Modular Fire Table and Patio Heater for Multi-Function Outdoor Use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing outdoor appliances often fail to multitask and require separate devices for different functions, leading to space inefficiency and storage challenges in outdoor settings like patios and dining areas.
Innovation Solution
A modular fire table and patio heater system that includes a base with a burner, a fire platform, a coupling for a fire column, and a tabletop, allowing for conversion between fire table, decorative torch, and patio heater configurations, with storage and adjustable features for versatility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate outdoor appliances are used to fulfill different functions (heating, cooking, decorative flame), then each function can be performed effectively, but outdoor space becomes crowded and storage of multiple devices becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple outdoor appliance functions (fire table, patio heater, decorative torch) into a single integrated device. The base unit with burner and fire platform serves as the common foundation, while interchangeable components (tabletop, fire column, cooking grate) allow the same base to perform different functions, thereby reducing the number of separate devices needed and freeing up outdoor space.
Solution Approach 2:
The base unit is designed as a universal platform that can support multiple configurations. The standardized coupling mechanism allows different accessories to be attached to the same base, enabling one device to fulfill multiple roles including heating, cooking, and decorative purposes, thus eliminating the need for multiple specialized appliances.
2Area of stationary object
If a single device is used to fulfill multiple roles, then space efficiency is improved, but converting the device between different use cases becomes complex and requires storage of unused accessories
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into a permanent base unit and interchangeable accessory components. The base contains the burner, fuel supply, and coupling mechanism, while separate accessories (tabletop, fire column, cooking grate) can be attached as needed. This segmentation allows for easy conversion between functions by simply removing one accessory and attaching another, without requiring complex reconfiguration of the entire device.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates dynamic reconfigurability through the standardized coupling mechanism that enables quick attachment and detachment of different components. The coupling design allows users to dynamically change the device's function based on immediate needs, transforming it from a static single-function appliance to a dynamic multi-function system that adapts to different use cases.
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 system provides a versatile, space-efficient solution for outdoor spaces by allowing multiple functions with a single device, enhancing both heating and aesthetic capabilities while simplifying storage and use cases.
Implementation Method 1
a burner on the fire platform fueled from the fuel supply
Implementation Method 2
flame from the burner travels into the fire column
Data Source
AI summary
A base supports a fire platform with a burner. A tabletop defines an opening with a contour matching a contour of a top rim of the fire platform and is selectively fitted to the base to create a table surface around the fire platform. A fire column selectively fits to the fire platform such that flame from the burner travels into the fire column.