Fireplaces Or Accessories Patents (Class 126/500)
  • Publication number: 20040255929
    Abstract: A heating generating appliance including an opening device configured to automatically open doors of the appliance. The opening device functions based on user input or can be controlled automatically via the appliance controls to open and/or close the doors of the appliance as desired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2004
    Publication date: December 23, 2004
    Inventors: David Jon Miller, Robert Samuel Waddell, Brynn Douglas Rogers, Thomas J. Bachinski
  • Publication number: 20040226553
    Abstract: A draft control system and method can provide for automated control of the air drafting for heating systems. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary draft control system comprises at least one draft plate and a draft plate control system. Draft plate control system can comprise a control unit, one or more input devices, and one or more actuation systems. During operation, the control unit can receive a signal from an input device and use the actuation system to automatically adjust the amount of air intake by controlling movement of one or more draft plates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2004
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Inventors: Robert A. Little, George H. K. Lau, E. Wayne Thurber
  • Publication number: 20040211409
    Abstract: The present invention provides a protective, adjustable hearth guard for a raised hearth and methods of protectively covering the raised hearth. The hearth guard may comprise a first and a second end section, an adjustable center section, means to connect the sections and fastening means. Furthermore, the present invention provides a removable, adjustable and decorative fabric to cover the hearth guard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2003
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Inventor: Mary Ellet
  • Publication number: 20040211408
    Abstract: The present invention provides a protective, adjustable hearth guard for a raised hearth and methods of protectively covering the raised hearth. The hearth guard may comprise a first and a second end section, an adjustable center section, means to connect the sections and fastening means. Furthermore, the present invention provides a removable, adjustable and decorative fabric to cover the hearth guard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2003
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Inventor: Mary Ellet
  • Patent number: 6796088
    Abstract: A fireplace assembly is comprised of a fireplace surround having surround leg portions which may be inserted into a base to adjust the elevation of the fireplace surround. The base may include one or more elongated slots or other openings for receiving lower end portions of the surround leg portions. These surround leg portions may be slidably coupled or otherwise movable relative to a surround breast portion to facilitate width adjustment of the spacing between the surround leg portions. A mantel assembly may also be included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: Yoder Stove and Supply, Inc.
    Inventors: David Bruce Richmond, Edwin Glen Yoder, Jeffrey Lee Yoder
  • Patent number: 6790033
    Abstract: A fireplace fountain having a base, a basin adapted to hold a liquid supported by the base, and a hood supported by the base over the basin. A fire pan is supported by the base over the basin and under the hood, with a burner being supported above the fire pan and adapted to be connected to a fuel source. A perforated tubing is supported in the hood, with a pump and supply tube connected thereto. The pump and supply tube are in fluid communication with the basin so that liquid held in the basin may be circulated by a pump to the perforated tubing. Liquid exits the perforated tubing and falls into the basin, but not into the fire pan so that the liquid does not extinguish any flame generated by the burner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Fleming Sales Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey T. Grady, David Henke, Kent Bach
  • Publication number: 20040173202
    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: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2003
    Publication date: September 9, 2004
    Inventors: David Charles Lyons, Thomas J. Bachinski, Robert Samuel Waddell, Richard Berg, Scott Stephen Jeutter, Kurt Matthew Schwie
  • Publication number: 20040129265
