Fire column with fuel tank

Abstract

The invention relates to a fire column for producing a vortex flame (1), which fire column comprises an outer shell (2), a base (3), an air-guiding element (4) and a fuel tank (5) which can be permanently integrated or removable, characterized in that the fuel tank (5) is at least predominantly closed at the upper end (5a), and a wick (6) leads through said upper end of the fuel tank (5a). Moreover, the invention relates to a fuel tank (5) for a fire column for producing a vortex flame (1), characterized in that the fuel tank (5) has a closed body, is at least predominantly closed at the upper end (5a), a wick (6) leads through said upper end of the fuel tank (5a), and a limiting element (7) limits the length of the wick (6) above the fuel tank (5, 5a). The flame pattern is improved by the invention.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a fire column for generating a vortex flame, comprising an outer casing, a base, an air guide element, and a fuel container. The invention also relates to a fuel container for a fire column according to the invention.

[0002] In fire columns, usually encased in a glass cylinder, the flame is set in motion by swirling air, creating a tornado-like effect that is particularly captivating. When using bioethanol and similar fuels, fire columns are also suitable for indoor use, primarily for decoration, but also for the relaxation of residents, much like open fireplaces (or simulated fireplaces on monitors). Fire columns are also used outdoors, for example on patios, where they can also serve as a source of light and warmth on cooler evenings.

[0003] From US patent 2015 / 167964 A1, an adjustable vortex flame device with a control head is known. The control head defines an opening and comprises a flow-guiding mechanism with a plurality of blades and a control mechanism that defines a hole. The blades are arranged sequentially along a circumference of the opening, with a spiral air passage formed between two adjacent blades. The vortex flame device includes a fuel reservoir with a seat.

[0004] Publication KR 2013 0131066 A discloses a safety lamp with a fuel container. A combustion device with a candle wick and a flow guidance arrangement is known from publication DE10 2018 124470 A1.

[0005] Document WO 2020 / 069770 A1 discloses a fire column that includes a fuel container for bioethanol and similar fuels. The fuel container is open at the top. The fuel contained in the fuel container can burn, producing a large, tall, and spiral flame.

[0006] During operation of the fire column described in publication WO 2020 / 069770 A1, the height and visibility of the generated flame change. Immediately after ignition, the flame is typically very small and barely visible. Only after a certain time, often after 1 to 2 minutes, does the flame reach the desired height and visibility. A reduction in flame height also occurs when the fuel in the fuel container is largely depleted.

[0007] The invention is therefore based on the objective of ensuring a good combustion process for fire columns.

[0008] This task is accomplished by a fire column comprising an outer casing, a base, at least one air guide element, and a fuel container, which may be permanently integrated or removable. The fuel container is at least predominantly closed at its upper end. One or more wicks extend through this predominantly closed upper end of the fuel container. The inner wall of the outer casing surrounds a spiral air guide element (4) flush or with only minimal clearance.

[0009] A fire column is an object used to produce a tall flame. The flame that can be produced is generally at least 10 cm high, preferably at least 20 cm. However, even taller flames can be produced. A flame can also reach 35 cm or 40 cm in height.

[0010] A fire column primarily serves a decorative purpose. It is not required to be specifically suited for heating food or liquids. In particular, a fire column is portable and suitable for indoor or outdoor use.

[0011] A vortex flame is a flame that is set in motion by air and is therefore spiral-shaped.

[0012] The outer shell refers to the outer casing of a fire column. This outer shell is open at the top and bottom, but forms a predominantly closed barrier across the entire flame area, preventing horizontal exchange with the air outside. The outer shell typically has no openings across the flame area through which air can flow. In this case, the outer shell forms a completely closed barrier horizontally. Specifically, the shell can be transparent or translucent, or include transparent or translucent sections. Generally, the outer shell is manufactured as a single piece in one operation to minimize the number of parts.

[0013] An outer casing can be designed, for example, as a round glass cylinder or a metal cylinder with glazed openings. Beyond this, virtually any other shape is possible, whether angular, bulbous, conical, concave, elongated, compressed, symmetrical, asymmetrical, or irregular. However, a circular diameter is preferable if a particularly uniform flame pattern is desired. The outer casing can be made of any non-combustible material or material combination, including transparent, frosted, tinted, or colored glass, smoked glass, metal, or ceramic.

[0014] The base refers to a block located at the bottom of the fire column, which typically serves for its upright position, to house the fuel container, and / or as a support for the outer casing. Specifically, the base can be designed as a stand or include a stand, a ground spike, or some other means of attachment. The base may be connected to, or already connected to, a stand or ground spike. Generally, the base is manufactured as a single piece in one operation to minimize the number of parts.

