US20140220293A1 - Covers for heaters and methods thereof - Google Patents
Covers for heaters and methods thereof Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20140220293A1 US20140220293A1 US14/249,073 US201414249073A US2014220293A1 US 20140220293 A1 US20140220293 A1 US 20140220293A1 US 201414249073 A US201414249073 A US 201414249073A US 2014220293 A1 US2014220293 A1 US 2014220293A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- skirt
- cover
- neck
- heater
- neck panel
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24C—DOMESTIC STOVES OR RANGES ; DETAILS OF DOMESTIC STOVES OR RANGES, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- F24C15/00—Details
- F24C15/06—Ornamental features, e.g. grate fronts or surrounds
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24C—DOMESTIC STOVES OR RANGES ; DETAILS OF DOMESTIC STOVES OR RANGES, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- F24C1/00—Stoves or ranges in which the fuel or energy supply is not restricted to solid fuel or to a type covered by a single one of the following groups F24C3/00 - F24C9/00; Stoves or ranges in which the type of fuel or energy supply is not specified
- F24C1/08—Stoves or ranges in which the fuel or energy supply is not restricted to solid fuel or to a type covered by a single one of the following groups F24C3/00 - F24C9/00; Stoves or ranges in which the type of fuel or energy supply is not specified solely adapted for radiation heating
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A41—WEARING APPAREL
- A41D—OUTERWEAR; PROTECTIVE GARMENTS; ACCESSORIES
- A41D31/00—Materials specially adapted for outerwear
- A41D31/04—Materials specially adapted for outerwear characterised by special function or use
- A41D31/08—Heat resistant; Fire retardant
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A41—WEARING APPAREL
- A41D—OUTERWEAR; PROTECTIVE GARMENTS; ACCESSORIES
- A41D31/00—Materials specially adapted for outerwear
- A41D31/04—Materials specially adapted for outerwear characterised by special function or use
- A41D31/10—Impermeable to liquids, e.g. waterproof; Liquid-repellent
- A41D31/102—Waterproof and breathable
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24C—DOMESTIC STOVES OR RANGES ; DETAILS OF DOMESTIC STOVES OR RANGES, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- F24C15/00—Details
- F24C15/10—Tops, e.g. hot plates; Rings
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24C—DOMESTIC STOVES OR RANGES ; DETAILS OF DOMESTIC STOVES OR RANGES, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- F24C15/00—Details
- F24C15/36—Protective guards, e.g. for preventing access to heated parts
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A41—WEARING APPAREL
- A41D—OUTERWEAR; PROTECTIVE GARMENTS; ACCESSORIES
- A41D2300/00—Details of garments
- A41D2300/20—Inserts
- A41D2300/24—Folded inserts
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A41—WEARING APPAREL
- A41D—OUTERWEAR; PROTECTIVE GARMENTS; ACCESSORIES
- A41D2300/00—Details of garments
- A41D2300/30—Closures
- A41D2300/32—Closures using hook and loop-type fasteners
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29L—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASS B29C, RELATING TO PARTICULAR ARTICLES
- B29L2031/00—Other particular articles
- B29L2031/727—Fastening elements
- B29L2031/729—Hook and loop-type fasteners
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D65/00—Wrappers or flexible covers; Packaging materials of special type or form
- B65D65/02—Wrappers or flexible covers
- B65D65/04—Wrappers or flexible covers non-rectangular
- B65D65/08—Wrappers or flexible covers non-rectangular with fastening elements, e.g. slide fasteners
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24C—DOMESTIC STOVES OR RANGES ; DETAILS OF DOMESTIC STOVES OR RANGES, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- F24C1/00—Stoves or ranges in which the fuel or energy supply is not restricted to solid fuel or to a type covered by a single one of the following groups F24C3/00 - F24C9/00; Stoves or ranges in which the type of fuel or energy supply is not specified
- F24C1/08—Stoves or ranges in which the fuel or energy supply is not restricted to solid fuel or to a type covered by a single one of the following groups F24C3/00 - F24C9/00; Stoves or ranges in which the type of fuel or energy supply is not specified solely adapted for radiation heating
- F24C1/10—Stoves or ranges in which the fuel or energy supply is not restricted to solid fuel or to a type covered by a single one of the following groups F24C3/00 - F24C9/00; Stoves or ranges in which the type of fuel or energy supply is not specified solely adapted for radiation heating with reflectors
- F24C1/12—Stoves or ranges in which the fuel or energy supply is not restricted to solid fuel or to a type covered by a single one of the following groups F24C3/00 - F24C9/00; Stoves or ranges in which the type of fuel or energy supply is not specified solely adapted for radiation heating with reflectors of circular shape
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10S428/00—Stock material or miscellaneous articles
- Y10S428/92—Fire or heat protection feature
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10S428/00—Stock material or miscellaneous articles
- Y10S428/92—Fire or heat protection feature
- Y10S428/921—Fire or flameproofing
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T29/00—Metal working
- Y10T29/49—Method of mechanical manufacture
- Y10T29/49826—Assembling or joining
- Y10T29/49947—Assembling or joining by applying separate fastener
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T428/00—Stock material or miscellaneous articles
- Y10T428/24—Structurally defined web or sheet [e.g., overall dimension, etc.]
- Y10T428/24008—Structurally defined web or sheet [e.g., overall dimension, etc.] including fastener for attaching to external surface
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T428/00—Stock material or miscellaneous articles
- Y10T428/24—Structurally defined web or sheet [e.g., overall dimension, etc.]
- Y10T428/24008—Structurally defined web or sheet [e.g., overall dimension, etc.] including fastener for attaching to external surface
- Y10T428/24017—Hook or barb
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T428/00—Stock material or miscellaneous articles
- Y10T428/24—Structurally defined web or sheet [e.g., overall dimension, etc.]
- Y10T428/24628—Nonplanar uniform thickness material
- Y10T428/24669—Aligned or parallel nonplanarities
- Y10T428/24686—Pleats or otherwise parallel adjacent folds
Definitions
- Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to covers for heaters. More specifically, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to covers for patio heaters and methods of operating the same.
- Heaters are often utilized in environments in which an increase in ambient temperature is desired. Restaurants, hotels, catering venues, bars, and other commercial businesses often require heaters in outdoor settings to provide seating and commercial space for patrons who wish to remain outside in temperatures that would otherwise be uncomfortably cold. “Alfresco,” i.e., outdoor, dining has become increasingly popular, and is especially popular in when temperatures are most favorable.
- a patio heater for example, a mushroom heater or umbrella heater
- Patio heaters are designed to bring warmth, comfort, and enjoyment to patrons in colder ambient temperatures.
- Many patio heaters are portable and are easily moved from one area to another to meet the needs of patrons and venues.
- One undesirable result of transporting the heaters is they are often scratched or otherwise damaged during the process of transportation or use in general.
- a cover for a patio heater may comprise a skirt for fitting around a base of the outdoor patio heater, the skirt comprising a three box pleat with pleats inset with mesh fabric for providing ventilation; a welt cord disposed at a top of the skirt; a neck panel for covering a neck portion of the outdoor patio heater; an opening extending between a top portion of the neck panel to a bottom portion of the skirt through the welt cord; and fasteners disposed on opposing sides of the opening on the neck panel and the skirt at intervals running from the top portion of the neck panel to the bottom portion of the skirt.
