Abstract

A remote temperature monitoring system includes a first unit operatively connected to one or more temperature sensors for sensing the temperature of one or more materials or food items being cooked or heated. The first unit transmits the sensed temperature to a second unit that is located remotely from the first unit during heating. The second unit is programmable with the desired temperature and/or heating parameters of the item. By monitoring the temperature status of the item over time, the system determines when the food has reached the desired temperature or degree of cooking, and notifies the user.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08B 21/18 - Status alarms
• A47J 36/00 - Parts, details or accessories of cooking-vessels
• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues
• G01K 1/024 - Means for indicating or recording specially adapted for thermometers for remote indication
• H04Q 9/00 - Arrangements in telecontrol or telemetry systems for selectively calling a substation from a main station, in which substation desired apparatus is selected for applying a control signal thereto or for obtaining measured values therefrom

Abstract

Pellet grills including a control system that implements, manages, and/or controls various ignition-based protocols are disclosed. An example pellet grill includes a cooking chamber, a burn pot, an ignitor, and a controller. The ignitor extends into the burn pot and is configured to ignite pellet fuel located within the burn pot. The controller is configured to detect a temperature pattern of the cooking chamber corresponding to a flame out condition of the burn pot. The controller is further configured, in response to detecting the temperature pattern, to command the ignitor to activate during a first duration. The controller is further configured to determine, following expiration of the first duration, whether a temperature of the cooking chamber increased during the first duration. The controller is further configured, in response to determining that the temperature has not increased during the first duration, to command the ignitor to activate during a second duration.

IPC Classes  ?

• F24B 1/02 - Closed stoves
• F24B 1/00 - Stoves or ranges
• F23Q 7/02 - Incandescent ignition; Ignition using electrically-produced heat, e.g. lighters for cigarettes; Electrically-heated glowing plugs for igniting solid fuel
• G07C 3/10 - Registering or indicating the production of the machine either with or without registering working or idle time using counting means
• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues
• A47J 36/32 - Time-controlled igniting mechanisms or alarm devices
• F24B 13/04 - Arrangements for feeding solid fuel, e.g. hoppers

Abstract

Pellet grills and associated methods of operation are disclosed. An example pellet grill includes a waste collection drawer and one or more processors. The waste collection drawer is movable between a closed position and an open position. The one or more processors are configured to determine whether a duty cycle of the waste collection drawer has violated a threshold corresponding to a predetermined usage expectancy of the waste collection drawer. In response to determining that the duty cycle has violated the threshold, the one or more processors are configured to generate a notification indicating that the threshold has been violated.

IPC Classes  ?

• F24B 13/04 - Arrangements for feeding solid fuel, e.g. hoppers
• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues
• F23B 40/08 - Combustion apparatus with driven means for feeding fuel into the combustion chamber the fuel being fed along the fuel-supporting surface into pot- or trough-shaped grates
• H04L 67/125 - Protocols specially adapted for proprietary or special-purpose networking environments, e.g. medical networks, sensor networks, networks in vehicles or remote metering networks involving control of end-device applications over a network
• F24B 15/00 - Implements for use in connection with stoves or ranges
• G05B 23/02 - Electric testing or monitoring
• A47J 36/32 - Time-controlled igniting mechanisms or alarm devices

Abstract

Example portable grills including a base having supports for storing removable side tables are disclosed. An example portable grill includes a cookbox, a base, and a side table. The base is coupled to the cookbox. The base is configured to support the cookbox above an underlying surface onto which the base is to be placed. The side table is configured to be removably coupled to the base in a storage position. The side table is to be located beneath the cookbox when the side table is coupled to the base in the storage position.

IPC Classes  ?

• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues
• F24C 3/14 - Stoves or ranges for gaseous fuels with special adaptation for travelling, e.g. collapsible

Abstract

Example portable grills having reversible steam tray assemblies are disclosed. An example portable grill includes a cookbox, a heating element, a water pan, and a steam tray. The heating element is located within the cookbox. The water pan is located within the cookbox above the heating element. The water pan includes a bottom wall. The steam tray is located within the water pan. The steam tray includes a horizontally-oriented support wall having a plurality of openings extending therethrough. The steam tray is configured to be reversibly positioned within the water pan in a first orientation and a second orientation. The support wall is spaced from the bottom wall by a first distance when the steam tray is positioned in the first orientation. The support wall is spaced from the bottom wall by a second distance greater than the first distance when the steam tray is positioned in the second orientation.

IPC Classes  ?

• A47J 37/06 - Roasters; Grills; Sandwich grills

Abstract

Pellet grills and associated methods of operation are disclosed. An example pellet grill includes a lid, a cooking chamber, an engine, and one or more processors. The lid is movable between a closed position and an open position. The engine is configured to output heat to the cooking chamber. The one or more processors are configured to detect a closing movement of the lid. In response to detecting the closing movement, the one or more processors are configured to command the engine to operate in an increased output mode that increases the heat output of the engine.

