With Air Pump Patents (Class 126/521)
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Patent number: 10495314Abstract: A fireplace system can comprise a first safety barrier and a second safety barrier disposed across a firebox opening and defining an interbarrier space. A fireplace system can also comprise a heat exchanger in fluid communication with the interbarrier space. The interbarrier space and heat exchanger may further be in fluid communication with ambient air. Operation of the fireplace system may produce natural convection through the interbarrier space, resulting in cooling of the safety barrier and the fireplace system.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2016Date of Patent: December 3, 2019Assignee: FPI Fireplace Products International Ltd.Inventors: Robert Little, Julian Mills
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Patent number: 9835337Abstract: A gas fireplace includes a furnace, a burner, and an air guiding device, wherein the air guiding device divides an inside of the furnace into a first chamber and a second chamber; the burner is provided in the second chamber; an air outlet of the furnace communicates with the first chamber; the air guiding device has a passageway communicating the first chamber and the second chamber, wherein a width of the passageway gradually narrows from the second chamber to the first chamber. Whereby, the hot air generated while the burner is burning gas enters the first chamber from the second chamber through the air guiding device, and then can be smoothly exhausted to outside.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2015Date of Patent: December 5, 2017Assignee: BAHUTONG ENTERPRISE LIMITED COMPANYInventors: Yen-Jen Yeh, Kuan-Chou Lin, Wei-Long Chen
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Patent number: 9651264Abstract: A brick assembly may include a molded brick having a planar surface and at least one magnetic attachment for magnetically securing the brick assembly to a ferromagnetic surface. A mold assembly for manufacturing a brick assembly may include a mold chamber and at least one magnetic attachment seat or a hinged metal door. A method for manufacturing a brick assembly may include using a mold assembly, a mold material, and at least one magnetic attachment.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2009Date of Patent: May 16, 2017Assignee: Innovative Hearth Products, LLCInventors: Martin D. Husted, Mark Klein
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Publication number: 20150144124Abstract: The present invention is directed toward a system for stoking and arranging materials in a fire. An air flow generator is configured to flow air down a passage in a hollow rod that is configured to prod and rearrange the combustible matter of a burning fire. The hollow rod is durable enough to poke and reposition the combustible materials in a fire. While this poking and repositioning is occurring, air sent from the air flow generator is conducted at an outlet of the hollow rod, thereby stoking the flame burning the combustible matter while the combustible matter is also being poked and prodded at. The hollow rod can be configured to be a telescoping hollow rod that is permitted to extend and collapse on itself for more convenient storage and transport options.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 22, 2013Publication date: May 28, 2015Inventor: James Olson
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Publication number: 20150107579Abstract: The invention relates to a device for controlling the supply of combustion air to a combustion chamber for solid fuel, the device including a housing having a chamber and having a first end and a second end, a piston arrangement being movable arranged inside the chamber between a first position and a second position, the piston arrangement including a gasket arrangement, an adjustable valve arrangement for providing a fluid communication between the chamber and the exterior of the chamber and being configured for providing a flow of a gas to the chamber, and an elastic force inducing arrangement. The piston arrangement is configured for being moved towards the first end of the housing to the first position, thereby forcing gas inside the chamber out of the chamber through an outlet, and the elastic force inducing arrangement is connected to the piston arrangement and is configured for forcing the piston arrangement from the first position towards the second position.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 27, 2014Publication date: April 23, 2015Inventor: Christian SKOVBO
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Patent number: 8920161Abstract: An apparatus is provided for containing a heat source (36) in a chamber (16) having a chimney-section (22). The apparatus has a gas inlet opening (24, 26, 30) and a gas outlet opening (32) formed in the chimney-section (22). The gas inlet opening (24, 26, 30) and the heat source are located in a lower area (12, 20?) of the chamber (16) and the gas outlet opening (32) is located in an upper region (14) of the chamber (16) so that, when a heat source is placed in the chamber (16), an ascending gas flow may be generated in the chamber (16). Inflowing gas into the chamber flows therethrough into the lower area (12, 20?) of the chamber (16) and then is drawn upwardly by a draw of the ascending gas flow and then though the gas outlet opening (32). The apparatus includes a subassembly (27). The chimney-section (22) is attached to the subassembly (27) so that lateral tilting of the chimney-section (22) causes motion of the subassembly (27) relative to the wick (307).Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2012Date of Patent: December 30, 2014Inventors: John Brent Moetteli, Robin Saegewitz
