Abstract: A modular brick or block outdoor structure includes an outdoor structure that is constructed in modular sections. Each modular section is fabricated from a plurality of paving bricks or retaining wall blocks that match the brick or block used to construct the patio. The bricks or blocks are preferably assembled to each other with adhesive. Each modular section includes means for transporting thereof with some type of equipment, if necessary. It is preferable that each modular section include channels to receive lifting forks of an end loader or other suitable transport device, if necessary. However, other methods of transporting the modular section may also be used.

Abstract: A linear fireplace system, assemblies, modular units, and related methods that can be installed in a modular fashion at a selected installation location so as to avoid drawbacks experienced in the prior art. The system can include modular linear units, corner units, and/or end units interconnectable to form a modular linear fireplace assembly. The system can include an alignment track system with a track member that receives alignment rails on the bottom of the modular units to axially align the interconnected units. The system can include a combustion air flow passage within the fireplace that maintains a relatively low exterior temperature of the assembly and that allows combustible and non-combustible building materials to be installed against or immediately adjacent to the top and base portions of the modular units of the assembly.

Abstract: A combination outdoor ventless fireplace and brick oven system includes a main body with a framework assembly. A fireplace firebox is formed in the framework assembly. An oven firebox is formed in the framework assembly and suspended above the fireplace firebox. A chimney flue is disposed above the oven firebox in the framework assembly. The framework assembly is covered by a refractory heat resistant mortar. The fireplace firebox has an aperture. The system also has a gas line disposed in the framework assembly below the aperture. The gas line is configured to connect the aperture with a gaseous fuel source. A burner pan may be disposed in the aperture.

Abstract: An entertainment device is disclosed herein which integrates a fire feature, a water feature, a music system, and a controlled lighting feature into a single piece of furniture.

Abstract: A device for starting and maintaining a campfire includes an inner combustible structure formed from a plurality of inner combustible members having bottom end portions separated and secured to a top planar wall of a combustible lower support member. The device further includes an outer combustible structure formed from a plurality of outer combustible members having bottom end portions separated and secured to edge portions of the combustible lower support member. A fire accelerant is disposed in an inner portion of the inner combustible structure to promote a faster starting campfire.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are directed to methods, systems, and devices for replacing a token on a user device, such as a transaction card. The transaction card includes tokens representing an actual account identifier which is not visible on the transaction card. The transaction card may store a first token on a and include a digital display that displays a second token. When the first token or the second token is compromised, the compromised token is replaced without replacing the transaction card. When the second token is compromised, the compromised token is replaced with a new replacement second token using an electronic device. The replacement second token replaces the old second token on the digital display. After the second token is compromised and before the replacement second token is provisioned on the transaction card, the transaction card may still be used for transactions using other tokens provisioned on the card.

Abstract: A fireplace cavity insert provides still and video images appearing to emanate from within the insert.

Abstract: The present invention includes a fire pit and a system for using the fire pit that includes distinct structures. The fire pit includes an air inlet that allows in forced air for the coursing thereof through a hollowed housing for release through an air outlet. The fire pit may include a plenum that generates a virtual chimney of forced air that directs smoke upward and away from bystanders.

Abstract: A linear fireplace system, assemblies, modular units, and related methods that can be installed in a modular fashion at a selected installation location so as to avoid drawbacks experienced in the prior art. The system can include modular linear units, corner units, and/or end units interconnectable to form a modular linear fireplace assembly. The system can include an alignment track system with a track member that receives alignment rails on the bottom of the modular units to axially align the interconnected units. The system can include a combustion air flow passage within the fireplace that maintains a relatively low exterior temperature of the assembly and that allows combustible and non-combustible building materials to be installed against or immediately adjacent to the top and base portions of the modular units of the assembly.

Abstract: A filter for an internal combustion engine is used to separate liquid suspended particles from a gas discharged from a crankcase of the internal combustion engine to avoid a rise in engine crankcase pressure. The filter includes at least one filter portion for coarse separation, at least one filter portion for fine separation, and at least one drainage layer arranged within the at least one filter portion for fine separation.

Abstract: A modular building system that is all-inclusive for completing a structural project from the foundation up using unskilled labor is provided. The modular building system includes a plurality of modular sections, each modular section formed from the interconnection of floor, wall, roof, and arch panel components, wherein all panel component interconnections are brought to a locking engagement by way of the same interlocking tabs and rails assembly, so that an unskilled laborer may complete a complete structural project interconnecting various types of modular building sections.

