By Sensing Of Gas Leakage, Flashback Or Escaped Flame Patents (Class 431/22)
  • Patent number: 11322283
    Abstract: A diagnostic method for diagnosing a malfunction of a solenoid valve includes: a) storing reference features of a solenoid current waveform, b) detecting features of the solenoid current waveform during operation of the solenoid valve, c) comparing the reference features with the detected features, d) comparing the pressure value of fluid entering the solenoid valve inlet orifice with a predetermined range of pressure values in the event of deviation between the value of the detected features and the value of the reference features, e) adjusting the pressure value and repeating steps b) and c) in the case of deviation of the pressure value with respect to the pressure value range, and f) generating an alarm signal due to malfunction of the solenoid valve in the event of a deviation between the value of the detected features and the value of the reference and fluid pressure features within the pressure value range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2022
    Assignee: CAMOZZI AUTOMATION S.P.A.
    Inventors: Dario Ferrarini, Andrea Camisani
  • Patent number: 11222517
    Abstract: A system for utility safety monitoring is disclosed. In an embodiment, the system includes a utility fluid meter coupled with a home or business structure, a local control unit, a home appliance with a failure sensor, a monitoring control center, and one or more shut-off valves. The failure sensor is coupled with an Internet of Things (IOT) platform such as a NodeMCU unit. The failure sensor detects a failure event of the home appliance and sends a notification to the local control unit. The local control unit then shuts down the one or more shut-off valves and sends notifications to a utility company and an owner of the home or business structure. The shut-off valve has a locking mechanism including a diaphragm, a locking component, a magnetic solenoid, and a locking shaft with a locking notch indicating a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2022
    Inventor: Brian M. Corcoran
  • Patent number: 10830480
    Abstract: A system for controlling airflow into a single room includes a duct having a controllable damper, fluidly connected to the room, a controller connected to the damper, configured to open and close the damper, at least one sensor communicatively connected to the controller, positioned in the room and configured to measure a parameter in the room, at least one portable computing device communicatively connected to the sensor and the controller, and control logic stored as instructions on a non-transitory computer readable medium, the instructions configured to open and close the damper in response to a measurement received from the at least one sensor. A method for controlling a damper in a duct fluidly connected to a room is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2020
    Assignee: Komfort IQ, Inc.
    Inventor: John Ko
  • Patent number: 9019102
    Abstract: A service method of gas appliances includes: Detecting the gas appliances at the client ends to generate detecting signals. Transmitting the detecting signals to a service end. Identifying which client end the detecting signals come from. Examining the detecting signals to find whether the gas appliance has an abnormal condition; and informing the client end when the abnormal condition is found. After all, the service end may monitor the gas appliances at the client end, and inform the client for repair when the gas appliance has detected an abnormal signal or has damaged parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Grand Mate Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chung-Chin Huang, Chin-Ying Huang, Hsin-Ming Huang, Hsing-Hsiung Huang
  • Patent number: 9011142
    Abstract: A system for providing a combined water and fire display is provided. More specifically, a decorative display comprises a dynamic water and fire display device where fuel/air, water, and fire are integrated. The decorative display provides for unique aesthetic qualities and an appearance wherein flames are positioned at or near the surface of a volume of water. In various embodiments, the decorative display further comprises various safety features including the ability to detect and self-regulate conditions such as the existence and/or absence of a pilot flame, an adequate amount of water, and the temperature of various portions of the system. The decorative display further contemplates the ability to operate without one or more disclosed features, such as when only a water display or only a fire display is desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Inventors: William L. Muff, Timothy C. Muff
  • Patent number: 8872658
    Abstract: A service method of gas appliances includes: Detecting the gas appliances at the client ends to generate detecting signals. Transmitting the detecting signals to a service end. Identifying which client end the detecting signals come from. Examining the detecting signals to find whether the gas appliance has an abnormal condition; and informing the client end when the abnormal condition is found. After all, the service end may monitor the gas appliances at the client end, and inform the client for repair when the gas appliance has detected an abnormal signal or has damaged parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Grand Mate Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chung-Chin Huang, Chin-Ying Huang, Hsin-Ming Huang, Hsing-Hsiung Huang
