Patent Description:
Grilling and smoking are popular methods of food preparation that have existed for much of human history. The refinement of materials in modern times has allowed for advancement of grilling and smoking technology from fireplaces and open flames to include individual units that can grill and smoke food and may be permanently installed in one location or can be transported for use in various locations and can include enclosed chambers. As such, a wide variety of modern grills and smokers exist, from low-end, cheap versions to top of the line installations costing thousands or tens of thousands of dollars.

Modern grills and smokers, especially high-end versions, are typically constructed of materials that are welded and assembled by human hand and require significant investment of human time, energy and capital to construct. Additionally, these devices often require numerous joining means such as screws, nails, washers, seals and others that can be lost, broken or otherwise malfunction. Modern grills and smokers are also typically difficult to clean and must be washed by hand, again requiring significant time and energy. Additionally, modern grills generally do not have integration with wireless devices, networks or systems such that they provide for interaction, remote monitoring or integration with electronic data.

Thus, needs exist for improved techniques and methods by which to manufacture, grills and smokers. Additionally, improved cleanability, easier manufacturer, intermediary and end user assembly and transportation are valuable. Also, integration with modern electronic devices is desirable.

United States patent application <CIT> discloses a grill wherein a themed coating is applied to at least a portion of an upper portion of the grill unit, wherein the upper potion includes an inner shell to limit the heat to which the outer shell is exposed.

United States patent application <CIT> discloses a portable stove and heater wherein the stove is comprised of at least three concentric walls affixed to a floor with vents placed in each of the walls to permit multiple pathways for transiting air to be heated prior to entering a combustion chamber.

United States patent application <CIT> discloses a firebox for producing heat and smoke and a smoke oven forming a cooking chamber therein. A plurality of vertically spaced shelves are disposed within the chamber. A heat shield is positioned between one of the shelves and another shelf. First and second vertically spaced openings are disposed (above and below the heat shield, respectively) within the cooking chamber in communication with the firebox to conduct heat and smoke into the chamber.

United States Patent Application <CIT> discloses a turbo -charcoal barbecue which is made up of a lid, a detachable side housing unit and a bottom pit. A glass window is located at the front of the lid to allow the user to monitor the food being cooked without having to lift the lid. The turbo-charcoal barbecue is designed with five main features; a detachable turbo unit, an adjustable rotisserie ensemble, a moveable charcoal tray, removable ash trays, and fire screen. The detachable turbo unit is positioned to recirculate hot air from underneath the charcoal tray and redistribute the hot air to the upper and lower areas of the grill. The turbo-charcoal barbecue includes an adjustable rotisserie ensemble. A rectangular shaped fire screen contains small holes spaced evenly apart from each other designed to both block flash flames and allow the heat produced from the ignited briquets to flow through it. The lower chamber of the barbecue pit collects expended ash material and beneath the lower chamber are removable ash trays that collect ashes that are swept down chutes from the lower chamber.

Accordingly there is provided a modular grill and smoker apparatus as detailed in the claims that follow.

The configuration of the devices described herein in detail are only example embodiments and should not be considered limiting. Other systems, devices, methods, features and advantages of the subject matter described herein will be or will become apparent to one with skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, devices, methods, features and advantages be included within this description, be within the scope of the subject matter described herein, and be protected by the accompanying claims. In no way should the features of the example embodiments be construed as limiting the appended claims, absent express recitation of those features in the claims.

The details of the subject matter set forth herein, both as to its structure and operation, may be apparent by study of the accompanying figures, in which like reference numerals refer to like parts. The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the subject matter. Moreover, all illustrations are intended to convey concepts, where relative sizes, shapes and other detailed attributes may be illustrated schematically rather than literally or precisely.

Before the present subject matter is described in detail, it is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the particular embodiments described, as such may, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting, since the scope of the present disclosure will be limited only by the appended claims.

Provided herein are systems, devices, and methods for creating and using modular grills and smokers used to cook food, as well as associated manufacturing and user interfaces for interacting with the same.

In various embodiments described herein and otherwise contemplated, modular grills and smokers can be parametrically designed and modified using computers, for instance through the use of programs such as Solidworks. Parametric design of modular grills and smokers can allow for quick and easy scaling changes of individual components and relative dimensions for all components to be saved in non-transitory computer readable memory. This can allow for customized production and production of unique sizes and provides great flexibility for the manufacturer. Since the relative dimensions of each part and section can be set as parameters, they can be easily exported from a design computer for use in robotic fabrication. Robotic fabrication can improve equipment setup and fabrication time and can provide savings of fifty to eighty percent, when compared to fabrication costs common to traditional manual grill and smoker fabrication processes.

In many embodiments, design and modification of grills and smokers is accomplished by executing computer operations using processors, that are stored in the form of instructions in non-transitory computer readable memory. These allow for manipulation of data and variables via user interfaces and provide for viewing of data on graphical user interfaces. Computing devices including these components and operable to execute these instructions can be user interface devices and are often networked together via public and private networks that include servers and other components and devices. Various forms of many of the computer-based devices and components required to perform these operations are described in more detail herein. Once a desired or acceptable design has been finished or formalized, it can be exported to a networked fabrication computer that can then fabricate components according to the designs via computer connected and controlled fabrication equipment to precisely calculated dimensions.

Robotic fabrication facilities can provide improved accuracy of metal shaping and welding techniques. Examples of known techniques include: arc welding, oxy-fuel gas welding, resistance welding, solid-state welding and others. Examples of arc welding include: atomic hydrogen welding (AHW), bare metal arc welding (BMAW), carbon arc welding (CAW), flux cored arc welding (FCAW, FCAW-S), gas metal arc welding (GMAW), gas tungsten (GTAW), plasma arc welding (PAW), shielded metal arc welding (SMAW), submerged arc welding (SAW), magnetically impelled arc butt welding (MIAB) and others. Examples of oxy-fuel gas welding include: air-acetylene welding (AAW), oxyacetylene welding (OAW), oxygen/propane welding, oxyhydrogen welding (OHW), pressure gas welding (PGW) and others. Examples of resistance welding include: resistance spot welding (RSW), resistance seam welding (RSEW), projection welding (PW), flash welding (FW), upset welding (UW) and others. Examples of solid-state welding include: co-extrusion welding (CEW), cold pressure welding (CW), diffusion welding (DFW), explosion welding (EXW), electromagnetic pulse welding, forge welding (FOW), friction welding (FRW), friction stir welding (FSW), hot pressure welding (HPW), hot isostatic pressure welding (HPW), roll welding (ROW), ultrasonic welding (USW), and others. Some examples of other types of welding include: electron beam welding (EBW), electro-slag welding (ESW), flow welding, induction welding (IW), laser beam welding (LBW), laser-hybrid welding, percussion welding (PEW), thermite welding (TW), electro-gas welding, stud arc welding, Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) and others.

