With Simulation Feature Patents (Class 431/125)
  • Patent number: 10890320
    Abstract: A fuel torch display assembly including a base member, an inner canister member coupled to the base member and with a can channel having the fuel canister disposed therein. The assembly includes an outer canister member of a transparent material defined on a portion thereon and an inner surface with a radial retention flange having an upper wall and a sidewall defining an inner canister member retention zone with an enclosed sidewall of the inner canister member disposed therein and the outer surface of the enclosed sidewall of the inner canister member and the inner surface of the enclosed sidewall of the outer canister member defining and flanking an indicia medium placement zone with an indicia medium selectively removably disposed therein adjacent to the transparent material to display an indicia disposed on the indicia medium to an outside ambient environment of the fuel torch assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2021
    Assignee: Kiki Torches Inc
    Inventor: Gina Seneca
  • Patent number: 10765552
    Abstract: Systems for treating a subject's tissue can include a thermally conductive cup, a sealing member, and/or a liner assembly. The systems can include an applicator capable of being reconfigured for a particular treatment site. Components of the applicator can be replaced to achieve a desired configuration. The replaceable components can include contoured heads, liners, and/or sensors. The applicator can draw a vacuum to install various components and/or draw tissue into the applicator. The applicator can cool and/or heat the tissue to affect targeted tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2020
    Assignee: Zeltiq Aesthetics, Inc.
    Inventors: Austin Root, William Pennybacker, George Frangineas, Clive Heke, Leonard C. DeBenedictis
  • Patent number: 10762805
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a simulated solid fuel, including a fuel body, a flow guiding device, a mist source and a light source. The fuel body houses a mist distribution chamber and an air directing chamber which are isolated from each other, and the surface of the fuel body includes mist outlets and mist inlets, the mist outlets and the mist inlets all communicating with the mist distribution chamber. The flow guiding device provides an upwardly rising air flow in the air directing chamber. The mist source delivers mist to the mist distribution chamber through the mist inlets, and is then attracted by the air flow injected from the air ejection port to move toward the middle area of the fuel body to form a flame shape, and is irradiated by the light emitted from the light source, thereby truly simulating the realistic effect of solid fuel combustion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2020
    Assignee: NINGBO RICHEN ELECTRICAL APPLIANCE CO., LTD
    Inventor: Yin Zhou
  • Patent number: 10731809
    Abstract: A synthetic gaslight is described herein. The synthetic gaslight has a translucent upper section that simulates the upper part of a traditional gas flame, a translucent lower section that simulates the lower part of a traditional gas flame, and an opaque isolation section that prevents light from lower section from entering the upper section and that also prevents light from the upper section from entering the lower section. The translucent lower section maintains a constant illumination for the lower part of the simulated gas flame. The translucent upper section has a flickering illumination for the upper part of the simulated gas flame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2020
    Inventors: Thomas Lawrence Mattausch, Daniel Werner Mattausch
  • Patent number: 10378754
    Abstract: A system and method for refilling a liquid fuel candle includes a refillable container and a refilling station with a reservoir of liquid fuel and a designated region for receiving the refillable container. A user control activates a pump causing fuel to flow from the reservoir and into the container until a predetermined fill level is reached, at which time the pump is deactivated. In one configuration the bottom of the container includes a port that cooperates with a post on the refilling station causing the candle to fill from the bottom up. The refilling station may further include an input for receiving a colorant or a scent that is added to the fuel as it flows from the reservoir to the container. The refilling station may include a plurality of designated regions for receiving a plurality of containers to be refilled, including simultaneous refilling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2019
    Inventors: Jamie Durrence, Robert Perkins, Leslie Ciechanowski, Brad Ciechanowski
  • Patent number: 10119702
    Abstract: A candle lamp suitably adapted to burn liquid fuel to support a light-emitting flame, with the candle lamp having an exterior shell that has the appearance of a traditional wax or tallow candle, and a fragrance matrix which provides a fragrance when exposed to the heat of a flame when the candle lamp is in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2018
