Thermo-electric Patents (Class 137/66)
  • Patent number: 11937401
    Abstract: An electronic rack includes a rack manifold to be coupled to an external cooling fluid source, including a supply rack manifold and a return rack manifold, wherein the rack manifold includes a plurality of pairs of rack connectors disposed thereon. The electronic rack further includes a server chassis including a connector holder having a pair of a supply server connector and a return server connector to be connected with a corresponding pair of rack connectors of the rack manifold. The electronic rack further includes a controller, in response to detecting a leakage of the cooling fluid, configured to cause the supply server connector to disconnect from the supply rack manifold, while maintaining the return server connector connected with the return rack manifold, and to increase a flowrate of the cooling fluid on the return rack manifold to remove the cooling fluid residing within the server chassis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2024
    Assignee: BAIDU USA LLC
    Inventor: Tianyi Gao
  • Patent number: 11690200
    Abstract: A server liquid cooling fluid cutoff system including a server connector module, a leaking sensor, and an electromagnet device is proposed in the current application. In one embodiment, a server connector module is to be mounted on a server chassis, and the server connector module has at least a pair of server blind mating connectors capable of being engaged with or disengaged from at least a pair of rack blind mating connectors of a rack manifold of the electronic rack coupled to an external cooling fluid source. In an embodiment, a leaking sensor is configured to detect leakage of the cooling fluid within the server chassis. In an embodiment, an electromagnet device is coupled to the server connector module and the leaking sensor. In an embodiment, an elastic structure is coupled to the connector module for pushing the connector away.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2023
    Assignee: BAIDU USA LLC
    Inventor: Tianyi Gao
  • Patent number: 11501904
    Abstract: Valve (1) for fluids, preferably for gases, comprising an inlet passage (2) for a fluid; an outlet passage (3) for the fluid; a shutter (4) interposed between the inlet passage (2) and the outlet passage (3) and movable along a movement direction (L) between an open position and a closed position; first magnetic attraction means (5) operatively active on the shutter (4) for attracting and/or keeping the shutter (4) itself towards the open position; a box-shaped body (7) containing the first magnetic attraction means (5) and extending along the movement direction (L) between an outer face and an inner face with respect to an inner volume (V) of the valve (1) interposed between the inlet passage (2) and the outlet passage (3). The box-shaped body (7) further comprises a dividing wall (10) for isolating the first magnetic attraction means (5) from the inner volume (V).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2022
    Assignee: Giordano Controls S.p.A.
    Inventors: Bruno Giordano, Morgan Giraldo
  • Patent number: 11466853
    Abstract: Apparatus to deliver gas having a delivery pipe that extends from an entrance end to a gas delivery end along which there are, one after the other, an entrance component, a pressure regulator and a flow rate regulator coordinated with respect to each other to supply on each occasion the desired quantity of gas to a burner of an apparatus fed by gas, or by a mixture of air/gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2022
    Assignee: SIT S.P.A.
    Inventors: Luca Mastellari, Lorenzo Zulian, Filiberto Rimondo
  • Patent number: 11447360
    Abstract: An apparatus for producing printed products such as books, magazines, brochures, catalogues or the like comprises several connected devices for the processing of printed sheets. The printed sheets are admitted with blast air via at least one air supply in order to change or maintain their position. At least two of the connected devices are respectively provided with at least one blower for generating blast air. The blast air can be used in the respective device. The blowers are connected to a control unit of the apparatus so that the blast air generated by the blowers can be controlled as needed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2022
    Assignee: MUELLER MARTINI HOLDING AG
    Inventors: Martin Thurnherr, Pascal Erni
  • Patent number: 11421799
    Abstract: A position transfer device is configured for use on a control valve. These configurations may convert a linear position of a closure member on the control valve to an angular position of magnets. A sensor in proximity to the magnets can generate a signal in response to the angular position. In one implementation, a valve positioner or controller can process the signal to identify the position of the closure member relative to a seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2022
    Assignee: Dresser, LLC
    Inventors: Justin Walter Betley, John Gregory Canning
  • Patent number: 11175037
    Abstract: A multi-outlet channel combination gas valve includes a valve body, a solenoid valve and a flow regulating mechanism. The valve body has a multiple of air outlets, at least two outlet channels formed between each air outlet and an air inlet of the valve body, a regulating port disposed in the at least two outlet channels, and the flow regulating mechanism can regulate the gas flow passing through each regulating port of the valve body at the same time, and a solenoid valve with a dual-coil electromagnet structure. When the valve is opened, a relatively larger current is passed, and then a very small current will be provided thereafter to maintain an operation by low power consumption. Therefore, this gas valve can be used without a mains power, and a low-level regulating structure is provided for presetting a low-level flow of each air outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2021
