include a gripping point. In the embodiment of FIG. 21, both gripping points are included in the base assembly 302. There is no need for a floating grip which is replaced by the a similar grip and recess as the grip and recess that are adjacent to the manual knob 330.

Although the embodiment of FIG. 21 does not show braces as in the embodiment of FIG. 14, the embodiment of FIG. 21 may include similar braces at the upper and lower ends of the base assembly to support the sliding panel.

As can be seen from the above description, embodiments of the portable fire table of the present disclosure emit or facilitate the containment of combustion. In some embodiments, the portable fire table is configured to contain a 20-pound propane canister within its walls. In some embodiments, the portable fire table contains a 20-pound propane canister within its walls.

In some embodiments, the fire table emits flames capable of outputting 30,000-65,000 BTUs.

In some embodiments, the fire table has a size, weight and profile that allow the fire table to be easily moved by one person and stored within an average everyday vehicle's trunk space.

Embodiments of the fire table are capable of functioning in a variety of settings including but not limited to: residential outdoor spaces, commercial outdoor spaces, beaches, campgrounds, parking lots and boats.

Embodiments of the fire table are able to contain a 20 pound propane canister. The propane canister is entirely enclosed within the fire table but is also easily accessible to the user.

Embodiments of the fire table include a base assembly and an upper assembly. The upper assembly allows the upper end of the fuel tank to be easily accessible to the user when the base assembly is secured to the upper assembly of the fire table.

With exception of fire media supported within the fire table, embodiments of the fire table create a minimal amount of noise when being moved or stored in a moving vehicle.

Embodiments of the fire table include an easily removable lid that secures itself to the body of the fire table.

To improve durability, embodiments of the fire table are made of corrosion resistant materials.

Embodiments of the fire table include a base assembly and an upper assembly that may be easily assembled by a user.

By having the fuel tank located within the fire table, embodiments of the fire table have a clean, streamlined aesthetic appearance relative to the bulky and mismatched aesthetic of a fire table that uses an external 20 pound propane canister.

Having thus described several aspects of at least one embodiment of this disclosure, it is to be appreciated various alterations, modifications, and improvements will readily occur to those skilled in the art. Such alterations, modifications, and improvements are intended to be part of this disclosure, and are intended to be within the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, the foregoing description and drawings are by way of example only.

Claims

1. A portable fire table for use with a fuel tank, the portable fire table comprising:

a base assembly including a seat for a fuel tank; and

an upper assembly including an outer wall configured to surround the fuel tank and extending from a lower end of the upper assembly to an upper end of the upper assembly; a burner towards the upper end of the upper assembly; and a burner tray having a support surface extending beneath the burner and an upper ledge; and

a lid configured to be removably secured to the upper ledge of the burner tray.

2. The portable fire table of claim 1, wherein the base assembly further includes a first threaded surface and the upper assembly further includes a second threaded surface at the lower end configured to be secured to the first threaded surface of the base assembly.

3. The portable fire table of claim 1, wherein the seat includes

a positioning ring for encircling a base of the fuel tank;

a sidewall extending upwardly from the seat; and

at least one strap secured to the sidewall that is configured to hold the fuel tank against the sidewall when the fuel tank is positioned on the seat.

4. The portable fire table of claim 3, wherein the at least one strap is two straps.

5. The portable fire table of claim 4, wherein a middle portion of a first one of the straps is secured to a middle portion of a second one of the straps so the two straps cross over each other when securing the fuel tank on the seat.

6. The portable fire table of claim 4, wherein each strap is made of nylon.

7. The portable fire table of claim 2, wherein the first threaded surface is an internal threaded surface and the second threaded surface is an external threaded surface.

8. The portable fire table of claim 2, wherein the first threaded surface includes interrupted threads and the second threaded surface includes interrupted threads.

9. The portable fire table of claim 1, wherein the lid is magnetically secured to the upper ledge of the burner tray.

10. The portable fire table of claim 1, further comprising an access port defined in the outer wall of the upper assembly, and a panel removably secured within the access port.

11. The portable fire table of claim 1, further comprising the fuel tank.

12. The portable fire table of claim 1, further comprising a steel ring secured beneath the ledge, and at least one magnet secured to the lid.

13. The portable fire table of claim 1, wherein an upper surface of the lid is flush with the upper end of the upper assembly when the lid is seated on the ledge.

14. The portable fire table of claim 1, wherein internal components of the upper assembly are confined to a radial segment of a main body of the upper assembly body of 180 degrees, when viewed from the top.

15. The portable fire table of claim 1, consisting essentially of the base assembly, the upper assembly, and the lid.

16. A portable fire table for use with a fuel tank, the portable fire table comprising:

a base assembly including a seat for a fuel tank; an outer wall extending from a lower end of the base assembly to an upper end of the base assembly; a burner towards the upper end of the base assembly; and a burner tray having a support surface extending beneath the burner and an upper ledge; and

an upper assembly including a sliding panel secured to the outer wall of the base assembly, the outer wall and the sliding panel together configured to surround the fuel tank; and

a lid configured to be removably secured to the upper ledge of the burner tray.

17. The portable fire table of claim 16, consisting essentially of the base assembly, the upper assembly, and the lid.