OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL SYSTEM

Abstract

An outdoor environmental control system has a housing, an HVAC system positioned in the housing and adapted to pass air outwardly of the housing, a table positioned at or adjacent to a top of the housing, at least one ventilation tube positioned at an underside of the table and adapted to pass air outwardly from the HVAC system. An air outlet is coupled to the HVAC system and extends from a side of the housing so as to pass air from the HVAC system outwardly from the housing.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Not applicable.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

NAMES OF THE PARTIES TO A JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT

Not applicable.

INCORPORATION-BY-REFERENCE OF MATERIALS SUBMITTED ON A COMPACT DISC

Not applicable.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to outdoor tables. More particularly, the present invention relates to outdoor tables that have heating, ventilation or air-conditioning cooperative therewith. More particularly, the present invention relates to outdoor environmental control systems wherein cooling or heating air can be delivered to a person sitting at the table.

2. Description of Related Art Including Information Disclosed Under 37 CFR 1.97 and 37 CFR 1.98

In many areas of the world, large umbrellas are used in conjunction with tables for the purpose of providing shade to those dining or drinking at the table. These table umbrellas usually include several legs that support the table a desired distance above the earth and in proximity to the chair surrounding the table. A large pole extends from the legs upwardly above the table so as to support an umbrella thereabove. In certain circumstances, the umbrella can be fixed or foldable. The umbrella effectively provides shade to those dining at the table so as to enhance the comfort of such persons at the table.

It is often the common problem in warm areas that the umbrella does not provide a sufficient cooling effect to those persons at the table. Although shade is important in enhancing one's comfort while dining and/or drinking, elevated ambient temperatures can also create a discomfort. Additionally, if there is no breeze, insects can often provide discomfort to persons at the table. Many existing table umbrella apparatus ineffectively provide a full range of services and environmental effects to those at the table.

Various items have been employed in the past with outdoor patio activities. In particular, electric fans have been used as a source of air for those sitting outside. Electric fans commonly use an electric motor with fan blades attached to the shaft of the rotor of the motor such that the electric motor is positioned central to the fan blades. Unfortunately, when the electric fan is used outside, it does not provide a great deal of protection from the sun nor a full range of comfort to those sitting at tables.

In the past, various patents have issued relating to fan assemblies and environmental control apparatus associated with table umbrellas. For example, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2002/0096203, published on Jul. 25, 2002 to Cohen et al., describes a fan assembly for a table umbrella. A motor assembly is connected to the pole that supports the table umbrella. A rather complicated arrangement of drive rings allows the umbrella to rotate relative to the table by the action of the motor.

U.S. Patent Publication No. 2002/0121296, published on Sep. 5, 2002 to R. B. Copple, describes an integrated electric fan and patio umbrella. The device uses an electric fan mounted as integral part of a patio umbrella. The umbrella fabric is open at the top so as to expose the fan to direct air from above. The umbrella can be raised and lowered around the fan blades without the need to hinge the blades up or down.

U.S. Patent Publication No. 2003/0168091, published on Sep. 11, 2003 also to Cohen et al., describes another type of fan assembly for a table umbrella. The fans are located on the underside of the table umbrella. The fans are driven by a shaft which extends through the table umbrella. As a result, the fans provide an airflow downwardly onto patrons sitting at the table below the umbrella.

U.S. Patent Publication No. 2004/0149325, published on Aug. 5, 2004 to G. G. Kuelbs, shows another type of table umbrella apparatus having an integral lighting system so as to provide relatively bright outdoor light for reading and other activities. The umbrella apparatus also includes a cooling system that utilizes electric fans and misting systems. A motorized retraction system is also used so as to retract or open the umbrella.

U.S. Patent Publication No. 2004/0221882, published on Nov. 11, 2004 to Watson et al., describes an insect repellant structure for use in association with a table umbrella. The system is utilized so as to circulate air, along with an insect repellant, in an area below the umbrella and above the table.

U.S. Patent Publication No. 2005/0105898, published on May 19, 2005 to Bachinski et al., shows an infrared heating systems for patio umbrella. The heating system includes a shroud defining an inner volume and a plurality of electrical infrared heating elements positioned generally downward facing in the inner volume of the shroud.

U.S. Pat. No. 2,727,366, issued on Dec. 20, 1955 to 0. A. Hagen, describes sprinkler system attachment for a lawn umbrella. The sprinklers are rotatably mounted at a top of the umbrella so as to deliver a flow of water outwardly therefrom. The water will drain onto the top surface of the umbrella so as to flow downwardly beyond the outer periphery of the umbrella. The downward flow of such water will create a cooling effect for those persons sitting at the table below the canopy of the table umbrella.