    Assignee: CM Almy & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Fendler, Stephen Fendler
  • Patent number: 9427671
    Abstract: Disclosed is a launcher for a toy vehicle having a biased carriage that holds a toy vehicle as a drive wheel on the toy vehicle is being energized, and that propels the energized toy vehicle forward and onto a toy racetrack when the biased carriage is released. A launcher housing includes a carriage capture and release assembly that remains in an armed, ready position until a toy vehicle is positioned on the carriage, a pull cord is inserted through the launcher housing and into engagement with the drive wheel on the toy vehicle, and the pull cord is thereafter withdrawn from the toy vehicle and the housing. After the pull cord is fully withdrawn, the carriage capture and release assembly releases the carriage, allowing a biasing member to propel the carriage forward so as to launch the energized toy vehicle. The launcher may be combined with a toy racetrack having various stunt features through which a toy vehicle may travel after its launch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2016
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Stacy L. O'Connor, Gustavo Ferreyra
  • Patent number: 8956155
    Abstract: A burner assembly for a fireplace, comprising a fuel-metering plate, a fuel-delivery plenum and a dividing plate. The fuel metering plate has tines that form a combed structure in an uppermost portion of the fuel-metering plate, the combed structure extending along a long dimension of the fuel-metering plate. The fuel-delivery plenum has a fuel chamber and the fuel-delivery plenum being coupled to the fuel-metering plate such that the fuel chamber extends along the long dimension of the fuel metering plate. The dividing plate is located between the fuel-metering plate and the fuel-delivery plenum. The dividing plate has a slotted opening that extends along the long dimension of the fuel metering plate, the slotted opening being in fluid communication with individual channels between the tines and with the fuel chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Innovative Hearth Products LLC
    Inventors: Joseph A. Benedetti, Kenneth D. Johns, Michael S. Pennington, Chad R. Zimmerman
  • Patent number: 8894409
    Abstract: The present invention provides, inter alia, a colored flame candle. This colored flame candle contains: a wick, a body of solid combustible material surrounding the wick except a tip portion of the wick, and a first encapsulated color agent adapted to color a flame of the candle, which color agent is dispersed within the solid combustible material and/or on the wick. Also provided is a wick for a colored flame candle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: La Torre Innovation LLC
    Inventors: Justin S. La Torre, John D. Blizzard
  • Patent number: 8823714
    Abstract: The invention provides a system for controlling flame to produce a music-reactive fire display. This system comprises a digital signal analyzer, electronically-controlled burner elements that allow variable control of fuel flow rate, an automatic ignition system, flame detection, and a means of communication between the signal analyzer and the burner elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Livespark LLC
    Inventors: Mike Thielvoldt, Brett Levine
  • Patent number: 8776777
    Abstract: A gas heater includes a support unit, a burner unit, a venting unit and a frame guider. The burner unit includes an ignition unit, a hollow and transparent radiant unit defining a cavity in which the flame guider is positioned, a heat reflector and a burner top cover. The radiant unit comprises a bottom unit with inlet air passages through which an air flow into the radiant unit cavity is created. Then, the frame guider, which has a preset structure such as a spiral and a cone structure and a plurality of guider through-holes, is arranged for guiding and generating a flame pattern which is visible through the radiant unit. The venting unit, which is connected to the radiant unit in an air-tight manner, then provides an air exit. Accordingly, energy utilization is increased and visible flame pattern assemble to real flame can be seen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Inventors: Weidong Jin, Weiqun Jin
  • Patent number: 8590584
    Abstract: Certain example embodiments relate to flaming wallets, and methods of making the same, with such flaming wallets typically being used for magic tricks, illusions, jokes, and/or general fun. In certain example embodiments, a flame mechanism may be substantially completely concealed by “fake money.” The flame mechanism of certain example embodiments may include an igniter that produces a spark for causing flammable material applied to flame retardant material to combust, with the flame retardant material being inserted into respective recesses of one or more flame retardant material holders located between the inner surface of the flaming wallet and the rear surface of the fake money. In certain example embodiments, a magnet mechanism may facilitate the closing of the wallet and/or the extinguishing of the flames produced by the flaming wallet. Advantageously, the flaming wallet of certain example embodiments does not necessarily require hidden compartments or areas, or sleight of hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Invisible Intelligence Incorporated