    Abstract: A firewood receptacle for mounting in an aperture formed in an outer wall of a structure such as a house or cabin, includes a frame for fitting in the aperture, an outside closure member having a bottom edge, an outside stop affixed to the outside closure member, an inside closure member having a bottom edge, an inside stop affixed to the inside closure member and a bottom member. The outside closure member, the inside closure member and the bottom member form a container which is in a generally truncated V-shape in cross-section so that the container can be pivoted from outside the structure to inside the structure. Firewood can be placed in the container from outside the structure when the container is pivoted outside and firewood can be removed from the container inside the structure when the container is pivoted inside. In one form, the outside closure member is substantially rectangular, the inside closure member is substantially rectangular and the bottom member is substantially rectangular.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2003
    Publication date: July 8, 2004
    Inventor: Harvey D. Lynch
  • Patent number: 6748941
    Abstract: A fireplace system, constructed of modules including a firebox, a chimney housing, and a base, each module substantially a block of foam. The firebox has a fire cavity which is lined with fire resistant board to protect the foam from direct exposure to heat. The chimney housing has a central bore and a flue extending concentrically therethrough which has an inner tube in communication with the fire cavity and a concentric and spaced outer tube which is attached to the central bore to impede the flow of heat from the inner tube to the foam chimney housing. The chimney housing, base, and firebox are selectively attached together using connector sets which each include a pair of connection devices, one of which is partially submerged and anchored within the foam of each of the modules to be joined. The modules are joined by mating the connection devices of each connection set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Inventor: Stephen Ross
  • Publication number: 20040089289
    Abstract: A modular multiple-mode gas-fueled assembly, comprises a holder. The holder is arranged to rest within a base grate or on the floor of a firebox. The holder includes a hollow distribution frame having an inlet port and a plurality of outlet ports. In one embodiment, each of the outlet ports are at the distal end of a respective column of the distribution frame. A plurality of support plates engage the outer surface of each respective column of the distribution frame. An imitation candle rests on each respective support plate. In an alternative embodiment, each of the plurality of outlet ports are substantially encompassed within imitation logs that rest on the holder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2003
    Publication date: May 13, 2004
    Inventor: Craig M. Tingley
  • Publication number: 20040081930
    Abstract: A proximity warning system for a fireplace including a monitor module and an alarm module. The monitor module is configured to sense when an object, such as a person, enters a defined zone proximate to the fireplace. The monitor module may use a variety of techniques to sense when an object enters the defined zone. For example, the monitor module may use capacitance or pulse infrared light to detect when an object enters the defined zone. The alarm module is coupled to the monitor module to generate an alarm when the monitor module senses that the object has entered the defined zone. The alarm may be audible or visual.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2003
    Publication date: April 29, 2004
    Applicant: HON Technology Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas J. Bachinski, David J. Oja
  • Publication number: 20040065318
    Abstract: A fireback or use in domestic open fireplaces and which in use surrounds the firebed and which extends upwardly to a throat which in use connects with a chimney. The fireback (25) has walls with inner surfaces (26) that slope steadily inwardly from near its base (30) to the throat (29) decreasing the cross sectional area of the fireback, the larger area being at the level of the fire bed and smaller area being adjacent the throat(29).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2003
    Publication date: April 8, 2004
    Inventor: Douglas Hadfield
  • Patent number: 6715724
    Abstract: An adjustable support structure for a fireplace including upper and lower bars extending in a longitudinal direction, the upper bar being positioned above the lower bar and including a surface upon which the fireplace can rest. First and second cross bars are also included, each with upper and lower ends, the upper end of the first cross bar being coupled to the upper bar and the lower end of the second cross bar being coupled to the lower bar. The lower end of the first cross bar is moveably coupled to the lower bar and the upper end of the second cross bar is moveably coupled to the upper bar such that the upper bar may be adjusted upwards in a plane with respect to the lower bar to a desired height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Assignee: Hon Technology Inc.