Utilizing these forms of equipment can be beneficial since the grills and smokers described herein are of a modular design they do not need a full scale production facility. Therefore, individual assemblies and sub-assemblies can be sourced from one or more offshore or domestic robotic fabricators, shipped in parts or pieces to reduce costs and an end product can be assembled elsewhere by distributors, retailers and end-users. An additional benefit is that during production, welds can be created more quickly and more accurately than could be accomplished by a human. This improves finished product quality and durability and increases the efficiency in creating such products.

The modular designs described herein provides for simple assembly and disassembly without the need for specialized tools or even traditional tools such as hammers, wrenches, screwdrivers, nails, screws, washers, or others. Hitch-pins and other simple yet durable connections provide quick and easy securing means for assembly and disassembly. As such, cleaning of the modular grill and smoker is vastly improved over current and former grills and smokers. Many components are particularly sized so they can be soaked in standard kitchen and commercial sinks and fit within normal dishwashing machines for added convenience.

<FIG> are front views of example embodiments of modular grill and smoker combination apparatuses 100a-100e, respectively, each with a support rack 104a-104e and mounted on a rail <NUM> and having analogous features of different scaled dimensions. In the example embodiments, different size apparatuses are shown, representing a broad range of scales and sizes for a modular grill and smoker from a modest <NUM> centimeters (<NUM> inches) across the entire apparatus in 100a, to <NUM> centimeters (<NUM> inches) in 100b, to <NUM> centimeters (<NUM> inches) in 100c, to <NUM> centimeters (<NUM> inches) in 100d and <NUM> centimeters (<NUM> inches) across the entire apparatus in 100e. These respectively correspond to a cooking surface area contained within the modular grill and smoker, exclusive of a warming shelf area and can be <NUM> square centimeters (<NUM> square inches) in 100a, <NUM> square centimeters (<NUM> square inches) in 100b, <NUM> square centimeters (<NUM> square inches) in 100c, <NUM> square centimeters (<NUM> square inches) in 100d and <NUM> square centimeters (<NUM> square inches) in 100e. The sizes and dimensions shown in the example embodiments are by no means exhaustive and alternative configurations are also contemplated. A fuel source 102a-102e and support rack 104a-104e shown in the example embodiments is the same size and dimension in each, showing the contrasting sized dimensions of each grill and smoker 100a-100e, respectively. <FIG> shows an example embodiment with an open secondary chamber <NUM> while <FIG> shows an example embodiment with an open primary chamber <NUM>.

<FIG> is a front view depicting an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker <NUM>. In various embodiments, modular grills and smokers, such as <NUM>, can include a sealable primary chamber <NUM>, having a generally cylindrical or semi-cylindrical interior and exterior profile with a primary chamber access door <NUM> that closes the sealable primary chamber <NUM>. When closed, sealable primary chamber <NUM> can have a substantially airtight seal, providing a compartment in which food can be grilled, smoked, or otherwise cooked. This primary chamber <NUM> is also be referred to herein as a cooking chamber. One or more windows <NUM> can include panels that are double glazed, optically transparent, semi-transparent or combinations thereof, that can be windows that are removable and adjustable without the need for any external or additional tools or components in various embodiments and can allow a user to visually monitor the interior of cooking chamber <NUM> while cooking chamber door <NUM> is closed. Various transparent and semi-transparent materials and combinations of materials can be used to create windows <NUM> including glass, plastics, and others and may have one or a variety of colors across the visible light spectrum.

A secondary closable chamber <NUM>, which can be sealable in some embodiments, can also be cylindrical or semi-cylindrical, can have similar radial or other dimensions, when compared to cooking chamber <NUM> and can have a similar secondary chamber access door <NUM> that opens and closes to seal secondary chamber <NUM>. In some embodiments, this can be an airtight seal. Secondary chamber <NUM> can have an equal or shorter cylindrical length, when compared to that of cooking chamber <NUM>. Secondary chamber <NUM> will also be referred to herein as a utility chamber. Handles <NUM> can be formed as built-in recesses, exterior flanges and can have other structures and can be permanently coupled to each of chambers <NUM>, <NUM> in order to open and close chambers <NUM>, <NUM>. Other structures can also be used, as known in the art or later developed, including exterior horizontal, diagonal or vertical bars with or without connecting brackets.

Primary chamber <NUM> and secondary chamber <NUM> can be independently constructed or fabricated and combined or coupled later to form a single modular grill and smoker <NUM> in some embodiments. In other embodiments, these chambers can be constructed or fabricated from a single, large chamber. As would be understood in the art, additional or fewer chambers can be provided and dimensions can be varied in accordance with the embodiments described herein without departing from their scope.

In some embodiments secondary chamber <NUM> can be a utility or control chamber that can be specially designed to be used for warming food, maintaining food temperature with minimal heat loss, storing items, cooking food at different temperatures from primary chamber <NUM> or performing other purposes.

The chambers <NUM>, <NUM> can have one or more external fuel coupling components <NUM> for allowing externally supplied fuel to be fed to appropriate use points or locations in various embodiments. Components <NUM> can be unique to each chamber <NUM>, <NUM> or shared in some embodiments. A non-exhaustive list of external fuel sources <NUM> includes: liquid propane gas (LPG), butane, natural gas (NG), liquid or gaseous biofuels, hydrogen, kerosene and others currently in existence or later developed. In some embodiments no couplings may be provided if internal fuel is the only fuel for use, for instance in embodiments solely for use with combustible solid fuels such as charcoal, wood and others currently in existence or later developed. Many embodiments allow for the use of either or both external and internal fuel sources. Also contemplated are electrical heating sources, such as coils, that may be externally or battery powered.

As shown in the example embodiment, one or more displays can be provided on a user-facing surface of the modular grill and smoker <NUM>. Here, this includes a primary display <NUM> that can be a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), Light Emitting Diode (LED) display, touchscreen display, or others as appropriate and can include electrical coupling to power sources, temperature sensors, timers, lighting, audio speakers, additional displays, user interfaces, processors, non-transitory memory, and others as understood in the art. In some embodiments these displays can be communicatively coupled to one or more external devices, such as smartphones, tablets, wearable smart devices, video game consoles, computers or other devices. These couplings can be wired or wireless and can be accomplished using various communication protocols or standards, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or others.

User interface controls <NUM> can be provided or mounted on various surfaces of modular grill and smoker <NUM>, including: dials, buttons, switches, knobs, touchscreens, combinations thereof and others. As understood in the art, these user interface controls <NUM> allow a user to interface with modular grill and smoker <NUM> in order to control temperatures in chambers <NUM>, <NUM>, timers, clocks, power, lighting, fuel, audio output, and other necessary and optional components.

Other mechanical, electrical and electro-mechanical components and features can be included on appropriate interior and exterior surfaces including support racks, holders, tables, cutting boards, pots, pans, storage compartments, and others as understood in the art without departing from the scope of the embodiments described herein.

