Preventing, Removing Or Handling Atmospheric Condensate Patents (Class 62/150)
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Publication number: 20140130529Abstract: A condensate management system for an air conditioning condensate drainage system is provided. The condensate management system may comprise an inlet and an outlet; a primary condensate flow path from the inlet to the outlet; a check valve disposed along the primary condensate flow path; a flush path from the inlet to the outlet; a pump coupled to the flush path; and a logic panel configured to actuate the pump to a flushing mode. The check valve may be configured to allow fluid flow from the inlet to the outlet. When the logic panel is configured to actuate the pump to the flushing mode, the pump is configured to exert a negative pressure at the inlet and a positive pressure at the outlet. Other system and methods to flush a condensate drain system are also described.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 13, 2013Publication date: May 15, 2014Applicant: Plexaire LLCInventors: Stewart KAISER, William G. Williams
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Publication number: 20140130530Abstract: An in-vehicle absorption heat pump device comprises a regenerator; an in-vehicle heat source heating absorbent in the regenerator; a gas-liquid separator; a condenser condensing gas phase separated from the absorbent; an evaporator evaporating a condensate to form vapor; an absorber for bringing the relatively concentrated absorbent in liquid phase in contact with the gas phase to cause the absorbent to absorb the gas phase and be relatively diluted; an absorbent circulation source circulating the absorbent; a bypass passage connecting a liquid-phase storing portion of the gas-liquid separator and the regenerator while bypassing the absorber; and a bypass transfer source in the bypass passage returning the absorbent in the gas-liquid separator to the regenerator. To dilute absorbent in the absorber, a diluent passage allows the condenser and the absorber to communicate and the condensate in the condenser to be supplied to the absorber through the diluent passage by a dilution element.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 21, 2012Publication date: May 15, 2014Applicant: AISIN SEIKI KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Akifumi Tomita, Osamu Tsubouchi, Haruyuki Tsujihara
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Patent number: 8707719Abstract: An air conditioner includes a refrigerant circuit, a switching valve, an outdoor fan and a controller. The refrigerant circuit sequentially circulates refrigerant through a compressor, an indoor heat exchanger, a decompression mechanism and an outdoor heat exchanger during a heating operation. The switching valve is connected to the refrigerant circuit to switch a flow direction of the refrigerant discharged from the compressor. The controller executes a defrosting operation control in which the outdoor fan is deactivated and the switching valve directs refrigerant discharged from the compressor towards the outdoor heat exchanger during a defrosting operation. The controller further maintains the switching valve so refrigerant discharged from the compressor is directed towards the outdoor heat exchanger and executes a fan defrosting operation control in which the outdoor fan is rotated for a predetermined period of time after completion of the defrosting operation when a predetermined condition is satisfied.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2009Date of Patent: April 29, 2014Assignee: Daikin Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Tsuyoshi Yamada, Tetsuya Ogasawara, Junichi Shimoda
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Patent number: 8701427Abstract: A method for controlling a vehicle HVAC system to automatically defog a windshield glass and to prevent fogging or condensation of the windshield glass. In-cabin air temperature and relative humidity are measured and used to determine a dewpoint. Further, ambient or outside temperature is measured. If windshield wipers are being used or if the cabin air temperature is less than a predetermined temperature, the ambient air temperature value is used as a glass temperature, otherwise the glass temperature is determined from the ambient air temperature and vehicle speed. A fog margin, which is a measure of the likelihood of fog formation, is based upon the difference between dewpoint and the windshield glass temperature. The fog margin is used to control the HVAC system to anticipate and respond to potential fogging conditions.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2007Date of Patent: April 22, 2014Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Daniel Yelles
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Publication number: 20140102123Abstract: A control device including a condensate sensor to generate a control signal when the condensate sensor detects condensate accumulated in a condensate reservoir has reached a predetermined level wherein the condensate sensor comprises a first sensor pin and second sensor pin coupled to a control section by a first detection sensor component and a second detection sensor component respectively balanced to reduce electrolysis that occurs when the condensate reaches the predetermined level that would otherwise cause the first sensor pin and the second sensor pin to corrode excessively.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 14, 2013Publication date: April 17, 2014Inventors: Christopher Cantolino, Carlos M. Pena