[0015] In particular, the base itself can function as a fuel container, or a fuel container can be integrated into the base. The base can be suitable for the complete or partial housing, or for the direct or indirect connection, of a fuel container.

[0016] The majority of the outer shell can be positioned above the base. A lower end of the outer shell can partially or completely enclose the base laterally.

[0017] An air guide element is a structural element used to deflect an airflow thermally generated by the flame, causing the flame to rotate. This creates a vortex flame. The vortex flame resembles the shape of a spiral. An air guide element can be designed as a straight or curved, closed or semi-open channel. It can comprise a flat or curved surface and may be made of sheet metal. The air guide element can interact with other elements of the fire column to direct air in such a way as to create a vortex flame. These other elements can be the outer casing and / or the base. Specifically, an air guide element can be integrated into or attached to the base or outer casing. When erected, the air guide element preferably forms an acute angle with the horizontal. It is therefore only slightly tilted relative to the horizontal.

[0018] A fuel container is a receptacle for the safe storage and dispensing of fuel, particularly during combustion. Fuel containers can be designed as canisters, cartridges, bottles, or cylinders made of materials such as glass, ceramic, sheet metal, other metals, or suitable plastics. Specifically, the fuel container can be a closed container without a refilling option or it can include a refill opening, which is usually resealable. Preferably, the fuel container is made of metal. This ensures reliable fire resistance and allows for simple manufacturing.

[0019] The fuel container may include a resealable refill opening. This resealable refill opening is the opening through which the wick passes. The wick can then be pulled out of the fuel container. The fuel container can then be filled with fuel. After filling, the wick can be reinserted into the opening.

[0020] The upper end of the fuel container is at least predominantly closed. The upper end of the fuel container can be a fixed wall that cannot be removed and has no or almost no openings. The upper end of the fuel container can be a removable lid that has no or almost no openings.

[0021] Fuel refers to a chemical substance whose stored energy is released through combustion. Examples of fuels include (bio)ethanol, alcohol, gasoline, oil, and wax. A fuel can exist at room temperature in liquid form, solid form, as a gel, or as a paste.

[0022] A wick is a material suitable for drawing liquid fuel against gravity into the combustion zone using capillary action. A wick can be spun, braided, or woven, and can be thread-like or flat. It can be made of plant, animal, chemical, or other fibers. For example, a wick can be made of hemp, coconut, sisal, cotton, glass, metal, and / or aramid.

[0023] The wick, which passes through a predominantly closed top surface, ensures that the swirling flame is always located above the top of the fuel container. The appearance of the swirling flame is therefore uniform compared to the previously mentioned case of an open fuel container, where the flame's position depends on the fuel container's fill level. While a fuel container according to the invention is considerably more complex to manufacture than one without a wick passing through a top surface, the resulting advantage justifies the additional effort.

[0024] In a preferred design, the fibers of the wick consist of fire-resistant materials.

[0025] Refractory materials are materials that withstand the flame of a fire column, specifically those that neither burn nor melt, such as glass, minerals, metal, or aramid. Materials with an operating temperature above 600°C are particularly refractory.

[0026] Compared to wicks made of non-refractory materials, wicks based on refractory materials, such as fiberglass, aramid, or metal, offer the advantage of improved length stability. These wicks reliably protrude the same distance from the surface of the fuel container at all times. This further contributes to consistently producing a clearly visible, swirling flame.

[0027] In another preferred embodiment, a limiting element restricts the length of the wick above the fuel container. The limiting element is a fire-resistant element that restricts the protrusion of a wick above the upper end of the fuel container. The limiting element is preferably made of metal for ease of manufacture.

[0028] Limiting the length of the wick above the top of the fuel container prevents it from protruding excessively far beyond the container's surface. When the wick reaches this limiting element, it ensures that it protrudes from the top of the fuel container in a defined manner. Below the top of the fuel container, inside the container, the wick's length is limited by the closed bottom of the fuel container. This ensures that the flame is neither too small nor too large.

[0029] Limiting elements can be designed, for example, as pins, brackets, nets, or meshes. Limiting elements can be attached, in particular, to the fuel container itself, to the fuel container lid, the outer casing, or the base. They can guide the wick ends or otherwise prevent the movement of the wicks, especially in the vertical direction. A limiting element can be made of refractory materials, especially metal.

[0030] In another preferred embodiment, the upper end of the fuel container is a detachable lid that has no or almost no openings. The lid can preferably be connected to the rest of the fuel container in such a way that it cannot accidentally detach.

