WO2008063187A2

WO2008063187A2 - Housing for cooking apparatus and method of use

Info

Publication number: WO2008063187A2
Application number: PCT/US2006/060459
Authority: WO
Inventors: Ernest W. Leduc; Scott C. Salter; Steven J. Caliguri
Original assignee: Freedom Grill, Inc.
Priority date: 2006-11-01
Filing date: 2006-11-01
Publication date: 2008-05-29
Also published as: WO2008063187A3

Abstract

A housing for a cooking apparatus (100) includes, for example, a hood (302), abezel (310), and an insert member (330). The bezel (310) is configured to have an insert member receiving area, and is attached to the hood (302). The insert member (330) is attached to the housing for the cooking apparatus adjacent the insert member receiving area. A method of using a housing for a cooking apparatus includes, for example, swinging a hood to an open position, swinging a top surface of a first side shelf to a position outside of a pan, and rotating a surface of a utility tray from a first orientation to a substantiality horizontal orientation for use. A method of using a cooking apparatus includes, for example, selecting an insert member (330) from a plurality of insert members, and attaching the selected insert member to a bezel (310) of the cooking apparatus (100) adjacent an insert member receiving area of the bezel.

Description

HOUSING FOR COOKING APPARATUS AND METHOD OF USE

NOTICE OF COPYRIGHTS

[0001] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent disclosure, as it appears in the United States Patent and Trademark Office patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

BACKGROUND

1 . Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to apparatuses for cooking. More particularly, some examples of the invention concern a housing for a cooking apparatus having a bezel and an insert member.

2. Description of Related Art

[0003] Tailgate parties and picnics at sporting events, concerts, and other types of gathering have become very popular. People at these types of gatherings typically are fans of a particular sports team, school, musical group, or other organization. Fans often enjoy showing their allegiance by wearing shirts or hats that identify a particular team, school, or musical group. Fans may also show their allegiance by attaching stickers to their vehicle or by waving flags that identify a particular team, school, or musical group.

[0004] Cooking apparatuses, for example barbeques, are often used in social settings such as tailgate parties, picnics, campouts, backyard parties, and other social events. However, cooking apparatuses, and housings for cooking apparatuses, generally have the shortcoming of not providing any way for fans to display their allegiance to a particular team, school, or musical group. [0005] When cooking food in settings such as tailgate parties, picnics, campouts, and backyard parties, condiments are typically used to season the food. However, in these settings, space for holding condiments and utensils and other items is often in short supply. For example, at a tailgate party, condiments often must be placed on a separate table, or in a vehicle, because cooking apparatuses and housings for cooking apparatuses typically provide little or no space for holding condiments.

[0006] Cooking apparatuses used in settings such as tailgate parties typically have controls for controlling the cooking temperature. These controls are often exposed on the body of the apparatus, and consequently, are vulnerable to being damaged.

[0007] To transport a cooking apparatus such as a barbeque to a tailgate party, picnic, or other event, the barbeque may be transported in the vehicle, or attached to the exterior of the vehicle, or on a trailer. Although transporting the barbeque outside the vehicle is desirable, barbeques transported outside the vehicle typically cannot be moved to a convenient location for cooking such as on a picnic bench, due to the size of the cooking apparatus, or because the cooking apparatus cannot be separated from the vehicle, or because the cooking apparatus is not free standing apart from the vehicle.

[0008] In summary, known cooking apparatuses, and known housings for cooking apparatuses, have a number of inadequacies.

SUMMARY

[0009] One aspect of the invention is a housing for a cooking apparatus. As an example, the housing for the cooking apparatus includes a hood, a bezel, and an insert member. The bezel is configured to have an insert member receiving area, and is attached to the hood. The insert member is attached to the housing for the cooking apparatus adjacent the insert member receiving area.

[0010] Another aspect of the invention is a cooking apparatus. As an example the cooking apparatus includes a pan, a cooking surface coupled to the pan, a hood rotatably attached to the pan, and a bezel attached to the hood, wherein the bezel is configured to have an insert member receiving area. Examples of the cooking apparatus may also include an insert member attached to the cooking apparatus adjacent the insert member receiving area. [0011] Another aspect of the invention is a method of using a housing for a cooking apparatus. An example of the method includes the following operations: swinging a hood to an open position, swinging a top surface of a first side shelf to a position outside of a pan, and rotating a surface of a utility tray from a first orientation to a substantially horizontal orientation. [0012] Another aspect of the invention is a method of using a cooking apparatus. An example of the method includes the following operations: selecting an insert member from a plurality of insert members, and attaching the selected insert member to a bezel of the cooking apparatus, wherein the selected insert member is attached to the bezel adjacent an insert member receiving area of the bezel .

[0013] One or more advantages may be provided by some examples of the invention. For example, some examples of the invention advantageously provide an insert member attached to a housing for a cooking apparatus, wherein the insert member may include an identifier that may include, for example, an emblem or logo for a sports team, school, or musical group. Some examples of the invention include a utility tray that covers and protects one or more controls of a cooking apparatus when a surface of the utility tray is in a first position for storage, and that provides a tray for condiments and utensils and other items when the surface of the utility tray is in a second position for use. Some examples of the invention include a first side shelf and a second side shelf that are rotatably attached to a pan of a housing for a cooking apparatus, wherein the first side shelf and the second side shelf each have a top surface that may be positioned between a first side and a second side of the pan for storage, and in a second position outside of the pan for holding items during use. Some examples of the invention include a swing arm attached to a pan of a housing of a cooking apparatus, and a support arm rotatably attached to the support arm, and a hitch bolt inserted through two holes in the support arm, for securing the support arm to a trailer hitch of a vehicle, to facilitate transporting the cooking apparatus while reducing movement of the support arm. Some examples of the invention include a first leg assembly and a second leg assembly that are attached to a housing for a cooking apparatus, to facilitate using the cooking apparatus when the cooking apparatus is not attached to a vehicle. Various examples of the invention also provides a number of other advantages and benefits, which should be apparent from the following description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example of a housing for a cooking apparatus in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention, in its operative environment. [0015] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an example of a housing for a cooking apparatus in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention, in its operative environment.

[0016] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of an example of a housing for a cooking apparatus in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

[0017] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a bezel and hood in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

[0018] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a bezel and hood in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention. [0019] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of components of an example of a housing for a cooking apparatus in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

[0020] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of a bezel and an insert member in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention. [0021] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an insert member in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

[0022] FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of components of an example of a housing for a cooking apparatus in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention. [0023] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of a trailer hitch arm assembly in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

[0024] FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of components of another example of a trailer hitch arm assembly in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention. [0025] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an example of a housing for a cooking apparatus in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention. [0026] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an example of a housing for a cooking apparatus in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

[0027] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an example of a housing for a cooking apparatus in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

[0028] FIG. 15 is a flowchart of an operational sequence for using a housing for a cooking apparatus in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention. [0029] FIG. 16 is a flowchart of an operational sequence for using a cooking apparatus in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] The nature, objectives, and advantages of the invention will become more apparent to those skilled in the art after considering the following detailed description in connection with the accompanying drawings.

I. DEFINITIONS

[0031] The terms "a" or "an", as used herein, are defined as one or more than one. The term "plurality", as used herein, is defined as two or more than two. The term "another", as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms "including/includes," "containing/contains," and/or

"having/has", as used herein, are defined as comprising/comprises (e.g., open language). The term "coupled", as used herein, is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically. The term "attached", as used herein, is defined as directly or indirectly connected. The term "adjacent", as used herein, is defined as near or adjoining.

