Burner system with integrated baffle and spaced apart fill ports

Abstract

A burner system includes a reservoir configured to store fuel, a filler coupled to the reservoir and including a fill port, a combustion chamber coupled to the reservoir, and a shutter including a fill cap and a flame arrestor. The shutter is movable between a combustion position in which the combustion chamber is operable to combust fuel stored in the reservoir and a fuel position in which the fill port is available for filling the reservoir with fuel.

Description

[0001] CLAIM OF PRIORITY

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 632,871, filed April 11, 2024, and U.S. Non-Provisional Application No. 18 / 639,335, filed April 18, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a burner system, and more particularly, to a liquid fuel burner system for a flame device. BACKGROUND

[0004] Combustion systems (e.g., fireplace burners, table-top burners) are often used to generate heat or create a particular ambiance by burning fuel. The burner burns fuel that is wicked or vaporized from a reservoir. To fill the reservoir, a user pours liquid fuel (e.g., ethanol) through a combustion chamber into the reservoir. However, in some cases, it can be difficult to determine whether an existing flame has been completely extinguished prior to pouring. Even when a separate snuffer is used to extinguish the flame, the snuffer must be removed from the burner to expose the burner prior to refueling. Thus, there is a need for a burner system that is simpler in structure and more effective in use. SUMMARY

[0005] Examples of the present disclosure are summarized by the claims that follow the description.

[0006] According to some examples, a burner system can include a reservoir configured to store fuel, a filler coupled to the reservoir and including a fill port, a combustion chamber coupled to the reservoir, and a shutter including a fill cover and a snuffer, the shutter movable between a combustion position in which the combustion chamber is operable to burn fuel stored in the reservoir and a fuel position in which the fill port is available to fill the reservoir with fuel.

[0007] In some examples, in the combustion position, the combustion chamber can be exposed and the fill cover can cover the fill port of the filler. In the fuel position, the fill port can be exposed and the snuffer can cover the combustion chamber.

[0008] In some examples, the burner system can further include a plug disposed at least partially within the filler, and in the combustion position, the shutter can prevent the plug from being removed from the filler. The shutter can be an integrated shutter that is not separable from the burner system.

[0009] In some examples, the burner system can further include a base plate positioned above the reservoir, and the shutter can be positioned between the base plate and the combustion chamber. The fill cap can be a handle configured to slide through a handle opening defined by the base plate during movement between the combustion position and the fuel position. The flameout can slide against a lip of the combustion chamber during movement between the combustion position and the fuel position. The fill cap can be a handle including a distally facing stop surface engageable with the base plate or the reservoir to prevent distal movement of the shutter beyond the combustion position. The flameout can include a proximally facing stop surface engageable with the base plate or the reservoir to prevent proximal movement of the shutter beyond the fuel position.

[0010] According to some examples, a method for operating a burner system including a reservoir configured to store fuel, a filler coupled to the reservoir and including a fill port, and a combustion chamber coupled to the reservoir is provided. The method can include moving a shutter including a fill cap and a flameout between a combustion position in which the combustion chamber is operable to combust fuel stored in the reservoir and a fuel position in which the fill port is available to fill the reservoir with fuel.

[0011] In some examples, moving the shutter between the combustion position and the fuel position can include moving the shutter from the combustion position to the fuel position, thereby exposing the combustion chamber and covering the fill port of the filler by the fill cap. Moving the shutter between the combustion position and the fuel position can include moving the shutter from the fuel position to the combustion position, thereby exposing the fill port and covering the combustion chamber by the flameout.

[0012] In some examples, the method can further include integrating the shutter with the burner system during assembly of the burner system, and the integrated shutter can be disposed inseparable from the burner system. Assembling the burner system can include positioning a base plate above the reservoir and positioning the shutter between the base plate and the combustion chamber.

[0013] In some examples, moving the shutter between the combustion position and the fuel position can include sliding the fill cap through an opening defined by the base plate. Moving the shutter between the combustion position and the fuel position can include sliding the flame arrestor against a lip of the combustion chamber. Moving the shutter between the combustion position and the fuel position can include engaging a distally facing stop surface of the fill cap with the base plate or the reservoir to prevent the shutter from moving distally beyond the combustion position. Moving the shutter between the combustion position and the fuel position can include engaging a proximally facing stop surface of the shutter with the base plate or the reservoir to prevent the shutter from moving proximally beyond the fuel position.

[0014] According to some examples, a burner system can include a reservoir configured to store fuel, a filler coupled to the reservoir and operable to fill the reservoir with fuel, the filler including a fill port, and a combustion chamber coupled to the reservoir and configured to combust fuel stored in the reservoir, wherein the fill port is spaced apart from the combustion chamber.

[0015] In some examples, the filler can include a fill line configured to introduce fuel into the reservoir through an inlet port in the reservoir, wherein the inlet port is spaced apart from the combustion chamber.