IPC Classes  ?

• F24B 13/04 - Arrangements for feeding solid fuel, e.g. hoppers
• F24B 15/00 - Implements for use in connection with stoves or ranges
• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues
• F23B 40/08 - Combustion apparatus with driven means for feeding fuel into the combustion chamber the fuel being fed along the fuel-supporting surface into pot- or trough-shaped grates
• H04L 67/125 - Protocols specially adapted for proprietary or special-purpose networking environments, e.g. medical networks, sensor networks, networks in vehicles or remote metering networks involving control of end-device applications over a network
• A47J 36/32 - Time-controlled igniting mechanisms or alarm devices
• G05B 23/02 - Electric testing or monitoring

Abstract

Provided is an apparatus and method for a digital power supply that can provide independent power control for two or more electrical loads. Some disclosed embodiments provide continuous, variable power and other disclosed embodiments provide discrete power levels. Disclosed embodiments may reduce the magnitude of harmonic currents and/or flicker introduced into a power system. Embodiments include a microprocessor that delivers power to electric loads using phase-controlled AC current. In some embodiments, the microprocessor may calculate a power array corresponding to a requested power for each electric load. Logic is provided for populating the power array in a pattern that reduces the magnitude of harmonic currents and flicker. Portions of the disclosure include a band controller for delivering power to achieve and maintain a desired target temperature, and a wireless controller for controlling temperature from a remote device.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 1/3206 - Monitoring of events, devices or parameters that trigger a change in power modality
• G06F 1/26 - Power supply means, e.g. regulation thereof
• H04B 1/16 - Circuits
• A47J 37/06 - Roasters; Grills; Sandwich grills

Abstract

Example methods and apparatus for communicating control signals in a gas grill are disclosed herein. An example user-interface assembly for use in a grill includes control knob, knob sensor to detect a user interaction with the control knob, lighting circuitry including a plurality of light emitting diodes, and user-interface controller circuitry to identify an addressing block connected via an input wiring harness, the knob controller to select an address to be used to communicate with a central controller of the gas grill.

IPC Classes  ?

• F24C 3/12 - Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices
• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues

Abstract

Example methods and apparatus for presenting location-based food movement notifications in connection with cook programs of grills are disclosed. An example grill includes a cookbox, a lid, a cooking chamber, a controller, and a lighting module. The cooking chamber is defined by the cookbox and the lid. The controller implements a cook program to cook an item of food within the cooking chamber. The cook program includes a food movement step requiring the item of food to be added to the cooking chamber, to be removed from the cooking chamber, or to be moved within the cooking chamber. In response to determining that the cook program has advanced to the food movement step, the controller causes the lighting module to present a location-based food movement notification indicating a location within the cooking chamber at which the food movement step is to be performed.

IPC Classes  ?

• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues
• A47J 36/32 - Time-controlled igniting mechanisms or alarm devices
• A23L 5/10 - General methods of cooking foods, e.g. by roasting or frying

Abstract

Provided is an apparatus and method for protecting against unsafe electric current conditions. A protections circuit may be used in a device, such as an electric grill, that has one or more electric loads, such as heating elements. The protection circuit may protect against various failure scenarios, including, without limitation, instances of ground fault, over current, driver failure, and failure of a microprocessor. In response to a failure, the protection circuit may trip a latch relay or disable a triac driver to stop current from flowing.

IPC Classes  ?

• H05B 1/02 - Automatic switching arrangements specially adapted to heating apparatus
• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues
• A47J 37/06 - Roasters; Grills; Sandwich grills
• H02H 3/16 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements for automatic disconnection directly responsive to an undesired change from normal electric working condition, with or without subsequent reconnection responsive to fault current to earth, frame or mass
• H02H 3/10 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements for automatic disconnection directly responsive to an undesired change from normal electric working condition, with or without subsequent reconnection responsive to excess current additionally responsive to some other abnormal electrical conditions
• H02H 3/32 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements for automatic disconnection directly responsive to an undesired change from normal electric working condition, with or without subsequent reconnection responsive to phase angle between voltages or between currents involving comparison of the voltage or current values at corresponding points in different conductors of a single system, e.g. of currents in go and return conductors
• H02H 1/00 - EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS - Details of emergency protective circuit arrangements
• H02H 3/08 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements for automatic disconnection directly responsive to an undesired change from normal electric working condition, with or without subsequent reconnection responsive to excess current

Abstract

Pellet grills including a control system that implements, manages, and/or controls various ignition-based protocols and/or processes are disclosed. An example pellet grill includes a cooking chamber, a burn pot, an ignitor, and a controller. The ignitor extends into the burn pot and is configured to ignite pellet fuel located within the burn pot. The controller is configured to command the ignitor to activate during a first duration. The controller is further configured to determine, following expiration of the first duration, whether a temperature of the cooking chamber has reached a threshold temperature. The controller is further configured, in response to determining that the temperature has not reached the threshold temperature, to command the ignitor to activate during a second duration.

