Fan-assisted personal heater device

Abstract

A personal heater device, the device comprising: an ignition device configured to generate a spark to ignite a fuel; a combustion position at which the ignited fuel combusts in response to a spark; a battery receiving port configured to receive a battery; a controller; and a fan assembly including a motor electrically coupled to the battery receiving port and controlled by the controller, a fan coupled to an output shaft of the motor, and a passage configured to route an airflow generated by the fan to a location near the combustion location.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to personal heater devices, such as portable personal heater devices. Background Art

[0002] Heating devices are commonly used to warm an environment in cold weather. Traditional heating devices utilize a large duct system integrated into the existing structure to move airflow from a centralized burner to various outlets (ducts) located within the structure. The challenge for personal heating devices is to efficiently generate and distribute heat within a large environment while remaining lightweight and portable enough for the user to carry and freely position.

[0003] A personal heating device with improved thermal efficiency would be advantageous and beneficial. In particular, a portable personal heating device that allows a user to quickly and efficiently warm an environment is desired. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned through practice of the technology according to the present disclosure.

[0005] According to one embodiment, a personal heater device is provided. The personal heater device includes an ignition device configured to generate a spark to ignite a fuel; a combustion location where the ignited fuel burns in response to the spark; a battery receiving port configured to receive a battery; a controller; and a fan assembly including a motor electrically coupled to the battery receiving port and controlled by the controller, a fan coupled to an output shaft of the motor, and a passage configured to route an airflow generated by the fan to a location near the combustion location.

[0006] According to another embodiment, a method of heating a space is provided, the method comprising: adjusting a regulator of a personal heater device to allow fuel to flow from a fuel tank coupled to the personal heater device to a combustion area; igniting the fuel at the combustion area with an ignition device to produce combustion; and activating a fan assembly to drive airflow from an air inlet opening to a diffuser defining the combustion area, wherein the fan assembly is powered by a removable battery coupled to the personal heater device.

[0007] According to another embodiment, a personal heater device is provided. The personal heater device includes a frame; a hydrocarbon fuel source removably coupled to the frame and selectively ignitable by an ignition device of the personal heater device; and a fan driven by a motor that receives power from a removable battery electrically coupled to a removable battery port of the personal heater device, wherein the fan drives an airflow through a location adjacent to the ignited hydrocarbon fuel source to radiate heated air into a nearby environment.

[0008] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims.The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the technology and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the technology. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] With reference to the accompanying drawings, a comprehensive and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof, is set forth in the specification for those skilled in the art, wherein:

[0010] Figure 1 A perspective view from the front of an embodiment of a fan-assisted personal heater device according to aspects of the present disclosure is provided;

[0011] Figure 2 A perspective view from the rear end of an embodiment of a fan-assisted personal heater device according to aspects of the present disclosure is provided;

[0012] Figure 3 A perspective view from the front of the interior components of an embodiment of a fan-assisted personal heater device according to aspects of the present disclosure is provided;

[0013] Figure 4 A perspective view of the interior components of an embodiment of a fan-assisted personal heater device according to aspects of the present disclosure is provided as viewed from the rear end;

[0014] Figure 5 A side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a fan-assisted personal heater device according to aspects of the present disclosure is provided;

[0015] Figure 6 A side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a fan-assisted personal heater device according to aspects of the present disclosure is provided, schematically depicting fluid flow through the personal heater device;

[0016] Figure 7 A side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a fan-assisted personal heater device according to aspects of the present disclosure is provided; and

[0017] Figure 8A flow chart of a method of heating an environment according to aspects of the present disclosure is provided.

[0018] Repeat use of reference characters in the present specification and drawings is intended to represent same or analogous features or elements of the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the present invention, one or more examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation rather than limitation of the present invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that a variety of modifications and variations may be made to the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the present invention. For example, a feature illustrated or described as part of one embodiment may be used together with another embodiment to obtain yet another embodiment. Therefore, it is contemplated that the present invention encompasses such modifications and variations that fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0020] As used herein, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third” may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to indicate the position or importance of each component.

[0021] Typically, a personal heater device (hereinafter referred to as a "heater device") can generate heat to warm an environment such as a living room, a bedroom, an office space, a commercial space, an outdoor area, a campsite, a recreational vehicle (RV), etc. The heater device may include a fuel tank receiving area for receiving a fuel tank. The fuel tank can store combustible hydrocarbon fuels such as combustible gases and / or combustible liquids, which are dispensed from the fuel tank and combusted in a combustion area of ​​the heater device. As a non-limiting example, the combustible hydrocarbon fuel may include liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) such as propane, butane, isobutane, etc. The fuel tank is connected to the combustion area by a regulated conduit. A user can prevent fuel from flowing to the combustion area by adjusting a regulator associated with the conduit. To enhance combustion, the user opens the regulator. Conversely, to reduce combustion, the user closes the regulator. By adjusting the regulator, the user is able to control the temperature of the environment near the heater device.

[0022] The heater device can be fan-assisted. The heater device includes a fan assembly that biases the airflow so that heat from the combustion area and the environment near the heater device is moved (radiated) into the surrounding environment (and possibly moved (radiated) to distant areas within the environment). The fan assembly can include a fan and a motor. The motor can be electric, receiving power from an electrical energy source such as one or more removable and / or rechargeable batteries connected to the heater device. The motor drives the fan to rotate. The fan draws (suctions) atmospheric air from the surrounding environment, moves the air through a passage toward the combustion area, and discharges the air back into the environment. The exhausted air passes through or through the combustion area, so that the temperature of the air exhausted from the heater device is higher than the temperature of the atmospheric air at the inlet. Over time, the cumulative effect of inhaling relatively cool air and exhausting relatively warm air causes the ambient temperature to rise (particularly when the space is a closed or partially closed space). Due to the use of the fan, the warmer air is distributed more quickly from the combustion area to the surrounding environment, so that a more gentle thermal gradient and an increased ambient temperature are formed at a location away from the heater device.