    Assignee: Ningbo Richen Electrical Appliance Co., LTD
    Inventor: Yin Zhou
  • Patent number: 11125443
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for a manual gas valve. The manual gas valve may include at least one internal spring and a valve plug. The internal spring may be independent from an external spring and a valve stem. The internal spring may be positioned in a constant installed height. The internal spring includes a constant spring force applied to the valve plug. The one or more manual gas valves may be used in a variety of applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2021
    Assignee: MIDEA GROUP CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Richard W. Cowan
  • Patent number: 10495308
    Abstract: Gas safety valve that includes a body having an inlet conduit and an outlet conduit. The body includes a housing in which a magnetic group is at least partially disposed. The magnetic group configured to regulate the opening or closing of a gas passage between the inlet conduit to the outlet conduit. The magnetic group includes an electromagnet, a support of the electromagnet and a bushing coupled to the support. The safety valve includes fixing means for fixing the bushing and the magnetic group to the body. The fixing means includes a fixing element having a cylindrical central part the free end of which is adapted to the geometry of the body retaining the fixing element against the body, and a flange extending radially towards the inside and retaining the bushing against the support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2019
    Assignee: ORKLI, S. COOP.
    Inventors: Marcos Pablo Curto, Andoni Unanue Imaz, Mikel Zuriarrain Berasategi
  • Patent number: 9945583
    Abstract: Gas flow controllers for use in gas fired apparatus including a pilot burner and a main burner are described. A controller includes a pilot valve moveable between a closed position and an open position to provide selective fluid communication between a gas inlet and the pilot burner, a main burner valve providing selective fluid communication between the gas inlet and the main burner, an actuator configured to open the pilot valve, a flow controller valve operable to open and close a fluid flow path between the gas inlet and a back side of the main burner valve upon actuation of the actuator, and a decoupling mechanism. The decoupling mechanism is configured to connect the actuator to the pilot valve and to selectively disconnect the actuator from the pilot valve when the actuator is actuated and a pressure differential across the pilot valve exceeds a threshold pressure limit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2018
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventors: James B. Prichard, Donald L. Blessing, Mark H. Stark
  • Patent number: 9939384
    Abstract: A low powered system for providing sufficient current to a fuel control mechanism drive. The system may have a fuel control mechanism pick circuit that has an energy storage mechanism for providing a large amount of current for a short time to the fuel control mechanism drive. A safety switch may be enabled with a special signal to let current flow to the fuel control mechanism drive to operate a corresponding fuel control mechanism for controlling fuel to a pilot light or heating element. The pilot light or heating element may provide heat to a thermoelectric source that generates electrical power from the heat. The electrical power may go to a single DC-to-DC converter and voltage clamp for providing a voltage source to a microcontroller and other circuits of the system. The pick circuit may prevent a harmful reverse flow of current from the storage mechanism to the thermoelectric source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Brent Chian, David Kucera, Trevor C. Haag, Timothy J. Nordberg, Adam Foley
  • Patent number: 9612037
    Abstract: Systems, circuits, and methods for providing operating power to a gas control circuit board are disclosed. A first power source for a gas control circuit board is derived from a utility supplied AC source while a backup supply is provided based on current flowing through an anode rod associated with the water heater as defined by Faraday's Law of Electrolysis. The backup supply based on anode current flow provided operating power for the gas control circuit in case of loss of power from the utility supplied AC source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2017
    Assignee: Haier US Appliance Solutions, Inc.
    Inventor: Brett Alan Farris
  • Patent number: 9581336
    Abstract: A thermostat for gas-powered cooking appliances includes a body having an inlet conduit and an outlet conduit that respectively receive and supply a gas flow, and a chamber in fluid communication both with the inlet conduit, and also with the outlet conduit either directly, through a main opening formed at one end thereof, or indirectly, through a secondary conduit formed in the body of the thermostat, which reaches the outlet conduit bypassing the main opening. A valve that adjusts gas flow rate is coaxially fitted in the chamber and has a position that is controlled by an expandable member of a thermostatic bulb of the thermostat. The valve is axially deformable beyond a predefined load threshold and compensates for dilations of the expandable member under a normal operating condition, absorbing axial forces exerted by the thermostat knob when rotated to switch off a burner driven by the thermostat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2017
    Assignee: DEFENDI ITALY S.R.L.