    Inventor: Howie Marmer
  • Publication number: 20130149651
    Abstract: The invention provides systems and methods for standalone flame effects. Various aspects of the invention described herein may be applied to any of the particular applications set forth below or for any other types of fire displays. A flame effect may include a local fuel source, a burner configured to receive a flammable fuel from the fuel source, a local power source, and a wireless communication module in electrical communication with the local power source. The location of one or more flame effects may be automatically determined, and may be used in creating a desired fire display.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2011
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Inventors: Mike Thielvoldt, Brett Levine
  • Patent number: 8434471
    Abstract: An indoor-outdoor fireplace apparatus including having a base unit which supports a pair of spaced elongate containers for a fuel of the liquid or gel type. In key embodiments, the two elongate fuel containers each have a short horizontal dimension. A shutter carrier slidably rests on the base-unit top and includes a frame to which a pair of elongate shutter plates are secured in spaced positions to cover the elongate fuel containers, such arrangement providing a visually-broad flame field with full on-and-off and adjustment control with a short shutter stroke.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Jensen Metal Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Seth Jensen
  • Patent number: 8434470
    Abstract: An adjustable burn apparatus for a fireplace using a liquid or gel-type fuel. The apparatus includes an elongate housing with an elongate top opening into which an elongate removable fuel container is inserted. The removable fuel container has an elongate open top of a length approximating the length of the elongate housing, and an elongate cover which is hinged to the housing preferably along its long dimension and has an elongate flame opening. The hinged cover itself has a shutter slidably secured at its lower surface that is movable along positions opening, controlling and closing the flame opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Jensen Metal Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Seth Jensen
  • Publication number: 20130071798
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a fireplace insert for a gas fireplace wherein the traditional gas fireplace logs are replaced by faux candles with gas flame wicks wherein at least one candle has a heating element, besides the wicks, in the body of the candle to produce heat from the fireplace.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2011
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Inventor: Mark Wesley Parson
  • Patent number: 8348662
    Abstract: A candle having a body of a meltable fuel and a planar wick. When lit, the candle provides a unique flame formation, usable in a variety of decorative applications. The wick can be configured to evenly deplete the meltable fuel, while allowing for candles having relatively large and unique body configurations. The body of candle and/or the wick may include scented oil to promote the release of fragrance upon heating. The wick preferably is formed of wood, thereby providing an acoustic contribution to ambiance and improved combustion that generates less soot than conventional cotton wick candles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Lumetique, Inc.
    Inventor: DayNa M. Decker
  • Publication number: 20130000631
    Abstract: A screen for use with a heating device having a heat source, the screen comprising a panel having a first surface and a second surface, the panel being positionable relative to the heating device such the first surface faces outwardly from the heat source and the second surface faces towards the heat source, and the panel defining an aperture through a depth of the panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2012
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Inventor: Paul C. Baird
  • Patent number: 8333812
    Abstract: A non-combustible, synthetic fire-log is disclosed comprising a composition formed to approximate the shape of a combustible object, wherein said composition comprises a substantially non-combustible matrix and an effective amount of hollow spheres. In one embodiment, the effective amount of hollow spheres ranges from approximately 3 to 85 percent of the total composition by weight. The composition enhances the aesthetic quality of the synthetic fire-log when exposed to heat and also decreases the carbon monoxide emissions of synthetic fire-log systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: Forestwood Industrial, Inc.