IPC Classes  ?

• F24B 1/02 - Closed stoves
• F24B 1/00 - Stoves or ranges
• F23Q 7/02 - Incandescent ignition; Ignition using electrically-produced heat, e.g. lighters for cigarettes; Electrically-heated glowing plugs for igniting solid fuel
• G07C 3/10 - Registering or indicating the production of the machine either with or without registering working or idle time using counting means
• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues
• A47J 36/32 - Time-controlled igniting mechanisms or alarm devices
• F24B 13/04 - Arrangements for feeding solid fuel, e.g. hoppers

Abstract

Example methods and apparatus for presenting safety-based temperature status notifications for grills are disclosed. An example grill includes a controller to determine whether a condition indicative of a safety-based temperature status of the grill is satisfied. In response to determining that the condition is satisfied, the controller is to instruct a lighting module or a user interface of the grill to present a notification indicating the safety-based temperature status.

IPC Classes  ?

• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues

Abstract

Example methods and apparatus for supplying configuration data to controllers of grills are disclosed. An example grill includes a controller and a dongle. The dongle is connectable to the controller. The dongle includes memory storing configuration data associated with the grill. The controller is to read the configuration data from the memory in response to the dongle being connected to the controller.

IPC Classes  ?

• A47J 36/32 - Time-controlled igniting mechanisms or alarm devices
• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues

Abstract

Example methods and apparatus for automatically advancing steps of cook programs for grills based on detected lid position data are disclosed. An example grill includes a cookbox, a lid, a cooking chamber, and a controller. The lid is movable relative to the cookbox between a closed position and an open position. The cooking chamber is defined by the cookbox and the lid, and is accessible to a user of the grill when the lid is in the open position. The controller is to implement a cook program to cook an item of food within the cooking chamber. The cook program includes a plurality of ordered steps, which include a lid-opening step requiring the lid to be moved from the closed position to the open position. In response to determining, based on lid position data, that the lid-opening step has been performed, the controller is to automatically advance the plurality of ordered steps from the lid-opening step to a next step of the plurality of ordered steps.

IPC Classes  ?

• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues
• A23L 5/10 - General methods of cooking foods, e.g. by roasting or frying
• F24C 15/02 - Doors specially adapted for stoves or ranges

Abstract

Example methods and apparatus for automating startup processes of gas grills are disclosed. An example grill includes a first burner, a second burner, a first burner valve operatively positioned between the first burner and a manifold of the grill, a second burner valve operatively positioned between the second burner and the manifold, a first ignitor operatively positioned relative to the first burner, and a second ignitor operatively positioned relative to the second burner. The example grill further includes a controller operatively coupled to the first burner valve, the second burner valve, the first ignitor, and the second ignitor. In response to determining that a user-based startup request has been received at the grill, the controller is to instruct the first burner valve and the second burner valve to open, and instruct the first ignitor and the second ignitor to ignite corresponding ones of the first burner and the second burner.

IPC Classes  ?

• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues
• F23N 1/00 - Regulating fuel supply
• A47J 37/06 - Roasters; Grills; Sandwich grills

Abstract

Example methods and apparatus for controlling gas flow in grills based on position data detected via rotary encoders. An example grill includes a burner valve, a rotary encoder, and a controller. The burner valve is movable between an open position and a closed position. The rotary encoder includes a rotatable portion and a fixed portion. The control knob is mechanically coupled to the rotatable portion. The rotatable portion is rotatable relative to the fixed portion. The rotary encoder is to detect a rotational position of the control knob. The rotational position of the control knob corresponds to a rotational position of the rotatable portion relative to the fixed portion. The controller is in electrical communication with the rotary encoder. The controller is to determine a target position of the burner valve based on the rotational position of the control knob. The controller is to instruct the burner valve to move to the target position.

IPC Classes  ?

• F24C 3/12 - Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices
• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues
• A23L 5/10 - General methods of cooking foods, e.g. by roasting or frying

Abstract

Example methods and apparatus for automating shutdown processes of gas grills are disclosed. An example grill includes a first burner, a second burner, a first burner valve operatively positioned between the first burner and a manifold of the grill, and a second burner valve operatively positioned between the second burner and the manifold. The example grill further includes a controller operatively coupled to the first burner valve and the second burner valve. In response to determining that a shutdown request has been received at the grill, the controller is to instruct the first burner valve and the second burner valve to close.