U.S. Pat. No. 3,200,820, issued on Aug. 17, 1965 to R. R. Garrett, shows a table umbrella apparatus with a solar energy collector affixed to a top surface thereof. The solar energy collector has a generally convex shape with respect to the table so as to provide for the collection of solar energy therein and also to provide shade and comfort to the persons sitting at the table therebelow.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,007,811, issued on Apr. 16, 1991 to M. H. Hopkins, shows an electric fan for a patio umbrella. A rotatable fan is mounted on the interior of table umbrella above the table. A gear or belt drive system couples to the fan from a motor supported on the pole of the table umbrella. As a result, the fan blades can rotate so as to deliver a flow of air downwardly to those persons sitting at the table.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,025,639, issued on Jun. 25, 1991 to T. D. Thomas, shows a patio table cooler in which a central thermally-insulated container is located below the table. The container is cooled by an ice/chemical coolant or refrigeration coils. An electric fan, associated with the cooling element, is positioned below the table and on the base of the table.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,207,238, issued on May 4, 1993 to Rivera et al., shows an air flow lounge umbrella apparatus which includes a fan system that is located in the base of the table umbrella. The fan system delivers air through the pole associated with the umbrella. Airflow will pass through apertures formed on the pole so as to deliver air outwardly of the pole and to those person sitting at the table.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,868,152, issued on Feb. 9, 1999 to R. C. Brown, describes a rotating patio umbrella fan. A motor is located in the base so as to drive a shaft extending through the pole of the table umbrella. The canopy of the umbrella is connected to shaft so as to be rotatably connected to the motor.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,964,233, issued on Oct. 12, 1999 to Clark et al., provides a patio umbrella with a radiant heater. The heater is affixed to the pole of the table umbrella generally below the umbrella. As a result, the canopy will reflect heat from the heating element downwardly to those sitting at the table.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,979,793, issued on Nov. 9, 1999 to R. J. Louis, provides a self-contained misting device. A container has a support for water therein. An ice chamber is associated with the container so as to allow melted ice to be mixed with the water in the container. A pump delivers the cooled water upwardly and outwardly therefrom to a misting nozzle. The misting nozzle will then deliver a mist in a downward orientation.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,017,188, issued on Jan. 25, 2000 to C. Benton, describes a patio table and fan combination. A fan is mounted to the pole directly below the canopy of the umbrella. A plurality of lights are mounted on the pole so as to deliver lighting toward the table. The fan motor is mounted co-axially with the fan and in close proximity to the underside of the patio umbrella.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,325,084, issued on Dec. 4, 2001 to R. B. Cohen, provides another type of combined umbrella and fan device. Once again, the fan is mounted directly below the underside of the canopy of the umbrella. A motor is affixed to the pole and drivingly connected to the fan blades.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,336,450, issued on Jan. 8, 2002 to J. Collet, provides a terrace heating device. This device has a reflector for reflecting rising heat from a heat downwardly toward person therebelow. The reflector is in the shape of an umbrella-like cover that is articulatable between an open position and a closed position.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,651,647, issued on Nov. 25, 2003 to M. Waters, describes another type of heating apparatus having a slidable shroud. A fuel source is provided in a base of the heating apparatus so as to deliver fuel to a burner assembly positioned generally below a reflector. The reflector is in the form of a shroud which serves to direct heat downwardly therefrom.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,682,000, issued on Jan. 27, 2004 to P. C. Apple, provides a misting umbrella. The misting umbrella includes a pump that is connected to a supply of water. A tube extends from the pump upwardly along a pole associated an umbrella. Conduits extend from the tube outwardly toward the periphery of the umbrella so as to deliver a misting spray downwardly to an area under the fabric cover of the umbrella.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,907,875, issued on Jun. 21, 2005 to Eastman et al., provides an outdoor heater which has a movable table attachment thereto. A fuel supply is located on the underside of the table. A radiant heater is provided generally below a small canopy so as to direct heat downwardly toward the table.