- a cover for a patio heater may comprise a skirt for fitting around a base of the outdoor patio heater, the skirt comprising a box pleat with a pleat inset with mesh fabric; a support member disposed at a top of the skirt; a neck panel for covering a neck portion of the outdoor patio heater; an opening extending between a top portion of the neck panel to a bottom portion of the skirt through the support member; and fasteners disposed on the neck panel and the skirt at intervals running from the top portion of the neck panel to the bottom portion of the skirt.
- a method for covering a patio heater may comprise providing a cover comprising a skirt for fitting around a base of the outdoor patio heater, the skirt comprising a three box pleat with pleats inset with mesh fabric for providing ventilation; a welt cord disposed at a top of the skirt; a neck panel for covering a neck portion of the outdoor patio heater; an opening extending between a top portion of the neck panel to a bottom portion of the skirt through the welt cord; and fasteners disposed on opposing sides of the opening on the neck panel and the skirt at intervals running from the top portion of the neck panel to the bottom portion of the skirt; placing the cover on the heater; and securing the cover around the heater with the fasteners.
- FIG. 1 depicts a back view of a cover for heaters and a heater in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure
- FIG. 2 depicts a front view of a cover for heaters covering a heater in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure
- FIG. 3 depicts a flowchart of a method of using a cover for heaters in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
- Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to covers for heaters. More specifically, some embodiments of the present disclosure relate to covers for outdoor portable heaters and methods of manufacturing and operating the same. Embodiments of the present disclosure may be applied to nearly any type of existing heating devices. For example, certain embodiments of the present disclosure may be used with electric or gas outdoor patio heaters of different shapes and sizes.
- FIG. 1 depicts a back view of a cover 100 for heaters in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
- the cover 100 may be adapted to cover any type of heating device or heater 200 .
- a patio heater is depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2 , it is contemplated that a cover 100 in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present invention may be adapted to cover alternative types of heaters.
- a cover 100 may be adapted to cover a patio heater, a convection heater, a fan-forced ceramic heater, a panel heater, a space heater, a gas heater, and/or the like.
- the cover 100 may generally comprise a neck panel 102 and a skirt 104 for covering a heater 200 .
- the cover 100 may generally be tailored to cover at least a portion of a heater 200 .
- the neck panel 102 and the skirt 104 are depicted in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 as a single attached unit, it is contemplated that the neck panel 102 and the skirt 104 may be separate pieces or may be detachably attached.
- the cover 100 may be adapted to provide protection for, and improve the aesthetic appearance of, a heater 200 .
- the heater 200 may be any heater suitable for embodiments of the present disclosure.
- the heater 200 may be, for example, a patio heater for providing radiant heat to an area.
- the heater 200 may include a neck 222 and a base 224 , both of which may become damaged during normal use and transportation. For example, the neck 222 and/or base 224 may become scratched and/or dented.
- the cover 100 may provide protection to the neck 222 , the base 224 , and/or other portions of the heater.
- the cover 100 may also improve the aesthetic appearance of the heater 200 .
- the neck 222 and/or base 224 may be made of material that is not aesthetically pleasing.
- the cover 100 may comprise different colors, patterns and/or designs.
- the cover 100 may have images, text, and/or artwork printed thereon, glued or otherwise attached thereto, or sewn into the fabric.
- the cover 100 may not only hide any blemishes the heater 200 may have, but it may also add to the aesthetic appearance of the surrounding area by including aesthetically pleasing elements. As such, by placing the cover 100 on the heater 200 , the aesthetic appearance of the neck 222 and/or base 224 may be improved.
- the cover 100 may comprise decorative elements to improve the appearance of the heater 200 .
- cover may comprise fasteners and/or attachment members 116 , 118 for securing the cover around a heater 200 .
- fastener and/or attachment members 116 , 118 for securing the cover around a heater 200 .
- the fasteners may be disposed on locations near an opening running from the top portion of the neck panel 102 to a bottom portion of the skirt 104 .
- Fasteners may comprise any article for securing the cover 100 to the heater 200 .
- fasteners may be disposed on opposing sides of the opening on the neck panel 102 and the skirt 104 at intervals running from the top portion of the neck panel 102 to the bottom portion of the skirt 104 .
- Fasteners may comprise an article for securing one side of an opening in the cover to another side of the cover, or the like.
- fasteners may comprise articles for attaching the cover 100 directly to the heater 200 .
- the heater 200 and the cover 100 may comprise cooperating fasteners, or the like.
- Fasteners may comprise, for example, hook and loop fasteners, snaps, buttons, magnets, adhesive, adhesive strips, clips, zippers, pins, ties, string ties, fabric ties, plastic ties, rubber ties, and/or the like.
- the neck panel 102 of the cover 100 may comprise one or more fasteners.
- the neck panel 102 of the cover 100 may comprise fasteners comprising one or more of snaps, hook and loop fasteners, adhesive, magnets, zippers, and/or the like.
- the cover 100 may be adapted to fit heaters of various sizes.
- the cover 100 may be adapted to fit over a SunGlo brand of heater.
- the neck panel 102 may comprise a front dart from about 4′′ to about 16′′ in length.
- the front dart may comprise 8′′ in length.
- the neck panel 102 may comprise a 3′′ ⁇ 1′′, or the like, hook and loop fastener disposed at the top hemline in a horizontal and/or vertical orientation. In some embodiments, the neck panel 102 may comprise a 3′′ ⁇ 1′′, or the like, hook and loop fasteners disposed in a vertical and/or horizontal orientation down on the neck panel 102 . In some embodiments, the hook and loop fasteners may be disposed approximately 7′′ apart, or the like. While hook and loop fasteners are described above, alternative fastening means, such as snaps, adhesive, magnets, zippers, and/or the like may be used. In some embodiments, the neck panel 102 may comprise one more fasteners.
- the neck panel 102 may comprise two fasteners, three fasteners, four fasteners, and/or the like.
- the number of fasteners is dependent upon the design of the heater to be covered and/or the size of the heater to be covered.
- the neck panel 102 may comprise a length of approximately 47′′ and a width of approximately 11′′, or the like.
- the skirt 104 may comprise a length of approximately 28′′, or the like.
- the neck panel 102 may comprise a length of approximately 45′′ and a width of approximately 11′′, or the like.
- the skirt 104 may comprise a length of approximately 263 ⁇ 4′′, or the like.
- the neck panel 102 may comprise a length of approximately 47′′ and a width of approximately 15′′, or the like.
- the neck panel 102 may comprise a portion at the top of the neck panel 102 that may be expandable.
- only a portion of the neck panel 102 may be open, not the entire length of the neck panel.
- a portion less than the entire length of the neck panel 102 may be open along a slit and disposed at the top portion of the neck panel for allowing the top portion of the neck panel 102 to open.
- the neck panel 102 of the cover 100 may be adapted to substantially cover the neck 222 of the heater 200 .
- the neck panel 102 and/or other components of the cover 100 may comprise a single textile material, or may comprise several types of material.
- the cover 100 may comprise material may be substantially fire, heat, and/or flame resistant and adapted to resist and/or prevent burning or to prevent starting and/or being consumed by fire while in contact with the heater 200 .
- the cover 100 may remain in place over the heater 200 , even while the heater 200 is activated, when fire, heat, and/or flame resistant material is used.