  • Patent number: 8836522
    Abstract: A safety shut-off system and method for eliminating power to a load in the event of smoke detection. The system may comprise a device located at the appliance for detecting a signal from a smoke detector, and cutting power to the appliance only when the appliance is in use. The device may be synchronized with any standard smoke alarm signal to reduce the number of false positive shut-offs. The system may also comprise a smoke alarm hard-wired to a circuit breaker, for shutting off power to all appliances on a particular breaker upon receipt of a signal from the smoke alarm, and only when the appliances on the breaker are in use. The system may also have the ability to shut off one breaker, multiple breakers, or all breakers at different time increments to actively prevent and reduce the damages caused by fires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Fire Avert, LLC
    Inventors: Peter Thorpe, Michael Sanders, Chase Roberts, Kevin Sanders, Zack Bomsta
  • Patent number: 8479439
    Abstract: In certain embodiments, an apparatus for killing pests in an affected area includes a fuel source, a first air inlet configured to receive a first air flow from the affected area, and a second air inlet configured to receive a second air flow from an unaffected area. The system further includes a premix system operable to generate an air-fuel mixture by mixing a fuel flow received from the fuel source with the second air flow received from the second air inlet. The system further includes a burner operable to generate combustion air by combusting the air-fuel mixture. The combustion air is mixed with the first air flow subsequent to combustion to generate a heated air flow, and the heated air flow is discharged into the affected area. The fuel source, the premix system, and the burner are configured for positioning in the affected area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Technologies Holding Corp.
    Inventors: Todd R. DeMonte, Keith Teakell, Eric P. Camenga, Michael J. Steffes
  • Patent number: 8479440
    Abstract: In certain embodiments, an apparatus for killing pests in an affected area includes a fuel source, a first air inlet configured to receive a first air flow from the affected area, and a second air inlet configured to receive a second air flow from an unaffected area. The system further includes a premix system operable to generate an air-fuel mixture by mixing a fuel flow received from the fuel source with the second air flow received from the second air inlet. The system further includes a burner operable to generate combustion air by combusting the air-fuel mixture. The combustion air is mixed with the first air flow subsequent to combustion to generate a heated air flow, and the heated air flow is discharged into the affected area. The fuel source, the premix system, and the burner are configured for positioning in the affected area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Technologies Holdings Corp.
    Inventors: Todd R. DeMonte, Keith Teakell, Eric P. Camenga, Michael J. Steffes
  • Patent number: 8469702
    Abstract: A system for providing a combined water and fire display is provided. More specifically, a decorative display comprises a dynamic water and fire display device where fuel/air, water, and fire are integrated. The decorative display provides for unique aesthetic qualities and an appearance wherein flames are positioned at or near the surface of a volume of water. In various embodiments, the decorative display further comprises various safety features including the ability to detect and self-regulate conditions such as the existence and/or absence of a pilot flame, an adequate amount of water, and the temperature of various portions of the system. The decorative display further contemplates the ability to operate without one or more disclosed features, such as when only a water display or only a fire display is desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Inventors: William H. Muff, Timothy C. Muff
  • Patent number: 8466787
    Abstract: A service method of gas appliances includes: Detecting the gas appliances at the client ends to generate detecting signals. Transmitting the detecting signals to a service end. Identifying which client end the detecting signals come from. Examining the detecting signals to find whether the gas appliance has an abnormal condition; and informing the client end when the abnormal condition is found. After all, the service end may monitor the gas appliances at the client end, and inform the client for repair when the gas appliance has detected an abnormal signal or has damaged parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Grand Mate Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chung-Chin Huang, Chin-Ying Huang, Hsin-Ming Huang, Hsing-Hsiung Huang
  • Patent number: 8393891
    Abstract: A combustion nozzle for use in a turbine. The combustion nozzle may include a center body and a cone extending from the center body. The cone may include a number of apertures positioned therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Gregory Allen Boardman, Thomas Edward Johnson
  • Patent number: 8373539
    Abstract: It is an objective to appropriately assure a function of limiting use of appliances that cause changes in quantities of gas used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Kouichi Ueki, Kazutaka Asano, Takuhisa Ootani, Yasuo Koba, Sumiko Murakami
