Split Patio Heater Table for Close Heater Placement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional outdoor patio tables are often round with umbrellas in the middle, making it difficult to position them close to patio heaters for even warmth distribution, as they occupy valuable space and are not easily adjustable or modular for different uses.
Innovation Solution
A patio heater table designed with two identical semi-circular table halves that can be easily assembled around a patio heater using dowel pins and threaded fasteners, featuring removable brace ring segments for stability and ease of fuel tank replacement, adjustable height, and leveling capabilities, allowing for efficient use of space and dual functionality as an umbrella table.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional round patio tables with umbrellas are used, then they provide shade and dining functionality, but they occupy valuable space and make it difficult to position them close to heaters for even warmth distribution
Solution Approach 1:
The table is divided into two identical semi-circular halves that can be assembled around the heater in different configurations. This segmentation allows the table to adapt to heater placement while minimizing space occupation, as the halves can be positioned closely around the heater without requiring a large circular footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The table design incorporates adjustable and removable components including adjustable height legs and removable brace ring segments. This dynamic design allows the table to be reconfigured for different uses (heater table vs. umbrella table) and adjusted to accommodate various heater sizes and uneven surfaces, improving adaptability while maintaining space efficiency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If tables are positioned close to heaters for warmth benefit, then all users can gain equal warmth, but conventional tables cannot be easily adjusted or modular for different uses
Solution Approach 1:
The table consists of two identical semi-circular halves that can be easily assembled around the heater using dowel pins and threaded fasteners. This modular segmentation allows the table to be disassembled and reconfigured for different uses (heater table or umbrella table) without significant complexity, as each half is a self-contained unit with standardized connection mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The table design provides dual functionality by allowing the same modular components to serve as either a heater table or an umbrella table. The removable brace ring segments and adjustable legs enable the table to adapt to different central objects (heater or umbrella), making the device universal and versatile for seasonal changes and different outdoor activities.
3Ease of operation
If conventional tables are used, then they provide stable support, but they are not easily adjustable for uneven surfaces or removable for storage
Solution Approach 1:
The table incorporates adjustable height legs that can be modified to accommodate uneven patio surfaces, ensuring stability in various outdoor conditions. The removable brace ring segments can be detached to reduce the table's footprint for storage or to replace the fuel tank in the heater base, providing ease of operation and storage while maintaining stability during use through the adjustable support mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A patio heater table (10) for encompassing a patio heater (14) consists of a duplicate pair of table sides (20) having a table upper portion with legs (46) that are connected by a permanent brace ring segment (52). The table upper portion is formed with a semi-circular structure (22) made of a peripheral ring (24) and a bisecting chord (28) having a midpoint radial concave portion (30) for avoiding contact with the heater standard, or post, (12). The two table sides mate together and are attached with each side positioned over and around the patio heater. The table includes removable brace ring segments (54) that are attached to the leg permanent brace ring segments providing access to the patio heater for fuel replacement. The table is made of steel or aluminum material and is preferably of welded construction.