[0023] The heater devices described herein can operate with relatively high efficiency (e.g., fuel consumption rate) and / or better distribute heat within an environment compared to conventional heat sources. Furthermore, the heater devices can be self-contained such that heat generation during use does not require an external fuel source and / or electrical wiring (e.g., an electrical cord extending to a wall outlet).

[0024] A heater device is a personal heater device designed for use by an individual in a desired environment. The heater device can be easily moved between different areas of the same environment or even between different environments. The heater device is completely self-contained and does not require access to an external fuel source and / or power source during use. Alternatively, a rechargeable and refillable power source can be used to power the heater device. In this regard, the heater device can be used in areas where traditional heating devices are not suitable (e.g., outdoor camping or work sites without electricity) and does not require active input of external electricity (e.g., using a power cord connected to an external wall outlet) or active input of an external fuel source (e.g., a gas line connected to a mains supply). The heater device is lightweight and easy to maneuver. In an embodiment, when the fuel source is removed, the heater device weighs less than 100 pounds (lbs), such as less than 75 lbs when the fuel source is removed, such as less than 50 lbs when the fuel source is removed, such as less than 25 lbs when the fuel source is removed. The heater device includes a carrying structure that enables the user to carry the heater device between different environments. The carrying structure may include, for example, a handle. In some embodiments, the heater device may include one or more travel elements, such as wheels, tracks, etc., that allow a user to roll the heater device between different locations.

[0025] Referring now to the accompanying drawings, Figure 1 and Figure 2 1 and 2 are views of a heater device 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. The heater device 100 includes a body 102. The body 102 can form an outer surface of the heater device 100. The body 102 can be formed from a plurality of components coupled together, for example, by one or more threaded or non-threaded fasteners, a snap fit, one or more rivets, or the like. Alternatively, the body 102 can be formed from a single-piece (monolithic) construction. The body 102 can form an outer cover that protects one or more internal components of the heater device 100 from impact and / or thermal temperatures generated during use of the heater device 100.

[0026] The body 102 can generally define a front side 104 and a rear side 106. The front side 104 and the rear side 106 are disposed on opposite sides of the body 102. During use, the heater device 100 can be positioned so that the front side 104 of the body 102 faces the direction in which heated air is desired. A user can adjust the angle of the heater device 100 to direct heat as desired. Adjusting the angle of the heater device 100 can include adjusting the angle of the entire heater device 100, rather than merely adjusting the orientation of directional components such as louvers or air outlets, as is the case with conventional ambient heating devices.

[0027] The body 102 further defines a base surface that includes, for example, a first base surface 108 and a second base surface 110. The first base surface 108 can form a surface upon which the heater device 100 can rest during normal use. The second base surface 110 can form a surface upon which the heater device 100 can rest during certain operations, such as when performing maintenance operations (e.g., when removing and / or replacing the fuel tank 126 as described below). The first base surface 108 and the second base surface 110 can be disposed adjacent to each other. In an embodiment, the first base surface 108 and the second base surface 110 are disposed in close proximity to each other. The first base surface 108 and the second base surface 110 are angularly offset from each other. For example, the first base surface 108 and the second base surface 110 can each be placed along a best fit plane, and the best fit planes of the first base surface 108 and the second base surface 110 can be angularly offset from each other by at least 5°, such as at least 10°, such as at least 15°, such as at least 20°, such as at least 25°, such as at least 30°. Thus, the heater device 100 can be swapped between two different orientations based on which of the first base surface 108 and the second base surface 110 supports the heater device 100. In an embodiment, the second base surface 110 is disposed between the first base surface 108 and the front side 104 of the body 102. In this regard, when the heater device 100 is resting via the second base surface 110, the front side 104 of the body 102 can point downward (see, e.g., FIG. 2 ). Figure 7 ).

[0028] The heater device 100 may further include a handle 112. The handle 112 may be coupled to the body 102 and extend upward from the body 102. The handle 112 may be movable relative to the body 102. For example, the handle 112 may be rotatably coupled to the body 102 about a rotation axis 114, such that the handle 112 may be reconfigured between two or more different positions. In the depicted embodiment, the handle 112 is shown in a use configuration, as seen when the handle 112 is being used by a user (or is ready to be used by a user) to reposition (e.g., lift and carry) the heater device 100. The handle 112 may be rotated about the rotation axis 114, for example, in a direction 116, from the use position to a storage position. In the storage position, the handle 112 may cover (hide) one or more user-accessible components of the heater device 100. The one or more user-accessible components of the heater device 100 may include, for example, a regulator 118, an ignition starter 120, a touch screen (not shown), a status indicator (e.g., a multi-color or single-color LED light), and the like. When the handle 112 is in the storage position, the handle 112 can limit access to one or more user-accessible parts. In some embodiments, when the handle 112 arrives at the storage and / or use position, the handle 112 can form a tactile or auditory indication to the user. For example, the handle 112 can form a tactile and / or auditory click when arriving at the storage and / or use position. A ratchet or other structure can suppress further movement of the handle 112 until the user inputs enough force to overcome the ratchet or other similar structures. The body 102 can limit other operator-accessible parts, such as a power selector 122 (e.g., an on / off component), other buttons and / or actuators, etc.

[0029] In an embodiment, the heater device 100 is controlled by one or more user-accessible components, without requiring the user to open a portion of the body 102 and / or without requiring the user to access an interior location of the heater device 100. The user-accessible components can be located at an exterior location of the body 102 and easily adjustable by the user without requiring modification of the body 102. Alternatively, one or more user-accessible components can be accessed only by opening or reaching into the body 102. For example, a secondary (e.g., backup or emergency) regulator can be located in the body 102 and accessible only when the body 102 is open.