  • Publication number: 20120135360
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a furnace structure defining a combustion zone, and a tube that discharges fuel-oxidant premix into the combustion zone through an outlet from the tube. A reactant supply system provides the tube with unmixed fuel and oxidant for forming the premix. A flashback control means inhibits or extinguishes flashback in the tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2011
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Applicant: Fives North American Combustion, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark C. Hannum, John J. Nowakowski, Thomas F. Robertson
  • Patent number: 8007274
    Abstract: A fuel nozzle assembly is provided. The assembly includes an outer nozzle body having a first end and a second end and at least one inner nozzle tube having a first end and a second end. One of the nozzle body or nozzle tube includes a fuel plenum and a fuel passage extending therefrom, while the other of the nozzle body or nozzle tube includes a fuel injection hole slidably aligned with the fuel passage to form a fuel flow path therebetween at an interface between the body and the tube. The nozzle body and the nozzle tube are fixed against relative movement at the first ends of the nozzle body and nozzle tube, enabling the fuel flow path to close at the interface due to thermal growth after a flame enters the nozzle tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Thomas Edward Johnson, Willy Steve Ziminsky, Benjamin Paul Lacey, William David York, Christian Xavier Stevenson
  • Patent number: 7900588
    Abstract: A fuel fired appliance exhaust gas parameter sensor for continually detecting gas parameter emissions, such as CO, NOx and O2, may be located above the appliance near the appliance exhaust outlet. The sensor may be located near or under a draft hood located near the exhaust outlet. The sensor remains relatively cool by draft air moving from outside the draft hood and into a chimney, the draft being hastened by the heated, rising chimney gases. A sensor bracket may be attached to the appliance and the sensor to appropriately position the sensor under the draft hood. Alternatively, the sensor may be located on a tube that continually samples combustion exhaust. The tube may be located outside of the draft hood perimeter to maintain a low sensor temperature, while multiple tube coils around the exhaust outlet may be used to further cool the sampled gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Therm-O-Disc, Incorporated
    Inventors: Bernd D. Zimmermann, David Reynolds, Prasad S. Khadkikar
  • Publication number: 20100330515
    Abstract: An object of the invention is to appropriately control the use limit function of an appliance according to the concentration level of CO gas. A gas shutoff device is made up of a flow rate registration unit 28 for registering as an appliance flow rate, an average flow rate found by classifying and storing in a flow rate storage unit 26 after flow rate detection, a CO gas leakage determination unit 29 for inputting an output signal responsive to the concentration level of CO gas from a CO alarm 20, an appliance estimation unit 30, when a signal is output by the CO gas leakage determination unit 29 and the flow rate is registered in the flow rate registration unit 28, for storing a flow rate pattern group stored in the flow rate storage unit 26 and the registered flow rate and estimating a CO gas leakage appliance, an appliance flow rate storage unit 31 for storing the flow rate pattern group, and a communication unit 35 for reporting appliance information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2009
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Applicant: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Kouichi Ueki, Kazutaka Asano, Tadanori Shirasawa, Mitsuo Yokohata, Hirozumi Nakamura, Kazuo Kubo, Mitsuo Namba, Hisashi Saito
  • Patent number: 7849821
    Abstract: A fuel-fired water heater is provided with a premixing type main burner and an associated pilot burner for igniting it. A specially designed protective system is operative to detect a flame flashback burning condition in the main burner and responsively shut down the water heater. In one embodiment thereof, the protective system uses main burner body heat to melt a portion of a fuel supply line connected to the pilot burner during a flame flashback condition in the main burner. Such melting responsively causes an associated fuel supply valve to close and terminate water heater operation. In a second protective system embodiment a normally closed pressure switch is opened, thereby shutting down the water heater, when the switch detects a pressure indicative of a flame flashback condition in the main burner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Rheem Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Jacob A. Peart, Gary A. Elder, William J. Hall, William T. Harrigill
  • Publication number: 20100192873