[0016] In some examples, the burner system can further include a shield configured to block heat generated at the combustion chamber, wherein the shield is positioned at least partially between the combustion chamber and the fill port spaced apart from the combustion chamber. The burner system can further include a base plate positioned at least partially above the reservoir, the fill port being coupled to a fill opening defined by the base plate. The fill opening can be shaped to funnel fuel into the fill port.

[0017] In some examples, the filler can include a flame arrestor configured to prevent a flame from spreading from the combustion chamber to the fill port of the filler. The filler can include a one-way valve configured to prevent fuel from flowing from the reservoir toward the fill port. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0018] The accompanying drawings illustrate examples of the systems, devices, and methods disclosed herein and, together with the description, function to explain the principles of the disclosure.

[0019] Figure 1 Perspective view of a combustion system in accordance with examples of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of a burner system according to an example of this disclosure.

[0021] Figure 3 An exploded perspective view of the various parts of a burner system according to an example of this disclosure.

[0022] Figure 4 An exploded perspective view of the various parts of a burner system according to an example of this disclosure.

[0023] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of a burner system in the combustion position according to an example of this disclosure.

[0024] Figure 6 A perspective view of a burner system in the fuel position according to an example of this disclosure.

[0025] Figure 7 This is a perspective cross-sectional view of a burner system according to an example of this disclosure.

[0026] Figure 8 This is a perspective cross-sectional view of a burner system according to an example of this disclosure.

[0027] Figure 9 This is a side cross-sectional view of a burner system according to an example of this disclosure.

[0028] Figure 10 A flowchart illustrating a method for operating a burner system according to an example of this disclosure.

[0029] These figures can be better understood by referring to the following detailed description. Detailed Implementation

[0030] To facilitate understanding of the principles of this disclosure, reference will now be made to the examples shown in the accompanying drawings, and specific language will be used in their description. However, it should be understood that this is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Any changes and further modifications to the described apparatus, instruments, and methods, as well as any further applications of the principles of this disclosure, fall entirely within the scope commonly conceived by one skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains. Furthermore, while this disclosure describes certain elements or features in detail with respect to one or more embodiments or drawings, such detailed descriptions will not be repeated when these elements or features appear in subsequent drawings. It is entirely contemplated that the features, components, and / or steps described with respect to one or more embodiments or drawings may be combined with features, components, and / or steps described with respect to other examples or drawings of this disclosure. For simplicity, in some cases, the same or similar reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or similar components.

[0031] This disclosure proposes a burner system with several advantages. Among other features, the burner system includes a baffle and a filler. In some examples, the baffle is integrated with the burner system. In some examples, the filler includes isolated fill ports. The examples herein enable separate and spaced-apart fill ports from the combustion chamber, which simplifies product use, improves user experience, prevents users from losing or misplacing components (such as independent flameout devices), and offers other advantages.

[0032] Figure 1 A combustion system 100 is shown. The combustion system 100 includes a frame 102 and a burner system 104. The frame 102 may include a base 106, a main body 108, and a ventilation section 110. The components of the burner system 104 will be... Figures 2-9 The following describes the details further. A body 108 may be mounted on top of a base 106, and a vent 110 may be mounted on top of the body 108. The base 106 provides structural support to the body 108 using one or more legs. In some examples, legs are not required, and the body 108 is mounted on an existing surface, such as a table or floor. The body 108 is configured to hold and support a burner system 104. In some examples, the burner system 104 is housed within the body 108 such that the lower portion of the burner system 104 extends into the base 106, while the upper portion of the burner system 104 is exposed within and outside the heating compartment 111 defined by the body 108.

[0033] When fuel is burned, the burner system 104 produces one or more flames 112 that heat the heating chamber 111. The heating chamber 111 temporarily retains the heat generated by the flames 112 before some heat escapes through the vent 110 or the opening 114 defined by the body 108. The heat and light escaping from the opening 114 can be used for various purposes, including heating (e.g., convective heat, radiant heat) and creating an atmosphere. In some examples, the opening 114 faces forward of the combustion system 100. The vent 110 regulates and controls the heat retained within the heating chamber 111 by allowing excess heat to escape upwards. Additionally, the opening 114 and the vent 110 work together to allow oxygen to enter the combustion system 100, thereby promoting sustained combustion.

[0034] For illustrative purposes, Figure 2 The components of a burner system (e.g., burner system 104) are shown exploded outwards. In some examples, burner system 104 includes a base plate 116, a baffle 118, a combustion chamber 120, a baffle 122, a reservoir 124, a filler 126, a flame arrester 128, a plug 130, a guard 132, a support 134, and other components such as a fastener 136. Figure 3An exploded perspective view is provided to illustrate the various parts of a burner system (e.g., burner system 104) according to an example of this disclosure. In particular, Figure 3 The combustion chamber 120, baffle 122, reservoir 124, filler 126, flame arrester 128, and plug 130 are shown. Figure 4 An exploded perspective view is provided to illustrate the various parts of a burner system (e.g., burner system 104) according to an example of this disclosure. In particular, Figure 4 The combustion chamber 120, baffle 118, base plate 116, and protective member 132 are shown. Reference will now be made to... Figures 2-4 Describe all these components.