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Patent number: 8695365Abstract: An apparatus for managing operation of refrigerating machines controls defrosting of evaporators of refrigeration cycles. Each of the refrigeration cycles uses a compressor, a condenser, a decompressor, and the evaporator, and is formed for a corresponding one of cooling/heating devices installed in a single store. The apparatus obtains a total estimated power consumption in a case of a pull-down operation using power consumptions necessary for the pull-down operation performed for the cooling/heating devices after defrosting is performed and using a power consumption of the store that includes at least the power consumptions of the refrigeration cycles and that is estimated for each of predetermined time periods. The apparatus changes defrosting start times or defrosting end times of the cooling/heating devices so that the total estimated power consumption does not exceed an upper limit value of a power consumption set in advance by the store.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2012Date of Patent: April 15, 2014Assignee: SANYO Electric Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kei Yazaki, Kyoichi Takano
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Publication number: 20140075976Abstract: Embodiments for controlling condensate in a charge air cooler are provided. One example method for an engine comprises cooling intake air through a charge air cooler and adjusting a vibration device of the charge air cooler based on charge air cooler condensation conditions.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 17, 2012Publication date: March 20, 2014Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLCInventors: Chris Paul Glugla, Garlan J. Huberts, Michael Damian Czekala
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Patent number: 8650892Abstract: Disclosed is a system to extract water moisture from the atmosphere, highly purify and condition the extracted water, and provide beverages for human consumption. In one embodiment, the device collects water-vapor condensation from filtered intake air, and then subjects the condensate to a series of purification filters and to a sterilization process in order to produce drinking water. The system may then use the water produced to provide carbonated drinks, flavored drinks, coffee drinks, or ice. The system may also play music and charge a portable electronic device. The disclosed system may incorporate the variations in different combinations.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: EcoloBlue, Inc.Inventors: Wayne Ferreira, Henri-James Tieleman
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Publication number: 20130340458Abstract: Water for data center uses is generated from the ambient air by a water generator that cools air below its dew point, thereby causing the water in such air to precipitate out. The water generator is powered by renewable energy sources that provide a sufficient amount of energy over an extended period of time, despite temporary interruptions. Heated air from the data center is exhausted so as to absorb moisture from the ambient air, with such heated air being capable of holding a greater amount of moisture, and is then directed through the water generator, thereby enabling the water generator to generate a greater amount of water. The level of water available is monitored and the water generator utilizes on-demand power sources to generate a greater amount of water so as to avoid emptying water storage units.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 22, 2012Publication date: December 26, 2013Applicant: MICROSOFT CORPORATIONInventors: Mark Edward Shaw, Sean M. James
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Publication number: 20130327070Abstract: A refrigerated merchandiser including a case defining a product display area supporting product and an evaporator disposed in an air passageway in fluid communication with the product display area via an outlet to direct a refrigerated airflow into the product display area. The merchandiser also includes a control system in communication with and programmed to control the refrigeration system so that the product display area is maintained within a predetermined temperature range. The control system also varies the temperature of the refrigerated airflow through the outlet above an airflow temperature threshold between about 35 degrees Fahrenheit and 41 degrees Fahrenheit at least once during a predetermined time period to avoid formation of frost on the evaporator while maintaining the product display area within the predetermined temperature range.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 12, 2012Publication date: December 12, 2013Applicant: HUSSMANN CORPORATIONInventors: Brian J. Rees, Simon A. Johnston, Derek R. Lea
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Patent number: 8584475Abstract: A self-contained water generation system is disclosed. The present system allows for the generation of water using only wind power and standard air conditioning components. A wind turbine drives, directly or indirectly, a compressor that compresses refrigerant and provides the refrigerant to a condenser and evaporator. During the evaporation of the refrigerant, water is condensed and collected for use. The components of the water generation system may be configured in a housing and movably mounted atop a column so that the housing can rotate about the column, allowing the wind turbine maximize the use of wind forces.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2010Date of Patent: November 19, 2013Inventor: George Scesney