Abstract: A modular flue adapter system and method is described to accommodate a conduit for exhaust between a firebox and a firebox flue, wherein the firebox is inserted into a firebox opening, by providing an offset distance and/or direction between the exhaust of the firebox and the firebox flue.

Abstract: A precast module built specifically with a dimension of 28??0?×11??8? vertical exterior walls 4? thick, horizontal walls 3? thick and a floor 4? thick. The horizontal walls are connected with attachment of rods to the vertical wall, while providing a number of openings in the horizontal and vertical walls allow access to the interior of the building unit and carrying out various plates weld in the top of the walls. The roof is constructed separately from the module, pouring concrete and is provided with through holes for locating screws and passes, and several welding plates to attach or connect to the roof and walls and have a connection to the roof and thus form an integral unit of construction.

Abstract: A fireplace unit includes a pair of spaced apart opposite, upright sidewalls. The sidewalls define an interior compartment of the fireplace unit. The sidewalls each have a forward end and rearward end substantially aligned along lines that converge rearwardly. The sidewalls are one of (1) joined directly together at the rearward ends and (2) joined together at the rearward ends by an upright rear wall having a transverse width that is less than ¾ of the transverse width of each of the sidewalls for at least a majority of the rear wall's length. The upper end of each of the sidewall slopes upward from the forward end toward the rearward end. A floor extends between the sidewalls for closing the lower end of the interior compartment. A cover is coupled to the upper ends of the sidewalls for closing the upper end of the interior compartment. A flue is provided for directing smoke and air out of the interior compartment. A smoke diversion body is provided for forming a smoke flow area constriction.

Abstract: A fireplace outer wrap configured to be located behind a mounting wall, the fireplace outer wrap having an outer-wrap opening facing outwards from an opening in the mounting wall. The fireplace comprises a flush-mounted assembly coupled to the fireplace outer wrap, including a surround structure configured to encompass a perimeter of the opening in the mounting wall and be positioned in front of the fireplace outer wrap located behind the mounting wall, and a bezel structure configured to fit within the outer surround structure. An inner edge perimeter of the surround structure and an outer edge perimeter of the bezel structure oppose each other and define a gap between the inner edge perimeter and the outer edge perimeter such that air can flow through the gap. An outside major surface of the surround structure and an outside major surface of the bezel structure are substantially co-planar with each other and with an exterior surface of the mounting wall.

Abstract: A television/space heater combination device for displaying image content and for heating air and method of using the same is presented. The television/space heater combination device includes a television, a space heater and, sometimes, a frame. The method of use includes activating the space heater; selecting a temperature value for the space heater; generating heat and distributing the same into a room from the space heater; activating the television; and displaying an image on a screen of the television while generating heat with the space heater. The displayed image may be an image of a wood or gas burning fireplace generated by a continuous video loop; or be images from regular television programming or images generated by data transmitted to the television by a remote computer.

Abstract: A modular brick or block outdoor structure includes an outdoor structure that is constructed in modular sections. Each modular section is fabricated from a plurality of paving bricks or retaining wall blocks that match the brick or block used to construct the patio. The bricks or blocks are preferably assembled to each other with adhesive. Each modular section includes means for transporting thereof with some type of equipment, if necessary. It is preferable that each modular section include channels to receive lifting forks of an end loader or other suitable transport device, if necessary. However, other methods of transporting the modular section may also be used.

Abstract: A solid fuel burner may include a system for electrodynamic homogenization. One or more electrodes may apply an electric field to burning solid fuel or a region proximate the burning solid fuel. The electric field causes mixing and homogenization of volatilized fractions of the solid fuel, combustion gases, and air. The improved mixing and homogenization may reduce emission of carbon monoxide (CO), reduce emission of oxides of nitrogen (NOx), reduce oxygen in flue gas, increase temperature of flue gas, and/or allow for a larger grate surface.

Abstract: An apparatus for decorating a fireplace is provided. The apparatus includes a fireplace insert at least one insert plate. The insert is configured to exist within the environment of the fireplace. The insert creatively illustrates a decorative theme such as a small scale scene within the fireplace. The insert can include a plurality of plates providing a three dimensional scene within the fireplace.

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.

Abstract: A method for making a modular outdoor fireplace having textured exterior surfaces simulating natural stone or bricks and mortar. At least a fire-box unit and a chimney unit are cast from concrete with textured exterior surfaces. After placing the fire-box unit on a support surface, a fireplace insert is positioned in the fire-box unit and the chimney unit is supported either on the fire-box unit or on a cast concrete mantle which is first placed on the fire-box unit. The support surface may be a cast concrete hearth. A metal chimney is inserted through the chimney unit and the mantle and secured to the fireplace insert. A cast concrete cap is placed on the chimney unit.

