Abstract: The invention relates to a heater (1) with electrical heating elements (15-18) for waterbeds (2), which is arranged between a bed frame (4) and a safety film (5), and which controls the temperature of a metal plate (11) placed under the safety film (5) of a waterbed core (9) lying thereupon, wherein the heating elements (15-18) are connected in a heat-conducting manner with the bottom side (11a) of the metal plate (11) in a flat casing (14) via a readily heat-conducting layer (27). The object of the invention is to provide a heater that consistently prevents the metal plate (11) from overheating, and ensures a reliable control of the waterbed core (9) at varying heat transmission conditions.

Abstract: A resistor heating element (1) has a resistive sheet layer (2) which contains a resistive material (preferably an electroconductive polymer) and is placed between at least two electroconductive layers (3, 4, 7) shaped as plane electrodes in order to form a sandwich element. Each layer (3, 4, 7) can be connected to a power supply line via contact studs. At least one recess (5) in the first electroconductive layer (3) is shifted relatively to a recess (6) in the second electroconductive layer (4) so that the two recesses (5, 6) (viewed in projection one on top of the other) are placed at a distance from each other. These recesses (5, 6) are located in the border region of the electroconductive layer (3, 4, 7) and at least one contact stud (34) can come into electrical contact and be mechanically connected to the other electroconductive layer (3) in the region of the recess (5) of a first electroconductive layer (4) via the resistive layer (2).

Abstract: According to the method for heating the paving screed of a road finisher, said paving screed including a heating means with several heat elements being supplied with electric power from a rotary current generator and being switched on and off by means of a control device, at least two of said heating elements are switched on and switched off periodically and alternatingly in dependence from the operation temperature of said generator and/or the operation temperature of paving screed components contacting paving material. Said heating means comprises in its control device a microprocessor management section with a program for alternatingly switching between heating elements in cycles under consideration of a predetermined combination of operational parameters.

Abstract: Electrodes for a transparent electrically conductive film provided on a transparent panel of a shield panel have metal foils. The metal foils extend along the transparent electrically conductive film while electrically connected to the transparent electrically conductive film. Therefore, a resistance of each of the electrodes is low and potential drop is less prone to be caused in the electrodes. Thus, a voltage applied between the electrodes is effectively applied to the transparent electrically conductive film, and even if a power source voltage is not high, the transparent panel is effectively heated, and a defogging effect is high. As a result, it is possible to provide a shield panel having high defogging effect and less expensive manufacturing cost, and to provide a helmet having such a shield panel.

Abstract: Heating elements, electrical devices and processes for manufacturing these components are provided. The heating elements and electrical components employ a resistance heating material, such as Ni-Cr wire, sewn with a thread to a supporting substrate, such as a non-woven glass mat. The sewn thread supports the relatively thin cross-section of the resistance material when a fusible layer is applied, such as by molding a polymer under pressure.

Abstract: A heat transfer material comprised of a polymeric material and a nitride or oxide is provided and is thermally conductive, but electrically non-conductive. The polymeric material may be silicone rubber, and the nitride or oxide may be aluminum nitride, boron nitride, silicon nitride, aluminum oxide or beryllium oxide. The material is made flexible by adding plasticizer and remains flexible after an extended period of use. A dielectric jacket for an electrical heating cable is thermally conductive and remains flexible so that it can be reused. The heat transfer material can be used on heating devices such as steam tubes and panels, where the heat transfer material does not bond to or adhere to the heated surface, which allows the heating device to be reused.

Abstract: A thermal earmuff includes an inner cover having a circular partition formed with a first circular recess at one side thereof and a second circular recess at another side thereof, a circular member having two opposite circumferential edges provided with two curved shoulders and force-fitted within the second recess of the circular partition to support the inner cover, an outer side of the circular member being provided with a clamping device, a heating member secured on an outer side of the circular member and provided with a heating filament facing the through holes of the circular partition, an outer cover enclosing the inner cover, a head band having a plurality of teeth at two ends each of which is inserted into the slot with the teeth of the head band engaged with the teeth of the clip, and power supplying means electrically connected with the filament

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for heating diesel fuel so as to prevent coagulating or gelling during extremely cold temperatures. The apparatus comprises a cover, made of a flexible material, containing within it a heating element. A cord is connected to the heating element capable of supplying power thereto. The cover is attached to the diesel fuel tank by releasable straps and the cord is connected to a power source for maintaining the fuel in a liquid state.