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Patent number: 8584481Abstract: An integrated air conditioner that controls the operation of a water feed device according to the mode of use. The air conditioner includes a control section that determines whether or not exhaust heat from a condenser 3 is being released outdoors through an exhaust duct 7 according to whether or not an air intake duct 26 or an exhaust duct 7 is fitted, operates a water feed device 8 for leading drain wafer collected in the drain pan to the condenser 3 during both of a cooling operation and a dehumidifying operation if it determines that the heat to be released from the condenser 3 is being released outdoors, and operates the water feed device 8 during the cooling operation and stops the operation of the water feed device 8 during the dehumidifying operation if it determines that the exhaust heat from the condenser 3 is not being released outdoors.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2009Date of Patent: November 19, 2013Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Tohru Ariga
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Patent number: 8561420Abstract: An air conditioning system for a vehicle includes a compressor, a condenser, a first sub-cooler, a metering device, and an evaporator assembly. The evaporator assembly includes an evaporator and a second sub-cooler. The second sub-cooler is arranged below the evaporator such that water condensation from the evaporator drains onto the second sub-cooler to cool the second sub-cooler such that a temperature of the refrigerant exiting the second sub-cooler is less than a temperature of the refrigerant exiting the first sub-cooler.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2009Date of Patent: October 22, 2013Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Shinji Kakizaki, Junichi Kanemaru
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Patent number: 8561417Abstract: A fluid-sensing switch system that can monitor pre-established threshold fluid levels in the primary drain pan inside an air conditioning unit or other condensate-producing unit, and also in a secondary drain pan positioned under the unit. Once the threaded plug of a sensing probe is connected to the unit's weep hole, it positions a center sensor providing a first power potential through a false-trigger-reducing resilient piece in a position to wait for rising fluid capable of breaching a weep hole dam. A substantially circular sensor is also present provides the second power potential needed for signal generation. A signal-generating member connected to both sensors is electrically connected to the unit to shut it off, and/or activate a pump that removes fluid from the secondary drain pan. The signal-generating member provides the redundant safety alarm capability, when mounted on a secondary drain pan. Anti-microbial elements are optional, but preferred.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2010Date of Patent: October 22, 2013Inventor: Christopher Ralph Cantolino
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Patent number: 8555664Abstract: A refrigerator is provided that includes a chilled interior and a cooling circuit for a coolant, the cooling circuit being provided with an evaporator, a compressor, and a condenser. The refrigerator further includes a controller as well as a fan for cooling the condenser and the compressor. The controller controls the fan to operate during an idle phase of the compressor.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2008Date of Patent: October 15, 2013Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeraete GmbHInventors: Hans Ihle, Matthias Mrzyglod
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Patent number: 8539783Abstract: An improved refrigerator energy management system removes condensation from glass refrigerator doors in an energy efficient manner by operating refrigerator frame heaters independently of refrigerator door heaters. Sensors for detecting humidity or condensation transmit data to a control unit that controls electrical current supplied to separate door and frame heater wires. Additional sensors for controlling the refrigerator lighting and monitoring the power consumption of refrigerator fans may transmit data to the control unit. A command unit may receive data from multiple control units, compile the data, and make it available over the internet to a shopkeeper monitoring the system from a remote location. The sensors, control unit, and command unit all communicate on a wireless peer-to-peer network using the ZigBee protocol.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2010Date of Patent: September 24, 2013Assignee: Supermarket Energy Technologies, LLCInventor: John Bunch
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Patent number: 8534083Abstract: An evaporative cooling condenser for a household appliance cooling system includes a water source, a heat exchanger configured to contain a refrigerant, and a fluid heat transfer device, the fluid heat transfer device configured to receive water from the water source and apply the water to the heat exchanger for rejecting heat from the heat exchanger.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2010Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Martin Nicholas Austin, Joel Erik Hitzelberger, Jeffrey M. Wood, Richard DeVos, Andrew Jason Veenstra, Brent Alden Junge
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Patent number: 8511104Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus and a method for controlling a driving of a fan motor for a refrigerator. In a normal driving mode that a temperature of the inside of the refrigerator is higher than a predetermined temperature, the fan motor is driven in a normal speed, and in a waiting mode that the temperature of the inside of the refrigerator is lower than the predetermined temperature, the fan motor is driven in a driving speed very lower than that of the normal driving mode, without stopping of the fan motor, accordingly it is capable of preventing moisture introduced into the fan motor from being frozen, thereby preventing the fan motor from being locked.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 2007Date of Patent: August 20, 2013Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.Inventors: Dong-Il Lee, Hyoun-Jeong Shin