II. HARDWARE COMPONENTS AND INTERCONNECTIONS [0032] One aspect of the invention is a housing for a cooking apparatus. As an example, the housing for a cooking apparatus may be embodied by the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 shown in its operative environment in FIG. 1. The housing for a cooking apparatus 100 is shown in FIG. 1 attached to the trailer hitch 102 of a vehicle 104, with the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 oriented for transport, and with the rear door and hatch of the vehicle 104 closed. In FIG. 2, the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 is also shown in its operative environment, attached to the trailer hitch 102 of the vehicle 104, but with the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 oriented for cooking, and with the rear door and hatch of the vehicle 104 open. As an example, the trailer hitch 102 may be a standard tubular trailer hitch 102, that typically has a hollow tube 106 that has a rearward facing hollow tubular end 108 and a first hole 110 in a first side of the trailer hitch hollow tube 106 and a second hole 112 in the second side of the trailer hitch hollow tube 106 that is aligned with the first hole in the trailer hitch hollow tube 106. A hitch locking pin may inserted through the first hole 110 and the second hole 112 to secure the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 to the trailer hitch 102. In other examples, a hitch bolt, or a hitch bolt and a hitch nut or clip, which are discussed below, may be used to secure the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 to the trailer hitch 102. The vehicle 104 may be any type of vehicle, for example a sport utility vehicle, a recreational vehicle, a pickup truck, a truck, a station wagon, or any other suitable vehicle.

[0033] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of an example of the housing for a cooking apparatus 100. The housing for a cooking apparatus 100 includes a hood 302 that has a face 304 that has a top edge 306 and a bottom edge 308, and a bezel 310 that has a front 312 and a back 314 and a top 316 and a bottom 318. The bezel 310 may also be called a faceplate. The back of the bezel may have a bottom edge 320. The bezel 310 may be attached to the hood 302. In some examples the bezel 310 may be attached to the face 304 of the hood 302, and in other examples the bezel 310 could be attached to other portions of the hood 302. In some examples the bezel 310 may substantially cover the face 304 of the hood 302. In some examples, a distance between the top 316 and the bottom 318 of the bezel is greater than a distance between the top edge 306 and the bottom edge 308 of the face 304 of the hood 302. In some examples, a distance between the top 316 and the bottom 318 of the bezel 310 is greater than a distance between the top 316 of the bezel 310 and bottom edge 320 of the back 314 of the bezel 310. The housing for a cooking apparatus 100 may also include an insert member 330 attached to the bezel 310.

[0034] The housing for a cooking apparatus 100 may also include a pan 332. The hood 302 may be rotatably coupled to the pan 332. For example, the hood 302 may be rotatably coupled to the pan 332 with at least one hinge attached to the hood 302 and the pan 332, which may be called a hood hinge, or by providing slots in the pan 332 in which arms attached to the hood 302 may rotate. As another example, to provide for rotation of the hood 302 in relation to the pan 332, the hood 302 could be configured to have two or more rods that are inserted into corresponding holes in the pan 332 or in a member attached to the pan 332. Conversely, the pan 332 may be configured to have the rods, and the hood 302 may be configured to have the corresponding holes.

[0035] The housing for a cooking apparatus 100 may also include a cooking surface 334 coupled to the pan 332. Examples of the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 that include at least the pan 332 and the cooking surface 334, may be called a cooking apparatus. In some examples, a drip deflector 336 may be coupled to the pan 332 beneath the cooking surface 334. In some examples a burner 338 is coupled to the pan below the drip deflector 336. In some examples the cooking surface 334 may be a grill. More generally, the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 may include any of a variety of cooking devices, which have a corresponding cooking surface. As an example, the cooking device could be, for example, a barbeque, a griddle, a wok, a gas burner, a smoker, a rotisserie, a deep fryer, or any other suitable device for cooking. Many of the possible cooking devices could have a grill. Almost any grilling area could be used, but typically the grilling area could range from about one hundred square inches to about two thousand square inches. Different sizes and types of barbeque models could be used as the cooking device. Suitable gas barbeques could have one, two, or more burners. Propane fueled barbeques having almost any BTU rating could be used, for example ten thousand BTU (or less) to one hundred thousand BTU (or more).

[0036] The burner 338 is provided for burning a fuel, for example, propane or natural gas, to provide heat for cooking. The burner 338 may be located inside the pan 332. A tank may be utilized to supply fuel, for example propane (LPG), to the burner 338. The housing for a cooking apparatus 100 may include a plate 340, which may be attached to the pan 332. A drip pan 341 may be attached to the plate 340. In some examples, a fuel tank retaining member 342 may be attached to the plate 340, for suspending a fuel tank from the housing for a cooking apparatus 100, and for securing the fuel tank to the housing for a cooking apparatus 100. More generally, the fuel for the cooking device could be, for example, propane (LPG), charcoal, wood, natural gas, electric, or any other type of gas or other fuel used for cooking. A wide variety of standard fuel tanks, for example standard propane tanks, could be connected to the cooking device, typically by using a standard connector for quick connection and disconnection. In some examples, the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 could include an attachment for connecting the cooking device to a gas source on a vehicle, or to a land based gas source. For example, when used with a recreational vehicle (RV), the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 could be attached to a propane tank on the recreational vehicle that could also be used for a stove, refrigerator, or other appliances in the recreational vehicle. In other examples, other types of burners or heating elements could be used. [0037] The pan 332 may have a first side 344 and a second side

346, and the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 may include a first side shelf 350 rotatably attached to the pan 332 proximate the first side 344 of the pan 332, wherein the first side shelf 350 has a top surface 352, and wherein the first side shelf 350 is configured for positioning the top surface 352 of the first side shelf 350 in a first position between the first side 344 and the second side 346 of the pan 332 for storage, and in a second position outside of the pan 332 for use. The housing for a cooking apparatus 100 may also include a second side shelf 354 rotatably attached to the pan 332 proximate the second side 346 of the pan 332, wherein the second side shelf 354 has a top surface 356, and wherein the second side shelf 354 is configured for positioning the top surface 356 of the second side shelf 354 in a second position between the first side 344 and the second side 346 of the pan 332 for storage, and in a second position outside of the pan 332 for use. In some examples a first hinge could be attached to the first side shelf 350 and the pan 332 to permit rotating the first side shelf 350, and a second hinge could be attached to the second side shelf 354 and the pan 332 to permit rotating the second side shelf 354. As an example, the first side shelf 350 and the second side shelf

354 may be made of plastic, or metal, or a combination of plastic and metal.

[0038] In some examples, the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 includes a first handle 358 attached to the first side 344 of the pan 332, and a second handle 360 attached to the second side 346 of the pan 332. The first side shelf 350 may be rotatably attached to the first handle 358, and may be configured for positioning the top surface 352 of the first side shelf 350 in a first position between the first side 344 and the second side 346 of the pan 332 for storage, and in a second position outside of the pan 332 for use. The second side shelf 354 may be rotatably attached to the second handle 360, and may be configured for positioning the top surface 356 of the second side shelf 354 in a first position between the first side 344 and the second side 346 of the pan 332 for storage, and in a second position outside of the pan 332 for use. As an example the first side shelf 350 may have a first pin and a second pin, which are inserted into corresponding holes in the first handle 358, to facilitate rotating the first side shelf 350 to a position outside of the pan 332, or to a folded position near the cooking surface 334. Similarly, the second side shelf 354 may have a first pin and a second pin, which are inserted into corresponding holes in the second handle 360, to facilitate rotating the second side shelf 354 to a position outside of the pan 332, or to a folded position near the cooking surface 334. As an example, the first handle 358 and the second handle 360 may be made of metal, such as cast aluminum or stainless steel. First handle attachment plates 361 a and 361b may included between the first handle 358 and the pan 332, and second handle attachment plates 361c and 361d may be included between the second handle 360 and the pan 332.

[0039] The housing for a cooking apparatus 100 may also include a utility tray 362 having a utility tray surface 364, wherein the utility tray 362 is rotatably attached to the pan 332, for placing the utility tray surface 364 in a first position for storage and in a second position for use. In some examples, the utility tray surface 364 may be substantially vertical when the utility tray surface 364 is in the first position for storage. In some examples, the utility tray surface 364 may be substantially horizontal when the utility tray surface 364 is in the second position for use. As an example, the utility tray 362 may be made of plastic, or metal such as cast aluminum or stainless steel.