[0035] Storage unit 124 is configured to store and hold fuel. For example, storage unit 124 can store ethanol or other types of fuels, such as natural gas, propane, diesel, heating oil, biofuels, coal, and solid waste. Storage unit 124 can serve as a base for burner system 104 and can support other components. For example, such as... Figure 2 As shown, other components of the burner system 104 are positioned on top of the reservoir 124. Although the reservoir 124 is shown as rectangular, it can be of any shape or size. The reservoir 124 can be made of a variety of materials, including metals and other heat-resistant materials.

[0036] Storage 124 includes bottom 137 (see Figure 7 and Figure 8 The reservoir 124 has multiple vertically extending sidewalls 138. In some examples, the reservoir 124 may have an opening at the top to accommodate a baffle 122 and a combustion chamber 120. The reservoir 124 may include an inlet port 140 for introducing fuel into the reservoir 124. The inlet port 140 may be located on one or more of the sidewalls 138. The inlet port 140 may be threaded to mate with threads on the filler 126.

[0037] In some examples, fuel is introduced directly into the reservoir 124 through inlet port 140, without using filler 126. In other examples, such as Figure 4 As shown, fuel is introduced into inlet port 140 via filler 126 connected to reservoir 124. When filler 126 is connected to reservoir 124 via inlet port 140, it is advantageous that inlet port 140 is located on the bottom portion of sidewall 138, such that inlet port 140 is vertically positioned below combustion chamber 120. The low-lying inlet port 140 allows gravity to allow fuel to flow from filler 126 into inlet port 140. It should be understood that in some examples, filler 126 may be suspended or hung in the top of reservoir 124, and inlet port 140 may not be present.

[0038] The filler 126 is used to fill fuel into the reservoir 124. The filler 126 can be curved and made of various materials, including various metals and plastics. In some examples, the filler 126 can be sealed by a plug 130 to prevent fuel from entering through the filler 126 or otherwise flowing into the reservoir 124. The filler 126 may also include a flame arrester 128 disposed therein to prevent flame 112 from spreading from the reservoir 124 via the filler 126. The flame arrester 128 can be made of metal or other heat-resistant materials. The filler described herein offers several advantages, which will be described in further detail below, including spaced-out filling ports.

[0039] like Figure 3 As shown, filler 126 can be coupled to reservoir 124. Filler 126 includes a filling line 142, a filling port 144, and an outlet port 146. Filling port 144 is used to fill reservoir 124 with fuel. Fuel poured or otherwise fed through filling port 144 can flow inside filling line 142 and exit from outlet port 146 to enter reservoir 124 via inlet port 140.

[0040] The filler 126 may include fastening members 148 positioned near the fill port 144 and the outlet port 146. Fastening members 148 may be integrated with or coupled to the fill line 142. Fastening members 148 are configured to secure the filler 126 to the reservoir 124 and / or the base plate 116. Thus, fastening members 148 can be used to secure the filler 126 using press-fit or other fastening techniques. In some examples, one of the fastening members 148 on the filler 126 is press-fitted into or onto an inlet port 140 protruding from the reservoir 124. In other examples, the fastening member 148 is a connecting nut with internal and / or external threads that can engage with corresponding threads on the inlet port 140.

[0041] In some examples, the filler 126 houses a flame arrester 128. The flame arrester 128 is configured to prevent the spread of flame 112 from the combustion chamber 120 to the filling port 144 of the filler 126. In some examples, the flame arrester 128 is located within the filling port 144, while in other examples, the flame arrester 128 may be located in the filling line 142, the outlet port 146, or the fastening member 148. In still other examples, the flame arrester 128 may be located in the inlet port 140 leading to the reservoir 124.

[0042] In some examples, the filler 126 may also accommodate a plug 130. The plug 130 may be at least partially disposed within the filler 126. In this example, the plug 130 is at least partially located within the filler port 144. The plug 130 is used to allow and block passage to the filler port 144. The user can remove the plug from the filler port 144 before pouring fuel into it to fill the reservoir 124. As will be further described below, in certain situations, such as when the flame 112 is burning and exposed, the slidable position of the baffle 118 can block passage to the plug 130. The plug 130 may be made of various materials, including metals and polymers. When the plug 130 is a flexible rubber, the plug 130 is press-fitted to the filler port 144, the fastening member 148, or the filler opening 149 defined by the base plate 116 (see...). Figure 4 )middle.

[0043] In some examples, filler 126 may also accommodate valve 151 (see Figures 7-9 The valve 151 is configured to prevent fuel from flowing from the reservoir 124 toward the filling port 144. The valve 151 may be a one-way valve or valve disc housed within the filling line 142 or other portion of the filler 126. Thus, the valve 151 ensures that any fuel introduced into the system flows toward the reservoir 124 and does not flow back from the filling port 144, even in the event of pressure fluctuations in the system.

