Combustible fuel-fired furnace with spark arrestor

Abstract

A stove having a top portion comprising a spark arrestor comprising a base assembly comprising a base ring, a base crown, a mesh side screen connecting the base ring and the base crown, and at least one handle, and a top assembly comprising a top crown, a mesh top screen extending from the top crown, and at least one handle, wherein the base assembly is dimensioned to be detachably fitted onto the top of the stove such that the base assembly is configured to block sparks or embers generated by the stove, and wherein the top assembly is removably fitted onto the base crown such that the top assembly is configured to block sparks or embers generated by the stove.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The subject matter described herein relates to a combustible fuel combustion stove with a two-piece spark extinguisher. This spark extinguisher has a specific, but not exclusive, use for portable backyard fire pits. Background Technology

[0002] Portable wood-burning stoves and fire pits are used, for example, in camping, backyards, or other places, to provide outdoor heat, ambiance, decoration, and support for cooking, such as roasting marshmallows and hot dogs, toasting bread, etc.

[0003] A furnace (including a fire pit, defined herein as a furnace) may require a combination of a large amount of fuel (e.g., logs and sticks) and a small amount of flammable fuel (e.g., twigs, straw, paper, etc.), and may produce significant upward and outward airflows that can carry away sparks and embers from the burning fuel. For this reason, spark extinguishers can be used to minimize the amount of sparks and embers escaping from the furnace or fire pit. However, existing spark extinguishers either completely cover the top of the furnace or fire pit with a sieve or grid, restricting access to the combustion zone (e.g., for adding extra fuel), or include multi-part components with hinges, which increases complexity and weight and is prone to warping, corrosion, debris entrainment, and other problems. Existing spark extinguishers also employ welds and other linear connections, which impair the visual appearance and create points of failure that limit the lifespan of the spark extinguisher.

[0004] Spark extinguishers used in large fire pits can bend or sag when subjected to repeated cycles of cold (during periods of inactivity) and high temperatures (during use), which can be aesthetically unappealing and may cause mismatch with other components of the fire pit, posing a potential fire hazard. Spark extinguishers are also prone to oxidation and other deformations that can limit their lifespan and, in some cases, lead to structural failure and additional fire risks. Conventional spark extinguishers may also provide insufficient airflow, which can result in incomplete fuel combustion, insufficient heat generation, and excessive smoke production. Complex spark extinguishers with seams and hinges can be heavy (and therefore less portable), require significant amounts of material to construct, and may involve complex (and therefore more expensive) manufacturing processes.

[0005] Therefore, it is understandable that this commonly used spark extinguisher has many drawbacks, including high cost, heavy weight, poor portability, poor combustion performance, short service life, smoke generation, fire risk, safety risks, and reduced aesthetics, among others. Consequently, there has long been a need for spark extinguishers that address these and other problems.

[0006] The information contained in the background section of this specification, including any references cited herein and any descriptions or discussions thereof, is introduced for technical reference purposes only and should not be considered as the subject matter to which this disclosure is bound. Summary of the Invention

[0007] A spark extinguisher for a wood-burning stove is disclosed. In some aspects, the disclosed device includes a stove having a top portion, comprising: a spark extinguisher including: a base assembly including a base ring, a base crown, a mesh side screen connecting the base ring and the base crown, and at least one handle; a top assembly including a top crown, a mesh top screen extending from the top crown, and at least one handle; wherein the base assembly is sized to be detachably fitted to the top of the stove such that the base assembly is configured to block sparks or embers generated by the stove, and wherein the top assembly is detachably fitted to the base crown such that the top assembly is configured to block sparks or embers generated by the stove.

[0008] An embodiment may include a furnace in which a base ring, a base crown, and a top crown are circular. In the furnace, a mesh side screen is formed into a truncated cone, pyramid, cylinder, or rectangular tube. In the furnace, a mesh top screen is flat. In the furnace, the radius of curvature of the flat mesh screen is greater than the width or diameter of the base ring. The furnace further includes at least one recessed support located in at least one of the base crown or the top crown. In this furnace, both the base crown and the top crown include the recessed support, and the recessed support of the top crown interacts with the support of the base crown to prevent rotation of the top crown relative to the base crown. In the furnace, the at least one recessed support is sized to receive a roasting skewer within the recessed support, having a proximal end in contact with the ground and a distal end suspended above the furnace. In the furnace, the at least one handle of the base assembly includes two handles spaced approximately 180 degrees apart on the base assembly, and the at least one handle of the top assembly includes two handles spaced approximately 180 degrees apart on the top assembly. In the furnace, the handle of the base assembly is shaped to be hooked by a pair of removal tools for stable directional lifting of the base assembly. In the furnace, the handle of the top assembly is configured such that a pair of removal tools can hook into the handle and lift the top assembly horizontally. In the furnace, at least one of the furnace, base ring, base crown, mesh side screen, at least one handle of the base assembly, top crown, mesh top screen, and at least one handle of the top assembly is made of stainless steel. In the furnace, at least one of the mesh side screen and the mesh top screen includes a mesh with an open space between 60% and 90%.

