US2257396A - Top structure for cookstoves - Google Patents

Description

Sept. 30, 1941. c.- E. PARKER TOPA STRUCTURE Fon cooKsTovEs Filduay 11, 1939 s sheets-sheet 1 fnl/elder i ClaudeEPar/r Sept. 30, 1941. c. E. PARKER TOP STRUCTURE VFOR cooKsTOvEs Filed May l1, 1959 3 Sheets-Sheet 2x 'Sept 30, 1941.` c. ELPARKR' 1 2,257,396'

To? STRUCTURE FOR `Cooxs'rovvsl Y Filed May 1l,` 1939 3 Sheets-Sheet 3 y -OZgydeE'Par/ter am fg@ .uw

Patented Sept. 30, 1941 UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE Products Corporation, Chicago, Ill.,

I tion of Illinois l Corm- Application May 11, 1939, Serial No. 272,984 I 18 Claims.

'I'he invention pertains to gas cookstoves and has particular reference to a new and improved cooking top for such stoves.

The primary object of the invention is the production of a new and improved cooking top for gas cookstoves,` which partakes of the characteristics of both the open and closed types in that it eii'ectually conceals the burners, mixing tubes and other unsightly parts as in the case of tops of the closed type, and at the same time provides for the effectual application of the heat of the burners directly to cooking utensils supported upon the top, as in tops of the open type.

A further object of the invention is to provide in combination with a main cooking top panel having a plurality of openings therein, auxiliary top units substantially closing the openings in the top panel so as to cooperate therewith in the formation of a substantially vclosed top wall, and fashioned to provide vertically shallow chambers beneath the cooking utensils adapted to receive and confine the flames of the underlying burners close to the utensil bottoms so as to utilize to the utmost advantage the heat of the burners.

An'other object is to provide a new and improved cooking top which is especially constructed to minimize loss of heat by conduction or radiation whereby to intensify the application of the heat ofthe burners to the cooking utensils.

Still another object isto provide a combination burner cover and heat intensifying unit `which harmonizes in appearance with the top panel, which is capable of withstanding without deterioration the intense heat of the burner flames, and which causes any food deposits on the top face of theunit to be burned so completely as to permit easy removal and maintenance of the top in a sanitary and attractive condition.

A further object is to provide .an improved burner and a heat intensifying cover unit therefor adapted `to effect a more uniform distribution of heat to the entire area of the bottom of a cooking utensil.

Another object of the invention is to provide a burner structure embodying a novel arrangement for supplying secondary air to both the inner and outer sides of flames issuing from generally peripherally disposed ports in the burner head and of such character as to retain relatively constant conditions of combustion, irrespective of the presence or absence of a utensil above the structure.

Still another object is to provide a burner structure embodying an open center burner head and an overlying superstructure including utensil (cl. 12s-39) i supporting fingers locatedlintermediate spaced groups of fuel emission apertures in the burner periphery so as to be out of the direct path of names from the latter, and so correlated with the burner as to direct and control an updraft of secondary airA rising through the open center of the burner, and feed it to flames, the ilow of such air beneath the fingers also serving to cool and thereby protect the same.

The objects of the invention above set forth, together with other and ancillary advantages are attained by the construction and arrangement shown by way of illustration in the accompanying drawings forming part hereof, in which:

Figure 1 is a fragmentary plan View showing one end portion of a top structure embodying the invention.

Fig. 271s a similar view showing one of the burner openings with the auxiliary top unit removed and exposing the underlying burner.

Fig. 3 is a fragmentary longitudinal section taken substantially in the plane of line 3--3 of Fig. 1, the section being taken on a larger scale.

V Fig. 4 is a fragmentary plan view showing one of the auxiliary top units on a larger scale than shown in Fig. 1, such unit being in position in an opening in the top panel.

Fig. 5 is a fragmentary vertical sectional view taken approximately in the plane of line 5-5 of Fig. 4 and illustrating the manner of supporting the burner and auxiliary top unit.

Fig. 6 is a fragmentary edge elevational view of the structure shown in Fig. 5 but showing a supporting lug on the top panel in section.

Fig. 7 is a fragmentary plan view of one of the mixing tubes and illustrating the construction of the inner end portion thereof.

Fig. 8 is a view in edge elevation of one of the auxiliary top units and the burner supported in position in the main top panel, the latter being shown in section.

Fig. 9 is a transverse sectional view through the auxiliary top unit and burner taken approximately in the plane of line 9 9 of Fig. 4 and showing the formation of a chamber between the top unit and the bottom of a utensil Within which the burner flames are confined.

Fig. 10 is a perspectivce view of Vmetallic carrier for the ceramic elements composing the auxiliary top unit.

Fig. 11 is a perspective view of one of the burners.

Figs. 12 and 13 are perspective views showing respectively two forms of ceramic elements comprlsing the auxiliary top unit.

