Thermally Responsive Patents (Class 219/494)
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Patent number: 8247745Abstract: The temperature of shelves used in a food holding cabinet are measured using a transistor. The voltage across a PN junction being known to be temperature dependent, the shelf temperature can be inferred from a calculated temperature of a PN junction of a transistor thermally coupled to a heated or refrigerated shelf. No calibration of the measurement device is required since the PN junction voltage, current and temperature relationship is well known.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2010Date of Patent: August 21, 2012Assignee: Prince Castle, LLC.Inventors: Terry Tae-Il Chung, Jeff Schroeder, Kerry Berland, Douglas Reinking
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Publication number: 20120204374Abstract: Apparatus for providing a heated cleaning fluid to a vehicle surface having an inlet port for receiving an amount of fluid; a housing bounding a reservoir in fluid communication with the inlet port; and an outlet port in fluid communication with the reservoir for dispensing an amount of heated fluid. A heater element heats fluid that passes from the inlet to the outlet port through the reservoir. A heat exchanger in thermal contact with the heater element for conveying heat to the fluid within the reservoir has a strut that divides fluid entering the housing through the inlet port into two flow paths and elongated fins that extend outwardly from the strut at transverse angles that bound fluid flow channels for fluid moving through said reservoir. A control circuit energizes the heater element with a voltage to heat the heating element.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 8, 2012Publication date: August 16, 2012Applicant: Nartron CorporationInventors: David Shank, John Washeleski, Peter Strom
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Patent number: 8244150Abstract: A fixing apparatus allows harmonic noise and flicker noise caused by alternating current to be reduced. To accomplish this, the fixing apparatus has a power supply unit that supplies AC power from a commercial power supply to a heater, a temperature detection element that detects the temperature of the heater, a setting unit that sets a duty ratio for providing power to the heater such that the temperature detected by the temperature detection element maintains a target temperature, and a control unit that controls the power supply unit such that an average power duty ratio of a single cycle equals the power duty ratio based on the detected temperature, where a single cycle is three or more full waves of the commercial power supply, there being three or more power duty ratios per one half wave of the commercial power supply in a single cycle.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2010Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Assignee: Canon Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Hiromitsu Kumada, Teruhiko Namiki, Atsunobu Mori
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Patent number: 8242418Abstract: A golf ball bag includes a main housing for receiving one or more golf balls in the receiving cavity, and a temperature controlling device. The temperature controlling device includes a heating plate disposed within the receiving cavity to substantially align with the hitting surface of the golf balls, and a power source supported by the main housing to electrically connect with the heating plate. When the power source is activated, the heating plate is arranged to generate heat and to transfer to the hitting surfaces of the golf balls so as to heat up and maintain the hitting surfaces of the golf balls at an elevated temperature for achieving an optimal performance.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2008Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Inventor: KuangHung Kuo
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Patent number: 8242417Abstract: In the present invention, temperature drop amounts of heating plate regions when the substrate is mounted on a heating plate are detected to detect a warped state of the substrate. From the temperature drop amounts of the heating plate regions, correction values for set temperatures of the heating plate regions are calculated. The calculation of the correction values for the set temperatures of the heating plate regions is performed by estimating steady temperatures within the substrate to be heat-processed on the heating plate from the temperature drop amounts of the heating plate regions using a correlation obtained in advance. From the estimated steady temperatures within the substrate and the temperature drop amounts of the heating regions, the correction values for the set temperatures of the heating plate regions are calculated. Based on the correction values for the set temperatures, the set temperatures of the heating plate regions are changed.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2007Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Assignee: Tokyo Electron LimitedInventors: Masahide Tadokoro, Ryoichi Uemura, Mitsuteru Yano, Shinichi Shinozuka
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Patent number: 8242431Abstract: An automated de-icing system for a low power lighting device having a light emitting face. The system includes one or more detectors for detecting conditions under which ice, frost or snow are likely to occur on the light emitting face. The system further includes a heat transfer system for transferring heat to the light emitting face and a controller for receiving data from the detector(s) and determining a likelihood of ice, frost or snow forming on the light emitting face. The controller engages the heat transfer system if the likelihood of ice, frost or snow forming on the light emitting face exceeds a threshold.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2009Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Assignee: GE Lighting Solutions, LLCInventors: Eden Dubuc, Dan Mihai, Christian Auger