Abstract: A modular brick or block outdoor structure includes an outdoor structure that is constructed in modular sections. Each modular section is fabricated from a plurality of paving bricks or retaining wall blocks that match the brick or block used to construct the patio. The bricks or blocks are preferably assembled to each other with adhesive. Each modular section includes means for transporting thereof with some type of equipment, if necessary. It is preferable that each modular section include channels to receive lifting forks of an end loader or other suitable transport device, if necessary. However, other methods of transporting the modular section may also be used.

Abstract: One aspect provides a heating device comprising a firebox having a hearth therein and first and second heat exchange chambers, and a heat exchanging plate having a first surface and a second opposing surface. The heat exchanging plate is suspended above the hearth, such that the first surface is located between the hearth and the second surface. The heat exchanging plate has lower protrusions extending from the first surface and into the first heat exchange chamber, and upper protrusions extending from the second surface and into the second heat exchange chamber. A method of manufacturing a heating device is also disclosed.

Abstract: A ventless fireplace is provided, including a protective fireplace door, a wall positioned behind the protective fireplace door, a hearth surface positioned adjacent the wall, the protective fireplace door, wall and hearth surface defining a cavity the hearth surface further defining an opening therein, and a mechanical structure for housing one or more fuel cells positioned below the hearth surface, so that when operational, one or more flames emanating from the one or more fuel cells supported by the mechanical structure pass through the opening in the hearth surface. The protective door further includes a door frame, a door bezel hingedly attached to the door frame by one or more hinges, a door screen fixed within the door bezel, and a latch assembly fixed to the door frame to selectively engage the door bezel from the door frame.

Abstract: A refractory panel is formed with recesses delineating a pair of adjoining brick relief patterns. One or more depressions are formed in the recesses such that grout or the like placed in the recesses form fingers that harden into position.

Abstract: A device, system and method for heating fluid (air) in a flue to create a draw prior to combusting a fuel in a combustion device. The device, system and method includes a housing that may be integrated about the flue. The housing may include a heat exchanger that itself may include a heating source that may be in thermal communication with the flue and a temperature differentiation driver. The heat exchanger may operate to transfer heat energy from the heating source to a fluid constrained to a path created by the flue. The result is a pressure differential created within the flue to help draw the fluid out of the combustion device. The heat exchanger may be configured such that it may cause heat transfer to the heavier, more dense fluid contained within the ventilation system prior to combusting fuel in a combustion device, thereby causing the fluid to be relatively less dense thus creating a draw.

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.

Abstract: A modular flue adapter system and method is described to accommodate a conduit for exhaust between a firebox and a firebox flue, wherein the firebox is inserted into a firebox opening, by providing an offset distance and/or direction between the exhaust of the firebox and the firebox flue.

Abstract: A method and system for conversion of a fireplace to an updated or different model or configuration is provided. For example, such conversion can apply to any fireplace configuration, indoor and outdoor, commercial and residential, to provide a different fireplace appearance. A converted fireplace comprises an existing firebox, an existing exhaust system, a shell and replacement firebox, and an exhaust adapter. The firebox and exhaust system typically comprise the existing structure within a residential or commercial fireplace installation. The firebox can he of various heights, widths and depths, and yet still be converted, while the exhaust system can comprise various configurations, such as B-vent, direct vent and the like, and yet coupled to the replacement fireplace unit.

Abstract: Methods and systems for reducing combustion emissions generated in, or released from, a combustion chamber are provided. Systems and methods provided herein may be used to modify, for example, an existing fireplace such that combustion emissions resulting from burning a fuel combustion source are reduced. The method involves providing an emission reduction system which includes a casing assembly with at least one panel of a catalyst-coated media and a support structure supporting the casing assembly. The casing assembly is positioned between a fuel combustion source and a flue by associating the support structure with an interior surface of the firebox. The fuel combustion source is burned to create a fire, such that the catalyst-coated media reduces emissions associated with fuel combustion when contacted with combustion exhaust.