    Abstract: A fuel-fired water heater is provided with a premixing type main burner and an associated pilot burner for igniting it. A specially designed protective system is operative to detect a flame flashback burning condition in the main burner and responsively shut down the water heater. In one embodiment thereof, the protective system uses main burner body heat to melt a portion of a fuel supply line connected to the pilot burner during a flame flashback condition in the main burner. Such melting responsively causes an associated fuel supply valve to close and terminate water heater operation. In a second protective system embodiment a normally closed pressure switch is opened, thereby shutting down the water heater, when the switch detects a pressure indicative of a flame flashback condition in the main burner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2010
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Applicant: RHEEM MANUFACTURING COMPANY
    Inventors: Jacob A. Peart, Gary A. Elder, William J. Hall, William T. Harrigill
  • Publication number: 20100134795
    Abstract: The present invention provides a flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer in which, when a flashback may occur, a continuous use of this apparatus through an easy operation by a user is prohibited, so that the apparatus cannot be used unless its safety is confirmed. In this apparatus, when a flashback occurrence detector 23 detects that a flashback has occurred while the flame was burning, it extinguishes the flame in accordance with a predetermined extinction sequence, sets a flashback occurrence flag to be “1,” and increments a flashback count value. Even if an ignition button 26 is pressed, an ignition is not allowed if the flashback occurrence flag is “1.” When a password that was issued after the safety was confirmed by the manufacturer is entered through an operation unit 41, a password verification unit 40 in a personal computer 4 obtains a flashback count value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2009
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Applicant: SHIMADZU CORPORATION
    Inventor: Kazuo YAMAUCHI
  • Patent number: 7721553
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for detecting a flashback condition in a fuel nozzle (8) of a gas turbine (10) are provided. The fuel nozzle is configured to pass a flow of air (20) to be mixed with a fuel in a premixing zone (11). The apparatus includes at least one fuel injecting device (12) positioned to define a point of fuel injection in the premixing zone. The apparatus further includes an electrode (16) positioned upstream of the point of fuel injection. The electrode is adapted to sense a flashback condition that can occur in the premixing zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Siemens Energy, Inc.
    Inventors: Sean A. Miller, Ramarao V. Bandaru
  • Patent number: 7695273
    Abstract: A furnace system responsive to a thermostat includes a pollutant sensor for sensing a pollutant concentration in the furnace system. The pollutant sensor is configured to open when the pollutant concentration reaches a pollutant threshold and close when the pollutant concentration falls below the pollutant threshold. When the thermostat is calling for heat, a furnace controller monitors the pollutant sensor and disables the furnace system for a lockout period if a lockout criterion related to the pollutant sensor is met.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventor: Daniel J. Dempsey
  • Patent number: 7604478
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling a fuel-fired appliance is provided. The appliance enters a wait state in which burner operation ceases if a sensor indicates the presence of flammable vapors that are above an acceptable and/or safe vapor level. The appliance returns to a run state if the vapor level returns to an acceptable and/or safe vapor level within a period of time, but enters a lockout state if the vapor level does not return to an acceptable and/or safe vapor level within the period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Peter M. Anderson, Robert M. Ruhland
  • Publication number: 20090061367
    Abstract: A gas-fired appliance is disclosed that includes a gas valve powered by a power source. A plurality of switching units, each responsive to a condition of the appliance, are arranged in series between the gas valve and the power source. Each switching unit includes an emitter, such as an emitter of an optocoupler, that is used to monitor the opened or closed status of a switch in the switching unit. When at least one switch opens, power to the gas valve is reduced preventing the gas valve from operating. However, because this reduced power is provided to each subsequent switching unit, each optocoupler can be monitored regardless of the opened or closed status of previous switching units. As such, one or more open switches can be detected simulataneously.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2008
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Inventors: Andrew Robert Caves, Andrew William Phillips, Brian Thomas Branecky, William Louis Mehlhorn, Thomas Gerard Van Sistine, John Matthew Schulz
  • Publication number: 20090004612
    Abstract: A gas-fired heating appliance includes a burner, a gas valve module for supplying a fuel gas to the burner, a power module for applying a voltage to the gas valve module, and a flammable vapor sensor module for detecting a flammable vapor. The flammable vapor sensor module interrupts the voltage to the gas valve to shut off the gas valve and the burner when the flammable vapor module detects the presence or a predetermined concentration of flammable vapor. The voltage of the power module is applied to the gas valve module through the flammable vapor sensor module. The voltage to the gas valve module is interrupted if the flammable vapor sensor module is short-circuited. This arrangement is tamper-resistant to promote a safe operation of the gas-fired heating appliance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2007