Abstract: A soft heater, containing metal, carbon or conductive ink coated textile threads, embroidered on, laminated between or woven into a nonconductive substrate to form electrical heating circuits. The heating element may be manufactured in a form of strip, sheet, sleeve or strand of electrically conductive threads for incorporation into plurality of articles. The heating element is shaped or embroidered in a desired pattern. The embroidered heater may be used for a night vision identification purposes.

Abstract: A heater for a steering wheel includes a heater main body arranged on a rim of the steering wheel and formed like a net. The heater main body comprises a plurality of heater wires for generating heat upon energization and side edges arranged along longitudinal edges of the heater main body and fixed at an inner periphery of the rim.

Abstract: An expandable chamber support system for vehicle seat and mattress applications includes an expandable chamber constructed from facing sheets of flexible impermeable material that are sealed along their marginal edges. An upper one of the sheets is formed of electrically conductive elastomeric membrane that is electrically resistance heated while cooperating with a lower one of the sheets to provide pressure support for an occupant supported by the expandable chamber.

Abstract: A decorative heating pad assembly (10) is provided which includes a main body (12) in the form of a stylized mock animal such as a manatee. The assembly (10) has stitched-together top and bottom walls (24, 26) with soft, pliable fill (29), and presents a trunk or primary section (18) together with appendages such as head (20) and flippers (22). A fabric panel (14) is secured to the bottom wall (26) to form a pocket (44) adapted to receive a heating pad (46). The pocket (44) is configured so that a user's hand and forearm (A) can be inserted within the pocket (44) between the pad (46) and bottom wall (26). A variety of stylized animal configurations can be used, such as a manatee, turtle, bear, beaver, dog and cat.

Abstract: This invention is a flexible heater or cooler which includes a flexible, conformal, thermally conductive container filled with thermally conductive material. A thermal element within the container or in contact with the outside of the container provides heat to the container or removes heat from the container. The thermal element is powered by a low voltage direct current electrical source. A sensor for determining the temperature of the thermally conductive material is also included. The thermal element, electrical source, and sensor are in communication by connectors with a solid state continuous temperature controller. In operation, the electrical source provides power to the thermal element, thereby heating or cooling the thermally conductive material within the container. The temperature in the container is determined by the sensor and the controller controls the power delivery to the thermal element in response to the setting on the controller and the temperature in the container.

Abstract: A thermal device for maintaining the temperature of body extremities is provided. The device includes a pocket adapted to receive a heating element and a strap attached to the pocket such that the device is adapted to encircle and be secured around a portion of the human body. The pocket has a tri-fold configuration formed from a rear panel, a front panel, and an intermediate panel positioned atop one another, the intermediate panel being positioned between the front panel and the rear panel. Each of the three panels is connected along their respective vertical side edges. The first horizontal edges of the front panel and the rear panel are fixedly attached forming a first open space between the front panel and the intermediate panel and the second horizontal edges of the rear panel and the intermediate panel are fixedly attached forming a second open space therebetween.

Abstract: A disposable blanket for one-time patient use for warming a patient includes a heating matrix associated with a sheet of plastic film and a circuit printed on one side of the sheet of plastic film, a cover, and a connecting mechanism for connecting the heating matrix with a power source. The power source for the blanket can be supplied by rechargeable batteries, a wall outlet, or a cigarette lighter. The blanket is thrown away after use.

Abstract: A heat retention device is disclosed in the form of a heating pad which includes an electrically resistive coil contained within a volume. The coil terminates at an electric coupler which is external of the volume. A heat retention mass is contained within the volume in thermal conductivity with the resistive element.