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Publication number: 20120203098Abstract: An ultrasound power supply (100) adapted for supplying electrical power for driving an ultrasound transducer (202, 702) in contact with a subject (208), wherein the ultrasound power supply comprises:—a communications interface (102) adapted for receiving a first temperature measurement of a first volume (211, 318) of the subject and a second temperature measurement of a second volume (214, 320) of the subject;—a controller (108) adapted for modulating the output of electrical power for driving the ultrasound transducer such that via ultrasonic heating by the ultrasound transducer: a. the first temperature measurement is maintained above a first predetermined threshold, b. the first temperature measurement is maintained below a second predetermined threshold, and c. the second temperature measurement is maintained below a third predetermined threshold; and wherein the first predetermined threshold is above the third predetermined threshold.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 24, 2010Publication date: August 9, 2012Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.Inventors: Balasundara Iyyavu Raju, Shiwei Zhou, Shunmugavelu Sokka
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Patent number: 8237094Abstract: A pulse modulating heating system provides connection to a step heating system having a main heating controller configured for connection to a heat sensor and step heating relays connected to respective step heating element and for activating, during a heating cycle, a required quantity of mechanical relays and step heating elements to generate a required amount of heat. The pulse modulating heating system has inputs, one for each step heating relay, connectable to the main heating controller for detecting the relays activated during the cycle, i.e. the required quantity of relays. The pulse modulating system, based on the required quantity of step relays detected, activates a pulse heating element for a quantity of pulses relative to a maximum quantity of pulses for the cycle that is proportional to the required quantity of step relays relative the total number of step heating relays to generate the required amount of heat.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2009Date of Patent: August 7, 2012Inventor: Cherif Menassa
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Publication number: 20120193338Abstract: An electrical apparatus for removing ice and snow from the exterior top surface of the roof of a vehicle comprises at least one electrical heating element disposed against, and in direct contact with, the interior bottom surface of the roof. The heating element may be installed by the vehicle manufacturer or may be retrofit, and in the case of an automobile having a roof liner, the heating element is disposed below and in contact with the roof, but above the liner. Current to the heating element may be controlled by the vehicle's rear window defogger switch, through a relay.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 27, 2012Publication date: August 2, 2012Inventors: Nancy A. Sullivan, Nicholas Minicucci, JR., Frank Holtham, JR., Donald R. Phillips
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Patent number: 8217322Abstract: The present invention provides a thermostatic biasing controller for use with an integrated circuit. In one embodiment, the thermostatic biasing controller includes a temperature sensing unit configured to determine an operating temperature of the integrated circuit. Additionally, the thermostatic biasing controller also includes a voltage controlling unit coupled to the temperature sensing unit and configured to provide a back-bias voltage corresponding to the operating temperature based on reducing a quiescent current of the integrated circuit.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2010Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Assignee: Texas Instruments IncorporatedInventors: Theodore W. Houston, Andrew Marshall
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Patent number: 8217321Abstract: According to the invention, an improved analysis method for temperature monitoring of a hotplate (11) as a cooker with a temperature sensor (S) may be achieved by means of differentiating once over time and inverting the electronically interrogated temperature signal (T). The result of the inversion is raised to the power of ? to give an output value (A). This output value is used in further processing wherein, in the second processing, the output value is compared with stored values for an output value for defined events. The recording of the output value (A) occurs for a maximum time of up to 300 seconds after starting a cooking process, advantageously 60 to 120 seconds, and then said recording and analysis is terminated.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 2009Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Assignee: E.G.O. Elektro-Geraetebau GmbHInventors: Wolfgang Thimm, Wolfgang Wittenhagen
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Publication number: 20120168418Abstract: Provided is a heat control device of a heat generating glass, which supplies a sine wave signal for controlling temperature of the heat generating glass according to a size of the heat generating glass, so that the sine wave signal is input at a point of time when the current of the sine wave signal is zero and also the supply of the sine wave signal is stopped at the point of time when the current of the sine wave signal is zero.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 16, 2010Publication date: July 5, 2012Inventors: Dong Il Lee, Beom Goo Son, Il Joon Bae