[0030] In some embodiments, a user can control the heater device 100 using a user device, such as a smart device (e.g., a smartphone, tablet, personal computer, etc.). For example, the heater device 100 can include a receiver 101 (e.g., an antenna) that communicates with the user device. The user device can run an application that executes a program that allows the user to adjust the heater device 100. For example, using the user device, the user can select between different operating modes (high, low, off, on), different temperatures (high, low, medium, or an exact temperature (e.g., 95 degrees)), different fuel usage rates (eco, boost, etc.), and the like. The user device can also display information to the user, such as the remaining fuel level, the estimated time until refueling, the status of the onboard electrical system or power storage device, the current temperature of the heater device and / or the environment, the expected temperature of the environment, warnings, and other status information. Alternatively or in addition, the heater device 100 can include an onboard user display that provides information to the user. The onboard user display can be located, for example, on the rear side 106 of the body 102 to reduce heat exposure and extend the operating life of the user display.

[0031] The body 102 can define a receiving area 124 configured to receive a fuel tank 126. The fuel tank 126 can include a reservoir (chamber) in which the fuel is disposed. For example, the fuel tank 126 can include a bottle, a canister, a closed cylinder, etc. The receiving area 124 can be disposed at the rear side 106 of the body 102. The receiving area 124 can be configured to hold the fuel tank 126 in a vertical orientation when the heater device 100 is resting on the first base surface 108, with the fuel outlet located at the top of the receiving area 124.

[0032] The receiving area 124 can be selectively covered by a door 128. The door 128 can be pivotally coupled to the body 102 via an articulated arrangement, such as one or more hinges 129. A handle 130 coupled to the door 128 can allow a user to interact (engage) with the door 128 to move the door 128 between a closed position (as shown) and an open position, in which the fuel tank 126 is accessible. The door 128 can be locked in the closed position by a detent, a lock, a snap fit, or the like. To access the fuel tank 126, the user can reposition the door 128 (e.g., using the handle 130) from the closed position to the open position. In the closed position, the door 128 can protect the fuel tank 126 from external debris and prevent human contact with the fuel tank 126, which may be cold or wet due to use. In the open position, a user may interact with fuel tank 126, allowing the user to remove fuel tank 126, replace fuel tank 126, refill fuel tank 126, or troubleshoot issues associated with fuel flow from fuel tank 126. Fuel tank 126 may not be visible from outside of body 102 when door 128 is closed.

[0033] The heater device 100 further includes a diffuser 132. The diffuser 132 can be disposed at the front side 104 of the heater device 100. The diffuser 132 can radiate heat generated by the combustion of the fuel from the fuel tank 126. The radiated heat can be radiated into the environment surrounding the heater device 100. The diffuser 132 can have a shape that allows the radiated heat to be dissipated in a desired direction. For example, the diffuser 132 can have a generally truncated conical shape with sidewalls 134 protruding outward. The sidewalls 134 can extend from a base 136. The base 136 can have a generally flat shape, a concave shape, etc. The heat generated by the combustion of the fuel can be radiated outward by the sidewalls 134 and the base 136 of the diffuser 132.

[0034] In an embodiment, the base 136 may include a diffusion hole 129 ( Figure 5 ), fuel from the fuel tank 126 can pass through these diffusion holes. The diffusion holes 129 may include discrete passages extending through at least a portion of the base 136. The diffusion holes 129 may also or alternatively include a porous structure through which the fuel can pass. The diffusion holes 129 may be limited to a specific location within the base 136 (e.g., at a central location) or spread across the base 136. The diffusion holes 129 may have the same or different sizes and / or shapes as each other. The fuel passes through the diffusion holes 129 and burns at a location within the volume generally defined by the sidewall 134 of the diffuser 132. The ignition device 137 can be controlled by one or more user-accessible components so that the user can use the user-accessible components to cause ignition of the fuel. For example, the ignition device 137 may include a spark generator that causes the fuel to ignite when surrounded by the fuel. Example spark generators include piezoelectric spark generators, electronic igniters, ignition lamps, etc. The fuel further passes through diffusion holes in the diffuser 132 to maintain combustion and, therefore, the heating capacity of the heater device 100. In other embodiments, the fuel may be routed around the diffuser 132 (e.g., via a fluid conduit extending around the diffuser 132), routed through discrete fluid flow paths of the diffuser 132 (e.g., via a tube inserted through the diffuser 132), etc.

[0035] A shroud 138 extends above the diffuser 132. The shroud 138 may include a top 140 and lateral sidewalls 142 extending downward from the top 140. The shroud 138 may direct heat from the diffuser 132 and further bias the heat in a desired direction. In an embodiment, the shroud 138 is spaced apart from the diffuser 132 and does not contact the diffuser 132. The shroud 138 may be coupled to the heater device 100 via one or more mounting members, such as a flange 144. The flange 144 may extend from the body 102, and the shroud 138 may be coupled to the flange 144 at a location external to the body 102. The shroud 138 may be formed from one or more parts. In an embodiment, the shroud 138 includes a shroud opening 146. The shroud opening 146 may extend through a portion of the sidewalls 142. In an embodiment, the shroud opening 146 may extend through the shroud 138 in a lateral direction from the rear side 106 to the front side 104 of the body 102. Shroud opening 146 may be completely surrounded by portions of sidewall 142, i.e., shroud opening 146 is not a notch, but rather a fully enclosed opening completely defined by sidewall 142. As described below, shroud opening 146 allows airflow through diffuser 132 to further direct and directionally bias heat in a desired direction.