[0044] In some examples, baffle 122 is used to improve combustion efficiency, enhance heat transfer, prevent heat loss, stabilize the flame, and / or reduce emissions. Baffle 122 can be placed within reservoir 124 to control the flow of air and gases (such as fuel and oxygen) therein. This promotes efficient mixing of fuel and air, resulting in cleaner and more complete combustion. Another benefit of baffle 122 to burner system 104 is its ability to stabilize the flame 112 produced by the burner system by controlling airflow patterns and reducing the likelihood of flame de-flameout or oscillation. Furthermore, baffle 122 can prevent excessive movement and agitation of any fuel stored within reservoir 124 when burner system 104 is moved.

[0045] Combustion chamber 120 serves as the main combustion zone where fuel is burned to generate heat and form flame 112. Combustion chamber 120 may be connected to reservoir 124. In some examples, combustion chamber 120 is capable of forming flame 112 without emitting smoke, soot, or harmful fumes, thus making burner system 104 suitable for indoor or outdoor use. When combustion chamber 120 burns fuel stored in reservoir 124, the generated heat radiates outward, thereby warming the surrounding area. Furthermore, combustion chamber 120 may be configured to contain the flame 112 generated by burning fuel. Combustion chamber 120 may be shaped and configured such that flame 112 dances and flickers within combustion chamber 120, creating an aesthetically pleasing visual display. Combustion chamber 120 may be made of various materials, including metals (such as metals containing stainless steel), tempered glass, or ceramics. Combustion chamber 120 is configured to contain the flame 112 generated during combustion and to prevent direct contact with the burning fuel, thereby reducing the risk of accidental burns or fuel spills. In this respect, the combustion chamber 120 may be recessed into the reservoir 124, as further discussed in this disclosure.

[0046] Similar to reservoir 124, combustion chamber 120 may have a bottom 150 and multiple vertically extending sidewalls 152. The bottom 150 may be perforated with multiple holes to fluidly connect combustion chamber 120 to reservoir 124. The holes in the bottom 150 of combustion chamber 120 allow fuel, flame 112, and oxygen to flow between reservoir 124, combustion chamber 120, and the environment. The size of the multiple holes can control the size of the formed flame 112.

[0047] Combustion chamber 120 has an opening at least on one side, top, or bottom to define a combustion opening 154. In the illustrated example, the combustion opening 154 is defined at the top of combustion chamber 120. The combustion opening 154 allows oxygen to enter combustion chamber 120 and allows flame 112 and heat to escape from combustion chamber 120. Combustion chamber 120 is shown as rectangular; however, combustion chamber 120 can be of any shape. The shape of combustion chamber 120 can be varied depending on the desired shape of flame 112 and the overall shape of burner system 104. In some examples, multiple combustion chambers 120 are present, and combustion chambers 120 can be circular.

[0048] Combustion chamber 120 is shown recessed or otherwise suspended within reservoir 124 (see, for example, see...). Figures 7-9Combustion chamber 120 may include flanges 157 extending laterally away from combustion chamber 120 in multiple directions. Flanges 157 may rest on the surface of substrate 116 or reservoir 124 to suspend combustion chamber 120. In some examples, flanges 157 may be welded to substrate 116 or reservoir 124 to secure combustion chamber 120 between them. By suspending combustion chamber 120 within reservoir 124, combustion chamber 120 contains flame 112 (except in the upward direction). Additionally, suspending combustion chamber 120 protects the combustion zone from unstable environmental conditions such as wind. Combustion chamber 120 may also define a lip 159 configured to guide baffle 118 during sliding movement. Reference will be made below. Figure 7 Further discussion on the specific characteristics of lip margin 159.

[0049] Baffle 118 can be used to extinguish combustion occurring within combustion chamber 120. Baffle 118 can also be used to allow and prevent fuel from entering filler 126. In some examples, baffle 118 is an integrated baffle that is not detachable from burner system 104 when burner system 104 is assembled. Baffle 118 can be positioned between base plate 116 and combustion chamber 120. The baffles described herein offer several advantages, which will be described in further detail below, including integrated baffles and dual-function baffles.

[0050] In some examples, the baffle 118 includes a handle 156 and an exhaust valve 158. See below for reference. Figure 5 and Figure 6 Further described, the baffle 118 is movable between a combustion position and a fuel position, in which the combustion chamber 120 is operable to burn fuel stored in the reservoir 124, and in which the filling port 144 is available for filling the reservoir 124 with fuel. A handle 156 can be gripped by a user to move the baffle 118 between the combustion position and the fuel position. In some examples, the handle 156 may include or be shaped to include a tab 160 located on a proximal end of the handle 156. The tab 160 makes it easier for a user to grip the handle 156 to push and pull the baffle 118 between the combustion position and the fuel position. The tab 160 may be covered by a grip 161. The grip 161 may be made of a heat-resistant material to ensure that the handle 156 is securely gripped. The grip 161 may also be made of a soft material with a high coefficient of friction, such as rubber or another polymer. In some embodiments, the handle 156 serves as a filling cap that a user may or may not grip. In some embodiments, a filling cap is included on the handle 156. In some embodiments, a filling cap is included on the baffle 118 that is separate from the handle 156, or the filling cap is separate from the baffle 118 and can be operated by moving the baffle 118.