    Inventors: Davide Besati, Massimo Dugnani, Luca Pedretti, Mauro Tappa, Giuseppe Valzi
  • Patent number: 9573107
    Abstract: A process for operating a fuel fired reactor includes introducing fuel into the reactor and burning the fuel in the reactor by means of at least one main burner. Relevant parameters of the process are monitored. Within a predetermined critical operating range for an enforced shut down, a secondary, more stringent operating range is implemented as shut down criteria. The main burner is shut down upon one or more of the relevant parameters leaving the secondary operating range while at least one pilot burner continues to operate as long as the relevant parameters are maintained within the critical operating range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: OUTOTEC (FINLAND) OY
    Inventors: Bertold Stegemann, Pekka Hiltunen
  • Patent number: 9466845
    Abstract: A valve assembly for supplying gas, in particular for supplying air to a fuel cell, includes a valve assembly having at least two individually controllable valves, a common housing, in which the valves are accommodated, including a common inlet and at least one outlet for each valve, wherein the housing is formed of at least two housing parts, wherein the common inlet is formed in a first housing part, said inlet being coupled to one valve in each case, and wherein the valves are accommodated in a second housing part, wherein the two housing parts are sealed with respect to one another by means of assigned joining surfaces, wherein at least one valve seat for a valve is provided at the joining surface of the first housing part, said valve seat being closable with a sealing surface of the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2016
    Assignee: BORGWARNER ESSLINGEN GMBH
    Inventors: Bernd Bareis, Thy Nguyen, Sven Osswald
  • Patent number: 9435451
    Abstract: An electronic expansion valve includes a valve component for adjusting the flow of fluid. The valve component includes a valve body, a valve seat provided in the valve body, a valve needle able to open and close the valve seat, an actuating mechanism driving the axial movement of the valve needle and a drive mechanism supplying the actuating mechanism with motive power. The actuating mechanism includes a spindle able to move axially. The electronic expansion valve further includes an electromagnetic retaining mechanism for retaining the spindle. The valve is constructed such that when electricity is supplied to the electromagnetic retaining mechanism, the spindle is retained in a first axial position where the valve needle can adjust the opening degree of the valve seat; when the electricity to the electromagnetic retaining mechanism is cut, the spindle is released into a second axial position where the valve needle closes the valve seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2016
    Assignee: Emerson Climate Technologies (Suzhou) Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ke Shen, Jingxi Liu, Rongyao Han, Feixue Hu
  • Patent number: 9228746
    Abstract: A secondary safety circuit for a gas-fired device and method of operating the circuit. The secondary safety circuit includes a low-voltage direct current power source, a valve, and at least one sensor. The valve can be positioned in a pilot burner gas line. The secondary safety circuit ensures the valve is closed upon detecting an unsafe condition with the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2016
    Assignee: AOS HOLDING COMPANY
    Inventors: Dennis R. Hughes, Hyungsik Lee
  • Patent number: 9188283
    Abstract: A monitoring apparatus for monitoring the temperature of a body, the apparatus having a housing defining a volume of air exposed to the body, a temperature sensor being located within the volume of air at a position remote from the body whereby the temperature of the body can be determined. In one embodiment the housing defines a substantially vertically arranged flue exposed at its lower end to the body, the temperature sensor being located within the flue, at least one air inlet being provided in the flue positioned below the temperature sensor, at least one air outlet being provided in the flue positioned above the temperature sensor, whereby the body, when heated, may initiate a rising column of air within the flue due to convection when the temperature of the body is greater than the ambient temperature, the temperature sensor being exposed to said rising column of air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2015
    Inventor: Kenneth McFeeters
  • Patent number: 9188088
    Abstract: An actuating drive for an adjustable actuating element may include an actuator for producing drive forces. A toggle lever may be connected to the actuating element by a first toggle lever joint. A force transmission may connect the actuator to the toggle lever. An output-side output element may be mounted pivotably on a supporting housing section of the actuating drive. The toggle lever may be connected to the output element by a second toggle lever joint. A transverse support may be oriented transversely to a linear movement direction and configured to support at least one of the toggle lever and the actuating element on a guiding housing section of the actuating device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2015
    Assignee: Mahle International GmbH
    Inventors: Jochen Eggler, Gerd Kissner, Maximiliano Cicciarella, Robert Ragogna, Werner Schadler
  • Publication number: 20140120480
    Abstract: A compact thermoelectric safety actuator having a first body with a first cavity and a second body with a second cavity. The first and second bodies are connected so that the first and second cavities are arranged facing and open to one another. The first body has a gas outlet and the second body has a gas inlet in fluid communication with the gas outlet through the second cavity, An electromagnet of the actuator has a first end portion residing in the first cavity and a second end portion residing in the second cavity. A rotatable arm has a first end with a ferromagnetic frame adapted to engage the second portion of the electromagnet and a second end coupled to a sealing member, each of the tilting arm, ferromagnetic frame and sealing member are arranged in the second cavity. The first sealing member is configured to seat against a seating located on the first body when the arm is in a rest position, the first seating being located between the gas outlet and the second cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2012
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: ORKLI S.COOP.