    Inventors: Jack Jason Wells, Matthew Carter Wicks, Daniel Lee Holt
  • Publication number: 20040045545
    Abstract: A fire surround for use with a substantially enclosed gas fire unit (34) comprises an outer fascia (12) securable, in use, to a chimney breast around a flue opening in the chimney breast, the outer fascia having an opening therein for receiving the gas fire unit (34), and an inner fascia (22) securable, in use, to the outer fascia (12) so as to entrap an out-turned flange (40) of the gas fire unit (34) between the inner and outer fascias. The inner fascia (22) comprises a pair of side columns (26) bridged by a top portion (28), and at least one of the side columns (26) is formed as a channel member for receiving a slide control for operating the gas fire unit (34). The invention also provides a method for the securing such a fire surround to a chimney breast so as to secure in place the gas fire unit (34).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventor: Christopher Simon Stonier
  • Publication number: 20040011348
    Abstract: A fireplace including a combustion chamber enclosure with an opening and an inner pane positioned to at least partially cover the opening of the combustion chamber. An outer pane is spaced apart from the inner pane, the outer pane and the inner pane creating a space through which air moves, the air cooling the outer pane. A blower may be provided to move the air through the space. The outer pane may be angled with respect to the inner pane to enhance air movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2002
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: Thomas J. Bachinski, Gary Lee Butler, Emadeddin Y. Tanbour, Thomas Alfred Early, Timothy Wayne Johnson, David Charles Lyons, Robb Edward Bennett
  • Publication number: 20030192531
    Abstract: A proximity warning system for a fireplace including a monitor module and an alarm module. The monitor module is configured to sense when an object, such as a person, enters a defined zone proximate to the fireplace. The monitor module may use a variety of techniques to sense when an object enters the defined zone. For example, the monitor module may use capacitance or pulse infrared light to detect when an object enters the defined zone. The alarm module is coupled to the monitor module to generate an alarm when the monitor module senses that the object has entered the defined zone. The alarm may be audible or visual.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2002
    Publication date: October 16, 2003
    Inventors: Thomas J. Bachinski, David J. Oja
  • Publication number: 20030189142
    Abstract: An adjustable support structure for a fireplace including upper and lower bars extending in a longitudinal direction, the upper bar being positioned above the lower bar and including a surface upon which the fireplace can rest. First and second cross bars are also included, each with upper and lower ends, the upper end of the first cross bar being coupled to the upper bar and the lower end of the second cross bar being coupled to the lower bar. The lower end of the first cross bar is moveably coupled to the lower bar and the upper end of the second cross bar is moveably coupled to the upper bar such that the upper bar may be adjusted upwards in a plane with respect to the lower bar to a desired height.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2002
    Publication date: October 9, 2003
    Inventors: Jack Jason Wells, Matthew Carter Wicks, Daniel Lee Holt
  • Patent number: 6588419
    Abstract: A fireplace appliance for warming room air without line electrical connection has a high efficiency thermoelectric generator having a heat-rejecting surface connected to a heat sink. The generator has a heat-receiving surface facing the site where a fireplace flame is to be located. In one embodiment the generator provides power to operate a fan that forces air through an air duct. The air duct has an inlet port receiving a flow of room air, and an outlet port. The heat sink is placed in the air duct where airflow generated by the fan moves across and cools the heat sink. The air heated by the heat sink flows to the room through the outlet port. One suitable material for the thermoelectric generator is a Bi—Te semiconductor. A number of options are shown that allow fan operation to commence properly while the appliance begins a cold start.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: James G. Buezis, Stephen J. Kemp
  • Publication number: 20030089365
    Abstract: A fireplace for concurrent use inside and outside of a structure includes a combustion chamber enclosure defining a combustion chamber, an inside opening, and an outside opening, wherein the combustion chamber is viewable from the inside of the structure through the inside opening and from the outside of the structure through the outside opening. The fireplace also includes a combustion air plenum system coupled to the combustion chamber enclosure to supply fresh air from the outside to the combustion chamber and an exhaust opening defined by the combustion chamber enclosure for exhausting exhaust air from the combustion chamber to the outside of the structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2001
    Publication date: May 15, 2003
    Inventors: Jane Catherine Fier, David Charles Lyons, Robb Edward Bennett
  • Publication number: 20030084897
    Abstract: A fireplace including a fire box having a means for producing flames, a trough positioned in front of or around the fire box, and a hood positioned above the fire box and extending out from the fireplace beyond a front opening in the fire box. Positioned in the trough is a plumbing assembly having a pump and piping for transporting water from the trough upward and through an opening in the hood positioned above the fire box. The hood extends outward beyond the fire box such that water will fall freely in front of the fire box containing the flames and into the trough. One or more nozzles may be connected to the piping near one or more openings in the hood to adjust the trajectory of the water as it falls from the hood.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: David P. Coughlin
  • Patent number: 6543440
    Abstract: A fireplace assembly comprises a smoke chamber and a firebox in fluid communication with the smoke chamber. A masonry casing partially surrounds the firebox, the casing having a pair of spaced-apart side walls which together define an opening to the firebox. In one aspect of the invention, a lintel supports at least one chimney breast block across the opening, the lintel extending between the side walls and being supported by the side walls. In another aspect of the invention, a damper is mounted above the smoke chamber. In another aspect of the invention, the firebox is comprised of a plurality of firebrick, a metal firebox frame for guiding installation of the firebrick, and insulation between the firebox frame and the firebrick. In yet another aspect of the invention, insulation surrounds the back and sidewalls of the firebox and smoke chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Assignee: Firespaces, Inc.