[0031] A lid is a nearly or completely airtight and dustproof seal for a container. A lid can be large or small compared to the cross-section of the rest of the fuel container. The lid can be round, oval, or rectangular. A lid can be completely removable from the container for opening or remain mechanically connected to the container, for example, by a hinged mechanism or a safety cable.

[0032] It can be a screw-on lid or a lid that can be attached to the rest of the fuel container using clips or latches to prevent accidental detachment. The lid or container can include one or more seals to prevent leakage. A flat, annular gasket can be used as the seal. Such a gasket provides a particularly reliable seal. The flat gasket can be held securely to the lid by means of retainers. These retainers can include flexible tabs that allow them to be held securely in place.

[0033] A removable lid at the top of the fuel container allows for easy checking of the fuel level and refilling before igniting the flame. This helps ensure a consistently visible, swirling flame.

[0034] In a further preferred embodiment, at least one handle is located on the top of the lid. A handle allows, in particular, a secure grip on the lid, especially for removing the lid from the fuel container or for lifting the fuel container as a whole. A handle can be designed, in particular, as a suitable contour of the lid or as a suitably shaped ring or bracket connected to the lid. The ability to safely lift the lid with a handle reduces the risk of damaging the wicks. This helps to maintain a clearly visible, swirling flame.

[0035] In one embodiment, the handle or handle element also serves as a limiting element for at least one wick, in order to minimize the number of parts. The handle is preferably made in one piece to keep manufacturing costs low.

[0036] In another preferred embodiment, the wick is positioned centrally at the top of the fuel container, relative to the cross-section of the inner wall of the outer casing. Such a central positioning of the wick makes it easy to create good airflow conditions around the entire flame. This contributes to obtaining a clearly visible, swirling flame.

[0037] In another preferred embodiment, multiple wicks extend through the closed upper end of the fuel container. Multiple wicks make better use of the available surface area for generating a vortex flame. Furthermore, this ensures that the flame does not go out even if one wick malfunctions. This allows heat to be generated immediately, even at the edges. Among other things, this results in a clearly visible vortex flame being produced very quickly after ignition.

[0038] In another preferred embodiment, a plurality of wicks of the fuel container are evenly distributed along an imaginary circle at the upper end of the fuel container. Such an evenly distributed arrangement along an imaginary circle allows the individual flames to interact as uniformly as possible to produce a single large flame, and also facilitates good airflow conditions around this flame. Both of these factors contribute to obtaining a highly visible swirling flame that is quickly visible after ignition.

[0039] In another preferred embodiment, a pressure equalization opening is located in or near the upper end of the fuel container.

[0040] The pressure equalization opening is just large enough to ensure pressure equalization inside the fuel container as the fuel level drops during combustion. On the other hand, the opening also allows excess pressure to escape, ensuring the wicks always deliver a consistent flow and preventing the fuel from being forced through the wick by excessive pressure.

[0041] The pressure equalization opening is so small that the upper end of the fuel container is almost completely closed, meaning that liquids and pastes can only escape in extremely small quantities or not at all.

[0042] In another preferred embodiment, such a pressure equalization opening is located near each wick that passes through the upper end of the fuel container. This ensures an unimpeded supply of fuel to the flame and thus helps to maintain a clearly visible swirling flame.

[0043] In another preferred embodiment, the base's outer wall is essentially cylindrical. A cylindrical shape for the base's outer wall is suitable for streamlining the deflection of air flowing in at the bottom of the fire column into a rotating airflow. This facilitates the supply of suitable fresh air currents necessary for generating a swirling flame and thus helps to obtain a clearly visible swirling flame.

[0044] In another preferred embodiment, the inner wall of the outer casing essentially has the shape of a cylinder. A cylindrical shape for the inner wall of the outer casing is suitable for streamlining the deflection of air flowing in at the lower end of the fire column into a rotating airflow and for maintaining this rotation across the flame area. This facilitates the supply and maintenance of suitable fresh air flows necessary for generating a vortex flame, thus helping to achieve a clearly visible vortex flame.

[0045] In another preferred embodiment, at least one air guide element spirals around the outer wall of the base. A helical configuration of at least one air guide element around the outer wall of the base is suitable for streamlining the deflection of air flowing in at the lower end of the fire column into a rotating airflow. This facilitates the supply of suitable fresh air streams required to generate a vortex flame and thus helps to achieve a clearly visible vortex flame.