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Publication number: 20120168417Abstract: A method for entering an operation mode in a low-temperature environment is applicable in a situation that plural electronic devices in an electronic apparatus are not activated. Through performing the method, the electronic apparatus obtains a temperature of each electronic device after receiving a request of a user. Then the electronic apparatus determines whether the temperatures of all the electronic devices reach a threshold value. If the temperatures of at least two electronic devices do not reach the threshold value, the electronic apparatus generates a plurality of corresponding enable signals for the electronic devices having the temperatures lower than the threshold value. The waveforms of the enable signals vary alternately. The electronic apparatus transfers the enable signals to a plurality of corresponding heaters. Being activated by the received enable signal, each of the heaters heats the corresponding electronic device.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 4, 2011Publication date: July 5, 2012Applicant: GETAC TECHNOLOGY CORPORATIONInventor: Chia-Chang Chiu
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Patent number: 8212184Abstract: Operation of complex integrated circuits at low temperatures may be enhanced by providing active heating elements within the integrated circuit so as to raise the temperature of at least critical circuit portions at respective operational phases, such as upon power-up. Consequently, enhanced cold temperature performance may be obtained on the basis of existing process elements in order to provide design stability without requiring extensive circuit simulation or redesign of well-established circuit architectures.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2009Date of Patent: July 3, 2012Assignee: GlobalFoundries, Inc.Inventors: Anthony Mowry, Casey Scott, Maciej Wiatr, Ralf Richter
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Patent number: 8212189Abstract: A temperature control interface for a stove top is provided. The temperature control interface includes a numerical temperature setting to which a temperature of an object heated on the stovetop will be regulated. A method of cooking on a stovetop is provided in which a recipe includes a numerical temperature to which a cookware object should be regulated during cooking.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2006Date of Patent: July 3, 2012Inventor: Mamoru Imura
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Publication number: 20120163781Abstract: A fluid heater is disclosed and which has a heater, pump, and a plurality of temperature sensors which are electrically coupled with first and second temperature controlled relays, and wherein the fluid heater is operable to maintain a source of fluid used by an object of interest within a predetermined temperature range and further, is operable under given temperature conditions to discontinue operation so as to protect the object of interest and the heater from becoming damaged through overheating of the fluid which is utilized by same.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 22, 2010Publication date: June 28, 2012Inventors: David R. Sedlacek, Michael T. Abbott, Christopher M. McFarland
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Patent number: 8207476Abstract: A substrate holder for supporting a substrate in a processing system includes a temperature controlled support base having a first temperature, and a substrate support opposing the temperature controlled support base and configured to support the substrate. Also included is one or more heating elements coupled to the substrate support and configured to heat the substrate support to a second temperature above the first temperature, and a thermal insulator disposed between the temperature controlled support base and the substrate support. The thermal insulator includes a non-uniform spatial variation of the heat transfer coefficient (W/m2-K) through the thermal insulator between the temperature controlled support base and the substrate support.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2009Date of Patent: June 26, 2012Assignee: Tokyo Electron LimitedInventors: Yuji Tsukamoto, Eric J. Strang
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Patent number: 8207477Abstract: A method of operating a household oven to cook vegetables using steam during a cooking cycle.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2007Date of Patent: June 26, 2012Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: Karen M. Embury, Joel M. Sells, Jason R. Savage
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Publication number: 20120159200Abstract: A method and apparatus for thermal management of components and functional subsystems of a handheld device, including for a peripheral device electrically coupled to thereto. A power source provides power to a plurality of functional subsystems of the handheld device and optionally the peripheral device. The components and functional subsystems comprise predetermined thermal signatures.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2010Publication date: June 21, 2012Inventor: David Neil Ardron