The present inventor has three patents relating to the present invention. In particular, U.S. Pat. No. 5,765,582, issued on Jun. 16, 1998 to the present inventor, describes a table umbrella apparatus including a tubular support member, a hub rotatably mounted at an end of the tubular support member, a fan extending radially outwardly of the hub so as to be in the form of a table umbrella, and a motor connected to the hub for rotating the fan about a longitudinal axis of the tubular support member. A shaft is connected to the motor and is connected to the hub. The shaft extends longitudinally along an interior of the tubular support member. The shaft is supported by bearings interior of the tubular support member. A base is connected to the bottom of the tubular support member so as to support the tubular support member in a vertical orientation. A table is supported around the tubular support member in a horizontal plane.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,298,866, issued on Oct. 9, 2001 to the present inventor, also describes a table umbrella apparatus that has a base, an umbrella with an inner surface extending therealong, a tubular support affixed to and extending from the base and supporting a umbrella a desired distance above the base, and a fan connected to the tubular support. The fan has a fan blade mounted so as to rotate about a vertical axis. The fan directs airflow at least upwardly through the umbrella. A motor is connected to the fan so as to rotate the fan blade in a desired direction. A baffle is affixed to the umbrella so as to direct air from the fan along the inner surface of the umbrella. The umbrella has at least one adjustable slat extending outwardly from the inner surface so as to direct airflow from the fan to a desired location below the umbrella. A table is positioned around the tubular support and over the base.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,537,015, issued on May 26, 2009 to the present inventor, teaches a table umbrella apparatus that has a base, a table affixed to the base, a canopy supported by the base a distance above the table, and an air treating means positioned in the base for delivering a flow of air outwardly of the base. The air treating system includes a fan, a motor drivingly connected to the fan, a reservoir positioned in the base, and a pump cooperative with the water in the reservoir for passing a flow of water across air urged by the fan. An aspen wood intake filter is positioned in the base so that the air is urged by the fan across this intake filter.

U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0123335, published on May 5, 2016 to Molnar et al., describes a table umbrella apparatus that has a base, table affixed to the base, a fan positioned in the base so as to deliver a flow of air outwardly of the base, a motor drivingly connected to the fan, and an air plenum formed adjacent to the table. There is a plurality of airflow lines extending through the table. Each of the plurality of airflow lines has an outlet adjacent to a periphery of the table. A plurality of louvers are adjustably positioned at the outlet so as to direct the flow of air from the outlet.

In the previous patents to the present inventor, it was noted that there was a problem associated with the delivery of air from the air plenum toward the person sitting at the table. In certain circumstances, the air would have to travel a great distance before actually cooling a person at the table. There would be heat transfer between the warm table and the cool air. In hot weather conditions, the cool air would actually become warmer before reaching the person. The maximum effectiveness of such cooling or heating systems was diminished. As such, need developed so as to position the outlets as close as possible to the occupant of the table.

Additionally, in these prior patents, there was often an awkward and inconvenient arrangement of the table. Various appliances were positioned onto the table or onto the umbrella. Under certain circumstances, the umbrella could not be properly utilized because of these added appliances. In other circumstances, it was difficult to store or to transport the table umbrella apparatus because of the arrangement of components. In particular, it was difficult to stack tables one upon the other. In other circumstances, the appliances required for the delivery of cooling or heating air added unnecessary cost to the table. As such, a need developed so as to allow for the delivery of air in a convenient and cost-effective manner.

It is an object of the present invention to provide an apparatus which provides a breeze to those sitting at the table.

It is another object of the present invention to provide an apparatus in which the flow of air can be directed, as desired, by the person sitting at the table.

It is another object of the present invention to provide an apparatus in which a cooling flow of air can be delivered outwardly of the table in a location adjacent to the person sitting at the table.

It is still a further object of the present invention to provide an apparatus that can be easily moved and assembled with minimal trouble and difficulty.

It is still a further object of the present invention to provide an apparatus that can be easily transported.

It is still a further object of the present invention to provide an apparatus which is easy to assemble, easy-to-use, relatively inexpensive, and easy to manufacture.

It is another object of the present invention to provide an outdoor environmental control system which allows air to be piped to a remote location.

It is another object of the present invention to provide an outdoor environmental control system which allows a table umbrella or a radiant heater to be connected thereto.

It is another object of the present invention to provide an outdoor environmental control system which is aesthetically pleasing.

These and other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from a reading of the attached specification and appended claims.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is an outdoor environmental control system that comprises a housing, a heating, ventilation or air-conditioning (HVAC) system positioned in the housing and adapted to pass air outwardly of the housing, a table positioned at or adjacent to a top surface of the housing, and at least one ventilation tube positioned at an underside of the table and adapted to pass air outwardly from the HVAC system.

