Abstract: A cooking device safety system includes a stovetop cooking device with a first sensor to detect the presence of an object on or adjacent to a burner; a second sensor to detect a condition of the burner; a transceiver to send a signal from the first and/or the second sensor to a remote device; a microcontroller with a timer; and a signal output device. A method for providing a safe cooking device environment includes detecting a status of a cooking device and detecting the presence of an object on or in the cooking device. When the cooking device has an activated status and an object is detected, the system detects whether a threshold cooking time has been exceeded. If the threshold has been exceeded, the system produces an alert via a signal output device; and/or sends an alert to a remote device; and/or inactivates the cooking device.

Abstract: A heating power control device includes a storage in which first information is stored, the first information being on a cooking process being executed using a cooking appliance, a receiver that receives second information indicating an absence of a user of the cooking appliance or a presence of the user, and a controller that determines whether or not the user is absent for a predetermined period of time based on the second information, determines, based on the first information, whether or not the cooking process is a heating process when the user is determined to be absent for the predetermined period of time, determines, based on the first information, a control method of controlling heating power of the cooking appliance when the cooking process is determined to be a heating process, and controls the heating power of the cooking appliance by the control method.

Abstract: A magnetic connector apparatus that charges an electric vehicle through contactless magnetic coupling. The magnetic connector apparatus includes an external charger, an inlet, and a magnetic connector. The inlet is connected to a rechargeable battery of the vehicle. The magnetic connector is connected to a power source of the external charger and is transferred to the vehicle to be inserted into the inlet.

Abstract: An electric charging apparatus and a failure determination method therefor are provided. In the electric charging apparatus, a relay allows a current to flow inside the electric charging apparatus by switching of a switch. An acceleration sensor detects a vibration of the relay and generating an acceleration sensing signal. A control unit receives the acceleration sensing signal from the acceleration sensor and detects failure of the electric charging apparatus.

Abstract: The image heating apparatus includes first and heat generation member, a connection state switching section switching the first and second heat generation members between a serial connection state and a parallel connection state, the connection state switching section having a first make-or-break-contact relay and a second transfer-contact relay, a drive element provided used for controlling power supplied to the first and second heat generation members, and a capacitor between a power supply path closer to the side of the first and second heat generation members rather than the first relay and a power supply path closer to the commercial power supply side rather than the drive element. The image heating apparatus can suppress an increase in noise level of a noise terminal voltage by performing power control on the heater.

Abstract: Certain embodiments of the present invention provide an electrical outlet including a power output adapted to provide electricity to an electrically coupled device, a switch adapted to activate and deactivate the power output, a temperature sensor adapted to detect a temperature, and a control unit in communication with the switch and the temperature sensor. The control unit is adapted to control the power output using the switch based at least in part on the temperature detected by the temperature sensor.

Abstract: Disclosed is a warm window system that utilizes individual buss bars that are placed within the space between an inside window pane and an outside window pane and creates sufficient physical force to create an electrical contact on the tin oxide layer on the inside surface of the inside pane of glass. The buss bars have a modulus of elasticity to ensure sufficient electrical contact with the tin oxide layer to prevent the formation of hot spots and securely hold the buss bars in place. Both a z buss bar and c buss bar are also disclosed that are capable of generating a sufficient amount of reactive force to create a secure contact with a tin oxide layer on the interior surface of an interior pane of glass in a warm window system to hold the buss bar in place and provide a large contact surface area to provide sufficient electrical contact with the tin oxide layer to prevent hot spots.

Abstract: In general, this disclosure describes example techniques for a flexible heater system to automatically configure itself to operate over different input supply voltages. The flexible heater system may include a flexible heater that includes a first heater element and a second heater element. The flexible heater system may also include a switch circuit that may automatically couple the first heater element and the second heater element in a first configuration when an input supply voltage is at a first voltage level. The switch circuit may also automatically couple the first heater element and the second heater element in a second configuration when the input supply voltage is at a second voltage level.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for supplying current to a glow plug in a running diesel engine after reaching the operating temperature thereof by a series of current pulses, wherein a piston of the engine carries out a work cycle comprising several strokes and the glow plug is supplied with current as a function of the strokes of the work cycle such that the electric current supplied in each work cycle is mainly supplied at a predetermined, steady stroke of the piston, wherein control time intervals that follow each other are defined, during which up to two switching processes can be triggered by a control device, by which the glow plug can be connected to a voltage source for creating a current pulse or can be disconnected from the voltage source for ending a current pulse. According to the invention, the control time intervals have a duration that can be varied by the control device as a function of the rotational speed of the engine.

