1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to the field of heat barriers or shields for the wall behind free standing heating appliances as well as the floor upon which such heating appliances may restingly be supported.
2. Description of the Prior Art
It is well-known that energy has been in an abundant supply in this country for the past several decades. Accordingly, during this time, conservation of energy, at least in most modern day residential structures, has been of little or no interest. However, the recent spiraling cost of fuel and the recognized necessities for conserving energy are bringing about changes in the manner in which many homes are heated today. Among these changes is the reintroduction of the old fashioned potbellied stove concept. Of course, many modern modifications to the old type stove have been made, but the presence of the free standing heating appliance or space heater, usually using wood, coal or other materials as a source of fuel, is becoming more and more common throughout the country.
It is well-known that these type heating appliances develop a tremendous amount of heat usually necessitating that the wall adjacent thereto be protected in some form or other and that the floor also be protected from this heat. Therefore, there exists a need for a thremoshield which is, of course, noncombustible. Moreover, the thermoshield should contain no asbestos.
The concept of providing a thermoshield for this purpose was first disclosed many years ago. In fact, applicant is aware of the following U.S. Pat. Nos. pertaining to various shields of this nature: 485,363 granted to Adrianson in 1892; and 1,764,595 granted to Anderson in 1930. Other patents pertaining to similar structure of this nature, as known by the applicant, consist of: U.S. Pat. No. 801,690 granted to Ralls in 1905; U.S. Pat. No. 874,296 granted to Brown in 1907; U.S. Pat. No. 1,970,504 granted to Nordan in 1934; U.S. Pat. No. 2,482,376 granted to Serkland in 1949; U.S. Pat. No. 2,629,370 granted to Janski in 1953; and U.S. Pat. No. 4,148,302 granted to Patterson in 1979. It is significant to note that none of the above mentioned patents suggests or discloses applicant's device.