The ventilation tube extends from the house into an edge of the table. The ventilation tube is affixed by a frame to the underside of the table. The ventilation tube, in the preferred embodiment, comprises a plurality of ventilation tubes extending in a cruciform pattern beneath the table. An air plenum is positioned adjacent the top of the housing and connected to the HVAC system. The air plenum is adapted to receive air from the HVAC system. The plurality of ventilation tubes have one end communicating with the air plenum. The table is positioned at the top of the air plenum. The ventilation tube has a louver set at one end thereof. The louver set is adapted to allow a person at the table to control a direction or a volume of air delivered from the ventilation tube.

An air outlet is connected to the HVAC system and extends from a side of the housing. The air outlet is adapted to allow air from the HVAC system to pass outwardly from the housing. The air outlet has a coupling at one end thereof. The coupling is adapted to allow the air outlet to be connected to a conduit.

A console is positioned at the top surface of the table. The console communicates with the HVAC system so as to pass air from the HVAC system outwardly at the top of the table. The console is rotatably mounted at the top surface of the table. The console has a receptacle formed therein. The receptacle is adapted to receive a tubular member therein. This tubular member can be either a table umbrella or a radiant heater.

A plurality of feet is affixed to an underside of the housing. The plurality of feet is adapted to allow a user to adjust a height of the table. Alternatively, plurality of wheels are mounted to an underside of the housing. The plurality of wheels is adapted to allow a user to move the housing along an underlying surface. The housing has at least one decorative side panel. This decorative side panel is removably mounted to the housing. The housing or the table can have an electrical outlet thereon. An umbrella having a pole is connected to the air outlet. The HVAC system directs air through the air outlet and through the pole of the umbrella.

This foregoing Section is intended to describe, with particularity, the preferred embodiments of the present invention. It is understood that modifications to these preferred embodiments can be made within the scope of the present claims. As such, this Section should not to be construed, in any way, as limiting of the broad scope of the present invention. The present invention should only be limited by the following claims and their legal equivalents.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a prior art table umbrella apparatus of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the prior art table umbrella apparatus with the umbrella in a folded configuration.

FIG. 3 is a cut-away interior view of the base of the prior art table umbrella apparatus.

FIG. 4 is another cut-away view of the base associated with the prior art table umbrella apparatus.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the outdoor environmental control system of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the outdoor environmental control system of the present invention is used with an exterior umbrella.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the end of a ventilation tube and adjacent the edge of the table.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing the air plenum and ventilation tubes associated with the HVAC system of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a side elevational view of the air outlet as connected to a conduit extending away from the housing.

FIG. 10 is a side elevational view showing the coupling associated with the air outlet of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a frontal view showing a console as mounted on the table of the outdoor environmental control system of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing a table umbrella as received within a receptacle of the console of the outdoor environmental control system of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the outdoor environmental control system of the present invention having a radiant heater received within the receptacle of the console of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown the prior art table umbrella apparatus 10 related to the present invention. The table umbrella apparatus 10 includes a base 12, a table 14 affixed to the base 12, a canopy 16 that is connected by a pole 18 to the table 14 and the base 12, and an air treating means 20 that is positioned within the base 12. The air treating means 20 is suitable for delivering a flow of air outwardly of the base 12.

As can be seen in FIG. 1, the base 12 has a generally cubical configuration. Vents 22 are formed on at least one wall 24 of the base 12. A door 26 is located on another wall of the base 12. The base 12 has legs 28 extending radially outwardly therefrom in a generally horizontal plane. Wheels 30 are rotatably mounted to a bottom of the base 12 generally adjacent to the legs 28. The wheels 30 can be either adjustable upwardly so as to rise above the bottom level of the legs 24 but can be removably connected to the base 12. The table 14 has a generally circular configuration and is mounted to a top surface of the housing 32 of the base 12. The table 14 includes an airflow outlet structure 34 mounted to a top surface 36. There airflow outlet surface 34 includes vents 38 formed on sides of the truncated pyramidal structure of the airflow outlet 34. Vents 38 include suitable louvers thereon so as to allow a person sitting at the table 14 to adjust a flow of air in a desired direction. A control pad 40a can also be mounted on one of the surfaces of the structure 34 so as to allow persons at the table 10 the control the flow of air, control lighting associated with the apparatus 10, or to place orders therefrom.

The canopy 16 is in the nature of a foldable umbrella 40. The foldable umbrella is supported by struts 42 extending upwardly from pole 18. The umbrella 40 can be folded in a conventional manner in the nature of a conventional table umbrella apparatus. A misting ring 41 is affixed to the pole 18 in a position below the umbrella 40.

FIG. 2 illustrates the manner in which the canopy 16 has umbrella 40 extending in a generally folded configuration. The pole 18 extends upwardly from the top 44 of the structure 34.

