Gas adapter for wood-burning fire pits

Abstract

The present invention relates to a system for providing a gas burner adapter attachable to a wood-burning fire pit, the system including a burner, a connector detachably connected to the burner configured to pass through a narrow opening in the bottom of the wood fire pit, and a connection to a gas source.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a gas adapter that fits inside a wood-burning fire pit, and in particular to a gas adapter that converts wood-burning to gas-burning. [Background technology]

[0002] (Reference to Related Application) This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 384,571, filed November 21, 2022, entitled "GAS ADAPTER FOR WOOD FIRE PIT." Various convertible fire pits are disclosed in prior art patent documents. For example, U.S. Patent No. 9,038,620 discloses a portable, multi-sided outdoor fireplace that can be converted into an open grill, a rotisserie assembly, and a smoker assembly. The fireplace includes a carriage assembly with a pair of rotatable wheels and at least one leg member, a base pan assembly that houses a solid fuel heat source secured to the carriage assembly, and a removable screen assembly disposed on top of the base pan assembly. When converted into a grill, a removable grill bracket is added to the screen assembly. When converted into a smoker, the disclosed configuration includes at least one heat / wind shield that can be attached to the screen assembly, a smoker adapter body that is disposed on the screen assembly, an adjustable grate support bracket attached to the interior of the smoker adapter body, and a cover.

[0003] However, conventional convertible fire pits do not provide a means for easily switching between using wood as fuel and using a gas fuel source such as propane or natural gas. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To provide a means for using gas as fuel instead of wood in a wood-burning fire pit, and to provide a fire that can be used safely in areas where the use of wood is restricted or in situations where gas is more convenient.

[0005] In one aspect of the present invention, a system for providing a gas burner adapter to a wood-burning fire pit is provided, the system including a burner, a connector removably connected to the burner that is configured to pass through a narrow opening in the bottom of the wood-burning fire pit, and a connection to a gas source. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an exploded top perspective view showing one embodiment of a gas adapter for a wood burning fire pit according to the present disclosure. [Figure 2] 2 is a top perspective view of the assembled adapter shown in FIG. 1 connected to a gas source. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a bottom perspective view of the assembled adapter shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a top view of the adapter shown in FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 3 is a side view of the assembled adapter shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 6] 2 is an exploded top perspective view of the adapter shown in FIG. 1 positioned in accordance with a wood burning fire pit. FIG. [Figure 7] 2 is a side view of the assembled adapter shown in FIG. 1 inserted into a wood burning fire pit and connected to a gas source. [Figure 8] 2 is a top perspective view of the assembled adapter shown in FIG. 1 installed in a wood burning fire pit and connected to a gas source. FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a top view of the assembled adapter shown in FIG. 1 installed in a wood burning fire pit. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the assembled adapter shown in FIG. 1 inserted into a wood burning fire pit and unconnected to a gas source. [Figure 11]FIG. 11 is a detail view of FIG. 10 showing the fitting on the connector end of the adapter being inserted through the wooden fire pit. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is an exploded side view of all components of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 13] 2 is a side view of a connector for connecting a burner to a connecting means for a gas source in the embodiment of FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 14] 14 is a cross-sectional view of the connector taken along line AA shown in FIG. 13. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] A first embodiment of the invention includes a burner, a plate, a connector, and a connection to a gas source. The burner and connector are assembled and attached to the plate. These components are inserted into a wood-burning fire pit, and then connections are made to the gas source from the bottom of the fire pit.

[0008] Another embodiment of the invention includes a connection to a gas source connected to a hose, which in turn is connected to the gas source with or without a valve.

[0009] Yet another embodiment of the present invention includes an air mixer built into the connector for better combustion of the gas.

[0010] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the plate is omitted.

[0011] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, lava rocks are added to further aid in flame spreading, heat retention, radiation, and the appearance of the fire.

[0012] Further embodiments of the present invention further include burners of various shapes, which may be circular, octagonal, rectangular, triangular, etc.