[0009] In some aspects, the disclosed device includes a spark extinguisher for a combustion furnace, comprising: a truncated conical base assembly including a base ring, a base crown, a mesh side screen, and at least one handle; and a top assembly including a top crown, a mesh top screen, and at least one handle; wherein the base assembly is detachably mounted to the top of the furnace such that the base assembly is configured to block sparks or embers generated by the furnace, and wherein the top assembly is detachably mounted to the base crown such that the top assembly is configured to block sparks or embers generated by the furnace.

[0010] Embodiments may include: a spark extinguisher wherein the base ring, base crown, and top crown are circular, the mesh side screens form truncated cones, and the top mesh forms a dome with a radius of curvature greater than the width or diameter of the base ring. The spark extinguisher further includes at least one recessed support in the base crown and at least one support in the top crown, wherein the at least one support in the top crown interacts with the at least one support in the base crown to prevent rotation of the top crown relative to the base crown, and wherein the support is configured such that a stoker can be placed in the support, its proximal end contacting the ground and its distal end suspended above the furnace. In the spark extinguisher, the at least one handle of the base assembly includes two handles spaced approximately 180 degrees apart on the base assembly, and wherein the at least one handle of the top assembly includes two handles spaced approximately 180 degrees apart on the top assembly, configured such that a pair of removal tools can hook into the handles and lift one or both of the top assembly or base assembly in a horizontal orientation. In the spark extinguisher, the base ring, base crown, mesh side screen, at least one handle of the base assembly, top crown, mesh top screen, and at least one handle of the top assembly are made of stainless steel, and wherein the mesh side screen and the mesh top screen comprise meshes having an open space between 60% and 90%.

[0011] In some aspects, the disclosed device includes a furnace assembly comprising: a combustion furnace including: a combustion chamber; a top edge; a support located on the top edge; a roasting rod including: a proximal assembly including: a handle; a proximal rod segment attached to the distal end of the handle; a threaded protruding end disposed at the distal end of the proximal rod segment; a distal assembly including: a distal rod segment; a threaded concave receiver disposed at the proximal end of the distal rod segment; and an end disposed at the distal end of the distal rod segment, the end being configured to hold or suspend. The food, with a threaded concave receiver, can be threadedly connected to a threaded convex end to longitudinally connect the proximal and distal rod segments. The lengths of the longitudinally connected proximal and distal rod segments are sufficient to suspend the food above the combustion chamber. The threaded concave receiver cannot be unscrewed from the threaded convex end to reduce its length. The lengths of the longitudinally connected proximal and distal rod segments are sufficient to extend from the ground into the support and above the combustion chamber. The lengths of the proximal and distal rod segments are sufficient to be fully assembled within the combustion chamber when separated from each other.

[0012] The embodiment may include: a furnace assembly in which the handle, proximal rod section, threaded protruding end, distal rod section, threaded concave receiver, and end are made of stainless steel.

[0013] In some aspects, the disclosed device includes a removal tool for a spark extinguisher of a furnace, comprising: a handle; a rod disposed at a distal end of the handle; and a hook disposed at a distal end of the rod, the hook comprising: an elevated curved portion; two lowered curved portions; and an elevated end.

[0014] The embodiment may include removal tools, wherein the dimensions and shape of the raised curved section, two lowered curved sections, and the raised end are designed to engage with the handle of the spark extinguisher, such that when the two removal tools engage with the handles on the spark extinguisher, which are spaced 180 degrees apart, the spark extinguisher or its sub-assemblies can be horizontally removed from or placed back onto the furnace. The removal tools are made of stainless steel.

[0015] In some aspects, the disclosed apparatus includes a furnace for burning solid fuel to generate heat, the furnace comprising: an inner wall having a lower and an upper portion; an outer wall having a lower and an upper portion; an air-filled space between the inner and outer walls; a chimney formed by the inner wall; a combustion zone located within the chimney; at least one vent in the upper portion of the inner wall; at least one vent in the lower portion of the outer wall; and a spark extinguisher located above the combustion zone, comprising: a truncated conical base assembly including a base ring, a base crown, a mesh side screen, and at least one handle; and a top assembly including a top crown, a mesh top screen, and at least one handle; wherein the base assembly is detachably mounted to the top of the furnace such that the base assembly is configured to block sparks or embers generated by the furnace, and wherein the top assembly is detachably mounted to the top of the base such that the top assembly is configured to block sparks or embers generated by the furnace.

[0016] An embodiment may include a furnace in which a spark extinguisher is supported only around its periphery. In the furnace, a handle is sized and shaped such that it can be lifted using a removal tool without altering its orientation relative to the ground. The furnace also includes one or more supports sized and shaped such that a roasting skewer can be placed within the supports, with its proximal end touching the ground and its distal end positioned above the furnace. The furnace also includes the roasting skewer. The furnace also includes the removal tool.

[0017] In some aspects, the disclosed device includes a spark extinguisher assembly for a combustion furnace, comprising: a first assembly including: a first ring defining a lower opening, a first crown defining an upper opening, and a mesh side screen extending between the first ring and the first crown; and a second assembly detachably disposed on the first assembly, sized and shaped to cover the upper opening defined by the first crown of the first assembly, the second assembly including: a second ring forming a periphery defining a region of a top assembly; a mesh top screen in the region defined by the periphery, and wherein at least one of the first and second assemblies includes a handle.