[0051] The substrate 116 serves as a base and / or platform to which other components of the burner system 104 can be mounted or otherwise attached. The substrate 116 is positioned on top of the reservoir 124. The substrate 116 facilitates the assembly and fastening of the various components of the burner system 104 together. The substrate 116 can be made of a robust and durable heat-resistant material, such as stainless steel, aluminum, or a heat-resistant composite material. Materials like these are capable of withstanding the high temperatures generated by combustion occurring in the combustion chamber 120. Depending on the type of combustion system 100 using the burner system 104, the substrate 116 can be used to protect surfaces (e.g., tabletops or floors) from the high temperatures generated and radiated outwards within the combustion chamber 120.

[0052] In some examples, substrate 116 includes an outer plate 162 and an inner plate 164. The outer plate 162 and the inner plate 164 may be made of a single piece of material or may be multiple components joined together. In some examples, the inner plate 164 is made of a material with higher heat resistance than the outer plate 162.

[0053] The inner plate 164 defines a combustion opening 166. The combustion opening 166 in the base plate 116 is aligned with the combustion opening 154 of the combustion chamber 120. The inner plate 164 may also include a plurality of holes 168 that dissipate heat from the burner system 104. In some examples, the shape of the inner plate 164 corresponds to the shape of the reservoir 124. In this way, the inner plate 164 can be stacked on top of the reservoir 124.

[0054] The outer panel 162 extends laterally outward from the inner panel 164. The outer panel 162 has multiple functions. The outer panel 162 may include a plurality of fastening holes 169 configured to receive the fastening member 136. The outer panel 162 may also include one or more slits 170 configured to receive the protective member 132. The outer panel 162 may also include a slot 172 configured to receive a handle 156 of the baffle 118. The slot 172 may be recessed from the top surface 174 of the base plate 116 such that the handle 156 is located below the top surface 174.

[0055] In some examples, substrate 116 defines a handle opening 176. During movement of baffle 118 between the combustion position and the fuel position, handle 156 of baffle 118 can slide along slot 172 and through handle opening 176. In some examples, handle opening 176 is defined by inner plate 164. In other examples, handle opening 176 is defined by outer plate 162. In still other examples, handle opening 176 is defined between inner plate 164 and outer plate 162.

[0056] The protective element 132 is used to reduce the risk of accidental burns. The protective element 132 forms a physical barrier between the flame and any nearby personnel, thereby reducing the chance of direct contact with the high-temperature burner assembly. The protective element 132 may be at least partially positioned between the combustion chamber 120 and the filling port 144. The protective element 132 is configured to block heat generated at the combustion chamber 120. Furthermore, the protective element 132 may help prevent the combustion chamber 120 and the flame 112 generated therefrom from being affected by wind or other environmental factors (such as rain). In some examples, the protective element 132 is positioned on a single side as shown. In other examples, the protective element 132 may be positioned on multiple sides of the combustion chamber 120, or may be curved to at least partially surround the flame 112. The protective element 132 may be shaped to include a cutout 178 so that the protective element 132 can be upright and held within the slit 170. The cutout 178 also provides a gap so that the baffle 118 can slide back and forth between the combustion position and the fuel position. It should be understood that the protective element 132 may be adhered to or attached to the burner system 104 by other means. The protective element 132 may be made of various materials, including glass, plastic, metal or other heat-resistant materials. The protective element 132 may be translucent or transparent.

[0057] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of a burner system (e.g., burner system 104) in the combustion position according to an example of this disclosure. In this example, the baffle 118 is in the combustion position. Accordingly, the combustion chamber 120 is operable to burn fuel stored in the reservoir 124. In this way, the combustion chamber 120 is exposed because the flameout element 158 ​​is retracted and positioned below the inner plate 164 of the base plate 116. Additionally, the handle 156 of the baffle 118 retracts proximally so that it covers the filling port 144 of the filler 126. In an example including the plug 130, the baffle 118 in the combustion position prevents the plug 130 from being removed from the filler 126.

[0058] When in the combustion position, burner system 104 can burn fuel in reservoir 124, but cannot introduce fuel into reservoir 124. Baffle 118 serves multiple functions: exposing combustion chamber 120 for combustion, while also covering the filling port 144 of filler 126 to prevent fuel filling. By covering filler 126, baffle 118 ensures that fuel cannot be introduced into burner system 104 when burner system 104 is actively burning fuel.

[0059] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of a burner system (e.g., burner system 104) in the fuel position according to an example of this disclosure. In this example, baffle 118 is in the fuel position. Figure 6The plug 130 is shown removed from the filler 126 after the baffle 118 enters the fuel position. The fuel bottle 180 is pouring fuel into the filler port 144. The fuel flows through the filler line 142, exits from the outlet port 146, and enters the inlet port 140 to reach the reservoir 124.

[0060] When in the fuel position, the filling port 144 is available to fill the reservoir 124 with fuel. Thus, the handle 156 extends to expose the filling port 144, and the flameout element 158 ​​extends to cover the combustion chamber 120. In the example including the plug 130, the baffle 118 in the fuel position allows the plug 130 to be removed from the filler 126.