- the fire, heat, and/or flame resistant material may resist and/or prevent burning and/or prevent starting and/or being consumed by fire, even when the heater 200 is activated and on and the cover 100 is covering and/or attached to the heater 200 .
- the cover 100 may retain its shape and fire, heat, and/or flame resistant attributes after machine washing. For example, if a restaurant patron spills something on the cover 100 , after the cover 100 is washed, it will retain its shape and/or fire, heat, and/or flame resistant attributes.
- the textile material may comprise, for example, 100% polyester that is inherently flame resistant (“IFR”), flame resistant, heat resistant, and/or the like.
- the cover 100 may comprise one or more of polyester, burnstop, twaron, coated nylon, carbon foam, m5 fiber, Kevlar, pyrovatex fr cotton, technora, modacrylic, polybenzimidazole fiber, wool, and/or the like.
- the neck panel 102 may comprise self-fabric that blends the fabric of the neck panel 102 with the skirt 104 .
- the neck panel 102 may be formed of a single piece of textile cut in a shape adapted to substantially cover the neck 222 of the heater 200 .
- the neck panel 102 may be cut in a rectangular shape.
- portions of the fabric and/or mesh included in the cover 100 may comprise flame resistant and/or IFR material.
- portions of the fabric and/or mesh included in the cover 100 may comprise approximately 100% polyester, and/or the like.
- the neck panel 102 may be cut from a larger piece of fabric or produced in the exact dimensions required to fit around the neck 222 of the heater 200 .
- the neck panel 102 may comprise a length in the approximate range of 4′′ to 18′′ and a width in the approximate range of 23.5′′ to 94.′′ In one embodiment, the neck panel 102 may comprise a length of 9.5′′ and a width of 47′′.
- the cover 100 itself may comprise any height suitable for covering a heater 200 .
- the cover 100 may comprise a height in the approximate range of 37′′ to 156′′.
- the cover 100 may comprise a height of 78′′.
- the neck panel 102 may be adapted to fit necks 222 of heaters 200 of various shapes and sizes.
- the neck 222 of a heater 200 may be tapered, convex, concave, curved, jagged, and/or the like.
- the neck may also comprise different fabric patterns.
- the neck may comprise one or more pleats and/ or darts.
- the neck panel 102 is depicted in the figures as a single element, it is contemplated that the neck panel 102 may comprise several pieces attached together.
- the neck panel 102 may comprise a first edge 140 a second edge 142 and a neck attachment member 116 .
- the neck attachment member 116 may be adapted to secure the neck panel 102 to the neck 222 of the heater 200 .
- the neck attachment member 116 may be adapted to attach a first edge 140 of the neck panel 102 to a second edge 142 of the neck panel, such that the neck panel 102 is secured around the surface of the neck 222 of the heater 200 .
- the neck attachment member 116 may comprise a single fastener, or it may comprise several types and/or sets of fasteners.
- the neck attachment member 116 may comprise one or more of hook and loop fasteners, buttons, zippers, snaps, magnets, tapes, adhesives, and/or the like.
- the neck attachment member 116 may be sewn, glued, or otherwise attached to the neck panel 102 .
- the neck attachment member 116 may be sewn to the inside and/or outside surface of the neck panel 102 .
- the neck attachment member 116 may be disposed in one or more locations adapted to secure the neck panel 102 to the neck 222 of the heater.
- the neck attachment member 116 may include a single strip of hook and loop fasteners extending from the top to the bottom of the neck panel 102 .
- the neck attachment member 116 may comprise several hook and loop fasteners.
- the neck attachment member 116 or may comprise a single hook and loop fastener set disposed in the center of the neck panel 102 .
- the neck attachment member 116 may comprise dimensions suitable for securing the neck panel 102 to the neck 222 of the heater.
- the neck attachment member 116 may comprise a hook and loop fastener set with a width in the range of 0.5′′ to 6.′′ In one exemplary embodiment, the neck attachment member 116 may comprise a hook and loop fastener set with a width of 1′′.
- the neck panel 102 may be attached, separate, or detachably attached to the skirt 104 .
- the skirt 104 may comprise a top portion 106 a bottom portion 108 , piping 110 , pleats 112 , a base attachment member 118 , and/or a label 130 .
- the skirt 104 may be of a size suitable for covering a base 224 of a heater.
- the skirt 104 may have an aperture or channel formed therein that may connect with an aperture formed in the neck panel 102 between the first edge 140 and the second edge 142 of the neck panel 102 .
- the skirt 104 may comprise a single textile material, or may comprise several types of material.
- the skirt 104 may comprise the same or similar materials as described above with respect to the neck panel 102 .
- the skirt 104 may include several pieces that are permanently or detachably attached.
- the top portion 106 may be adapted to fit over a top section 226 of the base 224 of the heater 200 .
- the top portion 106 of the cover 100 may comprise a substantially flat annular shape having an aperture adapted to receive a portion of the neck 222 of the heater 200 .
- the top portion 106 may be attached to the neck panel 102 .
- the top portion 106 of the cover 100 may comprise dimensions suitable for covering the top section of the base 224 .
- the top portion 106 of the cover 100 may comprise a width in the approximate range of 2.5′′ to 11′′ with a diameter in the approximate range of 8′′ to 32′′.
- the width may comprise 5.5′′ and the diameter may comprise 16′′.
- the bottom portion 108 may be attached to the top portion 106 and disposed perpendicular to the top portion 106 .
- the bottom portion 108 may comprise dimensions suitable for covering a bottom section 228 of the heater 200 .
- the bottom portion 108 of the skirt 104 may comprise a width in the approximate range of 6′′ to 26′′. In one embodiment, the width of the skirt may be 13′′.
- the height from the top to the bottom of the skirt 104 may comprise any height suitable for covering the base 224 of the heater 200 . In exemplary embodiments, the height of the skirt 104 may be in the approximate range of 13′′ to 56′′. For example the height of the skirt 104 may be 28′′.
- the bottom portion 108 may comprise one or more pleats 112 , which may be box pleats.
- the skirt may also comprise fabric piping 110 .
- the piping 110 may be disposed on the top portion 106 or any other aesthetically pleasing location.
- the piping 110 may be attached to a seam between the top portion 106 and the bottom portion 108 .
- the piping 110 may comprise a circumference of 1 ⁇ 4′′ to 2′′.
- the piping 110 may comprise a circumference of 3 ⁇ 4′′.
- the piping 110 may comprise any piping suitable for use with embodiments of the present disclosure.
- the piping 110 may comprise a portion of folded fabric forming a channel disposed adjacent the seam between the top portion 106 and the bottom portion 108 .
- the piping 110 may also comprise a welt cord disposed within the channel.
- the piping 110 may comprise a support member, or the like.
- a support member may comprise an article that provides support for the structure of the cover and helps maintain the cover's shape while preventing the cover from hugging the base of the heater in a drooped or draped position.
- a support member may comprise a solid support, such as a piece of plastic, wood, metal, and/or the like.
- a support member may comprise a welt cord, a cord made out of fabric, metal, polyester, plastic, wood, natural materials, rope, string, synthetic materials, and/or the like.
- a support member may be attached, embedded, and/or the like to the cover without piping 110 , or the like.
- the piping 110 may be used for enhancement of the base top of the skirt.