Abstract: The heat reflecting arrangement with an improved high heat resistance, e.g. 100 hours at 500° C., includes a substrate, a heat reflecting layer (A) on at least one side of the substrate, which contains indium tin oxide (ITO), and a barrier layer (B) that covers the heat reflecting layer (A), which contains a metal oxide and/or a metal nitride. A fireplace or baking oven with a viewing window having this layer system with the heat reflecting layer is also described. In addition a process for providing the heat reflecting arrangement is described.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for creating an insulated barrier within a fireplace is described. A compressible insulator may be placed in a fireplace. Within the fireplace, the compressible insulator may be placed above a lintel on the inside of a firebox opening. The compressible insulator may also be placed below a damper. The compressible insulator may be used to insulate a fireplace and increase the temperature differential between the living space and air trapped between the compressible insulator and the damper. The trapped air may also increase the temperature differential between the living space and the chimney above the damper.

Abstract: An edge guard for use adjacent an edge. The edge guard comprises a cushion member and an edge attachment. The cushion member includes a first face, a second face, and a cushion edge portion disposed between them. Both faces have inner portions extending away from the cushion edge portion towards end portions. The inner portions are positioned adjacent surfaces surrounding the edge. The edge attachment includes an upper surface, an attached end, and a distal end. The attached end is attached to one of the end portions of the cushion member. The edge attachment is stiffer than the cushion member. The upper surface of the edge attachment is separated a distance from the surface it is positioned adjacent that tapers from a larger distance at the attached end to a smaller distance at the distal end.

Abstract: A presettable gas valve is disclosed herein. The gas valve may have a maximum gas flow that can be adjusted to the particular requirements of the fireplace in which the gas valve is used. By way of example and not limitation, for real biomass/fuel burning fireplaces, the gas valve may be opened to its maximum level with a quarter turn of a handle. In contrast, for fake fireplaces, which require more gas flow compared to real fireplaces, the gas valve may be opened to its maximum level with a half turn of the handle. The maximum gas flow through the gas valve may be set during installation such that the user does not need to manually determine the appropriate amount of gas during use.

Abstract: A fireplace assembly is disclosed and includes a smoke chamber, a firebox, a throat in fluid communication with and linking the smoke chamber and the insulated firebox and a divider positioned within said throat and defining a front air channel and a rear air channel within the throat. The fireplace assembly of the present invention offers reductions in particulate emissions when compared to traditional open-burning fireplaces and has comparable particulate emissions to wood stoves and built-in wood stoves.

Abstract: An outdoor fireplace is disclosed, the outdoor fireplace including a housing chamber having walls formed from a natural stone material and a metal insert disposed in the housing chamber to militate against a transfer of heat to the natural stone material and further surrounding area.

Abstract: A fireplace assembly having a firebox, an igniter assembly coupled to the firebox and containing a heating element, a first portion of the igniter assembly extending through an aperture in a firebox wall, the igniter assembly having a first connector coupled to the heating element and coupleable to power source, and having a second connector coupleable to an air source and positioned to provide air flow through the igniter assembly over the heating element and into the firebox. A controller is operatively coupled to the igniter assembly and a temperature sensor. The controller controls operation of the heating element, the temperature sensor, and the air flow through the igniter assembly, and can activate and deactivate the igniter assembly based upon the temperature within the firebox.

Abstract: A portable waterfall feature is provided for use on a fireplace having a mantle and a fireplace opening, and includes a water reservoir; tubing connectors and connectable tubing pieces, which may be assembled to extend upward from the water reservoir when the reservoir is placed at the bottom of the fireplace opening and around the one end of the mantle to be connected to a dispensing tubing piece connectable at the top of the mantle. A flexible curtain hangs down over the front of the mantle and in front of the fireplace opening over the water reservoir so that water that is pumped from the water reservoir flows upward through the assembled tubing pieces, is dispensed from the dispensing tubing piece along the top side of the flexible curtain; and flows down the flexible curtain and back into the reservoir.

Abstract: A windscreen having base positionable adjacent a fire, a first body portion removeably secured to the base in a substantially vertical orientation, and a securing member connected to the first body portion and capable of removeably securing a second body portion above or next to the first body portion.

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.

Abstract: A presettable gas valve is disclosed herein. The gas valve may have a maximum gas flow that can be adjusted to the particular requirements of the fireplace in which the gas valve is used. By way of example and not limitation, for real biomass/fuel burning fireplaces, the gas valve may be opened to its maximum level with a quarter turn of a handle. In contrast, for fake fireplaces, which require more gas flow compared to real fireplaces, the gas valve may be opened to its maximum level with a half turn of the handle. The maximum gas flow through the gas valve may be set during installation such that the user does not need to manually determine the appropriate amount of gas during use.