Abstract: According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a system for reducing peak power consumption in an electromechanically controlled cooking appliance is provided. The system comprises a surface heating unit comprising at least one duty cycle controlled surface heating element, a temperature controlled oven heating element, a controller configured to receive and process utility state signals indicative of the operating state of an associated utility, and a switch responsive to the controller, switchable between a first state and a second state for selectively coupling the oven heating element to a first relatively high voltage power supply and a second relatively low voltage power supply respectively. The controller is configured to switch the switch to the first and second states as a function of the utility state signal.

Abstract: Direct current power gained by photovoltaic cells can be used for heating water in a boiler. Simple installation allows use for domestic or industrial purposes, with a minimal impact to building construction. At the time of lack of sunlight intensity, water heating is provided by gas, or other heating source, or by use of a heating coil supplied by alternating current for that heating. When sunlight intensity is high, the photovoltaic cells of the present invention can be used alone. However, the source of the direct current has to be properly dimensioned in dependence on the volume of the boiler. An output 1 kWh of the source of the direct current gained by photovoltaic cells can be used to heat water of a volume of 100 L.

Abstract: Disclosed is a warm window system that utilizes individual buss bars that are placed within the space between an inside window pane and an outside window pane and creates sufficient physical force to create an electrical contact on the tin oxide layer on the inside surface of the inside pane of glass. The buss bars have a modulus of elasticity to ensure sufficient electrical contact with the tin oxide layer to prevent the formation of hot spots and securely hold the buss bars in place. Both a z buss bar and c buss bar are also disclosed that are capable of generating a sufficient amount of reactive force to create a secure contact with a tin oxide layer on the interior surface of an interior pane of glass in a warm window system to hold the buss bar in place and provide a large contact surface area to provide sufficient electrical contact with the tin oxide layer to prevent hot spots.

Abstract: A heating appliance includes an electric heating element, and a relay for selectively connecting the heating element to a power supply that supplies an alternating electric current to the electric heating element to generate heat. The relay includes an inductive actuator that controls a switching state of the relay, and a switch can interrupt a supply of electric current from a power source to the inductive actuator to adjust the switching state. A flyback path for conducting a decaying electric current includes a selective conductor and a voltage regulator that maintains a flyback voltage across the inductive actuator above a minimum flyback voltage. And a controller transmits a control signal that adjusts the switching state of the relay to cause interruption of the alternating electric current being supplied to the heating element after the alternating electric current being conducted through the relay falls below a peak value.

Abstract: Methods and devices for securing the bottom of an item of cookware to the burner of a stove top by use of magnetism. The magnet(s) may be permanent magnets or electromagnets. The cookware may comprise a permanent magnet disposed on or in the base of the cookware. The burner comprises a magnetic material such as steel or iron. The magnetic material may be in the grate of the cook top, in the electric coil of an electric burner, in the surface of a vitroceramic or smooth-top stove top, or other component of the cook top in close proximity to the bottom of the cookware when it is on the cooking surface. The magnetic source prevents the cookware from being accidentally knocked off the cook top.

Abstract: A heating control system for controlling heating of a fluid contained in a fluid vessel using a fluid level sensor as a heating control element. The system includes a control circuit coupled with an electrical power system of a heating unit. The control circuit includes switching elements that are selectively activated or deactivated responsive to a low fluid level in a corresponding fluid vessel such that heating of the fluid is terminated as the level of fluid becomes less than a predetermined value.

Abstract: An intake air heating system for an internal combustion engine includes an electric heater that heats the intake air, a control circuit that switches a voltage to the electric heater based on a control signal and an over-temperature signal, a temperature sensor that generates a temperature signal based on a temperature of the control circuit, and a temperature sensing circuit that generates the over-temperature signal based on the temperature signal and a predetermined temperature.