[0061] When in the fuel position, burner system 104 cannot burn fuel in reservoir 124, but additional fuel can be introduced into reservoir 124. Baffle 118 serves multiple functions: it covers combustion chamber 120 to prevent combustion, while also exposing the filling port 144 of filler 126 for refueling. By covering combustion chamber 120 when filler 126 is exposed, baffle 118 ensures that burner system 104 cannot burn fuel during refueling. This prevents flame 112 from spreading to the user via fuel.

[0062] Figure 7 and Figure 8 A perspective cross-sectional view of a burner system (e.g., burner system 104) according to an example of this disclosure. Figure 9 A side cross-sectional view of a burner system (e.g., burner system 104) according to an example of this disclosure. Figures 7-9 In the example shown, the burner system 104 has been assembled.

[0063] Baffle 118 is an integrated baffle that cannot be separated from burner system 104. Because baffle 118 is integrated, it cannot be easily removed by the user. In some examples, disassembly of burner system 104 or baffle 118 itself is required to detach baffle 118 from burner system 104. Integrating baffle 118 with burner system 104 has advantages. Baffle 118 can function as a dual-function baffle without separation from the system, allowing for spaced-out port filling separate from the combustion chamber. This simplifies product use, improves user experience, prevents loss or misplacement of baffle 118, and offers other advantages.

[0064] It should be understood that the baffle 118 can be integrated in a variety of different ways. In some examples, as shown, the baffle 118 extends through the handle opening 176. The baffle 118 can slide between the combustion position and the fuel position within the handle opening 176. Because the baffle 118 is integrated, it is difficult or impossible to remove the baffle 118 from the slot 172 defined by the substrate 116.

[0065] If the user attempts to move the baffle 118 distally beyond the combustion position, the distally facing stop surface 182 of the handle 156 engages the base plate 116 or the surface 184 of the reservoir 124. This engagement of the handle 156 with the base plate 116 prevents the baffle 118 from moving distally beyond the combustion position and also prevents the baffle 118 from being removed from the burner system 104. The distally facing stop surface 182 may be defined by the shape or curvature of the handle 156. In other examples, the distally facing stop surface 182 may be a protrusion extending from or attached to the handle 156.

[0066] If a user attempts to move the baffle 118 proximally from the fuel position, the proximally facing stop surface 186 of the baffle 118 engages the reservoir 124 or the base plate 116. The proximally facing stop surface 186 of the flameout element 158 ​​may be formed by the shape or curvature of the flameout element 158. In other examples, the proximally facing stop surface 186 is located on a protrusion, projection, or boss extending vertically below the central axis of the baffle 118. In some examples, when the width of the flameout element 158 ​​is greater than the handle opening 176, the flameout element 158 ​​engages the surface of the base plate 116 at the handle opening 176. The engagement of the baffle 118 with the base plate 116 prevents the baffle 118 from moving proximally from the fuel position and also prevents the baffle 118 from being removed from the burner system 104.

[0067] Figures 7-9 A baffle 118 in the combustion position is shown, with a handle 156 covering the fill port 144 and the combustion chamber 120 exposed. To move the baffle 118 from the combustion position to the fuel position or vice versa, the user can slide the handle 156 proximally or distally through a handle opening 176 defined by the base plate 116. When the user pushes or pulls the handle 156, the flameout element 158 ​​slides against a lip 159 of the combustion chamber 120. The lip 159 serves as a guide for the flameout element 158.

[0068] Another advantageous feature of the burner system 104 is that the inlet port 140 is spaced apart from the combustion chamber 120. Because the inlet port 140 is spaced apart from the combustion chamber 120, the user does not need to introduce fuel into the reservoir 124 through the combustion chamber 120. Introducing fuel into the combustion chamber 120 carries the risk of spilling fuel onto an open flame. Furthermore, because the inlet port 140 is separate and spaced apart from the combustion chamber 120, the user can add fuel to the burner system 104 when it is extinguished. Accordingly, the inlet port 140, spaced apart from the combustion chamber 120, simplifies product use and enhances the user experience.

[0069] Similarly, spacing the filling port 144 from the combustion chamber 120 has advantages. Spacing the filling port 144 from the combustion chamber 120 increases the distance between any potentially active flame and the location where the user feeds fuel into the burner system 104. In this example, the filling port 144 is coupled to a filling opening 149 defined by the substrate 116. This provides structural rigidity to the filler 126, and the filling opening 149 serves as a fixed position where the baffle 118 can selectively cover the filling port 144. As shown, the filling opening 149 can be configured and shaped to deliver fuel in a funnel-like manner into the filling port 144. Because the filling opening 149 is shaped like a funnel, the area available for the user to pour fuel is increased. Additionally, the funnel-shaped filling opening 149 allows the plug 130 to press-fit into the filling opening 149.