FIG. 3 shows an interior view of the base 12. As can be seen in FIG. 3, the table 14 is affixed to a top surface of the housing 32 of base 12. The pole 18 is illustrated as being removably received within an interior of the structure 34. The pole 18 can also be permanently secured generally centrally of the structure 34.

In FIG. 3, it can be seen that the legs 28 include arms 46 which are connected by locking pins to leg flanges 48. Leg flanges 48 extend outwardly from the bottom of the base 12. The locking pins associated with the leg flanges 48 can be removed so as to allow the leg members 46 to be removed or can be adapted so as to allow for a pivoting of the leg members 46 with respect to the leg flanges 48.

In FIG. 3, it can be seen that there is an air plenum 50 that is formed generally centrally of the base 12. Air plenum 50 will extend from the interior of the base 12 upwardly through the table 14 to the interior of the structure 34. Vents 38 communicate with air plenum 50 so as to allow air to flow outwardly through the air plenum 50 and through the louvers associated with vents 38.

A motor 52 is mounted in the base 12 generally centrally in the base and within air plenum 50. Motor 52 is drivingly connected to fan 54. The fan 54 is a squirrel cage fan that is also mounted generally centrally of the base 12. Fan 54, along with motor 52, is arranged so as to draw air inwardly of the base 12 through the vents 22 located on wall 24 of the base 12. A reservoir 56 is received on the interior of the base 12. The reservoir 56 is suitable for receiving a supply of water therein. An aspen wood intake filter 58 is positioned on the interior of the vents 22 so as to allow air passing through inwardly of the base 12, through the vents 22, to pass through the aspen wood intake filter 58. A pump 60 is mounted in the base 12 so as to pass water from the reservoir 56 upwardly and into the top of the aspen wood intake filter 58 so as to allow the water to pass, by osmosis, through the porous wood associated with the aspen wood intake filter 58. As used herein, the preferred embodiment is an aspen wood intake filter. However, various other types of porous, absorbent and distributive intake surfaces can be utilized in place of the aspen wood intake filter 58. It is important that the intake filter 58 be suitably porous and absorbent so as to allow air to pass therethrough while retaining downwardly flowing water therein. Slowly, the water will drop through the structure of the intake filter 58 so as to be collected at a bottom of the reservoir 56. The pump 60 can then redeliver and recirculate the water back to the top of the interior of the intake filter 58.

In normal use, the motor 52 will rotate the fan 54 so as to draw air through the intake vents 22 and across the intake filter 58. This action causes the air to be cooled by the evaporative action. The air then passes from the fan 54 upwardly into the air plenum 50 and outwardly through vents 38 located at the top of table 14 and the vents 62 located below the table 14. As a result, the present invention effectively allows for the delivery of cooled air to those persons sitting at the table 14.

As can be seen in FIG. 2, an evaporative/swamp cooler apparatus is used. The swamp cooler includes a reservoir that holds the water for circulation over saturation intake vents/filters (the aspen wood filters). Air is cooled as it is drawn in by way of strategically mounted squirrel cage fan. As the air passes over the water-saturated filters, moisture or humidity is added to the air so as to cool the air temperature by as much as twenty percent in dry climates. Swamp cooling is preferred method of cooling because it provides some comfort as opposed to the use of more expensive air conditioning equipment. This humidified air is distributed by way of the squirrel cage fan so as to direct the air straight upwardly into the plenum. The plenum pressurizes the air for distribution to the louvered vents so as to allow for control and distribution for under the table and at head height (by way of the control consol). The vents provide total direction control, as well as shut off, so as to allow each individual the ability to control their own personalized climate. The intake air filters are made to be easily removed or replaced for maintenance In order to remove the intake filters for maintenance, it is only necessary to open the external cowl door and simply slide out the filters and replace with new filters. The aspen wood filters allow for easy saturation and distribution of the humidified air. The exterior door allows easy access to the swamp cooler by way of a key latch assembly that keeps unwanted entry from occurring. The swamp cooler provides another air-tight sealed entry door so as to allow water to be filled, ice to be added (for more effective cooling) and for maintenance of the recirculation pump. The recirculation pump continually circulates and recirculates reservoir water over the wood filters by way of drip nozzles that are strategically positioned over the top of the filters. The drip nozzles provide continuous water saturation to the filters by way of the reservoir recirculation pump. This recirculation pump can be a common fountain pump.