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Patent number: 8505320Abstract: According to certain embodiments disclosed in the present application, a climate controlled seating assembly includes a thermal module. The thermal module comprises at least one inlet channel, at least one outlet channel and a thermoelectric device (e.g., Peltier circuit) positioned upstream of the outlet channel. In one embodiment, the seating assembly includes a sensor positioned within an interior of the thermal module and configured to detect the presence of a liquid, such as water, relative humidity, condensation or other fluids, on or near said sensor.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2012Date of Patent: August 13, 2013Assignee: Gentherm IncorporatedInventor: John Lofy
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Patent number: 8495822Abstract: A heat pump module and a drying apparatus having the same are provided. The heat pump module may include a housing, an evaporator provided in the housing that condenses humid air introduced into the housing via evaporation of a refrigerant, a condenser provided in the housing that heats the air having passed through the evaporator via condensation of the refrigerant, and at least one condensed water guide or remover provided in the housing that removes condensed water generated on a surface of the evaporator therefrom.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2010Date of Patent: July 30, 2013Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.Inventors: Na Eun Kim, Cheol Soo Ko, Young Min Kim
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Patent number: 8490420Abstract: A refrigerating device for deep-frozen products has a coolant loop including a compressor, a condenser, a throttle, and an evaporator. The device also has a product chamber temperature-impinged by the evaporator, and a control unit provided for deicing, which works together with the coolant loop in such a way that upon deicing, both the evaporator and also a drainage channel provided for receiving the condensed water are heated. The evaporator impinges the temperature of the product chamber via the side wall of the product chamber, and at least the side wall impinged by the evaporator has the drainage channel, the evaporator at least partially heating the drainage channel upon deicing of the product chamber.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2006Date of Patent: July 23, 2013Assignee: AHT Cooling Systems GmbHInventor: Reinhold Resch
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Patent number: 8468842Abstract: Alternative means of inhibiting frosting in the interior heat exchanger of a DX system when switching from the heating mode to the cooling mode, plus an improved insulation and heat transfer means for vertically oriented sub-surface geothermal heat transfer tubing, as well as a means to protectively coat the sub-surface metal tubing of a DX system in a corrosive environment.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2009Date of Patent: June 25, 2013Assignee: Earth to Air Systems, LLCInventor: B. Ryland Wiggs
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Patent number: 8434317Abstract: A refrigerated appliance such as a refrigerator receives a demand response signal indicating a peak demand period and operates the refrigerator in an energy savings mode by disabling an anti-sweat heater. Sensors monitor ambient temperature and humidity, and the dry bulb temperature of a preselected region where incipient moisture would likely form. Data from the sensors is sent to a controller which calculates ambient dew point and compares the dry bulb temperature of the preselected region with the calculated dew point to enable the anti-sweat heater during the peak demand period and prevent incipient formation of moisture.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2010Date of Patent: May 7, 2013Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventor: John K. Besore
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Publication number: 20130098080Abstract: A method and system for condensing water from ambient air. A dew extracting device with a dew extraction zone having surfaces has the surfaces chilled to below dew temperature for a first period of time. An air moving device directs a flow of air over the chilled surfaces so that liquid water condenses on the surfaces, raising the temperature of the surfaces. The chilling of the surfaces is terminated for a second period of time and liquid water is removed from the surfaces and heat of condensation is removed from the dew extraction zone. Then the process repeats to obtain additional liquid water.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 25, 2011Publication date: April 25, 2013Inventor: Robert P. Biancardi
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Patent number: 8424320Abstract: An air dehumidifier, and a method for dehumidifying, for a frequency converter arrangement including a surface to be cooled, on which humidity condenses when the surface is being cooled and when, at the same time, the inside of the frequency converter cabinet is possibly being heated. The air dehumidifier is positioned inside the frequency converter cabinet and including at least one air/liquid heat exchanger.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2008Date of Patent: April 23, 2013Assignee: ABB OyInventor: Jari-Pekka Matsinen