[0013] In yet another embodiment, the connection to the gas source includes a quick release socket (which may be locking or non-locking).

[0014] The embodiments disclosed herein have the following advantages: The primary advantage is that gas can be used for combustion instead of wood, making it safe to use in areas where wood use is restricted or where gas is more convenient than wood.

[0015] Additional benefits include: No smoke - Instant ignition and extinguishing are possible, and the flame size can be precisely adjusted. The adapter of this embodiment can be attached to a wooden fire pit without any modifications (although other fire pits may require drilling holes to allow the connector to pass through, but this does not impair the wood's functionality). Adapter can be disassembled with or without tools and folds flat for storage The adapter cools down quickly Adapter is compatible with both propane and natural gas (with or without air mixer or valve) Can be used with or without accessories such as plates and lava rocks - Cooking function of the fireplace can be maintained. Includes a locking quick connect socket for connecting to a gas source

[0016] As used herein, terms such as "top," "bottom," "right," "left," "rear," "front," "vertical," "horizontal," and derivatives thereof are described with reference to the device orientation shown in FIG. 1. It should be noted, however, that the device may assume various alternative orientations and sequences of steps unless expressly specified otherwise. Furthermore, the specific devices and processes illustrated in the drawings attached hereto and described in the following specification are merely embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Accordingly, specific dimensions and physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be construed as limiting, unless the claims specifically state otherwise.

[0017] In the embodiment of the gas adapter 1 shown in Figure 1, the burner 2 is threaded onto the connector 4, which is inserted through the plate 3. These components are inserted into a wood burning fire pit 6 as shown in Figures 6 and 7. As shown in Figures 10 and 11, the connector 4 passes through an opening in the bottom of the wood burning fire pit 6. The connector 4 is then connected to a connection means 5 to a gas source as shown in Figure 7. The connection means 5 is itself connected to a suitable gas source as required.

[0018] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, adapter 1 is constructed by assembling three parts, but the functional components of adapter 1 can be constructed by combining parts of different shapes, or can be formed as a single, integrally molded part if desired. In the illustrated embodiment, adapter 1 is composed of burner 2, plate 3, and connector 4. In another embodiment, plate 3 can be omitted for natural gas or when no gas combustion auxiliary is used. Plate 3 can be of a different shape and still perform the same function.

[0019] In an alternative embodiment, the burner 2 and the connector 4 can be connected using a quick release connection instead of a threaded connection.

[0020] Figures 2 to 5 show an embodiment in which the adapter 1 is assembled and connected with connection means 5 to a gas source (connections not visible in Figure 4).

[0021] The connection means 5 to the gas source may be a threaded connection or other connection means for gas.

[0022] Figure 7 shows an embodiment in which the gas adapter 1 is assembled and inserted into a wood burning fire pit 6 and then connected to a connection means 5 to a gas source.

[0023] Figures 8 to 11 show the gas adapter 1 assembled, placed in a wood burning fire pit 6 and connected to a connection means 5 to a gas source (connections shown in Figure 8 only).

[0024] Alternatively, the wood burning fire pit 6 may be any shape of fire pit with holes in the bottom for gas passage.

[0025] In other embodiments, the wood burning fire pit 6 requires modification to create an opening through which the connector 4 can pass, but the modification is configured so that the original wood burning functionality is not impaired.

[0026] FIG. 12 shows all components of an embodiment including the gas adapter 1 and the connection means 5 to a gas source.

[0027] 1, the burner 2 is made up of two parts (a square burner 7 and a plug 8), but the functional components of the burner 2 may be assembled from parts of different shapes or may be integrally molded into a single part if desired. In the illustrated example, the burner 2 is made up of a square burner 7 and a plug 8.

[0028] In other embodiments, a circular burner 2 or a burner of any shape can be used. Furthermore, the burner 2 and the plate 3 can be integrated into one part.