Also shown in the example embodiment, is a support rack <NUM> supporting primary and secondary chambers <NUM>, <NUM>, as well as a fuel source <NUM>, which in this case is a LPG tank. In various embodiments, support racks <NUM> can be highly adjustable by users, including pitch, height and balancing adjustments. In some embodiments, these support racks <NUM> can be installed on balconies, fences, walls, boat railings, and many others.

<FIG> is a side view depicting an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker <NUM> with a support rack <NUM> mounted on a rail <NUM>. In the example embodiment a user interface knob <NUM> is shown extending out of a front surface of the modular grill and smoker <NUM>. A secondary chamber door <NUM> is shown as having a quarter circular side profile and is rotatably coupled with secondary chamber <NUM>. As such, secondary chamber door <NUM> can rotate about a centrally located pivot <NUM> to open secondary chamber <NUM>. In other embodiments, chamber doors can be three quadrants of a cylinder, a third of a cylinder, five-eighths of a cylinder or others as appropriate. Although not shown, ridges, tracks and other guiding components can be included in various embodiments in order to maintain door <NUM> in a consistent location.

An external fuel coupling component <NUM> is shown protruding from a rear of the modular grill and smoker <NUM> and extending downward at a right angle to couple with a mated coupling component from an external fuel source <NUM>. Also shown is an exterior wire <NUM> for providing electrical power, in the form of a rotisserie motor power line. In some embodiments this can be provided or routed within the inside the modular grill and smoker device <NUM>. A support rack <NUM> is shown as supporting the external fuel source <NUM> as well as the modular grill and smoker <NUM> that can provide permanent, semi-permanent or removable coupling for its supported components. Support rack <NUM> is discussed in further detail herein with respect to <FIG>. In some embodiments a back-piece <NUM> can include one or more adjustable legs or bars. These legs or bars can include rubber end pieces to protect an installation location from damage. Adjustment can be accomplished using threaded screwing mechanisms, notches, ratcheting mechanisms, or others and can be locked in place in many embodiments.

<FIG> is a rear view depicting an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker <NUM> with a support rack <NUM>. As shown in the example embodiment, an upper air exhaust flue <NUM> can include one or more vents, allowing air to exit the interior of modular grill and smoker <NUM>. A rear air intake vent <NUM> can allow air to enter the interior of modular grill and smoker <NUM>. Venting components and systems will further be described herein, in particular with respect to <FIG>.

<FIG> is a side cross-sectional diagram 300a depicting an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker airflow corridor <NUM>. In the example embodiment a cooking chamber <NUM>, secondary chamber and other chambers (not shown) and one or more airflow corridors <NUM> can be fluidly independent, such that when sealed air, gases, smoke and any particulates contained therein do not flow between the independent chambers. Airflow corridor <NUM> allows heated air within airflow corridor <NUM> to escape through outlet vents <NUM>, <NUM> and cooler air to be drawn into airflow corridor <NUM> through lower openings 304a, 304b, 306a, 306b.

As shown, one or more inner surfaces of an exterior wall <NUM> of airflow corridor <NUM> can have a variety of different radii from a central axis of cooking chamber <NUM>. In some embodiments a single, uniform exterior wall inner surface radius can exist. As shown in the example embodiment a cooking chamber <NUM> can likewise have a non-uniform but generally circular cross sectional shape.

In the example embodiment, airflow corridor <NUM> has a cross sectional shape that is generally circumferentially located about a general cooking chamber <NUM> circumference. As such, the radius of a common wall <NUM> or walls separating cooking chamber <NUM> from airflow corridor <NUM> is generally smaller than the radius of the inner surface of the exterior wall <NUM> or walls of airflow corridor <NUM>. As such, airflow corridor <NUM> can be a circumferential chamber that provides cooling properties in some embodiments. Openings 304a, 304b, 306a, 306b, <NUM> and <NUM> can include one or more of a plurality of flues, ducts, holes, vents or other components that are provided at specific locations in the airflow corridor exterior wall <NUM> to promote and provide airflow through the airflow corridor <NUM>. As a result of this configuration, air can flow within the airflow corridor <NUM>, between the exterior wall <NUM> or walls of the airflow corridor <NUM> and the common wall <NUM> or walls of the cooking chamber <NUM>. The operation and dynamics of this airflow will be discussed in further detail with respect to <FIG>.

<FIG> is a side cross-sectional diagram 300b depicting an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker cooking chamber <NUM> and airflow corridor <NUM> mounted on a support rack <NUM>. In various embodiments that include airflow corridors <NUM>, the Archimedes principle can be used to great effect. As such, airflow corridor <NUM> provides the benefit of keeping the exterior wall <NUM> of the airflow corridor <NUM> cool to a user's touch even when the interior of cooking chamber <NUM> is heated to cooking or smoking temperatures. In operation, when the interior of the cooking chamber <NUM> is heated, for example by lighting a fuel source such as gas at heating location <NUM>, the air inside the chamber <NUM> becomes warm or hot. As the air in the cooking chamber <NUM> becomes warm or hot, some of the heat is transferred to the common walls <NUM> of the cooking chamber <NUM>. Similarly, as the common walls <NUM> of the cooking chamber heat up some of the heat is transferred to the air surrounding the common walls <NUM> and on the interior of the airflow corridor <NUM>. As this heated air in the airflow corridor rises, it can escape out of one or more outlet vents <NUM>, <NUM> of the airflow corridor <NUM>. This creates a pressure differential within the airflow corridor <NUM> which then draws in air from the exterior of the modular grill and smoker through one or more side vents 304a, 306a and lower vents 304b, 306b. When this air is heated by the common walls <NUM>, it also exits the one or more outlet vents <NUM>, <NUM>. As the air in the airflow corridor <NUM> does not remain in the airflow corridor <NUM> for much time, it does not transfer a large amount of heat to the exterior walls <NUM> of the modular grill and smoker, thus maintaining a tolerable temperature of the exterior walls <NUM> of the airflow corridor <NUM>. As such, users are less likely to be injured if they accidentally, inadvertently or otherwise touch the exterior walls <NUM>. In some embodiments, air flow in the airflow corridor <NUM> can be controlled by actuating the one or more outlet vents <NUM>, <NUM> as necessary.

As shown in the example embodiment, additional vents can be provided in the common walls <NUM> to allow airflow within the interior cooking chambers <NUM> including one or more upper cooking chamber vents <NUM> and one or more lower cooking chamber vents <NUM>. While in some embodiments vents may be located uniformly at standard locations in the walls <NUM>, <NUM> of chamber <NUM>, they can be located in any appropriate, desired or convenient locations such that they provide the desired airflow as described herein. The example embodiment in particular shows a front cooling-air exit <NUM> adjacent to a front wall of vent <NUM>, that functions as a chimney and a rear cooling-air exit <NUM> adjacent to a rear wall of vent <NUM> at an upper area of the modular grill and smoker. At a middle to lower area of the modular grill and smoker are provided dual front cooling-air intakes 304a, 304b and dual rear cooling-air intakes 306a, 306b. At the bottom of cooking chamber <NUM>, vent <NUM> has openings above a removable debris pan <NUM>.