Abstract: A fireplace unit includes a pair of spaced apart opposite, upright sidewalls defining an interior compartment of the fireplace unit. The sidewalls each have a forward end and rearward end substantially aligned along lines that converge rearwardly. The sidewalls are one of (1) joined directly together at the rearward ends and (2) joined together at the rearward ends by an upright rear wall having a transverse width that is less than ¾ of the transverse width of each of the sidewalls for at least a majority of the rear wall's length. The upper end of each of the sidewall slopes upward from the forward end toward the rearward end. A floor extends between the sidewalls for closing the lower end of the interior compartment. A cover is coupled to the upper ends of the sidewalls for closing the upper end of the interior compartment. A flue is also provided.

Abstract: A fireplace assembly comprising a base defining a recess for receiving a fireplace, a fireplace releasably held within the recess, and wherein the base is a functional piece of furniture when the fireplace is removed. A method of removing and replacing a fireplace comprising the steps of providing a first base defining a recess, locating a fireplace within the recess, removing the fireplace from the first base to provide a functional piece of furniture, and locating the fireplace within the recess.

Abstract: An improved fire grate may provide fresh oxygen rich air to a secondary combustion zone, created by the improved fire grate, of a combustion chamber where a combustion gas stream is typically oxygen starved assisting in the burning process of incompletely burned particulates and reducing other harmful emissions. A baffle plate may be introduced in the secondary combustion zone to increase a combustion chamber temperature, encourage mixing of oxygen starved air with oxygen rich air and increase a residence time of the combustion gas within the combustion chamber. These aspects of the baffle plate promote more efficient burning of the biomass/fuel. Additionally, log lighter(s) may be disposed in the secondary combustion zone to increase a temperature of the combustion chamber for the purposes of reducing harmful emissions.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to pieces of furniture for housing electronic devices and that give the appearance of being permanently built into a wall. The pieces of furniture comprise panels which can easily be removed and which house and hide wires of electronic devices, giving the appearance that the wires are housed beyond the wall. Additionally, the pieces of furniture are designed to have electronic devices mounted thereon with little mounting (i.e., studs are unnecessary) or no mounting to secure the piece of furniture onto the wall.

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.

Abstract: A computer-controlled matrix of pixels that emit bursts of fire in a controlled manner to create moving images and text on a plane in front of the matrix. The unit houses a number of pixels in a grid array, with each pixel associated with a solenoid gas valve. The valves are supplied by a main gas bus and when actuated release gas to an individual pixel, where it flows out and over a constantly burning pilot light and combusts. The valves are connected through a main circuit box to a computer, and are controlled by software that allows the user to script and play complex graphical animations, musical compositions, scrolling text, as well as real-time graphical response to specific user inputs.

Abstract: An air-intake assembly adapted for use with a fire container assembly includes a first plate and a plurality of vanes. The plurality of vanes is engaged to the first plate. Each of the vanes includes a first longitudinal side engaged to the first plate and an oppositely disposed second longitudinal side. The plurality of vanes defines a plurality of pathways. A chamber is cooperatively defined by the first plate and the plurality of vanes. The chamber extends through the first plate. The plurality of pathways swirl air about a longitudinal axis of the chamber.

Abstract: According to embodiments of the present invention, a pellet stove includes a firepot assembly with a bottom plate slideable along rails to move between a closed position during combustion in the firepot and an open position during ash removal. According to other embodiments, a firebox or combustion enclosure includes a plurality of airfoils formed on the inner and outer surfaces of the enclosure to facilitate heat exchange between exhaust gases flowing across the inner surface of the enclosure and air blown across the outer surface of the enclosure. According to some embodiments, the airfoils and enclosure are of integral unibody construction. According to yet other embodiments, a user sets parameters via a wall control unit, and a stove control unit receives the parameters and automatically controls fuel feed rate, ignition, convection blower, combustion blower, and/or firepot cleaning based on the one or more parameters.

Abstract: A hybrid wood-burning fireplace assembly configured for burning wood-based fuel, wherein the burning generates combustion exhaust. The assembly comprising a fire box having an interior area, a baffle in the interior area defining lower and upper combustion chambers relative to the baffle. The upper combustion chamber has an upper exhaust passageway between baffle and the top portion of the firebox. A secondary combustion airway has air outlets in the firebox that direct the secondary combustion air adjacent to the baffle to mix with the exhaust for non-catalytic secondary combustion of the exhaust before the exhaust flows through the upper exhaust passageway. A catalytic combustion unit is positioned above the baffle and across the upper exhaust passageway, whereby the exhaust will pass through the catalytic combustion unit after the non-catalytic secondary combustion of the exhaust and before the exhaust exits the upper combustion chamber through the upper exhaust passageway.