Cloth Or Other Fabric Patents (Class 219/529)
  • Patent number: 8283602
    Abstract: An electric heating blanket including a flexible sheet-like heating element and a shell. The shell covers the heating blanket an includes two sheets of flexible material welded together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Augustine Temperature Management LLC
    Inventors: Scott D. Augustine, Randall C. Arnold, Ryan S. Augustine, Rudolf A. Deibel, Scott A. Entenman, Gordon D. Lawrence, Keith J. Leland, Thomas F. Neils
  • Patent number: 8283612
    Abstract: The invention provides a planar element which is intrinsically heatable and which is particularly suitable for attachment to multi-dimensionally curved surfaces. For this purpose the planar element features particularly high deformability, achieved in accordance with the invention through a planar element having a layer sequence comprising a heating layer and a contacting layer, each of these two layers being composed of a polymeric material based on elastomers and/or on plastic polymers which have a particular elongation at break and at the same time a particular tensile elasticity modulus. Furthermore, the invention provides an adhesively bonded assembly comprising a bonding substrate and a planar element of the aforesaid kind, a method of producing a planar element of the aforesaid kind, and the use of such a planar element for heating an adhesively bonded assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Tesa SE
    Inventors: Klaus Keite-Telgenbuescher, Monika Junghans, Bernd Dietz, Udo Dominikat, Frank Domann, Ute Ellringmann, Veronika Ramm
  • Patent number: 8258443
    Abstract: A heating unit for use in heating buckets or barrels. The heating unit includes a first pliable cover layer and a second pliable cover layer. A pliable electrical heating element is disposed between the first and the second cover layers and configured to convert electrical energy to heat energy and to distribute the heat energy. The pliable electrical heating element includes a heat generating element for converting electrical current to heat energy and a heat spreading element comprising carbon thermally coupled to the heat generating element. The heating unit further includes a thermal insulation layer. The heating unit includes a receiving power connector electrically connected to the heat generating element. The heating unit further includes one or more fasteners allowing the heating unit to be wrapped around a bucket or barrel and secured by the one or more fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: 417 and 7/8, LLC
    Inventors: Thomas Caterina, David Naylor
  • Patent number: 8253071
    Abstract: This invention relates to a flat heating element (20), in particular for heating surfaces in contact with the user in the passenger compartment of a vehicle, comprising at least one electrical conductor (25). According to the invention, the electrical conductivity of at least one of these electrical conductors (25) is at least temporarily reduced if the temperature thereof at least locally exceeds a permissible maximum temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: W.E.T. Automotive Systems, Ltd.
    Inventor: Michael Weiss
  • Patent number: 8217318
    Abstract: The invention is a submersible hand warmer apparatus for warming a diver's gloved hands. The apparatus includes a sleeve having a center portion with an elongate chamber with a right access port and a left access port; and right and left sleeve portions with elastic cuffs. The cuffs can be stretched allowing the diver's gloved hands access to the chamber, and then retract, forming a seal against the diver's arms. The chamber is sized for enough heat transfer fluid, such as water, so that the temperature of the diver's hands is raised to at least 54° F. upon immersion of his hands in the water. The apparatus also includes a heating component; an energy source, such as a battery; a housing which provides structural support; an insulation that slows the loss of heat to the cold ambient water; and a controller that controls the rate that energy is consumed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Jody Wood-Putnam, Marshall L Nuckols, Kenneth Price
  • Patent number: 8217308
    Abstract: A more comfortable seat is provided by detecting whether or not a person is in a seat. A seat has a heating element 1, a seat surface temperature detector 5 that is situated below a seat surface cover and that detects the temperature of the seat surface, and a seating determination unit 6 for determining whether or not a seat is occupied. A determination is made as to whether or not a seat is occupied according to an amount of temperature change detected by the seat surface temperature detector 5 for a predetermined period of time, whereby a determination can be readily made as to whether or not a person is seated. When no one is seated, application of power to the heating element 1 is stopped, and the like, which in turn contributes to energy saving and enhancement of fuel efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Naohito Asami, Masanori Nishikawa