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Patent number: 8204633Abstract: A system for shifting energy demand from on-peak time windows to off-peak time windows by using hot water heater load shifting, while providing the end user with the level of service (i.e., availability of hot water) according to the user's customary use described by service quality criteria. The shift is accomplished by a controller located at the end user establishment and in communication with a central control server. The controller monitors local water heater upper and/or lower temperature and controls upper and/or lower water heater heating elements in accordance with a demand shift process commanded by the central control server. The controller may determine usage and remaining capacity for reporting back to the central control server. A volumetric capacity and usage determination is disclosed. The control server may select water heaters according to use patterns and/or measured capacity.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2009Date of Patent: June 19, 2012Assignee: Carina Technology, Inc.Inventors: Benjamin F. Harbin, III, Cecil Ray Holland, Jr., Robert J. Toth, Adrian O'Neil, Michael Scott Sansom, R. Michael Browder, Brook Marin
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Patent number: 8203105Abstract: Embodiments involve a food warmer that uses a nano thickness heating material as the heating element. The heating element has a fast response and is energy efficient. The temperature of the food warmer can be precisely controlled. The food warmer may be used to heat cold food to a desired temperature, maintain a temperature of already heated food, and/or cook uncooked food.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2008Date of Patent: June 19, 2012Assignee: Advanced Materials Enterprises Company LimitedInventors: Geng Li, Joey Cho Yee Chow, Chih Lin I, Edward S. Yang
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Patent number: 8193474Abstract: Smart oven allows contactless detection of surface temperature of an item being heated. The temperature of the heated object can be maintained at the specified temperature for a specified time. The program for cooking can be read automatically from a package from the food, e.g, from a bar code on the package. When the preheating or cooking is finished, a text message can be sent to a user.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2008Date of Patent: June 5, 2012Assignee: Harris Technology, LLCInventor: Scott C. Harris
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Patent number: 8193475Abstract: A heating apparatus includes a heating element adapted to be disposed on a substrate. The heating element includes electrodes and a multi-layer conductive coating of nano-thickness disposed between the substrate and electrodes. The multi-layer conductive coating has a structure and composition which stabilize performance of the heating element at high temperatures. The multi-layer conductive coating may be produced by spray pyrolysis.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2008Date of Patent: June 5, 2012Assignee: Advanced Materials Enterprises Company LimitedInventors: Wing Yiu Yeung, Keith Mario Torpy
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Publication number: 20120125912Abstract: A temperature controlled/limiting heating element for an electrically powered cooking appliance, having: a plate with an upper contact heating surface; a pair of heating element terminals adapted for removably engaging electrical power supply terminals of the electrically powered cooking appliance; a plurality of resistive heating wires, in thermal engagement with a lower surface of the top plate, comprising: a non-cycling resistive heating wire connected in series to the heating element terminals; and a cycling resistive heating wire connected in series to the heating element terminals via a thermostat switch in thermal engagement with a lower surface of the top plate, wherein the thermostat switch is normally closed when exposed to a sensed temperature below a set temperature and the thermostat switch opens when the sensed temperature is equal to or exceeds the set temperature.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 24, 2010Publication date: May 24, 2012Applicant: PIONEERING TECHNOLOGY CORP.Inventors: Kevin CALLAHAN, Reza SHAH, Peter M. Callahan, Yibing Hu
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Patent number: 8183504Abstract: A surface-mountable electrical circuit protection device includes layers defining a first PPTC resistive element, a second PPTC resistive element, and at least one heat-generating electrical component such as a planar zener diode chip positioned between, and in thermal contact with, the first and second PPTC elements, such that an electrical current above a threshold level passing through the component causes the component to heat, the heat being transferred to the PPTC resistive elements and tripping at least one, and preferably both of the first or second PPTC elements to a high resistance state. A series of edge-formed terminal electrodes enable surface-mount connection of the first and second PPTC elements and the electrical component to an electrical circuit substrate, such as a printed circuit board. A method for making the device is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2006Date of Patent: May 22, 2012Assignee: Tyco Electronics CorporationInventors: Wayne Montoya, Luis A. Navarro, Cecilia A. Walsh, Adrian P. Mikolajczak
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Patent number: 8177936Abstract: Evaporation of calciferous water is performed by an evaporator using electrical heating. An injection nozzle is connected to a spray hose arranged in an upper third of the evaporator, immediately above a thermostat that is disposed on the bottom side of the evaporator. A distance between the injection nozzle and the thermostat is less than 15 mm. A steam hose is connected to the evaporator via a steam connector. The steam connector has an inside diameter of at least 5 mm. The steam hose leads to a collector situated at an angle of inclination of 5° to 10°.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2009Date of Patent: May 15, 2012Inventor: Dietmar Berghaenel