[0040] The housing for a cooking apparatus may also include a control panel 366 attached to the pan 332. The control panel 366 may have a first side 368, a second side 370, and a control surface 372. The housing for a cooking apparatus 100 may be configured so the utility tray surface 364 is proximate the control surface 372 when the utility tray surface 364 is substantially vertical. The utility tray 362 may cover and protect one or more control knobs 374 attached to the housing for a cooking apparatus 100, which are located in front of the control surface 372, when the utility tray surface 364 is in the first position for storage, and may provide a tray for condiments and utensils and other items when the utility tray surface 364 is in the second position for use. An ignitor button 375 may also be attached to the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 and located in front of the control surface 372. In some examples the utility tray 362 is rotatably attached to the control panel 366, for placing the utility tray surface 364 in the first position for storage and the second position for use. As an example, the control panel 366 may be made of metal, such as cast aluminum or stainless steel, or could be made of plastic.

[0041] In some examples, the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 includes a first arm 376 attached proximate the first side 368 of the control panel 366 and also attached to the first side 344 of the pan 332, and a second arm 378 attached proximate the second side 370 of the control panel 366 and also attached to the second side 346 of the pan 332. In some examples, the utility tray 362 is rotatably attached to the first arm 376 and the second arm 378, for example by utilizing rods inserted into corresponding holes (or hinges could be used), for placing the utility tray surface 364 in the first position for storage and in the second position for use. As an example, the first arm 376 and the second arm 378 may be made of metal, such as cast aluminum or stainless steel.

[0042] The cooking apparatus may further include a trailer hitch arm assembly 380. The trailer hitch arm assembly may include a swing arm 382 attached to the plate 340 (or directly attached to the pan 332), and a support arm 384, wherein the swing arm 382 is rotatably attached to the support arm 384, to permit swinging the cooking area 386 away from the rear of the vehicle 104 to permit access to the rear of the vehicle 104 when cooking, or to permit swinging the cooking area 386 adjacent the rear of the vehicle 104 when moving the vehicle 104 and the housing for a cooking apparatus 100. In some examples, the pan 332, the hood 302, the plate 340, the support arm 384, and the swing arm 382 may generally be made of cast aluminum. Alternatively, one or more components of the housing for the cooking apparatus 100 may be made of stainless steel.

[0043] In some examples, the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 may include a first leg assembly 388 attached to the pan 332, and a second leg assembly 390 attached to the pan 332. The first leg assembly 388 and the second leg assembly 390 may be configured to be removable from the pan 332. In some examples a first leg assembly 388 may be attached to the plate 340 proximate a first side 392 of the plate 340, and the second leg assembly 390 may be attached to the plate 340 proximate a second side 394 of the plate 340. The first leg assembly 388 and the second leg assembly 390 may be configured to be removable from the plate 340. The first leg assembly 388 and the second leg assembly 390 may be snapped into position for attachment to the plate 340 or directly to the pan 332. In some examples the first leg assembly 388 and the second leg assembly 390 may be attached to the plate 340 with screws or bolts. In some examples the first leg assembly 388 and the second leg assembly 390 may be made of plastic, or could be made of metal, such as aluminum or stainless steel. The first leg assembly 388 and the second leg assembly 390 permit removing the trailer hitch arm assembly 380 from the housing for a cooking apparatus 100, and placing the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 on the ground, or on a table, bench, or other surface, when cooking. Alternatively, when the trailer hitch arm assembly 380 is attached to the housing for the cooking apparatus 100, the housing for the cooking apparatus 100 may be used for cooking when the housing for the cooking apparatus 100 is attached to the trailer hitch 102 of the vehicle 104.

[0044] Referring to FIG. 4, an example of the bezel 310 attached to the hood 302 is shown. In this example, the bezel 310 has a ledge 322 that extends below the bottom 308 of the face 304 (shown in Fig. 3) of the hood 302, to facilitate lifting the bezel 310 to open the hood 302. [0045] Referring to FIG. 5, another example of a bezel 510 attached to the hood 302 is shown. The bezel 510 is configured to provide a finger space 511 between at least a portion of the back 514 of the bezel 510 and the face 304 of the hood 302 proximate the bottom 518 of the bezel 510, to permit Alternatively, one or more components of the housing for the cooking apparatus 100 may be made of stainless steel.

[0044] Referring to FIG. 4, an example of the bezel 310 attached to the hood 302 is shown. In this example, the bezel 310 has a ledge 322 that extends below the bottom 308 of the face 304 (shown in Fig. 3) of the hood 302, to facilitate lifting the bezel 310 to open the hood 302. [0045] Referring to FIG. 5, another example of a bezel 510 attached to the hood 302 is shown. The bezel 510 is configured to provide a finger space 511 between at least a portion of the back 514 of the bezel 510 and the face 304 of the hood 302 proximate the bottom 518 of the bezel 510, to permit

- 13 - a user to place their fingers in the finger space 511 to facilitate using the bezel

510 as a handle for lifting the hood 302. In some examples, the finger space

511 provides a space of at least 1 cm between at least a portion of the back 514 of the bezel 510 and the face 304 of the hood 302 proximate the bottom 518 of the bezel 510. In some examples, the finger space 511 provides a space of at least 2 cm between at least a portion of the back 514 of the bezel 510 and the face 304 of the hood 302 proximate the bottom 518 of the bezel 510. In some examples, the finger space 511 provides a space of at least 3 cm between at least a portion of the back 514 of the bezel 510 and the face 304 of the hood 302 proximate the bottom 518 of the bezel 510. In some examples the finger space 511 between the back 514 of the bezel 510 and the face 304 of the hood 302 proximate the bottom 518 of the bezel 510 extends from a first side 520 of the bottom 518 of the bezel 510 to a second side 522 of the bottom 518 of the bezel 510. [0046] Referring to FIG. 6, the bezel 310 may be attached to the hood 302 with bolts 602a, 602b, 602c, 602d, for example, and one or more spacers 604a, 604b, 604c, 604d may be included between the face 304 of the hood 302 and the back 314 of the bezel 310, to provide a space (or to increase the space), between the face 304 of the hood 302 and the back 314 of the bezel 310. The spacers 604a, 604b, 604c, 604d provide space between the face 304 of the hood 302 and the back 314 of the bezel 310, to reduce the amount of heat transfer between the hood 302 and the bezel 310, to facilitate keeping the temperature of the bezel 310 lower than the temperature of the hood 302. The spacers 604a, 604b, 604c, 604d may also function as washers which are used in conjunction with the bolts 602a, 602b, 602c, 602d. In some examples a heat shield 606 is attached to the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 between the hood 302 and the bezel 310, to shield the bezel 310 and the user from the heat of the hood 302. The heat shield 606 is located at least partially between the face 304 of the hood 302 and the bezel 310. In some examples, a latch assembly 608 may be attached to the hood 302. A temperature indicator 610 also may be attached to the hood 302. A hood attachment plate 612 may also be attached to the hood 302.

- 14 - [0047] Referring to FIG. 7, the bezel 310 is configured to have (and define) an insert member receiving area 702. The insert member 330 may be attached to the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 adjacent the insert member receiving area 702. An insert member 330 is shown in FIG. 8. Referring again to FIG. 7, in some examples, the insert member receiving area 702 has an outer edge 704, and the front 312 of the bezel 310 includes a lip 706 that substantially surrounds the outer edge 704 of the insert member receiving area 702. In some examples, the outer edge 704 of the insert member receiving area 702 is substantially oval shaped. In some examples, the bezel 310 is further configured to have a first trough 708 between the insert member receiving area 702 and the top 316 of the bezel 310, and a second trough 710 between the insert member receiving area 702 and the bottom 318 of the bezel 310. In some examples, the bezel 310 defines a bezel longitudinal axis 712, and the first trough 708 defines a longitudinal axis generally parallel to the length of the first trough 708, and the second trough 710 defines a longitudinal axis generally parallel to the length of the second trough 710. The longitudinal axis of the first trough 708 and the longitudinal axis of the second trough 710 may be substantially parallel to the bezel longitudinal axis 712. In some examples, the lip 706 has an upper rear portion 714 that extends into the first trough 708, and a lower rear portion 716 that extends into the second trough 710. In some examples the insert member receiving area is defined by a recessed portion of the bezel, wherein the recessed portion of the bezel has an outer edge that is contiguous with the front of the bezel. In some examples the insert member receiving area does not extend to the back of the bezel. In other examples the insert member receiving area is a hole extending through the bezel from the front of the bezel to the back of the bezel.