In the embodiments shown in <FIG>, active airflow components with appropriate wiring and power, such as fans, can be provided for one or more of vents 304a, 304b, 306a, 306b, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM><NUM> while passive components such as holes, openings, or other venting structures can be provided for airflow corridors <NUM>. In other embodiments one or more of these configurations can be different.

Although not shown in <FIG>, the side walls of the modular grill and smoker can be similarly situated such that the airflow corridor <NUM> creates a fully encompassing hull around the grilling and smoking or other heating chambers, such as chamber <NUM>. As would be understood by those in the art, the grilling and smoking or other heating chambers are necessarily supported and separated from the exterior walls of the airflow corridor creating the hull by internal support structures <NUM> (shown in <FIG>, <FIG>) such as posts, ribs, struts, trusses or other structural supports. It should also be understood that the upper airflow corridor exterior walls <NUM> are similarly supported by structural support means attached to the common walls and they may extend partially or fully circumferentially about the cooking chamber. In many of these embodiments, these internal support structures allow airflow within the airflow corridor <NUM> to occur substantially unimpeded.

In various embodiments airflow corridors <NUM> may not extend the full length of a modular grill and smoker apparatus and as such, may not surround a secondary chamber.

<FIG> is a side cross-sectional diagram 300c depicting an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker primary chamber <NUM> and airflow corridor <NUM>.

<FIG> is a side cross-sectional diagram 300d depicting an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker upper component area cross section. In the example embodiment a vent <NUM> is a chimney flue as shown and has one or more variable-angle chimney flue doors <NUM>. The chimney flue vent <NUM> can allow heated air or smoke to escape the interior of the cooking chamber <NUM> and extends directly to an exterior of the modular grill and smoker. The one or more variable-angle chimney flue doors <NUM> can be a locking compression lever. This lever can be hinged, can extend partially or fully across an upper area of a modular grill and smoker in various embodiments and can be electrically controlled, mechanically controlled, automatic, manual or semi-automatic in various embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, the lever may be automatically opened to a partial or full configuration if an interior sensor, monitored by a processor, indicates that the internal temperature of the modular grill and smoker is higher than desired for a particular selected, preprogrammed recipe.

Also shown is a cooking chamber LED light strip <NUM> that can provide illumination to the interior of the cooking chamber <NUM> and is provided near the chimney flue vent <NUM> and above food supporting surfaces such as grill plates within chamber <NUM>. LED cooking chamber light strip <NUM> may have a transparent or semi-transparent cover such that the light can reach the interior of the cooking chamber <NUM>.

Also shown are transparent or semi-transparent panels for viewing the interior of cooking chamber <NUM>. Here, an outer panel <NUM>, inner panel <NUM> and a panel lock <NUM> are provided. Panels <NUM>, <NUM> can be coupled in place using appropriate mechanisms, such that they do not fall off or otherwise move out of place. In some embodiments, this can be a panel lock <NUM> that is a cam lock, for securing and optionally releasing one or both of outer panel <NUM> and inner panel <NUM>. While cam locks rely on compression to secure panels in place, other mechanisms are also contemplated. In the diagram, there is a space between outer panel <NUM> and inner panel <NUM>. This can allow outer panel <NUM> to remain cool, even while inner panel <NUM> becomes warm. In embodiments with locking mechanisms, outer panel can be removably or permanently coupled with exterior wall <NUM> while inner panel <NUM> is removably or permanently coupled with chamber wall <NUM>. In some embodiments, one or more panels <NUM>, <NUM> can be slid to a side, up or down or otherwise moved such that a door of chamber <NUM> does not need to be opened in order to view its contents in smoky or other less-than optimal viewing conditions, thus better maintaining the temperature and conditions within the chamber.

<FIG> is a side cross-sectional diagram 300e depicting an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker lower component area cross section. In the example embodiment a removable debris pan <NUM> can be flanked by one or more vent openings 324a, 324b and locked in place by a debris pan lock <NUM>. Vent openings 324a, 324b function as cooking chamber air intakes that allow cool air to flow directly from an exterior of the modular grill and smoker into the cooking chamber <NUM>. In some embodiments these are adjustable. Debris pan lock <NUM> can be unlocked in order to allow a debris pan to be removed and its contents disposed of, such as food, ash or other debris that has fallen into it. Debris pans <NUM> can hang from a chamber bottom by one or more couplings such as hooks or others in some embodiments. When released or unlocked, gravity can allow them to fall freely or users can carefully remove them by hand.

<FIG> is a side cross-sectional diagram depicting an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker airflow corridor with internal structures <NUM> shown.

<FIG> is a front cross-sectional diagram depicting an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker 400a with enlarged views of rotary dampened door features 401a, 403a. In the example embodiment, a secondary chamber <NUM> is shown at the left of the figure while a cooking chamber <NUM> is shown at the right. Here, chambers <NUM>, <NUM> have different sizes, both across an interior width or circumference of the chambers and across an interior length of the chambers.

Also shown are ribs that separate an airflow corridor exterior wall 412a, 412b respectively from a secondary chamber wall 414a a cooking chamber wall 414b. Ribs <NUM> can be stainless steel or titanium. In some embodiments a lower coefficient of heat transfer for titanium can prevent exterior walls 412a, 412b of the airflow corridor from becoming excessively heated. A vertical corridor 416b is provided on the exterior side of cooking chamber <NUM> that can be a separate airflow corridor in some embodiments with two or more airflow vents. A vertical corridor 416a is provided on the exterior side of utility chamber <NUM> that can be a separate airflow corridor in some embodiments with two or more airflow vents. Similarly, an airflow corridor 416c can separate utility chamber <NUM> from cooking chamber <NUM>.

Rotary dampers 418a and 418b are respectively shown in the enlargements of rotary dampened door features 401a, 403a and can be provided in these vertical corridors 416a, 416b, helping to prevent them from becoming too hot, where they are maintained at a working and functional temperature.

Each chamber <NUM>, <NUM> has a door that can be moved, to from partially to fully open or closed. These chamber doors are permanently or removably coupled with a rotating feature of rotary dampers 418a, 418b, as they rotate circumferentially about a central axis drawn through the center of the rotary damping mechanisms 418a, 418b. The rotary damping mechanisms 418a, 418b can provide sufficient damping, slowing, or friction such that a coupled door will not "clang" or make other loud or disturbing noises if accidentally or purposefully dropped, released, opened or shut quickly or carelessly. Each of the rotary damping mechanisms 418a, 41B are provided within a rotary damping support structure 420a, 420b respectively, such as a cylindrical support structure with an opening at one side and an anchoring means at the other side. In some embodiments, rotary dampers 418a, 418b can include and contain one or more viscous liquid substances to provide the damping effect.