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Patent number: 8418484Abstract: A heat exchanger for exchanging heat between gasses such as air and a liquid or gaseous coolant has narrow spacing between exchanger surfaces for high efficiency. To avoid undue obstruction of gas flow due to ice buildup on the exchanger surfaces, the heat exchanger is equipped with sensors to monitor the gas flow and an actuator that widens the spacing between exchanger surfaces such that gas flow remains unimpeded. Embodiments provide for defrosting of the exchanger surfaces when an limit on spacing of exchanger surfaces is reached, and for relaxing the spacing to the original narrow spacing when defrosting is completed.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2008Date of Patent: April 16, 2013Assignee: The Trustees of Dartmouth CollegeInventors: Victor Petrenko, Charles R. Sullivan
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Patent number: 8402774Abstract: In apparatus to convert cryogenic fluid to gas, a vaporizer having passages to pass the cool or cold cryogenic fluid in heat transfer relation with warming gas flowing downwardly through the vaporizer, the vaporizer having surfaces on which ice collects and from which ice falls to the base of the vaporizer and collects in a pile, and removing fluid flow control means operating to direct flow of removing fluid at the ice pile with sufficient force to cause removal of such ice in the pile relative to the vaporizer base.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2005Date of Patent: March 26, 2013Assignee: Cryoquip, Inc.Inventor: Ross M. Brown
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Patent number: 8398733Abstract: A split type potable water extractor from ambient air and water dispenser is invented, comprising separate water generating block located outside a water use area and water dispensing block located inside a water use area. The water generator block cycles refrigerant through a condenser and an evaporator to create condensation by heat exchange with ambient air circulated by an intake airflow system. The condensate water is collected and purified in a cascade of bactericidal loop to remove impurities. The purified water is pumped to a dispensing apparatus that can be installed in the home or other area of water use separate from the water generating block. If any one of the functional parts or units of water generator is disabled the water generator immediately stops operating to deliver water to the tank of the dispensing apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2010Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: Ser-Manukyan Family HoldingsInventor: Zohrab Melikyan
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Patent number: 8397525Abstract: The invention relates to a device for controlling a condensate lift pump, comprising a means for detecting at least two condensate levels in a container, and a means for activating and for stopping the pump according to the levels, in which the detection means comprises a capacitive detector comprising at least three electrodes: a ground electrode; a first level detection electrode; and a second level detection electrode, and a processing means comprising a means for measuring the capacitance between the electrodes. According to the invention, the lengths of the first level detection electrode and second level detection electrode are defined so as to come into contact with the condensates, when the condensates respectively reach the first level and the second level in the container; these electrodes are produced on distinct supports not having a submergible physical continuity between them.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2009Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: Sauermann IndustrieInventors: Antoine Chauvin, Fabrice Leze, Michel Baillon
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Publication number: 20130055741Abstract: A refrigeration appliance includes a carcass having a coolable freezer compartment. A door leaf is hinged to the carcass and provided for opening and closing the freezer compartment. Disposed in the freezer compartment is an ice maker, which includes an ice production apparatus for producing ice cubes, an ice storage container for storing the ice cubes, an insulating housing, in which the ice production apparatus and the ice storage container are disposed, and which has a dispenser for dispensing ice cubes stored in the ice storage container, and a sealing apparatus for opening and closing the dispenser.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 21, 2011Publication date: March 7, 2013Applicant: BSH BOSCH UND SIEMENS HAUSGERÄTE GMBHInventors: Albert Dirnberger, Gerhard Eckl, Norman Koch, Jose Manuel Lamuela Rosano, Gerald Schmidt, Georg Spiessl, Hans Peter Werner
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Patent number: 8375732Abstract: A method for controlling an air conditioning system in a vehicle to reduce the humidity entering into the interior of the vehicle is disclosed. One aspect of the disclosure is that a measure for the amount of water collected at the fresh air intake port is determined as a function of a sensor signal. Thereafter, the determined measure for the amount of water collected at the fresh air intake port may be used to control the air conditioning system in such a manner that the amount of air that is drawn in through the fresh air intake port is reduced.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2010Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke AktiengesellschaftInventors: Joern Hofhaus, Christian Schmidt
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Patent number: 8376184Abstract: A device for removing condensation from an ice duct of an ice dispenser for a refrigerator. The device may include a flap, which is arranged to seal an output opening of the ice dispenser and a controller for the flap, which is designed to move the flap between a closed position, in which the inner side of the flap contacts the edge of the outlet opening and a dispensing position in which the flap is withdrawn from the edge of the outlet opening to permit the dispensing of ice cubes. Further, the controller is designed to open the flap after expiry of a first time period, during which the flap is not moved by the action of a user or by the controller and to close the flap after expiry of a second time period.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2008Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeraete GmbHInventors: Martin Buchstab, Jürgen Diebold, Irene Dumkow, Klaus Flinner, Markus Hanichl, Bernd Heger, Peter Nalbach, Günter Raubold, Gerald Schmidt, Martin Schweyer
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Patent number: 8365542Abstract: The present invention provides an energy efficient air conditioner that can provide a continuous supply of air at dew point that is several degrees Celsius below zero, without requiring a defrost cycle. The air conditioner in accordance to present invention comprises a plurality of cooling coils with interconnecting refrigerant piping, refrigeration circuit consisting of compressor and condenser coils, control circuit and one or more electric motor driven centrifugal fan. The present invention uses two cooling systems. The first cooling system having single coil cools the air to a temperature just above zero deg. C., say four deg. C. so that the second stage gets a steady supply of cold air. The second stage has two coils, each being half the size of the first stage coil, thus taking half the air from it so that all the air from stage 1 passes through stage 2. In operation, only one coil of the second stage is active arid chills the air going through it to say minus 14 Deg. C.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2010Date of Patent: February 5, 2013Inventor: Surendra Himatlal Shah
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Publication number: 20130008196Abstract: A device for extracting water contained in the air by condensation is provided. The device includes: a fan for creating an air flow; a heat transfer fluid evaporator for condensing the water in the air flow created by the fan; and a compressor for compressing the heat transfer fluid evaporated by the evaporator, which compressor is placed in the air flow downstream of the evaporator. A system for producing drinking water from the air is also provided, which includes the aforementioned water extraction device. The system can be used to produce water from the air, with an improved performance.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 24, 2011Publication date: January 10, 2013Applicant: WWSInventor: Michel Poyet
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Patent number: 8347643Abstract: Various control methods are disclosed for removing moisture from the external surfaces of an evaporator in a refrigerant system to avoid moisture entering a conditioned space. In one embodiment, the evaporator fan is driven in a reverse direction, and the air is guided to the outdoor environment. In other embodiments, a supplemental exhaust fan is utilized in conjunction with the evaporator fan. Also, a reheat circuit, hot gas bypass circuit, or specific features of a heat pump unit may be utilized to more efficiently perform the moisture removal.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2006Date of Patent: January 8, 2013Assignee: Carrier CorporationInventors: Michael F. Taras, Alexander Lifson
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Publication number: 20130000335Abstract: A cooling system for transferring heat from a heat load to an environment has a volatile working fluid. The cooling system includes first and second cooling cycles that are thermally connected to the first cooling cycle. The first cooling cycle is not a vapor compression cycle and includes a pump, an air-to-fluid heat exchanger, and a fluid-to-fluid heat exchanger. The second cooling cycle can include a chilled water system for transferring heat from the fluid-to-fluid heat exchanger to the environment. Alternatively, the second cooling cycle can include a vapor compression system for transferring heat from the fluid-to-fluid heat exchanger to the environment.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 10, 2012Publication date: January 3, 2013Applicant: LIEBERT CORPORATIONInventors: Steven A. BORROR, Frank E. DIPAOLO, Thomas E. HARVEY, Steven M. MADARA, Reasey J. MAM, Stephen C. SILLATO
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Publication number: 20120324930Abstract: A cooling system for transferring heat from a heat load to an environment has a volatile working fluid. The cooling system includes first and second cooling cycles that are thermally connected to the first cooling cycle. The first cooling cycle is not a vapor compression cycle and includes a pump, an air-to-fluid heat exchanger, and a fluid-to-fluid heat exchanger. The second cooling cycle can include a chilled water system for transferring heat from the fluid-to-fluid heat exchanger to the environment. Alternatively, the second cooling cycle can include a vapor compression system for transferring heat from the fluid-to-fluid heat exchanger to the environment.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2012Publication date: December 27, 2012Applicant: LIEBERT CORPORATIONInventors: Steven A. BORROR, Frank E. DIPAOLO, Thomas E. HARVEY, Steven M. MADARA, Reasey J. MAM, Stephen C. SILLATO
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Patent number: 8333082Abstract: An air conditioning system condensate collection pan or water leak containment pan electrical control switch includes a housing or frame for supporting a switch unit which includes an elongated actuator arm. The housing includes a slot disposed adjacent a distal end of the actuator arm for receiving a water soluble tablet engageable with the actuator arm to bias the arm into a predetermined position of the switch. Abnormal accumulation of condensate or leaking water dissolves the tablet and allows the actuator arm to move to a position to effect actuation of the switch. The switch may be connected to a control unit, a thermostat and/or to an alarm generator including a self-contained unit having battery powered audio and/or visual alarm devices, an on-off switch and a circuit test switch.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2010Date of Patent: December 18, 2012Inventor: Joe D. Robinson
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Patent number: 8322152Abstract: A sensor assembly for detecting ice crystal formation on a heat exchange surface in an ice-making machine comprises at least one microphone monitoring the sound made by a rotating blade assembly within the ice-making machine during ice slurry formation. A filter filters the output of the microphone to remove background noise. A comparator receives the output of the filter and compares the filtered microphone output with a threshold to determine if the filtered microphone output signifies ice crystal formation on the heat exchange surface. The operation of the ice-making machine can then be adjusted in a manner to allow the formed ice crystals to be removed from the heat exchange surface.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2010Date of Patent: December 4, 2012Assignee: Sunwell Engineering Company LimitedInventor: Vladimir Goldstein
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Patent number: 8302412Abstract: Disclosed is a system to extract water moisture from the atmosphere, highly purify and condition the extracted water, and provide beverages for human consumption. In one embodiment, the device collects water-vapor condensation from filtered intake air, and then subjects the condensate to a series of purification filters and to a sterilization process in order to produce drinking water. The system may then use the water produced to provide carbonated drinks, flavored drinks, coffee drinks, or ice. The system may also play music and charge a portable electronic device. The disclosed system may incorporate the variations in different combinations.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 2011Date of Patent: November 6, 2012Assignee: EcoloBlue, Inc.Inventors: Henri-James Tieleman, Wayne Ferreira
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Patent number: 8301335Abstract: A system for controlling air-conditioning of a vehicle includes an input, an offset generator module, and an evaporator temperature control module. The input receives an input temperature. The offset generator module receives a psychrometric parameter of air inside the vehicle and generates offsets based on the input temperature and the psychrometric parameter. The evaporator temperature control module generates a target evaporator temperature based on the offsets.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2009Date of Patent: October 30, 2012Assignees: Chrysler Group LLC, Daimler AGInventors: Mark A. Hill, Alfred Jeckel, Curt O'Donnell, Mark Bigler, Lance Tagliapietra
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Publication number: 20120255318Abstract: A refrigeration apparatus includes a refrigerant circuit having a main circuit performing a refrigeration cycle and a branch circuit which branches part of high-pressure liquid refrigerant flowing through the main circuit and leads the part of high-pressure liquid refrigerant from a high-pressure part of the main circuit to part of the main circuit having a pressure lower than that of the high-pressure part. The branch circuit is connected to a cooler configured to cool a power element(s) of a power supply device supplying power to drivers of components of the refrigerant circuit by refrigerant. In the refrigeration apparatus, an adjusting mechanism configured to adjust the state of refrigerant flowing through the branch circuit and adjust the temperature of refrigerant passing through the cooler to a target temperature is provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 22, 2010Publication date: October 11, 2012Inventors: Naohiro Kido, Toshiyuki Maeda
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Patent number: 8268030Abstract: The invention provides wind energy use. One application provides wind energy use for water harvesting from natural humid air. The method is based on changing thermodynamic state parameters of ambient wind air portions passed through a device comprising convergent-divergent and wing-like components. Those components transform the ambient wind portions into fast and cooled outflowing air portions. A decrease in static pressure and temperature triggers condensation of water-vapor into water-aerosols. Another application of the method provides an effective mechanism for harvesting electrical energy from naturally warm air using renewable wind energy, including the wind inertia, internal heat, and potential energy stored in the air mass in the Earth's gravitational field. The electrical energy harvesting mechanism is also applicable to use of natural renewable energy of streaming water.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2011Date of Patent: September 18, 2012Inventor: Yuri Abramov
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Patent number: 8261565Abstract: A cooling system for transferring heat from a heat load to an environment has a volatile working fluid. The cooling system includes first and second cooling cycles that are thermally connected to the first cooling cycle. The first cooling cycle is not a vapor compression cycle and includes a pump, an air-to-fluid heat exchanger, and a fluid-to-fluid heat exchanger. The second cooling cycle can include a chilled water system for transferring heat from the fluid-to-fluid heat exchanger to the environment. Alternatively, the second cooling cycle can include a vapor compression system for transferring heat from the fluid-to-fluid heat exchanger to the environment.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2004Date of Patent: September 11, 2012Assignee: Liebert CorporationInventors: Steven A Borror, Franklin E DiPaolo, Thomas E Harvey, Steven M Madara, Reasey J Mam, Stephen C Sillato
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Publication number: 20120222439Abstract: A system control to monitor and control the operation of an air conditioning system including at least one evaporator/air handler unit operatively coupled to a compressor/condenser unit comprising a sensor to monitor the operation of the evaporator and to generate a control signal when a predetermined condition within the air conditioning system is sensed and a control unit including logic or circuitry to receive the condensate signal and to deactivate the evaporator/air handler unit and the compressor/condenser unit in response to the control signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 9, 2012Publication date: September 6, 2012Inventor: Carlos M. Pena
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Patent number: 8256236Abstract: According to certain embodiments disclosed in the present application, a climate controlled seating assembly includes a thermal module. The thermal module comprises at least one inlet channel, at least one outlet channel and a thermoelectric device (e.g., Peltier circuit) positioned upstream of the outlet channel. In one embodiment, the seating assembly includes a sensor positioned within an interior of the thermal module and configured to detect the presence of a liquid, such as water, condensation or other fluids, on or near said sensor. In certain arrangements, the sensor is configured to detect the presence of a liquid by measuring an electrical resistance or capacitance across a portion of the sensor. A climate control system can include a separator gasket located within a housing of a fluid module and at least partially between the cold passage and the hot passage. In some embodiments, the separator gasket comprises one or more wicking materials.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2009Date of Patent: September 4, 2012Assignee: Gentherm IncorporatedInventor: John Lofy
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Patent number: 8250873Abstract: System and methods for providing anti-condensation system are disclosed. A relative humidity (RH) sensor signal from a sensor on or near a control surface is received. An AC power input is received. A phase of the AC power input is modulated at least partly in response to the sensor signal in such a manner that a phase-modulated AC power output provided to a heater is a) substantially constant at a first power level (P1st) in a low RH region ranging from 0% RH to a first RH (RH1), b) varying as a function of the sensor signal from P1st to a second power level (P2nd) in an intermediate RH region ranging from RH1 to a second RH (RH2), and c) substantially constant at P2nd in a high RH region beginning at RH2.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2008Date of Patent: August 28, 2012Assignee: Anthony, Inc.Inventors: Doo Eui Yoon, Paul Artwohl
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Patent number: 8221514Abstract: The invention provides an ecologically clean method and apparatus for water harvesting from air. The method is based on changing of thermodynamic state properties of air wind getting a rotation and passing through convergent-divergent nozzles. The apparatus is a water condensation engine exposed to humid wind. The constructive solution has no moving solid parts, and the incoming wind is an inherent moving component of the engine. It comprises a cascade of sequentially arranged horn-tubes and a set of stationary wing-like details. Those horn-tubes transform the wind into a fast and cooled out-flowing air flux coming-and-hitting upon the set of wing-like details, where the air portions are accelerated and eddying. The inner static pressure and temperature decrease in the air portions. The decrease in static pressure and temperature triggers off condensation of water-vapors into water-aerosols.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2010Date of Patent: July 17, 2012Assignee: Yuri AbramovInventor: Yuri Abramov
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Patent number: 8219249Abstract: Controllers for controlling heating, ventilating, air conditioning, and cooling (HVAC) systems are provided. The controllers include graphical user interfaces for user adjustment of system settings. The controllers also include communication interfaces for receiving climate data. In certain embodiments, the controllers govern operation of the HVAC systems based at least in part on the climate data. Further, the controllers may display information and alerts related to the climate data. The controllers also may govern operation of air treatment devices within the HVAC systems.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2009Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology CompanyInventors: Gregory Ralph Harrod, Bradley A. Beers, Grant E. Carmichael, Jedidiah O. Bentz
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Patent number: 8209993Abstract: A method of providing cooled air to electronic equipment includes capturing heated air from a volume containing electronic equipment, cooling the heated air by more than fifteen degrees Celsius in an air-to-water heat exchanger, and supplying cooling water to the air-to-water heat exchanger at a temperature above a dew point temperature of the heated air.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2007Date of Patent: July 3, 2012Assignee: Exaflop LLCInventors: Andrew Carlson, William Whitted, Jimmy Clidaras, William Hamburgen, Gerald Aigner, Donald L. Beaty