    Publication date: January 1, 2009
    Applicant: THERM-O-DISC, INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Jeffrey A. West
  • Publication number: 20080251035
    Abstract: A fuel-fired water heater is provided with a premixing type main burner and an associated pilot burner for igniting it. A specially designed protective system is operative to detect a flame flashback burning condition in the main burner and responsively shut down the water heater. In one embodiment thereof, the protective system uses main burner body heat to melt a portion of a fuel supply line connected to the pilot burner during a flame flashback condition in the main burner. Such melting responsively causes an associated fuel supply valve to close and terminate water heater operation. In a second protective system embodiment a normally closed pressure switch is opened, thereby shutting down the water heater, when the switch detects a pressure indicative of a flame flashback condition in the main burner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2007
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Applicant: RHEEM MANUFACTURING COMPANY
    Inventors: Jacob A. Peart, Gary A. Elder, William J. Hall, William T. Harrigill
  • Patent number: 7319577
    Abstract: A water heater includes a gas valve and a solenoid to operate the gas valve. A thermocouple of the water heater is heated by a pilot light to provide a current source to maintain the gas valve in an open position. A sensor activated switch switches current from a second current source to the solenoid to move the gas valve to a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2008
    Inventor: Patrick M. Dolan
  • Publication number: 20080003530
    Abstract: A controller for a fuel-fired heating appliance is provided that includes at least one sensor for detecting the presence of at least one of a flammable vapor or a carbon monoxide gas. The controller includes a transmitter module for wirelessly transmitting digital signals, and a microprocessor for controlling the operation the fuel-fired heating appliance. The microprocessor is in communication with the transmitter module, and is capable of monitoring the at least one other sensor for detecting an abnormal condition, and responds to an abnormal condition by communicating a message to the transmitter module. The transmitter module transmits the message to a thermostat that is capable of immediately displaying the message to alert an occupant of the abnormal condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2006
    Publication date: January 3, 2008
    Inventors: Donald E. Donnelly, Thomas J. Fredricks
  • Publication number: 20070281257
    Abstract: A secondary safety circuit for a gas-fired device and method of operating the circuit. The secondary safety circuit includes a low-voltage direct current power source, a valve, and at least one sensor. The valve can be positioned in a pilot burner gas line. The secondary safety circuit ensures the valve is closed upon detecting an unsafe condition with the sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2006
    Publication date: December 6, 2007
    Applicant: AOS HOLDING COMPANY
    Inventors: Dennis R. Hughes, Hyungsik Lee
  • Publication number: 20070215066
    Abstract: A water heater including a water container, a combustion chamber adjacent the water container, a burner associated with the combustion chamber, a flue gas collector located to receive flue gases generated in the combustion chamber, a CO sensor having at least an operative portion proximate the flue gas collector, a flammable vapor sensor having at least an operative portion positioned proximate a location where combustion air enters the combustion chamber, and a controller operatively connected to the CO and flammable vapor sensors and adapted to receive signals generated by the CO and flammable vapor sensors and responsively shut off combustion in the combustion chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2007
    Publication date: September 20, 2007
    Applicant: American Water Heater Company, a corporation of the State of Nevada
    Inventor: Michael A. Garrabrant
  • Patent number: 7255285
    Abstract: The present invention is directed at systems and methods for detecting flue blockages in an HVAC system without the addition of numerous additional sensor elements, wiring, and connections that can unduly increase the cost and possibly reduce the reliability of the HVAC system. In an illustrative embodiment of the present invention, changes in the output of a flame sensor are used to detect when a likely flue blockage exists.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Henry E. Troost, Richard Simons
  • Patent number: 7176805