In other embodiments, rotary damping mechanisms 418a, 418b can be provided within a cylindrical support structure 420a, 420b which is closed on both sides and has a slit or channel in the support structure for the door to travel circumferentially about the central axis of each of the rotary damping support mechanisms 418a, 418b when operated. Cylindrical support structures 420a, 420b can be coupled to the body of the modular grill and smoker in various appropriate locations by appropriate means such as welding or others. In the example embodiment the rotary damping mechanisms 418a, 418b are provided within the airflow corridor. In some embodiments, rotary damping mechanisms 418a, 418b can be coupled to an exterior surface of the modular grill and smoker. In embodiments where a single rotary damping mechanism is coupled with each chamber door, the door can be coupled to a pin, post or other structure with an appropriate receiving mechanism at its side opposite the rotary damping mechanism. Although rotary damping mechanisms 418a, 418b are shown at relatively the same location on either side of the chambers <NUM>, <NUM> in the example embodiment, they can be at different locations relative to each other in different embodiments.

<FIG> is a front cross-sectional diagram depicting an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker 400b with enlarged views of rotary dampened door features 401b, 403b. In the example embodiment, interior details of primary chamber <NUM> are shown in greater detail including racks <NUM>, windows <NUM>, supports <NUM>, and others.

<FIG> is a side view depicting an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker 400c with an enlarged view of rotary dampened door features 403c and lighting mechanism <NUM>.

<FIG> is a cutaway perspective view depicting an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker 400d with a rotary dampened door feature. In the example embodiment the rotary damping mechanism 418d includes a shaft <NUM> that can be coupled with a complementary shaped receiver <NUM> of a door. As such, the door movements can be damped at one or more points in an opening or closing movement while a main body <NUM> of a rotary damper 418d remains stationary. In an example embodiment, movements are damped most robustly near the end of an opening or closing movement.

<FIG> is a front perspective view depicting an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker multi-surface table <NUM>. In the example embodiment a plurality of legs <NUM> are shown that support a first panel <NUM> with a planar upper surface on which a modular grill and smoker can be placed or mounted. Also shown, in some embodiments, holes <NUM>, cutouts, ridges, lips and other structures can be provided in the upper surface that extend partially into or through panel <NUM>, as appropriate, to maintain a position of a modular grill and smoker by permanent, semi-permanent or removable couplings.

It should be understood that multi-surface tables <NUM> and supporting racks (e.g., see supporting rack <NUM> of <FIG>) can be sized based on individual modular grill and smoker sizes. As such, they are highly customizable, in accordance with the unique fabrication techniques described herein.

Also shown is a second panel <NUM> with a planar upper surface, and coupled to the legs for support such that it is substantially parallel to the first support surface. In use, this second surface can provide support for dishes, utensils, or any other objects that a user may wish to place in the space between its upper surface and a substantially planar lower surface of the first panel. Also shown is a third panel <NUM> with a planar upper surface and a cylindrical cutout <NUM> for supporting an external fuel tank.

Similar to the orientation of the first panel <NUM> and second panel <NUM>, the third panel <NUM> can be parallel to the first two panels <NUM>, <NUM>. The distance between the lower surface of the first panel <NUM> and the upper surface of the third panel <NUM> is such that an external fuel tank can be conveniently removed and replaced. The circumference of the cylindrical cutout <NUM> should be such that it is larger than a cylindrical lower extension of an external fuel tank but smaller than a largest circumference of the external fuel tank. As such it can support the external fuel tank above the ground or other support structure on which the multi-surface table <NUM> is placed, i.e. a deck, patio, or others.

Although three panels <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are shown in the example embodiment it should be understood that one or more of a back, side or front panels can also be provided that are substantially perpendicular to the upper planar surface of the first panel <NUM>. In some embodiments, these panels can be doors with hinges or latches that allow them to open and close internal compartments. Holes, gaps, spaces or other cutouts should be provided in any such panels such that the external fuel tank can be coupled with the modular grill or smoker. Additionally, in some embodiments, racks, drawers and other accessory specific components and compartments can be provided to hold towels, utensils and other common pieces of equipment. Although described herein as a multi-surface table, in some embodiments a single surface may be provided.

<FIG> is a front perspective view depicting an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker multi-surface table <NUM> with a modular grill and smoker <NUM> and external fuel source <NUM>. In the example embodiment the modular grill and smoker <NUM> has four support legs <NUM> that are coupled with holes <NUM> (obscured).

In some embodiments, modular grill and smoker <NUM> may be attached or coupled to the table <NUM> on a permanent, semi-permanent or removable basis. In embodiments where modular grill and smoker <NUM> can be removed or decoupled from multi-surface support table <NUM>, it can be transported to other locations for assembly, cleaning, modification or other purposes and goals. Coupling structures (obscured) in the form of external fuel coupling components may be provided with coupling locations for multiple external fuel sources, including external fuel source <NUM> on one side. It is understood in the art that these couplings can route external fuel within the interior of the modular grill and smoker <NUM> through appropriate pipes, hoses, or other sealed compartments to appropriate, safe and desirable locations for providing heat and other desired characteristics. An external power coupling can operably connect internal or external electrical grill components to an external power source such as a standard wall socket, for instance, using a power cord (not shown). In some embodiments, backup or primary battery sources can also be included.

<FIG> is a back view depicting an example embodiment of a paired modular grill and smoker multi-surface table with a modular grill and smoker and external fuel source.

<FIG> is a front perspective view depicting an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker support rack <NUM>. In the example embodiment, the support rack <NUM> can be coupled or mounted to a railing, panel, or other permanent or semi-permanent fixture or structure using one or more adjustable mounting hooks <NUM>, such that it hangs or projects upward and supports a modular grill and smoker above a lower surface such as a ground, patio, floor, deck, or similar.

The support rack <NUM> as shown includes posts or leg locks <NUM> that can couple to complementary mechanisms of the modular grill and smoker. Other couplings are also contemplated. The support rack <NUM> also includes an arm extension <NUM> for supporting an external fuel tank that extends from or couples with a support structure <NUM> and includes an external fuel tank support ring <NUM>. In the example embodiment this arm extension <NUM> projects downward but in other embodiments it may be projected horizontally or in other directions as appropriate. The external fuel tank support ring <NUM> can be referred to as a LPG tank rank, external fuel tank rack or otherwise. Dimensions of the interior of the cylindrical ring <NUM> can be similar to those described previously for supporting an external fuel source with respect to the third panel of <FIG>.