[0070] Although the accompanying drawings show baffle 118 in the combustion or fuel position, it should be understood that the user can control baffle 118 such that it covers a portion of the opening 154 of the combustion chamber 120. In this way, baffle 118 can be used to suppress or minimize combustion occurring in the combustion chamber 120 without completely extinguishing the flame. This feature allows the burner system 104 to burn at a sub-full load depending on whether the user desires less heat and / or a smaller or less intense flame. Even when baffle 118 is moved to the partial combustion position, it still covers the filler port 144, preventing the plug 130 from being removed and fuel from being introduced.

[0071] Figure 10 A flowchart illustrating a method for operating a burner system (e.g., burner system 104) according to an example of this disclosure. Although Figure 10 The example shown illustrates the actions taken in one instance, but other examples may omit, add, reorder, and / or modify them. Figure 10 Any of the operations shown. Furthermore, other methods may be combined with other principles and aspects described throughout this disclosure.

[0072] In some examples, process 1002 includes assembling a burner system 104, the burner system including a reservoir 124 configured to store fuel, a filler 126 coupled to the reservoir 124, and a combustion chamber 120 coupled to the reservoir. In some examples, assembling the burner system 104 includes positioning a base plate 116 at least partially above the reservoir 124 and positioning a baffle 118 between the base plate 116 and the combustion chamber 120.

[0073] In some examples, process 1004 includes integrating a baffle 118, comprising a handle 156 and a flameout element 158, with the burner system 104. By integrating the baffle 118, it becomes inseparable from the burner system 104. The baffle 118 can be integrated using the methods described above. In some examples, the baffle 118 is integrated with the burner system 104 during the assembly of the burner system 104 in process 1002.

[0074] In some examples, process 1006 includes moving a baffle 118, comprising a handle 156 and a flameout element 158, between a combustion position in which the combustion chamber 120 is operable to burn fuel stored in a reservoir, and in the fuel position in which a filling port 144 is available to fill the reservoir 124 with fuel. In some examples, moving the baffle 118 between the combustion and fuel positions includes sliding the handle 156 through a handle opening 176 defined by a base plate 116. As the baffle 118 moves between the positions, the flameout element 158 ​​can slide against a lip 159 of the combustion chamber 120. The lip 159 acts as a guide to ensure that the flameout element 158 ​​is supported and covers the combustion opening 154.

[0075] In some examples, process 1010 includes moving a baffle 118 between a combustion position and a fuel position, the movement comprising moving the baffle 118 from the combustion position to the fuel position. During this movement, the combustion chamber 120 is simultaneously exposed, while the handle 156 covers the filling port 144 of the filler 126. As the baffle 118 moves from the combustion position to the fuel position, the distally facing stop surface 182 of the handle 156 may engage with the base plate 116 or the reservoir 124 to prevent the baffle 118 from moving distally beyond the fuel position. Upon reaching the fuel position, the plug 130 can be removed from the filler 126 and / or the filling opening 149 as the filling port 144 and filling opening 149 are fully exposed. Once the baffle 118 has moved from the combustion position to the fuel position, fuel can be added to the burner system 104 in a manner spaced apart from the combustion chamber 120, wherein all combustion is kept completely extinguished by the flameout element 158.

[0076] In some examples, process 1008 includes moving a baffle 118 between a combustion position and a fuel position, the movement comprising moving the baffle 118 from the fuel position to the combustion position. This movement simultaneously exposes the fill port 144 while the flameout element 158 ​​covers the combustion chamber 120. As the baffle 118 moves from the fuel position to the combustion position, a proximal stop surface 186 of the baffle can engage with the base plate 116 or the reservoir 124 to prevent the baffle 118 from moving proximal beyond the combustion position. Once the baffle 118 has moved from the fuel position to the combustion position, the burner system 104 can ignite in a manner spaced apart from the fill port 144.

[0077] During these processes, the baffle 118 can be moved to a partial combustion position, in which the burner system 104 can burn fuel at a rate desired by the user. When the baffle 118 only covers a portion of the combustion opening 154, the amount of combustion produced is less than when the combustion opening 154 is fully open. However, the filling port 144 can still remain at least partially covered to prevent the plug 130 from being removed and to prevent fuel from being added to the burner system 104.

[0078] The methods and operations described above are applicable to the combustion systems and burner systems described herein. All characteristics of the combustion systems and burner systems are applicable to this method, and the method can be improved or additional processes can be added to it.

[0079] The methods described herein are illustrated as a series of operations or procedures. Not all illustrated procedures are performed in all examples of the methods. Additionally, one or more procedures not explicitly shown or described may be included before, after, between, or as part of an exemplary procedure. In some examples, one or more of the procedures may be executed by a controller and / or may be implemented at least in part as executable code stored on a non-transitory tangible computer-readable or machine-readable medium, which, when run by one or more processors, causes one or more processors to perform one, some, or all of the procedures described herein with respect to the methods. The elements shown in the block diagrams herein may be implemented by hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. Showing one block diagram element separately from another does not necessarily mean that the function performed by each individual element needs to be implemented by different hardware or software; these elements are shown separately only for ease of description.