IPC Classes  ?

• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues
• A47J 37/06 - Roasters; Grills; Sandwich grills
• F23N 1/00 - Regulating fuel supply

Abstract

Example transversely-loadable rotisserie forks are disclosed. An example rotisserie fork includes a first upper prong and a second upper prong spaced apart from the first upper prong. The example rotisserie fork further includes a first lower prong and a second lower prong spaced apart from the first lower prong. The example rotisserie fork further includes a mounting bracket coupled to the first upper prong, the second upper prong, the first lower prong, and the second lower prong. The mounting bracket is configured to be transversely loadable onto a rotisserie spit.

IPC Classes  ?

• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues
• A47J 37/04 - Roasting apparatus with movably-mounted food supports or with movable heating implements; Spits

Abstract

Example transversely-loadable rotisserie baskets are disclosed. An example rotisserie basket includes a base and a lid coupled to the base. The lid is movable relative to the base between an open position and a closed position. The example rotisserie basket further includes a first mounting bracket coupled to a first side of the base, and a second mounting bracket coupled to a second side of the base located opposite the first side of the base. The first mounting bracket and the second mounting bracket are respectively configured to be transversely loadable onto a rotisserie spit.

IPC Classes  ?

• A47J 37/04 - Roasting apparatus with movably-mounted food supports or with movable heating implements; Spits
• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues

Abstract

Example transversely-loadable rotisserie skewer racks are disclosed. An example rotisserie skewer rack includes a first support plate and a second support plate spaced apart from the first support plate. The example rotisserie skewer rack further includes a plurality of skewers extending between the first support plate and the second support plate. The example rotisserie skewer rack includes a first mounting bracket coupled to the first support plate, and a second mounting bracket coupled to the second support plate. The first mounting bracket and the second mounting bracket are respectively configured to be transversely loadable onto a rotisserie spit.

IPC Classes  ?

• A47J 37/04 - Roasting apparatus with movably-mounted food supports or with movable heating implements; Spits
• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues

Abstract

Provided is an apparatus and method for protecting against unsafe electric current conditions. An example method includes accessing a selected operating mode for a heating element of the electric grill using at least one user input device of the electric grill, the heating element connected to a voltage line and a neutral line; measuring, using a temperature probe, a temperature of the heating element; estimating an ambient temperature at a location within a cook box of the electric grill spaced apart from the heating element, the estimation of the ambient temperature based on the measured temperature of the heating element; and using the estimated ambient temperature to determine when a target temperature corresponding to the selected operating mode is reached.

IPC Classes  ?

• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues
• H05B 1/02 - Automatic switching arrangements specially adapted to heating apparatus
• G01R 31/52 - Testing for short-circuits, leakage current or ground faults
• G01R 15/20 - Adaptations providing voltage or current isolation, e.g. for high-voltage or high-current networks using galvano-magnetic devices, e.g. Hall-effect devices
• H02H 3/10 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements for automatic disconnection directly responsive to an undesired change from normal electric working condition, with or without subsequent reconnection responsive to excess current additionally responsive to some other abnormal electrical conditions
• H02H 1/00 - EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS - Details of emergency protective circuit arrangements
• G01R 19/165 - Indicating that current or voltage is either above or below a predetermined value or within or outside a predetermined range of values

Abstract

Example L-shaped smoker boxes for gas grills are disclosed. An example smoker box includes a base and a lid. The base includes a bottom wall having an L-shaped profile. The lid includes a top wall having an L-shaped profile.

IPC Classes  ?

• A23B 4/052 - Smoke generators
• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues

Abstract

Example dual-burner assemblies for cookboxes of gas grills are disclosed. An example dual-burner assembly includes a first burner tube and a second burner tube. The first burner tube has a first maximum heat output. The second burner tube has a second maximum heat output. The second burner tube is spaced apart from the first burner tube by a distance of no more than 0.750 inches. The second maximum heat output is less than the first maximum heat output.

IPC Classes  ?

• F24C 3/08 - Arrangement or mounting of burners
• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues
• F23D 23/00 - Assemblies of two or more burners
• F24C 3/12 - Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices
• F24C 15/14 - Spillage trays or grooves

Abstract

Pellet grills and associated methods of operation are disclosed. An example pellet grill includes an end cap, a liner coupled to the end cap, and a compartment formed between the end cap and the liner. The example pellet grill further includes a lighting module having a light source. The light source is positioned within the compartment. The light source is configured to project light through an opening formed in the liner and into an interior of a cooking chamber of the pellet grill.

IPC Classes  ?