    Inventor: Jonathan Fischer
  • Publication number: 20120282559
    Abstract: An assembly for creating a fire display from a liquid fuel comprises a fuel receiving reservoir connected to a burner by a conduit, the conduit providing a flow channel for a liquid fuel from the reservoir to the burner. When a container of liquid fuel is placed in a bottle receiving tray the fuel is dispensed into the reservoir and in turn flows into the burner. Flammable vapors over the liquid fuel in the burner can then be ignited. The arrangement provides a continuous feed of fuel to the burner and allows safe replacement of the fuel container and replenishment of the fuel in the burner while the flame is present.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2011
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Inventors: Samir Barudi, David Merrill, Chris Caron
  • Publication number: 20120216793
    Abstract: A burner assembly for a fireplace, comprising a fuel-metering plate, a fuel-delivery plenum and a dividing plate. The fuel metering plate has tines that form a combed structure in an uppermost portion of the fuel-metering plate, the combed structure extending along a long dimension of the fuel-metering plate. The fuel-delivery plenum has a fuel chamber and the fuel-delivery plenum being coupled to the fuel-metering plate such that the fuel chamber extends along the long dimension of the fuel metering plate. The dividing plate is located between the fuel-metering plate and the fuel-delivery plenum. The dividing plate has a slotted opening that extends along the long dimension of the fuel metering plate, the slotted opening being in fluid communication with individual channels between the tines and with the fuel chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2011
    Publication date: August 30, 2012
    Applicant: Lennox Hearth Products LLC
    Inventors: Joseph A. Benedetti, Kenneth D. Johns, Michael S. Pennington, Chad R. Zimmerman
  • Patent number: 8215789
    Abstract: A light-emitting apparatus includes a housing defining an interior space. A light-emitting diode in the interior space of the housing projects upward from the interior bottom surface. A support surface in the interior space above the light-emitting diode is configured to support a candle in the interior space over the light-emitting diode so that the light-emitting diode is hidden from view.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Mary Elle Fashions
    Inventor: Kenneth A. Howard
  • Patent number: 8147240
    Abstract: A gas burner assembly includes a first sheet, a second sheet, and a conduit. The first sheet has an inner face, an outer face, an upper portion, and a lower portion. The second sheet also has an inner face, an outer face, an upper portion and a lower portion. The first and second sheets are secured relative to one another such that the first and second sheets are separated by a gap that defines a manifold between the inner faces of the first and second sheets with an elongate opening between the upper portions of the first and second sheets, the opening forming an outlet from the manifold. The conduit is in communication with the manifold, the conduit being adapted for connection to a source of gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: HNI Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: David C. Lyons, Travis P. Betcher, Louis L. Mead
  • Patent number: 8118589
    Abstract: A flame color-enhancing apparatus includes a hollow outer tubular member having a predetermined copper content, a predetermined inside diameter and surface, and a first predetermined length; and an internal tubular member frictionally disposed within the outer tubular member to a predetermined ratio of contact of the interior surface of the outer member to exterior surface of the internal tubular member. The internal tubular member contains a predetermined content of chlorine-based polymer and has a second predetermined length and an outside diameter substantially equal to the predetermined inside diameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Inventors: Sandra Haugen, Larry Dean Mason
  • Patent number: 8109760
    Abstract: A torch, and ignitor or gas valve interlock located on the same part which the operator moves to activate the torch, which is overcome by the operator by providing a tangential rolling force to the interlock as the finger is seated on a downwardly actuated ignitor. The torch ignitor and gas valve interlock according to the present invention requires a skilled, compound motion easily provided by an adult and unlikely to be imposed by accidental gross motions, without diminishing or interfering with the operator's ability to easily operate the ignitor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: Blazer Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Max Berkovits
  • Patent number: 8057219
    Abstract: A dual fuel vent free gas heater having at least one gas burner with a plurality of gas outlet ports. The gas outlet ports are in flow communication with at least one pilot flame burner. At least one fuel injector feeds fuel to the burner providing for introduction of more than one fuel to the burner. Optionally, an oxygen detection system, manual control valve, linkage, and/or shut off control system may be incorporated into the dual fuel vent free heater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Coprecitec, S.L.