[0080] In some cases, well-known methods, processes, and components have not been described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring various aspects of the examples. While certain exemplary examples of this disclosure have been described and shown in the accompanying drawings, it should be understood that these examples are merely illustrative and do not limit the broad scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, the examples of this disclosure should not be limited to the specific structures and arrangements shown and described, as many other modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A burner system, comprising: A storage device configured to store fuel; A filler, the filler being coupled to the storage and including a fill port; Combustion chamber, the combustion chamber being connected to the storage device; as well as A baffle, comprising a filling cap and a flameout element, is movable between a combustion position and a fuel position. In the combustion position, the combustion chamber is operable to burn fuel stored in the reservoir; and In the fuel location, the filling port can be used to fill the reservoir with fuel.

2. The burner system according to claim 1, wherein, In the combustion position, the combustion chamber is exposed, and the filling cap covers the filling port of the filler.

3. The burner system according to claim 2, wherein, In the fuel position, the filling port is exposed, and the flameout element covers the combustion chamber.

4. The burner system of claim 1, further comprising a plug at least partially disposed within the filler, wherein in the combustion position, the baffle prevents the plug from being removed from the filler.

5. The burner system according to claim 1, wherein, The baffle is an integrated baffle that cannot be separated from the burner system.

6. The burner system of claim 1, further comprising a base plate positioned above the reservoir, wherein the baffle is positioned between the base plate and the combustion chamber.

7. The burner system according to claim 6, wherein, The filler cap is a handle, which is configured to slide through a handle opening defined by the substrate during movement between the combustion position and the fuel position.

8. The burner system according to claim 6, wherein, The flameout element slides against the lip of the combustion chamber as it moves between the combustion position and the fuel position.

9. The burner system according to claim 6, wherein, The filling cap is a handle, the handle including a distally facing stop surface that can engage with the substrate or the reservoir to prevent the baffle from moving distally beyond the combustion position.

10. The burner system according to claim 6, wherein, The flameout element includes a proximal stop surface that can engage with the substrate or the reservoir to prevent the baffle from moving proximal beyond the fuel position.

11. A method for operating a burner system, the burner system comprising a reservoir configured to store fuel, a filler coupled to the reservoir and including a filling port, and a combustion chamber coupled to the reservoir, the method comprising: Move the baffle, which includes the filler cap and the flameout device, between the combustion position and the fuel position: In the combustion position, the combustion chamber is operable to burn fuel stored in the reservoir; and In the fuel location, the filling port can be used to fill the reservoir with fuel.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein, Moving the baffle between the combustion position and the fuel position includes moving the baffle from the combustion position to the fuel position, thereby exposing the combustion chamber and covering the filling port of the filler through the filling cap.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein, Moving the baffle between the combustion position and the fuel position includes moving the baffle from the fuel position to the combustion position, thereby exposing the filling port and covering the combustion chamber by the flameout element.

14. The method of claim 11, further comprising integrating the baffle with the burner system during assembly of the burner system, wherein the integrated baffle cannot be separated from the burner system.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein, Assembling the burner system includes positioning a base plate above the reservoir and positioning the baffle between the base plate and the combustion chamber.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein, Moving the baffle between the combustion position and the fuel position includes sliding the filler cap through an opening defined by the substrate.

17. The method according to claim 15, wherein, Moving the baffle between the combustion position and the fuel position includes sliding the flameout element against the lip of the combustion chamber.

18. The method according to claim 15, wherein, Moving the baffle between the combustion position and the fuel position includes engaging the distally facing stop surface of the filling cap with the substrate or the reservoir to prevent the baffle from moving distally beyond the combustion position.

19. The method according to claim 15, wherein, Moving the baffle between the combustion position and the fuel position includes engaging a proximal stop surface of the baffle with the base plate or the reservoir to prevent the baffle from moving proximal beyond the fuel position.

20. A burner system comprising: A storage device configured to store fuel; A filler, which is coupled to the reservoir and can be used to fill the reservoir with fuel, the filler including a filling port; as well as A combustion chamber, connected to the reservoir and configured to burn fuel stored in the reservoir, wherein the filling port is spaced apart from the combustion chamber.

21. The burner system according to claim 20, wherein, The filler includes a filler line configured to introduce fuel into the reservoir through an inlet port spaced apart from the combustion chamber.

22. The burner system of claim 20, further comprising a protective element configured to block heat generated at the combustion chamber, wherein the protective element is at least partially located between the combustion chamber and the filling port spaced apart from the combustion chamber.

23. The burner system of claim 20, further comprising a substrate at least partially positioned above the reservoir, the filling port being coupled to a filling opening defined by the substrate.

24. The burner system according to claim 23, wherein, The filling opening is shaped to deliver fuel into the filling port in a funnel manner.

25. The burner system according to claim 20, wherein, The filler includes a flame arrester configured to prevent flames from spreading from the combustion chamber to the filling port of the filler.

26. The burner system according to claim 20, wherein, The filler includes a one-way valve configured to prevent fuel from flowing from the reservoir toward the filler port.

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