[0036] Over time, the cover 138 may become hot due to combustion at the diffuser 132. To reduce the risk of a user contacting the cover 138 while manipulating the heater device 100, the handle 112 can be spaced apart from the cover 138 (e.g., in a lateral direction) and can be moved to a storage position in a direction generally away from the cover 138, such that in the storage position, the handle 112 does not contact the cover 138 and does not receive significant heat transfer from the diffuser 132. In some embodiments, the cover 138 can include a material that deflects a significant portion of the heat from the diffuser 132. The cover 138 can be lined with a thermal barrier, ventilated, or otherwise configured to mitigate heat transfer to the handle 112.

[0037] In an embodiment, the heater device 100 may further include one or more electrically powered components (as described in more detail below). To accommodate the power requirements of the electrically powered components, the heater device 100 may further include a power source, such as a removable battery 148. The removable battery 148 may be removably received at a battery receiving port 150. In an embodiment, the battery receiving port 150 may be provided on the body 102 in such a manner that the battery 148 may be coupled to the exterior of the body 102. In the depicted embodiment, the battery receiving port 150 is provided along a side wall 152 of the body 102 that extends between the front side 104 and the rear side 106. The battery receiving port 150 is spaced apart from the diffuser 132 so that heat emanating from the diffuser 132 is not readily transferred to the battery receiving port 150 and thus allows for longer use of the heater device 100 without overheating the removable battery 148.

[0038] The removable battery 148 may include a housing and a plurality of battery cells disposed within the housing. The removable battery 148 may further include a plurality of terminals electrically connected to the battery cells and interfaced with complementary terminals of the battery receiving port 150. The removable battery 148 may be a general-purpose battery configured to power additional devices such as string trimmers, chain saws, lawn mowers, blowers, power pruning tools, edge trimmers, and the like. Thus, the removable battery 148 may be used with more devices than just the heater device 100.

[0039] Still refer to Figure 1 The body 102 may further include an air inlet opening 154. In one embodiment, the air inlet opening 154 is disposed along the rear side 106 of the heater device 100. In another embodiment, the air inlet opening 154 may be disposed at a different location on the heater device 100, such as on a side surface between the front side 104 and the rear side 106 of the heater device 100, along the base surfaces 108, 110, etc. In some embodiments, the air inlet opening 154 may include a plurality of air inlet openings 154. Each of the plurality of air inlet openings 154 may be disposed at a different location on the body 102. For example, a first air inlet opening may be disposed at the rear side 106 of the body 102, and a second air inlet opening may be disposed on a different side of the body 102. The air inlet opening 154 may be spaced apart from the diffuser 132 such that, during use of the heater device 100, the temperature of air passing through the air inlet opening 154 is lower than the temperature of air adjacent to the diffuser 132. The air inlet opening 154 may comprise a cutout in the body 102. The cutout may have a generally circular shape.

[0040] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 , depicts an embodiment of the heater device 100 with the body 102 removed. In particular, Figure 3 Depicted as being in Figure 1 Same orientation, and Figure 4 Depicted as being in Figure 2 Same orientation.

[0041] First reference Figure 3, a conduit 156 extends from the fuel tank 126 to the diffuser 132. The conduit 156 allows the fuel to pass from the fuel tank 126 to the diffuser 132 and combust in response to a spark generated by the ignition device 137. The regulator 118 can regulate the flow (e.g., flow rate) of the fuel from the fuel tank 126 through the conduit 156 to the diffuser 132. For example, the regulator 118 can include an adjustable valve such as a ball valve, a wedge gate valve, a butterfly valve, a rising stem gate valve, etc. The regulator 118 can be a manual regulator controlled by manual rotation. Alternatively, the regulator 118 can include an electric regulator with a motor for adjusting the position of the valve and thereby adjusting the fuel flow rate from the fuel tank 126. As depicted, the regulator 118 can be coupled to the conduit 156 so that when the body 102 is removed from the heater device 100, the regulator 118 remains with the conduit 156.

[0042] During use, fuel flows from the fuel tank 126 to the diffuser 132 through the conduit 156 and burns to generate heat. Over time, the area surrounding the heater device 100 continues to heat up at a faster rate than the surrounding area. In other words, the combustion creates a localized thermal gradient, and the environment gradually heats up according to this localized thermal gradient. Without airflow to dissipate the heat into the environment, the heat remains localized at the heater device 100, and the thermal gradient at the heater device 100 is sharp.

[0043] To more evenly mix the heat into the environment, the heater device 100 includes a fan system 158 that drives the heat away from the heater device 100 and into the environment. The fan system 158 includes a motor 160 (e.g., a variable speed DC motor) having an output shaft that is rotatably driven by activation of the motor 160. The motor 160 can be electrically coupled to the battery 148 to draw power therefrom. In an embodiment, the heater device 100 can further include a controller 162 having a processor and memory that controls the power drawn from the battery 148 to the motor 160. For example, the processor can execute instructions stored in the memory that cause the motor 160 to operate within a specified operating threshold or condition in response to a user activating the fan system 158. In addition, the controller 162 can cause the motor 160 to adjust its speed in response to a user setting the speed of the fan assembly 158.

[0044] The motor 160 can be coupled to a frame 161 of the heater device 100. The motor 160 is further coupled to a fan 164. The fan 164 can be an axial or radial fan, such as an involute fan. In the depicted embodiment, the fan 164 is a radial fan configured to drive airflow in a radial direction relative to the axis of rotation. The fan 164 can define a plurality of blades 166. The blades 166 can be staggered and curved rotationally about the axis of rotation to generate a desired airflow A in response to activation of the motor 160.