    Inventors: Mikel Arizmendi Zurutuza, Marcos Pablo Curto
  • Patent number: 8695621
    Abstract: A gas safety device is provided. An electronic valve connected to a thermocouple is closed to cut off the gas supply when the temperature of radiant heat directly emitted from a surface of a vessel exceeds a preset temperature level while the vessel is heated through the spark ignition of a burner, thereby preventing risks of overheating and thus fire caused due to a user's carelessness when the user cooks the food.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: En Innovation Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Sung-Hyung Park
  • Patent number: 8550428
    Abstract: The rotary gas tap (1) with an electromagnetic safety valve (3), is of the conical regulation member (7) type, and the electromagnetic actuator (3a), being of a smaller power and size, is built entirely into a pipe housing (2a) in the body of the tap. The valve actuator (3a) is of the type where the seal member (9) is lifted by means of a DC voltage. The cylindrical magnetic frame (14) penetrating into the coil (15) is guided inside it, and a magnetic capsule (16) surrounding the coil is of a diameter Dh of around 14 mm, adjusted to that of the housing (8) in the body of the tap (2a). The stroke “R” of the seal member (9) corresponds to a gap (G) greater than 2.5 mm, reaching a sizeable passage opening “A” in the valve (9,10) necessary for a maximum inlet flow (Q) in the tap. At the same time the electromagnetic actuator (3a) is of low power, by means of a low reluctance in the magnetic circuit (13-16), although the diameter “Da” of the cylindrical frame is restricted to less than 4 mm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Mondragon Componentes, S. Coop
    Inventors: Francisco Javier Echenausía Saez de Zaitegui, Félix Querejeta Andueza, José Ignacio Múgica Odriozola
  • Patent number: 8479759
    Abstract: A device for controlling a combustible gas supply to a burner is provided, which includes first and second servovalves, having respective valve seats associated with a corresponding shut-off mechanism, which include respective first and second control solenoid valves with an electromagnetic operating device that controls the opening/closing of the corresponding servovalve. The solenoid valves act to indirectly control the corresponding servovalve's respective shut-off mechanism. The pipes of the control are in communication with the main pipe through an auxiliary bleed pipe. A pilot pipe is branched from the auxiliary pipe to supply a pilot burner, and a thermoelectric magnetic unit with a knob is provided on the auxiliary pipe, which allows gas to flow towards the pilot burner when the unit is activated, while simultaneously shutting off the flow of gas towards the servovalve control circuit. The device includes a control mechanism, controlled by the knob, which controls gas flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Sit La Precisa S.p.A. Con Socio Unico
    Inventors: Michele Benvenuto, Salvatore Pappalardo, Gianpiero Turrin
  • Patent number: 8371844
    Abstract: A control system for the ignition of a gas burner that includes an electromagnetic valve having a first coil and a second coil, the activation of the first and second coils controlling the flow of gas through the electromagnetic valve. An incandescent element which is designed to be heated until it reaches the gas combustion temperature of the gas delivered to the burner is disposed electrically in series with the first coil, the incandescent element and first coil forming a first branch that is electrically parallel to the second coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Coprecitec, S.L.