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Patent number: 8776777Abstract: A gas heater includes a support unit, a burner unit, a venting unit and a frame guider. The burner unit includes an ignition unit, a hollow and transparent radiant unit defining a cavity in which the flame guider is positioned, a heat reflector and a burner top cover. The radiant unit comprises a bottom unit with inlet air passages through which an air flow into the radiant unit cavity is created. Then, the frame guider, which has a preset structure such as a spiral and a cone structure and a plurality of guider through-holes, is arranged for guiding and generating a flame pattern which is visible through the radiant unit. The venting unit, which is connected to the radiant unit in an air-tight manner, then provides an air exit. Accordingly, energy utilization is increased and visible flame pattern assemble to real flame can be seen.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2011Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Inventors: Weidong Jin, Weiqun Jin
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Patent number: 8602020Abstract: 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. The improved fire grate may be horizontally and vertically adjusted to fit within different sized fireplace combustion chambers.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2010Date of Patent: December 10, 2013Assignee: Earth's Flame, Inc.Inventor: Steve Marple
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Patent number: 8567387Abstract: An unvented gas fireplace in which air flow through a closed combustion chamber is controlled by means of a restriction in the air flow path through an outer plenum chamber surrounding the combustion chamber. The restriction in the air flow path through the plenum causes a pressure differential between the plenum and combustion chamber, forcing air from the plenum into the combustion chamber, where it is combusted and mixed with the cool air that has passed the restriction in the plenum, before the air mixture is exhausted into the surrounding room, thereby heating the room.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2011Date of Patent: October 29, 2013Assignee: Canadian Heating Products Inc.Inventor: Dan Binzer
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Patent number: 8235707Abstract: The present invention relates to a control method of preventing backflow of exhaust gas into combustion chambers of boilers or water heaters that are not in operation for a multiboiler comprising a plurality of boilers or water heaters connected in line, each of which including a wind pressure sensor measuring wind pressure of air flowing into a combustion chamber and a controller controlling a fan supplying air into the combustion chamber on the basis of the wind pressure measured by the wind pressure sensor. The control method includes measuring wind pressures using the wind pressure sensors in the operating boilers and calculating an average wind pressure, using any controller as a master controller to determine a control amount of wind of the fans of non-operational boilers based on the average wind pressure, and operating the fans of the non-operational boilers on the basis of the control amount of wind.Type: GrantFiled: December 26, 2008Date of Patent: August 7, 2012Assignee: Kyungdong Networks Co., Ltd.Inventor: Si-Hwan Kim
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Publication number: 20120192855Abstract: 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.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 10, 2012Publication date: August 2, 2012Inventor: Steve Marple
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Publication number: 20120192854Abstract: An unvented gas fireplace in which air flow through a closed combustion chamber is controlled by means of a restriction in the air flow path through an outer plenum chamber surrounding the combustion chamber. The restriction in the air flow path through the plenum causes a pressure differential between the plenum and combustion chamber, forcing air from the plenum into the combustion chamber, where it is combusted and mixed with the cool air that has passed the restriction in the plenum, before the air mixture is exhausted into the surrounding room, thereby heating the room.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 1, 2011Publication date: August 2, 2012Inventor: Dan Binzer
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Publication number: 20110073101Abstract: Provided are exemplary embodiments, which may include a heating system controller, which may be capable of controlling a heating system to reduce inefficiencies, and/or allow the heating system to operate in a relatively optimum manner.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 1, 2010Publication date: March 31, 2011Applicant: FPI FIREPLACE PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL, LTD.Inventors: George H.K. Lau, Robert A. Little, Gordon Arthur Lloyd Coutts, Davinder Gopal Lal, Chi Ming Gavin Tham
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Publication number: 20110005509Abstract: 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. The improved fire grate may be horizontally and vertically adjusted to fit within different sized fireplace combustion chambers.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 17, 2009Publication date: January 13, 2011Inventor: Steve Marple
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Publication number: 20110005510Abstract: 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.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 13, 2009Publication date: January 13, 2011Inventor: Steve Marple