- the piping may be approximately 3 ⁇ 8′′ wide, or the like. It is contemplated that piping 110 and/or welt trim may be used on other locations of the cover 100 , such as on or adjacent the pleats 112 and/or on the neck panel 102 .
- the skirt 104 may also comprise one or more pleats 112 made of the same or different materials.
- the pleats 112 may be shown in greater detail in FIG. 2 .
- FIG. 2 depicts a front view of a cover 100 for heaters covering a heater 200 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
- the skirt 104 may comprise three pleats 112 .
- the pleats 112 may be made of the same material or may be made of different materials.
- two pleats may comprise a mesh material to allow for ventilation of the tank and one pleat may comprise a solid fabric.
- three pleats 112 may comprise solid fabric, with two pleats inset with fabric mesh.
- the mesh material and/or the solid fabric may comprise polyester.
- three pleats 112 are depicted in FIG. 2 , any number of pleats suitable for use with the cover 100 is contemplated by and within embodiments of the present disclosure.
- the pleats 112 may comprise any type of pleat suitable for embodiments of the present disclosure.
- at least one of the pleats 112 may comprise a box pleat.
- one or more pleats 112 may comprise accordion pleats, cartridge pleats, fluted pleats, fortuny pleats, honeycomb pleats, knife pleats, organ peats, plissé pleats, rolled pleats, Watteau pleats, and/or the like.
- the neck panel 102 When attached, the neck panel 102 may cover and surround the neck 222 of the heater 200 .
- the base attachment member 118 may generally be similar to the neck attachment member 116 described hereinabove.
- the base attachment member 118 may comprise one or more fastening members suitable for securing the skirt 104 to and/or around the base 224 of the heater.
- the base attachment member 118 may comprise the same or different fastening members as the neck attachment member 116 or any combination of fastening members suitable for use with embodiments of the present disclosure.
- the base attachment member 118 may comprise a series of hook and loop fastening sets, while the neck attachment member 116 may comprise a single hook and loop fastener set running the length of the neck panel 102 .
- the hook and loop fastener sets or other fasteners that make up the base attachment member 118 may be attached to the cover 100 by stitching, gluing, or other attachment in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
- the base attachment member 118 may be sewn on the inside and/or outside surface of the skirt 104 .
- the skirt 104 may also comprise a label 130 or several labels 130 .
- the label 130 may have text, images, logos, and/or the like printed thereon or sewn therein.
- other remaining portions of the cover 100 may be adapted to receive and/or display text, images, logos, and/or the like either printed or displayed with a digital display.
- the cover 100 may comprise electronic components, such as a digital display or sound output device.
- the cover 100 may comprise an LED display, or the like, and/or speakers for displaying and/ or broadcasting content.
- the LED display may display targeted advertisement by identifying a user walking past the cover 100 carrying a unique identifier, such as a radio frequency identification tag.
- the cover 100 may comprise a base layer and an outer cover layer wherein the outer cover layer is removable and detachable from the base layer.
- the outer cover layer may have logos, advertisements, and/or aesthetically appealing images and/or colors printed thereon.
- the cover 100 may comprise a removable panel, pocket, and/or sleeve adapted to receive displays, such as artwork or advertisements.
- the cover 100 may comprise a sleeve or pocket with an outer wall of transparent material, wherein if a display is placed within the sleeve or pocket, the display may be viewed through the outer wall of transparent material.
- FIG. 3 depicts a flowchart of a method of using a cover for heaters in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
- a method of covering a patio heater 300 begins at step 310 where a cover for heaters, such as the one disclosed herein with respect to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 , is provided.
- a burner assembly may comprise a neck panel and a skirt.
- the method 300 of FIG. 3 is described with reference to the cover 100 and the burner 200 described hereinabove with respect to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 .
- the method 300 may be carried out using other embodiments as well.
- the cover 100 may be placed on the heater 200 .
- the neck panel 102 may be placed around the surface of the neck 222 of the heater 200 and skirt 104 may be placed around the surface of the base 224 .
- the neck panel 102 and the skirt 104 may be placed in any order.
- the neck 222 may be placed between the first edge 140 and the second edge 142 of the neck panel.
- the base may be placed in an aperture, channel, opening, or the like formed in the skirt 104 .
- the cover 100 may be secured to the heater 200 .
- the neck panel 102 and the skirt 104 may be placed separately and provide protection to the neck 222 or the base 224 of the heater 200 individually.
- the cover 100 may be secured to the heater 200 .
- the neck attachment member 116 and/or the base attachment member 118 may be secured such that the neck panel 102 and/or the skirt 104 may be secured to the neck 222 and/or the base 224 of the heater.
- the method ends at step 340 .
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Abstract
A cover for a patio heater that may include a skirt for fitting around a base of the outdoor patio heater, the skirt including a three box pleat with pleats inset with mesh fabric for providing ventilation; a welt cord disposed at a top of the skirt; a neck panel for covering a neck portion of the outdoor patio heater; an opening extending between a top portion of the neck panel to a bottom portion of the skirt through the welt cord; and fasteners disposed on opposing sides of the opening on the neck panel and the skirt at intervals running from the top portion of the neck panel to the bottom portion of the skirt.
Description
- This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/348,362, filed Jan. 11, 2012, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/433,270, filed Jan. 17, 2011 the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties as if fully set forth herein.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to covers for heaters. More specifically, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to covers for patio heaters and methods of operating the same.
- 2. Description of the Related Art
- Heaters are often utilized in environments in which an increase in ambient temperature is desired. Restaurants, hotels, catering venues, bars, and other commercial businesses often require heaters in outdoor settings to provide seating and commercial space for patrons who wish to remain outside in temperatures that would otherwise be uncomfortably cold. “Alfresco,” i.e., outdoor, dining has become increasingly popular, and is especially popular in when temperatures are most favorable.
- In order to extend the day and the al fresco dining season, many restaurants and catering venues use patio heaters. A patio heater (for example, a mushroom heater or umbrella heater) is an appliance for generating radiant heat in outdoor environments. Patio heaters are designed to bring warmth, comfort, and enjoyment to patrons in colder ambient temperatures. Many patio heaters are portable and are easily moved from one area to another to meet the needs of patrons and venues. One undesirable result of transporting the heaters is they are often scratched or otherwise damaged during the process of transportation or use in general. Because most of the businesses that employ the use of patio heaters center around entertaining patrons and providing aesthetically pleasing environments, the dents, dings, and scratches on many patio heaters are undesirable because they may detract from the overall aesthetic appearance of the area in which the heaters are placed. In addition, even undamaged patio heaters have little decorative appeal. There currently exists no method of improving the aesthetic appearance of heaters. Thus, there is a need for a cover for heaters that will both protect the surface of these heaters and improve their overall aesthetic appearance, and methods of operating the same.
- Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to covers for heaters. More specifically, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to covers for outdoor patio heaters and methods of operating the same. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, a cover for a patio heater may comprise a skirt for fitting around a base of the outdoor patio heater, the skirt comprising a three box pleat with pleats inset with mesh fabric for providing ventilation; a welt cord disposed at a top of the skirt; a neck panel for covering a neck portion of the outdoor patio heater; an opening extending between a top portion of the neck panel to a bottom portion of the skirt through the welt cord; and fasteners disposed on opposing sides of the opening on the neck panel and the skirt at intervals running from the top portion of the neck panel to the bottom portion of the skirt.