    Inventors: Félix Querejeta Andueza, Gonzalo José Fernández Llona, José Ignacio Múgica Odriozola, Francisco Javier Echenausia Saez de Zaitegui
  • Patent number: 8347907
    Abstract: An electrical connection device for a gas control valve. In one embodiment the device has a first electrical insulation member with an aperture extending between top and bottom surfaces and a second electrical insulation member having a top face and a bottom face and situated in the aperture of the first electrical insulation member so that the top face resides in the aperture and the bottom face resides outside the aperture. A joint member connects the first and second electrical insulation members. The device also includes first and second electrical terminals that are electrically insulated from one another and wherein each extends from the second electrical insulation member through the joint member to a location outside the first electrical insulation member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Orkli, S. Coop
    Inventors: Marcos Pablo Curto, Jon Ander Etxeberria Intxausti, Ignacio Diez Martinez
  • Patent number: 8317511
    Abstract: A dual fuel heating apparatus can include a safety control system having a shutoff valve, a thermocouple solenoid assembly, a first nozzle, and a second nozzle. The first nozzle can be positioned to direct heat from combustion of a first gas, liquid, or combination thereof towards the thermocouple solenoid assembly when the first gas, liquid, or combination thereof is being combusted. The second nozzle can be positioned to direct heat from combustion of a second gas, liquid, or combination thereof towards the thermocouple solenoid assembly when the second gas, liquid, or combination thereof is being combusted. The thermocouple solenoid assembly can be configured to maintain the shutoff valve in an open position based on heat from combustion directed to the thermocouple solenoid assembly or in a closed position based on an absence of heat from combustion directed to the thermocouple solenoid assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Continental Appliances, Inc.
    Inventor: David Deng
  • Patent number: 8313325
    Abstract: The present invention provides an ignition switch, which includes a switch member, a closed device, a knob, an electromagnetic valve, and a driving device. The switch member has a receiving chamber to receive the driving device therein. The driving device connects the knob and the electromagnetic valve such that the electromagnetic valve is operated by manipulation of the knob.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Assignee: Seven Universe Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Wu Sen-Yu
  • Patent number: 8235064
    Abstract: A single magnetic coil floating plunger redundant gas valves is disclosed. In an illustrative embodiment, the valve may include a first plunger tube, a second plunger tube spaced a distance from the first plunger tube, a magnetic coil disposed about at least part of the first plunger tube, a first plunger disposed within the first plunger tube, and a second plunger disposed within the second plunger tube. The first and second plungers may be operatively coupled to first and second valve members. Activation of the magnetic coil may result in the first and second plungers being suspended in the plunger tubes without a hard mechanical plunger stop to selectively open corresponding valves or other actuatable components, as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Donald J. Kasprzyk, James Edward Erickson
  • Patent number: 8162002
    Abstract: A device for controlling the delivery of a combustible gas to a burner apparatus is provided including a main gas-delivery duct in which there is at least one servo-assisted diaphragm valve including a valve seat associated with a corresponding closure member with diaphragm control for opening the seat against the action of a resilient biasing member. The diaphragm valve includes a respective control solenoid valve with an electromagnetic operator for controlling the corresponding valve, the solenoid valve being arranged to bring about the opening/closure of a duct of a respective servo-assisted control circuit so as to operate the closure member of the valve indirectly, by the diaphragm control. The duct of the control circuit putting a portion of the main duct that is disposed upstream of the valve seat with respect to the direction of the gas-flow into flow communication with a respective control chamber of the diaphragm valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: Sit La Precisa S.P.A.
    Inventors: Federico Pavin, Michele Benvenuto
  • Patent number: 8136517
    Abstract: A gas cooking range includes a housing having an upper half section and a lower half section. A gas control valve is operable to control the flow of gas to a burner. The gas control valve is positioned in the lower half section of a housing of the gas cooking range. A handle extending from the gas control valve to the upper half section of the housing is operable to control the gas control valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Wade A. Atkinson, Christopher A. Larsen
  • Patent number: 7970494