In FIG. 3, it can be seen that there is an auxiliary reservoir 64 formed on the interior of the base 12. Another pump 66 is connected by pipe 68 to the auxiliary reservoir 64. Pump 66 serves to deliver the water from the reservoir 56 upwardly to misting nozzle located on the structure 34. As a result, when desired by occupants of the table umbrella apparatus 10, proper misting functions can be achieved. The tube 72 can also, or alternatively, extend along the pole 18 so that the mist can be delivered from a location just below umbrella.

FIG. 4 also shows the interior of the base 12. In FIG. 4, it can be seen that the reservoir 56 has a generally cubical shape that is supported by structural elements 74 located above the bottom of the base 12. Pump 60 is mounted at the bottom of the reservoir 56 so as to deliver water upwardly through conduit 76 to the top of the aspen wood intake filters 58. It can be seen that the aspen wood intake filters 58 are located on opposite sides of the base 12. Suitable vents, such as vents 22 as illustrated in FIG. 1, can also be formed on the opposite wall of the base 12.

In FIG. 4, it can be seen that the pump 66 is connected to the auxiliary reservoir 64 so as to deliver a mist through tube 72 to a nozzle located upwardly above the table 14. FIG. 4 also shows the control panel 40a as located in a desired position so that a person sitting at the table 14 can control a flow of air and/or mist from the apparatus 10 of the present invention. Louvers 78 are mounted on the vents 38 so as to allow the user to direct the flow of air delivered thereto. It can also be seen that there are louvers 80 associated with the vents 62 located below the table 14.

Referring to FIG. 5, there is shown the outdoor environmental control system 100 in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention. The outdoor environmental control system 100 includes a housing 102, a heating, ventilation or air-conditioning (HVAC) system positioned within the housing 102, a table 104 positioned at or adjacent to a top of the housing 102, and at least one ventilation tube 106 positioned at an underside of the table 104 and adapted to pass the air outwardly from the HVAC system.

An air outlet 108 is connected to the housing 102 and is cooperative with the HVAC system within the housing 102 so as to direct air from the HVAC system toward a conduit 110.

In FIG. 5, it can be seen that the housing 102 has a generally rectangular configuration. There are a plurality of feet or wheels 112 mounted to an underside of the housing 102. The plurality of feet or wheels 112 allows the housing 102 and the table 104 to be moved along an underlying surface. The plurality of feet or wheels 112 also allows the height of the table 104 to be adjusted. The housing 102 includes a plurality of decorative side panels 114. The side panel 114 can be removable from the housing 102. The side panel 114 can be a sign having indicia thereon. For example, the decorative side panel 114 can include advertising information thereon.

The table 104 has an area greater than the area of the top 116 of the housing 102. As such, the ventilation tubes 106 will extend from the housing 102 to the outer edge 118 of the table 104. The top 116 of the housing 102 actually covers an air plenum located within the housing 102. The plurality of ventilation tubes 106 will extend from this air plenum and extend outwardly of the housing 102. As can be seen, there is a frame 120 that secures the ventilation tubes 106 to the underside of the table 104. In this configuration, the plurality of ventilation tubes 106 will be located at the underside of the table 104. The frame 120, in combination with the ventilation tubes 106, can provide further structural integrity to the table 104. The location of the ventilation tubes 106 beneath the table 104 serves to insulate the ventilation tubes 106 from the outdoor elements, such as heat and sunshine. Additionally, by extending the ventilation tubes 106 to the outer edge 118 of the table 104, the cooling or heating air from the HVAC system is delivered in close proximity to a person sitting at the table 104.

The air outlet 108 is cooperative with the HVAC system and allows air to be piped to the exterior of the housing 102 and beyond the table 104. In particular, the air outlet 108 delivers cooling or heating air into the interior of a conduit 110. The conduit 110 can be in the nature of the table umbrella. The air outlet 108 can include suitable valves or dampers so as to control the amount of air that flows from the interior of the housing 100 and from the HVAC system into the conduit 110. The conduit 110 is supported upon the underlying surface by a panel 122. A portion of the housing 102 or the feet or wheels 112 rests upon this panel 122 so as to provide support for the conduit 110.

FIG. 6 shows that the conduit 110 is directed to a table umbrella 126. Table umbrella 126 will extend over the table 104 and will extend over person seated at chairs 128 at the table 104. As such, if heat is desired to be delivered to person sitting in the chairs 128, the HVAC system can deliver heated air through the conduit 110, through pipe 130, and downwardly from the umbrella 126. Alternatively, if cooling air is desired by the people sitting in the chairs 128, then the conduit 110 can deliver air-conditioned or cooled air through the pipe 130 and downwardly from the umbrella 126. At the same time, the people sitting in the chairs 128 can receive heated or cooled air from the ventilation tubes 106 at the periphery of the table 104.