    Inventors: John Stephen (Steve) Manning, José Joaquín Antxia Uribetxebarria, Ruben Mateos Martin
  • Patent number: 8033822
    Abstract: A portable, self-contained artificial campfire apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a base container which can house an internal fuel source, a removable lid for accessing the container base, a fiber-ceramic log assembly connected to the removable lid, and a second lid for protecting and transporting the apparatus. The use of fiber-ceramic artificial logs allows for a more realistic campfire because the logs will glow as they are heated, just as a wood campfire does. The artificial campfire preferably also includes a tapered burner unit to produce an even more realistic campfire appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Junkins, Junkins & Crow, Inc.
    Inventor: Larry Junkins
  • Publication number: 20100239990
    Abstract: A gas burner assembly includes a first sheet, a second sheet, and a conduit. The first sheet has an inner face, an outer face, an upper portion, and a lower portion. The second sheet also has an inner face, an outer face, an upper portion and a lower portion. The first and second sheets are secured relative to one another such that the first and second sheets are separated by a gap that defines a manifold between the inner faces of the first and second sheets with an elongate opening between the upper portions of the first and second sheets, the opening forming an outlet from the manifold. The conduit is in communication with the manifold, the conduit being adapted for connection to a source of gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2009
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Applicant: HNI Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: David C. Lyons, Travis P. Betcher, Louis L. Mead
  • Publication number: 20100209860
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a stereo flexible charcoal bed and an electric fireplace with a flexible charcoal bed comprising a vessel with at least one transparent bottom, a number of charcoals disposed in the vessel comprising a number of movable light-holding charcoals with a plurality of transparent surfaces, an imaging mechanism disposed on the charcoals. The essential effect of the present invention is to solve the monotone charcoal flame, bad sense of stereo and poor visual effect of the exiting electric fireplace, meanwhile, the problems such as bad simulative effect, and lack of reality and the sense of stereo are solved as well. The charcoal flame structure of the present invention could change arbitrarily and the light-spots of burning flame are sparkling intermittently with bright and shade. The visual effect and the authenticity are both perfect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2009
    Publication date: August 19, 2010
    Inventor: Hongfeng Zhu
  • Publication number: 20100151398
    Abstract: A gas fire ember element comprises a bundle of wire of a heat and oxidation resistant metal (Fecralloy® or Nichrome®, for example). The density of wire in the bundle is so loose (between 0.01 and 0.1% by total volume of the bundle) that burning gas percolates through it. The wire has a filament cross section of between 500 ?m2 and 8,000 ?m2. so that it quickly glows and stops glowing as it is heated or not heated by flickering gas flame. The bundle can be hollow, said wire being confined to a surface region of the bundle having a thickness between 50 ?m and 5,000 ?m. Either the density of wire in the surface region is between 0.01% and 0.1% by total volume of the surface region, or a projection of the wire in the surface region occupies between 0.01% and 0.1% by total area of said projection. The wire in the surface region may be a mesh.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2008
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Inventor: Robert Smith
  • Patent number: 7726300
    Abstract: A fireplace including a backlighting system. The backlighting system can be positioned in a back portion of the bottom panel of the fireplace. The backlighting system includes at least one light source to shine light upon the components of the fireplace. For example, the light source can be positioned to shine light on a back panel of the fireplace. The light source of the backlighting system can be modulated depending on a state of the fireplace. For example, the light source can be turned on or off depending on whether the flame of the fireplace is on or off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: HNI Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: David C. Lyons, Thomas J. Bachinski, Robert S. Waddell, Richard D. Berg, Scott S. Jeutter, Kurt M. Schwie
  • Patent number: 7712496
    Abstract: Certain example embodiments relate to flaming wallets, and methods of making the same, with such flaming wallets typically being used for magic tricks, illusions, jokes, and/or general fun. In certain example embodiments, a flame mechanism may be substantially completely concealed by “fake money.” The flame mechanism of certain example embodiments may include an igniter that produces a spark for causing flammable material applied to flame retardant material to combust, with the flame retardant material being inserted into respective recesses of one or more flame retardant material holders located between the inner surface of the flaming wallet and the rear surface of the fake money. In certain example embodiments, a magnet mechanism may facilitate the closing of the wallet and/or the extinguishing of the flames produced by the flaming wallet. Advantageously, the flaming wallet of certain example embodiments does not necessarily require hidden compartments or areas, or sleight of hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Invisible Intelligence Incorporated