    Abstract: A system is disclosed that advantageously monitors a status of a relief valve coupled to a water heater or other pressure vessel. By monitoring the relief valve, the system can limit the energy and water wasted resulting from the relief valve's failure. The system can have first and second sensors that monitor a temperature and pressure within the relief valve, and a water flow from the relief valve, respectively. If the temperature or pressure within the relief valve exceeds predetermined thresholds, or a water flow from the relief valve continues for greater than a predetermined interval, the system can restrict a flow of gas, electric current, or water to the water heater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: LiquidBreaker, LLC
    Inventor: Giovanni Fima
  • Patent number: 7743780
    Abstract: The walker glide is a spherical attachment for removable installation over the lower end of a walker leg or other legged article. The glide is formed of a hollow, resilient ball and includes a plurality of leg attachment holes therethrough. No two holes are aligned directly and diametrically opposite one another. Any hole always has an unbroken ball surface directly diametrically across therefrom. This allows any given hole of the ball to be placed over the end of the leg, while assuring that the leg tip will bear against the opposite unbroken surface of the ball. When the bearing surface of the ball becomes worn, the user need only remove the ball and reorient it by installing it on the leg using another hole to provide a fresh bearing surface for the ball. While any suitable type of ball may be used, tennis balls have been found to work well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Inventor: David J. Eggan
  • Patent number: 7703470
    Abstract: A safety switch of a gas stove includes a main member including a cone valve chamber, a first chamber, a second chamber, an input tunnel, a first output tunnel and a second output tunnel connected to the second chamber and outside. A close member, an electromagnetic valve and a first temperature controller are mounted in the valve chamber, the first chamber and the second chamber respectively. A second temperature controller and a knob set are mounted on the main member. The knob set is connected to the close member, the first temperature controller and the electromagnetic valve to turn the close member and activate the first temperature controller and the electromagnetic valve for control of gas flowing into the input tunnel or flowing out of the first and second output tunnels. The present invention provides the functions of sequent ignition, shut the gas when flame is out, and temperature control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Inventor: Sen-Yu Wu
  • Patent number: 7654820
    Abstract: In certain embodiments, a control valve assembly for gas heaters and gas fireplace devices includes a housing. The housing can define an inlet for accepting fuel from a fuel source, a first outlet for delivering fuel to an oxygen depletion sensor, and a second outlet for delivering fuel to a burner. The assembly can include a valve body configured to selectively provide fluid communication between the inlet and one or more of the first outlet and the second outlet, and can include an actuator configured to move the valve body relative to the housing. The actuator can be configured to transition between a resting state and a displaced state. The assembly can include an igniter that includes a sensor, the igniter electrically coupled with an electrode and configured to repeatedly activate the electrode when the sensor senses that the actuator is in the displaced state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Inventor: David Deng
  • Publication number: 20100018585
    Abstract: A device for controlling the delivery of a combustible gas to a burner apparatus is provided including a main gas-delivery duct in which there is at least one servo-assisted diaphragm valve including a valve seat associated with a corresponding closure member with diaphragm control for opening the seat against the action of a resilient biasing member. The diaphragm valve includes a respective control solenoid valve with an electromagnetic operator for controlling the corresponding valve, the solenoid valve being arranged to bring about the opening/closure of a duct of a respective servo-assisted control circuit so as to operate the closure member of the valve indirectly, by the diaphragm control. The duct of the control circuit putting a portion of the main duct that is disposed upstream of the valve seat with respect to the direction of the gas-flow into flow communication with a respective control chamber of the diaphragm valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2006
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Applicant: SIT LA PRECISA S.P.A.
    Inventors: Federico Pavin, Michele Benvenuto
  • Publication number: 20090280448
    Abstract: A multiple gas pilot burner assembly for a household heating appliance. The pilot burner includes an injector having a first conduit for receiving a flow of a first combustible fluid, a second conduit for receiving a flow of a second combustible fluid and a third conduit connected to and in fluid communication with the first and second conduits which is configured to receive the flow of the first combustible fluid from the first conduit or the flow of the second combustible fluid from the second conduit. A single nozzle at the outlet of the third conduit is provided for supplying a pilot flame. The assembly also includes a single flame igniter positioned to cause an ignition of the pilot flame at the nozzle and also a single thermocouple positioned to be heated by the pilot flame and to generate an electrical current when heated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2009
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Applicant: COPRECITEC, S.L.