[0018] An embodiment may include a spark extinguisher assembly, wherein a first assembly includes at least one handle and a second assembly includes at least one handle. In the spark extinguisher assembly, a mesh top screen spans an area defined by the periphery of a second ring. In the spark extinguisher assembly, the second ring has a diameter substantially the same as the first crown. In the spark extinguisher assembly, the area of ​​the lower opening is larger than the area of ​​the upper opening, and the lower assembly has a frustoconical shape. The spark extinguisher assembly also includes a removal tool shaped to engage with the handles at the at least two spaced locations to provide stability. In the spark extinguisher assembly, the removal tool includes: a rod having a distal end and a proximal end; and a hook disposed at the distal end of the rod, the hook including: an elevated curved portion; two descending curved portions; and an elevated end. In the spark extinguisher assembly, the first ring, the first crown, and the second ring are circular.

[0019] The spark extinguishers disclosed in this article can be used in furnaces, including fire pits, but are not limited thereto.

[0020] The present invention provides a simplified overview of selected concepts, which are further described in the detailed description below. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. A broader presentation of the features, details, effects, and advantages of the spark extinguishers as defined in the claims is provided in the following written description of various embodiments of this disclosure and is illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0021] The illustrative embodiments of this disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0022] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of an example combustion furnace according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, such as a wood combustion furnace including a spark extinguisher.

[0023] Figure 2 This is an exemplary exploded view of a wood-burning stove with a spark extinguisher according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 3 This is a top perspective view of an example spark extinguisher for a wood-burning furnace according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 4 This is a bottom perspective view of the top assembly of a spark extinguisher for a wood combustion furnace according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the top assembly of an example spark extinguisher for a wood combustion furnace according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, showing an example folded and stamped friction fitting for securing the top screen to a top crown having a top retaining ring.

[0027] Figure 6 This is a bottom perspective view of the base assembly of an example spark extinguisher for a wood combustion furnace according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 7 This is a view of an example crimped connection of an example spark extinguisher base assembly for a wood combustion furnace according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of an example spark extinguisher housed within an example wood-burning furnace according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of an example spark extinguisher housed within an example wood-burning furnace according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of an example spark extinguisher housed within an example wood-burning furnace according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of an alternative storage structure for a wood-burning furnace with a spark extinguisher according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of an example removal tool for a spark extinguisher according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 13 This is a perspective view of an example spark extinguisher base assembly lifted using a pair of example removal tools according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 14 This is a perspective view of the top component of an example spark extinguisher lifted using a pair of example removal tools according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 15 This is a view of an example roasting bar for a wood-burning stove with a spark extinguisher according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 16 This is a perspective view of an example roasting stick resting in one of the supports of the top assembly of an example wood-burning stove having a spark extinguisher, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 17 This is a closer perspective view of an example roasting stick resting in the top assembly of the spark extinguisher of an example wood-burning stove with a spark extinguisher.

[0039] Figure 18 This is a perspective view of an example roasting stick resting in the roasting stick support of an example wood-burning stove with a spark extinguisher base assembly, the roasting stick being held by a user. Detailed Implementation

[0040] To facilitate understanding of the principles of this disclosure, reference will now be made to embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings, which will be described using specific language. However, it should be understood that this disclosure is not intended to limit its scope. Any changes and further modifications to the described apparatus, systems, and methods, as well as any further application of the principles of this disclosure, are fully considered and included within this disclosure, as would normally occur to those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains. In particular, it is fully understood that features, components, and / or steps described with respect to one embodiment can be combined with features, components, and / or steps described with respect to other embodiments of this disclosure. However, for the sake of brevity, multiple iterations of these combinations will not be described separately.

[0041] According to at least one embodiment of this disclosure, a spark extinguisher for a wood combustion furnace is provided, comprising novel structural features to minimize the number and velocity of sparks escaping from the furnace during fuel combustion and to prevent significant warping, bending, sagging, or other deformation under anticipated heat loads under normal and potentially abnormal use conditions. The disclosed spark extinguisher also includes airflow features that promote complete fuel combustion, which allows the furnace to generate more heat and significantly reduce smoke compared to existing spark extinguishers. This design can be readily manufactured (e.g., by stamping, forming, and folding a combination of sheet metal and mesh blanks of the construction described herein or other constructions with the same effect), allowing it to be lighter, cheaper, more durable, and more aesthetically pleasing than hinge assemblies with comparable spark-blocking capabilities, while also being more versatile than one-piece spark extinguisher assemblies.

[0042] These descriptions are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of spark extinguishers. Certain features may be added, removed, or modified without departing from the spirit of the claimed subject matter.

[0043] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of an example combustion furnace 90 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, including a wood combustion furnace 150 and a spark extinguisher 100. In some embodiments, the spark extinguisher 100 is a two-part assembly forming a circular frustocone with a slightly domed top. The spark extinguisher 100 includes a spark extinguisher base assembly 101 and a spark extinguisher top assembly 112. During normal operation, the top assembly 112 is detachably supported on the base assembly 101, which is detachably supported on a connecting ring 125, which is detachably supported on the top portion 152 of the furnace or fire pit 150.

[0044] The spark extinguisher 112 rests against the top of the connecting ring 125 of the furnace or fire pit 150. The connecting ring 125 is sized and shaped to engage with the annular upper surface of the top 152 of the furnace or fire pit 150 and with the truncated cone shape of the spark extinguisher base assembly 101.