- In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a cover for a patio heater may comprise a skirt for fitting around a base of the outdoor patio heater, the skirt comprising a box pleat with a pleat inset with mesh fabric; a support member disposed at a top of the skirt; a neck panel for covering a neck portion of the outdoor patio heater; an opening extending between a top portion of the neck panel to a bottom portion of the skirt through the support member; and fasteners disposed on the neck panel and the skirt at intervals running from the top portion of the neck panel to the bottom portion of the skirt.
- In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for covering a patio heater may comprise providing a cover comprising a skirt for fitting around a base of the outdoor patio heater, the skirt comprising a three box pleat with pleats inset with mesh fabric for providing ventilation; a welt cord disposed at a top of the skirt; a neck panel for covering a neck portion of the outdoor patio heater; an opening extending between a top portion of the neck panel to a bottom portion of the skirt through the welt cord; and fasteners disposed on opposing sides of the opening on the neck panel and the skirt at intervals running from the top portion of the neck panel to the bottom portion of the skirt; placing the cover on the heater; and securing the cover around the heater with the fasteners.
- So the manner in which the above recited features of the present disclosure can be understood in detail, a more particular description of embodiments of the present disclosure, briefly summarized above, may be had by reference to embodiments, which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is to be noted, however, the appended drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of embodiments encompassed within the scope of the present disclosure, and, therefore, are not to be considered limiting, for the present disclosure may admit to other equally effective embodiments, wherein:
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FIG. 1 depicts a back view of a cover for heaters and a heater in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 2 depicts a front view of a cover for heaters covering a heater in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure; and -
FIG. 3 depicts a flowchart of a method of using a cover for heaters in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. - The headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the description or the claims. As used throughout this application, the words “may” and “can” are used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense (i.e., meaning must). Similarly, the words “include”, “including”, and “includes” mean including but not limited to. To facilitate understanding, like reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate like elements common to the figures.
- Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to covers for heaters. More specifically, some embodiments of the present disclosure relate to covers for outdoor portable heaters and methods of manufacturing and operating the same. Embodiments of the present disclosure may be applied to nearly any type of existing heating devices. For example, certain embodiments of the present disclosure may be used with electric or gas outdoor patio heaters of different shapes and sizes.
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FIG. 1 depicts a back view of acover 100 for heaters in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. Thecover 100 may be adapted to cover any type of heating device orheater 200. Although a patio heater is depicted inFIGS. 1 and 2 , it is contemplated that acover 100 in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present invention may be adapted to cover alternative types of heaters. For example, acover 100 may be adapted to cover a patio heater, a convection heater, a fan-forced ceramic heater, a panel heater, a space heater, a gas heater, and/or the like. In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, thecover 100 may generally comprise aneck panel 102 and askirt 104 for covering aheater 200. Thecover 100 may generally be tailored to cover at least a portion of aheater 200. Although theneck panel 102 and theskirt 104 are depicted inFIG. 1 andFIG. 2 as a single attached unit, it is contemplated that theneck panel 102 and theskirt 104 may be separate pieces or may be detachably attached. - The
cover 100 may be adapted to provide protection for, and improve the aesthetic appearance of, aheater 200. Theheater 200 may be any heater suitable for embodiments of the present disclosure. Theheater 200 may be, for example, a patio heater for providing radiant heat to an area. In accordance with exemplary embodiments, theheater 200 may include aneck 222 and abase 224, both of which may become damaged during normal use and transportation. For example, theneck 222 and/orbase 224 may become scratched and/or dented. By placing thecover 100 on theheater 200, thecover 100 may provide protection to theneck 222, thebase 224, and/or other portions of the heater. - In addition to providing protection, the
cover 100 may also improve the aesthetic appearance of theheater 200. For example, theneck 222 and/orbase 224 may be made of material that is not aesthetically pleasing. In exemplary embodiments, thecover 100 may comprise different colors, patterns and/or designs. In addition, thecover 100 may have images, text, and/or artwork printed thereon, glued or otherwise attached thereto, or sewn into the fabric. Thecover 100 may not only hide any blemishes theheater 200 may have, but it may also add to the aesthetic appearance of the surrounding area by including aesthetically pleasing elements. As such, by placing thecover 100 on theheater 200, the aesthetic appearance of theneck 222 and/orbase 224 may be improved. Thecover 100 may comprise decorative elements to improve the appearance of theheater 200. - In some embodiments, cover may comprise fasteners and/or
attachment members heater 200. As used herein the terms “fastener” and “attachment member” are generally used interchangeably. The fasteners may be disposed on locations near an opening running from the top portion of theneck panel 102 to a bottom portion of theskirt 104. Fasteners may comprise any article for securing thecover 100 to theheater 200. For example, fasteners may be disposed on opposing sides of the opening on theneck panel 102 and theskirt 104 at intervals running from the top portion of theneck panel 102 to the bottom portion of theskirt 104. Fasteners may comprise an article for securing one side of an opening in the cover to another side of the cover, or the like. In some embodiments, fasteners may comprise articles for attaching thecover 100 directly to theheater 200. For example, theheater 200 and thecover 100 may comprise cooperating fasteners, or the like. Fasteners may comprise, for example, hook and loop fasteners, snaps, buttons, magnets, adhesive, adhesive strips, clips, zippers, pins, ties, string ties, fabric ties, plastic ties, rubber ties, and/or the like. - In some embodiments, the
neck panel 102 of thecover 100 may comprise one or more fasteners. For example, theneck panel 102 of thecover 100 may comprise fasteners comprising one or more of snaps, hook and loop fasteners, adhesive, magnets, zippers, and/or the like. In some embodiments, thecover 100 may be adapted to fit heaters of various sizes. For example, thecover 100 may be adapted to fit over a SunGlo brand of heater. In some embodiments theneck panel 102 may comprise a front dart from about 4″ to about 16″ in length. For example, the front dart may comprise 8″ in length. In some embodiments, theneck panel 102 may comprise a 3″×1″, or the like, hook and loop fastener disposed at the top hemline in a horizontal and/or vertical orientation. In some embodiments, theneck panel 102 may comprise a 3″×1″, or the like, hook and loop fasteners disposed in a vertical and/or horizontal orientation down on theneck panel 102. In some embodiments, the hook and loop fasteners may be disposed approximately 7″ apart, or the like. While hook and loop fasteners are described above, alternative fastening means, such as snaps, adhesive, magnets, zippers, and/or the like may be used. In some embodiments, theneck panel 102 may comprise one more fasteners. For example, theneck panel 102 may comprise two fasteners, three fasteners, four fasteners, and/or the like. In some embodiments, the number of fasteners is dependent upon the design of the heater to be covered and/or the size of the heater to be covered. - In some embodiments, the