[0046] The inner wall of the outer casing fits snugly around the at least one spiral air guide element, or at most with minimal clearance. This design facilitates the efficient redirection of air flowing in at the bottom of the fire column into a rotating airflow. This promotes the supply of suitable fresh air currents necessary for generating a vortex flame and thus helps to achieve a clearly visible vortex flame. Nevertheless, the outer casing can be easily removed, for example, to replace the fuel container.

[0047] In another preferred embodiment, the lower end of the outer shell rests on a support element positioned in the lower third of the base's outer wall. This support element contributes, at least in part, to holding the outer shell in place.

[0048] A support element is a structural element onto which the outer shell can be vertically placed from above and which limits the movement of the outer shell, alone or in combination with other support elements, particularly in the vertical direction. A support element can be, for example, a ring, a rim, a flat surface, a pin, a bolt, a hook, or a spring element. A support element can project beyond the cross-section of the inner wall of the outer shell. In conjunction with a suitable design of the inner wall of the outer shell, such as a groove, a projection, a ring, or a hook, a support element can limit the movement of the outer shell in the vertical direction. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the fire column comprises at least three support elements, as this achieves reliable support with the fewest possible parts.Preferably, a support element is designed as a bolt or pins in order to keep the material usage low.

[0049] The lower end of the outer casing rests against the base's outer wall in the area of ​​the lower third, allowing a sufficient amount of fresh air to flow in at the base of the fire column, particularly at the base itself. This also facilitates the efficient redirection of the incoming airflow through the interaction of the base's outer wall, the air guide element, and the inner wall of the outer casing. This promotes the supply of suitable fresh air currents necessary for generating a swirling flame, thus helping to create a clearly visible swirling flame. A support element can extend horizontally from the base wall and project beyond the cross-section of the outer casing's inner wall, thereby ensuring an exceptionally good air supply to the flame.

[0050] In a further preferred embodiment, the fire column according to the invention comprises an extinguishing cover. An extinguishing cover is a cover for extinguishing the flame. A cover for extinguishing the flame reduces the supply of fresh air to the flame so significantly that the flame goes out after a short time, typically after a few seconds at the latest.

[0051] Such a cover can be inserted into and removed from the airflow, for example, by means of a hinged mechanism or a cord, wire, or rod. Such a cover can, for example, have a flat, bowl-shaped, or bell-shaped form. In a preferred embodiment, its shape is adapted to the top of the fuel container and / or the inner cross-section of the outer casing to improve the extinguishing process.

[0052] Such a cover allows the extinguishing process to be carried out quickly and precisely at the desired time. Unlike alternative extinguishing methods, such as burning the fuel or using a powdered or liquid extinguishing agent, a subsequent combustion process is not negatively affected. This helps to maintain a clearly visible swirling flame at all times, both until the end of an ongoing combustion process and during a subsequent one.

[0053] To solve this problem, the invention also relates to a fuel container for a fire column according to the invention. The fuel container can be designed as described above. The fuel container has a closed body and is at least predominantly closed at the upper end. Only one or more openings for wicks and one or more ventilation openings may be present on the top. The ventilation openings are generally smaller than the wick openings. The fuel container then has no further openings. At least one wick extends through the upper end of the fuel container. There is a limiting element that restricts the length of the wick above the fuel container.

[0054] The wick preferably comprises fire-resistant fibers, especially glass fibers.

[0055] At least one ring-shaped handle element, preferably part of the limiting element, can be located at the upper end of the fuel container. The limiting element serving as a handle element can be made of one or more metal wires. The metal wires of the limiting element can be welded together.

[0056] A multiple wicks preferably lead through the closed upper end of the fuel container.

[0057] Inside the fuel container, there can be a tube through which the wick is threaded. If there are multiple wicks, there can be a separate tube for each wick. This allows for a more consistent combustion and reduces the dependence of the flame height on the fuel level in the container.

[0058] Instead of a tube, a casing with open ends and openings in its wall may be used. One or more wicks may be enclosed by a mesh, which can be made of metal. A casing with holes or a mesh covering facilitates and accelerates the wick becoming saturated with fuel. A casing with holes or a mesh covering also helps maintain a relatively constant flame height. A casing or mesh covering provides mechanical protection.

[0059] Preferably, there is a transition fit between the wick and the tube. This further improves the dependence of the flame height on the fuel level in the fuel container. It also helps ensure that the wick does not accidentally detach and fall into the fuel container. This improves safe operation.

[0060] Preferably, there is a press fit between the wick and the tube. Compared to a transition fit, this ensures significantly improved, trouble-free operation. It also makes it more difficult for the wick to accidentally fall out, be easily disassembled, or become missing.