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Publication number: 20120107486Abstract: The present invention provides a sealant coating device having a sealant receiving chamber and a nozzle formed on a lower portion of the sealant receiving chamber. The sealant coating device further has a heating device, and the heating device is installed around the sealant receiving chamber for heating a sealant material filled in the sealant receiving chamber. The present invention further provides a dispensing method of the sealant coating device, which has the following steps of: obtaining time during the sealant material stays in the sealant receiving chamber; calculating a target temperature of the sealant material according to the obtained time and a desired sealant viscosity value; heating the sealant material to the target temperature. The advantages of the present invention are to use the heating device to lower the sealant viscosity based on the characteristic of the sealant viscosity varied with the temperature.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 5, 2010Publication date: May 3, 2012Applicant: SHENZHEN CHINA STAR OPTOELECTRONICS TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.Inventors: Chengming He, Chien-Pang Lee, Yu-wu Huang
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Publication number: 20120103969Abstract: A warming apparatus for warming a container having outer walls, the apparatus including a warmer body, at least one container holder, open at both ends, defined in the body, the container holder including holder walls adapted and configured to cradle a portion of the outer walls of a container for releasably holding that portion of the outer walls, and at least one heating element disposed in the warmer body adjacent the container holder.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 6, 2010Publication date: May 3, 2012Inventor: Igal Sharon
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Patent number: 8168924Abstract: The invention provides an overheat protection control component for a liquid heating vessel which includes a control body (1); a single-integrated dual-actuation thermally sensitive bimetallic actuator (2) is provided on the upper face of the control body (1), wherein the single-integrated dual-actuation thermally sensitive bimetallic actuator (2) is two integrated and relatively independent actuating units which are formed on a piece of bimetallic strip, and the outer kick limb (3) of either said actuating unit will produce an actuating movement downwards when an overheat state occurs; two groups of switch contacts (6) are also provided on the control body (1), wherein either group of switch contacts (6) cooperate with the outer kick limb (3) of a corresponding actuating unit, and the outer kick limb (3), when producing a downward actuating movement, will open a corresponding group of switch contacts (6) and cut off the power supply of the heater for the liquid heating vessel.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2008Date of Patent: May 1, 2012Assignee: Zhejiang Jiatai Electrical Appliance Co., Ltd.Inventors: Qiang Yang, Hesheng Zheng, Yu Yan
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Publication number: 20120097043Abstract: A pump for a beverage preparation machine which includes a heat-radiating electric arrangement; and a thermo-fuse connected to the electric arrangement via an electric connection. The thermo-fuse is connectable to a power source for powering the heat-radiating electric arrangement via the thermo-fuse. The thermo-fuse is in thermal communication with the heat-radiating electric arrangement so as to disconnect the electric arrangement from the power source when the thermo-fuse reaches a predetermined maximum temperature in reaction to an excessive heat radiation from the electric arrangement. The thermo-fuse and the heat-radiating electric arrangement are so configured that heat radiating from the electric arrangement to the thermo-fuse is predominantly conducted along the electric connection from the electric arrangement to the thermo-fuse.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 21, 2010Publication date: April 26, 2012Inventor: Renzo Moser
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Patent number: 8165725Abstract: A kind of temperature controlling device of heating element and method thereof detect the actual temperature of heating body of the heating element, and calculate the descending gradient and frequency of temperature based on the detected actual temperature. The norm signal is formed based on the actual temperature, descending gradient and frequency of the temperature to control the switch power as to achieve the split second control for the electric power of the heating element.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2006Date of Patent: April 24, 2012Assignee: L Lab CorporationInventor: Xiaogang Liu
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Patent number: 8164031Abstract: An electric trace tube bundle characterized by an internal branched circuit or circuits wherein power to the branched circuit or circuits is supplied via leads contained within a tubular jacket surrounding an insulation layer and an inner core containing one or more process tubes and the heater circuits. Such an arrangement allows the power connection to the heater circuits to be made at a proximal end of the bundle, thereby eliminating the need to cut through the jacket to make branched circuit power connections at a location remote from the proximal end of the bundle.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2007Date of Patent: April 24, 2012Assignee: Parker-Hannifin CorporationInventors: Stephen J. Francis, Lawrence K. Kunkel, Dale J. Zelesnik
