Outdoor Heater Heat Shield Layout for Wind-Resistant Warmth
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing outdoor heating devices face challenges such as rapid heat dissipation in windy conditions, risk of fire when used under ceilings, and inefficient heat distribution, leading to discomfort for patrons and reduced revenue for hospitality venues.
Innovation Solution
A heating device design featuring a base member with a gas burner, an upper housing, a tabletop, and a hollow heat shield with a tapering profile that directs heated air downwardly, reducing heat loss and providing a safe and efficient heat distribution system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a gas burner is positioned in a raised location above normal standing head height, then the heating coverage area is increased, but the risk of fire and heat damage to structures above increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the gas burner from a vertical raised position to a horizontal position within a recessed cavity at the base level. This dimensional change allows the heating area to extend laterally rather than vertically, increasing coverage radius without elevating the heat source above safe clearance heights for overhead structures
Solution Approach 2:
The gas burner is nested within a recessed cavity in the base member, creating a contained heating zone. This nesting approach confines the flame and heat generation within a protected space, preventing direct exposure to overhead structures while still allowing heat to radiate outward to cover a wide area
2Temperature
If heat is generated in open outdoor conditions, then heating effect is achieved, but heat dissipation to the atmosphere occurs quickly reducing efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the natural upward convection of hot air by incorporating a vertical chimney structure that extends from the base through the tabletop. The heat that would naturally dissipate upward is now channeled through the chimney to provide focused heating at higher levels, converting the harmful upward heat loss into a beneficial heating mechanism for elevated areas
Solution Approach 2:
The chimney structure creates a natural draft effect using thermal buoyancy forces. Hot air rising through the chimney generates a pressure differential that draws in fresh air through intake openings, creating a continuous flow of heated air that efficiently distributes heat throughout the outdoor space without requiring additional energy input
3Power
If gas burners are used in windy conditions, then heating output is maintained, but the burners unintentionally blow-out
Solution Approach 1:
The recessed cavity design provides preliminary protection against wind by creating a sheltered environment for the gas burner. The cavity walls act as a physical barrier that reduces wind velocity and prevents direct wind exposure to the flame, thereby preventing blow-out while maintaining heating output. The chimney structure further protects the flame by providing a enclosed pathway for combustion gases
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The design enhances heat retention and distribution, providing a safer and more effective heating solution that maintains warmth near users, even in windy conditions, while minimizing the risk of fire and injury.
Implementation Method 1
a gas burner mounted in or on the base member
Implementation Method 2
a hollow heat shield having a proximal end located on or near the base member, and a distal end located within the upper housing... the heat shield has a tapering profile with a cross sectional area that decreases between a proximal end located at the base member and a distal end adjacent to the upper housing
Data Source
AI summary
A heating device includes a base member and a gas burner mounted in or on the base member. An upper housing located above the base member and a tabletop mounted above the upper housing. A hollow heat shield having a proximal end located on or near the base member, and a distal end located within the upper housing, and a support member extending between the base member and the upper housing or tabletop. The distal end of the heat shield extends beyond a proximal end of the upper housing, defining a region of vertical overlap between the heat shield and the upper housing.