Abstract: The invention is an elongated radiant electrical heater. An elongated parabolic shaped reflector has mounted at its focal point a ribbon heater. A thermal insulation material is mounted on the side of the ribbon heater opposite from the side of the focus where the reflector is positioned. The radiant ribbon heater is deeply corrugated with the height of each corrugation being a multiple of two to three times the width of each corrugation whereby the deep corrugations not only provide mechanical strength, but also increase effective emission per unit area of the radiant heating element.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a radiant heat ceiling panel which operates at low temperature and transmits heat directly by radiation. The basic panel structure consists of a fibrous heating element covered on both sides with polyester sheets and backed by a rigid fiberglass backing and faced with a decorative layer which serves as the heat radiating surface. Most of the elements of the heating panel are made of materials or nearly equal coefficients of expansion. The complete panel is mounted in a frame with an edge raised above the surface of the decorative layer.

Abstract: Disclosed is a passive, fast-response thermocouple probe for accurately measuring temperatures of fixed or moving areas of surfaces, particularly of lightweight, low-thermal-conductivity materials, with only a minimal modification of their temperatures being caused by the probe's contact therewith. In making the probe, an approximation of the areal heat capacity of the object, the surface temperature of which is to be obtained, is determined. This information is then utilized to determine the required thickness, density, specific heat, and thermal conductivity of the layer of insulating material which is mounted on the mounting block of the probe. A thin, low-areal-heat capacity thermocouple is positioned on the upper surface of the insulating layer, and a thin, low-areal-heat capacity cover film is mounted over the foregoing elements and extends partially down the sides of the mounting block.

Abstract: A flat ribbon-type heater is subjected to convection loss of heat when air moves across the ribbon heater. This convection loss is minimized by providing a wall structure on either side of the ribbon heater. The wall height to ribbon width must be controlled to maximize the output of radiant energy output and minimized convection loss. Maximum efficiency occurs when the wall height(h) is equal to one half the width(w) of the ribbon heater.Baffles may be placed along the length of the ribbon heater to minimize air current flow along the ribbon heater.

Abstract: A method is provided for determining the heat energy lost by air infiltration through electrical outlets. A film is used to measure air flow through the outlet. Air flow is cross indexed with a climatic factor determined from a geographic chart to arrive at an energy loss figure.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for ready measurement of total hemispherical emissivity of a surface under ambient conditions, in situ. The apparatus, which may be readily made portable, comprises a heat sink to which is laminated a metal foil heater enclosed in a thermal insulating film. A black coating of known emissivity is applied to the exposed surface of the film and a fast-responding heat flux sensor is attached thereto. This apparatus is spaced a predetermined distance from a test surface and the enclosed air space is surrounded by a reflective skirt. A power source, such as a battery, powers the heater with a fixed current, and a suitable voltmeter is driven by the heat sensor. The method of measurement comprises equalizing the temperature of heat sink and test surface, energizing the heater and noting the steady state value of the voltage provided by the heat sensor.

Abstract: A punch press is utilized for rapidly embossing ceiling tile. The embossing plate in the press is backed up with a high output heater to assist in the embossing operation.