[0061] The wick can protrude from one or both ends of the tube. The length of the tube is then generally shorter than the length of the wick it encloses. The tubes can therefore protrude from the fuel container. The wick should protrude at least 1 mm or 2 mm downwards. A minimum of 5 mm is preferable to allow the wick to quickly become saturated with fuel. A length exceeding 20 mm generally offers no technical advantage and is therefore impractical.

[0062] If the wick protrudes from the inside of the fuel container, opposite the tube, and then extends downwards out of the tube, a good fuel supply is ensured. In particular, the wick can reach the bottom of the fuel container without the tube obstructing the fuel flow. If the wick reaches the bottom of the fuel container, the fuel in the container can be used almost entirely to produce a flame.

[0063] If the wick protrudes outside the fuel container opposite the tube and then extends upwards out of the tube, a sufficiently large and therefore clearly visible flame or vortex flame can be achieved.

[0064] Preferably, each tube passes through the top of the fuel container. Each tube then protrudes slightly upwards from the interior of the fuel container. Should water get onto the top of the fuel container, the upward-protruding tubes prevent the wicks from becoming waterlogged and thus damagingly saturated. This design also allows a retaining element to be positioned further away from the top of the fuel container. This makes it easier to use the retaining element as a handle.

[0065] Each tube can widen at one end into a funnel shape to make inserting a wick particularly easy. This simplifies assembly. Preferably, the funnel-shaped widening is located inside the fuel container. This avoids contamination problems that could otherwise occur if the funnel-shaped widening were located outside the fuel container.

[0066] The one or more tubes can be made of a fire-resistant material. The one or more tubes can be made of metal or glass.

[0067] The invention will now be described in more detail below. Figures 1 to 3 explained in more detail. Figure 1 shows a first embodiment of a fire column according to the invention for generating a vortex flame in cross-section. Figure 2 shows the view from above of a fuel container according to the invention. Figure 3shows the view from above of the fuel container according to the invention with limiting element. Figure 4 shows a side view of the fuel tank. Figure 5 shows a side view of the fuel tank with extinguishing lid. Figure 6 is an exploded view of a second fuel container of a second embodiment. Figure 7 The lid part with wick of the second embodiment is shown. Figure 8 shows the second fuel tank in a cutaway view from the front. Figure 9 shows a top view of the fuel tank of the second embodiment. Figure 10 The image shows the column of fire with the inserted fuel container of the second embodiment. Figure 11 The second embodiment of the fire column with extinguishing lid in an elevated position is shown. Figure 12 shows the second embodiment of the fire column with extinguishing lid in extinguishing position. Figure 13shows another embodiment of a fuel container with a screwed-on lid and interrupted thread. Figure 14 shows another embodiment of a fuel container with a screwed-on lid and O-ring. Figure 15 shows another embodiment of a fuel container with tubes for wicks. Figure 16 shows another embodiment of a fuel tank with a flat gasket.

[0068] The Figures 1 to 5 show a first embodiment of the invention. Figure 1Figure 1 shows a fire column 1 for generating a vortex flame. The fire column 1 for generating a vortex flame comprises an outer casing 2, a base 3, one or more air guide elements 4, and a fuel container 5. The fuel container 5 is closed at its upper end 5a. A wick 6 extends through the upper end 5a of the fuel container 5. The length of the wick 6, which may be made of glass fibers, is limited above the upper end 5a of the fuel container 5 by a limiting element 7. The limiting element 7 may be a metal bracket that runs above the wick 6 and is attached to the upper end 5a of the fuel container 5. The wick 6 extends to the bottom of the fuel container 5 to ensure the most complete combustion of the fuel.

[0069] The base 3 has the shape of a cylinder. The at least one air guide element 4 spirals around the cylindrical outer wall of the base 3. The outer shell 2, which in a preferred embodiment is made of fire-resistant, transparent glass, has the shape of a cylinder.

[0070] During operation, the air heated by the vortex flame rises and flows out of the open top of the outer shell 2. The outer shell 2 surrounds the at least one air guide element 4 with a tight fit and rests on the support elements designed as pins 8. Fresh air can thus flow in through the open lower end of the outer shell 2 between the outer wall of the base 3 and the inner wall of the outer shell 2. The at least one helical air guide element 4, in conjunction with the outer wall of the base 3 and the inner wall of the outer shell 2, directs the fresh air flowing towards the flame into a helically rotating airflow, causing the flame to swirl in a spiral pattern. The at least one air guide element 4 is a spirally shaped strip of sheet metal.