[0045] The grate 151 is located within the furnace or fire pit 150 and supports the weight of fuel 160 (e.g., logs and sticks), while allowing airflow through the grate 151 and the furnace or fire pit 150 to promote combustion of the fuel 160. The grate 151 is robust and rigid to maintain its shape at both ambient and operating temperatures, and resists significant warping or other significant deformation despite prolonged and repeated exposure to combustion heat.

[0046] exist Figure 1In an exemplary embodiment, the combustion furnace 150 includes a top 152, a bottom 154, and a middle 156. The fire pit 150 also includes an inner wall or inner body 110, an outer wall or outer body 120, a connecting ring 125, and a chimney or combustion chamber 190 defined by the inner body 110, in which a grate 151 is positioned. The connecting ring 125 is located in the top 152 of the furnace 150 and is attached to or formed as a single piece with the inner body 110 and outer body 120. The furnace 150 also includes a top lip 115, which is attached to or formed as a single piece with either the inner body 110 or outer body 120. The furnace 150 also includes a plurality of external vents 122 located in the bottom 154 of the outer body 120 and a plurality of internal vents 124 located in the top 152 of the inner body 110. In the middle 156 of the furnace 150, the inner body 110 terminates at the upward-facing support lip or flipping part 153, where the grate 151 is assembled or supported.

[0047] The furnace 150 also includes a base plate 170 attached to the outer body 120, a support tray 175 supported by brackets projecting upward from the base plate, and a collection tray 180 supported by brackets projecting upward from the support tray 175, such that the support tray is separated from the outer body by an air gap 176, the collection tray 180 is separated from the outer body 120 by an air gap 178, and the inner body is separated from the outer body by an air gap 179. In one example, air gaps 176 and 179 are both about 50 mm, and air gap 178 is about 100 mm, but other air gaps with the disclosed advantageous effects may also be used.

[0048] The chimney or combustion chamber 190 is in fluid communication with the air gap 179 through the internal ventilation hole 124, and with the air gaps 178 and 176 through the grate 151. The air gaps 176 and 178 are in fluid communication with the ambient air through the external ventilation hole 122, so that the ambient air can be drawn in through the external ventilation hole 122, heated by the combustion of fuel 160, and discharged through the chimney or combustion chamber 190 and the internal ventilation hole 124 to produce favorable combustion of fuel 160.

[0049] In one example, the solid components of the spark arrester 100, grate 151, and furnace or fire pit 150 are made of stainless steel sheet with a thickness ranging from approximately 0.5 mm to approximately 2.5 mm. Some examples of grate 151 and furnace or fire pit 150 are formed of stainless steel with a thickness of 1.0 mm to 2.0 mm, and one example is stainless steel with a thickness of approximately 1.5 mm. Thicker and thinner materials are also considered.

[0050] In one example, for each period of use of 1 to 12 hours, the spark extinguisher 100 or a portion thereof may be heated to a temperature between approximately 700°F (371°C) and approximately 1350°F (732°C) by the combustion of fuel 160. During periods of non-use, the spark extinguisher 100 may also experience ambient temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C). In one example, over several years of normal operation, with repeated cycles between ambient and operating temperatures (e.g., one hundred cycles), the spark extinguisher 100 may exhibit little or no bending, warping, or heat-related oxidation, which would adversely affect its aesthetic appearance, its performance, or its mechanical fit within the top lip 115 of the furnace or fire pit 150.

[0051] Axis 270 shows a vertical reference line passing through the center of the furnace or fire pit 150.

[0052] The design of the two-piece spark extinguisher 100 allows the top 152 of the stove or fire pit 150 to be covered by the spark extinguisher base assembly 101 and the spark extinguisher top assembly 112, thereby limiting the escape of sparks in all directions. In this configuration, the top screen 213 of the top assembly 101 can also be used as a light cooking grill, such as for toasting bread, grilling hamburgers, heating light pans or cans, or heating other light foods. However, the two-piece spark extinguisher 100 also allows the top assembly 112 to be lifted from the base assembly 101 and placed aside, so that the top portion 152 of the stove 150 is protected from lateral or horizontal escape of sparks or embers by the frustoconical mesh 203 of the base assembly 101, while allowing vertical escape of sparks or embers if the user deems it acceptable or desirable. This top-removal configuration can, for example, allow the user access to the combustion chamber 190 to add or rearrange fuel 160, or can improve or alter airflow or combustion efficiency, improve or alter cooking characteristics, or change the aesthetic appearance of the stove or fire pit 150. A single-piece spark arrestor does not offer these advantages; it can only be lifted as a unit. Some articulated spark arrestors may offer some of the aforementioned advantages, but if these advantages are present, they require greater complexity, weight, and cost, and have more failure modes, resulting in a shorter lifespan.

[0053] This disclosure also provides a seamless design that eliminates the need for welding, brazing, or soldering of seams, or for placing metal covers over or integrating metal covers into seams. This allows for a more aesthetically pleasing design that can be manufactured at a lower cost and, consequently, provides greater airflow for favorable combustion. In one example, the mesh component of the spark extinguisher 100 is made of stainless steel to limit corrosion, limit heat conduction, and improve aesthetics, but other materials may also be used.