  • Patent number: 8197621
    Abstract: A planar heating element using for carbon micro-fibers and its manufacturing method have developed. The high-resistant carbon micro-fibers and carbon powder are efficiently coated to completely replace a conventional heating element using resistance heat of a nichrome wire. A single heating element is possibly formed to have a large width and an ultra thin heating element without temperature restriction by overcoming drawbacks of a carbon powder printed heating element serving as an initial module of the planar heating element. Thus, it is possible to produce the various convenient heating elements or heating modules using DC and AC electricity without restriction by solving problems in installation and use, for example, space restriction, thereby various convenient heating elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Naos Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: In Jung
  • Patent number: 8188406
    Abstract: The invention relates to a planar heat generating element for use on steering wheels of automotive vehicles and motorboats, and a problem of the invention is to adjust a temperature portion of a planar heat generating element which is attached to a steering wheel, so as to enhance the sensation of using the steering wheel by the user when he or she grips thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Naohito Asami, Yoshitaka Morikawa, Takehiko Shigeoka
  • Patent number: 8153940
    Abstract: The invention relates to a flat heater, which is used for applications in the range of heating voltages of up to 1000 V, produces attainable powers of up to 2 kW/m2 and is characterized by the fact that the electrical resistance required for the heating is formed by an electrically conductive cellulose nonwoven. Metallic contacts which are incorporated ensure the connection of the conductive cellulose nonwoven to a voltage source. Polymer films applied on both sides provide mechanical and electrical protection and prevent the ingress of moisture into the cellulose nonwoven.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Thüringisches Institut für Textil-und Kunststoff-Forschung E.V.
    Inventors: Frank-Günter Niemz, Bernd Riedel, Carmen Knobelsdorf
  • Patent number: 8143554
    Abstract: A heating element includes a plurality of folded surfaces which can be resistively heating using electrical current. The heating element can advantageously function both as a heating source and a heat transfer device, as the need for separate fins or other heat dissipation members is eliminated. In some embodiments, the heating element can be included in a fluid heating system. The fluid heating system can include a fluid transfer device configured to deliver a volume or ambient air or other fluid through the heating element. As air moves past the heated folded surface of the heating element, it is heated. Heated air can then be discharged to one or more desired locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Amerigon Incorporated
    Inventor: John Lofy
  • Patent number: 8138457
    Abstract: The present invention provides a plate-type heater designed to allow uniform generation of heat across the entire surface of the heater, comprising an upper component composed of a first outer covering and a first intermediate layer joined together and a lower component composed of a second outer covering and a second intermediate layer joined together, with a heating element being placed between said upper component and lower component and wires laminated onto the two end surfaces of said heating element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: Carbonic Heat Corporation
    Inventor: Tae Suk Seo
  • Patent number: 8106338
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a heating element for heating at least one surface contacted at times by a user, with a plurality of heating conductors or heating conductor sections that are directly or indirectly connected electrically to one another, at least in part by mutual contact, with at least one heating conductor or heating conductor section which, upon exceeding a permissible maximum temperature, at least temporarily loses its electrical conductivity at least in part. It is provided that the electrical resistance of at least two heating conductors or heating conductor sections is dependent at least in part on its mechanical strain, that these heating conductors or heating conductor sections are electrically connected to one another in parallel, and that they are separated from one another at least in sections by a spacing zone in order to prevent electrical connection between them in spacing zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: W.E.T. Automotive Systems AG