Abstract: A system for controlling power applied to a resistor array within a heating pad is provided. The system includes a power supply for connecting the system to a power source, a resistor array positioned within a heating pad for generating heat based on a selected heat level, and a control unit for determining the level of heat to be generated and the duration of time power is applied to the resistor array. In an embodiment, the control unit includes a timing device for generating one of an initial set time period and a shortened time period, at the expiration of either of which the supply of power to the system is terminated. The control unit further includes a mechanism which can initiate the shortened time period in place of the initial set time period. The mechanism may be used to reset the shortened time period to its full duration, after an elapsed period, each time the mechanism is activated.

Abstract: A hand warming device for use in ones jacket or pants pocket, being portable, and having controllable heating. Uses for the device include warming the hand before touching others as in handshakes.

Abstract: A system and apparatus for and method of fusing a wrap to a portion of a length of plastic-coated pipe are disclosed. The system comprises a thermoplastic piece shaped to conform to the portion of pipe, the piece including a heat-generating trace and the heat-generating trace including a plurality of trace leads thereon. The system further comprises a clamp for applying pressure to the piece in the vicinity of the heat-generating trace, the clamp including at least two compression bands, each of the compression bands including a plurality of power leads, each of the power leads corresponding to one of the trace leads. The power leads preferably automatically are placed into electrical contact with said trace leads when the clamp is applied over the thermoplastic piece.

Abstract: A solar heated sleeping apparatus has a sleeping bag having a rectangular lower portion and a rectangular upper portion wherein the lower and upper portions are partially connected on corresponding edges and partially fastened by a zipper along the remaining edges thereof. The sleeping apparatus includes a plurality of heating elements disposed within an inner liner of the upper portion. The apparatus further includes a solar cell mounted to a flexible panel and being removably coupled to the sleeping bag. The flexible panel with the solar cell may be removed from the sleeping bag and positioned at a selected angle upon adjustable support legs for receiving solar rays thereon. Solar energy received by the solar cell is connected to an inverter for recharging a battery. A control unit coupled to the battery and to the heating coils allows selected heating coils to be energized for heating the sleeping bag.

Abstract: A dissolution testing system comprises a vessel plate on which a plurality of vessels are mounted. Each vessel includes a lateral wall having an outer surface around which a plurality of flexible heater elements are attached. Each heater element includes a transparent surface area, a heat conductive element extending along the transparent surface area, a temperature sensing element extending along the transparent surface area, and an electrical contact element connected to the heat conductive element and the temperature sensing element. The transparent heater element allows unobstructed view into the interior of its vessel, and reduces the time required to achieve a stabilized set point temperature in the vessel. A heater control system communicates with each heat conductive element and each temperature sensing element through a corresponding one of the electrical contact elements. The heater control system permits each vessel to be controlled independently of the other vessels.

Abstract: A monitor for use during installation of under floor warming mats to monitor the condition of the electric heating elements. Three lead wires extending from the monitor have alligator clips allowing them to be clipped to the hot, neutral and ground leads of the heating elements. A monitoring circuit generates an audible alarm if the hot or neutral wire is cut or if the ground sheath is electrically connected to either the hot or neutral wire.

Abstract: A flexible, heated, non-allergenic mat particularly adapted for use with animals has a flexible layer of recycled crumb rubber formed under heat and pressure with resin. A reflective sheet is disposed in the flexible layer for reflecting heat. A wire forming a heating element is disposed in the flexible layer above the reflective sheet for heating the mat in response to an applied electric current. A plug and socket may be formed in an edge of the flexible layer so that adjacent mats may be electrically coupled to form a larger heated surface.

Abstract: A reticulate heater has a net-mesh-like-structured heat generator 2 including a plurality of heater wires 20 each having the same wire diameter of from 0.02 to 0.12 mm. The plurality of heater wires 20 are formed into the net-mesh-like-structured heat generator 2 by a tricot knitting technique wherein loops are vertically formed by vertically knitting the heater wire on a continuous and planar basis. The knit meshes of the tricot knitting each have a pitch of 0.5 to 5 mm. Also, the heater wires may be the ones prepared by covering the heater bare wires with a for-enamel-wire coating. Further, the net-mesh-like-structured heat generator 2 may be the one including a plurality of first heater wires each consisting of a heater bare wire only and a plurality of second heater wires each prepared by covering the heater bare wire with a for-enamel-wire coating, the first and second heater wires being formed into the net-mesh-like-structured heat generator by a tricot knitting technique.