Abstract: A multistage control system of a Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) heater for a vehicle is disclosed with a PTC heater that contains heating elements relevant to a first, second, and third stages. An Electronic Control Unit (ECU) outputs a control signal to a first relay, which switches the first stage into an ON and OFF state, for controlling the operation of the first stage of the PTC heater. A heater controller outputs control signals to a second relay and third relay, respectively, for controlling the operation of the second and third stages of the PTC heater, only if the first stage of the PTC heater is in activation via the ECU, wherein the second relay and the third relay each switch the second and third stages into an ON and OFF state.

Abstract: Methods and devices for securing the bottom of an item of cookware to the burner of a stove top by use of magnetism. The magnet(s) may be permanent magnets or electromagnets. The cookware may comprise a permanent magnet disposed on or in the base of the cookware. The burner comprises a magnetic material such as steel or iron. The magnetic material may be in the grate of the cook top, in the electric coil of an electric burners in the surface of a vitroceramic or smooth-top stove top, or other component of the cook top in close proximity to the bottom of the cookware when it is on the cooking surface. The magnetic source prevents the cookware from being accidentally knocked off the cook top.

Abstract: A control system suitable for use with a bathing unit system having a water receptacle is provided. The control system comprises a heating module, a power source and a controller in communication with the heating module and the power source. The power source includes an energy storage member for storing energy collected from a solar panel, and is operative for supplying power generated from solar energy to the heating module. The controller is operative for causing the power source to supply power to the heating module at least in part based on first information derived from a temperature of the water within the water receptacle and second information derived from a condition associated with the power source. The controller is further operative for selecting between a first power source and a second power source for supplying power to the heating module.

Abstract: The invention relates to a boiler control unit (20) for controlling a burner (2) in a heating boiler (1) controlled by a thermal relay (6). The control unit (20) includes a delayed cycle controller (21) which overrides the thermal relay (6) control and thus delays the activating of the boiler. The delay is dynamically alterable by the controller, based on changes in the temperature of the boiler outlet temperature.

Abstract: A system and method of using a set-back or programmable thermostat for heating or cooling systems to also controlling a fast-recovery water heater such as a power-vented fossil fuel powered water heater such that the water heater is disabled during a set-back mode of the thermostat. The system sends a control signal to a relay module adjacent to the water heater, into which the water heater electrical power cord can be plugged into. The interlock mechanism of the water heater prevents operation of the water heater when power to the water heater is interrupted.

Abstract: A portable toaster capable of operation by several power sources, including a dynamo unit. The toaster further includes recessed control handles and knobs so that it presents a prismatic form well suited to packing and requiring minimal storage space. To prevent ingress of moisture or debris, a cover may be selectively moved to cover the food slots. The cover may be associated with an interlock switch to prevent operation of the toaster while the cover is closed.

Abstract: Methods and devices for securing the bottom of an item of cookware to the burner of a stove top by use of magnetism. The magnet(s) may be permanent magnets or electromagnets. The cookware may comprise a permanent magnet disposed on or in the base of the cookware. The burner comprises a magnetic material such as steel or iron. The magnetic material may be in the grate of the cook top, in the electric coil of an electric burner, in the surface of a vitroceramic or smooth-top stove top, or other component of the cook top in close proximity to the bottom of the cookware when it is on the cooking surface. The magnetic source prevents the cookware from being accidentally knocked off the cook top.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a circuit arrangement for preventing overheating of a cooking appliance. The arrangement includes a power circuit with a heating element and a control circuit with a coupling switch. The control circuit and the power circuit are coupled by the coupling switch. The arrangement further includes a safety switch to the control circuit. The coupling switch interrupts a power supply to the power circuit to the heating element when a limiting temperature in the cooking appliance is exceeded.

Abstract: An electrically heated water kettle comprises a vessel for holding a liquid for extraction of tea, coffee or other food material. The vessel includes a partially open immersible container sized to allow the passage of water between the walls of the vessel. The container is capable of holding the material while an opening in the container allows the entrance of water into the container upon immersion of the container in the water. The heated kettle incorporates structure to hold the container out of the water until the water reaches an appropriate extraction temperature and to immerse or withdraw the container into or from the water as is necessary to accomplish the extraction.