    Abstract: Upon detection of a flammable gas condition, an intelligent thermostat regulates operation of appliances that have sources of ignition which could be the source of or may ignite the flammable gas. This hazardous condition is detected by a flammable gas detector and is communicated to the intelligent thermostat by wired or wireless communications. The intelligent thermostat then communicates with these appliances either via wired or wireless communications. The intelligent thermostat may also provide a visual warning user interface screen to inform the occupant of the hazardous condition, and may signal smoke detectors in the dwelling to sound an audible flammable gas warning. Alternatively, the flammable gas detector may signal the smoke detectors in the dwelling to sound an audible flammable gas warning directly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Maple Chase Company
    Inventors: John Gilman Chapman, Jr., Nicholas Ashworth, Robert Burt, Timothy E. Wallaert
  • Patent number: 7112059
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for controlling the operation of a gas fired appliance having a gas valve circuit for enabling the flow of gas to the burner. The apparatus comprises a sensor capable of detecting the presence of flammable vapor, a switching means in series with the gas valve solenoid circuit for interrupting a thermocouple voltage to the gas valve solenoid to disable the flow of gas, and a fuse that normally conducts a current to the switching means to maintain the switching means in a conductive state for applying a thermocouple voltage to the gas valve solenoid. In response to the detection by the sensor of the presence of a predetermined level of flammable vapor concentration, a second switch supplies a higher current through the fuse. The higher current causes the fuse to blow and interrupt the current for maintaining the switching means in a conductive state, such that the switching means interrupts the thermocouple voltage applied to the gas valve solenoid to shut off the gas to the burner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventor: Donald E. Donnelly
  • Patent number: 7083408
    Abstract: An apparatus comprising a switch, a fuse, and a sensor that is capable of detecting the presence of flammable vapors and responsively changing in resistance, wherein the sensor enables the switch to supply current to the fuse which opens to shut down an appliance burner. The fuse is connected in series with a control circuit that enables a gas valve to supply gas to the burner 65. The apparatus comprises a voltage divider circuit that includes the sensor, which upon exposure to flammable vapors, increases in resistance to provide a voltage input to the gate of a FET 100. The FET switches on and conducts a current that blows the fuse to interrupt the appliance burner control circuit and shut down burner operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co
    Inventor: Donald E Donnelly
  • Patent number: 7033165
    Abstract: A gas furnace controller for disrupting the flow of gas to a gas furnace upon detection of excessive levels of carbon monoxide comprises an air sample collector in fluid communication with a carbon monoxide detector, a gas supply shutoff circuit for controlling a valve in a gas supply line to the gas furnace; and a controller in electrical communication with the carbon monoxide detector and the gas supply shutoff circuit. The controller is adapted to actuate the gas supply shutoff circuit and sound an audible alarm in response to detection by the carbon monoxide detector of a predetermined level of carbon monoxide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Inventor: Delton R. Brown
  • Patent number: 7021925
    Abstract: The invention provides a safety module for connection to a fuel-burning appliance. The safety module connects to the existing circuitry of the appliance and triggers an alarm response when certain predetermined conditions are met. The safety module includes a CO sensor and a processor and can respond not only to acutely high CO levels but also to chronically high CO levels and lack of adherence to service schedules amongst other conditions. The safety module can also be programmed/reset.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Invensys Controls Limited
    Inventor: Charles Perryman
  • Patent number: 6948929
    Abstract: A combustion type waste gas treatment system is capable of oxidatively decomposing a hazardous combustible waste gas while heating efficiently with a structure which allows the waste gas to mix with an auxiliary burning gas efficiently without the occurrence of backfire in a waste gas inlet pipe. The combustion type waste gas treatment system has a burner part and a combustion chamber. Combustion flames are formed to extend from the burner part toward the combustion chamber, and a combustible waste gas is introduced into the combustion flames from waste gas inlet pipes thereby oxidatively decomposing the waste gas. A flow velocity accelerating device makes the flow velocity of the combustible waste gas flowing through the waste gas inlet pipe higher than the burning velocity of the combustible waste gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Assignee: Ebara Corporation
    Inventors: Tetsuo Komai, Kohtaro Kawamura, Takeshi Tsuji, Rikiya Nakamura, Kazutaka Okuda, Keiichi Ishikawa, Tomonori Ohashi, Yoshiro Takemura, Yasutaka Muroga, Tadakazu Nishikawa, Yuji Shirao
  • Patent number: 6908300