[0029] 1, connector 4 is constructed from four components, however, the functional components of connector 4 may be constructed from more or fewer components, or may be formed as a single, integrally molded component, as desired. In the illustrated embodiment, connector 4 includes quick release fitting 12, reducer fitting 11, air mixer 10, and extender fitting 9. This configuration is designed to facilitate the combustion of propane gas.

[0030] In an alternative embodiment, the air mixer 10 may be omitted for both propane and natural gas combustion.

[0031] 13 and 14 show the details and cross-sectional structure of the connector 4. FIG.

[0032] It should also be noted that the configuration and arrangement of the elements of the device shown in the examples are merely illustrative. Although only a few embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art will readily understand, upon perusal of this disclosure, that many changes are possible (e.g., the size, dimensions, structure, shape, proportions, parameter values, mounting arrangement, material use, color, orientation, etc.) without substantially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter of the present invention. It should be noted that the configuration and arrangement of the illustrated device are merely illustrative, and other alternative configurations are possible. Although only a few embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that numerous modifications are possible (e.g., changes in the size, dimensions, structure, shape, proportions, parameter values, mounting method, material use, color, and arrangement, etc., of each element).

[0033] For example, elements shown as being one piece may be comprised of multiple pieces, elements shown as being multiple pieces may be one piece, operation of interfaces may be reversed or otherwise changed, the length or width of structures and / or members, connectors or other elements of the system may be changed, and the nature or number of adjustment points provided between elements may be changed.

[0034] It should be noted that the elements and / or assemblies comprising the system may be fabricated from a variety of materials having sufficient strength or durability, using any of a variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly, all such variations are intended to be within the scope of the present invention. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangements of the preferred and other embodiments without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0035] It should also be understood that any process or step described herein may be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form a structure. The structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting.

[0036] Furthermore, various changes and modifications in the structure and method of the present device are possible, all of which are within the scope of the inventive concept. Nothing in this specification is intended to be limiting except as expressly set forth in the claims.

[0037] The above description is to be considered as being of the illustrated embodiments. It should be understood that those skilled in the art in making or using the devices may make many modifications from the teachings disclosed herein. Accordingly, it should be understood that the embodiments shown in the specification and drawings are merely illustrative and do not limit the scope of the invention as defined by the claims. The claims are to be construed in accordance with the principles of patent law, particularly the doctrine of equivalents.

Claims

1. Burner and a connector detachably connected to the burner, the connector configured to pass through a narrow opening at the bottom of the wood burning fire pit; and connection to a gas source. Gas adapter system for wood burning fire pits.

2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the connector comprises a fitting for connecting a burner and a gas source.

3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the connector is integrally molded.

4. 4. The system of claim 3, wherein the connector is made of brass.

5. 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising a plate for holding a gas fire accessory for improving combustion performance.

6. The system of claim 5 , wherein the plate is constructed from a heat-resistant material.

7. The system of claim 1 , wherein the connector includes an air mixer for improving combustion efficiency.

8. The system of claim 1 further comprising a hose connecting to the gas source.

9. The system of claim 1 further comprising a regulator.

10. The system of claim 1 further comprising a valve.

11. The system of claim 1 further comprising a gas fire accessory, such as a lava rock or glass.

12. The system of claim 1 , wherein the connection to the gas source is an elbow fitting.

13. The system of claim 1 , wherein the burner is square.

14. A method of converting a wood burning fire pit to gas burning, comprising installing a gas adapter through an existing opening.

15. 15. The system of claim 14, wherein the adapter components are a burner, a connector, and a connection to a gas source.

16. 16. The system of claim 15, wherein the connection to the gas source is of the quick connect type.

17. The system of claim 15 , wherein the burner and connector are inserted through holes in a plate.

18. 16. The system of claim 15, wherein the adapter components are storable flat when disassembled.

19. A method for converting a wood fire pit to gas burning, comprising creating an opening in the fire pit and installing a gas adapter therein.

20. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the modification of the fire pit does not impair the wood-using function of the fire pit.

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