neck panel 102 may comprise a length of approximately 47″ and a width of approximately 11″, or the like. In some embodiments, theskirt 104 may comprise a length of approximately 28″, or the like. In some embodiments, theneck panel 102 may comprise a length of approximately 45″ and a width of approximately 11″, or the like. In some embodiments, theskirt 104 may comprise a length of approximately 26¾″, or the like. In some embodiments, theneck panel 102 may comprise a length of approximately 47″ and a width of approximately 15″, or the like. In some embodiments, theneck panel 102 may comprise a portion at the top of theneck panel 102 that may be expandable. In some embodiments, only a portion of theneck panel 102 may be open, not the entire length of the neck panel. For example, a portion less than the entire length of theneck panel 102 may be open along a slit and disposed at the top portion of the neck panel for allowing the top portion of theneck panel 102 to open. - The
neck panel 102 of thecover 100 may be adapted to substantially cover theneck 222 of theheater 200. Theneck panel 102 and/or other components of thecover 100 may comprise a single textile material, or may comprise several types of material. In exemplary embodiments, thecover 100 may comprise material may be substantially fire, heat, and/or flame resistant and adapted to resist and/or prevent burning or to prevent starting and/or being consumed by fire while in contact with theheater 200. In embodiments of the present invention, thecover 100 may remain in place over theheater 200, even while theheater 200 is activated, when fire, heat, and/or flame resistant material is used. The fire, heat, and/or flame resistant material may resist and/or prevent burning and/or prevent starting and/or being consumed by fire, even when theheater 200 is activated and on and thecover 100 is covering and/or attached to theheater 200. - The
cover 100 may retain its shape and fire, heat, and/or flame resistant attributes after machine washing. For example, if a restaurant patron spills something on thecover 100, after thecover 100 is washed, it will retain its shape and/or fire, heat, and/or flame resistant attributes. The textile material may comprise, for example, 100% polyester that is inherently flame resistant (“IFR”), flame resistant, heat resistant, and/or the like. For example, thecover 100 may comprise one or more of polyester, burnstop, twaron, coated nylon, carbon foam, m5 fiber, Kevlar, pyrovatex fr cotton, technora, modacrylic, polybenzimidazole fiber, wool, and/or the like. Theneck panel 102 may comprise self-fabric that blends the fabric of theneck panel 102 with theskirt 104. Theneck panel 102 may be formed of a single piece of textile cut in a shape adapted to substantially cover theneck 222 of theheater 200. By way of example, theneck panel 102 may be cut in a rectangular shape. In some embodiments, portions of the fabric and/or mesh included in thecover 100 may comprise flame resistant and/or IFR material. In some embodiments, portions of the fabric and/or mesh included in thecover 100 may comprise approximately 100% polyester, and/or the like. - In exemplary embodiments, the
neck panel 102 may be cut from a larger piece of fabric or produced in the exact dimensions required to fit around theneck 222 of theheater 200. By way of example, theneck panel 102 may comprise a length in the approximate range of 4″ to 18″ and a width in the approximate range of 23.5″ to 94.″ In one embodiment, theneck panel 102 may comprise a length of 9.5″ and a width of 47″. Thecover 100 itself may comprise any height suitable for covering aheater 200. For example, thecover 100 may comprise a height in the approximate range of 37″ to 156″. For example, thecover 100 may comprise a height of 78″. Theneck panel 102 may be adapted to fitnecks 222 ofheaters 200 of various shapes and sizes. For example, theneck 222 of aheater 200 may be tapered, convex, concave, curved, jagged, and/or the like. The neck may also comprise different fabric patterns. For example, the neck may comprise one or more pleats and/ or darts. Although theneck panel 102 is depicted in the figures as a single element, it is contemplated that theneck panel 102 may comprise several pieces attached together. Theneck panel 102 may comprise a first edge 140 asecond edge 142 and aneck attachment member 116. - In exemplary embodiments, the
neck attachment member 116 may be adapted to secure theneck panel 102 to theneck 222 of theheater 200. Theneck attachment member 116 may be adapted to attach afirst edge 140 of theneck panel 102 to asecond edge 142 of the neck panel, such that theneck panel 102 is secured around the surface of theneck 222 of theheater 200. Theneck attachment member 116 may comprise a single fastener, or it may comprise several types and/or sets of fasteners. By way of example, theneck attachment member 116 may comprise one or more of hook and loop fasteners, buttons, zippers, snaps, magnets, tapes, adhesives, and/or the like. Theneck attachment member 116 may be sewn, glued, or otherwise attached to theneck panel 102. For example, theneck attachment member 116 may be sewn to the inside and/or outside surface of theneck panel 102. - The
neck attachment member 116 may be disposed in one or more locations adapted to secure theneck panel 102 to theneck 222 of the heater. For example, theneck attachment member 116 may include a single strip of hook and loop fasteners extending from the top to the bottom of theneck panel 102. In alternative embodiments, theneck attachment member 116 may comprise several hook and loop fasteners. In some embodiments, theneck attachment member 116 or may comprise a single hook and loop fastener set disposed in the center of theneck panel 102. Theneck attachment member 116 may comprise dimensions suitable for securing theneck panel 102 to theneck 222 of the heater. For example, theneck attachment member 116 may comprise a hook and loop fastener set with a width in the range of 0.5″ to 6.″ In one exemplary embodiment, theneck attachment member 116 may comprise a hook and loop fastener set with a width of 1″. Theneck panel 102 may be attached, separate, or detachably attached to theskirt 104. - In exemplary embodiments, the
skirt 104 may comprise a top portion 106 abottom portion 108, piping 110,pleats 112, abase attachment member 118, and/or alabel 130. Theskirt 104 may be of a size suitable for covering abase 224 of a heater. Theskirt 104 may have an aperture or channel formed therein that may connect with an aperture formed in theneck panel 102 between thefirst edge 140 and thesecond edge 142 of theneck panel 102. Theskirt 104 may comprise a single textile material, or may comprise several types of material. For example, theskirt 104 may comprise the same or similar materials as described above with respect to theneck panel 102. Although depicted in a single piece, theskirt 104 may include several pieces that are permanently or detachably attached. - In exemplary embodiments, the
top portion 106 may be adapted to fit over atop section 226 of thebase 224 of theheater 200. Thetop portion 106 of thecover 100 may comprise a substantially flat annular shape having an aperture adapted to receive a portion of theneck 222 of theheater 200. Thetop portion 106 may be attached to theneck panel 102. Thetop portion 106 of thecover 100 may comprise dimensions suitable for covering the top section of thebase 224. By way of example, thetop portion 106 of thecover 100 may comprise a width in the approximate range of 2.5″ to 11″ with a diameter in the approximate range of 8″ to 32″. - In some embodiments, the width may comprise 5.5″ and the diameter may comprise 16″. The
bottom portion 108 may be attached to thetop portion 106 and disposed perpendicular to thetop portion 106. Thebottom portion 108 may comprise dimensions suitable for covering abottom section 228 of theheater 200. Thebottom portion 108 of theskirt 104 may comprise a width in the approximate range of 6″ to 26″. In one embodiment, the width of the skirt may be 13″. The height from the top to the bottom of theskirt 104 may comprise any height suitable for covering thebase 224 of theheater 200. In exemplary embodiments, the height of theskirt 104 may be in the approximate range of 13″ to 56″. For example the height of theskirt 104 may be 28″. Thebottom portion 108 may comprise one ormore pleats 112, which may be box pleats. The skirt may also comprisefabric piping 110. - The piping 110 may be disposed on the