    Inventor: Michael Weiss
  • Publication number: 20110309212
    Abstract: The present invention provides an orthopedic wrist rest where accessories and extensions are reversibly attached, to provide heat, vibration, or structural aspects as light, fans or ionizers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2005
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Inventors: Salvatore Guerrieri, Christopher C. Papadopoullos
  • Patent number: 8076613
    Abstract: The invention depicts and describes a panel heating device (1) for placing in the area of floors, walls or ceilings, comprising an electrically conductive layer (2), another first layer (3), and electrical supply lines (5, 6). The invention provides that the first layer (3) is made of an electrically insulating and liquid-tight material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Ewald Dörken AG
    Inventors: Heinz Peter Raidt, Jörn Schröer
  • Publication number: 20110278282
    Abstract: A fabric material includes a conductive wire material that generates heat when supplied with current. Part of the conductive wire material in a longitudinal direction of the conductive wire material is externally exposed from the fabric material. A first planar element and a second planar element, of which at least one has electrical conductivity, are electrically connected to an externally exposed portion of the conductive wire material in such a manner that the first and second planar elements sandwich the exposed portion and are bonded so as to be in planar contact with each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2011
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Applicant: TOYOTA BOSHOKU KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Kouhei KATO, Akari TAKAHASHI, Takahiro HARITA
  • Publication number: 20110259874
    Abstract: A flat heating apparatus includes a plank, at least one heater, at least one wire and a metal foil. The plank includes a vacuum chamber defined therein and at least one groove defined in an upper face thereof. The heater is located in the groove. The wire is directed through the heater and extended from the plank. The metal foil is provided on the plank so that the heater is located between the metal foil and the plank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2010
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Inventor: LIANG-YUN LAI
  • Patent number: 8035064
    Abstract: The product is basically a heating blanket that is adapted in size to fit around a canister of refrigerant used to recharge heat pumps, air conditioners and refrigerators in a commercial or home setting. The blanket has a heating element within it which heats the canister when placed around the canister. From one corner of the blanket is an electrical cord which runs to a small control unit and then to a plug that fits a common 110 voltage household outlet. The control unit consists of a fitting that is designed to be attached to the valve on the top of the refrigerant canister. This fitting is attached to a pressure sensitive valve that sense the pressure of the refrigerant that passes through the valve. This pressure sensitive valve turns off the flow of electric to the blanket when the gas hits a certain pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Inventor: Craig Fish
  • Patent number: 8006633
    Abstract: An embroidered electrode (10) consists of embroidered elements (12, 13, 14) of electrically conductive thread sewn on a backing material (11). Within a given element the orientation of stitching is selected to be parallel to the direction in which the element extends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventors: Genevieve Bennett, Philip A. H. Clarke, Warren B. Valentine
  • Patent number: 8008606
    Abstract: The present invention provides a composite heating element suitable for heating an article when activated by a power source. The composite heating element comprises a first backing layer and a discontinuous circuit formed of a conductive material disposed on the first backing layer. The discontinuous circuit has terminal ends for electrical connection with the power source and defines at least one gap between the terminal ends. The composite article further comprises a second backing layer spaced from the first backing layer. A trace formed of a conductive material is disposed on the second backing layer. The trace is aligned with the at least one gap for forming a complete circuit when the first and second backing layers at least partially abut each other with the trace extending across the gap and contacting the discontinuous circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: T-Ink, Inc.