The support rack <NUM> can also include additional planar surfaces for supporting dishes, utensils and other items in some embodiments as well as separate or common enclosures for housing one or both of a modular grill and smoker and external fuel source. While in some embodiments the support rack <NUM> provides a fixed height for a modular grill and smoker, this can be adjusted in other embodiments and changed per user requirements or desires. In some embodiments this can be done by adjusting support structure <NUM> up or down with respect to arms <NUM> before locking into place using an appropriate locking mechanism or pin.

<FIG> is a front perspective view depicting an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker support rack <NUM> with a mounted external fuel source <NUM>. A main body <NUM> of the support rack can be a rectangular bar structure. A rubber or other compression bar <NUM> can be coupled to a side of the main body on a same side that adjustable mounting hooks <NUM> project from, in order to provide a protective surface so as not to damage a supporting structure mounting location, such as a railing. Height adjustment release <NUM> and pitch adjustment release <NUM> can be provided to allow users to adjust the height of the main body <NUM>.

<FIG> is a front perspective view depicting an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker support rack <NUM> with a mounted external fuel source <NUM> and modular grill and smoker <NUM>.

<FIG> is a front cutaway view depicting an example embodiment of an assembled modular grill and smoker <NUM> with individual component details. In the example embodiment, a rotisserie mechanism can include one or more upper gears <NUM>, one or more belts <NUM>, one or more motors <NUM> and one or more complementary lower gears <NUM> to rotate a rotisserie rack <NUM> about its central axis. A grill door damper <NUM> and utility door damper <NUM> can be coupled with the apparatus as described elsewhere herein.

Also shown are an electrical junction and central processing unit (CPU) box <NUM> for housing and protecting electrical equipment used with the modular grill and smoker <NUM>. Secondary chamber <NUM> includes at least one utility shelf <NUM>, utility door rotary damper <NUM>, and fuel line <NUM>. Also shown are debris tray <NUM>, debris tray lock <NUM>, ignition mechanism <NUM>, fuel burner <NUM>.

<FIG> is a front view depicting an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker 700b with a rack with individual component details. In the example embodiment a cooking chamber door of the modular grill and smoker is shown in an open configuration. Also shown are internal components such as ceramic panels <NUM>, grills <NUM> and fuel trays <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>). In some embodiments, ceramic panels can be high-temperature ceramic-infrared panels for use with LPG/NG fuel sources. Alternative solid fuel trays <NUM> can be used for one or both of charcoal, wood or other fuel sources. Cooking grills <NUM>, warming grills <NUM>, and debris trays <NUM> are also shown. Window assemblies can be double glazed viewing glass in some embodiments comprised of dual panels of glass, one interior and one exterior. Also shown are removable chimney flues <NUM> and debris trays <NUM>.

<FIG> is a view depicting an example embodiment of modular grill and smoker individual component details, some of which are also shown in <FIG>. Window panel related components include inner glass <NUM>, spacer <NUM>, outer glass <NUM>, and lock <NUM>.

<FIG> is a view depicting an example embodiment of modular grill and smoker external component details, some of which are also shown in <FIG> as well as a modular grill and smoker front view. Shown in the example embodiment is a window lock <NUM>.

<FIG> is a view depicting an example embodiment of modular grill and smoker internal component details, some of which are also shown in <FIG>. Shown in the example embodiment is an internal burner component for an external fuel source. In the example embodiment this can be a LPG burner, NG burner or combination burner <NUM>.

<FIG> is a chart <NUM> depicting an example embodiment of modular grill and smoker component dimensions for different sized modular grills and smokers. Various component dimensions are described in the table with respect to the size of modular grill and smoker they may be used.

<FIG> is a front view depicting an example embodiment of modular grill and smoker securing pin <NUM>. In the example embodiment, pins with rings, flanged edges, angled lengths, hook and clasp mechanisms are shown. Various others are contemplated as would be understood in the art for use with the modular grills and smokers described herein.

<FIG> is a front view depicting an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker <NUM> with enlarged display <NUM> view. In the example embodiment a dial or knob <NUM> can be used to adjust an internal temperature of the modular grill and smoker <NUM> and a user can monitor the internal temperature by reading a display <NUM> that can be coupled to an internal thermometer and operative to accurately display the temperature. A handle <NUM> is also shown. Various other displays can also be used, as previously described and it should be understood that appropriate power sources such as batteries or electrical wall plugs, internal processors and memory and others can be operatively electrically connected as necessary. Internal wiring harnesses are provided in various embodiments to maintain electrical wires in safe positions and intuitive locations and configurations for easy maintenance.

<FIG> is a front view depicting an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker modular grill and smoker <NUM> with enlarged interior cooking chamber <NUM> view with an open cooking chamber door <NUM>. The interior of the cooking chamber <NUM> is shown as a substantially horizontal cylindrical chamber having an internal radius and flat end walls. Also shown are rack holders <NUM>.

It should be understood that various internal structures can be provided that partition the interior of the interior chamber without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, a lower portion of the chamber can be partitioned into two sides to allow for the user of one fuel source in a first side of the chamber and another fuel source in a second side of the chamber. As such, users may receive the benefit of unique flavor combinations imparted by the differing fuel sources without having the fuel sources combine or interact directly, which could lead to undesirable flavor characteristics. Similarly, the chamber can be divided such that airflow characteristics within the chamber are optimized for different objectives in particular orientations.

It should be understood that although the modular grill and smoker <NUM> shown in the embodiments herein is generally a cylinder with a horizontal length oriented about a central axis, various other configurations and dimensions are contemplated without departing from the principles and objectives described herein. For instance, a vertically oriented modular grill and smoker is contemplated, with a central axis running in a vertical orientation, perpendicular with a ground surface. Different cross sections can be provided in various embodiments including triangular, square, elliptical, rectangular, irregular polygonal, and others. Likewise, the general three-dimensional profile is not limited to having two ends. Three dimensional profiles contemplated for various embodiments include pyramids, boxes and others. Likewise, irregular and non-traditional profiles and orientations are also contemplated, such as helixes and others. A variety of different benefits may be imparted by the various shapes and profiles of the modular grills and smokers contemplated including airflow optimization within the main and secondary chambers, insulation optimization at or near the exterior surfaces of the chambers, optimized and unique flavor profiles and numerous other benefits.

The internal surfaced of chambers can be coated in black, heather, charcoal or other dark colored materials that can provide utility in the form of reduced necessity to clean the interior of unsightly charring as is common on polished metal surfaces inside grills commonly in use today. Interior surface materials can be selected or applied in order to create other beneficial characteristics as well such as improved heat absorption, insulation, or others. In some embodiments, interior surfaces of one or more of the cooking and secondary chambers can be anodized stainless steel. As such, a chemical treatment reacts with the stainless steel and creates a pocked surface. In some embodiments a powder paint can be applied to interior surfaces that can be heat resistant and can be high gloss. This can lead to the benefit of improved cleaning of the associated surfaces. In some embodiments, chamber interiors can be coated in ceramic. In various embodiments the interior treatments of the chambers can be applied robotically in a fabrication plant.