[0048] Referring again to FIG. 7, in some examples, the insert member receiving area 702 of the bezel 310 includes a receiving area surface 720. In some examples, the insert member 330 has a back 722 that touches the receiving area surface 720 of the insert member receiving area 702. In other examples, the insert member 330 has a back that is spaced from the receiving area surface 720 of the insert member receiving area 702. In some

- 15 - examples, the receiving area surface 720 has a first retainer hole 724, and the insert member has a first retainer arm 726, which is inserted into the first retainer hole 724, to attach the insert member 330 to the bezel 310. In some examples, the receiving area surface 720 has a second retainer hole 728, and the insert member 330 has a second retainer arm 730, which is inserted into the second retainer hole 728, to attach the insert member 330 to the bezel 310. In some examples the insert member 330 has a third retainer arm 732, which is inserted into the first retainer hole 724 of the receiving area surface 720, and the insert member has a fourth retainer arm 734 which is inserted into the second retainer hole 728 of the receiving area surface 720, for securing the insert member 330 to the bezel 310. Alternatively, the first retainer hole 724 and the second retainer hole 728 may be smaller, and third and fourth retainer holes may be provided in the receiving area surface 720, for receiving the third and fourth retainer arms 732, 734, respectively, of the insert member 330. In some examples the retainer arms 726, 730, 732, 734 of the insert member 330 may be snapped into the retainer holes 724, 728 of the receiving area surface 720, to attach the insert member 330 to the bezel 310.

[0049] In other examples the insert member could be attached to the bezel 310 using one or more magnets, hook and loop fasteners, one or more screws, or any other suitable fasteners. As an example, magnetic material could be attached to the back 722 of the insert member 330 (or inside the insert member 330), and the receiving area surface 720 could include metal or magnetic material, that the magnetic material attached to the back 722 of the insert member is attracted to, to attach the insert member 330 to the receiving area surface 720. In other examples the insert member could be attached to the hood 302, for example with one or more screws or nuts and bolts. In some examples the insert member 330 is removably attached to the bezel 310 and/or the hood 302. In other examples, the insert member could be permanently attached to the bezel 310 and/or the hood 302. In other examples, the insert member could be permanently or removably attached to the heat shield 606.

- 16 - [0050] Referring to FIG. 8, the insert member 330 (sometimes called an insertion member) may have an identifier face 802. An identifier 804 may be provided on the identifier face 802, or may be attached to the identifier face 802. In some examples an identifier is formed in the insert member, and in some examples the identifier may define the identifier face of the insert member. As an example, an identifier could be printed or painted on the identifier face of the insert member, and/or could be formed or molded in the insert member. As an example the identifier could be a logo, an emblem, or a representation of a uniform or part of a uniform, or other identifier, of a sports team, an athlete, a school, a musical group, an entertainer, a movie, a game, a product, a company, a club, a political party, a country, or any other type of group or organization. As an example, the identifier may include a logo or emblem for Freedom Grill™ grilling systems. The insert member 330 may also be called an emblem insert or a logo insert. As an example, the bezel 310 and the insert member 330 may be made of plastic. In alternative examples, the bezel 310 and/or the insert member 330 could be made of metal, rubber, or any other suitable material.

[0051] In some examples, a plurality of interchangeable insert members 330 and/or a plurality of interchangeable bezels 310 could be provided for the housing for a cooking apparatus 100. If a plurality of interchangeable insert members 330 are included, a manufacturer, seller, or user may attach a first insert member 330 to the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 proximate the insert member receiving area 702. If desired, a user may remove the first insert member and attach a second insert member that has a different identifier than the first insert member, to the housing for a cooking apparatus 100, for example, to attach an insert member that has an identifier of a sports team supported by the user. If desired, the substitution of insert members 330 may be repeated with additional insert members 330, for example, to attach an insert member that has an identifier of a football team during football season, and to attach an insert member that has an identifier of a baseball team during baseball season.

[0052] In some examples the bezel 310 is removable from the hood 302, and from the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 in general. In some

- 17 - examples, a plurality of removable bezels 310 may be provided for the housing for a cooking apparatus 100. If a plurality of interchangeable bezels 310 are provided, a manufacturer, seller, or user may attach a first bezel 310 to the housing for a cooking apparatus 100. If desired, a user may remove the first bezel and attach a second bezel to the housing for a cooking apparatus 100, for example, to attach a bezel that has a color that matches the color of a vehicle that the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 may be attached to. Bezels 310 could be used in conjunction with corresponding insert members 330. For example, a bezel 310 could be chosen that has a color that compliments the appearance of the face of a selected insert member 330.

[0053] Referring to FIG. 9, the plate 340 may have a bottom 902 configured to have a collar 904 for receiving the swing arm 382. In some examples the collar 904 may be a separate component that is attached to the plate 340, rather than being part of the plate 340. A knob assembly 906 may be inserted into threaded holes 907 formed in the collar 904, for tightening the collar 904 around the swing arm 382. Accordingly, the swing arm 382 may be attached, and removed, from the collar 904. More generally, the swing arm 382 may be configured to be removable from the pan 332, plate 340, and/or collar 904. Screws or bolts and washers 908 may be used to attach the plate 340 to the pan 332. Screws or bolts and washers 910 may be used to attach the first leg assembly 388 to the plate 340, and screws or bolts and washers 912 may be used to attach the second leg assembly 390 to the plate 340.

[0054] Referring to FIG. 10, additional details of the trailer hitch arm assembly 380 are shown. A rotation shaft 1002 may be attached near a hinge end 1003 of the support arm 384, and a hole 1004 may be provided near a hinge end 1005 of the swing arm 382. The rotation shaft 1002 may be inserted into the hole 1004 to facilitate rotation of the swing arm 382 in relation to the support arm 384. A swing arm attachment nut 1006 may be screwed into a hole 1008 in the rotation shaft 1002, to prevent the swing arm 382 from separating from the support arm 384. Washers 1010 may be utilized between the attachment nut 1006 and the rotation shaft 1002. Alternatively, a pin (not shown), with a retainer (not shown) for holding the pin

- 18 - in place, could be used instead of the swing arm attachment nut 1006. Alternatively, a hinge could be attached to the swing arm 382 and the support arm 384 to permit rotation of the swing arm 382 in relation to the support arm 384. A support arm end cap 1012 may be attached near the hinge end 1003 of the support arm 384. A shaft cap 1014 may be attached near the hinge end 1005 of the swing arm 382. A locking pin 1015 may be inserted into (or screwed into) a hole 1016 in a ring 1018 attached to the hinge end 1005 of the swing arm 382, and may be tightened to secure the swing arm 382 at a desired rotational position in relation to the support arm 384. The swing arm may include a bend section 1020, which may have a bend of approximately 90 degrees, and in some examples, a top cap 1022 may be attached near a swing end 1024 of the swing arm 382. License plate attachment members 1026a and 1026b may be included, and may be attached to the swing arm 382 with screws 1028a and 1028b. [0055] In some examples, a cross section of the swing arm 382 may be substantially an oval or substantially a circle, and a cross section of the support arm 384 may be substantially an oval or substantially a circle, which provides the benefit of reduced wind resistance when the swing arm 382 and support arm 384 are attached to a moving vehicle, and the benefit of providing a smooth surface for a user's hands. Typically, the swing arm 382 and the support arm 384 are made of metal, and could be made of any material having sufficient strength.

[0056] In some examples a stanchion 1030 may be attached to the support arm 384 for supporting the swing arm 382 and aligning the swing arm 382 with the support arm 384 when the swing arm 382 is in positioned above the support arm 384, and for holding the swing arm 384 in place above the support arm 384, for example when driving a vehicle that the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 is attached to. A stanchion mating assembly 1032 may be attached to the swing arm 384, for mating with the stanchion 1030 and retaining the swing arm 384 in a position above the support arm 384. The stanchion mating assembly 1032 may be attached to attachment members 1034a, 1034b, which may be attached to the swing arm 382. The stanchion mating assembly 1032 may include a stanchion arm 1036, and a

- 19 - pin 1038 that is inserted through holes in the attachment members 1034a, 1034b, and the stanchion arm 1036. The pin 1038 may also be inserted through holes in springs 1040a and 1040b, which may be included for pushing the stanchion arm 1036 downward to an engaged position with the stanchion 1030. The pin 1038 may be retained in the holes in the attachment members 1034a, 1034b, and the stanchion arm 1036, with a clip 1042, which alternatively could be a nut, which is also a part of the stanchion mating assembly 1032.