Abstract: A control is provided for switching on and off two heating devices of a hob forming a hotplate. In cyclic manner the continuous energy or power generation level can be adjusted by an energy control device. A temperature limiter monitors a maximum temperature via the first heating device, but not via the second heating device. The energy control device controls the first heating device directly or switches the same. The temperature limiter trips a power relay in order to switch the second heating device simultaneously with the first heating device.

Abstract: A heater is provided that has a temperature sensing control system which can be used for both temperature control and over-temperature protection against element burnout. The temperature control system is comprised of an inlet temperature sensing assembly positioned at the inlet to the heater element and an exit thermocouple positioned in the exit end of the heater element. The exit thermocouple may be used for control the heater temperature and provide over-temperature protection. The inlet temperature sensing assembly is used to detect low or no air flow conditions which could lead to heater element failure.

Abstract: Methods and devices for securing the bottom of an item of cookware to the burner of a stove top by use of magnetism. The magnet(s) may be permanent magnets or electromagnets. The cookware may comprise a permanent magnet disposed on or in the base of the cookware. The burner comprises a magnetic material such as steel or iron. The magnetic material may be in the grate of the cook top, in the electric coil of an electric burner, in the surface of a vitroceramic or smooth-top stove top, or other component of the cook top in close proximity to the bottom of the cookware when it is on the cooking surface. The magnetic source prevents the cookware from being accidentally knocked off the cook top.

Abstract: A pool/spa heater having a temperature control portion which is connectable to an external temperature regulating controller, in which the temperature control portion has at least one primary temperature limiting control switch with a first temperature setpoint, at least one secondary temperature limiting control switch with a second temperature setpoint, a third switch adapted for connection with the external temperature regulating controller, and wherein the second temperature setpoint is higher than a maximum temperature setting on the external temperature regulating controller but lower than the first temperature setpoint. The temperature control portion can further have an on/off switch.

Abstract: A popcorn machine for automatic activation of the popping cycle is disclosed. The popcorn machine has a kettle with a heating element controlled by a thermostat. Popping corn is placed in the kettle by a user. A control panel has a one pop button which when pressed initiates the full popping cycle. The one pop button activates a relay that closes a connection through the thermostat to the heating element. The thermostat regulates the temperature in the kettle and shuts off power to the heating element by opening itself and unlatching the relay after a predetermined temperature is reached to allow the completion of the popping cycle. If the kettle initially is over the predetermined temperature, the thermostat will be open and the relay will be unlatched, preventing power from flowing to the heating element. A timer relay may be connected to the first relay to allow the activation of the heating element during a set period of time allowing the kettle to cool. The kettle may also be connected to an oil pump.

Abstract: In the case of a circuit for several inductive pot or saucepan detection coils a control and evaluation circuit is provided. Using switches in the form of MOSFETs, the control or evaluating circuit is in each case connected to one coil in multiplex operation. The MOSFETs have a low drain-source resistance in order to avoid off-resonancing of resonant circuit frequencies due to the overcoupling of several leads to the coils.

Abstract: A user control generates a heat level input signal responsive to a user of a cooktop heating element. Logic generates an output signal having a duty cycle corresponding to the input signal. An electromechanical device connected to apply power from a source to the heating element in response to the output signal.

Abstract: A liquid processing apparatus includes a liquid processing unit 30 for supplying objects to be processes, such as wafers W, with a processing liquid for liquid processing, a processing-liquid supplying unit 100 for supplying heated processing liquids 12a, 12b to the liquid processing unit 30 and a heating unit 200 for heating the liquids 12a, 12b up to a predetermined temperature. The heating unit 200 has a heater 16 for heating the liquids 12a, 12b, a power supply circuit for supplying the heater 16 with electricity, a temperature sensor 14 and a temperature regulator 13 both forming an output control unit for controlling an output from a power source 20 to the heater 16, a solid state relay 19 for switching on/off the operation of the power supply circuit by signals from the temperature regulator 13, and failure detecting units.

Abstract: A range burner surface heater system includes an input selector, a control, a surface heating unit, and a pair of low cost relay switches. The input selector is connected to the control, and the switches are responsive to the control. The surface heating unit is located between the low cost relay switches, with each relay switch connected to a separate power line. The relay switches are alternately opened and closed to energize the surface heating unit singly and in combination. At lower power levels, the switches are operated at current levels of one half the rated current of each switch to extend the life of the switches.