top portion 106 or any other aesthetically pleasing location. For example, the piping 110 may be attached to a seam between thetop portion 106 and thebottom portion 108. The piping 110 may comprise a circumference of ¼″ to 2″. By way of example, the piping 110 may comprise a circumference of ¾″. The piping 110 may comprise any piping suitable for use with embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, the piping 110 may comprise a portion of folded fabric forming a channel disposed adjacent the seam between thetop portion 106 and thebottom portion 108. The piping 110 may also comprise a welt cord disposed within the channel. In some embodiments, the piping 110 may comprise a support member, or the like. A support member may comprise an article that provides support for the structure of the cover and helps maintain the cover's shape while preventing the cover from hugging the base of the heater in a drooped or draped position. A support member may comprise a solid support, such as a piece of plastic, wood, metal, and/or the like. In some embodiments a support member may comprise a welt cord, a cord made out of fabric, metal, polyester, plastic, wood, natural materials, rope, string, synthetic materials, and/or the like. In some embodiments, a support member may be attached, embedded, and/or the like to the cover without piping 110, or the like. The piping 110 may be used for enhancement of the base top of the skirt. In some embodiments, the piping may be approximately ⅜″ wide, or the like. It is contemplated that piping 110 and/or welt trim may be used on other locations of thecover 100, such as on or adjacent thepleats 112 and/or on theneck panel 102. - In exemplary embodiments, the
skirt 104 may also comprise one ormore pleats 112 made of the same or different materials. Thepleats 112 may be shown in greater detail inFIG. 2 .FIG. 2 depicts a front view of acover 100 for heaters covering aheater 200 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. With reference toFIG. 2 , theskirt 104 may comprise threepleats 112. Thepleats 112 may be made of the same material or may be made of different materials. For example, two pleats may comprise a mesh material to allow for ventilation of the tank and one pleat may comprise a solid fabric. Alternatively, threepleats 112 may comprise solid fabric, with two pleats inset with fabric mesh. In exemplary embodiments, the mesh material and/or the solid fabric may comprise polyester. Although threepleats 112 are depicted inFIG. 2 , any number of pleats suitable for use with thecover 100 is contemplated by and within embodiments of the present disclosure. Thepleats 112 may comprise any type of pleat suitable for embodiments of the present disclosure. By way of example, at least one of thepleats 112 may comprise a box pleat. In alternative embodiments, one ormore pleats 112 may comprise accordion pleats, cartridge pleats, fluted pleats, fortuny pleats, honeycomb pleats, knife pleats, organ peats, plissé pleats, rolled pleats, Watteau pleats, and/or the like. When attached, theneck panel 102 may cover and surround theneck 222 of theheater 200. - Referring again to
FIG. 1 , in exemplary embodiments, thebase attachment member 118 may generally be similar to theneck attachment member 116 described hereinabove. Thebase attachment member 118 may comprise one or more fastening members suitable for securing theskirt 104 to and/or around thebase 224 of the heater. Thebase attachment member 118 may comprise the same or different fastening members as theneck attachment member 116 or any combination of fastening members suitable for use with embodiments of the present disclosure. By way of example, thebase attachment member 118 may comprise a series of hook and loop fastening sets, while theneck attachment member 116 may comprise a single hook and loop fastener set running the length of theneck panel 102. The hook and loop fastener sets or other fasteners that make up thebase attachment member 118 may be attached to thecover 100 by stitching, gluing, or other attachment in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. - In some embodiments, the
base attachment member 118 may be sewn on the inside and/or outside surface of theskirt 104. Theskirt 104 may also comprise alabel 130 orseveral labels 130. Thelabel 130 may have text, images, logos, and/or the like printed thereon or sewn therein. In some embodiments, other remaining portions of thecover 100 may be adapted to receive and/or display text, images, logos, and/or the like either printed or displayed with a digital display. In some embodiments, thecover 100 may comprise electronic components, such as a digital display or sound output device. For example, thecover 100 may comprise an LED display, or the like, and/or speakers for displaying and/ or broadcasting content. In some embodiments, the LED display may display targeted advertisement by identifying a user walking past thecover 100 carrying a unique identifier, such as a radio frequency identification tag. In some embodiments, thecover 100 may comprise a base layer and an outer cover layer wherein the outer cover layer is removable and detachable from the base layer. In some embodiments, the outer cover layer may have logos, advertisements, and/or aesthetically appealing images and/or colors printed thereon. In some embodiments, thecover 100 may comprise a removable panel, pocket, and/or sleeve adapted to receive displays, such as artwork or advertisements. For example, thecover 100 may comprise a sleeve or pocket with an outer wall of transparent material, wherein if a display is placed within the sleeve or pocket, the display may be viewed through the outer wall of transparent material. -
FIG. 3 depicts a flowchart of a method of using a cover for heaters in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, a method of covering apatio heater 300 begins atstep 310 where a cover for heaters, such as the one disclosed herein with respect toFIG. 1 andFIG. 2 , is provided. In embodiments, such a burner assembly may comprise a neck panel and a skirt. For convenience, themethod 300 ofFIG. 3 is described with reference to thecover 100 and theburner 200 described hereinabove with respect toFIG. 1 andFIG. 2 . Themethod 300 may be carried out using other embodiments as well. - At
step 320, thecover 100 may be placed on theheater 200. In exemplary embodiments, theneck panel 102 may be placed around the surface of theneck 222 of theheater 200 andskirt 104 may be placed around the surface of thebase 224. Theneck panel 102 and theskirt 104 may be placed in any order. Theneck 222 may be placed between thefirst edge 140 and thesecond edge 142 of the neck panel. The base may be placed in an aperture, channel, opening, or the like formed in theskirt 104. After theneck panel 102 and/or theskirt 104 are placed, thecover 100 may be secured to theheater 200. In alternative embodiments, theneck panel 102 and theskirt 104 may be placed separately and provide protection to theneck 222 or thebase 224 of theheater 200 individually. - At
step 340, thecover 100 may be secured to theheater 200. Theneck attachment member 116 and/or thebase attachment member 118 may be secured such that theneck panel 102 and/or theskirt 104 may be secured to theneck 222 and/or thebase 224 of the heater. After at least a part of thecover 100 is secured to theheater 200, the method ends atstep 340. - While the foregoing is directed to embodiments of the present invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. It is also understood that various embodiments described herein may be utilized in combination with any other embodiment described, without departing from the scope contained herein.
Claims (20)
1. A cover for an outdoor patio heater comprising:
a skirt for fitting around a base of the outdoor patio heater, the skirt comprising a three box pleat with pleats inset with mesh fabric for providing ventilation;
a welt cord disposed at a top of the skirt;
a neck panel for covering a neck portion of the outdoor patio heater;
an opening extending between a top portion of the neck panel to a bottom portion of the skirt through the welt cord; and
fasteners disposed on opposing sides of the opening on the neck panel and the skirt at intervals running from the top portion of the neck panel to the bottom portion of the skirt.
2. The cover of claim 1 , wherein the skirt is attached to the neck panel.
3. The cover of claim 1 , wherein the skirt further comprises:
a skirt top portion having a substantially flat annular shape having an aperture formed therein, the aperture adapted to surround at least a portion of the neck panel; and
a skirt bottom portion attached to the top portion, the bottom portion disposed perpendicular to the top portion.
4. The cover of claim 1 , wherein fasteners comprise hook and loop fasteners.
5. The cover of claim 1 , wherein the cover comprises flame resistant material.
6. The cover of claim 5 , wherein the flame resistant material comprises at least one of polyester, burnstop, twaron, coated nylon, carbon foam, m5 fiber, Kevlar, pyrovatex fr cotton, technora, modacrylic, polybenzimidazole fiber, or wool.