[0054] Figure 2This is an exemplary exploded view of a wood-burning stove 150 having a spark arrester 100 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The spark arrester base assembly 101 includes a base ring 202, a frustoconical screen 203, and a base retaining ring 204 that retains the frustoconical screen 203 to the base ring 202. In some embodiments, the base retaining ring 204 retains the frustoconical screen 203 to the base ring 202 with a press-fit compression fitting. The base assembly 101 also includes a base crown 205, which includes supports 206 and handles 207. In one example, the base crown 205 includes four supports 206 and two handles 207. In some embodiments, the base crown 205 is attached to the frustoconical screen 203 with a compression fitting. In some embodiments, the compression fitting is supplemented by welded portions (e.g., two, three, or four welded portions) spaced apart around the base crown 205 to prevent movement of the base crown 205 relative to the truncated cone screen 203.

[0055] The spark extinguisher top assembly 112 includes a mesh top 213. In some embodiments, the mesh top 213 is slightly dome-shaped to increase rigidity and minimize warping. A non-domed (i.e., flat) mesh top 213 may also be used, but may be less effective. In one example, the mesh top is dome-shaped such that its center is between 0.635 cm and 5.08 cm higher than its outer edge, or its radius of curvature is greater than the outer diameter of the furnace 150 or the base ring 202. For the purposes of this document, mesh tops with a radius of curvature greater than the outer diameter of the furnace 150 or the base ring 202 should be described as flat mesh tops to distinguish them from related art spark extinguisher structures, which may be substantially dome-shaped with a radius of curvature smaller than the outer diameter of the furnace upon which they are supported.

[0056] The top assembly 112 also includes a top crown 214, which includes a support 206 and a handle 207. In one example, the top crown 214 includes four supports 206 and two supports 207. The supports may be grooves, notches, recesses, or other related structures within the top crown 214 and the base crown 205. In some embodiments, the supports 206 of the top crown 214 are fitted within or interact with the supports 206 of the base crown 205 to prevent rotation of the spark extinguisher top assembly 112 and thus help keep the screen blocker top assembly 112 in place on the screen blocker base assembly 101. The top assembly 112 also includes a top retaining ring 215 that holds the mesh top 213 to the top crown 214 by folding and stamping a compression fitting.

[0057] In one example, the mesh top 113 and the truncated conical screen 203 are made of 304SS woven steel mesh with a wire diameter of 0.7 mm and an open area of ​​approximately 74%. In another example, the base ring 202, base retaining ring 204, base crown 205, top crown 214, and top retaining ring 215 are made of 0.762 mm thick 304 stainless steel.

[0058] In some embodiments, the furnace 150, connecting ring 125, and base ring 202 are sized and shaped such that the base assembly 101 is "positioned" within the top lip 115 when placed on the furnace 150. Similarly, in some embodiments, the base crown 205 and top crown 214 are sized and shaped such that the top assembly is positioned on the base assembly when placed on it.

[0059] Figure 3 This is a top perspective view of an example spark extinguisher 100 for a wood combustion furnace 150 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. In this example, a top assembly 112 rests against a base assembly 101. Visible are the base ring 202, the truncated conical mesh 203, the base crown 205, and the handle 207 of the base assembly 101. Also visible are the mesh top 213, the top crown 214, the support 206, and the handle 207 of the top assembly 112. In this example, the width of the spark extinguisher 100 is much greater than its height. This low-profile design increases stability by making the spark extinguisher 100 more difficult to accidentally remove from the furnace 150. In one example, all components are made of non-powder-coated stainless steel and are designed to butt-and-position or self-locate in an operating configuration and nested in a storage configuration (see below). Figure 8-11 ).

[0060] In some embodiments, the handles 207 of the base assembly 101 are positioned 180 degrees apart to facilitate the use of a pair of removal tools (see below) in a stable (horizontal or near-horizontal) orientation. Figure 15-17 (Lifting). Similarly, the handles 207 of the top assembly 112 can be positioned 180 degrees apart, and the support portion 206 of the top assembly 112 and the base assembly 101 can interact, allowing the top assembly 112 to be placed on the base assembly 101 with its handle at a 90-degree angle to the handle of the base assembly 101, such as... Figure 3 As shown.

[0061] Figure 4 This is a bottom perspective view of the top assembly 112 of a spark extinguisher 100 for a wood combustion furnace 150 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The mesh top 213, top crown 214, support 206, and handle 207 of the top assembly 112, as well as the reference axis 270, are visible.

[0062] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the top assembly 112 of an example spark extinguisher 100 for a wood combustion furnace 150 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, showing an example folded and stamped friction fitting that secures the top screen 213 to the top crown 214 with a top retaining ring 215. In this example, the top screen 213 is folded under the top retaining ring 215, and the top retaining ring 215 and the top screen 213 have been stamped into place within the top crown 214. Other types of fittings or connection methods may also be used. However, Figure 5 The folding and stamping friction fittings shown may contribute to a faster, simpler, and cheaper manufacturing process.

[0063] Figure 6 This is a bottom perspective view of a base assembly 101 of an example spark extinguisher 100 for a wood combustion furnace 150 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Visible are the base ring 202, the frustoconical screen 203, the base retaining ring 204, the base crown 205, the support 206, and the handle 207, as well as the reference axis 270. In this example, the base retaining ring 204 holds the frustoconical screen 203 against the inner surface of the base ring 202 by a friction fit, but other attachment methods may also be used. In this example, the attachment between the frustoconical screen 203 and the base crown 205 is also a friction fit, but other attachment methods may also be used.