    Inventor: Walter Moberg
  • Publication number: 20030039932
    Abstract: A synthetic ember comprising refractory ceramic wool coated with about 0.10 wt. % to about 5.0 wt. % of an oxidation catalyst of Pt, Pd, Rh, Co, Mn and mixtures thereof for use in small pieces as embers in a gas-fired log set or fireplace. The refractory ceramic wool preferably has a surface area of from 20 to 200 square meters per gram and a density of 0.01 to 0.05 grams per cubic centimeter and the catalytic embers are less than one inch square. The synthetic embers increase heat recoverable at a given BTU from a flame, with reduced nitrogen oxides, hydrocarbons and CO emissions and improved aesthetics.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2002
    Publication date: February 27, 2003
    Applicant: ADVANCED CATALYST SYSTEMS, LLC
    Inventors: Larry E. Campbell, Tracy D. Staller, Douglas Campbell
  • Publication number: 20030029442
    Abstract: An outdoor fireplace including a combustion chamber that has a top portion and an ash pan. The top portion and said ash pan are rigidly connected by a plurality of substantially vertical supports. The outdoor fireplace further includes a base, the base providing an upper portion and a support structure. The upper portion substantially spans the area spanned by the ash pan and is connected to the ash pan such that an integral airway is formed between the ash pan and the upper portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2001
    Publication date: February 13, 2003
    Inventors: Mark E. Davis, Eric Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20030019490
    Abstract: A lightweight prefabricated masonry/steel kiva-style fireplace. The firebox is cast in three or more modular sections. The entire inner combustion chamber is lined with split refractory firebrick and an outer shell is lightweight vermiculite concrete. The center firebox section has a semi-circular concave interior and the tubular steel and mesh exterior kiva fireplace stuccoed and plastered frame facade has a semi-circular convex exterior configuration with the appearance of a sculpted adobe fireplace. The firebox damper/anchor plate provides a transition from the masonry firebox to a double-walled chimney system. The firebox can be placed in a room comer or in a chase on a flat wall. It can also be installed over wood floors, in old or new construction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Inventor: Stuart P. Buffington
  • Publication number: 20030005921
    Abstract: This invention is a metal tray that is removed quickly and easily from the fireplace after burning firewood. It must be manually transported to a disposal receptacle for dumping ash then returned to the fireplace thus greatly eliminating messy cleanup.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2002
    Publication date: January 9, 2003
    Inventor: William Gregory Kendrick
  • Publication number: 20020166554
    Abstract: A simulated electric glowing embers system disposed within a fireplace is provided. One embodiment discloses, a fireplace comprising an enclosure defining a chamber, a support structure disposed within the chamber, a plurality of translucent artificial embers disposed upon a top surface of the support structure, and a light source positioned to pass light through at least a portion of the support structure to illuminate the translucent artificial embers. Another embodiment discloses, an apparatus for electrically simulating glowing embers within a fireplace comprising an ember support bed, a plurality of translucent artificial embers individually arrangeable upon a top surface of the ember support bed, and a light source positioned to pass light through at least a portion of the ember support bed to illuminate the loose translucent artificial embers. A method for electrically simulating glowing embers within a fireplace is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2001
    Publication date: November 14, 2002
    Inventor: Richard Donald Berg
  • Publication number: 20020096171
    Abstract: A prefabricated fireplace assembly and method of manufacturing same are disclosed. The assembly is configured for direct mounting to the framework of a rough opening of a building in which it is to be installed. A prefabricated fireplace box having a combustion chamber for either wood or gas fireplaces, is connected to and carried by a surrounding framework of building materials, to provide a zero clearance fireplace module assembly. The framework forms a permanent part of the fireplace assembly and acts as a shipping container, protecting the fireplace box until the assembly is installed. After installation, the framework becomes an integral part of the wall or structure to which the assembly is mounted. External siding of the building and interior room sheetrock can be directly secured to the assembly framework, eliminating the need for additional contractor framing around the fireplace assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2002
    Publication date: July 25, 2002
    Applicant: HON Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: David C. Lyons, Dominique R. Pitman, Ted Schroeder