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Patent number: 7854223Abstract: A heat recovery apparatus for an indoor fireplace includes a plenum chamber of low profile box-like construction having a front extremity with a portion that permits forced entry of air and a horizontally spaced portion that permits emergence of heated air. A divider wall centered within the chamber between the entry and emergence portions produces a passageway that controls the flow of air within the chamber.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2008Date of Patent: December 21, 2010Inventor: Julian A. Latimer, III
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Patent number: 7806345Abstract: In an in-wall heater, in which control equipment 11, 12 is disposed in a side space 10 on one lateral side of a combustion housing 2 within an outer case 1 and an exhaust duct 15 is disposed in a side space 13 on the other lateral side of the combustion housing 2, the cooling performance of each of the side spaces is increased and noise due to a sucked-in sound of room air can be reduced. In a side plate portion of the outer case 1 on both lateral sides, an air intake opening 7, which is vertically long, is provided in a position in a front side portion exposed to a front of a room wall. Each side space 10, 13 within the outer case 1 is formed in a ventilation flue on the suction side where the room air from each of the air intake openings 7 is conducted into the warm air fan 9.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2005Date of Patent: October 5, 2010Assignees: Rinnai Corporation, Rinnai New Zealand Ltd.Inventors: Ikuo Tsunekawa, Minoru Oguri, Satoshi Kaneiwa, Brian Smith, Gregory Brinsden
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Publication number: 20090215375Abstract: Fan assemblies, mechanical draft systems and methods are provided. In this regard, a representative mechanical draft system for use with multiple appliances includes: a chimney operative to direct combustion products from multiple appliances; a chimney fan operative to draw combustion products from the chimney; and a controller operative to adjust an operating speed of the chimney fan such that, responsive to a change in pressure in the chimney, the controller adjusts the operating speed of the chimney fan to maintain a desired pressure in the chimney.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 4, 2009Publication date: August 27, 2009Applicant: GREENVEXInventor: Steen Hagensen
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Patent number: 7422011Abstract: A heating appliance includes an outer enclosure including a transparent front panel, a combustion chamber enclosure, and a variable speed blower. The combustion chamber enclosure is positioned within the outer enclosure and defines a combustion chamber wherein radiant heat is generated. The combustion chamber enclosure also includes a transparent front panel. The blower is configured to generate an adjustable airflow between the outer enclosure front panel and the combustion chamber enclosure front panel and to exhaust the airflow to a remote location. The airflow absorbs at least some of the radiant heat and varying a speed of the blower controls an amount of radiant heat transferred from the combustion chamber to a living space in which the heating appliance is exposed.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2005Date of Patent: September 9, 2008Assignee: HNI Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Thomas J. Bachinski, Gary Lee Butler, Robert S. Waddell, Dennis R. Maiello, Steven G. Smith, Paul J. Gross
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Publication number: 20080105252Abstract: An outdoor firepit comprises a vessel adapted to contain a combustible material. A plurality of conduits are within the vessel and are positioned to be in thermal communication with the combustible material. An air source forces air through the plurality of conduits and into an area surrounding the firepit. An apparatus for heating an outdoor area comprises a vessel adapted to contain a combustible material having an inner bowl and an outer bowl and a space therebetween. A plurality of conduits are within the vessel adjacent the inner bowl and are positioned to be in thermal communication with the combustible material. An air source forces air through the plurality of conduits and into the outdoor area surrounding the vessel.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 2, 2006Publication date: May 8, 2008Inventors: Rodney Barbour, Anthony Busin, Michael Giebel, Wayne Neal
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Patent number: 7175424Abstract: The present invention is an indoor/outdoor patio heater which includes a base portion housing a gas source, a gas burner, gas valve, a fan under the burner to create twisting flame patterns and a liquid pump, a pair of concentric see-through tubular portions disposed vertically above said base portion and a top heat deflector portion, with the burner flame enclosed by the inner tubular portion and liquid flowing through the channel formed between the inner and outer tubular portions to create the appearance of a twisting flame enclosed within a waterfall. The invention can be utilized with its aesthetic flame features and its aesthetic water features together, or one or the other.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2004Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Inventors: Toby Frink, John A. MacPherson
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Patent number: 7168427Abstract: An air filtration and sterilization system for removing airborne contaminants from air circulated through an air plenum system of a fireplace. Air filtration systems may include particulate, chemical, and ion filtration systems to filter the air. Air sterilization may include ultraviolet, ozone, germicidal coating, and channeled system of ducts systems to sterilize the air. Systems may be used individually or in combination. In addition, optional components, including a warning sensor for indicating when to replace a filter, an automatic initiation sensor for activating and stopping filtration and sterilization, and an air enhancement system for introducing desirable materials into the air, may be provided.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2004Date of Patent: January 30, 2007Assignee: HNI Technologies Inc.Inventors: Thomas J. Bachinski, Gary Lee Butler