'I'he improved cooldng top comprises.' in general, a main top panel -III having a plurality of openings II therein disposed ab'ove .burners I2, and auxiliary top units I3 substantially lling the openings II but providing for the passage thereingof vitric material has been found to be particularly effective. Accordingly in the preferredl Y embodimentof the invention each auxiliary top unit comprises a ceramic hearth-like structure through of the burner llames for direct application to the bottoms ofthe utensils. In the pres-- ent instance one end of a cooking top is"shown.

supported substantially in the plane of the top panel II! and cooperating with' an overlying cooking utensil to define a vertically shallow combus- I vtion chamber c. For convenience in manufacturhaving front and rear burners with auxiliary top 5 units of 'a diameter corresponding to that-of cooking utensils of good size. The preferred relative proportioning of the parts is indicated by the representation in Fig. 9 of a utensil'a of'a diameter of 'eight inches. Y-

The burners I2 are ofthe Bunsen type, receiving-a supply of mixed air andfg'as from a suit-.- able source.

ingfthe ceramic structure or hearth is composed' of a pluralityof separate sections coacting to provide a peripheral shell I3 and a central cap I3,

the various elements being mounted 'upon'a metallic carrier so as to constitute a unitary assem- Herein the burnershave supply pipes or mixing tubes I4 and II each permanently connected at itsinner end to the bottom of a hollow burner head and provided at its outer end with an air mixing housing IB equipped with adjustablevalves or shutters I6 and-l receiving a supply of fuel gas under valve. control in any. suitable or preferred way.

in form A(Figs. 2 and 11). it is shaped'to radialribs. I3c projecting 'upwardlyfrom the top InV the presenti lnstance eachburner head is generally Vtriangular provide three arms II with a` central portion havi-l ing three air openings I8.` The arms provide three arcuate outwardly facing 'sides drilled to provide the principal outlet for the gaseous mixture. comprising three horizontalirows offuel discharge ports I9. The auxiliary top units I3 are especially constructedfor the performance of twoimportant functions', of wlfiichv the first is `to provide indivvidual covers cooperating with'the main top panel I0 in the formation olla substantially closed cooking top, and the second to intensifythe application of the heat o f the burners tn the cocking utensils. Accordingly, van important featurel in the constructionof each auxiliary topunitisA the provision of va wall structure aperturedj-for the passage of the burner flames and havingv a smooth and durable top facing which har'monizs in appearance with'. the top panel, isl substan tially impervious to the absorption of liquids. and is capable of resisting effectively stains and discoloration. 'The apertured wall structure consti-f'.

tutes in effect 4a hearthbetween whichY and the bottom of an Voverlying utensil. is defined .a vertlcally shallow combustion chamber serving to confine' the lburner flames for the effectual' applicaoverlying' the burner. -j -The ceramic elements are especially conbly adapted for easy removal from the maintop panel whendesired as for purposes of cleaning. The units- I3 are preferably circular in form andare' suitably supported inthe .openings II v of corresponding shape in the` main top panel.

VTo provide a multiplicity of heat radiating elements the peripheral shell I3v is formed with an upper ilu-ted surface forming in this instance face of the shell andarranged s o as to be lapped by the undersides of the flames issuingY from the burnersoas to be rendered incandescent,` as hereinafterfmore-fully described. As shown in Fig.v 9,-the innerend portions of the ribs l3 are made extremely low and only the outerv end por-v tions are of suilicien't' height to project into the flames. Asbest seen in Figs.v 3 and 4, each ofthe units lills composed of `six sections in the form of separate ceramic elements including -three simif lar peripheral segments 20 of generally elliptical' form andV three relatively narrow radial arms 2l.

Y The latter are respectively interposed between the segments 20 and their outerend portions coact with the segments to formja continuous perlmetric zone constituting the outer peripheral The inner end portions of the arms cooperate to form the centra'lspider-like cap ISP structed s o as to be capable of withstanding vheat tion of the heat thereof to the'.uten sil. Accordingly, 'it is of vital consequence that the top fac--A ing be adapted to witl 1stand'without deterioration the intenseheat of the flames thus conlined `between. such top facing and the bottom of the utensil. j -Another important feature is vtlhe provision beneath th'etop facing of a Iayer'of 4heat-insulating material serving tol reduce-to a minimumthe loss of heat'by dissipation to the and impact shocks. To this end each element -comprises a` body or base 22 of tough relatively porous refractorymaterial of lowheatlco'nduc- Y Vtivity, and a thin coating or top facing 22'l of-'Q 4vitric material fused onto the base at a 'high tem- -z 'perature as, for example, 2600 F.v Thebase material lendsstrengthand durability to the structure, and the vitric coating provides a glazed .sur-

-face which is impervious to liquid an'awnl not stain -or become discolored in use. Moreover i-t ishighly resistant to wearor abrasion, is capable. ,ofbelng cleaned easily,fand constitutes an effec tive 'heat reflecting surface.'

associated partsv of the stove structure and ton.

the surrounding atrmisphere- Finally each unit is constructed to provide a multiplicity 'ofradiating elements adapted to be heated by .the vburner llames to al state of'incandescence and serving.

topromote complete combustion as welles to augment the application of heat. to an overlying utensil.