[0071] To increase stability, the base 3 is mounted on a foot 9. The foot 9 can be a plate. The plate can be circular. The base 3 can be screwed onto the foot 9, for example, by a screw attached to the base. The base and foot can also be formed as a single unit.

[0072] A snuffing cover 10 serves to quickly and safely terminate the combustion process. A rope 10a can be attached to the top of the snuffing cover 10. The rope 10a can be a wire rope. The snuffing cover 10 can be inserted into the outer casing 2 from above and placed on the upper end 5a of the fuel container 5, for example, on the handle element 7a. There is a small gap between the snuffing cover 10 and the inner wall of the outer casing 2. Furthermore, the cylindrical inner wall of the snuffing cover 10 rests against the upper end 5a of the fuel container 5, thus interrupting the airflow to and from the vortex flame, which then extinguishes very quickly.

[0073] The upper end 5a of the fuel container 5 is a lid which is placed on the body of the fuel container 5 by means of a screw thread 5b and screwed on to prevent accidental loosening.

[0074] Preferably, there are at least two or three air guide elements 4, which may be arranged offset from one another. The air guide elements 4 can then advantageously begin and end at the same height.

[0075] The wick 6 can be positioned centrally. Further wicks 6a can be arranged around the wick 6. These further wicks 6a can be arranged in a ring around the central wick 6. The further wicks 6a can also be limited by the limiting element 7 such that they project in a defined manner from the top 5a of the fuel container 5.

[0076] The Figure 2Figure 1 shows a fuel container 5 according to the invention from above. A plurality of wicks 6, 6a extend through the upper end 5a of the fuel container 5. One wick 6 is positioned centrally, and the other wicks 6a are arranged along an imaginary circle. Near the wick 6 is a pressure equalization opening 6b, which serves to equalize the pressure inside the fuel container 5 when the fuel level drops during the combustion process. In a preferred embodiment, a pressure equalization opening 6b is located near each individual wick 6, 6a. Excess pressure can then also escape.

[0077] The Figure 3Figure 1 shows a top view of a fuel container 5 according to the invention with a limiting element 7 attached to the top 5a. The limiting element 7 extends in a star shape on the top surface. This star shape limits the length of all wicks 6, 6a above the upper end or above the top 5a of the fuel container 5 with minimal material expenditure. The wicks 6, 6a are thereby also protected against mechanical damage. The limiting element 7 includes an annular handle 7a. This allows, for example, the screw cap 5a, 5b to be safely and easily removed from and replaced on the body of the fuel container 5 without damaging the wicks 6, 6a.

[0078] The Figure 4Figure 1 shows a side view of a fuel container 5. The hull is a cylindrical container with a bottom. The hull is completely closed and therefore has no openings. The limiting element with the handle part 7a is attached to the top 5a via webs 7b. Figure 5 Figure 1 shows a side view of a fuel container 5 with an attached extinguishing lid 10. The extinguishing lid 10 can have a cap-shaped top to which a pipe section 10c can be attached, allowing the extinguishing lid 10 to be fitted as airtight as possible while still maintaining a distance from the wicks 6, 6a. As shown, the top of the extinguishing lid 10 can include an outer circumferential rim 10d, which is slightly inclined in a funnel shape. Otherwise, the top can be flat.

[0079] The Figures 6 to 14 show a second embodiment of the invention.

[0080] The Figure 6Figure 1 shows the parts of a fuel container 5 in a cutaway view. The top 5a of the fuel container 5 may be welded to the rest of the fuel container 5, so that there is no thread as in the first embodiment. This better prevents the top 5a from accidentally coming loose and thus avoids accidental fuel leakage. It also simplifies the technical effort required to manufacture the fuel container 5.

[0081] The upper surface 5a is essentially slightly funnel-shaped and opens into a centrally arranged cylindrical tube section 5c. Fuel can thus be poured onto the upper surface 5a, which can then be filled through the tube section 15 into the fuel container 5 when the wick 6 is positioned as shown in the diagram. Figure 6 The section shown has been removed. This makes refilling the fuel tank 5 with fuel particularly easy.

[0082] The cylindrical tube section 5c has an internal thread. The diameter of the cylindrical tube section 5c is significantly larger than the diameter of the wick 6, which passes through the tube section 5c when assembled.

[0083] The upper surface 5a has depressions 5d, which deviate from the cylindrical shape. The bottom of the depressions 5b is flat and has a central opening for the wicks 6a. The depression 5b could have been produced by forming a sheet of metal, thus in a technically simple manner. A cylindrical tube section 5e is attached to each opening for the wicks 6a. The diameter of the cylindrical tube section 5e corresponds to the diameter of the wicks 6a. The wicks 6a could have been inserted from above through the respective tube section 5e. The tube sections 5e serve to guide and hold the wicks 6a. The depressions 5d ensure that a flat surface borders the wicks 6a. The wicks 6a thus protrude uniformly from the immediately adjacent flat surface. This ensures even combustion.