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Publication number: 20040261780Abstract: The present invention is an indoor/outdoor patio heater which includes a base portion housing a gas source, a gas burner, gas valve, a fan under the burner to create twisting flame patterns and a liquid pump, a pair of concentric see-through tubular portions disposed vertically above said base portion and a top heat deflector portion, with the burner flame enclosed by the inner tubular portion and liquid flowing through the channel formed between the inner and outer tubular portions to create the appearance of a twisting flame enclosed within a waterfall. The invention can be utilized with its aesthetic flame features and its aesthetic water features together, or one or the other.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 22, 2004Publication date: December 30, 2004Inventors: Toby Frink, John MacPherson
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Patent number: 6766798Abstract: A supplemental air directing frame for a fireplace (10) is provided where frame (10) includes an upper channel (12), a pair of sidewalls (14) and a pair of front panels (16). Upper channel (12) has an air flow opening formed therethrough and air is directed through the air flow opening into nozzle (32), where it is directed towards combustible material (48) within fireplace (24). A variably controlled fan (26) draws exterior air into upper channel (12). The fan (26) is controlled by a rheostat (28) so that a user may variably control the rate of air directed into combustion chamber (24), thus controlling the rate of combustion of the combustible material (48).Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2002Date of Patent: July 27, 2004Inventors: Schuyler Herres, Jac E. Knust
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Patent number: 6736133Abstract: An air filtration and sterilization system for removing airborne contaminants from air circulated through an air plenum system of a fireplace. Air filtration systems may include particulate, chemical, and ion filtration systems to filter the air. Air sterilization may include ultraviolet, ozone, germicidal coating, and channeled system of ducts systems to sterilize the air. Systems may be used individually or in combination. In addition, optional components, including a warning sensor for indicating when to replace a filter, an automatic initiation sensor for activating and stopping filtration and sterilization, and an air enhancement system for introducing desirable materials into the air, may be provided.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2002Date of Patent: May 18, 2004Assignee: HON Technology Inc.Inventors: Thomas J. Bachinski, Gary Lee Butler
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Publication number: 20030188736Abstract: An air filtration and sterilization system for removing airborne contaminants from air circulated through an air plenum system of a fireplace. Air filtration systems may include particulate, chemical, and ion filtration systems to filter the air. Air sterilization may include ultraviolet, ozone, germicidal coating, and channeled system of ducts systems to sterilize the air. Systems may be used individually or in combination. In addition, optional components, including a warning sensor for indicating when to replace a filter, an automatic initiation sensor for activating and stopping filtration and sterilization, and an air enhancement system for introducing desirable materials into the air, may be provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 9, 2002Publication date: October 9, 2003Inventors: Thomas J. Bachinski, Gary Lee Butler
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Publication number: 20030183220Abstract: A supplemental air directing frame for a fireplace (10) is provided where frame (10) includes an upper channel (12), a pair of sidewalls (14) and a pair of front panels (16). Upper channel (12) has an air flow opening formed therethrough and air is directed through the air flow opening into nozzle (32), where it is directed towards combustible material (48) within fireplace (24). A variably controlled fan (26) draws exterior air into upper channel (12). The fan (26) is controlled by a rheostat (28) so that a user may variably control the rate of air directed into combustion chamber (24), thus controlling the rate of combustion of the combustible material (48).Type: ApplicationFiled: April 2, 2002Publication date: October 2, 2003Inventors: Schuyler Herres, Jac E. Knust
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Publication number: 20030041855Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: September 6, 2002Publication date: March 6, 2003Inventors: Jeffrey T. Grady, David Henke, Kent Bach
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Patent number: 6145502Abstract: A novel dual mode of operation gas fireplace of the type having a combustion chamber box and a heat exchanger is provided with a burner in the bottom of the combustion chamber box which creates exhaust gasses to be passed out of the combustion chamber box and into or through the heat exchanger portion of the fireplace mounted on top of or back of the combustion chamber box. The hot exhaust gasses leaving the combustion chamber box may be directed into an exhaust stack or diverted directly into the room to be heated by a blower motor which diverts hot exhaust gas products from the heat exchanger directly into a room area to be heated in a ventless mode of operation. When the blower motor which diverts the exhaust gasses into the room is deactivated, the novel fireplace may be operated in a vented mode of operation.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 1999Date of Patent: November 14, 2000Assignee: Heat-N-Glo Fireplace Products, Inc.Inventors: David Charles Lyons, Robb Edward Bennett, Ronald John Shimek, Bradley Dean Determan