    Inventors: Jose Joaquin Antxia Uribetxebarria, Ruben Mateos Martin
  • Publication number: 20080216897
    Abstract: A safety switch of a gas stove includes a main member including a cone valve chamber, a first chamber, a second chamber, an input tunnel, a first output tunnel and a second output tunnel connected to the second chamber and outside. A close member, an electromagnetic valve and a first temperature controller are mounted in the valve chamber, the first chamber and the second chamber respectively. A second temperature controller and a knob set are mounted on the main member. The knob set is connected to the close member, the first temperature controller and the electromagnetic valve to turn the close member and activate the first temperature controller and the electromagnetic valve for control of gas flowing into the input tunnel or flowing out of the first and second output tunnels. The present invention provides the functions of sequent ignition, shut the gas when flame is out, and temperature control.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2007
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Inventor: Sen-Yu Wu
  • Publication number: 20080108002
    Abstract: A gas appliance includes a pilot burner, one or more main burners, a solenoid valve coupled to the pilot burner and the main burners for controlling the pilot burner and the main burners, and a control circuit coupled to the solenoid valve for controlling the solenoid valve to operate the pilot burner or the main burner. An igniting device may be coupled to the control circuit for being operated by the control circuit to selectively ignite the pilot burner. One or more batteries may be coupled to the control circuit for energizing the control circuit, and a thermo-couple may be coupled to the control circuit for selectively energizing the control circuit when the battery is out of electricity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2006
    Publication date: May 8, 2008
    Inventor: Hsin Ming Huang
  • Publication number: 20070284000
    Abstract: A thermal cut-off circuit for a gas-fired device and method of operating the circuit. The thermal cut-off circuit includes a thermal cut-off switch and an ambient thermal switch. The thermal cut-off switch is positioned in a combustion chamber and the ambient thermal switch is preferably positioned in a flow of air entering the combustion chamber. The thermal cut-off circuit ensures a gas valve is closed upon detecting a possible incomplete combustion in the combustion chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2006
    Publication date: December 13, 2007
    Applicant: AOS HOLDING COMPANY
    Inventors: Hyungsik Lee, Dennis R. Hughes
  • Patent number: 7256344
    Abstract: A single thermoelectric device designed to operate both as an igniter and flame detector for gas burners is described. Ignition is performed via heating, by Joule effect, of a conductor which can have, preferably, catalytic activity on the combustion while the flame is detected by means of a “hot” thermal state via the seeback effect. Both functions are obtained via control of a circuit for delivery of the power and detection and amplification of the electrical signal correlated to the flame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Inventor: Dario Felisari
  • Patent number: 7252502
    Abstract: The method and apparatus provides a controller (which might comprise a microprocessor) that can control gas flow to a pilot burner in fluid communication with a manual pilot valve and an automatic pilot valve. The exemplary embodiments can comprise a selectable input device that can open the manual pilot valve to allow gas flow to the pilot burner. A pilot flame can then heat one or more thermal detection devices in thermal communication with the pilot burner, wherein the one or more thermal detection devices can output a variable voltage potential to the controller. The controller can then open the automatic pilot valve to maintain gas flow to the pilot burner after the manual pilot valve has been closed. In an exemplary embodiment, the only voltage potential used to power the controller is supplied by the one or more thermal detection devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Sybrandus B. V. Munsterhuis
  • Patent number: 7252109
    Abstract: A safety device (61) for a lighting valve (23) of a gas burner, comprising a starting button (36), a return spring (57), a cutoff shutter (42) controlled by the starting button (36), a control shutter (41) for a pilot light nozzle, and a holding electromagnet (54) for the control shutter (41). The control shutter (41) is normally closed and is actuatable through the starting button (36) for the flowing of the gas to the pilot light nozzle, whilst the holding electromagnet (54) is dependent on the pilot light to hold open the control shutter (41). The starting button (36) is provided for rotation and can be depressed only for a given angular start position so that, for starting the lighting, the button (36) must be rotated up to said start position and subsequently depressed to close the cutoff shutter (42) and open the control shutter (41).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Assignee: Industrias Unidas S.A. DE C.V.
    Inventor: Pierangelo Colombo
  • Patent number: 7131462
    Abstract: A gas control valve assembly includes a valve seat, the valve seat having a gas inlet, first and second gas outlets, a gas passageway in communication between the gas inlet and the gas outlets, and three mounting holes in communication with the gas passageway, a first electromagnetic valve mounted in the first mounting hole and adapted to control the flowing of fuel gas from the gas passageway to the second mounting hole and the first gas outlet, a second electromagnetic valve mounted in the second mounting hole and adapted to control the flowing of fuel gas from the gas passageway to the second gas outlet, and a third electromagnetic valve mounted in the third mounting hole and adapted to control the flowing of fuel gas to the second gas outlet independently or with the second electromagnetic valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Inventor: Wen Chou Chen
  • Patent number: 7133726