[0084] The length of the tube section 5c can advantageously be selected such that the lower edge of the tube section 5c indicates the maximum fuel fill level. If the fuel only reaches the lower edge of the tube section 5c and the wick 6 is subsequently inserted, fuel cannot reach the top 5a due to displacement. However, if fuel extends into the tube section 5c and the wick 6 is then inserted, fuel can reach the surface 5a, which should be avoided.

[0085] The limiting element with the handle is connected via webs 7b to a cover part which includes an external thread 7c. The cover part includes a central opening formed by a tube section 7d. The wick 6 can be inserted from below into the cylindrical tube section 7c until it reaches the limiting element with the handle 7a. The wick 6 can then be inserted through the tube section 5c into the container 5. Finally, the external thread 7c is screwed into the internal thread of the tube section 5c, thus firmly connecting it to the fuel container 5.

[0086] A suitably large, closable refill opening for fuel is provided.

[0087] By changing the height of the supports 7b, the length of the part of the wick 6 that protrudes from the container 5 can be altered. This allows the burning behavior of the wick 6 to be adjusted. The supports 7b can therefore be detachably connected to the limiting element and the lid, for example by screw connections. The supports 7b can then be easily replaced. For example, a user can then individually adjust their desired flame height.

[0088] The Figure 7 Figure 1 shows the lid part with wick 6 of the second embodiment. The wick 6 has been pushed into the tube section 7d until it reaches the limiting element with the handle element 7a. Now the wick 6 can be inserted into the container 5 and the lid part can be firmly connected to the fuel container 5 by a screw connection as described above. The result is shown in the Figure 8 shown.

[0089] In the Figure 9A top view of the second embodiment of the fuel container 5 is shown. The top view illustrates that the handle element 7a limits the protrusion of the off-center wicks 6a.

[0090] From the handle element 7a, ridges 7 project inwards, limiting the protrusion of the central wick 6. A space remains between the free ends of the ridges 7, which facilitates lighting the wick 6. Three ridges 7 are shown. However, there could also be, for example, four or only two ridges 7. The one in the Figure 9 The boundary element shown, 7, 7a, can be produced particularly easily by punching.

[0091] One or more pressure equalization openings 6b are arranged near the outer edge of the funnel-shaped top 5a. Being located near the outer edge of the funnel-shaped top 5a ensures that fuel in the fuel container 5 does not reach the pressure equalization opening 6b.

[0092] The Figure 10 Figure 1 shows the fire column 1 with the inserted fuel container 5 of the second embodiment. Figure 11 shows the column of fire Figure 10 with a quenching lid 10, which is partially inserted into the, for example, transparent outer casing 2 by means of the rope 10a. The quenching lid 10 consists of a flat disc and is therefore very simple in design. Nevertheless, the quenching lid 10 can be placed almost airtight on the fuel container 5 due to its funnel-shaped top 5a. This is shown in the Figure 12 shown.

[0093] In the Figure 13Another embodiment of a fuel container 5 is shown. The upper end 5a of the fuel container 5 is a lid which can be screwed to the body of the fuel container 5 by means of a screw thread 5b to prevent accidental loosening. The special feature is that the screw thread 5b is only an interrupted thread. There is no continuous thread, i.e., no helical circumferential recess. Instead, there are interruptions. The manufacturing effort for an interrupted thread is lower compared to the manufacturing effort of a thread with a single, uninterrupted thread, as is common in screws and nuts. It is also easier to screw on the lid. The disadvantage, however, is that it is more difficult to achieve a sufficiently tight seal between the lid and the body of the fuel container 5.

[0094] To prevent leakage problems, the body of the fuel tank 5 has a circumferential, curved rim 5f on its upper surface. The curved rim can be bent into a tubular shape, as shown. The curved rim creates a spring effect, thus preventing leakage problems. It has been shown that the manufacturing effort for the curved rim and the interrupted thread is less than the manufacturing effort for a continuous thread. Nevertheless, it is possible to create a connection that is almost as tight as with a continuous thread.

[0095] If the sealing is to be further improved, this can be done in the case of a screw-on lid as in the Figure 14The cross-sectional view shows an example of an O-ring 5g. The O-ring 5g can be made of an elastomeric material and, for example, held in place by a circumferential collar 5h that protrudes downwards from the underside of the lid. When the lid is screwed on, the O-ring 5g fits snugly against the curved edge 5f. This reliably prevents leakage problems.