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Patent number: 6065467Abstract: A combination portable gas barbecue and portable simulation fireplace includes a cooking vessel having imitation fireplace logs and a gas burner mounted on a lift-out log grate. A window is mounted in the front of the cooking vessel to allow direct viewing of the imitation logs and flames and of the underside of the food being cooked. Air inlet and outlets cause convection currents to flow away from the viewing window and out side vents formed by gaps between an oversized hood and the cooking vessel. An air convection system is set up by providing an air inlet below the window and outlet air gaps between the hood and the cooking vessel. A deflector is provided over the viewing window to prevent grease drippings from soiling the window or falling into the air inlet. A removable heat exchanger heats up air by contact with the walls of the cooking vessel and directs the resulting warm air to the front of the cooking vessel.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 1999Date of Patent: May 23, 2000Inventor: Ed Martin
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Patent number: 5996575Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 17, 1998Date of Patent: December 7, 1999Assignee: Heat-N-Glo Fireplace Products, Inc.Inventors: Ronald John Shimek, Robb Edward Bennett, David Charles Lyons, Daniel Curtis Shimek, Timothy Wayne Johnson
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Patent number: 5983890Abstract: A fireplace adapted to heat multiple heating zones of a building, controlled by a control circuit which adjusts the heat input to the fireplace, airflow through the fireplace and ducting of the airflow to the various zones individually in response to a call for heat by thermostats in the zones. The fireplace may also be adapted to provide cooled or circulated air to the zones and may also serve to provide heating to the zones in the event of an electrical power outage. The fireplace is provided with a cabinet having ducts through which air is conveyed by use of a fan to a tube-type heat exchanger, the heat exchanger also in communication with the hot flue gases exiting the combustion chamber of the fireplace. The air heated by the heat exchanger is conveyed to a multitude of fireplace outlets, each of which is provided with a damper which regulates the airflow through the outlet to one of the zones to be heated, depending on whether that zone calls for heat through its thermostat.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 1998Date of Patent: November 16, 1999Assignee: Canadian Gas Research InstituteInventors: Martin Thomas, Sydney Richard Barkhouse, John Charles Kenzie Overall, Dick D. Gepilano, James Karl Georgieff, Heinz H. Rieger
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Patent number: 5979437Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 25, 1997Date of Patent: November 9, 1999Inventor: H. Alfred Eberhardt
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Patent number: 5915375Abstract: A direct vent gas fireplace has a combustion air duct extending down the back wall, between the housing back wall and the fireplace back wall. It is located laterally between two cooling air ducts that lead from the cool air zones at the bottom outer corners of the housing to a cooling air plenum inside the top of the housing. Inside the cooling air plenum and the cooling air ducts are a room air plenum and room air circulating space for the circulation of room air to be heated. This provides a compact construction with adequate wall cooling without the need for additional thermal insulation. The top of the unit is oriented at an angle less than 45.degree., preferably 23.2.degree. to horizontal so that the exhaust and vent pipes can be arranged in a top vent or a back vent arrangement without the pipes projecting beyond the back of the fireplace unit in the top vent arrangement.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 1997Date of Patent: June 29, 1999Assignee: R-Co Inc.Inventor: Russell E. Reyher
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Patent number: 5775408Abstract: An integrated combined heating and cooling unit comprises a known high efficiency gas fireplace unit stacked on top of a known high efficiency window type air conditioning unit. Novel vent adapters are connected to the rear of the units for connecting them to a source of outside combustion and cooling air to effect high efficiency operations. Novel controls comprise a fireplace relay and an air conditioning relay mounted inside of each of the units. The relays control the on-off operation of the respective units and are actuated by a thermostatic control preferably located remote from the combined units.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 1996Date of Patent: July 7, 1998Assignee: Heat-N-Glo Fireplace Products Inc.Inventors: Ronald John Shimek, Daniel Curtis Shimek