Various internal structures <NUM> can be provided as shown to support racks, food grilling surfaces, heating or warming surfaces, smoking surfaces or others as appropriate and known in the art. The height, location and orientation of these will be apparent through normal experimentation and may be highly customizable. Also provided can be hooks or other supports <NUM> for rotisserie racks or other internal grill components.

<FIG> is a view depicting an example embodiment of modular grill and smoker external fuel tanks <NUM>. In the example embodiment, external fuel tanks <NUM> can include specific modifications or structures to optimize their use with the modular grills and smokers and associated support structures disclosed herein. These can include collars, flanges, grommets, rings, and others.

<FIG> is a user interface display <NUM> depicting an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker recipe selection screen. In the example embodiment, a user interface display <NUM> is shown that allows a user to select a recipe from a database provided on a server that can upload particular recipes to user devices such as mobile smartphones, tablet computers, laptops, or others. Recipes can include specific instructions for cooking particular dishes including preheating, cooking timers, temperatures, alerts and other important information that can be displayed on the user device as well as implemented in the form of instructions, stored in non-transitory computer memory and executable by a computer processor for controlling a device such as a modular grill and smoker with internal memory and automated cooking features. User interface displays can be interacted with via user interfaces such as touchscreens, buttons, and others.

<FIG> is a user interface display depicting an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker temperature display screen <NUM>. In the example embodiment, a current internal chamber temperature <NUM> can be shown as monitored by one or more thermometers located in one or more locations adjacent to or within the chambers of the associated modular grill and smoker. Internal smokiness can also be measured by appropriate sensors at internal locations and airflow within airflow corridors. Exterior surface temperature can also be monitored and displayed. A recipe progress is displayed in the area of the user interface above the temperature display and can show heating curves and characteristics, timing information and other information such as recipe specific information and instructions for a user to follow. Communication between a user device and a modular grill and smoker can be provided by appropriate transmitters and receivers operating using known or future developed protocols such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular and other standards. Different heating profiles <NUM> can be shown as well, such as the oven temperature and upper oven rack temperature profiles here.

<FIG> is a user interface display depicting an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker instructions screen <NUM>. In the example embodiment, instructions can be displayed and manipulated, for instance by scrolling, that provide an overview of the recipe, detailed instructions, other user reviews, troubleshooting tips, frequently asked questions (FAQs) and other pertinent information.

<FIG> is a user interface display depicting an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker recipe instruction view screen <NUM>. Here, a user can view various timers that can correspond to when a user should put specific food items in the associated modular grill and smoker, when to remove specific food items, when to move specific food items between racks or chambers, when to check on food items, alerts, user interaction such as messaging with other users or system operators or employees, and others.

<FIG> is a user interface display depicting an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker recipe completion screen <NUM>. Here, a user can view final preparation instructions, removal instructions, cleaning instructions, reminders, tips or others information.

<FIG> is a flowchart depicting an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker use process <NUM>. In the example embodiment a user can first select a desired, adjustable/tunable automated recipe program previously downloaded from company server to local storage; and prepare food for grilling and/or smoking in step <NUM> while the grill and smoker is heating. Next a user can initiate an automated-recipe sequenced cooking program and make changes if necessary via a computer network; the grill preheats if grill door is open, while preheating does not initiate and the user is pinged to close door before gas is ignited; at a desired temperature, grill pings (locally and remotely) for food placement in step <NUM>. User can then open the grill door and place the food; close the door and indicate completion of food placement, resuming automated-recipe cooking program and monitor as appropriate in step <NUM>. The grill can initiate an automated recipe cooking countdown in step <NUM> (varying temperature during cooking as directed by recipe); the grill can initiate pings (locally and remotely) for food turning/repositioning; and the user can reposition food, and indicate resumption of automated recipe cooking program. At the conclusion of an operation, the program can execute a gas shutoff and ping a user (locally and remotely) for food removal in step <NUM>. A manual/local operation-gas knob can incorporate an ignition trigger and the cooking-chamber can also include LED light strip controls.

In various embodiments, the user devices and modular grill and smoker apparatuses can perform complete logging of all system & user activity, including timestamps, locations, notes, technical issues and other information, allowing a user to perform queries of all historical data.

<FIG> is an example view of a basic network setup <NUM> according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the example embodiment, a server system <NUM>, <NUM> with multiple servers is shown. Each server <NUM>, <NUM> can include applications distributed on one or more physical servers, each server having one or more processors, memory banks, operating systems, input/output interfaces, and network interfaces, all known in the art, and a plurality of end user devices <NUM>, <NUM> coupled to a network <NUM> such as a public network (e.g. the Internet and/or a cellular-based wireless network, or other network) or a private network. User devices <NUM>, <NUM> include for example mobile devices (e.g. phones, tablets, or others) desktop or laptop devices, wearable devices (e.g. watches, bracelets, glasses, etc.), other devices with computing capability and network interfaces and so on. The server system includes for example servers <NUM>, <NUM> operable to interface with websites, webpages, web applications, social media platforms, advertising platforms, and others.

<FIG> is an example view of a network connected server system <NUM> according to an embodiment of the present invention. A server system <NUM> according to an embodiment of the invention can include at least one user device interface <NUM> implemented with technology known in the art for communication with user devices as described elsewhere herein or developed in the future. The server system <NUM> can also include at least one web application server system interface <NUM> for communication with web applications, websites, webpages, websites, social media platforms, and others. The server system <NUM> can further include an application program interface (API) <NUM> that is coupled to at least one database <NUM>, <NUM> and can communicate with interfaces such as the user device interface and web application server system interface, or others. The API <NUM> can instruct the databases <NUM>, <NUM> to store (and retrieve from the databases) information such as user account information, recipe information, associated account information, instructional information, warranty information, communication information or others as appropriate. The databases <NUM>, <NUM> can be implemented with technology known in the art such as relational databases and/or object oriented databases or others.

<FIG> is an example view of a user mobile device <NUM> according to an embodiment of the present invention. In an example embodiment, a user mobile device <NUM> according to an embodiment of the invention can includes a network connected application <NUM> that is installed in, pushed to, or downloaded to the user mobile device. In many embodiments, user mobile devices are touch screen devices. The applications can include recipe information for viewing and downloading on a user device, communicating with other users, saving information, controlling networked grill and smoker devices (remotely or locally), and others.