In the AYprovision of a wallor hearth having a top facing with an underlyinglayer of insulating material for the purposes above set forth, a ceramic structure comprising a' base or b odyof rel-'g atively porous refractory material and a top fao- The metallic carrierfor supporting-the ceramic elements!!! and12| ln assembled relation comprises in" the present' embodiment (see Fig. 10) l a thlnnarrow peripheral ring 23 having inwardly projecting portions 24 apertured as Aat 25 for light'- ness in construction and coacting' with the ring to support the-,peripheral segments 20. -Midway l between the apertured portions 24 are narrow. radial fingers 26 (Fig. 3)` underlying'and supporting ther'adial ceramic arms 2 I. f The means'forsuppor-ting the utensils are preferablymade as apart of the auxiliary top unit I3, although it will be understood that if desired,

` separatel utensil supports may` be provided in' aclcordance with Well known practice. As herein shown, the utensil supports arecomposed in part of ribs 21 formed integral with the radial-ceramic arms ZIMat the inner 'en ds thereof, and in'part by metallic arms 22 cast integral with the carrier ring and providing extensions of the ribs 2 1. The location of the utensil supports 2l above the ceramic arms 2I is advantageous in that the supports are not impinged upon by the burner flames and iqterpose no obstruction in the paths of the names as in conventional stoves.

Each of the utensil-supporting arms 2| (Figs.

3, 4 and 10) is formed on the upper end of an upright standard 2l and one end thereof overlies the-outer portion of one of the radial ceramic arms 2| so as to vform a continuation of the rib 21. The other end'of the arm projects radially outward in overlying relationto the top panel Aso Fig. 9, theceramic arms 2| are grooved on their undersides to receive upwardly oifset inner end portions of the fingers 25, the outer ends of the fingers being received in recesses 2| formed in the underside oi the ring 2l. The ceramic arms are heid against outward movement by the standards2l and against inward movement by the offset shoulder portions of the fingers.

In order that the segmental -or peripheral elements 2l may also be secured in position by the fingers 25. the ends of these elements 2|) are rabbeted as at 3|* (Fig. 8) for interlocking engagement with the oppositev sides of the radial arms 2|. Also the carrier ring 23 is provided with `a peripheral flange 34 engaging in grooves 35 in the outer peripheral edge portions of the segments 22 to retain the latter against radial movement in an outwarddirection. Movement in the opposite or Vinward direction is prevented by abutment with the sides of the arms 2| at the outer ends of the latter.

It will be seen that the metallic carrier for the ceramic-structure wholly underlies theV same so that no metal parts of the unit I2, except for the supports 22, are exposed. To receive the standards 25 the ends of the ceramic arms 2| are suitably` notched.

As `above set forth the auxiliary top units I3 are apertured for the passage of the flames of the underlying burners. Preferably` the openings provided for-this purpose are so correlated with the burner proper that the latter is substantially concealed from view, with the burner outlet ports I! disposed in underlyingrelation to the ceramic arms 2| so that the latter guard the ports against the entry of spilt-over liquids. Also the burner ports are so arranged relative to the opening in the structure that the flames issuing from the burner project laterally outward in close proximity to the peripheral shell of the cover. Preferably the discharge ends of the ports I5 are disposed in a horizontal plane above the inner edges of the segments 20 (see Fig. 9) so that ames f issuing from the ports project outwardly above the top faces of the segments.

In the present embodiment each auxiliary top unit I3 has three generally arcuate slot-s 3l (Fig. 4) each defined by the inner edge of one of the ceramic segments 2l and by the lower side edges of two of the radial ceramic arms 2|. As best seen in Fig. 9, the top faces of the segments 2D slope gently downward and inward toward the burner, and the radial arms are positioned horizontally with their top faces substantially in the plane of the outer edge portions of the segments,

with the side faces of the-arms well above the inner edges of the segments. By this arrangement the radial arms, together with the utensil supports 21, 2l, constitute division members dividing the combustion chamber c into three generally elliptical spaces having inlet openings at their inner edges formed by the slots 22 and outlet passages 25 defined by the outer portions of the segments and by the bottom of an overlying utensil. The outlet passages are preferably restricted at their outer ends by arcuate rims 4l shaped to deflect the discharging gases upwardly toward the utensil bottom. Also it will be seen from Figs. 4 and 9 that the outlet passages 25 are relatively longer and narrower than the inlet openings formed by the ame slots 35.