    Abstract: An apparatus comprising a switch, a fuse, and a sensor that is capable of detecting the presence of flammable vapors and responsively changing in resistance, wherein the sensor enables the switch to supply current to the fuse which opens to shut down an appliance burner. The fuse is connected in series with a control circuit that enables a gas valve to supply gas to the burner. 65 The apparatus comprises a voltage divider circuit that includes the sensor, which upon exposure to flammable vapors, increases in resistance to provide a voltage input to the gate of a FET 100. The FET switches on and conducts a current that blows the fuse to interrupt the appliance burner control circuit and shut down burner operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Inventor: Donald E. Donnelly
  • Patent number: 6895952
    Abstract: An appliance end fitting for connecting a gas operated appliance to a pressurized gas cylinder includes a simplified interior valve that acts as both a thermal valve and an excess flow control valve. The end fitting has an elongated body formed in two telescoping sections, an inner section, and an outer section. An interior opening extends through both sections and includes an enlarged center portion. A floating valve member in the center portion is movable toward a valve seat at an outer end of the center section. A spring urges the valve member away from the valve seat but excessive gas flow moves the valve member toward the valve seat and restricts the valve. The two sections of the body are held in an extended axial position by a heat activated material, such as fusible solder, where the nipple opens the cylinder shutoff valve when the body is connected to the cylinder outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Marshall Excelsior Company
    Inventor: Patrick E. Bachelder
  • Publication number: 20040265759
    Abstract: A process and a device for monitoring the imperviousness of a radiant tube fired by a gas burner is disclosed. From a burner control a burner signal is derived that may have at least the states BURNER OFF when the burner is switched off and BURNER ON when the burner is switched on. In addition, the exhaust gas flow of the burner is monitored and an exhaust gas signal is derived there from which may at least have the states EXHAUST GAS OFF when there is no sufficient volume flow of exhaust gas flowing out of the radiant tube, and EXHAUST GAS ON when there is a correctly flowing exhaust gas. The burner signal and the exhaust gas signal are linked with each other for outputting a failure signal in case the combination BURNER ON and EXHAUST GAS OFF results.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Wolfgang Harbeck, Juergen Noack, Rene Lohr
  • Patent number: 6758913
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of cleaning a container having an amount of anhydrous ammonia contained therein. The container is first inspected thoroughly for leaks. Heated nitrogen gas is then fed into the container. The heated nitrogen gas may be transported from a nitrogen storage tank to the container via at least one pipe. Liquid nitrogen may be fed into a vaporizer for vaporizing the nitrogen. The liquid nitrogen gas may then be heated via a heater, such as a steamer, to expand the nitrogen gas and ensure that no liquid nitrogen enters the container. The heated nitrogen gas may vaporize any liquid anhydrous ammonia contained therein. Further, the heated nitrogen gas may transport the anhydrous ammonia to a flare for incineration. The heated nitrogen gas may be added any number of times to reduce the concentration of the anhydrous ammonia therein to a desired level. The container may then be steam cleaned and opened to enter and thoroughly clean the inside of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Joseph P. Tunney, Paul Buchan
  • Patent number: 6739865
    Abstract: A system and method for disabling an oil furnace based on a vacuum level measurement. The oil furnace includes a pump and a burning device. The pump is adapted to transfer oil from a storage device to the burning device. A measurement device adapted to measure a vacuum level between an output of the storage device and an input of the pump. A means for disabling power to the oil furnace is adapted to disable power to the oil furnace based on a first specified vacuum level measurement set point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Inventor: Jeffrey W. Jamison
  • Patent number: 6722876
    Abstract: A safety device for shutting off the flow of gas to a gas-fired appliance in the presence of flammable vapors. The resistance of a variable resistance flammable vapor sensor is monitored by a microprocessor that controls the operation of a gas flow valve. When the measured resistance indicates the presence of a preselected concentration of flammable vapors, the gas flow valve is shut of and the ignition system cannot be energized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Assignee: The Water Heater Industry Joint Research and Development Consortium
    Inventors: Anthony W. Abraham, Dwain Moore, John Paisley, Xiangsheng Wang
  • Patent number: 6648627
    Abstract: The invention relates to a gas appliance (1), with a gas burner (4) in the lower part of the said appliance and in the vicinity of an underlying surface (6), further comprising: an atmosphere control pilot light (12) fitted with a primary air inlet orifice connected to which is a tube (10), the free orifice (11) of which is located below the gas burner (4); and means (12) for detecting the temperature of the flame (15) of the pilot light which are operationally coupled to means (14) for cutting off the gas supply to the main burner (4); whereby the gas supply to the burner is interrupted when cooling of the flame of the pilot light, caused by gas enrichment of the mixture (vapors in the primary air, air intake obstructed by a liquid phase) is detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Sourdillon
    Inventor: Bernard Dane
  • Patent number: 6554608
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for operating a pilot burner apparatus and a main burner apparatus of a gas-fired appliance. The pilot burner apparatus draws combustion air from a first environment. The main combustion apparatus draws air from a second environment. In a shutdown condition, such as when a flammable vapor source is accidentally exposed to the second environment, the pilot burner apparatus draws air containing an undesired flammable vapor which eliminates the pilot flame, triggering a gas valve to close and shut down the fuel gas supply to the main burner apparatus and the pilot burner apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Assignee: Gas Research Institute
    Inventors: John A. Bowman, Karen R. Benedek, Stephan E. Schmidt
  • Patent number: 6552647
    Abstract: A monitor and control system that responds to alarm signals representing different hazardous conditions in an environment having a number of utility service supply lines, such as a home residence. One or more sensors coupled to the processor are each associated with one or more of the service supply lines. Each sensor produces an alarm signal in response to a hazardous condition attributable to an associated supply line. Each associated supply line is provided with a control device that is coupled to an output of the processor, and the processor is configured to produce one or more output signals in response to an alarm signal at a given input. Each control device is arranged to disable its associated supply line with respect to a sensed hazardous condition in response to a corresponding output signal from the processor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Inventors: Ricky H. Thiessen, Thomas J. Fay, Richard L. DeMarinis
  • Patent number: 6484951
    Abstract: A thermostat comprising an audible alarm or LCD, and sensing means for sensing at least one signal from at least one external carbon monoxide detector. The thermostat is configured to change the temperature setting to 50° F., and to trigger the audible alarm or flash a warning on the LCD display when receiving a signal from at least one carbon monoxide detector indicating the presence of a harmful level of carbon monoxide. The heating system's operation is not disabled but rather reduced to prevent potential freezing damage. The thermostat would continue the audible alarm, flashing warning and 50° F. temperature setting until it is reset.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventor: Carl J. Mueller
  • Patent number: 6339379
    Abstract: A carbon monoxide detector for detecting the level of carbon monoxide in a furnace supply duct. The carbon monoxide detector includes a carbon monoxide detector that has a housing. The housing is coupled to an exterior surface of a furnace supply duct of a furnace. The carbon monoxide detector also has a probe assembly that extends outward from the housing into the furnace supply duct for detecting a level of carbon monoxide in the furnace supply duct. The carbon monoxide detector further has a control unit. The control unit is operationally coupled with a limiting switch of the furnace. The control unit provides a signal to the limiting switch upon detection of a carbon monoxide level above a pre-determined level whereby the limiting switch is activated to shut off the furnace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2002
    Inventors: Michael A. Argus, Joyce Argus
  • Publication number: 20010038986
    Abstract: A safety device for shutting off the flow of gas to a gas-fired appliance in the presence of flammable vapors. The resistance of a variable resistance flammable vapor sensor is monitored by a microprocessor that controls the operation of a gas flow valve. When the measured resistance indicates the presence of a preselected concentration of flammable vapors, the gas flow valve is shut of and the ignition system cannot be energized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2001
    Publication date: November 8, 2001
    Applicant: INVENSYS ROBERTSHAW CONTROLS COMPANY
    Inventors: Anthony W. Abraham, Dwain Moore
  • Patent number: RE37745
    Abstract: A multi-function controller for a water heater is advanced comprising a control panel and a plurality of sensors that monitor a variety of functions that impact the operation of a water heater. A flammable gas sensor, placed in proximity to the air intake, detects the presence of an unsafe concentration of gas and issues a signal to the control panel, which subsequently discontinues the operation of the burners. Detection of a blocked vent pipe is achieved by a carbon monoxide sensor placed near the draft hood. The control panel is equipped with circuitry which monitors usage of the heater for a specified time period to develop a pattern of use. Subsequent to the monitoring period, the controller will activate the burners a predetermined time prior to an anticipated period of high use. During periods of low use, the controller will decrease the temperature to which the water is to be heated, thereby resulting in a more efficient heater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Assignee: AOS Holding Company
    Inventors: John H. Brandt, Randall T. Meyer, Bradley N. Plank