    Inventor: Howie Marmer
  • Patent number: 7670136
    Abstract: An improved artificial candle having an exterior appearance of a traditional wax candle, but which provides illumination by means of producing and burning acetylene gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Inventor: James D. Bishop
  • Publication number: 20090241936
    Abstract: An apparatus having a substantially air-sealed, transparent, front through which a flame within the firebox may be viewed. The apparatus may include a burner configured to hold and burn a liquid fuel and positioned so as to cause a flame from the burning fuel to appear within the firebox. The liquid fuel may be ethanol. The apparatus may include an igniter that has a user-operated igniter control that may be operated by a user from outside of the firebox that, upon operation, causes the liquid fuel within the burner to be ignited. The apparatus may include an extinguisher that has a user-operated extinguisher control that may be operated by a user from outside of the firebox that, upon operation, causes the flame to be extinguished. The apparatus may include a fuel inlet located outside of the firebox, and a fuel channel between the fuel inlet and the burner. A fuel tank may also be provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2008
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Inventors: Martin D. Husted, Mark W. Klein
  • Patent number: 7566220
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a modular propane gas log burner for use in fireplaces that were originally designed as wood burning fireplaces. The present burner is designed for clean burning of propane fuel and is modular so that more than one burner can be used in combination in order to create a burner configuration for wider single-sided gas log sets, for deeper single-sided gas log sets, and for two-sided or see-through gas log sets. The burner is provided with means for adjusting the fuel-to-air ratio and for adjusting the position of the flames to allow the user to achieve realistic and clean burning flames.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Assignee: Hargrove Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventor: Matthew A. Thompson
  • Publication number: 20090142718
    Abstract: An improved artificial candle having an exterior appearance of a traditional wax candle, but which provides illumination by means of producing and burning acetylene gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2007
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Inventor: James D. Bishop
  • Patent number: 7537447
    Abstract: The present invention is related to a gas burner capable of bringing artificial “fuel” disposed thereon to incandescence, known as a “living-flames” gas burner, for use in a single-heating appliance, comprising a multi-panel element made of rigid gel-cast molded ceramic fibers or of bio-soluble ceramic fibers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignee: Thermic Investments S.A.
    Inventor: Timothy Teague
  • Patent number: 7479008
    Abstract: A burner apparatus for an indoor or outdoor fireplace, fire pit, stove or oven is shown. The burner apparatus operates to produce natural gas fueled or liquid petroleum fueled amber flames among artificial logs, coals or a combination of artificial logs and coals, simulating a natural fire. One embodiment of the burner apparatus comprises a burner tube loop for the distribution of fuel, a fuel/air mixing valve for mixing the fuel and air before ignition of the resulting fuel/air mixture, metal cups for the dissipation of the fuel/air mixture and flames, an ignition system for igniting the fuel/air mixture, a control system for monitoring and controlling the ignition of the fuel and for regulating the flow of fuel, and artificial logs, coals or a combination of logs and coals placed around the burner tube loop to provide for an aesthetically pleasing and natural looking display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Inventor: Paul David Thomas
  • Publication number: 20090016048
    Abstract: Torch lamp systems and flame lamp assemblies for producing swirling flames are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a flame lamp assembly for providing a flame having a continuous spiral movement can include a plurality of spaced apart panels and a frame for supporting the panels to form a chamber for housing the flame. The frame can support the panels such that adjacent panels are spaced apart at panel junctions to create a plurality of air intake slots. The plurality of air intake slots can be in communication with the chamber to allow air to flow from an external environment into the chamber at an angle to provide vortical air flow within the chamber. The assembly can also include a burner assembly configured to receive fuel from a fuel source and to provide a fuel flow from a fuel release point to the chamber for ignition to provide the flame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2008
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Applicant: Travis Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Russ McBrien, Kurt W.F. Rumens, Alan R. Atemboski