    Inventors: Terrance Kaiserman, John Gentile, Anthony Gentile
  • Patent number: 7977608
    Abstract: A panel heating system including a support and a heating layer, which contains electrically conductive plastic, with the heating layer configured from a flexible film and the support is flexible. A heatable object is provided, such as, a panel healing system. A method for producing the heating system, in which a heating layer containing electrically conductive plastic is joined to a support. The heating layer is formed by the application of an electrically conductive, in particular expandable or expanded, plastic material to the support, and the subsequent curing of the plastic material on the support. A seat occupancy recognition system is provided that contains elements including electrically conductive plastic. A seat having a seat occupancy recognition system, in addition to a seat occupancy recognition method, according to which a change in the resistance of an electrically conductive plastic material is detected as a result of a weight load on the material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: BrainCOM AG
    Inventors: Michael Diemer, Stephan Diemer
  • Patent number: 7968826
    Abstract: The warming article contains a heating element and a sensing system. The sensing system has a first sensor element being a temperature dependent variable resistor and a second sensor element having at least two resistors in series and corresponding jumpers for one or more resistors in the second sensor element. The first sensor element is linear and flexible and the second sensor element is used to adjust the total sensor resistance to a fixed value at a particular temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Milliken & Company
    Inventors: Alfred R. DeAngelis, Joshua D. Horvath, Andrew D. Child, Scott Craig Thielman
  • Patent number: 7964827
    Abstract: There is provided a laminated sheet heater whose mounting space is small, a lead wire-equipped laminated sheet heater that requires only a small mounting space and provides high reliability of electrical connection between a heater element and a lead wire, a heater-equipped battery structure provided with the laminated sheet heater or the lead wire-equipped laminated sheet heater, and a heater unit. In a first lead wire-equipped laminated sheet heater, a foil heater element includes a heater terminal portion protruding into a film void part in a planar direction of a laminated sheet heater. A lead core wire of a lead wire includes a lead terminal portion crimp-connected to a heater terminal portion by a crimping member so that the lead core wire is placed in contact with the surface of the heater terminal portion within a film void part in the planar direction of the laminated sheet heater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masahiko Suzuki, Naoki Fukusako, Shuhei Marukawa, Yukie Uemura, Kunio Kanamaru
  • Patent number: 7964826
    Abstract: A modular heater system is provided that includes a heat trace assembly and a connector assembly. The heat trace assembly has a heat trace section that defines a plurality of fins, an insulation jacket surrounding the heat trace section, and at least one terminating member disposed at an end of the heat trace section. The connector assembly has a shell, including a plurality of outer walls and inner walls defining cavities therebetween, and a fitting heater assembly that includes a fitting adapter, a heat trace section disposed around the fitting adapter, and an outer casing disposed around the fitting adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: Watlow Electric Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Eric E. Ellis, Shawn L. Leininger, Allen Boldt, Louis P. Steinhauser
  • Patent number: 7935911
    Abstract: The invention relates to constructing a heating mat that employs electrical resistance foils to provide a uniform heat. In embodiments of the invention applicable for providing heat to individuals, the mat provides this uniform heat at a comfortable temperature. The heating mat structure comprises protective layers surrounding the heating element to provide a durable structure that is suitable for industrial and commercial use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Inventor: Arthur Kaesler
  • Patent number: 7923668
    Abstract: An engine nacelle inlet lip includes both acoustic treatment and electric heating for ice protection. The inlet lip has a composite outer skin and a composite inner skin, with the composite outer skin having at least one integrated heater element embedded in the composite material. An acoustic cellular core positioned between the outer and inner skin acts to attenuate fan noise from the engine. Covering the outer skin and overlying the acoustic core is a perforated erosion shield having a first set of openings that pass entirely thorough its thickness. The composite outer skin includes a second set of openings such that sound waves can pass from an inner barrel portion of the inlet lip through the erosion shield, outer skin, and heater element to the underlying acoustic cellular core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Rohr, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael John Layland, Keith Towers Brown, Claude Marc Hubert, Daniel P. Christy
  • Publication number: 20110079589
    Abstract: A yarn (100) comprising one or more bundles (110, 120, 130), each of said one or more bundles comprising at least thirty metal fibres is described. The metal fibres (140) comprise stainless steel and a metal which is electrically more conductive than stainless steel. The yarn is twisted with a predetermined number of torsions per meter, said predetermined number of torsions per meter is smaller than 80 per meter and larger than 10 per meter. By doing so, an improved flexlife of the yarn can be obtained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2009