[0045] The fan 164 can be disposed in a cavity 168 that is at least partially defined by the body 102 or another portion of the heater device 100. The cavity 168 can be shaped to accommodate the fan 164. For example, the cavity 168 can have a disc shape. The air inlet opening 154 is disposed adjacent to the cavity 168, such as coaxially with the output shaft of the motor 160. A passage 170 extends from the cavity 168 toward the diffuser 132. The passage 170 can be defined by a tubular structure 173 through which the airflow A can pass. In an embodiment, the tubular structure 173 has a continuous (uninterrupted) sidewall so that all or substantially all of the airflow A passes from the cavity 168 to the outlet opening 172. The continuous sidewall has no openings that allow the airflow A to escape from the passage 170. In an embodiment, the tubular structure 173 can be part of the body 102 or at least partially defined by the body. For example, an inner portion 174 (e.g., an inner portion 174) of the tubular structure 173 can be formed by the body 102. Figure 4 174, the tubular structure 173 may be defined by a non-body portion of the heater device 100, with the outer portion of the tubular structure 173 being formed by the body 102. When the body 102 is coupled to the inner portion 174, the tubular structure 173 becomes continuous (uninterrupted) such that all or substantially all of the airflow A passes to the outlet opening 172.

[0046] The tubular structure 173 can extend in a generally linear direction over at least a majority of its length. For example, as depicted, the tubular structure 173 extends vertically from the cavity 168 toward the outlet opening 172. The tubular structure 173 can begin at or near the regulator 118 and extend toward the front side 104 ( Figure 1 ) is bent so that the outlet opening 172 faces the front side 104 (ie, the direction of the airflow A at the outlet opening 172 is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the front side 104).

[0047] In some embodiments, the outlet opening 172 may be positioned adjacent to the hood opening 146. In an embodiment, the outlet opening 172 may be positioned immediately adjacent to the hood opening 146. Airflow A may pass through the outlet opening 172 and directly enter the hood opening 146 to circulate within the environment. In another embodiment, the tubular structure 173 and the hood 138 are directly or indirectly connected or integrally formed, such that airflow A passes from the tubular structure 173 to the hood 138 without any gaps therebetween that would allow airflow A to escape. In other embodiments, the outlet opening 172 may be separated from the hood opening 146 by a gap 176. The gap 176 may separate the tubular structure 173 from the hood 138. In an embodiment, the length of the gap 176 measured between the outlet opening 172 and the hood opening 146 may be at least 0.5 inches (12.5 millimeters (mm)), such as at least 1 inch (25 mm), such as at least 2 inches (50 mm), or such as at least 3 inches (75 mm). At least some of the airflow A may bridge the gap 176 and enter the hood opening 146. Airflow A can then pass through the hood 138, move toward the diffuser 132, and then dissipate into space in a direction 180. As airflow A moves from the outlet opening 172, through the hood opening 146, and past the diffuser 132, heat from the combustion at the diffuser 132 is transferred to the airflow A, thereby increasing the temperature of the airflow A. As a result, airflow A is hotter after passing through the diffuser 132 in the direction 180 (e.g., at or near location 182) than when airflow A enters the cavity 168 through the air inlet opening 154 (e.g., at or near location 184). In an embodiment, the airflow A at the location 182 may be at least 0.1° Fahrenheit (F) hotter than at the location 184 (i.e., the thermal gradient between the location 182 and the location 184 may be at least 0.1° F), such as at least 0.25° F hotter, such as at least 0.5° F hotter, such as at least 1° F hotter, such as at least 2° F hotter, such as at least 5° F hotter, such as at least 7.5° F hotter, such as at least 10° F hotter. During extended combustion, the diffuser 132 may become even hotter, causing the airflow A at the location 182 to be further heated compared to the airflow A at the location 184 near the air inlet opening 154.

[0048] In an embodiment, controller 162 may control fan assembly 158 based on (e.g., in response to) the temperature at diffuser 132 or another location. For example, as diffuser 132 becomes warmer over extended use, the intensity of airflow A may increase due to the diffuser 132's thermal mass storing a greater amount of heat. Therefore, as the temperature of diffuser 132 increases, the intensity (e.g., volumetric flow rate) of airflow A may increase. Controller 162 may receive temperature data (e.g., temperature data associated with diffuser 132 determined by a thermometer) and adjust fan assembly 158, such as the speed of motor 160, in response thereto. As a non-limiting example, controller 162 may include a lookup table stored in memory. The lookup table may include a plurality of motor 160 operating speeds, each associated with a different temperature. Controller 162 (and more specifically, a processor associated with controller 162) may compare the measured temperature with the lookup table to determine the motor 160 operating speed and then control motor 160 accordingly.

[0049] In an embodiment, the heater device 100 can be configured to enter a startup program when the heater device 100 starts from a cold start. In the startup program, the rate of the airflow A through the tubular structure 173 can be minimum (or even zero) at startup and immediately after startup. In this regard, the diffuser 132 can begin to warm up. When the measured temperature (for example, of the diffuser 132) reaches a threshold condition, the fan assembly 158 can be started by the controller 162 to generate airflow A or increase to increase the flow rate of airflow A. The user can, for example, use one of the user-accessible components or by wirelessly communicating with the controller 162 or by a user device connected by wire to set the maximum rate of airflow A. The user can also change one or more operating parameters of the heater device 100, such as a cold start program, a lookup table number and adjustment, etc. Although the user can change these parameters using the user-accessible components, it may be easier for the user to change the parameters at the user device.

[0050] Figure 5 and Figure 6 Depicts the Figure 1 1-1 in FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional side view of the heater device 100 as viewed from line 1-1 in FIG. Figure 5 The heater device 100 is shown as viewed with the motor 160 in an off (non-activated) state, and Figure 6 The heater device 100 is shown as viewed with the motor 160 in an on (activated) state to drive the air flow A through the heater device 100 .