[0064] Figure 7 This is a view of an example crimped connection 601 of an example spark extinguisher base assembly 101 for a wood combustion furnace 150 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Visible are the base ring 202, the truncated conical screen 203, the base retaining ring 204, the base crown 205, and the support 206 of the base assembly 101. In this example, the screen 203 is fitted to the base ring 202 by friction engagement via the base retaining ring 204, supplemented by a series of crimped connections 601 to further prevent movement of the components. Other types of fittings or accessories may be used. However, Figure 7 The press-fit friction fitting shown may contribute to a faster, simpler, and cheaper manufacturing process.

[0065] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of an example spark extinguisher 100 housed within an example wood-burning furnace 150 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. In this example, the spark extinguisher top assembly 112 is positioned with its right side facing upward in the bottom 154 of the furnace or fire pit 150 (i.e., on top of the grate 151), and the spark extinguisher base assembly 101 is inverted in the top 152 of the furnace or fire pit 150. The connecting ring 125 is not visible in this view.

[0066] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of an example spark extinguisher 100 housed within an example wood combustion furnace 150 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8 As shown, the spark extinguisher top assembly 112 is placed with its right side facing upwards in the bottom 154 of the furnace or fire pit 150 (i.e., on top of the grate 151), and the spark extinguisher base assembly connecting ring 101 is inverted in the top 152 of the furnace or fire pit 150 and held in place by the top lip 115 of the furnace 150. The connecting ring 125 is moved into place in an inverted orientation. The connecting ring 125 is placed in an inverted orientation on top of the base assembly 101.

[0067] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of an example spark extinguisher 100 housed within an example wood combustion furnace 150 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the spark extinguisher top assembly 112 is placed with its right side facing upward in the bottom 154 of the furnace or fire pit 150 (i.e., on top of the grate 151), and the spark extinguisher base assembly 101 is placed upside down in the top 152 of the furnace or fire pit 150, with the connecting ring 125 upside down on top of the base assembly 101. Both the base assembly 101 and the connecting ring 125 are held in place by the top lip 115 of the furnace or fire pit 150.

[0068] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of an alternative storage configuration of a wood-burning stove 150 with a spark extinguisher 100 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. In this example, the spark extinguisher base assembly 101 has been placed upside down in the top 152 of the interior of the stove or fire pit 150. The connecting ring 125 has been placed upside down on top of the base assembly 101, and the spark extinguisher top assembly 112 has been placed right-side up within the base assembly 101. This configuration also allows for the partial covering storage of fire-starting and cooking appliances 1100 in the bottom 154 of the stove or fire pit 150 (i.e., on top of the grate 151). Both the base assembly 101 and the connecting ring 125 are held in place by the top lip 115 of the stove or fire pit 150.

[0069] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of an example removal tool 1200 for a spark extinguisher 100 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The removal tool 1200 includes a handle 1210, a lever 1220, and a hook 1230. In this example, the hook 1230 is sized and shaped to engage with the handle 207 of both the top assembly 112 and the base assembly 101 of the spark extinguisher. The hook 1230 includes an elevated curve 1234, two lowered curves 1236, and an elevated end 1238, sized and shaped to engage with the handle 207, as shown below. Figure 13 and 14 As shown. In one example, the removal tool 1200 is made of stainless steel to limit corrosion and heat conduction. The handle 1210 can be a solid structure (e.g., a stainless steel bar), but a hollow handle 1210 may be lighter.

[0070] Figure 13 This is a perspective view of an example spark extinguisher base assembly 101 lifted using a pair of example removal tools 1200 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The hooks 1230 of the removal tools 1200 engage with the handles 207 of the base assembly 101, allowing the base assembly to be moved in a stable, horizontal, or near-horizontal orientation without tipping, falling, or dangling, as these conditions could pose a fire or safety hazard if the base assembly 101 and / or the top assembly 112 are hot. The base assembly 101 can be removed from or replaced on the connecting ring 125 of the furnace 150 using the removal tools 1200, with the top assembly 112 supported on or not supported on the base assembly 101.

[0071] Figure 14 This is a perspective view of an example spark extinguisher top assembly 112 raised using a pair of example removal tools 112 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The hooks 1230 of the removal tools 1200 engage with the handles 207 of the base assembly 101, such that the two lowered curves 1236 fit below the handles 207, while the raised curves 1234 and raised ends 1238 rise above the handles 207. Also as Figure 13 As shown, this configuration provides stability, allowing the supported components (i.e., top component 112, base component 101, or spark extinguisher 100) to remain in a stable, near-horizontal orientation and preventing the supported components from tipping over, shaking, swaying, or falling.

[0072] Figure 15This is a view of an example grill bar 1300 for a wood-burning stove 150 having a spark extinguisher 100, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The grill bar 1300 includes a handle 1310, a rod 1320, and an end 1330. The rod 1320 also includes a proximal rod segment 1322, a threaded protruding end 1324, a threaded concave receiver 1326, a distal rod segment 1328, and the end 1330. The threaded protruding end 1324 of the proximal rod segment 1322 can be threaded into the threaded concave receiver 1326 of the distal rod segment 1328 to form a continuous rod 1320. In some embodiments, the end 1330 also includes serrations 1334, making it usable for grilling hot dogs, marshmallows, and other foods. In other embodiments, the end may include a tray, basket, grill rack, or other accessories for holding food above the wood-burning stove 150. In this example, the grill bar 1300 is made of stainless steel to limit heat conduction and corrosion. The handle 1310 can be a solid structure (e.g., a stainless steel bar), but a hollow handle 1310 may be lighter.