FIG. 7 is a detailed view showing the ventilation tube 106 located at the periphery or outer edge 118 of the table 104. There is a frame 120 which has an upper edge affixed to the underside of the table 104 and which extends downwardly in a generally V-shaped configuration around the underside of the ventilation tube 106. The ventilation tube 106 has a louver set 132 positioned therein. Louver set 132 is adjustable so as to control the direction of airflow from the ventilation tube 106 or to control the volume of air flowing from the ventilation tube 106. For example, when the louver set 132 is closed, the air will not pass outwardly from the ventilation tube 106. In the configuration shown in FIG. 6, the airflow will be generally parallel to the table 104.

FIG. 8 shows the configuration of the ventilation tubes 106 that extend from an air plenum 134. The air plenum 134 is connected so as to receive air from the HVAC system 136. The HVAC system will have a configuration similar to that shown in FIGS. 1-4 hereinbefore. The HVAC system 136 will operate so as to deliver air into the air plenum 134. The air from the air plenum 134 is forced outwardly through the plurality of ventilation tubes 106. The plurality of ventilation tubes 106 are shown as configured in a generally cruciform shape. The HVAC system 136 will have a frame 138 extending upwardly. Frame 138 can receive the underside of the table 104 thereon and can also serve to secure each of the plurality of ventilation tubes 106 in its proper orientation. An electrical line 140 is configured so as to deliver power to the HVAC system 136. The electrical line 140 can also be connected to an electrical outlet that is positioned on the housing 102 or on the table 104. As such, the user of the outdoor environmental control apparatus 100 of the present invention will have 110 volt power available for use at the table.

FIG. 9 illustrates the outlet 108 that is connected to a conduit 110. In FIG. 9, the conduit 110 can extend to a remote location. It can also extend under the patio upon which the table 104 is supported. The conduit 110 can be connected to other items for the purposes of delivering cooled or heated air thereto. These other items can be in the nature of cabanas, hammocks, or other small enclosures. In FIG. 9, it can be seen that a band 150 is wrapped around the an end of the outlet 108 and also wrapped around an end of the conduit 110.

FIG. 10 shows that there is a quick-connect/quick-disconnect coupler. One portion of this coupler 152 is connected to the outlet 108. Another side 154 of the coupler is connected to the conduit 110. As such, when the quick-connect/quick-disconnect coupler is engaged, the conduit 110 can receive cooled air or heated air from the HVAC system. All that is necessary to separate the conduit 110 from the air outlet 108 is a simple twist and pull of the quick-connect/quick-disconnect coupler.

FIG. 11 shows a console 160 that can be affixed to the top surface of the table 104. The console 160 has a ventilation port 162 formed on an outer surface thereof. The ventilation port 162 also has louvers 164 mounted therein. The ventilation port 162 can, if desired, be connected to the HVAC system 136 or connected to one or more of the ventilation tubes 106. Alternatively, if desired, the ventilation port 162 could also be connected to the air outlet 108. Ultimately, the ventilation port 162 will deliver air in the direction of the face of the person sitting at the table. The console 160 is rotatably mounted to the table 104 with a lazy Susan-type of structure 166. As such, the ventilation port 162 can be rotated with respect to the table 104 so as to be properly directed to a person sitting at the table. Importantly, there is a receptacle that is formed in the top surface 168 of the console 160. As will be described hereinafter, the receptacle formed in the top surface 168 is adapted to receive a table umbrella or a radiant heater therein. The console 160 can also include a 110 volt electrical outlet thereon. Various other appliances, such as described in the prior art, can also be placed on the console 160.

FIG. 12 shows a table umbrella 170 that has a pole 172 received within the receptacle 174 of the console 160. Console 160 is affixed to or placed upon the top surface 176 of the table 104. The table umbrella 170 is shown in its expanded configuration. The canopy 178 of the table umbrella 170 can also be folded onto the pole 172. FIG. 12 further shows that the housing 102 supports the table 104 thereon. The feet or wheels 112 are adjustable so as to allow the height of the table 104 to be adapted to the desires of person sitting at the table.

FIG. 13 shows the use of a radiant lamp 180 having a pole 182 received within the receptacle of the console 160. The radiant heater 180 can be powered from the fuel from a propane tank. As such, the radiant heater 180 can deliver radiant heat the person sitting at the table 104. The propane tank for the radiant heater 110 can be received within the interior of the housing 102.