[0051] First reference Figure 5, depicts a tubular structure 173 where the body 102 is joined to an inner portion 174 to complete the continuous tubular structure 173. The tubular structure 173 is in continuous communication with the cavity 168 and the fan 164 when the motor 160 is on and when the motor 160 is off. The tubular structure 173 extends from the cavity 168 toward the handle 112 and completes a turn to face the front side 104 of the body 102 at a vertical height (a position in the vertical direction) below the handle 112. Figure 6 , airflow A exits the cavity 168 under the biasing force generated by the fan 164 and travels through the tubular structure 173 before reaching the outlet opening 172. A portion of the airflow A bridges the gap 176 between the outlet opening 172 and the hood opening 146 and enters the heating volume 186 disposed between the diffuser 132 and the hood 138. The diffuser 132 can restrict (throttle) the airflow within the heating volume 186, providing additional time for the airflow A to mix with and absorb heat from the diffuser 132, thereby further heating the airflow A. In an embodiment, the sidewall 134 of the diffuser 132 can define an outer surface 135 toward which the airflow A passes.

[0052] After passing through the heating volume 186, the airflow A is pushed over the diffuser 132 into the environment in the direction 180. Heat from the combustion at the diffuser 132 also moves outward away from the heater device 100, as shown by lines 188A, 188B, and 188C. At least some of the heat shown by lines 188A, 188B, and 188C can be absorbed by the airflow A moving in the direction 180. Thus, the airflow A can continue to heat even after passing through the heating volume 186.

[0053] Some airflow A may escape through gap 176 before being heated by diffuser 132. In some cases, this escape of airflow through gap 176 may be advantageous. For example, airflow A escaping through gap 176 may approach diffuser 132 before escaping from gap 176 and may therefore exhibit an elevated temperature compared to airflow A entering air inlet opening 154. This may be desirable, for example, if a user wishes to heat the space above heater device 100. In this case, airflow A is heated in direction 180 and in a direction above heater device 100.

[0054] In other embodiments, in the case where the user does not want the airflow A to escape at the gap 176, a connecting structure 190 can be installed at the gap 176. The connecting structure 190 may include a hollow body 192 that defines a passage 194 through which the airflow A can pass. The passage 194 can be shaped to accommodate the airflow A leaving the outlet opening 172. For example, the passage 194 can have the same or substantially similar cross-sectional shape as the passage 170 of the tubular structure 173. The connecting structure 190 can directly connect the outlet opening 172 and the hood opening 146 so that the airflow cannot escape from the gap 176 or substantially prevent the airflow from escaping from the gap. The connecting structure 190 can be installed, for example, by translating the connecting structure 190 laterally to a position in the gap 176 and fixing the connecting structure 190 in place by an attachment device (such as a fastener, adhesive, snap fit, interference fit, etc.). Once in place between the outlet opening 172 and the hood opening 146 , the connecting structure 190 may bridge the gap 176 , thereby forming a tubular passage for the air flow A to reach the heating volume 186 .

[0055] After the fuel tank 126 is depleted (emptied), the user may want to replace the fuel tank 126 or refill the fuel tank 126 to allow further use of the heater device 100. In an embodiment, the user can open the door 128 ( Figure 2 ) to expose the fuel tank 126. The user can remove the fuel tank 126 from the conduit 156 ( Figure 3 and Figure 4 ) unscrew or otherwise remove the fuel tank 126. The user can then remove the fuel tank 126 from the heater device 100 and replace the filled fuel tank 126 for further use. In some cases, the user must rotate the heater device 100 to remove the fuel tank 126. For example, as described above, the base surface can include a first base surface 108 and a second base surface 110. Before removing the fuel tank 126, the heater device 100 can be moved from the first base surface 108 to the second base surface 110. Figure 7 As depicted, with the heater device 100 resting via the second base surface 110, the fuel tank 126 can be slid out of the heater device 100 in direction 196. In the event that removal of the fuel tank 126 in direction 196 (rather than direction 198) is desired, this would require repositioning the heater device 100 onto the second base surface 110 prior to removing the fuel tank 126. This prevents a user from accidentally removing the fuel tank 126 while the heater device 100 is on (i.e., actively providing heating).

[0056] Figure 8 A flow chart of a method 800 for heating an environment according to an example embodiment is depicted. In general, reference will be made to a method comprising Figures 1 to 7 The method 800 is described with reference to the system of the heater device 100. Figure 8 For the purposes of illustration and discussion, the steps are depicted as being performed in a particular order, but the methods discussed herein are not limited to any particular order or arrangement. Using the disclosure provided herein, one skilled in the art will understand that the steps of the methods disclosed herein may be omitted, rearranged, combined, and / or adjusted in various ways without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0057] Method 800 may include adjusting 802 a regulator of a personal heater device to allow fuel to flow from a fuel tank coupled to the personal heater device to a combustion area. Adjusting 802 may be performed manually or using a computer-controlled actuator (motor). In some embodiments, adjusting 802 the regulator may include adjusting multiple regulators, such as a main regulator and a backup (emergency) regulator. Adjusting 802 the regulator may be performed to allow fuel to flow to the combustion area. Prior to adjusting 802 the regulator, fuel flow to the combustion area may be prevented. Thus, a user may prevent combustion by maintaining the regulator in a non-adjusted (off) state. In the off state, fuel flow to the combustion area is prevented.