Abstract: A rotary nozzle device has

Abstract: This modular snow melting carpet device for melting snow and ice on pathways comprises a flat sheet of generally rectangular shape, two conducting wires embedded in the sheet and running along the length of the sheet and generally close to their respective length edge. The conducting wires are connected at both of their extremities to a female single pin connector also embedded into the sheet and exposed at the width edges. The device also comprises a plurality of heating elements also embedded into the sheet and parallel connected along said conducting wires and, two male single pin connectors adapted to mate with the female connectors of one edge and connected to a power source. Additionally, an intersection device may comprise two crossover connecting wires embedded into the sheet and electrically insulated from the conducting wires and heating elements.

Abstract: A removable cloth sleeve with incorporated heating coil including a heating element wrappedly engaging a bottle of lotion. The heating element is comprised of an interior heating pad. The interior heating pad has an innermost heating coil. The heating element includes an outer cloth pad for removably receiving the interior heating pad therein. The heating element can be removably coupled with the bottle of lotion.

Abstract: A distributed activation system for a unitary sheet of electrically conductive or insulative shape memory alloy having a sufficiently small section to limit the lateral flow of heat including at least one heating element disposed on the shape memory alloy sheet for locally heating an adjacent portion of the sheet such that the adjacent portion assumes a predetermined shape when activated to its threshold temperature. The activation system may be configured for shape memory alloy apparatus and related methods in combination with a control system for selectively activating discrete-shape memory alloy portions with various combinations of at least one heating element that receive an adjustable current such that the resultant local heating causes the sheet to assume a desired overall shape. Methods of forming and selectively activating two-dimensional sheets of electrically conducive and insulative shape memory alloy are further provided.

Abstract: A lagging device, comprises a flexible and insulating pad; anode plate and cathode plate arranged in parallel on the top surface of the pad; a plurality of PTC ceramic resistor arranged cross the anode plate and the cathode plate. Each resistor has anode and cathode in contact with the anode plate and the cathode plate, respectively. The lagging device further has an isolation layer covering at least the topside of the pad. The inventive lagging device can be easily applied to curve surface.

Abstract: The invention provides polymeric PTC compositions and electrical PTC devices with a high voltage capability and improved electrical stability. The polymeric PTC compositions are readily blended and generally do not require cross-linking, particularly radiation induced cross-linking in order to manufacture useful products.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for warming blood of a user prior to distribution to an extremity of a user includes a source of energy suitable for distribution as heat. A transfer path connects the source of energy to a vascular distribution system including a contact pad. The contact pad is configured to conduct the distributed heat through a user's skin and into the user's bloodstream at a vascular surface location defined as a spot where a major blood vessel or vessels larger than capillaries pass sufficiently near the skin surface that heat may be conducted directly from the surface of the skin into the blood flowing through the major blood vessel or vessels toward a body extremity. A positioner connects to the contact pad and secures the contact pad in intimate and complete contact with the vascular surface location.

Abstract: A heating appliance such as an electric heating blanket having a control circuit which controls the application of power to the heating element of the blanket based on the condition of the heating element. The circuit senses the voltage at the end of the heating element in order to determine if the heating element has a short or an open circuit condition therein. Under normal conditions, the sensed voltage will be above a predetermined threshold value. If the sensed voltage falls below the threshold value, the control circuit shuts off power to the heating element. The control circuit will keep power off until the fault condition has been corrected and power has been removed and reapplied to the control circuit.