In addition to the openings provided by the slots 25, each of the auxiliary top units has a central opening 4I defined by the inner` ends of the radial arms 2|. Through this opening flames `project from three radial rows of port holes 42 centrally of the burner, orfrom a central simmering burner (notshown) which may be provided if desired. 'I'he ends of the radial arms are spaced a short distance apart to form radial passages 43 establishing communication between the central opening 4| and the arcuate flame slot 3l, 'the burner being provided with radial gas discharge slots 44 positioned centrally of the passages 42 for the purpose of conducting a lighting flame between the outer and inner outlet ports I5 and 42.

In the present instance both the auxiliary top .units and the burners I2 are independently supported by the main top panel I0 through the medium of a plurality of lugs projecting inwardly from a flange 46 depending from the top panel. The ends of the burner arms are reduced in width to form tongues 41 resting upon a pair of circumferentially spaced lugs and to insure proper positioning of the burner, the lugs 45 are notched to. receive the outer ends of ribs 48 formed on the undersides of the burner arms. A portion of the burner head weight is also carried by the manifold at the front of the` stove (Fig. l) and to which the burner heads are connected by suitable supply conduits as heretofore described.

The auxiliary top unit also rests upon the lugs I 45 and additionally upon an intermedi-ate lug 45'. The lugs 45 are made of a width adjacent the flange 46 somewhat greater than the tongues 41 so as to be engaged -by the bottom of the carrier ring 2l at opposite sides of the recesses 3|, the latter being of a depth adapted' to receive the tongues 41. 1f desired, the inner ends of the radial ceramic arms 2| may be supported by engagement of the fingers 26 with upstanding lugs 48* cut integral with the burner. In addition to the lugs 45 and 45e-a pluralit of lugs 42` are provided on the flange 46. Normally these lugs 48 are not engaged by the carrier ring but merely underlie the same with a slightclearance between them so as to be engaged only in the event of unusual pressure or weight on the auxiliary top unit at one side of its center. The unit-supporting lug 45l positioned midway between the notched lugs 45 (Fig. 2) terminates short of the corresponding burner arm to facilitate the assembly of the parts.

Referringnow to Figs. 2, 3 and 7 the construction of the burner I2 in its connection with the supply pipe I4` will be understood. The burner is preferably designed to effect a uniform distribution of the heat of the burner to the cooking 4 g utensil. As already indicated it is of generally triangularform having three radial arms I1 providing three "external sides in which are drilled the three rows of ports I9. By `making the sides arcuate in form, thecentral ones of each row of ports I9 are positioned closer to the center ofthe burner. `As shown each row of ports I9 extends throughout the entire length of an arcuf fate side of the burner to form a large burner, for

example, 12,000 B. t. u. capacity. In the case of burners of lower rated capacity, say 9,000 B. t. u. s, a few of the lports at each end of the row may be omitted. Thus the burners are of identical' construction in either casev excepting only that the number o1' port holes is varied.

Each hollow burner arm I1 -communicatesy at its innerl end with one of threev ,chambers 59 respectively registering at their undersides with three intercommunicating chambers 5I Aformed in the head 52 at the inner end of the mixing tube I4 or Il'.' the two heads being secured together by means of screws 59. Between the chambers 50 ofthe burner, the central air openings I8 well as to the intensity of its application is the radiant character of the auxiliary top unit obtained by the provision of the radiating elements .disposed closely adjacent the high temperature zone `immediately beneath the utensil bottom. As hereinbefore indicated these elements take the form of radial ribsl I 3 whichare closely spaced and project upwardly from the top faces of the segmental elements 20 a distance such that their'upper edges are ,disposed directly in the are formed, which openings communicate at` l their lower endswith a central star-shaped opening 54 in the head 52of the mixing tube. Through the `central airpassage thus formed, secondary air is supplied to the three radial rows of port sions .S5-from each ,of the chambers 50:01 the burner head, the port holes being in each-instance inclined upwardly and inwardly so as to path ofthe tip portions of the flames issuing from the burner but out of 'the paths of the central oxidizing .cones of the flames. In addition vthe inner ends of the ceramic arms are shaped to provide radiating eiementsadapted to be heatholes 42. The latter are drilled in radial extendirect flames upwardly toward the centerpf aff" utensil supported above the burner.

In addition topro'viding for the passage of the burner flames, the arcuate slots 38 constitute anA inlet for secndary'airto the combustion chamber c.. Thus it will be seen that air is permitted to .pass-upwardly around the burner providing an ample supply or oxygen for the combustion of the gases issuing from the ports I9 and supplying ed bythe amesissuing from the center lport holes :42 and the radial slots 44'; and the side faces of the arms 2| may-be flut-ed as shown at 22a inFig. 4.