  • Patent number: 6409500
    Abstract: A process and product for producing an attractive soot-free fire from a specially formed gas pipe embedded in a bed of broken, specially-formulated, tempered glass pieces is provided. The broken glass pieces are preferably formed from a specifically-formulated, tempered glass which, after formation, is broken and then sifted and washed so as to remove any slivers or debris. The gas pipe is preferably formed with two rows of equally spaced openings offset with respect to each other and spaced approximately 90° apart to burn gas in a cleaner and hotter manner. A number of gas pipes may be used and formed in any desired configuration to add to the attractiveness of the soot-free fire produced thereby.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Inventor: Mark T. Georgantas
  • Patent number: 6386194
    Abstract: The invention relates to a masonry fireplace and a masonry fireplace log box fitted with a door (interior or exterior) or doors (both interior and exterior) that permits firewood to be loaded into the log box without need to carry wood through the interior of the home. Many masonry fireplaces that are constructed in new homes include a built-in log box (or firewood box) as part of the masonry structure. The log box consists of a recessed chamber with sufficient depth to allow a supply of firewood to be stored convenient to the fireplace without need to stack the wood on the hearth or the floor near the fireplace (or stove insert). With the present invention, the firewood is stocked into the log box from the exterior of the home and removed as needed from the interior opening of the log box. In the case of the single interior or exterior door, the door is insulated for energy efficiency and fitted with a locking mechanism to prevent entry by an intruder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Inventor: Roger C. Christman
  • Patent number: 6374822
    Abstract: A prefabricated fireplace assembly and method of manufacturing same are disclosed. The assembly is configured for direct mounting to the framework of a rough opening of a building in which it is to be installed. A prefabricated fireplace box having a combustion chamber for either wood or gas fireplaces, is connected to and carried by a surrounding framework of building materials, to provide a zero clearance fireplace module assembly. The framework forms a permanent part of the fireplace assembly and acts as a shipping container, protecting the fireplace box until the assembly is installed. After installation, the framework becomes an integral part of the wall or structure to which the assembly is mounted. External siding of the building and interior room sheetrock can be directly secured to the assembly framework, eliminating the need for additional contractor framing around the fireplace assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Assignee: Hon Technology Inc.
    Inventors: David C. Lyons, Dominique R. Pitman, Alfredo Schroeder
  • Patent number: 6354288
    Abstract: A portable fireplace having an inner housing defined by an inner housing wall and forming a flame pit, an outer housing having an outer housing wall, the outer housing and the inner housing being interconnected to one another, the outer housing being in surrounding relationship to the inner housing, at least the majority of the walls of the inner and outer housings being spaced from one another to provide an insulation space and a support disposed in the flame pit for supporting a flame presentation substance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Inventor: Timothy W. McDonald
  • Publication number: 20010050078
    Abstract: A fireplace assembly comprises a smoke chamber and a firebox in fluid communication with the smoke chamber. A masonry casing partially surrounds the firebox, the casing having a pair of spaced-apart side walls which together define an opening to the firebox. In one aspect of the invention, a lintel supports at least one chimney breast block across the opening, the lintel extending between the side walls and being supported by the side walls. In another aspect of the invention, a damper is mounted above the smoke chamber. In another aspect of the invention, the firebox is comprised of a plurality of firebrick, a metal firebox frame for guiding installation of the firebrick, and insulation between the firebox frame and the firebrick. In yet another aspect of the invention, insulation surrounds the back and sidewalls of the firebox and smoke chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: Walter Moberg
  • Patent number: 6314191
    Abstract: An accessory for gas log fireplaces that includes a crackling sound generating mechanism for simulating the sounds of a log fire and a scent dispensing mechanism for simulating the slight smoke scent of a log fire. The fireplace accessory includes an infrared heat sensor in controlling connection with the sound generating mechanism and the scent dispensing mechanism such that when a fire is burning in the fireplace, the sound and scent generating mechanisms are in operation. The fireplace accessory also includes a parabolic sound reflector that is positioned within the fireplace. In use, the crackling fire sound is generated outside the fireplace and directed toward the parabolic sound reflector. The parabolic sound reflector reflects the crackling fire sound out of the fireplace such that the crackling fire sound appears to originate from within the fireplace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Inventor: Mignon J. Smith