[0096] The in the Figures 13 and 14 The embodiment shown can also be designed like the fuel container 5, which is located in the Figures 6 to 9 This is shown. Two options are then available for refilling. The lid can be unscrewed for refilling. It can be done as in the case of the Figures 6 to 9 The data will be refilled as described. A user can then choose the method that seems more convenient to them.

[0097] The Figure 15Figure 1 shows an embodiment of the fuel container 5 with tubes 11 through which wicks 6, 6a are passed. There is a transition fit between each wick 6, 6a and the corresponding tube 11.

[0098] Each wick 6, 6a projects from the ends of its tube 11. The length of a tube 11 is therefore shorter than the length of the wick 6, 6a passing through it. The length of each tube 11 can be at least 60%, 70%, or at least 80% of the length of the associated wick 6, 6a. The length of each tube 11 can be at most 60%, 95%, or 90% of the length of the associated wick 6, 6a. The free length at the lower end determines the time it takes for the wick to become saturated with fuel and thus the time it takes for fuel to reach the top of the wick and be ignited. This free length can therefore be at least 1 mm or at least 2 mm. This free length should expediently not exceed 20 mm.

[0099] Each wick 6, 6a therefore protrudes within the fuel container 5 opposite the associated tube 11 and extends downwards out of the tube 11 to the bottom of the fuel container 5.

[0100] Each wick 6, 6a protrudes outside the interior of the fuel container 5 opposite its tube 11.

[0101] Each tube 11 has a funnel-shaped widening 11a at its lower end. Each tube 11 passes through the top or lid 5a of the fuel container 5. Thus, there is a section 11b of the tube 11 that is located above the top 5a of the fuel container.

[0102] The tubes 11 are preferably made of metal.

[0103] There is a ring-shaped flat gasket 5i, which is held by a bracket 5j. The flat gasket provides a particularly reliable seal. It can also be held in place very easily and advantageously by brackets 5j.

[0104] The Figure 16 shows the lid 5a from the Figure 15 from the underside. The flat gasket 5i runs along the outer edge of the cover 5a. The holder 5j has tabs 5k, 5k'. The tab 5k' is in an open position. The tab 5k is in a closed position. In the closed position, the tabs 5k hold the flat gasket securely in place.

[0105] The bracket 5j can be made of sheet metal and can be welded, soldered, riveted, or glued to the underside of the cover 5a, for example. The tabs 5k, 5k' can then be easily bent back and forth between the open and closed positions.

Claims

1. Fire column for generating a swirling flame (1), comprising an outer shell (2), a base (3), a spiral-shaped air guide element (4), and a fuel container (5) that may be firmly integrated or removable, wherein the fuel container (5) is at least predominantly closed at the upper end (5a) and a wick (6) passes through this upper end of the fuel container (5a), characterized in that the inner wall of the outer shell (2) engages around the spiral-shaped air guide element (4) flush or at most with a slight clearance fit.

2. Fire column (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the wick (6) comprises fireproof fibers, in particular glass fibers, mineral fibers, or metal fibers.

3. Fire column (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a limiting element (7) limits the length of the wick (6) above the fuel container (5).

4. Fire column (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the upper end (5a) of the fuel container (5) is a removable cover.

5. Fire column (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one handle element (7a) is located at the upper end (5a) of the fuel container (5).

6. Fire column (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the wick (6) is positioned centrally in relation to the cross-section of the inner wall of the outer shell (2).

7. Fire column (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a plurality of wicks (6, 6a) pass through the closed upper end (5a) of the fuel container (5).

8. Fire column (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that wicks (6a) are positioned along an imaginary circle at the upper end (5a) of the fuel container (5).

9. Fire column (1) according to one of the two preceding claims, characterized in that the wicks (6a) positioned along an imaginary circle at the upper end of the fuel container (5a) are evenly distributed on this circle.

10. Fire column (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the outer wall of the base (3) has the shape of a cylinder.

11. Fire column (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the inner wall of the outer shell (2) has the shape of a cylinder.

12. Fire column (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a spiral-shaped air guide element (4) runs helically around the outer wall of the base (3).

13. Fire column (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one support element (8) is positioned in the area of the lower third of the outer wall of the base (3), on which the lower end of the outer shell (2) rests.

14. Fire column (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the outer shell (2) consists of fireproof material, in particular fireproof glass.

15. Fire column (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fire column (1) comprises an extinguishing cover (10).

Images