It will be observed that since the ribs project upwardlyl into the flames, the lower sides thereof are k'more efl'ectually utilized. Thus the lower portions of fthe ribs define between. them channels for the passage'of gases of a somewhat lower temperature than the flames-possibly including a' film of secondary a'ir for the undersides of the ames, whereas -thefupper portions of the ribs are .disposed in direct contact with the hottest parts of the flames. As a result, in the-operation particularly the'unders'ides of the ames. The

secondary air supply for vthe centralv ports l2 I is received through the passages. formed by the openings I8 and 54 centrally of the burner structure. Moreover-the arrangement is such that such central supply of. secondary air may pass radially 'outward along: the upper sides ofthe j burner arms so as toi'eed oxygen t0 the. upper sides of the flames 'issuing from the ports I9. In this connection it will .be observed that each of the ceramic armsis spaced above the corresponding burner arm, thus permitting the now of air radially outward above the port holes.` I9.

. As shownin Fig. 9, the port holesl9, constituting the principalgas dischargeoutlet for the burner, are .drilled generally horizontally but are I 1 inclined` upwardly at asmall angle, that herein .shown being Aapproximately'SO degrees from the horizontal. .-Alsothe ports are disposed substan- .tially in the -plane of-or slightly above the inner edges of .the ceramic segments 29. Thus flames issuing from 'the burner project outwardly and somewhat upwardly immediately. above theface ofthe ceramic elements 20 which also slope upwardly and atan angle substantially corresponding to that ofthe flames.v Due to vthe generally l'horizontal projection ofI the iiames, the burner of the burner, theupper edge-of lthese radiating ribs 53 becomesincandescent, promoting combustion of 'the gases. and .transmitting the heat of the undersides of the flames to :the utensil by As is well known the base' portions of the flames are relatively cool, and it will be observed that by the construction provided, only such base portions are unconiined at their lower sides. In this connection, it is to be observed that due to the substantial llength of the slots 38 they may be 'f made relatively narrow, with the inner edge of ports` may be positioned closer to the bottom of the utensil as determined by the plane of the utensil seating isu'rfaces, and throughout the major part'oi their length the flames are closely confined between the opposed surfacesforming ofthe unit. the combustion chamber. Thus the' hottest portions of the flames, namely, the tip portions ofv the segments `2li closelyspaced from the sides of the burner. Thus it is that the intense heat of the burner flames is conned in the combustion "chamber immediately adjacent the'point oft application of.' heat tothe utensil, and'instead oi being reflected downwardly by the utensil into the burner box, it is reflected by the ceramic elements 20 upwardlyand somewhat inwardlyv due to the sloping surfaces of the elements. The central area oi the utensil is, of course, heated directly by the flames issuing-from the central port holes 42 and radial slots, or'bythe simmering burner ii.' such be employed.H

To provide for the passage of cool air vbetween each of the auxiliary top units andthe top panel, they are made of a diameter somewhat less than the openings I I. Thus an annular slot 56- (Figs.

4 and 8) is formed between the depending flange 46 of the top panel and the lout'er'vertic'al edge This provision for the passage of cool air. has been found to be of substantial importance in connection with the relatively low heat conductivity of the ceramic elements. Thus even though the top surface of the cover structure is heated to an extremely high temperature the outer vertical side edge of the cover structure is maintained relatively cool so that any food spillage may be easily removed.

It will be observed that the auxiliary top units II cooperate with the main top panel Il to provide in effect a closed cooking top having a plurality of circular depressions or recesses for the reception and close connement of the flames projected outwardly beneath the utensil bottoms; and with the top umts composed of ceramicmaterial as in the present preferred embodiment of the invention, with top faces oi' a smooth hard, vitric material, and a relative porous base of low `heat conductivity, the heat of the burner is utilized to the fullest possible extent through reilectionand radiation to the utensil. In this connectionit will be observed that with the llames projecting outwardly into the vertically shallow combustion spaces, the upper sides of the names lap the utensil bottom while the undersides thereof follow closely the top faces of the segmental elements 20. Although the top facesrof the elements are heated to a high temperature, this heat is eiectually utilized by reiiection with a minimum of loss by conduction.

In addition to the improved heat reflecting character of the elements obtained bythe use of `a hard vitric coating, the latter performs p other important functions contributing substantially to the production of a commercially successful top structure. Thus the ability to maintain an attractive appearance is assured due to the fact that the hard vitric coating is substantially impervious to theabsorption of liquids, effectually resists stains, and is capable of easy cleaning. In this latter connection it has been found that the intense heat to which the top faces of the ceramic elements are subjected in the operation of the burner is an important factor in keeping the structure clean. In fact extensive tests have shown that any food products depositedl on the smooth hard top` facing of the cover, as` a result of spillage or boiling over of the contents of a utensil, are so thoroughly burned `or consumed that upon cooling, it is possible to remove the residue or ash from the elementsmerely by a slight blast of air or by means of a damp cloth. Onthe other hand, because of the low heat conductivity of the ceramic structure, coupled with the cooling effect of the air `current passing upward around the cover, theouter peripheral side wall of the cover is maintained at a suiilciently low temperature that any food products deposited thereon will not bake on and can be readily removed.