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Publication number: 20120085748Abstract: An integrated circuit is provided having an active circuit. A heating element is adjacent to the active circuit and configured to heat the active circuit. A temperature sensor is also adjacent to the active circuit and configured to measure a temperature of the active circuit. A temperature controller is coupled to the active circuit and configured to receive a temperature signal from the temperature sensor. The temperature controller operates the heating element to heat the active circuit to maintain the temperature of the active circuit in a selected temperature range.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 11, 2010Publication date: April 12, 2012Applicants: STMICROELECTRONICS ASIA PACIFIC PTE. LTD., STMICROELECTRONICS, INC.Inventors: Olivier Le Neel, Fuchao Wang, Ravi Shankar
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Publication number: 20120082180Abstract: Tools and methods for creating isolated or localized temperature changes on components in an electric circuit. By isolating temperature changes to individual components or small sets of components, the tools and methods allow greater control over the analysis of interactions within a board. This may allow clearer understanding of the effects of temperature on circuit component behavior. The tools and analysis advances analysis such as failure analysis and design testing.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 4, 2010Publication date: April 5, 2012Inventors: Jason J. Edwardson, Timothy A. Fonte, Eric F. King, Ross G. Baker, JR., Toby Daniel Awender
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Patent number: 8148669Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and method for effectuating temperature control in roller grill assembly. Some embodiments provide a roller grill assembly which provides enhanced measurement by utilizing temperature probes located in convective air streams generated in the roller tube. Certain embodiments also provide an improved method for maintaining of a food product temperature by utilizing an intermediate holding mode. Finally, certain embodiments provide improved current control by limiting the number of heating circuits of a food heater that may be simultaneously enabled such that the current draw does not exceed a maximum current draw.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2007Date of Patent: April 3, 2012Assignee: APW Wyott CorporationInventors: Roger A. Schwierking, Diosdado G. Pangan, Kenneth P. Gross
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Publication number: 20120076905Abstract: The present invention provides a method for effectuating temperature control in roller grill assembly. Some embodiments provide a roller grill assembly which provides enhanced measurement by utilizing temperature probes located in convective air streams generated in the roller tube. Certain embodiments also provide an improved method for maintaining of a food product temperature by utilizing an intermediate holding mode. Finally, certain embodiments provide improved current control by limiting the number of heating circuits of a food heater that may be simultaneously enabled such that the current draw does not exceed a maximum current draw.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 9, 2011Publication date: March 29, 2012Applicant: American Wyott CorporationInventors: Roger A. Schwierking, Diosdado G. Pangan, Kenneth P. Gross
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Patent number: 8143560Abstract: A cooking apparatus is provided. The cooking apparatus includes a cooking cavity, a door, an input selection device provided on an exterior of the door, and a control panel provided in the door and operably coupled to the input selection device. The input selection device may include buttons which are illuminated by a light source provided with the control panel. A guide may be positioned between the control panel and the input selection device to guide the light generated by the light source to the input selection device and concentrate light on the buttons to illuminate the buttons. In this manner, the cooking apparatus may include a selection device on its door including buttons that are effectively illuminated.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2007Date of Patent: March 27, 2012Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.Inventors: Hyoung-jun Park, young-min Lee
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Patent number: 8143559Abstract: A heating pad is provided. The heating pad includes a heating element and a control circuit operatively connected to the heating element for providing a predetermined level of power thereto. An isolation device interconnects a power source to the control circuit. The isolation device has a first open configuration preventing transmission of electrical power therethrough and a second closed configuration allowing transmission of electrical power therethrough. The control circuit terminates power to the heating element in response to the heating element exceeding a first temperature limit. The isolation device moves from the closed configuration to the open configuration in response to the heating element exceeding a second temperature limit.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2009Date of Patent: March 27, 2012Assignee: Advance Thermo Control, Ltd.Inventor: Kwok Wai Chow
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Patent number: 8143554Abstract: A heating element includes a plurality of folded surfaces which can be resistively heating using electrical current. The heating element can advantageously function both as a heating source and a heat transfer device, as the need for separate fins or other heat dissipation members is eliminated. In some embodiments, the heating element can be included in a fluid heating system. The fluid heating system can include a fluid transfer device configured to deliver a volume or ambient air or other fluid through the heating element. As air moves past the heated folded surface of the heating element, it is heated. Heated air can then be discharged to one or more desired locations.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2008Date of Patent: March 27, 2012Assignee: Amerigon IncorporatedInventor: John Lofy
