Abstract: System and method provide wireless distributed lighting control systems implementing a secure peer-to-peer, self-organizing and self-healing mesh network of actuators and system inputs. The system and method can be designed specifically for indoor and outdoor lighting where actuators include in-fixture, on-fixture and circuit control modules with ON/OFF and full range dimming capabilities, and system inputs include occupancy/vacancy sensors, daylight sensors and switches. A unique messaging protocol facilitates wireless and wired communication between actuators and system inputs, and provides web-based commissioning and monitoring of the lighting control system using a wireless access point accessible from a local network or Internet which can provide an intuitive and easy to use Graphical User Interface (GUI).

Abstract: A relatively level fuel grate surface angle cooperates with multiple feed screws that press solid fuel material into and across the grate surface to continually clear off the grate. Air spaces between each pair of adjacent grate elements for under fire air each have a ninety degree deflector flange at the top of the air space extending from one grate element across the air space and up and over an adjacent grate element to deflect under fire airflow across the adjacent grate element to act as a grate sweeper. The smooth curved surface of the deflector flange between grate elements facilitates movement of the fuel and ash material and prevents from one grate element to the next and prevents clogging of the airflow space.

Abstract: A control sequencing system for a biomass fuel gasification furnace utilizes control vector separation and isolation. The three vector system provides clean operation and fuel efficiency. A wide variety of solid fuel may be used of various fuel values, moisture content, and fuel particle size. The independent control vectors are separated into fan speed, fuel pile level maintenance, and oxygen content maintenance.

Abstract: A sloping fuel grate allows primary air to flow up into a thick biomass fuel bed in a gasifier producing combustible gases. Fuel feed screws keep the fuel bed at a nearly constant height in response to a level indicator. A burner above the fuel bed admits swirling secondary air and combustible gases, burning the gases to produce a flame to heat a boiler or other heat applying device. A donut shaped collar in the burner prevents gases from leaking back into the burner. A programmable logic controller maintains the system at a desired optimum level of operation based on signals from oxygen, moisture, pressure, temperature and fuel bed height sensors. The controller sends signals to controls for primary air valves and dampers, fuel feeder, and an induced draft fan and optional combined primary and secondary air fan controlling the pressure and flow of air and gases for the system.

Abstract: A biomass fuel gasification chamber, blast tube, and heat exchange chamber are interconnected horizontally and subjected to negative drawing pressure by a large variable speed chimney fan. An auger with an air lock feeds biomass fuel automatically into the gasification chamber. Fuel is moved across the gasification chamber on a partially serrated sloping grate. Three stages of fuel activity are created: anaerobic heating for pyrolysis, combustion, and incandescent charcoal oxydation for gasification. A variable speed fan, variable flue, and directional air duct and baffles control the stages with underfire air. A programmed auger in an airtight chamber removes ash automatically. In large systems a hydraulic moving wedge floor assists the fuel feeding auger and a moving sloping grate moves the fuel. A fan and long preheating duct with baffles and fins inside the gasification chamber preheat and direct air into a blast tube leading from the gasification chamber.