Finally the construction and arrangement provided operates to limit thesupply of secondary air substantially to that required for complete combustion and to prevent the inflow of air inwardly `beneath the utensil, thereby minimizing loss in efiiciency due to the admission of an excessive amount of cool air. Thisresult is accomplished lby restricting the outlet passages 39 formed between the utensil bottom and the peripheral shell. Also the ribs 53 projecting upwardly` into the vertically shallow combustion chamber and into the outer passages `39 serve to retard the escape of the gases of combustion outwardly. VSince these ribs project radially inward from the outer edge of the cover structure they coact with utensils of varying sizes in providing a restricted, outlet passage.

'part of this present application.

Secondary air is thus supplied to the combustion chamber solely through the name slots Il and the central openings 4l communicating with the central openings Il of the burner.v Moreover such a restricted outlet passage has the effect of retarding the escape of the gases so that the latter are confined in the combustioncham- 1:biexaxri'beneath the utensil for a longer period of This application is a continuation-impart of` my co-pending application Serial No. 235,961, filed October 20, 1938.

The present application was also copending with my still earlier-filed, and now abandoned,

application, Serial No. 84,880, filed June 12, 1936, y and which earlier-iiled applicationshowed a spe-A cifically different form of cookingstove top structure having certain :features in common with that here disclosed and as to which certain claims, vherein are generic.

It should be understood that a number of features of the cooking top and its elements disclosed but not claimed herein are described and claimed in various other of my copending applications for patent. In particular, the burner head per se, and which is of general utility irrespective of its use with or without a cover structure, is described and claimed in my copending application Serial No. 324,470, iiled March 18, 1940, and which is a continuation in part of this present application. The hearth or closure structure herein shown also constitutes per se a sub-combination of the complete cooking top herein shown and is so described `and claimed in my copending application Serial No. 326,883, filed March 30, 1940, and which character, is disclosed and claimed suiiiciently broadly to include the present structure in my copending application Serial No. 321,498, iiled February 29, 1940, and which is a continuation in The feature herein shown, of locating the intake adjustment mechanism for one or both of a pair of front and rear burners for access through one of the burner holes in the top panel, is also embodied in the specifically different top structure disclosed in my copending application Serial No. 321,499, filed February 29, 1940, and is claimed therein, such application being a continuation in part of the present application.

I claim as my invention:

1. A cooking top structure for gas cookstoves comprising, in combination, aburner having a plurality of equidistantly `spaced radial arms shaped to form a plurality of outwardly facing arcuate sides, and a cover structure for the burner having a plurality of radial portions respectively overlying said burner arms and intervening portions sloping gradually downward and inward toward the burner between said radial portions and coacting therewith to form a plurality of arcuate slots, said burner having fuel discharge means in said arcuate sides arranged to project names outwardly above said intervening 'above said sloping surfaces.-

three equidistanily spaced radial 'arms shaped `to form three outwardly facing arcuate-sides, -l

' and a cover structure for the burner having three radial portions respectively overlying said burner arms and intervening portions sloping gradually downward toward the burner between said radial P0tions andv coacting therewithto form a vplurality of arcuate slots, saidburner'having fuel discharge means inisaid arcuate sides .arranged to project llames outwardlyv above saidintervening v portions of the cover'structure, and utensil sup.-A

f ports carried by said-cover'structure and respectivelyv disposed above said'radial' portions thereof.l

3. In-a "gasvcookstove, the combination of a star-shaped burnerv and a cover structure com- -prising a central spider having arms overlying the fburner -and outer portions providingwide up- -v wadly facing heat reflecting surfaces slopingv gradually downward and inward toward 'the lburner between'said arms', the inner edge of said outer portions coacting withl the side edges of said arms to: denne a p1ura1ityof s1ots,andsa1di burner having a fuel discharge outlet adapted to* project flames-outwardly through said 'slots and '4;1In a gas cookstove the combination of a burner having a. plurality of equidistantly'spaced' radial arms; and a combined heat intensier and ,cover 'qmprlsing a plurality of' arms directly l overlying the burner l arms but spaced therefrom.'

and a peripheral shell externally ofthe burner and having inner 4edge portions spaced downwardly from the sidev edges 'of the cover arms to form elongated slots, said-burner having fuel dis'- 'charge means for projecting flames outwardly through said slots and-having a central air;I passage for: supplying seoondary'air to 'the spaces between the. upper sides ofsaid burner arms and the lower sides of the ycover arms.

purposes. ,I v f7. In a gas cooks'tove the combination of va burner having a plurality of equidistantly spaced -said radial vpassages and serving to connect the inner and outer fuel *dischargerports yfor lighting radial farms,v and a cover structurelfor the burner 'v comprising radial portions overlying the burner trally above said radial' cover arms.