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Patent number: 5647340Abstract: A novel dual direct vented fireplace includes a combustion chamber having two permanent exhaust outlets including a horizontal exhaust outlet and a vertical exhaust outlet. A fireplace enclosure surrounds at least the top, bottom and back of said combustion chamber forming three hollow plenum walls around the combustion chamber. A fresh air duct in the top and back plenum walls connects to a combustion air passageway under the gas burner system. Two permanent air inlets in said fresh air duct include a horizontal air inlet and a vertical air inlet. A coaxial pipe is provided for connection to at least one of said exhaust outlets and one of said air inlets. The other of said exhaust outlets and air inlets is covered with a closure whereby the dual direct-vented fireplace is assembled at the factory or in the field as either a horizontal or a vertical direct vented fireplace.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 1996Date of Patent: July 15, 1997Assignee: Heat-n-GlowInventors: Ronald John Shimek, Daniel Curtis Shimek
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Patent number: 5499622Abstract: Process and system for the operation of a fireplace or the like in which combustion products including pollutant gases and entrained particulate materials are treated to substantially reduce pollutant levels. The combustion products are passed through a confined flue passageway, such as found in a chimney stack, which extends upwardly to the exterior of the dwelling house or other structure. The flow of combustion products is interrupted in a manner to cause the products to follow a tortuous path in which entrained particulates in the combustion products are separated so that they collect in a suitable disposal zone. The combustion products then pass into an afterburner section comprising a plurality of heating elements. The temperature of the combustion products is sensed below the afterburner section and above bank of heating elements.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 1995Date of Patent: March 19, 1996Inventor: Maurice G. Woods
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Patent number: 5497761Abstract: The invention describes a heating device (1) for solid fuels (2) with a heating element (3) which comprises a combustion chamber (6) and adjacent thereto a flue gas conduit. Downstream of the combustion chamber (6) a suction device (30) for the flue gases (29) is arranged within the path of the flue gas conduit (39). A heat exchange unit (34, 78, 85) is arranged at least in the region of one of the two side walls (35, 36) and/or the rear wall of the heating element (3), whereby this unit is arranged at a distance from the side wall (35, 36) and/or the rear wall of the heating element (3) facing towards it. An admission opening (49) of the heat exchange unit (34, 78, 85) is connected to the interior (33) of the combustion chamber (6) by a discharge channel (32).Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 1994Date of Patent: March 12, 1996Inventor: Konrad Mayr
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Patent number: 5392760Abstract: A gas fireplace comprising a housing adapted to be located in a building. There is a first conduit in the housing to act as an air inlet. In insert is received within the housing. A second conduit in the insert aligns with and is received by the first conduit. The invention permits the construction of a gas fireplace in two stages, a first stage in which the housing is built into the building and a second, subsequent to all building activity, in which the insert is received within the housing.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 1992Date of Patent: February 28, 1995Inventor: Lothar Binzer
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Patent number: 5282459Abstract: A shield structure is arranged in mounted communication with a fireplace grate in adjacency to a rear wall of a fireplace to afford protection to the fire bricks of the fireplace rear wall minimizing their deterioration. The shield structure is arranged to include abutment portions to a rear face of the shield arrangement to provide for a spaced relationship of the shield relative to the fireplace rear wall to provide for an air barrier between the shield and the rear wall.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 1993Date of Patent: February 1, 1994Inventor: James E. Soule
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Patent number: 5218953Abstract: A standard prefabricated direct vented fireplace is designed for mass production on an assembly line where it is fitted with a plurality of different side walls or doors and optional heat exchangers for effecting different thermal efficiencies. The fireplace is factory adjusted for optimum burner efficiency under standard installation conditions. An induced draft fan/blower is installed in the path of the exhaust gasses and is provided with an in field adjustable variable speed control to overcome exceptionally high draft loss or long intake or exhaust passageways and to again optimize the burner efficiency after field installation.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 1992Date of Patent: June 15, 1993Inventors: Ronald J. Shimek, Daniel C. Shimek
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Patent number: 5062411Abstract: A heat exchanger for use in a fireplace assembly having walls surrounding a fire combustion chamber, an air passage provided therein and a flue assembly for exhausting combustion chamber effluent. The heat exchanger includes a housing adapted to be mounted in the fire combustion chamber and communicating with the air passage. The housing has a first housing wall, a second housing wall and intermediate walls connecting the first and second housing walls. The first housing wall has an opening therein to receive combustion chamber effluent. The second housing wall has an opening for emission of combustion chamber effluent which is adapted for communication with the flue of the fireplace assembly for exhaust of the combustion chamber effluent from the fireplace assembly. Intermediate walls connect the first and second housing walls in a spaced relation.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 1990Date of Patent: November 5, 1991Assignee: MAJCO Building Specialties, L.P.Inventors: Tadeusz Karabin, Roy E. Mundy