  • Patent number: 6298844
    Abstract: The herein taught invention generally relates to domestic fireplaces particularly of the wood burning type and a method of, and apparatus for sealing such fireplaces to prevent the loss of conditioned air (heated and/or cooled) from the living quarters through such fireplaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Inventor: Sharon B. Skinkiss
  • Patent number: 6286502
    Abstract: A fireplace assembly comprises a smoke chamber and a firebox in fluid communication with the smoke chamber. A masonry casing partially surrounds the firebox, the casing having a pair of spaced-apart side walls which together define an opening to the firebox. In one aspect of the invention, a lintel supports at least one chimney breast block across the opening, the lintel extending between the side walls and being supported by the side walls. In another aspect of the invention, a damper is mounted above the smoke chamber. In another aspect of the invention, the firebox is comprised of a plurality of firebrick, a metal firebox frame for guiding installation of the firebrick, and insulation between the firebox frame and the firebrick. In yet another aspect of the invention, insulation surrounds the back and sidewalls of the firebox and smoke chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Inventor: Walter Moberg
  • Patent number: 6237587
    Abstract: Pollutants in the exhaust from wood burning in a fireplace are removed by positioning reticulated foam between the smoke chamber and the flue. The reticulated foam is a three dimensional latticework of interconnected ligaments forming a porous, open-celled structure with a large internal surface area. The internal surfaces are coated with a catalytic material which converts pollutants in the exhaust to harmless compounds. Heat from the exhaust, when the fire is burning, maintains the catalyst at a temperature for efficient conversion operation. Thermostatically controlled heaters are embedded in the foam, or thermostatically controlled electrical current is applied directly to the catalyst, to raise the catalyst temperature when the fire is growing or smoldering, periods during which the exhaust temperature is insufficient for good conversion operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: Temeku Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Ralph C. Sparling, Lance C. Grace, Lincoln D. Busselle
  • Patent number: 6237588
    Abstract: A rust proof indoor-outdoor convertible fireplace is provided with an open side having access into the combustion chamber box. The combustion chamber box is provided with an inclined bottom panel to drain water from rain and snow products from said combustion box. Support structures are provided on or above said inclined bottom panel for supporting a ceramic floor in a horizontal plane juxtaposed and above said inclined bottom panel. The inclined bottom panel is provided with a hole or aperture and forms the top panel of a water tight box that is used to house a gas control valve and electrical controls when the outdoor fireplace is converted from wood burning to a gas burning fireplace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Assignee: Heat-N-Glo Fireplace Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Eric Paul Hawkinson
  • Patent number: 6220240
    Abstract: An outdoor fireplace has an extendible handle that is extendible between two positions so that the fireplace may be easily moved. The handle includes first and second handle members that telescopingly engage each other and which are maintained at an angle with respect to the ground by way of their attachment to the firebowl member of the fireplace. In one position, the handle members are maintained in a collapsed position such that the handle does not extend too far from the firebowl member and serve as an impediment to movement around the fireplace. In the other, extended position, the handle members are extend within each other and the gripping portion of the handle is moved significantly away from the firebowl so that the fireplace may be easily moved without the user being close to the fireplace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Assignee: Fleming Sales Company
    Inventors: Jeffrey Grady, John Grady, Dave Henke, Kent Bach
  • Patent number: 6141495
    Abstract: A flue heater is detachably secured to the flue of a chimney. The flue heater uses an electrical power source to create heat and direct the heated air into the lower portion of a flue. The device can be attached to the flue before igniting a fire and removed immediately prior to lighting a fire. The device can be used with any pre-existing chimney without the need for any large expense in retrofitting a permanent flue heater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Inventor: Asher Roth