Abstract: A heating element (2) for an electrically heated panel (22) is provided having a heating conductor (4), a first temperature sensing conductor (6) and a second temperature sensing conductor (8). The first temperature sensing conductor (6) and the second temperature sensing conductor (8) are separated via a layer of material whose impedance varies with temperature. The second temperature sensing connector (8) is straight tinsel conductor whilst the first temperature sensing conductor (6) and the heating conductor (4) are helical wound in opposite senses about the axis of the heating element (2).

Abstract: A soft heater utilizing metal, carbon or conductive ink coated threads, embroidered on, laminated between or woven into a nonconductive substrate to form electrical heating circuits. The heating element may be manufactured in a form of strip, sheet, sleeve or strand of threads for incorporation into plurality of articles. The soft heating element core may contain localized treatment such as positive temperature coefficient (PTC) material for temperature self-limiting control. The electrode conductors are attached to said heating element core which is connected in parallel or in series. The heating element core is shaped in a desired pattern. The whole assembly is sealed by at least one electrically insulated layer which envelopes the strips, sheets, sleeves, ropes or strands of threads.

Abstract: A heated container for transport of prepared hot food has a combination of an electric heating element with an insulation layer comprising metal foil layers and fiber layers. The combination of metal foil layers, which spread the heat from the heating element, and the fiber insulation layers provides an efficient food transport container having sufficiently low power requirements to enable powering the heater element from an automotive 12 volt system while maintaining a food temperature inside the container at about 150° F.

Abstract: A heat retention device is disclosed in the form of a heating pad which includes an electrically resistive coil contained within a volume. The coil terminates at an electric coupler which is external of the volume. A heat retention mass is contained within the volume in thermal conductivity with the resistive element.

Abstract: An ice prevention mat system that includes multiple resilient electrically heatable mats that are positionable to cover a desired pathway and which includes a control circuit for maintaining each of the electrically heatable mats at a temperature sufficient to melt snow falling on the mat as well as to prevent the formation of ice on the mat top surface. Each of the multiple resilient electrically heatable mats has a top surface partially covered a non skid or slip coating as well as light assemblies along the side borders to clearly identify the side edges of the mats.

Abstract: An electric heating sheet (10) includes a heating element (16) formed of a first cured conductive coating disposed on a substrate (12). A pair of electrodes (18) may be disposed at opposite ends of the heating element (16) and in electrical contact therewith. The electrodes (18) may be formed of a second cured conductive coating and one or more elements for configuring current distribution throughout the heating element may also be provided. A first layer (20) formed of an electrically insulating material may be disposed over the electrodes (18) and the heating element (16). A method of manufacturing the heating sheet is also presented.

Abstract: A relatively lightweight and easy to use flexible heating mat for melting snow and ice that can be cut in the field to custom length or to accommodate direction changes or avoid obstructions. The heating mat includes one or more planar flexible heaters sandwiched between two vulcanized polymer protective sheets. The heating mat may be activated remotely or manually and can be powered from either end of the heating mat. Nonskid patterns ate typically included in heating mats used on driveways and walkways.

Abstract: A lightweight flexible electrical heating device for melting snow and ice that may be cut in the field to custom length. The device includes a planar flexible electric heater sandwiched between two vulcanized polymer protective sheets. The heater include an array of resistive heating elements electrically connected in parallel and oriented substantially across the device length, allowing the heater to be cut to any length as needed. Potentially the outside surfaces is equipped with a ribbed non skid pattern that form an array of ribs and channels to increase traction and aid in water drainage.

Abstract: A shape memory device includes a shape memory alloy member configured to have at least a portion of the shape memory alloy member be selectively activated. A heating device is coupled to the member and configured to provide heat to a selected section of the member and activate at least a portion of the selected section.

Abstract: The seat heater includes at least one electric sheet-type heating element (10) made of flexible high-resistivity material to which the main electrodes (13A, 13B) are connected. In order to minimize the time during which the seat is perceived as being cold without any notable increase in overall power requirements, the seat heater is equipped with an additional feature (18A, 18B) for heating basically at least a partial area (SH) of the sheet-type heating element (10) with increased heating density, and a switch device for changing from heating the partial area (SH) with the additional feature (18A, 18B) to overall homogeneous heating of the sheet-type heating element (10) with regular heating density through the main electrodes (13A, 13) or the main electrodes (13A, 13B) and the additional feature (18A, 18B).