  • Patent number: 7458808
    Abstract: An artificial log set including a fire grate having a base and an upper section pivotally connected to the base, pivotable between a lowered burning position and a raised access position. A fuel reservoir is supported by the base. A burner head is attached to the upper section so as to be positioned directly over the fuel reservoir when the upper section is in its lowered burning position, and so as to allow access to the fuel reservoir when the upper section is in its raised access position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: Woodlane Environmental Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory M. McCarren
  • Publication number: 20080227041
    Abstract: In certain embodiments, a log assembly includes one or more substantially noncombustible logs. The assembly can include a frame configured to support at least one of the logs. The frame can include a base portion configured to rest on a floor. The base portion can define a lower spatial extent of the assembly. In some embodiments, the log assembly includes a burner coupled with the frame. The burner can be configured to produce a flame. The assembly can include a fuel delivery system substantially above the lower spatial extent defined by the base portion of the frame. The system can be configured to receive fuel from a fuel source and to supply fuel to the burner. The log assembly can include a lighting housing coupled with the frame, with substantially all of the lighting housing above the lower spatial extent defined by the base portion of the frame. One or more light sources can be coupled with the lighting housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2008
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Inventors: Kirk J. Kirchner, Toby P. Frink, Ron G. Smith
  • Publication number: 20080151563
    Abstract: An touch-controlled ornamental electronic candle including: an ornamental candle main body having a top face and a bottom face; an ornamental flame body erected on the top face of the candle main body, whereby light beam can go through the flame body; light emitters hidden in the flame body to emit light outward through the flame body; and a lighting control circuit arranged in the candle main body for controllably extinguishing or lighting up the light emitters. The lighting control circuit includes a hand touch pad arranged in the candle main body or arranged on a surface of the candle main body and exposed to outer side. A user's body can get close to or touch the hand touch pad to control the operation thereof so as to controllably extinguish or light up the light emitters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2007
    Publication date: June 26, 2008
    Inventor: Kuo-Fang Chen
  • Publication number: 20080026335
    Abstract: A portable, self-contained artificial campfire apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a base container which can house an internal fuel source, a removable lid for accessing the container base, a fiber-ceramic log assembly connected to the removable lid, and a second lid for protecting and transporting the apparatus. The use of fiber-ceramic artificial logs allows for a more realistic campfire because the logs will glow as they are heated, just as a wood campfire does. The artificial campfire preferably also includes a tapered burner unit to produce an even more realistic campfire appearance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2006
    Publication date: January 31, 2008
    Inventor: Larry Junkins
  • Patent number: 7322819
    Abstract: A fireplace including a backlighting system. The backlighting system can be positioned in a back portion of the bottom panel of the fireplace. The backlighting system includes at least one light source to shine light upon the components of the fireplace. For example, the light source can be positioned to shine light on a back panel of the fireplace. The light source of the backlighting system can be modulated depending on a state of the fireplace. For example, the light source can be turned on or off depending on whether the flame of the fireplace is on or off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Assignee: HNI Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: David Charles Lyons, Thomas J. Bachinski, Robert Samuel Waddell, Richard Berg, Scott Stephen Jeutter, Kurt Matthew Schwie
  • Publication number: 20080006263
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for selectively heating and cooling an area. The apparatus comprises a heating assembly for heating an area and a cooling assembly for cooling the area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2006
    Publication date: January 10, 2008
    Inventors: Edward M. Seichei, Theodore H. Stark
  • Patent number: 7275929
    Abstract: A fireplace afterburner is presented including a shell having a first open shell end for receiving fireplace emissions and a second open shell end for expelling fireplace emissions, a flue inside said shell having a first flue end which can be closed, and a second flue end which is open, wherein when the first flue end is closed fireplace emissions flow around said flue, and wherein when said first flue end is open fireplace emission flow through said flue, a heating element connected to said shell and encircling said flue, wherein said heating element heats emissions that pass in proximity to the element, and a catalyst bed connected to said shell and encircling said flue. A method for reducing products of incomplete combustion in fireplace emissions is presented including receiving fireplace emissions into a shell, heating said fireplace emissions to at least 1501° F. (816° C.), reacting said fireplace emissions with a catalyst substrate, and releasing the results of said reaction from said shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2007