[0057] The support arm 384 may be configured for coupling to a trailer hitch 102 of a vehicle 104. In some examples the support arm 384 is configured to have a bend section 1048 that has a bend of approximately 90 degrees. The support arm 384 may have an end section 1050, and a hitch insertion member 1052 may be attached to the end section 1050 of the support arm 384. [0058] In some examples the end section 1050 of the support arm

384 has a longitudinal axis 1054, and a cross section of the support arm end section 1050 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 1054 of the end section 1050 of the support arm 384 is substantially a circle. Also, in some examples the hitch insertion member 1052 has a longitudinal axis 1056 and an exterior surface 1058, and a cross section of the exterior surface 1058 of the hitch insertion member 1052 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 1056 of the hitch insertion member 1052 is substantially rectangular. In some examples, at least a portion of the end section 1050 of the support arm 384 may be inserted into the hitch insertion member 1052. In some examples, the hitch insertion member 1052 could be solid, and in that case the end section 1050 of the support arm 384 need not be inserted into the hitch insertion member 1052.

[0059] The hitch insertion member 1052 may be formed with a first hole 1060 in a first side 1062 of the hitch insertion member 1052 and a second hole 1064 in a second side 1066 of the hitch insertion member 1052, wherein the first and second holes 1060, 1064 in the hitch insertion member have centers that are aligned. In some examples, the hitch insertion member could be solid, and a single hole could be provided through the hitch insertion

- 20 - member instead of the first hole 1060 and the second hole 1064. In some examples the second hole 1064 (or the first hole 1060) of the hitch insertion member 1052 is threaded. The housing for a cooking apparatus 100 may also include a hitch bolt 1068 inserted into the first and second holes 1060, 1064 of the hitch insertion member 1052 and secured to the threaded second hole 1064 of the hitch insertion member 1052, to reduce movement of the support arm 384 when the hitch insertion member 1052 is inserted into a trailer hitch. In some examples the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 may include a hitch nut 1070. The hitch bolt 1068 may be inserted into the first and second holes 1060, 1064 of the hitch insertion member 1052 and secured to the hitch nut 1070, to reduce movement of the support arm 384 when the hitch insertion member 1052 is inserted into a trailer hitch. The hitch nut 1070 could be included both in examples wherein the second hole 1064 of the hitch insertion member 1052 is threaded, and wherein the second hole 1064 of the hitch insertion member 1052 is not threaded. The hitch insertion member

1052 may have an inside, and in some examples, the hitch nut 1070 may be welded to the inside of the hitch insertion member 1052. The hitch bolt 1068 may have a threaded end 1072 for mating with the hitch nut 1070 or with the threaded second hole 1064 of the hitch insertion member. In some examples a clip (discussed below with reference to FIG. 11 ) could be provided instead of the hitch nut 1070, for attachment to the hitch bolt 1068, and in these examples, the hitch bolt 1068 need not have a threaded end 1072, but instead could be formed with a slot for mating with the hitch clip.

[0060] As an example, the hitch insertion member 1052 (shown in FIG. 10) may be sized and shaped to fit into a standard vehicle tubular trailer hitch 102 (shown in FIGS. 1 and 2). However, the hitch insertion member could be sized and shaped to fit other types and sizes of trailer hitches. The opening of the hollow tubular end of a standard vehicle trailer hitch typically is two inches by two inches. This type of trailer hitch is commonly provided in the standard tow package on most pickups, sport utility vehicles, and recreational vehicles. To secure the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 to this type of trailer hitch, the hitch insertion member 1052 is inserted into the rearward facing hollow tubular end 108 of the trailer hitch 102, and the holes

- 21 - 1060, 1064 in the first and second sides 1062, 1066 of the hitch insertion member 1052 are aligned with the hole 110 in the first side and the hole 112 in the second side of the trailer hitch hollow tube 106, and the hitch bolt 1068 is inserted through the holes 1060, 1064 in the first and second sides 1062, 1066 of the hitch insertion member 1052 and through the hole in the first side 110 and the hole in the second side 112 of the trailer hitch hollow tube 106, to attach the hitch insertion member 1052 to the trailer hitch 102.

[0061] In alternative examples, the support arm 384 could have an extended end section that is configured similar to the hitch insertion member 1052, for insertion into the trailer hitch 102. The extended support arm end section could be formed with two hitch holes for alignment with corresponding holes in the trailer hitch, similar to the hitch insertion member 1052. In these alternative examples, the hitch bolt 1068 may be inserted through the two hitch holes in the support arm and secured to the hitch nut 1070 (or to a hitch clip) to reduce movement of the support arm 384 when the support arm 384 is inserted into the trailer hitch 102.

[0062] Referring to FIG. 11 , in some examples wherein the extended end section 1102 of the support arm 384 is inserted into the hitch insertion member 1052, the end section 1102 of the support arm 384 is formed with a first hole 1104 and a second hole 1106, and the hitch insertion member is formed with a first hole 1060 and a second hole 1064, wherein the first hole 1104 of the end section 1102 of the support arm 384 and the first hole 1060 of the hitch insertion member 1052 and the second hole 1106 of the end section 1102 of the support arm 384 and the second hole 1064 of the hitch insertion member have centers that are substantially collinear. The hitch bolt 1068 may be inserted into the first and second holes of the hitch insertion member 1060, 1064 and the first and second holes 1104, 1106 of the end section 1102 of the support arm 384, and secured to the hitch clip 1108, to reduce movement of the support arm 384 when the support arm is inserted into a trailer hitch. In other examples, a hitch nut 1070 (shown in FIG. 10) could be used instead of the hitch clip 1108, and in these examples, the threaded end 1072 of the hitch bolt 1068 could mate with the hitch nut 1070. In some examples, the second hole 1064 of the hitch insertion member 1052, and/or

- 22 - the second hole 1106 in the extended end section 1102 of the support arm 384 are threaded, and the threaded end 1072 of the hitch bolt 1068 is secured to the threaded holes 1064 and/or 1106, instead of, or in addition to, the hitch clip 1108, to reduce movement of the support arm 384 when the support arm 384 is inserted into a trailer hitch.

[0063] The hitch bolt 1068, in conjunction with the hitch clip 1108, or in conjunction with a hitch nut 1070, and/or in conjunction with a threaded hole in the hitch insertion member 1052 and/or the extended end section 1102 of the support arm 384, may be called a hitch stabilizer. If the hitch bolt 1068 has a threaded end 1072, the hitch bolt 1068 can be tightened to push the hitch insertion member 1052 (and/or the extended end section 1102 of the support arm 384) to a side of the trailer hitch to prevent rattling.

[0064] Referring to FIG. 12, another view of the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 is shown, in which a fuel tank 1202 is supported by the fuel tank retaining member 342. Still referring to FIG. 12, the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 could also include a ground support post 1204, which may be attached to the swing arm 382. The ground support post may be one piece, or as shown, may have a telescoping end portion 1206 inserted into a base portion 1208, for adjusting the length of the ground support post 1204. A base 1210 may be attached to an end of the ground support post 1204, and for example, may be attached to an end of the telescoping end portion1206. In some examples, holes 1212 may be provided in the ground support post 1204 for inserting one or more bolts or pins for locking the length of the ground support post 1204. When extended to come in contact with the ground, the ground support post 1204 helps support the weight of the housing for a cooking apparatus 100. In some examples, a ground support post hinge may be attached to the swing arm 382, and the ground support post 1204 may be attached to the ground support post hinge, to permit swinging the ground support post 1204 from a first position near the swing arm 382, to a second position wherein an end (which may be the base 1210) of the ground support post 1204 is in contact with the ground. In some examples the hinge may be a pin or bolt 1214 that is inserted through a hole in the ground support post 1204, and that is attached to the swing arm 382, to rotatably attach the

- 23 - ground support post 1204 to the swing arm 382. A ground support post retaining clip or spring (not shown) could be attached to the swing arm 382, for securing the ground support post 1204 in a retracted position adjacent the swing arm 382. In other embodiments (not shown) the ground support post could be slidably attached to the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 for vertical movement from a first position wherein the ground support post is adjacent the swing arm 382, to a second position wherein an end of the ground support post is in contact with the ground.