• F21V 33/00 - Structural combinations of lighting devices with other articles, not otherwise provided for
• F21V 29/15 - Thermal insulation
• F21V 23/04 - Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being switches
• F21S 9/02 - Lighting devices with a built-in power supply; Systems employing lighting devices with a built-in power supply the power supply being a battery or accumulator

Abstract

A remote temperature monitoring system includes a first unit operatively connected to one or more temperature sensors for sensing the temperature of one or more materials or food items being cooked or heated. The first unit transmits the sensed temperature to a second unit that is located remotely from the first unit during heating. The second unit is programmable with the desired temperature and/or heating parameters of the item. By monitoring the temperature status of the item over time, the system determines when the food has reached the desired temperature or degree of cooking, and notifies the user.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08B 21/18 - Status alarms
• A47J 36/00 - Parts, details or accessories of cooking-vessels
• G01K 1/024 - Means for indicating or recording specially adapted for thermometers for remote indication
• H04Q 9/00 - Arrangements in telecontrol or telemetry systems for selectively calling a substation from a main station, in which substation desired apparatus is selected for applying a control signal thereto or for obtaining measured values therefrom
• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues
• G01K 1/14 - Supports; Fastening devices; Arrangements for mounting thermometers in particular locations

Abstract

Slidable waste management systems for cookboxes of grills are disclosed. An example waste management system is configured to be coupled to a cookbox of a grill. The example waste management system includes a first guide rail and a second guide rail that are couplable to the cookbox, The example waste management system further includes a waste tray slidably coupled to the first guide rail and the second guide rail. The waste tray is movable between a closed configuration and an open configuration. The waste tray has an upper opening and a lower opening. The upper opening is configured to receive waste from the cookbox when the waste tray is in the closed configuration. The example waste management system further includes a waste bin coupled to and located below the waste tray. The waste bin is configured to receive the waste from the waste tray via the lower opening.

IPC Classes  ?

• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues

Abstract

Example smoker boxes having slidable lids are disclosed. An example smoker box includes a base and a lid. The base includes a bottom wall, a front wall extending upwardly from the bottom wall, a rear wall extending upwardly from the bottom wall, a right sidewall extending upwardly from the bottom wall, a left sidewall extending upwardly from the bottom wall, a first pin coupled to the right sidewall, and a second pin coupled to the left sidewall. The lid includes is slidably coupled to the base and movable between a closed position and an open position. The lid includes a top wall, a right lip extending downwardly from the top wall, and a left lip extending downwardly from the top wall. The right lip includes a first slot, and the left lip includes a second slot. The first pin extends into and is slidable within the first slot. The second pin extends into and is slidable within the second slot.

IPC Classes  ?

• A23B 4/044 - Smoking; Smoking devices
• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues

Abstract

Example adjustable warming racks for cookboxes of grills are disclosed. An example warming rack is configured to be coupled to a cookbox of a grill. The example warming rack includes a first rack and a second rack. The first rack has a hook configured to couple the warming rack to the cookbox. The second rack is pivotally coupled to the first rack. The second rack is movable relative to the first rack to transition the warming rack between an expanded configuration and a collapsed configuration.

IPC Classes  ?

• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues

Abstract

Example inset frames configured to interchangeably support cooking accessories of various shapes and sizes within a cookbox of a grill are described. An example inset frame is configured to be positioned within a cookbox of a grill. The inset frame comprises a support lattice configured to interchangeably support a rectangular cooking accessory and a circular cooking accessory within the cookbox of the grill.

IPC Classes  ?

• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues

Abstract

Example handle-integrated lighting assemblies including one or more lighting module(s) located substantially within a handle of a lid of a grill are described. An example lighting assembly configured to be coupled to a lid of a grill includes a handle and a lighting module. The handle includes a crossbar and a stem coupled to and oriented at an angle relative to the crossbar. The lighting module includes a light source located within the handle. The light source is configured to project light through the stem in a direction away from the crossbar.

IPC Classes  ?

• F21V 33/00 - Structural combinations of lighting devices with other articles, not otherwise provided for
• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues

Abstract

Burner Tubes for Gas Grills are disclosed. An example burner tube includes a linear burner tube including a venturi member disposed within a hollow interior of the linear burner tube proximate an open front end of the linear burner tube. The venturi member includes a front face having an opening configured to receive a neck of a gas valve, an upper flange extending rearwardly from an upper edge of the front face, the upper flange having a downwardly-extending V-shaped segment configured to constrict a region of the hollow interior, and a lower flange extending rearwardly from a lower edge of the front face, the lower flange having an upwardly-extending V-shaped segment configured to further constrict the region of the hollow interior.

IPC Classes  ?

• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues
• F23D 14/58 - Nozzles characterised by the shape or arrangement of the outlet or outlets from the nozzle, e.g. of annular configuration
• F23D 14/10 - Premix gas burners, i.e. in which gaseous fuel is mixed with combustion air upstream of the combustion zone induction type, e.g. Bunsen burner with elongated tubular burner head
• F23D 14/64 - Mixing devices; Mixing tubes with injectors
• F23D 14/26 - Burners for combustion of a gas, e.g. of a gas stored under pressure as a liquid with provision for a retention flame
• F23D 14/84 - Flame spreading or otherwise shaping
• F23N 1/02 - Regulating fuel supply conjointly with air supply

Abstract

Cases for portable grills are disclosed. An example case includes a base, a first flap extending from the base, a second flap extending from the base, a third flap extending from the base, and a fourth flap extending from the base. The base is centrally located relative to the first, second, third, and fourth flaps. The case is configured to be positioned in an open configuration in which the first flap extends radially away from the base in a first direction, the second flap extends radially away from the base in a second direction that differs from the first direction, the third flap extends radially away from the base in a third direction that differs from the first and second directions, and the fourth flap extends radially away from the base in a fourth direction that differs from the first, second, and third directions.

IPC Classes  ?

• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues

Abstract

Portable cooking stations having interlocking sear grates and griddles are disclosed. An example portable cooking station includes a sear grate and a griddle. The griddle is configured to be removably interlocked to the sear grate in a side-by-side arrangement.

IPC Classes  ?

• A47J 37/06 - Roasters; Grills; Sandwich grills
• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues

Abstract

Mountable trays for temperature probe hubs are disclosed. An example mountable tray includes a central portion, a peripheral portion, and a mounting arm. The central portion includes at least one drainage opening extending through the central portion. The peripheral portion is coupled to and extends upwardly from the central portion. The mounting arm is coupled to and extends upwardly from the peripheral portion. The mounting arm is configured to mount the mountable tray to a flange.

IPC Classes  ?

• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues

Abstract

The present disclosure related to an electric grill's housing, controller, and a mounting bracket which mounts the controller to the housing. The mounting bracket is generally hollow and forms a thermal barrier between the controller and the housing, wherein the thermal barrier protects the controller from heat generated in the housing. As a result, the controller does not require insulation and may include lower temperature rated components. Moreover, the mounting bracket may have metallic tabs which interface with spring elements on the controller, thereby fastening the controller to the bracket. These spring elements and metallic tabs may be in electric communication with the housing, thereby allowing the controller to act as an electric ground with respect to the housing.

IPC Classes  ?

• H05B 3/66 - Supports or mountings for heaters on or in the wall or roof
• A47J 37/04 - Roasting apparatus with movably-mounted food supports or with movable heating implements; Spits
• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues
• F24C 15/10 - Tops, e.g. hot plates; Rings

Abstract

Pellet grills including a control system that implements, manages, and/or controls various ignition-based protocols and/or processes are disclosed. An example pellet grill includes a cooking chamber, a burn pot, an ignitor, and a controller. The ignitor extends into the burn pot and is configured to ignite pellet fuel located within the burn pot. The controller is configured to command the ignitor to activate during a first duration. The controller is further configured to determine, following expiration of the first duration, whether a temperature of the cooking chamber has reached a threshold temperature. The controller is further configured, in response to determining that the temperature has not reached the threshold temperature, to command the ignitor to activate during a second duration.

IPC Classes  ?

• F24B 1/02 - Closed stoves
• F24B 1/00 - Stoves or ranges
• F23Q 7/02 - Incandescent ignition; Ignition using electrically-produced heat, e.g. lighters for cigarettes; Electrically-heated glowing plugs for igniting solid fuel
• G07C 3/10 - Registering or indicating the production of the machine either with or without registering working or idle time using counting means
• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues
• A47J 36/32 - Time-controlled igniting mechanisms or alarm devices
• F24B 13/04 - Arrangements for feeding solid fuel, e.g. hoppers

Abstract

Portable grills are disclosed. An example portable grill movable between an erected configuration and a collapsed configuration includes a frame, a leg unit, and a leg lock assembly. The leg unit is movably coupled to the frame. The leg unit includes a first leg and a second leg spaced apart from the first leg. The leg lock assembly is operatively coupled to the leg unit and located partially within the frame. The leg lock assembly is configured to lock the leg unit in a first position relative to the frame when the portable grill is in the erected configuration, and to unlock the leg unit from the first position to enable movement of the portable grill from the erected configuration into the collapsed configuration.

IPC Classes  ?

• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues
• F24C 15/08 - Foundations or support plates; Legs or pillars; Casings; Wheels
• F23N 1/00 - Regulating fuel supply
• F24C 1/16 - Stoves or ranges in which the fuel or energy supply is not restricted to solid fuel or to a type covered by a single one of groups ; Stoves or ranges in which the type of fuel or energy supply is not specified with special adaptation for travelling, e.g. collapsible

Abstract

Portable grills are disclosed. An example portable grill movable between an erected configuration and a collapsed configuration includes a frame, a cookbox, a lid, and a lid lock assembly. The cookbox is coupled to the frame. The lid is movably coupled to the cookbox. The lid is movable relative to the cookbox between a closed position and an open position. The lid lock assembly is coupled to the frame. The lid lock assembly is configured to enable movement of the lid from the closed position into the open position when the portable grill is in the erected configuration, and to lock the lid in the closed position in response to the portable grill being moved from the erected configuration into the collapsed configuration.

IPC Classes  ?

• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues
• F24C 15/08 - Foundations or support plates; Legs or pillars; Casings; Wheels
• F23N 1/00 - Regulating fuel supply
• F24C 1/16 - Stoves or ranges in which the fuel or energy supply is not restricted to solid fuel or to a type covered by a single one of groups ; Stoves or ranges in which the type of fuel or energy supply is not specified with special adaptation for travelling, e.g. collapsible

Abstract

Portable grills are disclosed. An example portable grill movable between an erected configuration and a collapsed configuration includes a valve and regulator assembly and a tank blocker. The valve and regulator assembly includes a tank connector configured to removably couple a fuel tank to the valve and regulator assembly. The tank blocker is configured to prevent the portable grill from being moved from the erected configuration into the collapsed configuration when the portable grill is in the erected configuration and the fuel tank is coupled to the tank connector.

IPC Classes  ?

• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues
• F23N 1/00 - Regulating fuel supply
• F24C 1/16 - Stoves or ranges in which the fuel or energy supply is not restricted to solid fuel or to a type covered by a single one of groups ; Stoves or ranges in which the type of fuel or energy supply is not specified with special adaptation for travelling, e.g. collapsible
• F24C 15/08 - Foundations or support plates; Legs or pillars; Casings; Wheels

Abstract

Portable grills are disclosed. An example portable grill movable between an erected configuration and a collapsed configuration includes a frame and a leg unit coupled to the frame. The leg unit includes a first leg, a second leg spaced apart from the first leg, and a support bar coupled to and extending between the first and second legs. The support bar further extends at an angle away from the first and second legs. The support bar is configured to contact an underlying surface to support the portable grill when the portable grill is in the collapsed configuration and oriented vertically relative to the underlying surface. The support bar is further configured to provide a handle by which the portable grill can be picked up when the portable grill is in the collapsed configuration and oriented horizontally relative to the underlying surface.

IPC Classes  ?

• F24C 1/16 - Stoves or ranges in which the fuel or energy supply is not restricted to solid fuel or to a type covered by a single one of groups ; Stoves or ranges in which the type of fuel or energy supply is not specified with special adaptation for travelling, e.g. collapsible
• F24C 15/08 - Foundations or support plates; Legs or pillars; Casings; Wheels
• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues

Abstract

Portable grills are disclosed. An example portable grill movable between an erected configuration and a collapsed configuration includes a frame and a leg unit coupled to the frame. The leg unit includes a first leg, a second leg spaced apart from the first leg, and a support bar coupled to and extending between the first and second legs. The support bar further extends at an angle away from the first and second legs. The support bar is configured to contact an underlying surface to support the portable grill when the portable grill is in the collapsed configuration and oriented horizontally relative to the underlying surface. The support bar is further configured to provide a handle by which the portable grill can be hung when the portable grill is in the collapsed configuration and oriented vertically relative to the underlying surface.

IPC Classes  ?

• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues
• F24C 15/08 - Foundations or support plates; Legs or pillars; Casings; Wheels
• F23N 1/00 - Regulating fuel supply
• F24C 1/16 - Stoves or ranges in which the fuel or energy supply is not restricted to solid fuel or to a type covered by a single one of groups ; Stoves or ranges in which the type of fuel or energy supply is not specified with special adaptation for travelling, e.g. collapsible

Abstract

Portable grills are disclosed. An example portable grill includes a frame, a leg unit, and a leg latch assembly. The leg unit is coupled to the frame. The leg latch assembly includes a post rigidly coupled to the leg unit, and a swing plate pivotally coupled to the frame. The swing plate includes an opening to receive the post when the portable grill is in a collapsed configuration. The opening includes a first post-receiving portion having a first diameter, and a second post-receiving portion having a second diameter less than the first diameter. The swing plate is pivotable to selectively locate the post in the first post-receiving portion or the second post-receiving portion. The swing plate is separable from the post when the post is located in the first post-receiving portion, and inseparable from the post when the post is located in the second post-receiving portion. The leg latch assembly latches the leg unit in a fixed position relative to the frame when the post is located in the second post-receiving portion, and unlatches the leg unit from the fixed position when the post is located in the first post-receiving portion.

IPC Classes  ?

• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues
• F24C 15/08 - Foundations or support plates; Legs or pillars; Casings; Wheels
• F23N 1/00 - Regulating fuel supply
• F24C 1/16 - Stoves or ranges in which the fuel or energy supply is not restricted to solid fuel or to a type covered by a single one of groups ; Stoves or ranges in which the type of fuel or energy supply is not specified with special adaptation for travelling, e.g. collapsible

Abstract

Portable grills are disclosed. An example portable grill includes a cookbox, a lid, a cooking grate, and a grate retainer. The lid is movably coupled to the cookbox, and is movable relative to the cookbox between a closed position and an open position. The lid and the cookbox define a cooking chamber when the lid is in the closed position. The cooking grate is located within the cooking chamber and supported by the cookbox. The cooking grate is movable relative to the cookbox when the lid is in the open position. The grate retainer is coupled to the lid, and extends inwardly from an inner surface of the lid. The grate retainer is configured to restrict movement of the cooking grate relative to the cookbox when the lid is in the closed position.

IPC Classes  ?

• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues
• F24C 15/08 - Foundations or support plates; Legs or pillars; Casings; Wheels
• F23N 1/00 - Regulating fuel supply
• F24C 1/16 - Stoves or ranges in which the fuel or energy supply is not restricted to solid fuel or to a type covered by a single one of groups ; Stoves or ranges in which the type of fuel or energy supply is not specified with special adaptation for travelling, e.g. collapsible

Abstract

Portable grills are disclosed. An example portable grill movable between an erected configuration and a collapsed configuration includes a frame and a leg unit coupled to the frame. The leg unit includes a first leg, a second leg spaced apart from the first leg, and a foldable foot pivotally coupled to and extending between the first and second legs. The foldable foot is movable relative to the first and second legs between an unfolded configuration and a folded configuration. The foldable foot contacts an underlying surface to support the portable grill when the foldable foot is unfolded and the portable grill is erected and oriented horizontally relative to the underlying surface. The foldable foot provides a handle by which the portable grill can be picked up when the foldable foot is folded and the portable grill is collapsed and oriented horizontally relative to the underlying surface.

IPC Classes  ?

• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues
• F24C 15/08 - Foundations or support plates; Legs or pillars; Casings; Wheels
• F23N 1/00 - Regulating fuel supply
• F24C 1/16 - Stoves or ranges in which the fuel or energy supply is not restricted to solid fuel or to a type covered by a single one of groups ; Stoves or ranges in which the type of fuel or energy supply is not specified with special adaptation for travelling, e.g. collapsible

Abstract

Methods and apparatus to indicate presence of a flame are disclosed. An example gas grill includes a burner tube having apertures to emit a fuel for combustion, an ignition element to cause ignition of the fuel emitted from the apertures of the burner tube, a flame sensor to detect the presence of a flame associated with the combustion of the fuel emitted from the apertures of the burner tube, and flame sense circuitry including a flame signal accessor to access a flame sense signal from the flame sensor, and a terminal to output an indication of the presence of the flame, the indication of the presence of the flame output without respect to an open or closed state of a lid of the grill.

IPC Classes  ?

• F24C 3/12 - Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices
• F23N 5/24 - Preventing development of abnormal or undesired conditions, i.e. safety arrangements
• A47J 37/07 - Roasting devices for outdoor use; Barbecues
• A47J 36/32 - Time-controlled igniting mechanisms or alarm devices
• F23Q 3/00 - Ignition using electrically-produced sparks
• F23Q 7/10 - Igniters structurally associated with fluid-fuel burners for gaseous fuel, e.g. in welding appliances

Abstract

A temperature monitoring system for monitoring a temperature status of an item from a location different than a location at which the item is located is disclosed. The temperature monitoring system includes a base having a top surface and a bottom surface, and a first unit removably engageable with the top surface of the base in at least a first orientation and a second orientation. The first unit is configured to monitor a measured temperature, to display information regarding the measured temperature, and/or to transmit temperature information to a user device. The temperature monitoring system may also include at least one thermal or temperature probe configured to measure the temperature of the item, including a probe tip, probe wire, and probe plug. The temperature monitoring system may also include one or more probe supports configured to releasably attach to the base and configured to releasably retain a thermal probe thereon.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01K 7/00 - Measuring temperature based on the use of electric or magnetic elements directly sensitive to heat
• G01K 1/024 - Means for indicating or recording specially adapted for thermometers for remote indication
• G01K 13/00 - Thermometers specially adapted for specific purposes
• G01K 1/14 - Supports; Fastening devices; Arrangements for mounting thermometers in particular locations
• G01K 1/143 - Supports; Fastening devices; Arrangements for mounting thermometers in particular locations for measuring surface temperatures
• G01K 1/02 - Means for indicating or recording specially adapted for thermometers