  • Patent number: 6109257
    Abstract: The present invention encompasses a modular chimney having a fireplace, a smoke chamber, and a plurality of modular blocks, forming at least one stack of blocks, the stack of modular blocks defining a chimney passage that is in fluid communication with the smoke chamber for the passage of combustion products. Alternatively, in a second embodiment, the modular chimney may also include a plurality of angled blocks, forming at least one angled stack of angled blocks, the angled stack of angled blocks defining an angled chimney passage that is in fluid communication with the smoke chamber and the chimney passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Inventors: Deborah L. Hodge, James Roe Hodge, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6053165
    Abstract: A low cost prefabricated fireplace is provided with an open-ended fireplace box which requires no outer sheet metal shroud or housing as employed in the prior art sheet metal fireplaces. The novel fireplace box has at least five walls which consist substantially of insulating reinforced ceramic fiber (RCF) material and a binder. A modular burner system is removably mounted on the bottom wall of the fireplace box and a floor panel is mounted on the modular burner system forming an air chamber below the floor panel in the fireplace box. A decorative surround trim is attached to the open end of the fireplace box which serves to support fixed or operable glass doors. A log set which may include a log burner is mounted above the floor panel which supports a decorative log set. Apertures are made in the top sides or of the fireplace box to accommodate an air supply and/or an exhaust stack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Assignee: Heat-N-Glo Fireplace Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary Lee Butler, David Charles Lyons, Ronald John Shimek, Robb Edward Bennett
  • Patent number: 6026805
    Abstract: A vent-free, gas fireplace for providing heat, light, and an aesthetic view includes an outer shell arranged with a top panel, front panel, rear panel, and left and right side panels and a combustion chamber positioned within the outer shell so as to define a plurality of air chambers. The combustion chamber is arranged with a primary combustion portion for initial combustion of the gas which is supplied to the fireplace and a secondary combustion portion which includes a catalytic converter and which is designed to bum the emissions from the primary combustion portion. The plurality of air chambers defined between the outer shell and combustion chamber include a rear chamber and a top chamber and positioned within the top chamber is a heat shield which defines an interior volume. The interior volume of the heat shield is in flow communication with the rear chamber so as to direct air through the heat shield and out into the room.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Assignee: Monessen Hearth Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Tracy J. Burch, Daniel E. Newman, Soong Jack Chow
  • Patent number: 6024085
    Abstract: The present invention encompasses a modular fireplace having a first side wall, a second side wall, and a back wall that is contiguous with the first side wall and the second side wall and defines an interior open-faced firebox region having a substantially "U" shape in top plan view. The first side wall is constructed from a plurality of sequentially stacked modular first side blocks and the second side wall is formed from a plurality of sequentially stacked modular second side blocks. The back wall has a first modular corner block, a second modular corner block, and at least one substantially vertical spacer block that are joined so that the first corner block and the second corner block are contiguous with the spacer block. To aid in the efficient drafting of the fireplace, each of the spacer blocks may have a spacer block air chamber extending therein from an open upper end on the spacer block top end to a closed lower end proximate the spacer block bottom end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2000
    Inventors: Deborah L. Hodge, James Roe Hodge, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6012448
    Abstract: A fireplace downdraft regulator having a first end and a second end, such regulator extending across the top of a fireplace opening, such regulator having an aerodynamic draft header portion having a front face and a height and length, such draft header portion extending downwardly and rearwardly from the fireplace top at approximately 45 degrees to a vertical to form a corner angle and then extending upwards at approximately 90 degrees to the aerodynamic draft header portion to form a deflector portion with the deflector portion angled upwards into the chimney such that the inside portion of the regulator deflects downdrafts back upwards within the chimney and the aerodynamic draft header portion aids in drawing air from the room, which air travels down its front face and around the corner angle and back up the outside face of the deflector portion to help increase the updraft of air within the chimney.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Inventor: John W. Arsenault