[0058] Method 800 may further include igniting 804 the fuel in the combustion zone to produce combustion. Ignition 804 of the fuel may be performed using an ignition device. The ignition device may include, for example, a piezoelectric device that generates a spark. In some embodiments, ignition 804 of the fuel may occur automatically, for example, in response to adjusting 802 a regulator from a closed state to an open state. For example, the regulator or a conduit regulated by the regulator may include a detection device that notifies a controller when fuel is flowing. In response, the controller may initiate activation of the ignition device. In other embodiments, ignition 804 of the fuel may be performed manually. For example, a user may activate a user-accessible component to activate the ignition device.

[0059] Method 800 may further include activating 806 a fan assembly to drive airflow from an air inlet opening of the personal heater device to a diffuser defining a combustion zone. Activating 806 the fan assembly may be performed before or after the fuel is ignited 804. In some cases, activating 806 the fan assembly may be performed automatically, for example, in response to igniting 804 the fuel or in response to a specific condition (e.g., the combustion zone reaches a specified temperature, a timer countdown that begins when the fuel is ignited 804 completes, etc.). The fan assembly includes a fan driven by a motor powered by a removable battery coupled to the personal heater device. In some embodiments, activating 806 the fan assembly is not performed when the removable battery is not actively coupled to the personal heater device. In other embodiments, activating 806 the fan assembly is not performed when the removable battery is coupled to the personal heater device but the remaining power (charge) of the removable battery is below a specified threshold condition (e.g., below a specified charge level, such as below 5%).

[0060] In some embodiments, the heater device can be configured to adjust the fan assembly to adjust the speed of the fan. For example, when the heater device begins a cold start, the temperature at the diffuser may be below a critical threshold. After heating for a period of time, the temperature at the diffuser increases, thereby reaching the critical threshold, and the fan assembly is started 806. The fan can begin to rotate at a first speed in response to the start-up. As the temperature at the diffuser continues to increase, the speed of the fan can increase. For example, when the temperature reaches a second critical threshold, the fan can rotate at a second speed. In addition, when the temperature reaches a third critical threshold, the fan can rotate at a third speed. In another embodiment, the speed of the fan can be adjusted (changed) according to the temperature (e.g., proportionally to the temperature). Other control protocols are also possible without departing from the present disclosure.

[0061] Embodiments of the heater device 100 provided herein can provide improved thermal efficiency. For example, the fan 164 can be operated by the motor 160 to improve air flow through the passageway, such as for heat distribution, thereby allowing the user to obtain improved heat generation and reception, improved heat distribution, and improved combustion efficiency (e.g., reduced fuel use).

[0062] Other aspects of the invention are provided by one or more of the following embodiments:

[0063] Example 1. A personal heater device comprising: an ignition device configured to generate a spark to ignite a fuel; a combustion location at which the ignited fuel burns in response to the spark; a battery receiving port configured to receive a battery; a controller; and a fan assembly comprising: a motor electrically coupled to the battery receiving port and controlled by the controller, a fan coupled to an output shaft of the motor, and a passage configured to route an airflow generated by the fan to a location near the combustion location.

[0064] Embodiment 2. The personal heater device of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the personal heater device further comprises a diffuser through which the fuel moves before reaching the combustion location, and wherein the airflow passes through the diffuser after exiting the passageway.

[0065] Embodiment 3. The personal heater device of any one or more of the embodiments, further comprising a hood disposed above the diffuser, wherein the hood comprises a hood opening in fluid communication with the outlet opening of the passage, and wherein airflow from the passage passes through the hood opening to enter a heating volume disposed between the hood and the diffuser before moving into the surrounding environment.

[0066] Embodiment 4. A personal heater device as described in any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the personal heater device includes a fuel tank receiving area, the fuel tank receiving area being configured to removably accommodate a fuel tank storing the fuel, and wherein the fuel tank receiving area is selectively covered by a hinged door.

[0067] Embodiment 5. The personal heater device of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the personal heater device further comprises a body defining a base surface, and wherein the base surface comprises a first base surface and a second base surface angularly offset from the first base surface by at least 10°.

[0068] Embodiment 6. The personal heater device of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the motor is a variable speed motor, and wherein the controller is configured to control the speed of the motor in response to a measured temperature of the heater device.

[0069] Embodiment 7. The personal heater device of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the personal heater device further comprises a handle rotatable between a use position and a storage position.

[0070] Embodiment 8. The personal heater device of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the airflow enters the passageway from a rear side of the personal heater device and exits the passageway from a front side of the personal heater device.

[0071] Example 9. A method for heating a space, the method comprising: adjusting a regulator of a personal heater device to allow fuel to flow from a fuel tank connected to the personal heater device to a combustion area; igniting the fuel at the combustion area with an ignition device to produce combustion; starting a fan assembly to drive an airflow from an air inlet opening to a diffuser defining the combustion area, wherein the fan assembly is powered by a removable battery connected to the personal heater device.

[0072] Embodiment 10. The method of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein starting the fan assembly comprises: starting the motor of the personal heater device to rotate so that the radial fan is driven by the motor and drives airflow to the combustion area.

[0073] Embodiment 11. A method as described in any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the airflow is driven through a heating volume disposed between the hood and the diffuser, and wherein the controller of the personal heater device is configured to regulate the airflow through the heating volume based at least in part on a temperature measured at the personal heater device.

[0074] Example 12. The method of any one or more of the embodiments further comprises: repositioning the heater device from being supported by the first base surface of the personal heater device to being supported by the second base surface; and removing the fuel tank from the personal heater device after repositioning the heater device to be supported by the second base surface.

[0075] Embodiment 13. The method of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein adjusting the regulator is performed manually.

[0076] Example 14. The method of any one or more of the embodiments, further comprising: connecting the removable battery to a removable battery port of the personal heater device; fluidly connecting the fuel tank to a conduit of the personal heater device, the conduit being in fluid communication with the combustion area; and moving the personal heater device to a desired area before igniting the fuel, wherein moving the personal heater device comprises moving a single unit to the desired area.