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Patent number: 8138455Abstract: A novel method for introducing delays in self timed memories is disclosed. In the proposed method, delays are introduced by introducing a capacitance on the path of signal to be delayed. The capacitances are realized by using idle lying metal layers in the circuit. The signal to be delayed is connected to these idle lying capacitances via programmable switches. The amount of delay introduced depends on the capacitance introduced in the path of signal which in turn depends on state of the switches. The state of the switches is controlled by delay codes provided externally to the delay introducing circuitry. Since, in the proposed method, idle-lying metal capacitances are utilized, the circuit can be implemented using minimum amount of additional hardware. Also delay provided by the proposed circuitry is a function of memory cell spice characteristics and core parasitic capacitances.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2006Date of Patent: March 20, 2012Assignee: STMicroelectronics Pvt. Ltd.Inventors: Nishu Kohli, Mudit Bhargava, Shishir Kumar
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Publication number: 20120061369Abstract: A multiple heater control system includes cables, connectors, and junction boxes for user-friendly daisy chain connections of heater controllers and heaters in various configurations or combinations of individually controlled heater series and/or master and slave heater series. The heater controllers include process control of AC power to the heaters and upper-limit safety shutoff that is substantially independent from the process control. The heater controllers also have variable levels of control, adjustment, display, and communications functionality in a base module that is expandable to various levels with expansion modules that are attachable to and detachable from the base module. Connector, cable, and junction configurations, adapters, and latch features enhance user friendliness.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2011Publication date: March 15, 2012Applicants: WATLOW ELECTRONIC MANUFACTURING COMPANY, MKS INSTRUMENTS, INC.Inventors: Youfan Gu, Jeffrey D. Kiernan, Charles C. Lawhead, William C. Bohlinger, Eric E. Ellis, Curtis A. Foster, James P. Hentges, Mark Loius-Gilmer Hoven, James H. Kreisel, Shawn Leininger, Robert O. Moran, Kurt W. Peterson, Jason R. Powell, Dale T. Wolfe
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Publication number: 20120063754Abstract: Disclosed are a liquid heating unit capable of monitoring the temperature of the liquid storage tank or pipe in which liquid is heated by permeation of the radiated light, a liquid processing apparatus including the same, and a liquid processing method. The liquid heating unit includes: a lamp heater radiating light; a cylindrical member having a cylindrical shape made of material permeating the radiated light configured to insert and penetrate the lamp heater into an internal space; a liquid conduction part placed along an outer periphery of the cylindrical member and configured to heat liquid flowing therein by using the radiated light; a reflection plate covering the liquid conduction part from the outside and reflecting the radiated light; and a first temperature sensor attached to an outer surface of the reflection plate.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 24, 2011Publication date: March 15, 2012Inventors: Toshihiko Nishida, Kazuyoshi Eshima, Hisakazu Nakayama
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Publication number: 20120057856Abstract: One embodiment relates to an apparatus for vacuum-compatible substrate thermal management. The apparatus includes a load-lock chamber coupled to a vacuum chamber, a light-emitting diode array, and a substrate stage. The load-lock chamber is configured to hold a substrate prior to the substrate being transferred into the vacuum chamber, and a substrate stage is configured to hold the substrate in the vacuum chamber. The light-emitting diode array is configured to warm the substrate while the substrate is in the load-lock chamber. Other features, aspects and embodiments are also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 3, 2010Publication date: March 8, 2012Inventors: Jason Keith ROWAN, Li-Min CHEN, Roni ROBINZON, Christopher Vreje OHANIAN
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Publication number: 20120057857Abstract: In various aspects, the present application describes a tankless liquid heater receiving liquid at an inlet and providing heated liquid at an outlet. The tankless liquid heater may include a heating element for heating liquid received from the inlet. A flow sensor indicates the flow rate of the liquid received by the heating element. The heater includes a temperature sensor measuring the temperature of liquid exiting the heating element. A controller of the heater regulates the amount of electrical current energizing the heating element responsive to the flow sensor and the temperature sensor, energizes the heating element when the flow rate of the liquid exceeds a predefined value and prevents energizing the heating element when the heated liquid exceeds a predefined temperature. The heater may also include a thermostatic mixing valve for mixing the heated liquid with liquid diverted from the inlet responsive to the temperature of the heated liquid.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 3, 2010Publication date: March 8, 2012Inventors: Joseph Kevin Kenney, Jeff Hankins