7. The cover of claim 1 , wherein the mesh fabric comprises polyester.
8. A cover for an outdoor patio heater comprising:
a skirt for fitting around a base of the outdoor patio heater, the skirt comprising a box pleat with a pleat inset with mesh fabric;
a support member disposed at a top of the skirt;
a neck panel for covering a neck portion of the outdoor patio heater;
an opening extending between a top portion of the neck panel to a bottom portion of the skirt through the support member; and
fasteners disposed on the neck panel and the skirt at intervals running from the top portion of the neck panel to the bottom portion of the skirt.
9. The cover of claim 8 , wherein the support member comprises a fabric piping disposed on an outer edge of a top portion of the skirt.
10. The cover of claim 9 , wherein the fabric piping comprises:
a portion of folded fabric forming a channel disposed adjacent a seam disposed on the top portion of the skirt; and
a welt cord disposed within the channel.
11. The cover of claim 8 , wherein the skirt further comprises:
a skirt top portion having a substantially flat annular shape having an aperture formed therein, the aperture adapted to surround at least a portion of the neck panel; and
a skirt bottom portion attached to the top portion, the skirt bottom portion disposed perpendicular to the skirt top portion.
12. The cover of claim 8 , wherein fasteners comprise hook and loop fasteners.
13. The cover of claim 8 , wherein the mesh fabric comprises polyester.
14. The cover of claim 8 , wherein the flame resistant material comprises at least one of burnstop, twaron, coated nylon, carbon foam, m5 fiber, Kevlar, pyrovatex fr cotton, technora, modacrylic, polybenzimidazole fiber, and wool.
15. A method for covering a patio heater comprising:
providing a cover comprising:
a skirt for fitting around a base of the outdoor patio heater, the skirt comprising a box pleat with pleats inset with mesh fabric for providing ventilation;
a welt cord disposed at a top of the skirt;
a neck panel for covering a neck portion of the outdoor patio heater;
an opening extending between a top portion of the neck panel to a bottom portion of the skirt through the welt cord; and
fasteners disposed on opposing sides of the opening on the neck panel and the skirt at intervals running from the top portion of the neck panel to the bottom portion of the skirt;
placing the cover on the heater; and
securing the cover around the heater with the fasteners.
16. The method of claim 15 , wherein the skirt is attached to the neck panel.
17. The method of claim 15 , wherein fasteners comprise hook and loop fasteners.
18. The method of claim 15 , wherein the cover comprises polyester.
19. The method of claim 15 , wherein the cover comprises flame resistant material.
20. The method of claim 19 , wherein the flame resistant material comprises at least one of burnstop, twaron, coated nylon, carbon foam, m5 fiber, Kevlar, pyrovatex fr cotton, technora, modacrylic, polybenzimidazole fiber, and wool.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US14/249,073 US20140220293A1 (en) | 2012-01-11 | 2014-04-09 | Covers for heaters and methods thereof |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US13/348,362 US8734928B1 (en) | 2011-01-17 | 2012-01-11 | Decorative cover for outdoor patio heaters |
US14/249,073 US20140220293A1 (en) | 2012-01-11 | 2014-04-09 | Covers for heaters and methods thereof |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/348,362 Continuation-In-Part US8734928B1 (en) | 2011-01-17 | 2012-01-11 | Decorative cover for outdoor patio heaters |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20140220293A1 true US20140220293A1 (en) | 2014-08-07 |
Family
ID=51259443
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US14/249,073 Abandoned US20140220293A1 (en) | 2012-01-11 | 2014-04-09 | Covers for heaters and methods thereof |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
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US (1) | US20140220293A1 (en) |
Cited By (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
USD812205S1 (en) | 2015-05-21 | 2018-03-06 | Bond Manufacturing Co., Inc. | Column heater |
USD813362S1 (en) | 2015-05-21 | 2018-03-20 | Bond Manufacturing Co., Inc. | Patio heater |
USD813999S1 (en) | 2015-05-21 | 2018-03-27 | Bond Manufacturing Co., Inc. | Patio heater |
US20180156466A1 (en) * | 2016-12-01 | 2018-06-07 | Robert Spalding | Heat Deflecting Assembly |
US10371386B2 (en) | 2015-05-29 | 2019-08-06 | Bond Manufacturing Co., Inc. | Column heater with improved heat output |
US11221147B2 (en) * | 2019-06-04 | 2022-01-11 | P.R.E. Sales Inc. | Collapsible radiative heater assembly and methods for assembly and use |
US11920798B2 (en) | 2021-11-12 | 2024-03-05 | Solo Brands, Llc | Heat deflector |
Citations (4)
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US5694866A (en) * | 1994-09-21 | 1997-12-09 | Muller; John J. | Outdoor furniture covers and covering methods |
US20020004114A1 (en) * | 2000-06-01 | 2002-01-10 | Leaphart Edward Wright | Protective cover article |
USD489125S1 (en) * | 2003-05-14 | 2004-04-27 | Alison Mary Drake | Cover for a propane heater |
US20040231053A1 (en) * | 2003-05-24 | 2004-11-25 | Masoncup John F. | Bed skirt and methods of manufacture and use |
-
2014
- 2014-04-09 US US14/249,073 patent/US20140220293A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US5694866A (en) * | 1994-09-21 | 1997-12-09 | Muller; John J. | Outdoor furniture covers and covering methods |
US20020004114A1 (en) * | 2000-06-01 | 2002-01-10 | Leaphart Edward Wright | Protective cover article |
USD489125S1 (en) * | 2003-05-14 | 2004-04-27 | Alison Mary Drake | Cover for a propane heater |
US20040231053A1 (en) * | 2003-05-24 | 2004-11-25 | Masoncup John F. | Bed skirt and methods of manufacture and use |
Cited By (11)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
USD812205S1 (en) | 2015-05-21 | 2018-03-06 | Bond Manufacturing Co., Inc. | Column heater |
USD813362S1 (en) | 2015-05-21 | 2018-03-20 | Bond Manufacturing Co., Inc. | Patio heater |
USD813999S1 (en) | 2015-05-21 | 2018-03-27 | Bond Manufacturing Co., Inc. | Patio heater |
USD841789S1 (en) | 2015-05-21 | 2019-02-26 | Bond Manufacturing Co., Inc. | Column heater |
USD850591S1 (en) | 2015-05-21 | 2019-06-04 | Bond Manufacturing Co., Inc. | Patio heater |
USD886257S1 (en) | 2015-05-21 | 2020-06-02 | Bond Manufacturing Co., Inc. | Patio heater |
USD890315S1 (en) | 2015-05-21 | 2020-07-14 | Bond Manufacturing Co., Inc. | Patio heater |
US10371386B2 (en) | 2015-05-29 | 2019-08-06 | Bond Manufacturing Co., Inc. | Column heater with improved heat output |
US20180156466A1 (en) * | 2016-12-01 | 2018-06-07 | Robert Spalding | Heat Deflecting Assembly |
US11221147B2 (en) * | 2019-06-04 | 2022-01-11 | P.R.E. Sales Inc. | Collapsible radiative heater assembly and methods for assembly and use |
US11920798B2 (en) | 2021-11-12 | 2024-03-05 | Solo Brands, Llc | Heat deflector |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |