Abstract: A cooling method for an electronic device, comprising: naturally circulating a refrigerant between: an evaporator which vaporizes the refrigerant by heat exchange with exhaust hot air from the electronic device, and cools the exhaust hot air; and one of a cooling tower and a condenser which is placed at a position higher than the evaporator, and liquefies the vaporized refrigerant; and valve-controlling a flow rate of a refrigerant liquid to be supplied to the evaporator so that an air temperature after heat has been exchanged for cooling by the evaporator becomes a temperature suited to an operating environment of the electronic device, wherein one of a condensation temperature and a condensation pressure of a refrigerant gas in one of the cooling tower and the condenser do not fluctuate even when the flow rate of the refrigerant liquid to be supplied to the evaporator is valve-controlled.

Abstract: A hybrid heating apparatus heats potable water with waste heat from heat recovery units and insolation from solar collectors. A single circulation pump circulates fluid between at least one heat exchanger and each of the heat recovery units and preferably the solar collector. A single controller receives sensor readings from the heat recovery units and the solar collector units and receives a demand to heat the potable water. To satisfy the demand, the controller determines the extent to which the demand may be satisfied from heat available from the heat recovery units and the solar collector units and sends command signals both to the circulating pump to circulate the fluid and to appropriate ones of valves at connections to those heat recovery units and solar collector units to allow fluid to circulate to be heated to flow to the heat exchanger for effecting heat exchange to heat the potable water.

Abstract: An outdoor control unit includes a first control unit, a second control unit, and a switching unit. The outdoor control unit controls the rotational speed of an outdoor fan. The first control unit executes a first control for controlling the rotational speed of the outdoor fan based on the operation frequency of the compressor. The second control unit executes a second control for controlling the rotational speed of the outdoor fan based on a parameter other than the operation frequency of the compressor. The switching unit executes a switching control for switching between the first control and the second control according to a predetermined switching condition, when a cooling mode is being operated under a low outside air condition. The low outside air condition refers to a state that the outside air temperature is lower than a first temperature.

Abstract: A method for controlling one or more computer room air conditioning (CRAC) units configured to receive return air for energy efficient operation. In the method, the temperature of the air returned (Trat) into the one or more CRAC units is detected. It is determined whether the Trat is within a predetermined setpoint temperature range and at least one operation of the one or more CRAC units is reduced in response to the Trat being within the predetermined setpoint temperature range to thereby increase the efficiencies of the one or more CRAC units.

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to keep an appropriate high pressure side pressure in a refrigerant circuit while reducing noises of an operation of a blower in a refrigerating apparatus which obtains a critical pressure on a high pressure side. The refrigerating apparatus in which the refrigerant circuit is constituted of a compressor, a gas cooler, reducing means and an evaporator to obtain a supercritical pressure on the high pressure side comprises a blower which air-cools the gas cooler and a control device which controls this blower. This control device controls a revolution speed of the blower based on an outdoor temperature and an evaporation temperature of a refrigerant in the evaporator.

Abstract: A register assembly for augmenting the flow of conditioned air from a central air-conditioning unit to a room includes a fan, a temperature sensor, and a processing means. The fan is operably positioned for increasing air flow through the register assembly. The temperature sensor is for measuring a temperature of air in the register assembly and for outputting a measured temperature signal. The processing means is for: receiving the measured temperature signal; using the measured temperature signal in determining whether the central air-conditioning unit is providing conditioned air to the room; and activating the fan to augment the conditioned air flow if the central air-conditioning unit is providing conditioned air to the room. The processing means also provides drift compensation to prevent unwanted operation of the fan due to temperature drifts.

Abstract: A system comprises a condenser for a refrigeration system and a control module. The condenser has a plurality of variable speed condenser fans. The control module controls the plurality of variable speed condenser fans. The control module increases condenser fan operation by activating a deactivated variable speed condenser fan at a first fan speed when at least one variable speed condenser fan of the plurality is deactivated and by increasing a fan speed of an activated variable speed condenser fan to a second fan speed when each variable speed condenser fan of the plurality is activated and operating at the first fan speed. The second fan speed is faster than the first fan speed.

Abstract: A heat pump system includes a controller and a closed system that includes a condensing heat exchanger coil, an evaporating heat exchanger coil, a refrigerant and a compressor. The compressor is configured to compress the refrigerant, thereby causing the refrigerant to have a greater pressure in the condensing heat exchanger coil than in the evaporating heat exchanger coil. The controller is configured to perform a passive defrost of the evaporating heat exchanger coil. The passive defrost includes disabling the compressor and providing a bypass path between the condensing and evaporating heat exchanger coils that bypasses the compressor. The bypass path allows the refrigerant to flow from the condensing heat exchanger coil to the evaporating heat exchanger coil while the compressor is disabled.

Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention provides an air conditioning system (ACS) for conditioning the airstream entering an air-consuming machine, such as, but not limiting of, a gas turbine. Conditioning may be considered a process that adjusts at least one physical property of the airstream. The physical property may comprise: a wet-bulb temperature, a dry-bulb temperature, relative humidity, density, or the like. In an embodiment of the present invention, the major components of the ACS may be located in a single structure, which may be considered a module. Depending on the application of the ACS, multiple modules may be physically and/or operationally integrated on the air-consuming machine. An alternate embodiment of the ACS may comprise a module having multiples stages. Here, each stage may operate independently other stages. Furthermore, each stage may use a separate fluid from other stages.

Abstract: A refrigerator and control method thereof are provided. The refrigerator emits light into a storage compartment formed therein to improve and preserve taste of food items stored therein. The refrigerator may include a light emitting unit to emit light into the storage compartment and onto the food items stored therein to improve and preserve taste of the food items.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of cooling a metal strip traveling through a cooling section in a continuous heat treatment line. In accordance with the invention, the method consists in projecting a refrigerant medium into the cooling section (4) onto the surface of the strip (1) to be cooled, the medium being constituted for the most part by a phase-change substance that passes into the gaseous phase at a temperature that is lower than the temperature of the strip (1) and without oxidizing said strip so that energy is exchanged within an endothermic process by a change in the phase of said phase-change substance.

Abstract: A constant temperature liquid bath using a thermo-module in which even if an article whose temperature is to be controlled exists in the bath, the temperature of the liquid is efficiently adjusted to a constant value. The liquid bath includes an outer bath storing the liquid, an inner bath disposed in the outer bath through a gap, and including holes in its sidewall through which the liquid flows into the inner bath from the outer bath and an opening at a central portion of its bottom, and an agitator that causes the liquid to flow upward from the opening of the bottom of the inner bath between sidewalls of the inner and outer baths by a rotor blade disposed on a central portion of a bottom between the outer bath and the inner bath. The thermo-module is mounted on an outer surface of the sidewall of the outer bath.

Abstract: A temperature regulation method and system (100) includes a reservoir (112) having a fluid with a temperature of a value such that, within a control range of a local temperature controller, a local set point temperature is achievable. A piping system (101) delivers the fluid from the reservoir to one or more elements needing temperature control. A heat generator/removal device (110) in one of the fluid paths is disposed at or near an element needing temperature control. For each heat generator/removal device, a local temperature controller (116) and a feedback sensor (114) are configured to control the heat generator/removal device such that an amount of heat exchanged with the fluid, at or near the element needing temperature control, results in a local temperature, monitored by the control feedback sensor to be locally and accurately maintained at the local set point temperature.

Abstract: A control device for a thermo-electric device having a heat source side and a heat sink side. The control device has a detector for detecting a temperature difference between the heat source side and the heat sink side. The detector modulates a current for providing an optimal current to the thermo-electric device.

Abstract: An improved chill water system for use with a hot box is discussed. In processing beef preferably a recirculation loop with a chill water system mixes anti-microbial solution in the chill water tank and adjusts concentration with a controller to add chemical treatment to the tank. Additionally, a supply water line to the chill water tank has a flow sensor linked to a controller which can control addition of treatment agent based on input water from the supply source.

Abstract: A method for controlling one or more computer room air conditioning (CRAC) units for energy efficient operation, in which, the temperature of the air returned (Trat) into the one or more CRAC units and the temperature of the air supplied (Tsat) by the one or more CRAC units is detected. The caloric heat transfer level (Q) is calculated based upon the Trat and the Tsat and it is determined whether the Q is within a predetermined setpoint caloric heat transfer range. In addition, at least one operation of the one or more CRAC units is reduced in response to the Q being within the predetermined setpoint caloric heat transfer range to thereby increase the efficiencies of the one or more CRAC units.

Abstract: A control system for a refrigerator ice/water dispenser includes an actuation switch, at least one drive unit for releasing either ice or water, a motor activation relay that controls operation of the drive unit, and a power system having multiple power supplies for operating the control system, motor activation relay and drive unit(s). Preferably, the dispenser includes multiple actuation switches, e.g. a water activation switch and a water/ice activation switch, each having an associated activation relay for independently controlling the release of water and/or ice respectively. Current for initiating the drive unit activation relays must pass through a corresponding actuation switch in order to prevent unintended release of water and/or ice. Multiple processor circuits are preferably employed, with one processor circuit relaying to another processor circuit to enable drive unit activation.

Abstract: An audio-visual support and cooling system to maintain A/V equipment at a desired condition. The system comprises a housing unit configured to support at least one unit of A/V equipment. The housing includes a refrigerant inlet, a refrigerant outlet, and a plurality of structural elements configured to define a configuration of the housing, wherein at least one structural element of the plurality of structural elements includes a refrigerant path configured to direct a refrigerant through the at least one structural element between the refrigerant inlet and the refrigerant outlet. Other embodiments and methods are disclosed.

Abstract: An outdoor control unit includes a first control unit, a second control unit, and a switching unit. The outdoor control unit controls the rotational speed of an outdoor fan. The first control unit executes a first control for controlling the rotational speed of the outdoor fan based on the operation frequency of the compressor. The second control unit executes a second control for controlling the rotational speed of the outdoor fan based on a parameter other than the operation frequency of the compressor. The switching unit executes a switching control for switching between the first control and the second control according to a predetermined switching condition, when a cooling mode is being operated under a low outside air condition. The low outside air condition refers to a state that the outside air temperature is lower than a first temperature.

Abstract: A refrigerator has a refrigerating cycle sequentially connecting a compressor, a condenser, a drawing mechanism, and evaporator, an accumulator, an inlet temperature sensor and an outlet temperature sensor for detecting the temperatures of the inlet and outlet of the evaporator, and a cooling fan for cooling the compressor. When the difference between the temperature detected by the inlet temperature sensor and the temperature detected by the outlet temperature sensor is a predetermined value or more, the cooling fan is stopped.

Abstract: A refrigerator with at least one openable door has a hinge at a pivoting edge of the door allowing the door to open about the pivoting edge. A water dispenser, positioned on the door, has a paddle which is moved horizontally by a user to cause water to be dispensed. The paddle engages a toggle that is attached to the dispenser housing, causing the toggle to rotate into engagement with a microswitch. The microswitch is mounted on a user interface control board which communicates with a power supply electronic control board. The power supply control board operates a water dispenser solenoid valve to cause water to flow to the dispenser when the toggle engages the microswitch. An endcap is secured to an edge of the door adjacent to the pivoting edge. A first conduit extends from the water dispenser to an end within the endcap. A second conduit extends from within the cabinet to an end exterior of the cabinet and within the endcap. An end connector is provided to receive the ends of the first and second conduits.

Abstract: A cooling system for a building includes a glass structure unit having a frame and two spaced-apart inner and outer glass panels mounted on the frame. The frame and the glass panels cooperatively confine a fluidtight receiving space. A coolant fills the receiving space. A temperature-responsive flow control valve is connected to the glass structure unit, is connected fluidly to the receiving space, and has a valve casing, a valve member disposed in the valve casing, and a temperature sensor attached to the valve casing to activate the valve member to open when the temperature sensor detects that the glass structure unit has a temperature increased to a preset temperature, so that the coolant flows out from the fluidtight receiving space for replenishment of the coolant therein.

Abstract: In a conditioning system for a manufacturing machine, in particular a machine tool, a machine tool framework is arranged inside a sealed casing. Ducts are arranged at machine tool regions to be thermally conditioned. The ducts comprise air flow outlets and are coupled to a conditioned air delivery manifold supplied by a conditioning device. Solenoid valves are provided at the outlets to control air flow.

Abstract: An air conditioner is disclosed to supply a room with oxygen as well as control temperature and humidity of the air. The present invention includes an outdoor module 10, an indoor module 20, a refrigerant tube 30, and an oxygen generating module. The oxygen generating module includes an oxygen generator 100 installed at the outdoor module 10 so as to generate oxygen by in-taking outdoor air, an oxygen exhauster 200 installed in the indoor module 20 so as to exhaust the oxygen, and an oxygen transport tube 300 transporting the oxygen generated from the oxygen generator 100 to the oxygen exhauster 200.

Abstract: A method for controlling one or more computer room air conditioning (CRAC) units for energy efficient operation, in which, the temperature of the air returned (Trat) into the one or more CRAC units and the temperature of the air supplied (Tsat) by the one or more CRAC units is detected. The caloric heat transfer level (Q) is calculated based upon the Trat and the Tsat and it is determined whether the Q is within a predetermined setpoint caloric heat transfer range. In addition, at least one operation of the one or more CRAC units is reduced in response to the Q being within the predetermined setpoint caloric heat transfer range to thereby increase the efficiencies of the one or more CRAC units.

Abstract: An apparatus for maximum work comprising central equipment comprising a refrigeration machine, a water heater, an evaporative cooler and hot and cold storage tanks. Airside equipment for providing supply air to a room or zone. A hot supply/return pipe, a cold supply pipe, and a cold return pipe. A water blending circuit comprising a hot supply runout pipe extending from the hot supply/return pipe and a cold supply runout pipe extending from the cold supply pipe, wherein the water blending circuit further comprises an upstream two position three way changeover valve comprising a first port, a second port, and a third port. The hot supply runout pipe connects to first port and the cold supply runout pipe connects to the second port. A modulating three way zone blending valve connected to the third port of the upstream two position three way valve, and a blending pump for pumping water through a roomside coil, so that return water exits the coil through a return pipe.

Abstract: An automated cold storage apparatus, and related method thereof, provides a sample process management system that is a revolutionary approach to the storage and retrieval regarding critical samples. The system—a significant technological breakthrough in laboratory automation—is the first ultra low temperature robotic system capable of being validated. Samples in containers are stored and retrieved robotically through an airlock climate-control chamber that is automatically dehumidified by a dry gas purge, such as a carbon dioxide or nitrogen purge or the like. This purge rapidly reduces ambient humidity to a desirable relative humidity (RH), e.g., less than about 15% RH, virtually eliminating the accumulation of frost. Microplates are systematically identified using barcode technology, for example. Once through the climate-controlled chamber, the containers (i.e., samples) are robotically transferred to the rotary mechanism.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for extracting filtered potable drinking water from air through the use of a refrigeration system (10-10R) including a compressor (12), evaporator (39), fan (56) condenser (30), and a reservoir system (14-14D) may be provided as an indoor unit (10-10F), window or wall mounted unit (10G-10J), or a portable or mobile indoor/outdoor unit (10M-10L), and may be integrated with an existing air conditioning system (10K, 10L) and/or a conventional refrigerator (10J-10L), or mounted in a vehicle (10R). The apparatus may also function as a dehumidifier, an air purifier, or a heat pump for cooling or heating air. In some embodiments the compressor, condenser, and water dispenser are remote from the housing. Collected water may be cooled by a secondary evaporator (44) and heated by a secondary condenser (35) or strip heater (13B). The secondary condenser and secondary evaporator may be connected with a secondary compressor (12A) to isolate the system for cooling water from that of condensing the air.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for use in maintaining a temperature in a vehicle or a shipping container. The device includes a roller having a sheet attached to the roller. One end of the sheet is connected to the roller and the sheet can be rolled around the roller and unrolled from the roller. The sheet has a size such that the sheet can extend substantially transversely across the cargo area of the vehicle or shipping container when the device is mounted on the vehicle or shipping container and the sheet is unrolled from the roller. The device allows for a user to simply unroll the unattached end of the sheet from the roller when the user needs to load or unload goods in the cargo area of the vehicle or shipping container in which the device is mounted.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for use in maintaining a temperature in a vehicle or a shipping container. The device includes a roller having a sheet attached to the roller. One end of the sheet is connected to the roller and the sheet can be rolled around the roller and unrolled from the roller. The sheet has a size such that the sheet can extend substantially transversely across the cargo area of the vehicle or shipping container when the device is mounted on the vehicle or shipping container and the sheet is unrolled from the roller. The device allows for a user to simply unroll the unattached end of the sheet from the roller when the user needs to load or unload goods in the cargo area of the vehicle or shipping container in which the device is mounted.

Abstract: Provided are an air conditioning plant control method by which an air conditioning plant can be operated in a most desirable state, and an air conditioning plant so controlled. An air conditioning plant is controlled, which has at least one air conditioner, a refrigerating machine supplying cold water to the air conditioner and a cooling tower supplying cooling water to the refrigerating machine. Within an extent satisfying set conditions of air conditioning, setpoints of the draft temperature of the at least one air conditioner, the cold water temperature of the refrigerating machine and the temperature of cooling water from the cooling tower are altered and optimized so as to minimize energy consumption, operating cost or carbon dioxide emission of the air conditioning plant.

Abstract: A supply canister is partially filled with a refrigerant circuit additive liquid and is partially evacuated. Additive liquid from the canister may be placed into the refrigerant circuit of an air conditioning system by (1) connecting the canister to the circuit after it has been emptied and a vacuum pressure created therein, (2) connecting the canister to the refrigerant circuit suction line during system operation, or (3) connecting the canister to the suction line with the system off, to thereby force refrigerant from the circuit into the canister, and then starting the system to cause the vacuum pressure in the suction line to draw the contents of the canister into the refrigerant circuit.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for extracting filtered potable drinking water from air through the use of a refrigeration system (10-10R) including a compressor (12), evaporator (39), fan (56), condenser (30), and a reservoir system (14-14D) may be provided as an indoor unit (10-10F), window or wall mounted unit (10G-10J), or a portable or mobile indoor/outdoor unit (10M-10L), and may be integrated with an existing air conditioning system (10K, 10L) and/or a conventional refrigerator (10J-10L), or mounted in a vehicle (10R). The apparatus may also function as a dehumidifier, an air purifier, or a heat pump for cooling or heating air. In some embodiments the compressor, condenser, and water dispenser are remote from the housing. Collected water may be cooled by a secondary evaporator (44) and heated by a secondary condenser (35) or strip heater (13B).

Abstract: An automated cold storage apparatus, and related method thereof, provides a sample process management system that is a revolutionary approach to the storage and retrieval regarding critical samples. The system—a significant technological breakthrough in laboratory automation—is the first ultra low temperature robotic system capable of being validated. Samples in containers are stored and retrieved robotically through an airlock climate-control chamber that is automatically dehumidified by a dry gas purge, such as a carbon dioxide or nitrogen purge or the like. This purge rapidly reduces ambient humidity to a desirable relative humidity (RH), e.g., less than about 15% RH, virtually eliminating the accumulation of frost. Microplates are systematically identified using barcode technology, for example. Once through the climate-controlled chamber, the containers (i.e., samples) are robotically transferred to the rotary mechanism.

Abstract: A liquid dispenser and self-filling container system, including a liquid supply line, a liquid container, a liquid dispenser positioned to deliver a supply of liquid to the container from the liquid supply line, a valve positioned in the liquid supply line to selectively deliver liquid to the liquid dispenser, an optical sensor positioned relative to the liquid container to detect the presence of the container and a level of liquid in the container, and a control circuit connecting the optical sensor and the valve to open the valve when the sensor detects the presence of the container and a level of liquid below a maximum desired liquid level in the container and to close the valve when the sensor detects at least one of the absence of the container and a maximum desired liquid level in said container. Such a liquid dispenser may be a water dispenser in a refrigerator.

Abstract: Provided are an air conditioning plant control method by which an air conditioning plant can be operated in a most desirable state, and an air conditioning plant so controlled. An air conditioning plant is controlled, which has at least one air conditioner, a refrigerating machine supplying cold water to the air conditioner and a cooling tower supplying cooling water to the refrigerating machine. Within an extent satisfying set conditions of air conditioning, setpoints of the draft temperature of the at least one air conditioner, the cold water temperature of the refrigerating machine and the temperature of cooling water from the cooling tower are altered and optimized so as to minimize energy consumption, operating cost or carbon dioxide emission of the air conditioning plant.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for cooling a carbonated beverage stored in a container and dispensing non-foamed carbonated beverage. A method of cooling and delivering non-foamed beverage with the apparatus is also provided. The beverage is preferably beer. The apparatus comprises a housing that has a number of chambers. A chamber can optionally be provided for receiving a number of beer kegs. A pressurizing device is attached to a beer keg for maintaining the beer under pressure in the keg. A conduit is received in one of the chambers and communicates between the beer keg and a tap located on the exterior of the apparatus. A water and ice cooling mixture is circulated over the conduit in the same chamber for cooling the conduit. A perforated vessel surrounds the conduit to protect the conduit and the agitators from being damaged by ice particles. At least two agitators for circulating the cooling fluid over the conduit are located in chamber where the conduit is received.

Abstract: An automated cold storage apparatus, and related method thereof, provides a sample process management system that is a revolutionary approach to the storage and retrieval regarding critical samples. The system—a significant technological breakthrough in laboratory automation—is the first ultra low temperature robotic system capable of being validated. Samples in containers are stored and retrieved robotically through an airlock climate-control chamber that is automatically dehumidified by a dry gas purge, such as a carbon dioxide or nitrogen purge or the like. This purge rapidly reduces ambient humidity to a desirable relative humidity (RH), e.g., less than about 15% RH, virtually eliminating the accumulation of frost. Microplates are systematically identified using barcode technology, for example. Once through the climate-controlled chamber, the containers (i.e., samples) are robotically transferred to the rotary mechanism.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for regulating a compressor installation with at least one compressor element (6) driven by a motor and, in the pressure conduit (11) thereof, a dryer (2) of the type comprising a pressure vessel (24) with a drying zone (3) and a regeneration zone (4), and a rotor (25) continuously rotated in this pressure vessel (24) by a motor (33), which rotor is filled with a regenerable drying agent. A portion of the compressed air is supplied, by means of a branch (15), to the regeneration zone (4) and, after cooling down and separation of the condensed water, is fed back to the pressure conduit (11). The speed of both motors (9, 33) is regulated by a regulation device (13) in function of the pressure in the pressure conduit (11).

Abstract: An automated cold storage apparatus, and related method thereof, provides a sample process management system that is a revolutionary approach to the storage and retrieval regarding critical samples. The system—a significant technological breakthrough in laboratory automation—is the first ultra low temperature robotic system capable of being validated. Samples in containers are stored and retrieved robotically through an airlock climate-control chamber that is automatically dehumidified by a dry gas purge, such as a carbon dioxide or nitrogen purge or the like. This purge rapidly reduces ambient humidity to a desirable relative humidity (RH), e.g., less than about 15% RH, virtually eliminating the accumulation of frost. Microplates are systematically identified using barcode technology, for example. Once through the climate-controlled chamber, the containers (i.e., samples) are robotically transferred to the rotary mechanism.

Abstract: An automated cold storage apparatus, and related method thereof, provides a sample process management system that is a revolutionary approach to the storage and retrieval regarding critical samples. The system—a significant technological breakthrough in laboratory automation—is the first ultra low temperature robotic system capable of being validated. Samples in containers are stored and retrieved robotically through an airlock climate-control chamber that is automatically dehumidified by a dry gas purge, such as a carbon dioxide or nitrogen purge or the like. This purge rapidly reduces ambient humidity to a desirable relative humidity (RH), e.g., less than about 15% RH, virtually eliminating the accumulation of frost. Microplates are systematically identified using barcode technology, for example. Once through the climate-controlled chamber, the containers (i.e., samples) are robotically transferred to the rotary mechanism.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for using a cryogen for cooling articles, particularly having applications for chilling extrusions, food, and similar articles, utilizing dispersion of liquid cryogen into a feed chamber wherein it is substantially vaporized and then circulated through a cooling chamber containing the article to be cooled. A circulation device can circulate the vaporized cryogen through the cooling chamber, or through the article, at a variably controllable velocity to enhance the cooling efficiency using the principle of forced air convection and to provide improved temperature control in the system.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining when a replaceable filter for a refrigerator needs replacing based on the volume of water passing through the water filter as determined by the product of the time that water has passed through the filter and the flow rate of an accessory being supplied the filtered water.

Abstract: A system for retarding food spoilage in a refrigerator, comprising an ultraviolet light mounted within the refrigerator, which is turned on for at least a predetermined time only after the refrigerator door is shut, to bathe foodstuffs in at least a portion of the refrigerator with UV light for a sufficient time to kill at least some of the organisms on the foodstuffs.

Abstract: The present invention comprises an ice harvest system for use in an ice maker. The ice maker herein includes a refrigeration system for cooling of an evaporator. Ice is formed thereon as water is pumped by a re-circulating pump to flow from a water distribution tube over the evaporator surface. Water that is not immediately frozen thereon flows into a water pan positioned there below. A pressure fitting is positioned in the pan at the bottom thereof and connected to a pneumatic tube. The pneumatic tube is connected to a pressure sensor located on a control board at a position remote from the water pan. Pressure is communicated through the tube to the pressure sensor as a function of the depth of the water in the pan. This pressure is converted by a microprocessor of the control board for interpretation as a water level in the pan. As the water level in the tray lowers due to the formation of ice, the pressure transmitted to the pressure sensor reduces from a predetermined high or full water level.

Abstract: An automated cold storage apparatus, and related method thereof, provides a sample process management system that is a revolutionary approach to the storage and retrieval regarding critical samples. The system—a significant technological breakthrough in laboratory automation—is the first ultra low temperature robotic system capable of being validated. Samples in containers are stored and retrieved robotically through an airlock climate-control chamber that is automatically dehumidified by a dry gas purge, such as a carbon dioxide or nitrogen purge or the like. This purge rapidly reduces ambient humidity to a desirable relative humidity (RH), e.g., less than about 15% RH, virtually eliminating the accumulation of frost. Microplates are systematically identified using barcode technology, for example. Once through the climate-controlled chamber, the containers (i.e., samples) are robotically transferred to the rotary mechanism.

Abstract: An automated cold storage apparatus, and related method thereof, provides a sample process management system that is a revolutionary approach to the storage and retrieval regarding critical samples. The system—a significant technological breakthrough in laboratory automation—is the first ultra low temperature robotic system capable of being validated. Samples in containers are stored and retrieved robotically through an airlock climate-control chamber that is automatically dehumidified by a dry gas purge, such as a carbon dioxide or nitrogen purge or the like. This purge rapidly reduces ambient humidity to a desirable relative humidity (RH), e.g., less than about 15% RH, virtually eliminating the accumulation of frost. Microplates are systematically identified using barcode technology, for example. Once through the climate-controlled chamber, the containers (i.e., samples) are robotically transferred to the rotary mechanism.

Abstract: The present invention comprises an ice harvest system for use in an ice maker. The ice maker herein includes a refrigeration system for cooling of an evaporator. Ice is formed thereon as water is pumped by a re-circulating pump to flow from a water distribution tube over the evaporator surface. Water that is not immediately frozen thereon flows into a water pan positioned there below. A pressure fitting is positioned in the pan at the bottom thereof and connected to a pneumatic tube. The pneumatic tube is connected to a pressure sensor located on a control board at a position remote from the water pan. Pressure is communicated through the tube to the pressure sensor as a function of the depth of the water in the pan. This pressure is converted by a microprocessor of the control board for interpretation as a water level in the pan. As the water level in the tray lowers due to the formation of ice, the pressure transmitted to the pressure sensor reduces from a predetermined high or full water level.

Abstract: An apparatus providing effective control of fluid temperature to achieve temperature control precision of ±0.1° F. at flow rates exceeding 5 gallons/minute includes a hot and a cold reservoir of process fluid maintained at their desired temperatures by a high-accuracy industrial chiller and an industrial heater, respectively. A three-way control valve mixes fluid from the reservoirs to produce a precisely controlled stream of process fluid delivered to the point of usage. Another flow control valve maintains system flow at a precise value.

Abstract: A method for controlling one or more computer room air conditioning (CRAC) units for energy efficient operation, in which, the temperature of the air returned (Trat) into the one or more CRAC units and the temperature of the air supplied (Tsat) by the one or more CRAC units is detected. The caloric heat transfer level (Q) is calculated based upon the Trat and the Tsat and it is determined whether the Q is within a predetermined setpoint caloric heat transfer range. In addition, at least one operation of the one or more CRAC units is reduced in response to the Q being within the predetermined setpoint caloric heat transfer range to thereby increase the efficiencies of the one or more CRAC units.