Abstract: A water heater having a water tight tank (10) with a cold water inlet (14) and a hot water outlet (16). First and second heating elements (24, 26) are mounted in the upper and lower portions of the tank (10). A controller is provided for energizing element (24) to heat water in the upper portion of tank (10) until the temperature of the water in the upper portion of tank (10) reaches a preset temperature, at which time, the element (24) will be de-energized. The controller is adapted to energize element (26) when element (24) is de-energized. The controller is further adapted to de-energize element (26) and at the same time energize element (24) when the temperature of the water in the lower portion of the tank reaches a preset temperature.

Abstract: A toaster having an electronic circuit including a chip-on-board ASIC that controls the operation of toaster heating elements and an electromagnet to which relatively high voltage is applied to hold an armature carried by a bread carriage and toaster-operating assembly. The armature is freely suspended from a bread carriage and toaster-operating assembly and accurately guided onto the electromagnet when the bread carriage is lowered. The toaster has a one-piece main frame that includes both a base frame plate and a rear frame plate. Several economies are obtained by virtue the construction of the toaster. A one-piece control support member is mounted on the base frame plate that supports both mechanical and electronic assemblies for controlling the operation of the toaster in predetermined relative positions.

Abstract: A decorative film having an excellent decorative effect, excellent three-dimensional curvature emulating properties, three-dimensional curvature formability, long-term weather resistance and stain resistance. The decorative film comprises one or more transparent layers and a decorative metal layer. The transparent layer has an adhered side for being adhered to a substrate. The transparent layer comprises a copolymer of a tetrafluoroethylene, a hexafluoropropylene and a vinylidene fluoride. The decorative metal layer is on the adhered side of the transparent layer. A substrate can be bonded to the metal layer of the decorative film. The substrate can be a complex three-dimensional shaped substrate. The substrate can also be an injection molded substrate. An adhesive can be disposed on the metal layer of the decorative film, and the adhesive layer can be disposed between the metal layer and the substrate.

Abstract: Conventionally, a thermal fixing apparatus contained in an image forming apparatus has a heater like a halogen heater or a film-heating type heater. Generally, the heater comprises a plurality of heat generating elements connected to an AC power supply. Since the thermal fixing apparatus has a plural of heat generating elements, it needs a switching control elements corresponding to the number of heaters. The switching control elements causes a need for being increased in size so as to cope with energizing of large current of driving the heater. For the purpose of solving the above problem, an apparatus requiring only a small number of semiconductor switching elements is provided.

Abstract: A liquid processing apparatus includes a liquid processing unit 30 for supplying objects to be processes, such as wafers W, with a processing liquid for liquid processing, a processing-liquid supplying unit 100 for supplying heated processing liquids 12a, 12b to the liquid processing unit 30 and a heating unit 200 for heating the liquids 12a, 12b up to a predetermined temperature. The heating unit 200 has a heater 16 for heating the liquids 12a, 12b, a power supply circuit for supplying the heater 16 with electricity, a temperature sensor 14 and a temperature regulator 13 both forming an output control unit for controlling an output from a power source 20 to the heater 16, a solid state relay 19 for switching on/off the operation of the power supply circuit by signals from the temperature regulator 13, and failure detecting units.

Abstract: A circuit configuration for driving an ignition coil includes a first semiconductor switch having a load path connected in series with a primary winding of the ignition coil, and having a control electrode, which is driven in accordance with a first drive signal. The circuit configuration further includes a second semiconductor switch having a load path connected in parallel with the primary winding and having a control electrode, which is driven in accordance with a second drive signal.

Abstract: A dishwasher having a cabinet and wash chambers in the form of drawers which slide in and out of the cabinet. Rigid and flexible closures are disclosed for sealing off the wash chambers when retracted into the cabinet. A detergent dispenser for the dishwasher is provided in one wall of a wash chamber in the wash water discharge path into the wash chamber so that detergent powder is flushed out of the dispenser and mixed with the wash water prior to the latter being discharged into the wash chamber. A wash programme for a dual wash chamber dishwasher is also disclosed which minimizes total water consumption by transferring water from one chamber to the other.

