Patents by Inventor James E. Houck

James E. Houck has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 6602306
    Abstract: An artificial firelog comprising a mixture of combustible materials and a combustible binder further contains particulate coke comprising about 1% to about 35% by weight of the firelog, the coke particles having a size less than about 4 mm, to create a realistic crackling sound that mimics the sounds produced during the burning of natural logs. The particulate coke has a preferred moisture content between about 2% and about 20% by weight. The particulate coke may be combined in predetermined ratios with other established crackle additives including natural additives such as coriander seed to extend the time period during which the burning artificial firelog crackles. Preferably, the particulate coke comprises metallurgical coke.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Assignee: Duraflame, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew T. Scott, Eric D. Barford, James E. Houck
  • Publication number: 20020184815
    Abstract: An artificial firelog comprising a mixture of combustible materials and a combustible binder further contains particulate coke comprising about 1% to about 35% by weight of the firelog, the coke particles having a size less than about 4 mm, to create a realistic crackling sound that mimics the sounds produced during the burning of natural logs. The particulate coke has a preferred moisture content between about 2% and about 20% by weight. The particulate coke may be combined in predetermined ratios with other established crackle additives including natural additives such as coriander seed to extend the time period during which the burning artificial firelog crackles. Preferably, the particulate coke comprises metallurgical coke.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2001
    Publication date: December 12, 2002
    Inventors: Andrew T. Scott, Eric D. Barford, James E. Houck