[0073] Figure 16 This is a perspective view of an example grill stick 1300 resting in one of the support portions 206 of the top assembly 112 of an example wood-burning stove 150 having a spark extinguisher 100, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. In this configuration, the handle of the grill stick 1300 rests on the ground near the stove 150, while the rod 1320 of the grill stick 1300 rests in the support portion 206, and the end 1330 of the grill stick hangs above the stove 150, so that it can be used to grill marshmallows, hot dogs, or other foods. An advantage of this configuration is that lateral movement of the grill stick 1300 is gently prevented by the support portion 206, while longitudinal movement of the grill stick 1300 is prevented by the ground. Therefore, once placed in this configuration, the grill stick 1300 can be used for hands-free grilling of hot dogs, marshmallows, and other foods.

[0074] The support 206 may optionally include a latch, lock, or friction element to further impede movement of the bacon 1300, but this may not be advantageous because the simple notch 206 in the top crown 214 allows the bacon to be picked up with minimal effort, rotated about its longitudinal axis, or longitudinally repositioned. Longitudinal repositioning also has the effect of changing the height H of the bacon end 1330 above the oven 150, thereby altering the heating and cooking characteristics of any food attached to the bacon end 1330. In some embodiments, the length L of the bacon 1330 is selected such that when the bacon handle 1320 rests on the ground and the bacon rod 1320 rests in the support 206, the bacon end 1330 remains close to the centerline of the oven 150 (i.e., close to the axis 270), regardless of the selected value of H. In one example, for a furnace with a diameter of 49 cm or less, the length L is between 1.2 and 2.0 times the furnace diameter, and for a furnace with a diameter greater than 49 cm, the length L is between 1.8 and 2.5 times the furnace diameter. In another example, for a furnace with a diameter of 49 cm or less, the value H + furnace height is between 1.4 and 1.1 times the furnace diameter, and for a furnace with a diameter greater than 49 cm, it is between 0.7 and 1.2 times the furnace diameter.

[0075] When the top assembly 112 is removed from the oven 150 but the base assembly 101 remains in place, the baking stick 1300 may alternatively rest in one of the supports 206 of the base crown 205 instead of in the supports 206 of the top crown 214.

[0076] Figure 17 This is a closer perspective view of an example bacon 1300 resting in a bacon support 206 of the spark extinguisher top assembly 112 of an example wood-burning stove 150 having a spark extinguisher 100. The rod 1320 of the bacon 1300 rests in the support 206. In one example, the support 206 may include triangular, circular, elliptical, or other sized and shaped recesses to provide gentle retention of the rod 1320 to prevent accidental lateral movement, while providing little or no resistance to intentional movement of the rod 1320 or the bacon 1300. In this example, the bacon 1300 rests in the support 206 of the top assembly 112. However, the bacon 1300 may also rest in the support of the base assembly 101.

[0077] Figure 18 This is a perspective view of an example bacon 1300, which rests in the bacon support portion 206 of the spark extinguisher base assembly 101 of an example wood-burning stove 150 having a spark extinguisher 100, while being held by a user. Similarly, the rod 1320 of the bacon 1300 rests in the support portion 206.

[0078] Therefore, it can be seen that, while limiting the escape of sparks from the furnace or fire pit 150 at operating temperatures up to approximately 1350°F (732°C) and repeatedly cycling between ambient and operating temperatures, the spark extinguisher 100 meets a long-standing need in the field by providing a low-cost, lightweight, stampable, high-strength, high-rigidity, and high-airflow two-piece structure that is resistant to dents, warping, and other deformations.

[0079] Various variations of the examples and embodiments described above are possible. For example, the spark extinguisher 100 may be made of a heavier-gauge material to support greater weight, or of a lighter-gauge material to be lighter and more portable. The spark extinguisher 100 may be made in different sizes and / or with different degrees of curvature. The relative lengths, widths, and radii of different components may differ from those presented herein. The various parts of the spark extinguisher 100 may be made by different processes, including casting, forging, sintering, milling, or 3D printing, rather than stamping, or stamping and then forming or folding. The spark extinguisher or its components may be made of different metallic or non-metallic materials, such as ceramics or heat-resistant polymers. The shape of the spark extinguisher 100 may be non-circular, including possible shapes such as elliptical, rectangular, triangular, and rhomboid. The technology described herein can be used to burn firewood, wood chips or pellets, waste wood, paper, cardboard, coal, and other combustible materials. It can be used in, for example, lamps, stoves, fire pits, fireplaces, furnaces, forges, boilers, and other combustion heaters. In some implementations, more than one spark extinguisher 100 may be used, or the spark extinguisher may include additional components that together form the structure described herein (e.g., a three-piece spark extinguisher 100, wherein the top assembly 112 is replaced with a two-piece top assembly 112, or the base assembly 101 is replaced with a two-piece base assembly 101).