Abstract: A distributed activation system for a unitary sheet of electrically conductive or insulative shape memory alloy having a sufficiently small section to limit the lateral flow of heat including at least one heating element disposed on the shape memory alloy sheet for locally heating an adjacent portion of the sheet such that the adjacent portion assumes a predetermined shape when activated to its threshold temperature. The activation system may be configured for shape memory alloy apparatus and related methods in combination with a control system for selectively activating discrete shape memory alloy portions with various combinations of at least one heating element that receive an adjustable current such that the resultant local heating causes the sheet to assume a desired overall shape. Methods of forming and selectively activating two-dimensional sheets of electrically conducive and insulative shape memory alloy are further provided.

Abstract: A warmer for treatment of the feet, neck, and lower back area includes a frame for holding a bladder. An open-cell foam-filled cushion is disposed within the bladder and a cover having opposite ends secured to the frame overlies the bladder so that the bladder holds its shape regardless of its orientation. An opening in a top wall of the bladder allows the charging of water into the bladder. The water fills the bladder and occupies the interstitial spaces of the cushion. The frame includes a flat base that is inclined slightly relative to a horizontal support surface and that flat base supports the bladder. The foam-filled bladder conforms to the soles of feet when the warmer is used as a foot rest. When used as a pillow, the bladder conforms to a person's head and neck, and it conforms to the lower back region when the warmer is positioned in a substantially vertical orientation.

Abstract: A heating device for food and other products is provided. The device includes a unit containing a rechargeable phase change material which is capable of being charged with heat energy by a heat source such as a conduction, convection, radiant heat, electrical resistance, electrical inductance, microwave, or radio frequency. The phase change material may be provided in a variety of forms and may comprise linear alkyl crystalline alkyl hydrocarbons, alkyl hydrocarbon waxes, crystalline fatty acids, linear crystalline primary alcohols, ethylene copolymers, polyethylene, polyethylene glycol, polyethylene oxide, and acetamide.

Abstract: A heating assembly, for use as an electric blanket or personal heating pad, includes a flexible heating panel and an electric circuit for heating the panel. An electrical heating element is mounted directly on the panel and includes inner and outer coaxial coil conductors separated by an electrically insulating layer and surrounded by an outer electrically insulating layer. A two-core flexible electric cable connects the heating element to the power supply, and to an electric control switch for controlling operation of the heating element, a fuse being located in the circuit to be actuated in the event of a short circuit occurring between the conductors of the heating element, due to breakdown of the inner insulating layer. The electric circuit also includes a device for controlling the temperature of the heating element.

Abstract: Clothes- and linen-warming or dehumidification apparatus (5) includes resistive means (25) for producing heat by the Joule effect and an electrically- insulating and thermally-conducting container (20) containing the resistive means (25) including at least one layer of resistive material arranged in track form, with the at least one layer (25) of resistive material having a non-homogeneous distribution such that it produces less heat in a central region of the apparatus (5).

Abstract: A disposable blanket for warming a patient including a power cord with a plug connected to the blanket, a second cord connected to the power cord and the blanket; a wire matrix connected to the power cord and the second cord; a power source; and a thermocouple. The blanket is plugged into a portable case containing the power source. The blanket is thrown away after use.

Abstract: A seat warmer having a self-regulating heating mechanism. The heating mechanism constructed as a sheet comprising layers of a chemical-resistant and moisture-resistant material. Heating elements are enclosed between the layers for heating the sheet to a predetermined temperature.

Abstract: A heated screed assembly (10) for use with a paving machine (12) includes a screed (16). An elastomeric, electrically-powered heating element (36) is carried on the upper surface (28) of the screed. A retaining member (48) is disposed to overly the heating element, whereby the heating element is retained in contact with the upper surface of the screed during operation of the paving machine. Electric power is supplied to the elastomeric heating element by a generator (44).