[0077] Example 15. A personal heater device comprising: a frame; a hydrocarbon fuel source removably coupled to the frame and selectively ignitable by an ignition device of the personal heater device; and a fan driven by a motor that receives power from a removable battery electrically coupled to a removable battery port of the personal heater device, wherein the fan drives an airflow through a location adjacent to the ignited hydrocarbon fuel source to radiate a stream of heated air into a nearby environment.

[0078] Embodiment 16. The personal heater device of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the hydrocarbon fuel source comprises a fuel tank storing hydrocarbon fuel, and wherein the fuel tank is removable from the personal heater device.

[0079] Embodiment 17. The personal heater device of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the personal heater device further comprises a handle rotatable between a use position and a storage position.

[0080] Embodiment 18. The personal heater device of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the personal heater device further comprises a body defining a base surface, and wherein the base surface comprises a first base surface and a second base surface angularly offset from the first base surface by at least 10°.

[0081] Embodiment 19. The personal heater device of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the personal heater device further comprises a diffuser through which the fuel moves before reaching the combustion location, and wherein the airflow passes through an outer sidewall of the diffuser.

[0082] Embodiment 20. The personal heater device of any one or more of the embodiments, wherein the personal heater device weighs less than 75 pounds.

[0083] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. If these other examples include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements that do not differ substantially from the literal language of the claims, then these other examples are intended to be included within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A personal heater device comprising: an ignition device configured to generate a spark to ignite the fuel; a combustion location at which the ignited fuel burns in response to the spark; a battery receiving port configured to receive a battery; Controller; as well as A fan assembly, the fan assembly comprising: a motor electrically coupled to the battery receiving port and controlled by the controller; a fan coupled to an output shaft of the motor; and A passageway is configured to route airflow generated by the fan to a location proximate the combustion location.

2. The personal heater device of claim 1, wherein: The personal heater device further includes a diffuser through which the fuel moves before reaching the combustion location, and wherein the airflow generated by the fan passes through the diffuser.

3. The personal heater device of claim 2, further comprising a cover disposed adjacent the diffuser, wherein: The hood includes a hood opening in fluid communication with the outlet opening of the passageway, and wherein airflow passes from the passageway through the hood opening to enter a heating volume disposed between the hood and the diffuser before moving into a nearby environment.

4. The personal heater device of claim 1, wherein: The personal heater device includes a fuel tank receiving area configured to removably receive a fuel tank storing the fuel, and wherein the fuel tank receiving area is selectively covered by a hinged door.

5. The personal heater device of claim 1, wherein: The personal heater device further includes a body defining a base surface, and wherein the base surface includes a first base surface and a second base surface angularly offset from the first base surface by at least 10°.

6. The personal heater device of claim 1, wherein: The motor is a variable speed motor and wherein the controller is configured to control the speed of the motor in response to the measured temperature of the heater arrangement.

7. The personal heater device of claim 1, wherein: The personal heater device further includes a handle that is rotatable between a use position and a storage position.

8. The personal heater device of claim 1, wherein: The airflow enters the passageway from a rear side of the personal heater device and exits the personal heater device at a front side located opposite the rear side.

9. A method for heating an environment, the method comprising: adjusting a regulator of the personal heater device to allow fuel to flow from a fuel tank coupled to the personal heater device to the combustion area; igniting the fuel at the combustion zone with an ignition device to produce combustion; A fan assembly is activated to drive airflow from an air inlet opening to a diffuser defining the combustion area, wherein the fan assembly is powered by a removable battery coupled to the personal heater device.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein: Activating the fan assembly includes starting the motor of the personal heater device to rotate so that the radial fan is driven by the motor and drives airflow to the combustion area.

11. The method of claim 9, wherein: The airflow is driven through a heating volume disposed between the hood and the diffuser, and wherein the controller of the personal heater device is configured to regulate the airflow through the heating volume based at least in part on a temperature measured at the personal heater device.

12. The method of claim 9, further comprising: repositioning the heater device from being supported by the personal heater device via a first base surface to being supported by a second base surface; as well as After repositioning the heater device to be supported via the second base surface, the fuel canister is removed from the personal heater device.

13. The method of claim 9, wherein: Adjustment of this regulator is performed manually.

14. The method of claim 9, further comprising: coupling the removable battery to a removable battery port of the personal heater device; fluidly connecting the fuel tank to a conduit of the personal heater device, the conduit being in fluid communication with the combustion area; and Prior to igniting the fuel, the personal heater device is moved to a desired area, wherein moving the personal heater device includes carrying the personal heater device to the desired area.

15. A personal heater device comprising: frame; a hydrocarbon fuel source removably coupled to the frame and selectively ignitable by an ignition device; as well as a fan driven by a motor that receives power from a removable battery electrically coupled to a removable battery port of the personal heater device, Therein, the fan drives an airflow through a location adjacent to an ignited hydrocarbon fuel source to heat the airflow and move the airflow into a nearby environment.

16. The personal heater device of claim 15, wherein: The hydrocarbon fuel source includes a fuel tank storing hydrocarbon fuel, and wherein the fuel tank is removable from the personal heater device.

17. The personal heater device of claim 15, wherein: The personal heater device further includes a handle that is rotatable between a use position and a storage position.

18. The personal heater device of claim 15, wherein: The personal heater device further includes a body defining a base surface, and wherein the base surface includes a first base surface and a second base surface angularly offset from the first base surface by at least 10°.

19. The personal heater device of claim 15, wherein: The personal heater device further includes a diffuser through which the fuel moves before reaching the combustion location, and wherein the airflow passes over an outer side wall of the diffuser.

20. The personal heater device of claim 15, wherein: The personal heater device weighs less than 75 pounds.

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