[0080] One or both of the stoker 1300 or the removal tool 1200 may be used as fireplace pokers, or to put fuel 160 into the stove or fire pit 150, or to remove or rearrange fuel 160, or for other purposes related to tending the fire or preparing food therewith. An additional tool 1100 may be provided. In some embodiments, the spark extinguisher 100 may be placed directly on the top 152 of the stove or fire pit 150 without the connecting ring 125, or the connecting ring 125 may be in an inverted configuration.

[0081] The logical operations constituting embodiments of the technology described herein are referred to differently as operations, steps, objects, elements, components, or modules. Furthermore, it should be understood that these can be performed in any order unless otherwise expressly stated or the language of the claims inherently requires a specific order.

[0082] References for all directions, such as up, down, inside, outside, upward, downward, left, right, lateral, front, back, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, clockwise, counterclockwise, near, and far, are used for identification purposes to aid the reader in understanding the claimed subject matter and do not impose limitations, particularly on the location, orientation, or use of spark extinguishers. Unless otherwise stated, connection references, such as attachment, coupling, connection, and engagement, will be interpreted broadly and may include intermediate members between sets of elements and relative movement between elements. Therefore, a connection reference does not necessarily mean that two elements are directly connected and fixed to each other. The term "or" should be interpreted as "and / or" rather than "exclusive or". Unless otherwise stated in the claims, the stated values ​​should be interpreted as illustrative only and not restrictive.

[0083] The foregoing specification, examples, and data provide a complete description of the structure and use of exemplary embodiments of the spark extinguisher as defined in the claims. While various embodiments of the claimed subject matter have been described above with a degree of specificity or by reference to one or more individual examples, those skilled in the art can make various modifications to the disclosed embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the claimed subject matter. Other embodiments are also contemplated. All content contained in the foregoing description and all content shown in the accompanying drawings should be construed as illustrative of particular embodiments only and not as limiting. Changes in details or structure may be made without departing from the essential elements of the subject matter as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A spark arrestor for a fire pit, comprising: a base assembly comprising a base ring, a base crown, a mesh side screen, and at least one handle; and a top assembly comprising a top crown, a mesh top screen, and at least one handle; wherein the base assembly is removably assembled to a top of the fire pit such that the base assembly is configured to block sparks or embers generated by the fire pit, and wherein the top assembly is removably assembled to the base crown such that the top assembly is configured to block sparks or embers generated by the fire pit. The base ring, base crown, and top crown are circular, the mesh side screen forms a truncated cone, and the top mesh forms a dome having a radius of curvature greater than a width or diameter of the base ring.

2. The spark quencher of claim 1, wherein, 3. The spark arrestor of claim 1, further comprising at least one indented abutment in the base crown and at least one abutment in the top crown, wherein the at least one abutment of the top crown interacts with the at least one abutment of the base crown to prevent rotation of the top crown relative to the base crown, and the abutments are configured such that a roasting stick can be abutted in the abutments with a proximal end in contact with the ground and a distal end suspended over the fire pit. wherein The at least one handle of the base assembly comprises two handles on the base assembly approximately 180 degrees apart, and wherein the at least one handle of the top assembly comprises two handles on the top assembly approximately 180 degrees apart configured such that a pair of removal tools can hook into the handles and lift one or both of the top assembly or the base assembly in a horizontal orientation.

4. The spark quencher of claim 1, wherein, The base ring, base crown, mesh side screen, at least one handle of the base assembly, top crown, mesh top screen, and at least one handle of the top assembly comprise stainless steel, and 5. The spark quencher of claim 1, wherein, wherein the mesh side screen and the mesh top screen comprise a mesh having between 60% and 90% open space.

6. A spark arrestor assembly for a fire pit, comprising: a base assembly comprising: a base ring defining a lower opening, a base crown defining an upper opening, and a mesh side screen extending between the base ring and the base crown; and a top assembly removably disposable on the base assembly and sized and shaped to cover the upper opening defined by the base crown of the base assembly, the top assembly comprising: a top retaining ring forming a perimeter defining an area of the top assembly, a mesh top screen in the area defined by the perimeter, and wherein at least one of the base assembly and the top assembly comprises a handle. The base assembly comprises at least one handle and the top assembly comprises at least one handle.

7. The spark arrestor assembly of claim 6, wherein, The mesh top screen spans the area defined by the perimeter of the top retaining ring.

8. The spark arrestor assembly of claim 6, wherein, The top retaining ring has substantially the same diameter as the base crown.

9. The spark arrestor assembly of claim 6, wherein, The area of the lower opening is greater than the area of the upper opening, the base assembly has a truncated cone shape.

10. The spark arrestor assembly of claim 6, wherein, 11. The spark arrestor assembly of claim 6, further comprising a removal tool shaped to engage the handles of the first at least two spaced apart locations to provide stability. The removal tool comprises:

12. The spark arrestor assembly of claim 11, wherein, a shaft having a distal end and a proximal end; and a handle at the proximal end of the shaft. A hook disposed at a distal end of the stem, the hook comprising: An elevated curve; Two lowered curves; and An elevated tip.

13. The spark arrestor assembly of claim 6, wherein, The base ring, the base crown, and the top retaining ring are circular. The base ring, the base crown, and the top retaining ring are circular. The base ring, the base crown, and the top retaining ring are circular. The base ring, the base crown, and the top retaining ring are circular. The base ring, the base crown, and the top retaining ring are circular. The base ring, the base

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