Mobile applications, mobile devices such as smart phones/tablets, application programming interfaces (APIs), databases, social media platforms including social media profiles or other sharing capabilities, load balancers, web applications, page views, networking devices such as routers, terminals, gateways, network bridges, switches, hubs, repeaters, protocol converters, bridge routers, proxy servers, firewalls, network address translators, multiplexers, network interface controllers, wireless interface controllers, modems, ISDN terminal adapters, line drivers, wireless access points, cables, servers and others equipment and devices as appropriate to implement the method and system is contemplated.

<FIG> is a diagram of an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker device <NUM> electrical system diagram. In the example embodiment a power source <NUM> such as a power cable can be electrically coupled to provide power to the electrical system of the grill and smoker device. A sensor or detector <NUM> can sense or detect temperature within a chamber and this information can be processed using one or more processors <NUM> that can control active airflow devices <NUM> such as heat sources, fans, electrically controlled vents, or other devices to modify the temperature within the chamber. Also provided in some embodiments, can be processor <NUM> controlled lighting <NUM> for illuminating the interior of a chamber. At least one transmitter, receiver or combination thereof <NUM> can be communicatively coupled (wirelessly or wired) with a private or public network in various embodiments for transmitting temperature, timing, alerts and other pertinent information and for receiving recipe heating, timing, lighting and other information. The at least one processor <NUM> can store recipe information in local memory <NUM> for later use such as timing <NUM>, heating <NUM>, rotisserie control <NUM>, lighting and other information, that can each have their own connected system or subsystem. It should be understood that all electrically components are wired so that they are operable for their intended purpose as would be understood by one in the art. Likewise, various component functions can be added, distributed, modified or omitted with additional or fewer components in various embodiments.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional diagram 1900a depicting an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker with closed valve covers <NUM>. As such, in the example embodiment, when a knob <NUM> is turned to a closed position by a user, it closes valve covers <NUM> such that they are no longer able to supply fuel via fuel line <NUM> to part of the modular grill and smoker. In various embodiments, valve covers <NUM> can be for LPG/NG-gas-burner-bifurcation valves that are used to control an amount of fuel provided to a location or area within the modular grill and smoker. This allows users to control disparate cooking-temperature zones within the body of the apparatus. As such, the figures depicted in <FIG> show configurations and components for providing gas or other burner bifurcation control.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional diagram 1900b depicting an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker with open valve covers <NUM>. As such, in the example embodiment, when the knob <NUM> is turned to an open orientation by a user, it opens valve covers <NUM> such that they are able to supply fuel via fuel line <NUM> to part of the modular grill and smoker. Here, the valve covers <NUM> are coupled with a rod <NUM>, that is also coupled to an externally located knob <NUM> for operation. When turned or otherwise operated, knob <NUM> turns rod <NUM> and coupled valve covers <NUM> to open and close a LPG/NG-gas-burner-bifurcation mechanism. As such, fuel such as gas traveling through fuel line <NUM> can be provided to or blocked from portions of fuel line <NUM>. In turn, this allows or prevents flames burning from the fuel to exit fuel holes <NUM> in the particular portions of fuel line <NUM>.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional diagram 1900c depicting an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker, including internal heating components such as valve covers <NUM>, rod 1903and a cross section of fuel line <NUM>. As shown in the example embodiment, the top half of fuel line <NUM> has been removed in the diagram to show valve covers <NUM> in an orientation parallel to an upper and lower surface of fuel line <NUM>, such that valve covers <NUM> are open. When in a closed orientation, valve covers <NUM> are perpendicular to a fuel direction flow within fuel line <NUM>, such that they nearly or fully block a portion of fuel from feeding through a portion of fuel line <NUM>.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional diagram 1900d depicting an example embodiment of a modular grill and smoker with a closed valve covers <NUM> enlargement on the left and an open valve covers <NUM> enlargement on the right. Here, demonstrating closed valve covers <NUM> in the left enlargement, no flames <NUM> are shown as being emitted from fuel holes <NUM> past the location of valve covers <NUM> in the closed position. This differs from the open valve covers <NUM> shown in the right enlargement, where flames <NUM> are shown as being emitted along the length of fuel line <NUM>.

Various individual materials and combinations thereof are contemplated for fabricating the individual components and structures described herein. In many embodiments marine, stainless and titanium are contemplated. Future developed materials are also contemplated, as appropriate to achieve the objectives described herein. Some particular examples of materials that can be used to create components, portions, and items for modular grills and smokers, supporting racks, and supporting tables include: <NUM>, <NUM>, 316F, 316N, 316TI stainless steel and titanium, and various other corrosion resistant alloys.

Mounting and placement varies widely in various example embodiments of modular grills and smokers, including and not limited to: balcony railings, walled balconies, tabletops, marine rails or walls (e.g. as may be found on a boat) and numerous others.

As used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

The publications discussed herein are provided solely for their disclosure prior to the filing date of the present application. Nothing herein is to be construed as an admission that the present disclosure is not entitled to antedate such publication by virtue of prior disclosure. Further, the dates of publication provided may be different from the actual publication dates which may need to be independently confirmed.

It should be noted that all features, elements, components, functions, and steps described with respect to any embodiment provided herein are intended to be freely combinable and substitutable with those from any other embodiment. If a certain feature, element, component, function, or step is described with respect to only one embodiment, then it should be understood that that feature, element, component, function, or step can be used with every other embodiment described herein unless explicitly stated otherwise. This paragraph therefore serves as antecedent basis and written support for the introduction of claims, at any time, that combine features, elements, components, functions, and steps from different embodiments, or that substitute features, elements, components, functions, and steps from one embodiment with those of another, even if the following description does not explicitly state, in a particular instance, that such combinations or substitutions are possible. It is explicitly acknowledged that express recitation of every possible combination and substitution is overly burdensome, especially given that the permissibility of each and every such combination and substitution will be readily recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art.

Claim 1:
A modular grill and smoker apparatus having a heating source location (<NUM>), a first chamber (<NUM>) defined by at least one first chamber wall (<NUM>) and an airflow corridor (<NUM>) defined by at least one exterior wall (<NUM>) and coupled with the first chamber (<NUM>), the apparatus comprising:
a lower side inlet vent (304a, 306a) coupled with the airflow corridor (<NUM>);
an upper outlet vent (<NUM>, <NUM>) coupled with the airflow corridor (<NUM>), wherein, during operation of the apparatus, the first chamber is operable to cook food by retaining heat generated in the heating source location (<NUM>) and wherein,
during operation of the apparatus, the airflow corridor (<NUM>) is defined such that air located exterior to the airflow corridor (<NUM>) is drawn into the apparatus via the lower side inlet vent (304a, 306a) and air is emitted from the apparatus via the upper outlet vent (<NUM>, <NUM>);
a first transparent or semi-transparent panel (<NUM>) releasably coupled to the at least one first chamber wall (<NUM>); and
a second transparent or semi-transparent panel (<NUM>) releasably coupled to the at least one second chamber wall (<NUM>).