The foregoing disclosure and description of the invention is illustrative and explanatory thereof. Various changes in the details of the illustrated construction can be made within the scope of the appended claims without departing from the true spirit of the invention. The present invention should only be limited by the following claims and their legal equivalents.

Claims

1. An outdoor environmental control system comprising:

a housing;

a heating, ventilation or air-conditioning (HVAC) system positioned in said housing, said HVAC system adapted to pass air outwardly of said housing;

a table positioned at or adjacent to a top of said housing; and

at least one ventilation tube positioned at an underside of said table and adapted to pass the air outwardly from said HVAC system.

2. The outdoor environmental control system of claim 1, the ventilation tube extending from said housing to an edge of said table.

3. The outdoor environmental control system of claim 2, the ventilation to being affixed by a frame to an underside of said table.

4. The outdoor environmental control system of claim 3, the ventilation tube comprising a plurality of ventilation tubes extending in a cruciform pattern.

5. The outdoor environmental control system of claim 4, further comprising:

an air plenum positioned adjacent atop of said housing and connected to said HVAC system, said air plenum adapted to receive air from said HVAC system, said plurality of ventilation tubes each having one end communicating with said air plenum, said table positioned at a top of said air plenum.

6. The outdoor environmental control system of claim 1, the ventilation tube having a louver set at one end thereof, said louver set adapted to allow a person at said table to control a direction or a volume of air delivered from the ventilation tube.

7. The outdoor environmental control system of claim 1, further comprising:

an air outlet connected to said HVAC system and extending from a side of said housing, said air outlet adapted to allow air from said HVAC system to pass outwardly from said housing.

8. The outdoor environment control system of claim 7, said air outlet having a coupling at an end thereof, said coupling adapted to allow said air outlet to be connected to a conduit.

9. The outdoor environmental control system of claim 1, further comprising:

a console positioned at a top surface of said table, said console communicating with said HVAC system so as to pass air from said HVAC system outwardly at said top of said table.

10. The outdoor environmental control system of claim 1, further comprising:

a console rotatably mounted at a top surface of said table.

11. The outdoor environmental control system of claim 1, further comprising:

a console positioned at a top surface of said table, said console having a receptacle formed therein, said receptacle adapted to receive a tubular member therein.

12. The outdoor environmental control system of claim 11, said tubular member being a table umbrella or a radiant heater.

13. The outdoor environmental control system of claim 1, further comprising:

a plurality of feet affixed to an underside of said housing, said plurality of feet adapted to allow a user to adjust a height of said table.

14. The outdoor environmental control system of claim 1, further comprising:

a plurality of wheels mounted to an underside of said housing, said plurality of wheels adapted to allow a user to move said housing on an underlying surface.

15. The outdoor environmental control system of claim 1, said housing having at least one decorative side panel, the decorative side panel being removably mounted to said housing.

16. The outdoor environmental control system of claim 1, said housing or said table having an electrical outlet thereon.

17. The outdoor environmental control system of claim 7, further comprising:

an umbrella having a pole connected to said air outlet, said HVAC system directing air through said air outlet and through said pole of said umbrella.

18. An outdoor environmental control system comprising:

a housing;

a heating, ventilation or air-conditioning (HVAC) system positioned in said housing, said HVAC system adapted to pass air outwardly of said housing;

a table positioned at or adjacent to a top of said housing;

at least one ventilation tube positioned at an underside of said table and adapted to pass the air outwardly from said HVAC system; and

an air outlet connected to said HVAC system and extending from a side of said housing, said air outlet adapted to allow air from said HVAC system to pass outwardly from said housing.

19. The outdoor environmental control system of claim 18, said ventilation tube extending from said housing to an edge of said table, the ventilation tube being affixed by a frame to an underside of said table, the ventilation tube comprising a plurality of ventilation tubes extending in a cruciform pattern, the outdoor environmental control system further comprising:

an air plenum positioned adjacent a top of said housing and connected to said HVAC system, said air plenum adapted to receive air from said HVAC system, said plurality of ventilation tubes having one end communicating with said air plenum, the table positioned at a top of said air plenum.

20. An outdoor environmental control system comprising:

a housing;

a heating, ventilation or air-conditioning (HVAC) system positioned in said housing, said HVAC system adapted to pass outwardly of said housing;

a table positioned at or adjacent to a top of said housing;

at least one ventilation tube positioned at an underside of said table and adapted to pass the air outwardly from said HVAC system; and

a console positioned at a top surface of said table, said console having a receptacle formed therein, said receptacle adapted to receive a tubular member therein, said tubular member being a table umbrella or a radiant heater.