    Inventor: Paul E. Tiegs
  • Patent number: 7234932
    Abstract: A fireplace for viewing outside of a house or other structure that includes a combustion chamber defined by a combustion chamber enclosure with a front opening and a front panel at least partially enclosing the front opening. The front panel is partially surrounded by an air intake/gas exhaust system. The air intake/gas exhaust system is defined by bottom intake, a top exhaust and at least one of side intake/exhaust opening. A gas burner is situated on the floor of the combustion chamber enclosure. Fresh air enters through a bottom intake opening in the bottom intake and the lower portion of the intake/exhaust opening. After the combustion exhaust gases are expelled through a top exhaust opening in the top exhaust and the upper portion of the intake/exhaust openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Assignee: HNI Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Robin Michael Streit
  • Patent number: 7234255
    Abstract: The invention relates to a flame imitation device for a wall-mounted heater. The flame imitation device comprises a light source, a combustion bed including imitated firewood and embers, and a vertical translucent screen located closely adjacent to the back edge of the combustion bed. The light source is located under the combustion bed. A glittering member is rotatably provided behind the translucent screen. The main body of the glittering member comprises a polyhedron with a polygonal cross section. A reflector is provided on the polyhedron. The glittering member is connected to a rotational driver. Light irradiated from the light source partially transmits upward onto the combustion bed for imitating firewood and embers. Light irradiated from the light source partially transmitted rearward to the glittering member positioned at the back portion of the heater, and reflects the light to the translucent screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Assignee: Guangdong Midea Electric Appliances, Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Weidong Peng, Xinnan Yuan, Haifeng Sun, Yuannan Zhang
  • Patent number: 7223095
    Abstract: A method of improving an individual artificial concrete log widely used in gas fires, the new concrete log(1) having at least one decorative ceramic fiber pad (1a) or (2a) secured in the cut out(2) section, the pad (1a or 2a) is positioned to mate with the contour of the concrete log (1). The decorative pad (1a or 2a) is installed to provide a secondary air chamber(3) between the back of the decorative pad (1a or 2a) and inner surface of the cut out (2). When the log is placed on an existing gas fire some of the gas flames are directed up through the secondary air chamber(3) creating flames coming out of the body of the composite concrete log(1) at the same time gas flames impinge the front decorative surface(6) of the installed ceramic fiber pad (1a or 2a) producing a radiant surface (6) simulating a real burning log thereby improving the overall visual effect of most existing gas log fire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Inventor: Arthur Andrew Corry
  • Patent number: 7160103
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for modifying the appearance of a flame to maximize the size of the flame for a given amount of fuel, increase a burn rate efficiency of the flame, or change the shape of the flame. The shape and size of the flame may be modified by applying a secondary source of fluid to the flame. The secondary source of fluid may cause turbulent fluid flow within the combustion chamber enclosure in which the flame is produced to change the appearance of the flame. The secondary source of fluid may be generated by a blower or fan and may include, for example, a source of fresh combustion air, additional flammable gas such as natural gas, or other fluid additives for enhancement of the flame color, shape, and size.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: HNI Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Gary Lee Butler, Chad William Hendrickson, Robb Edward Bennett, Stephen G. Smith, Thomas J. Bachinski, David Charles Lyons
  • Patent number: 4959962
    Abstract: In order to avoid the necessity of a conventional electric starter motor a hydrostatic starting system for the engine of a motor vehicle is proposed for the engine whose output shaft is connected with a hydromechanical power transmission, composed of a mechanical part and at least two hydrostatic machines. The starter system comprises its own hydraulic accumulator which as regards its filling capacity and power output is designed for starting the engine at least once and a controller which responds to certain halt and operational states of the vehicle. The charging of the hydraulic accumulator takes place during braking of the vehicle via the hydrostatic machines of the power transmission or, if there is insufficient brake power, of an auxiliary device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 2, 1990
    Assignee: MAN Nutzfahrzeuge GmbH
    Inventors: Faust Hagin, Hans Drewitz