Abstract: A steering wheel heating assembly 10 which electively provides a relatively high voltage electrical signal to a heating element 16 which is coupled to a steering wheel, effective to heat the steering wheel. The assembly 10 includes a temperature sensor 28 which senses or monitors the temperature of the steering wheel and which communicates the monitored sensor to a controller 26. Should the temperature of the steering wheel be above a certain value, the controller 26 prevents the relatively high voltage signal from being communicated to the heating element 16. The controller 26 may also monitor the operating speed of the engine and prevent such signal communication when the engine is not being operated.

Abstract: A device for disconnecting an electric appliance or a component thereof from a source of electricity including a circuit connecting the appliance or component thereof to a power source through a relay or other component to open the circuit; and a timer circuit connected to the relay. The timer circuit includes a processor for setting the timer circuit, and a manually operated switch in communication with the processor. The timer circuit is activated for a predetermined time increment by closing the switch, and the relay is closed while the timer circuit is activated. When the switch is closed again while the timer circuit is activated, an additional time increment is added to the activation period.

Abstract: Due to a bimetallic contact point, a fine control is out of sight. Further, dispersion of bimetal characteristics and poor durability of a contact point cause problems, particularly in maintenance work. In order to overcome these problems, a controller for extending a service life of the contact point can provide a fine control, so that a maintenance-free electric cooker can be provided. The ON/OFF of the contact point of relay is controlled to operate at zero potential of commercial power, and a short-pulse-signal-switch that allows the relays to remove deposition by itself even if the contact point encounters deposition, are prepared and applied to plural heaters for controlling thereof.

Abstract: A safety device for use in conjunction with an electric cooking stove includes a relay unit having a plug having two live pins and a neutral pin for insertion in a stove receptacle, a receptacle receiving a similar plug of a stove, a relay arrangement for interrupting connections between the live pins of the plug, and corresponding live sockets of the receptacle; and a control unit connected to the relay arrangements, the control unit generating signals to activate said relay arrangement; the relay arrangement is configured to interrupt only one at a time of the connections between the live pins and the live sockets, and the relay arrangement further includes preset switch or jumper to select which of said connections is interrupted.

Abstract: A heater assembly for use with spas, hot tubs and the like, includes a control circuit which controls the application of electrical power to the heater. A control circuit controls application of power to the heater in response to a thermostat setting, the flow of water in the spa system and in response to a high limit temperature. When the high limit temperature is exceeded, electrical power to the heater is removed. Electrical power to the heater cannot be restored until power to the entire system is turned off and then back on. The control circuit is mounted on the heater and includes spring-loaded standoffs which maintain the temperature sensors in good thermal contact with the body of the heater.

Abstract: In an initial predetermined period of time for supplying electric power to the electrically heated catalyst mounted on the vehicle, a maximum of electric power is supplied from the power source to simplify the complex heat control operation. Simultaneously with starting of the engine, the electrically heated catalyst is connected to the power source to start supplying the electric power, and a maximum electric power permitted by the power source is supplied for a first predetermined period of time after which the electrically heated catalyst is just about to be activated. After the first predetermined period of time has passed, the electric resistance of the electrically heated catalyst is measured until a second predetermined period of time elapses.

Abstract: A switching circuit for selectively switching either of two input signals to an output circuit employs electrically isolated separate input circuits with independent grounds to prevent drift of the output signal delivered by the output circuit. Circuit isolation and independent grounds are made possible by the use of a single relay employing separate poles acting with two pairs of contacts respectively coupled with the input circuits. The switching circuit may be employed in a temperature control system for alternately coupling temperature and calibration signals to a temperature controller.

Abstract: A control system for steam production in a oven combination is described. The control is adapted for use with a single source of steam and a plurality of oven cavities wherein cooking is achieved by a combination of convection oven and steam heat or by steam alone. The control system activates steam production in response to a temperature requirement for a particular oven and opens a valve permitting the inflow of steam into that oven alone. The control system can also be used to admit steam simultaneously to all oven cavities if required.

Abstract: An integrated circuit constructed to provide control functions to a toaster oven cooking appliance. The control functions including compensation for input voltage fluctuations, compensation for residual heat due to recycling, audible signal generation, multiple mode selection, safety shut off and others. The integrated circuit also provides flexibility to accommodate multiple models of an appliance in a product line.