arms, said burner arms having fuel discharge lmeans for projecting-flames laterally outward frombeneath the cover. arms, and radialutensil supporting* members 'respectively disposed cen- 8'. In agas .coolxsiu'iveg thecombination of a `-lnain toppanel having an-opening therein.- a top burner 'comprising a. burner head, 'and a combined heat intensifier and cover for thel burner 1. headoi refractory material and comprising a cap' i directly overlying the burner head and a periph- Aeral shell surrounding the-burner-in `spacedrela- 3 utensil 'spaced a short abovesaid cap.

tion thereto, and means for supporting a cooking said shell'having atop and" outer side facingof vitric materialv with 'fthe top facing 'terminating at its periphery adjacent the edge oftheopening in the top panel and coacting 'withltlie bottom of a utensil 'resting on' said supportingmeans to define a combustion chambe'rhaving an outlet at the periphery of the shell opening voutwardly beneathl the utensil and in a'planeabove said. top

.30; panel, saidbu'rner fuel dischargemeans forproj'e'cting flames outwardly into said c'ombustion'v chamber with the tip portionsofzthe flames confined between said Vvit'ric top facing of 'theshell and thebottom of the utensil. 'j

'-.9.A cooking top' foi-gas coolnstov'es compris#- ing, in combination, a main top paneihaving an openingthereim a burner disposed centrallybe- 5. In a l'gas c ookstove the combination of a i burner having a centralopening'therethrough'for the. passage of secondary air anda plurality of equidistantly Vspace edradial armsI and a 'combined heat intensifier and cover comr'vrisiiig a plurality -ofarms'directly overlying theburner arms, a f. 'utensil supporting element disposed centrally above each of said cover arms. Vand an peripheral upwardlyfacing shell extendingoutwardly from the burner vand -spac'ed from 'thefcove'r arms t0 form elongatedslots, said burner having fuel discharge means forprojecting flames outwardly..

through said slots .and Asaid cover'arms coacting 'with the burner arms-to provide horizontal passages communicating-with the central )opening in the burner for supplying air. to the upper sides of said flames,4 thev flow of air through said passages beneath said cover arms 'also servingv to cool such armsand the utensil seating Velements above the y6. In a gas cookstovethecombination o f a burner-having equidistantlyspaced radial'arms.-

andA a cover structure comprisinga p'luraiityoi'I radial arms overlying the burner arms with the inner ends of said cover .arms cooperating'to form a central opening and to define passages extends ing radially outward from said opening above'. said burner arms, said burner havingga central low said openingv and the perimeter of said opening being spaced` laterally from 'such centrally disposed burner, said :burner having fuel discharge means for projecting names laterally `outvward 'toward the perimeter of said opening and upwardly'above v,the plane off said top panel, a

combined heatl intensifier and cover for the burner removably supported Vin said opening independently 'of said burner and substantially in the plane of the panel,'said 'cover being apertured for the :passage therethrough-'of flames issuing frolnthe underlying burner and serving substantially to conceal the burner beneath it, and means x-'for supportinga utensil with its bottom in closely spaced relation above the face of said cover, said cover being adapted. to cOact with thebottom of .the burner. r

.a cooking utensil on' saidsupporting means tol deilne a vertically shallow chamber for the reception and close, confinement of theilames of '1 0. In a gas 'cookstove the' combination of a o burner having apluralit'y' of radial arms. a Plurality of utensil supports disposed above respec- Vtive vones oi' said burner arms y,and extending longitudinally along them, said burner arms having fuel discharge means for projectingv llames laterally away from ther utensil supports voverlying the burner arms from which the flames issue.

and .-'av refractory cover overlying'V and generally concealing the-burner, said cover'beingapertured for thel issuance ofthe iiamesin 'position to play upon the bottom of a utensil on said supports and .comprising arm'` portions interposed in thermal insulating relation between the burner arms and the respective overlying utensil supports.

11'. Iu'a gas eookstove,V the combination ofa vslots positionedto project flames .upwardly linto burner, a generally horizontal cover overlying and substantially concealing said burner, utensil supports projecting radially inward from the periphery of the cover toward its center and presenting seating surfaces to support a utensil bottom in `closely spaced relation above said cover, said cover being apertured for the passage of flames from the burner into the space between the utensil and cover, and said burner having fuel emission means for projecting llames. through` the cover aperture beneath the utensil bottom but in a direction generally laterally away from the utensil supports to prevent direct flame implngement on the latter.

12. In a cooking top for a gaseous fuel cooking stove, the combination of a burner head having a generally central opening therethrough for an updraft of secondary air and having fuel emission apertures therein located in segregated zones spaced peripherally about the head,a superstructure including utensil supporting nger portions projecting radially of the head and lying above the portions of the latter intermediate said zones of fuel emission apertures to be out of the direct `path of flames issuing from the latter, and said superstructure presenting a bottom face closely spaced from and coacting with the burner head to define air passages leading outward from the secondary air supply opening in the head to said fuel emission apertures, the flow of air through said passages serving also to cool said overlying superstructure.