  • Patent number: 5996575
    Abstract: A low cost prefabricated fireplace is provided with an open-ended fireplace box which requires no outer sheet metal shroud or housing as employed in the prior art sheet metal fireplaces. The novel fireplace box has at least five walls which consist substantially of insulating reinforced ceramic fiber (RCF) material and a binder. A modular burner system is removably mounted on the bottom wall of the fireplace box and a floor panel is mounted on the modular burner system forming an air chamber below the floor panel in the fireplace box. A decorative surround trim is attached to the open end of the fireplace box which serves to support fixed or operable glass doors. A log set which may include a log burner is mounted above the floor panel which supports a decorative log set. Apertures are made in the sides or top of the fireplace box to accommodate an air supply and/or an exhaust stack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: Heat-N-Glo Fireplace Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald John Shimek, Robb Edward Bennett, David Charles Lyons, Daniel Curtis Shimek, Timothy Wayne Johnson
  • Patent number: 5988159
    Abstract: A gas-fired artificial logs and coals-burner assembly is provided for fireplace use in cooperation with decorative gas logs, and artificial coals and embers decorative items by placement forward of the gas logs in the fireplace arrangement, a secondary elongated coals- and embers-burner tube apparatus. The assembly provides gas-fired artificial logs, coals- and embers-burner apparatus for fireplaces wherein gas flow through primary burner tube is the source of gas flow to a secondary coals- and embers-burner tube positioned forward and below the primary burner tube with multiple discharge ports in the secondary tube directed away from the front of the fireplace, thus enhancing the natural burn in cooperation of the fireplace draft as well as the aesthetic beauty of the imitation burning logs, coals and embers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Inventor: Golden Blount
  • Patent number: 5983885
    Abstract: A natural draft, gravity feed pellet stove. The body of the stove is formed by a vertical section of large diameter pipe, with an air intake pipe extending from the back of the stove to below a combustion grate. Pellet fuel is discharged onto the grate through a slot at the bottom of a hopper, and the grate is sloped so that the pellets roll away from the slot and over the grate as they are combusted. The combustion gasses flow into two exhaust pipes, each having a diameter similar to that of the intake pipe so as to establish a 2:1 exhaust/intake flow ratio. Cross-drilled reburner tubes are installed across the intake ends of the exhaust pipes to provide additional air for complete combustion. The bottom plates of the storage hopper are free from attachment along their lower edges, so that these expand and contract on a continuous basis with changes in the temperature of the stove; this causes cyclical distortion of the plates which shifts the fuel downwardly towards the discharge opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventor: Michael A. Jarvi
  • Patent number: 5979437
    Abstract: Air control apparatus for a fireplace prevents or inhibits the buildup of soot and dirt on the inside surface of the glass doors of the fireplace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Inventor: H. Alfred Eberhardt
  • Patent number: 5967769
    Abstract: A portable, contained, fueled, ready-to-use campfire assembly having a fire resistant container with an upwardly facing mouth. The container is filled with a mixture of mineral spirits, paraffin wax and hardwood chips. No additional fuel, mixing, pouring, or lighting is required and a long lasting fire is provided that resists moderate winds, is readily extinguished and does not give out dangerous sparks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Assignee: Campfire, Inc.
    Inventor: William Thompson
  • Patent number: 5934268
    Abstract: A catalytic insert for an existing fireplace structure includes a frame for carrying a catalyst member. The frame is disposed in the fireplace structure at a vertically elevated position such that an upper chamber is formed in the structure, and such that at least a portion of the combustion products generated in the fireplace flow into the chamber through the catalyst member and exit the chamber into the room in which the fireplace structure is located. A support member extends from the frame to the fireplace structure bottom wall. The support member provides the main source of support of the frame within the fireplace structure. The frame and support member are adapted to be positionable in an existing fireplace structure to allow catalytic reaction of combustion products generated in the fireplace structure. The frame of the insert can also be adjustable to conform to multiple configurations of the fireplace structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Assignee: Martin Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Theodore J. Onocki