[0065] In alternative examples, the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 could be adapted to be attached to the frame of a vehicle, rather than being selectably (removably) attachable to a trailer hitch. For example, the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 could be permanently attached to the frame of a recreational vehicle. In other examples, the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 could be adapted to attach to a bumper of a vehicle. In these alternative examples, a support arm could be adapted to be attached directly to the frame or bumper of the vehicle. In some examples, one or more attachment members (not shown) could be attached to the support arm for attachment to the vehicle frame or bumper. Alternatively, the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 could be attached to a portion of the vehicle other than the frame or a bumper.

[0066] FIG. 13 shows an example of the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 that does not include the trailer hitch arm assembly 380 (or wherein the trailer hitch arm assembly 380 has been removed from the housing for a cooking apparatus 100), wherein the hood 302 is in a closed position, and wherein the utility tray 362 is in the closed first position, and wherein the top surface 352 of the first side shelf 350 and the top surface of the second side shelf 356 (shown in FIG. 3) are located beneath the hood 302 between the first side 344 of the pan 332 (shown in FIG. 3) and the second side 346 of the pan 332. [0067] FIG. 14 shows an example of the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 that does not include the trailer hitch arm assembly 380 (or wherein the trailer hitch arm assembly 380 has been removed from the housing for a cooking apparatus 100), wherein the hood 302 is in an open

- 24 - position, and wherein the utility tray 362 is open, in the second position for use wherein the utility tray surface 364 is substantially horizontal, and wherein the top surface 352 of the first side shelf 350 and the top surface 356 of the second side shelf 354 are positioned outside of the pan 332 for use.

III. OPERATION

[0068] In addition to the various hardware embodiments described above, different aspects of the invention concern a method of using a housing for a cooking apparatus, and a method of using a cooking apparatus.

Overall Sequence of Operation

[0069] An example of a method aspect of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 15, which is a flowchart of an operational sequence 1500 for a method of using a housing for a cooking apparatus in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention. For ease of explanation, but without any limitation intended, the example of FIG. 15 is described in the context of the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 described above. For many examples of the invention, only a subset of the operations of the sequence 1500 are included. [0070] The sequence 1500 may begin with operation 1502, which comprises swinging the hood 302 to an open position. The sequence may also include operation 1504, which comprises swinging the top surface 352 of the first side shelf 350 to a position outside of the pan 332. The sequence may also include operation 1506, which comprises swinging the top surface 356 of the second side shelf 354 to a position outside of the pan 332. The sequence may also include operation 1508, which comprises rotating the utility tray surface 364 from a first orientation to a substantially horizontal orientation. The sequence may also include operation 1510, which comprises rotating the surface 364 of the utility tray 362 from the substantially horizontal orientation to the first orientation. The sequence may also include operation 1512, which comprises swinging the top surface 352 of the first side shelf 350 to a position between the first side 344 and the second side 346 of the pan 332. The sequence may also include operation 1514, which comprises

- 25 - swinging the top surface 356 of the second side shelf 354 to a position between the first side 344 and the second side 346 of the pan 332. The sequence may also include operation 1516, which comprises swinging the hood 302 to a closed position. [0071] Another example of a method aspect of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 16, which is a flowchart of an operational sequence 1600 for a method of using a cooking apparatus in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention. For ease of explanation, but without any intended limitation, the example of FIG. 16 is described in the context of the housing for a cooking apparatus 100 described above. For many examples of the invention, only a subset of the operations of the sequence 1600 are included.

[0072] The sequence 1600 may begin with operation 1602, which comprises selecting an insert member 330 from a plurality of insert members. The sequence may also include operation 1604, which comprises attaching the selected insert member 330 to a bezel 310 of the cooking apparatus, wherein the selected insert member 330 is attached to the bezel 310 adjacent an insert member receiving area 702 of the bezel 310. The sequence may also include operation 1606, which comprises rotating a surface 364 of a utility tray 362 from a first orientation to a substantially horizontal orientation.

IV. OTHER EMBODIMENTS

[0073] A number of illustrative embodiments of the invention have been described herein. It will be apparent to persons skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made to the described embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the following claims. Also, although elements of the invention may be described or claimed herein in the singular, the plural is contemplated unless limitation to the singular is explicitly stated.

- 26 -

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A housing for a cooking apparatus, comprising: a hood; a bezel attached to the hood, wherein the bezel is configured to have an insert member receiving area; and an insert member attached to the housing for the cooking apparatus adjacent the insert member receiving area.

2. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the insert member receiving area has a receiving area surface, and wherein the insert member has a back that touches the receiving area surface.

3. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the insert member receiving area has a receiving area surface, and wherein the insert member has a back that is spaced from the receiving area surface.

4. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the insert member is removably attached to the bezel.

5. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the insert member is removably attached to the hood.

6. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the insert member receiving area has an outer edge, and wherein the bezel has a lip that substantially surrounds the outer edge of the insert member receiving area.

7. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 6, wherein the outer edge of the insert member receiving area is substantially oval shaped.

- 27 -

8. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the insert member receiving area includes a receiving area surface having a first retainer hole, and wherein the insert member has a first retainer arm inserted into the first retainer hole.

9. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the insert member receiving area includes a receiving area surface having a first retainer hole and a second retainer hole, and wherein the insert member has a first retainer arm inserted into the first retainer hole of the receiving area surface, and wherein the insert member has a second retainer arm inserted into the second retainer hole of the receiving area surface, for securing the insert member to the bezel.

10. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 9, wherein the insert member has a third retainer arm inserted into the first retainer hole of the receiving area surface, and wherein the insert member has a fourth retainer arm inserted into the second retainer hole of the receiving area surface, for securing the insert member to the bezel.

11. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the bezel has a front, and wherein the insert member receiving area is defined by a recessed portion of the bezel, wherein the recessed portion of the bezel has an outer edge that is contiguous with the front of the bezel.

12. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the bezel has a front, a top, and a bottom, and wherein the insert member receiving area has an outer edge, and wherein the front of the bezel includes a lip substantially surrounding the outer edge of the insert member receiving area, and wherein the bezel is further configured to have a first trough between the insert member receiving area and the top of the bezel, and a second trough between the insert member receiving area and the bottom of the bezel.

- 28 -

13. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 12, wherein the lip has an upper rear portion that extends into the first trough, and a lower rear portion that extends into the second trough.

14. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 12, wherein the bezel defines a bezel longitudinal axis, and wherein the first trough has a longitudinal axis and the second trough has a longitudinal axis, and wherein the longitudinal axis of the first trough and the longitudinal axis of the second trough are substantially parallel to the bezel longitudinal axis.

15. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the insert member has an identifier face, and further comprising an identifier attached to the identifier face.

16. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 1 , wherein an identifier is formed in the insert member, and wherein the identifier defines an identifier face of the insert member.

17. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the hood has a face that has a bottom edge, and wherein the bezel has a ledge that extends below the bottom edge of the face of the hood, to facilitate lifting the bezel to open the hood.

18. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the hood has a face that has a top edge and a bottom edge, and wherein the bezel has a top and a bottom, and wherein a distance between the top and the bottom of the bezel is greater than a distance between the top edge and the bottom edge of the face of the hood.

19. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the bezel has a top and a bottom, and the bezel has back that has a bottom edge, and wherein a distance between the top and the bottom of the bezel is greater

- 29 - than a distance between the top of the bezel and bottom edge of the back of the bezel.

20. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the hood has a face, and wherein the bezel has a back and a bottom, and wherein the bezel is further configured to provide a finger space between at least a portion of the back of the bezel and the face of the hood proximate the bottom of the bezel, to facilitate using the bezel as a handle for lifting the hood, wherein the finger space provides a space of at least 1 cm between at least a portion of the back of the bezel and the face of the hood proximate the bottom of the bezel.

21. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the bezel is removable from the hood.

22. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the hood has a face, and wherein the bezel substantially covers the face of the hood.

23. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 1 : wherein the hood has a face; and further comprising a heat shield attached to the hood and the bezel, wherein the heat shield is located at least partially between the face of the hood and the bezel.

24. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a plurality of spacers attached to the hood between the hood and the bezel, for providing space between the hood and the bezel.

25. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a pan, wherein the hood is rotatably coupled to the pan.

26. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 25, further comprising:

- 30 - a utility tray having a utility tray surface, wherein the utility tray is rotatably attached to the pan, for placing the utility tray surface in a first position for storage and in a second position for use.

27. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 25, further comprising: a control panel attached to the pan; and a utility tray having a utility tray surface, wherein the utility tray is rotatably attached to the control panel, for placing the utility tray surface in a first position for storage and in a second position for use.

28. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 25, further comprising: a first arm attached to the pan; a second arm attached to the pan; a utility tray having a utility tray surface, wherein the utility tray is rotatably attached to the first arm and the second arm, for placing the utility tray surface in a first position for storage and in a second position for use.

29. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 25, further comprising: a control panel, wherein the control panel has a first side and a second side, and wherein the control panel is attached to the pan; a first arm attached to the control panel proximate the fist side of the control panel; a second arm attached to the control panel proximate the second side of the control panel; a utility tray having a utility tray surface, wherein the utility tray is rotatably attached to the first arm and the second arm, for placing the utility tray surface in a first position for storage and in a second position for use.

30. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 29, wherein the utility tray surface is substantially vertical when the utility tray surface is in the first position for storage, and wherein the utility tray surface is substantially horizontal when the utility tray surface is in the second position for use.

- 31 -

31. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 25, further comprising a cooking surface coupled to the pan.

32. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 31 , wherein the cooking surface is a grill.

33. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 25, further comprising a plate attached to the pan.

34. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 33, further comprising a fuel tank retaining member attached to the plate, for securing the fuel tank to the housing for a cooking apparatus.

35. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 33, wherein the plate has a first side and a second side, and further comprising: a first leg assembly attached to the plate proximate the first side of the plate; and a second leg assembly attached to the plate proximate the second side of the plate.

36. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 35, further comprising: a swing arm attached to the plate; and a support arm, wherein the swing arm is rotatably attached to the support arm.

37. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising: a pan having a first side and a second side, wherein the hood is rotatably coupled to the pan; and a first side shelf rotatably attached to the pan proximate the first side of the pan, wherein the first side shelf has a top surface, and wherein the first side shelf is configured for positioning the top surface of the first side shelf in a first position between the first side and the second side of the pan for storage, and in a second position outside of the pan for use.

- 32 -

38. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 37, further comprising: a second side shelf rotatably attached to the pan proximate the second side of the pan, wherein the second side shelf has a top surface, and wherein the second side shelf is configured for positioning the top surface of the second side shelf in a first position between the first side and the second side of the pan for storage, and in a second position outside of the pan for use.

39. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising: a pan having a first side and a second side, wherein the hood is rotatably coupled to the pan; a first handle attached to the first side of the pan; a second handle attached to the second side of the pan; a first side shelf rotatably attached to the first handle, wherein the first side shelf has a top surface, and wherein the first side shelf is configured for positioning the top surface of the first side shelf in a first position between the first side and the second side of the pan for storage, and in a second position outside of the pan for use; and a second side shelf rotatably attached to the second handle, wherein the second side shelf has a top surface, and wherein the second side shelf is configured for positioning the top surface of the second side shelf in a first position between the first side and the second side of the pan for storage, and in a second position outside of the pan for use.

40. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 25, further comprising: a swing arm attached to the pan; and a support arm, wherein the swing arm is rotatably attached to the support arm.

41. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 40, wherein a cross section of the swing arm is substantially a circle, and a cross section of the support arm is substantially a circle.

- 33 -

42. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 40, further comprising: a stanchion attached to the support arm for supporting the swing arm and aligning the swing arm with the support arm; and a stanchion arm attached to the swing arm for alignment with the stanchion.

43. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 25, further comprising: a plate attached to the pan; a swing arm attached to the plate; and a support arm, wherein the swing arm is rotatably attached to the support arm.

44. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 43, further comprising: a collar attached to the plate for receiving the swing arm; and a hinge attached to the swing arm and the support arm.

45. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 43, wherein: the support arm is configured to have a bend of approximately 90 degrees; the support arm has an end section configured for insertion into a trailer hitch; and wherein the support arm end section is formed with two hitch holes; and further comprising: a hitch nut; and a hitch bolt inserted through the two hitch holes and secured to the hitch nut to reduce movement of the support arm when the support arm is inserted into the trailer hitch.

46. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 43, wherein the support arm has an end section, and further comprising: a hitch insertion member attached to the end section of the support arm.

- 34 -

47. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 43, wherein the support arm has an end section, and further comprising: a hitch insertion member, wherein the end section of the support arm is inserted into the hitch insertion member, and the hitch insertion member is attached to the end section of the support arm.

48. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 47, wherein the end section of the support arm is formed with a first hole and a second hole, and wherein the hitch insertion member is formed with a first hole and a second hole, and wherein the first hole of the end section of the support arm and the first hole of the hitch insertion member and the second hole of the end section of the support arm and the second hole of the hitch insertion member have centers that are substantially col linear.

49. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 48, wherein the second hole of the hitch insertion member is threaded, and further comprising: a hitch bolt inserted into the first and second holes of the hitch insertion member and the first and second holes of the end section of the support arm, and secured to the threaded second hole of the hitch insertion member, to reduce movement of the support arm when the support arm is inserted into a trailer hitch.

50. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 48, wherein the second hole of the end section of the support arm is threaded, and further comprising: a hitch bolt inserted into the first and second holes of the hitch insertion member and the first and second holes of the end section of the support arm, and secured to the threaded second hole of the end section of the support arm, to reduce movement of the support arm when the support arm is inserted into a trailer hitch.

51. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 48, further comprising: a hitch nut; and

- 35 - a hitch bolt inserted into the first and second holes of the hitch insertion member and the first and second holes of the end section of the support arm, and secured to the hitch nut, to reduce movement of the support arm when the support arm is inserted into a trailer hitch.

52. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 43, wherein: the support arm has an end section; the end section of the support arm has a longitudinal axis; a cross section of the support arm end section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the end section of the support arm is substantially a circle; the hitch insertion member has a longitudinal axis and an exterior surface; a cross section of the exterior surface of the hitch insertion member perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the hitch insertion member is substantially rectangular; and at least a portion of the end section of the support arm is inserted into the hitch insertion member.

53. A housing for a cooking apparatus, comprising: a pan; a swing arm attached to the pan; a support arm rotatably attached to the swing arm, wherein the support arm has an end section formed with a first hole and a second hole; a hitch bolt inserted in the first hole and the second hole of the support arm; and a hitch nut secured to the hitch bolt.

54. A housing for a cooking apparatus, comprising: a pan; a swing arm attached to the pan; a support arm rotatably attached to the swing arm, wherein the support arm has an end section;

- 36 - a hitch insertion member attached to the end section of the support arm; wherein the hitch insertion member is formed with a first hole and a second hole; and wherein the second hole of the hitch insertion member is threaded, and further comprising: a hitch bolt inserted into the first and second holes of the hitch insertion member and secured to the threaded second hole of the hitch insertion member, to reduce movement of the support arm when the hitch insertion member is inserted into a trailer hitch.

55. A housing for a cooking apparatus, comprising: a pan; a swing arm attached to the pan; a support arm rotatably attached to the swing arm, wherein the support arm has an end section; a hitch insertion member attached to the end section of the support arm, wherein the hitch insertion member is formed with a first hole and a second hole; a hitch nut; and a hitch bolt inserted into the first and second holes of the hitch insertion member and secured to the hitch nut, to reduce movement of the support arm when the hitch insertion member is inserted into a trailer hitch.

56. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 55, wherein the hitch insertion member has an inside, and wherein the hitch nut is welded to the inside of the hitch insertion member.

57. A housing for a cooking apparatus, comprising: a pan; a swing arm attached to the pan; a support arm rotatably attached to the swing arm, wherein the support arm has an end section;

- 37 - a hitch insertion member, wherein the end section of the support arm is inserted into the hitch insertion member and is attached to the end section of the support arm; wherein the end section of the support arm is formed with a first hole and a second hole, and wherein the hitch insertion member is formed with a first hole and a second hole, and wherein the first hole of the end section of the support arm and the first hole of the hitch insertion member and the second hole of the end section of the support arm and the second hole of the hitch insertion member have centers that are substantially collinear.

58. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 57, wherein the second hole of the hitch insertion member is threaded, and further comprising: a hitch bolt inserted into the first and second holes of the hitch insertion member and the first and second holes of the end section of the support arm, and secured to the threaded second hole of the hitch insertion member, to reduce movement of the support arm when the support arm is inserted into a trailer hitch.

59. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 57, wherein the second hole of the end section of the support arm is threaded, and further comprising: a hitch bolt inserted into the first and second holes of the hitch insertion member and the first and second holes of the end section of the support arm, and secured to the threaded second hole of the end section of the support arm, to reduce movement of the support arm when the support arm is inserted into a trailer hitch.

60. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 57, further comprising: a hitch nut; and a hitch bolt inserted into the first and second holes of the hitch insertion member and the first and second holes of the end section of the support arm, and secured to the hitch nut, to reduce movement of the support arm when the support arm is inserted into a trailer hitch.

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61. A housing for a cooking apparatus, comprising: a pan; and a utility tray having a utility tray surface, wherein the utility tray is rotatably attached to the pan, for placing the utility tray surface in a first position for storage and in a second position for use.

62. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 61 , further comprising: a control panel attached to the pan, wherein the control panel has a first side and a second side; a first arm attached to the control panel proximate the first side of the control panel; a second arm attached to the control panel proximate the second side of the control panel; and wherein the utility tray is rotatably attached to the first arm and the second arm, for placing the utility tray surface in the first position for storage and in the second position for use.

63. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 61 , wherein the utility tray surface is substantially vertical when the utility tray surface is in the first position, and wherein the utility tray surface is substantially horizontal when the utility tray surface is in the second position for use.

64. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 61 , further comprising: a hood rotatably attached to the pan; a bezel attached to the hood, wherein the bezel is configured to have an insert member receiving area; and an insert member attached to the housing for a cooking apparatus adjacent the insert member receiving area.

65. A housing for a cooking apparatus, comprising: a pan having a first side and a second side; a first side shelf rotatably attached to the pan proximate the first side of the pan, wherein the first side shelf has a top surface, and wherein the first

- 39 - side shelf is configured for positioning the top surface of the first side shelf in a first position between the first side and the second side of the pan for storage, and in a second position outside of the pan for use; a second side shelf rotatably attached to the pan proximate the second side of the pan, wherein the second side shelf has a top surface, and wherein the second side shelf is configured for positioning the top surface of the second side shelf in a first position between the first side and the second side of the pan for storage, and in a second position outside of the pan for use; a swing arm attached to the pan; and a support arm, wherein the swing arm is rotatably attached to the support arm, and wherein the support arm is configured for coupling to a trailer hitch of a vehicle.

66. A housing for a cooking apparatus, comprising: a pan having a first side and a second side; a first handle attached to the first side of the pan; a second handle attached to the second side of the pan; a first side shelf rotatably attached to the first handle, wherein the first side shelf has a top surface, and wherein the first side shelf is configured for positioning the top surface of the first side shelf in a first position between the first side and the second side of the pan for storage, and in a second position outside of the pan for use; a second side shelf rotatably attached to the second handle, wherein the second side shelf has a top surface, and wherein the second side shelf is configured for positioning the top surface of the second side shelf in a first position between the first side and the second side of the pan for storage, and in a second position outside of the pan for use; a swing arm attached to the pan; and a support arm, wherein the swing arm is rotatably attached to the support arm, and wherein the support arm is configured for coupling to a trailer hitch of a vehicle.

67. A housing for a cooking apparatus, comprising:

- 40 - a pan; a first leg assembly attached to the pan, the first leg assembly being configured to be removable from the pan; a second leg assembly attached to the pan, the second leg assembly being configured to be removable from the pan; a swing arm attached to the pan, wherein the swing arm is configured to be removable from the pan; and a support arm, wherein the swing arm is rotatably attached to the support arm, and wherein the support arm is configured for coupling to a trailer hitch of a vehicle.

68. A housing for a cooking apparatus, comprising: a pan; a plate attached to the pan, wherein the plate has a first side and a second side; a first leg assembly attached to the plate proximate the first side of the plate, wherein the first leg assembly is configured to be removable from the plate; a second leg assembly attached to the plate proximate the second side of the plate, wherein the second leg assembly is configured to be removable from the plate; a swing arm attached to the plate, wherein the swing arm is configured to be removable from the plate; and a support arm, wherein the swing arm is rotatably attached to the support arm, and wherein the support arm is configured for coupling to a trailer hitch of a vehicle.

69. The housing for a cooking apparatus of claim 68, wherein the pan has a first side and a second side, and further comprising: a hood rotatably attached to the pan; a first side shelf rotatably attached to the pan proximate the first side of the pan, wherein the first side shelf has a top surface, and wherein the first side shelf is configured for positioning the top surface of the first side shelf in

- 41 - a first position between the first side and the second side of the pan for storage, and in a second position outside of the pan for use; a second side shelf rotatably attached to the pan proximate the second side of the pan, wherein the second side shelf has a top surface, and wherein the second side shelf is configured for positioning the top surface of the second side shelf in a first position between the first side and the second side of the pan for storage, and in a second position outside of the pan for use; and a utility tray having a utility tray surface, wherein the utility tray is rotatably attached to the pan, for placing the utility tray surface in a first position for storage and in a second position for use.

70. A housing for a cooking apparatus, comprising: a pan; a hood rotatably attached to the pan; a bezel attached to the hood; wherein the hood has a face that has a bottom, and wherein the bezel has a ledge that extends below the bottom of the face of the hood, to facilitate lifting the bezel to open the hood.

71. A cooking apparatus, comprising: a pan; a cooking surface coupled to the pan; a hood rotatably attached to the pan; a bezel attached to the hood, wherein the bezel is configured to have an insert member receiving area; and an insert member attached to the cooking apparatus adjacent the insert member receiving area.

72. The cooking apparatus of claim 71 , further comprising: a utility tray having a utility tray surface, wherein the utility tray is rotatably attached to the pan, for placing the utility tray surface in a first position for storage and in a second position for use.

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73. The cooking apparatus of claim 72, wherein the pan has a first side and a second side, and further comprising: a first side shelf rotatably attached to the pan proximate the first side of the pan, wherein the first side shelf has a top surface, and wherein the first side shelf is configured for positioning the top surface of the first side shelf in a first position between the first side and the second side of the pan for storage, and in a second position outside of the pan for use; and a second side shelf rotatably attached to the pan proximate the second side of the pan, wherein the second side shelf has a top surface, and wherein the second side shelf is configured for positioning the top surface of the second side shelf in a first position between the first side and the second side of the pan for storage, and in a second position outside of the pan for use.

74. The cooking apparatus of claim 73, further comprising: a swing arm attached to the pan, wherein the swing arm is configured to be removable from the pan; and a support arm, wherein the swing arm is rotatably attached to the support arm, and wherein the support arm is configured for coupling to a trailer hitch of a vehicle.

75. A method of using the housing for the cooking apparatus of claim 69, wherein the method comprises the following operations: swinging the hood to an open position; swinging the top surface of the first side shelf to a position outside of the pan; swinging the top surface of the second side shelf to a position outside of the pan; and rotating the surface of the utility tray from a first orientation to a substantially horizontal orientation.

76. The method of claim 75, further comprising:

- 43 - rotating the surface of the utility tray from the substantially horizontal orientation to the first orientation; swinging the top surface of the first side shelf to a position between the first side and the second side of the pan; swinging the top surface of the second side shelf to a position between the first side and the second side of the pan; and swinging the hood to a closed position.

77. A method of using a cooking apparatus, wherein the method comprises the following operations: selecting an insert member from a plurality of insert members; attaching the selected insert member to a bezel of the cooking apparatus, wherein the selected insert member is attached to the bezel adjacent an insert member receiving area of the bezel; and rotating a surface of a utility tray from a first orientation to a substantially horizontal orientation.

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