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Patent number: 5038754Abstract: A heat exchanger is disclosed herein for placement in the firebed of a standard fireplace which includes a heat box having an inlet and an outlet separated by a heat chamber having a series of baffles included for conducting an air flow across the panels of the heat box. The panels of the heat box define the heat chamber and are in close or immediate proximity to the fire in the firebed so that the heat induced into the panels is transferred to the air flow conducted past the panels by the baffles. A blower is coupled to the box inlet by a suitable conduit so that ambient room air is provided to the heat chamber while a discharge conducts the heated air flow back into the room.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 1991Date of Patent: August 13, 1991Inventor: Neal S. Scala
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Patent number: 5036830Abstract: A method and apparatus for burning a stack of newspapers in a fireplace or stove includes a firebox positionable in a fireplace or stove and having a floor for horizontally supporting a stack of newspapers and an air supply unit for directing a flow of air angularly onto the floor to flow around the sides of the stack and obtain burning of the outer surface of the stack.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 1990Date of Patent: August 6, 1991Inventor: Isaac C. Whiteley
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Patent number: 4967731Abstract: A flat cover formed of a fire resistant material is provided for use when igniting objects in a fireplace. The cover has an access and air opening which is disposed on the cover so that when the cover is positioned over the fireplace opening, the access and air opening is near the hearth area to permit access to the objects through the access and air opening while obstructing air flow into the fireplace except in the hearth region. The cover is rigid and may be formed of hingedly connected panels to permit folding and storage of the cover.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 1989Date of Patent: November 6, 1990Inventor: Diane D. Terhune
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Patent number: 4909227Abstract: The fireplace has a coaxial vent directly venting the exhaust gas through its top. The fresh air is directed through an outer jacket of the coaxial vent to a chamber located between the firebox and the rear panel and enters into the lower portion of the firebox while the exhaust air is conducted through the inner coaxial duct, located inside the fresh air duct, to be released to the outdoor. Residual heat in the exhaust gas is inherently recycled by the fresh air being drawn into the fireplace to enhance combustion and to increase the efficiency for heating purposes.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 1989Date of Patent: March 20, 1990Inventor: Heinz H. Rieger
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Patent number: 4821473Abstract: A chimney by-pass is disclosed for use with a main chimney. In case of a chimney fire, a movable damper closes off the main chimney, substantially reducing the severity of the chimney fire. The movable damper also opens an auxiliary chimney, allowing smoke to exit, uninterrupted through the auxiliary chimney, and may include a fan to assist the exit of smoke into the atmosphere. The movable damper may be actuated manually or automatically in case of a chimney fire.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 1988Date of Patent: April 18, 1989Inventor: Ernest E. Cowell
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Patent number: 4810173Abstract: A fire booster device is provided and consists of a portable air blower with an elongated hollow extension sleeve to guide forced air directly onto a source of a fire. In a modification the extension sleeve is movable and adjustable thereon for greater mobility of the device.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 1987Date of Patent: March 7, 1989Inventors: Robert W. Thomson, George Spector
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Patent number: 4793322Abstract: A zero clearance fireplace of the type to be installed inside of a building against or near an outside wall is provided. The box shaped fireplace is provided with four substantially vertical walls, a top wall and a bottom wall. The bottom wall comprises an inner plenum and an outer plenum below the combustion chamber. The rear wall comprises an outer plenum connected to the bottom plenum of the bottom wall, a middle plenum connected to a source of fresh air and connected to the inner plenum of the bottom wall and an inner plenum which is connected to a horizontal exhaust pipe which is inserted through the outside wall and is connected to the combustion chamber through a baffle arrangement.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 1986Date of Patent: December 27, 1988Inventors: Ronald J. Shimek, Daniel C. Shimek
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Patent number: 4787365Abstract: A double walled fireplace insert is shown with an inner firebox and an outer shell to provide convection air channels between the parallel walls of the inner and outer units. A front panel is integral with the outer shell, and it covers the front of the insert. This front panel has room air intake vents that open into the said air channels, and warmed air outlet vents that open into the room to be heated by this fireplace. There is a circulating fan positioned within the convection air channels for governing the air movement through the said channels.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 1987Date of Patent: November 29, 1988Inventor: Dwight E. Coleman