    Abstract: An instrument for PCR comprising an assembly, a heated cover, and a computer. The assembly can include a sample block, Peltier devices, and a heat sink, clamped together. The sample block temperature can be changed by controlling the Peltier devices with the computer. A perimeter heater can be used to in prove thermal uniformity. A heated platen can push down onto tube caps to apply a minimum force for seating the tubes. The force can be applied about the periphery of the tube caps to prevent distortion of the caps. The platen can be heated to provide thermal isolation and prevent evaporation from the surface of the sample. The software can include diagnostics to compensate for variation in thermoelectric coolers such that all instruments can perform identically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Assignee: Applera Corporation
    Inventors: John G. Atwood, Adrian Fawcett, Keith S. Ferrara, Paul M. Hetherington, Richard W. Noreiks, Douglas E. Olsen, John R. Widomski, Charles M. Wittmer
  • Patent number: 7073526
    Abstract: A gas control valve is provided for a gas appliance that includes an electrical cut-off (ECO) switch, and a thermocouple having an electrical terminal. The gas control valve includes a control valve housing having a bore therein, an automatic pilot valve magnet disposed the bore and having an electrical terminal, and a connector apparatus for connecting the ECO switch in a series circuit relationship between the electrical terminals of the thermocouple and the pilot valve magnet. The connector apparatus includes a spacer abutting the pilot valve magnet in the bore, a connector for engaging the spacer through a window in the control valve housing and connecting the ECO switch to electrical terminals of the thermocouple and pilot valve magnet, and a retainer for clamping the spacer against the pilot valve magnet and receiving the thermocouple.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: Robertshaw Controls Company
    Inventor: Can Trong Nguyen
  • Patent number: 7047995
    Abstract: A gas valve switch structure of a gas stove includes a top base, an aluminum plate, a sealing washer, two rubber washers, two fixing pieces, a female base, and a protective plate. The protective plate is used for sealing the rubber washer and the fixing piece in the oblong hole of the female base. Then, the top base is screwed on the female base, with the aluminum plate and the sealing washer being clamped between the top base and the female base. The air storing chambers of the female base are closed while the rubber washer and the fixing piece are sealed in the oblong hole of the female base by provision of the aluminum plate and the sealing washer, and the gas valve switch structure of the gas stove achieves a gas triple safety switch by provision of the two electromtagnetic valves and the control bolt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: HNI Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Chin-Ying Huang
  • Patent number: 6968853
    Abstract: The motor-operated valve for regulating a gas flow is the lift type with a modulating valve cut-off member (11), coupled to a valve spindle (10,10a) sliding linearly along a central gas flow conduit (5). A flame safety valve is open initially due to the pressure of the spindle (10a) and in case of the movement of the spindle being locked because of the change in the direction of rotation of the motor, safety cut-off means (5a, 21-24, 21?-22?) drawn by the spindle (10) are interposed between the valve inlet conduit (6) and the outlet conduits (7,8,20) to prevent gas escaping, while the modulating cut-off member (21,21?) is still not actuated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Inventor: Maite Amazorrain
  • Patent number: 6957657
    Abstract: The invention concerns a safety gas valve (1) provided with a safety closure (23) and an operating lever (12) for the closure. The lever (12) is mounted mobile in rotation about an axis L in a cavity (34) circulating the gas and comprises two tabs (122, 123) extending transversely to the axis L, one driving and the other driven. The driving tab (122) drives the lever in rotation, and hence the driven tab (123) which is secured thereto, in response to a stress A when the valve is opened. The driven tab (123) enables to push back the safety closure (23) into an opening position allowing the gas to flow in the valve. If both tabs extend along respective mutually perpendicular directions, the lever (12) enables the cocking movement to return by 90 degrees. Said device reduces the thickness of the valve body, in particular for its fixing into a built-in cooking plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Assignee: Burner Systems International (BSI)
    Inventor: Philippe Choinard
  • Patent number: 6938634
    Abstract: A control device for regulating delivery of fuel and an associated method of use is disclosed. The control device includes an inlet, an electromagnetic safety valve, having a thermocouple connection, a control valve, wherein the electromagnetic safety valve selectively allows fuel to flow from the inlet to the control valve through the electromagnetic safety valve when the thermocouple connection is heated, an actuator valve, a main valve having a pressure responsive device, having a first side and a second side and including an outlet chamber, a regulator valve having a sensing port and an outlet. There is an adjustment mechanism associated with the control valve that can also direct fuel into a pilot assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: Robertshaw Controls Company
    Inventor: Robert Gordon Dewey, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6932101
    Abstract: A solenoid valve assembly for controlling gas supply and opening and closing gas supply with a regulation function generally includes a solenoid valve assembly having a housing, a diaphragm assembly, a first and second solenoid valves, a first and second valve bodies, a first and second terminals of positive and negative poles, a first and second wire winding assemblies, a first and second “E” type cores, a first and second “T” type cores, springs, and brackets of the first and second valves, wherein a small power is required for the opening and closing of diaphragms because of the adopted indirect opening capability of this valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Assignee: Grand Hall Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: William Home