13. In a cooking top for a gaseous fuel cooking stove, the combination of a burner head having a `generally central opening therethrough for an updraft of secondary air, a plurality of fingers projecting radially inward above the head toward the central axis ofthe latter, said head having a plurality of fuel emission apertures therein disposed in zones spaced peripherally about the head and intermediate said fingers so that llames issuing from the same will not impinge directly on said lingers, said ngers presenting utensil seating ridges on their tops ex-l tending generally longitudinally of the same, the

inner end portions of said fingers being splayedv laterally to overlie the head, and the adjacent surfaces of the head and lingers defining therebetween air passages extending from the central opening in the head to the fuel emission apertures for the flow of secondary air through said passages to flames issuing from said apertures and for the cooling of said fingers beneath which such flow of air passes.

14. In a gas cookstove, the combination of a top panel having an opening therein, a burner below and centrally of said opening with fuel discharge means in its upper portion, and a, combined cover and utensil supporting unit removably supported in said opening in the top panel substantially in the plane thereof and comprising a central section overlying the burner so as to substantially conceal the same and pro-I viding utensil seating surfaces disposed in a plane',

above the top panel, an outer section depressed relative to the central section and providing wide upwardly facing heat reflecting surfaces extend-l ing from said central section outwardly toward` the periphery of the opening in the top panel,- and outlet means disposed between the top faces of the central and outer sections at the outer and inner edges thereof respectively for the escape of products of combustion outwardly between said outer section and the bottom of a utensil resting on said seating surfaces.

15. A gas cookstove having. in combination.

means for supporting a cooking utensil with its bottom surface exposed, a burner having a plurality of radial arms with outlet means at opposite sides thereof for discharging gaseous fuel upwardly and laterally, said fuel discharge means4 being positioned to cause the flames or `gases while in process of combustion to play directlyupon the bottom surface of a utensil resting on said means, and a hearth located immediately beneath said utensil supporting means to define between the top surface of the hearth and the utensil bottom surface supported on said means a vertically shallow combustionspace, said hearth comprising a generally horizontal wall overlying and substantially concealing the burner and havling slots positioned at opposite sides of the burner arms for the passage of such flames into the combustion space, and said slots being. only partially underlaid by the burner arms to permit an updraft of secondary air through the unclosed lower end portions of the slots to flames issuing from said burner outlet means.

16. A gas cookstove having, in combination, a burner having a plurality of radial arms with outlet means at opposite sides thereof for discharging gaseous lfuel upwardly and laterally beneath a cooking utensil supported above the burner, and a hearth positioned above the burner to define a combustion space between the top surface of the hearth and the utensil bottom surface, said hearth comprising a refractory disk overlying and substantially concealing the burner and having slots disposed above and at opposite sides of the burner arms for the passage of burning gases intothe combustion space, said disk having a plurality of utensil supporting ribs formed integral therewith and disposed between said slots, and said slots being only partially underlaid by the burner arms to permit an updraft of secondary air through the unclosed lower end portions of the slots to flamesissuing from said burner outlet means.

17. A gas cookstove having, in combination, means for supporting a cooking utensil with its bottom surface exposed, a burner having a plurality of radial arms with outlet means at opposite sides thereof for discharging gaseous fuel upwardly and laterally beneath a utensil so supported, and a `hearth located immediately beneath said utensil-supporting means to define a combustion space between the top surface of the hearth and the utensil bottom surface supported on said means, said hearth comprising a substantially flat refractory disk overlying and substantially concealing the burner, and a metallic carrier supporting said disk, said disk having a plurality of radial slots disposed at opposite sides of the burner arms for the passage of burning gases into the combustion space and said utensil-supporting means comprising a plurality of circumferentially spaced ribs rigid with said carrier and a plurality, of ribs formed integral with the disk between said slots and disposed in substantially radial alinement with the ribs on the carrier. y

18. A gaseous fuel cookstove comprising, in combination, a heat radiating burner top structure presenting a top surface, a gaseous fuel burner head located below said top structure and including a central section of ports distributed over only a small area in la horizontal plane and a. second section of ports disposed laterally of said central section and directed laterally as well as upwardly, means for supportingv utensils having .bottoms of widely different areas in v closely spaced relation above. said topi structure.

saidtop structurehaving a generally centrally utensil, and said top structure also having aper v i tures therein located somewhat laterally of said I second port section Iandliounded by a substan- 10 l confined in eilective heat exchange relation with.

tially imperforate-marsinalportion of said-:top

` structure presenting atopsurface of 'substantial lateralv width so that -hot gases from said vsecond section. of portsrare spread laterally vbeneath the bottom'of even a.. large utensil whiiebeing the utensilin the space between said marginal portion ot'said bottom. .1 t

CLAUDE E..-PARKER.

top structure and the utensil

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