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Patent number: 8115145Abstract: A technique for climate control of, for example, base station circuitry within an enclosure involves placing base station circuitry within the enclosure and controlling the climate therein. A system according to this technique includes an enclosure suitable for use outside in a wide range of extreme weather conditions. A controller may, for example, control a fan tray with a heater to pull ambient air through a filtration unit, through the fan tray where the air is heated, and through cold start recirculation dampers.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2005Date of Patent: February 14, 2012Assignee: Sanmina-SCI CorporationInventors: Zia Shariff, Andrew Hudz, Anthony Cormick Sharp
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Patent number: 8115144Abstract: A method is provided that includes, but is not limited to estimating the temperature (TGP,est) of the glow-plug (GP) in accordance with a first model of the glow-plug (GP) as a function of the detected values of the glow-plug voltage and current (VGP, IGP) and the sensed values of some input variables, such as the engine speed (?E) and the engine temperature (TE), determining, in accordance with a second predetermined model of the glow-plug (GP), a desired value of the voltage (VGP,des) or power (PGP,des) to be supplied to the glow-plug (GP), as a function of a desired value of the glow-plug temperature (TGP,des), the estimated glow-plug temperature (TGP,est), and the sensed values of the input variables, and varying the duty-cycle of a pulse-width-modulated voltage (VPWM) applied to the glow-plug (GP), as a function of the calculated value of said desired voltage (VGP,des) or power (PGP,des).Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2009Date of Patent: February 14, 2012Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Stefano Cassani, Andrei Kanev
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Publication number: 20120031893Abstract: An apparatus and a method for measuring temperature in a cooking appliance, both of which utilize a circuit for reading an input from a thermal resistive device. By including a processor and an amplifier in the circuit, embodiments reduce the number of processor pins required to modify the amplified input arising from the amplifier. In one embodiment, the processor utilizes a single processor pin, through which is distributed a control output corresponding to the input and modifying the operating parameters of the amplifier.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 4, 2010Publication date: February 9, 2012Inventors: Patrick Ryan COX, David Lepie, Gregory Francis Gawron, SR.
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Publication number: 20120031894Abstract: Provided is a thermal processing method including a first process comprising changing a set temperature of the heating plate from a first temperature to a second temperature; initiating a thermal processing for a first substrate before the temperature of the heating plate reaches the second temperature; obtaining temperature data of the heating plate after the thermal processing is initiated; changing the set temperature of the heating plate from the second temperature when the set temperature reaches the second temperature; and thermal processing of the first substrate using the heating plate for which the set temperature has been changed. The method further includes a second process comprising reinstating the temperature of the heating plate to the second temperature after the thermal processing of the first substrate; and thermal processing of a next substrate using the heating plate while the temperature of the heating plate is maintained at the second temperature.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 27, 2011Publication date: February 9, 2012Inventor: Kenichi Shigetomi
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Patent number: 8110781Abstract: The present invention provides a golf club head cover which provides conventional protection to golf clubs and in addition provides a heating function for a hitting surface of the golf club in order to keep the temperature within a optimized range for hitting. The golf club head cover has a main housing having an opening side for inserting a top portion of the golf club and a heating side for disposing a temperature controlling device for heating. The temperature controlling device has a power source, a circuit board, and a heating plate which couples with the hitting surface of the top portion of the golf club to apply heat to control the temperature.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2008Date of Patent: February 7, 2012Inventor: KuangHung Kuo
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Patent number: 8112010Abstract: A heating unit heated upon receiving power supplied from an AC power supply, a temperature detecting unit detecting the temperature of the heating unit, a memory storing power energization pattern in which power energization and non-power energization are performed for each percentage of AC power, and a power control unit that determines the percentage of AC power applied to the heating unit based on the temperature and that determines the power energization pattern by referring to the memory are provided. When the power energization percentage is changed, the power control unit changes the power energization pattern after the power energization percentage is changed in accordance with the changed power energization percentage based on the power energization pattern before the power energization percentage is changed and the power energization pattern after the power energization percentage is changed.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2009Date of Patent: February 7, 2012Assignee: Canon Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Totsuhiro Yoshimoto