    Publication date: April 7, 2011
    Inventors: Kris De Greve, Xavier Amils, Steve Verstraeten, Pol Speleers
  • Patent number: 7919733
    Abstract: A heat trace assembly is provided that includes a heat trace section, an insulation jacket surrounding the heat trace section, and a plurality of standoffs disposed between the heat trace section and the insulation jacket. A corresponding plurality of passageways are formed between the heat trace section and the insulation jacket and between the plurality of standoffs. The standoffs can be a part of the insulation jacket and/or the heat trace section, and the standoffs can furthermore be integrally formed with or separately attached to the insulation jacket and/or the heat trace section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Assignee: Watlow Electric Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Eric E. Ellis, Shawn L. Leininger, Peggy Gruenloh, Steve Brncic, Louis P. Steinhauser, Allen Boldt
  • Patent number: 7901756
    Abstract: The invention provides a functional stretch laminate composite puckered fabric which is robust, laundry-durable and adaptable for securing about any three dimensional body, and a method for forming such puckered fabric. The functional stretch laminate fabric is provided with at least one functional element which can conduct electricity, conduct light, provide electromagnetic fields or provide shielding from electromagnetic fields. Generally, the functional stretch laminate fabric is sufficiently robust for incorporation into garments and for applications in so-called wearable electronics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Textronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Stacey B. Burr, Claudia Schultze, Roger Armitage
  • Publication number: 20110046703
    Abstract: This invention relates to a heating device for low voltage thermal therapy in which a heating layer is provided on the protector body and a lead wire is extended from the heating layer, a terminal being provided on the lead wire which is connected with the terminal of a thermostat. With this structure, low voltage direct current is supplied to the heating layer for generating heat required and temperature is regulated by the thermostat such that restoration effect on the injury condition of affected part is further enhanced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2009
    Publication date: February 24, 2011
    Inventor: Chien-Chou Chen
  • Publication number: 20110036828
    Abstract: A carbon nanotube fabric includes a heating element and at least two electrodes. The heating element includes a plurality of carbon nanotubes joined end to end. The at least two electrodes are separately located and electrically connected to the carbon nanotubes of the heating element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2009
    Publication date: February 17, 2011
    Applicants: Tsinghua University, HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Chen Feng, Kai-Li Jiang, Liang Liu, Shou-Shan Fan
  • Patent number: 7884307
    Abstract: An electric heating textile is provided. The electric heating textile includes an electric heating layer, plural heat-insulating layers and a protective layer. The electric heating layer includes at least one conductive yarn capable of generating heat and plural aromatic polyamide fibers. The heat-insulating layers are under the electric heating layer. The protective layer is on the electric heating layer. A method for manufacturing the electric heating textile is also disclosed in the specification.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: Taiwan Textile Research Institute
    Inventors: Chen-Liang Li, Han-Hsing Hsiung, Ching-Tang Huang, Cheng-Kun Chu
  • Patent number: 7838804
    Abstract: The present invention pertains to an electric heating element with at least one flat heating resistor to be arranged near a surface to be heated, and at least one electrode that serves to feed a current into the heating resistor and features at least two contact conductor strands that are, at least locally, connected to one another and to the heating resistor, at least in an elongated contacting region. The invention proposes that at least at one location along the electrode and/or the contacting region at which at least one of the contact conductor strands, at least locally, extends parallel to the direction of the electrode, and/or the contacting region, at least one additional contact conductor strand, at least locally, extends at an angle thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: W.E.T. Automotive Systems AG
    Inventor: Martin Krobok
  • Patent number: 7827675
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing an activated carbon fiber soft electric heating product for overcoming existing problems including uneven temperature rise and heat dissipation at surfaces of the product, unbendable feature, short life and poor safety. An activated carbon fiber cloth and a woven fiber cloth of the activated carbon fiber soft electric heating product are fixed by an epoxy resin layer, and a conducting copper net is disposed between the activated carbon fiber cloth and the epoxy resin layer and coupled to a power input wire. The manufacturing method includes the steps of: (1) spraying an epoxy resin on a surface of the woven fiber cloth, and bake-drying and hot pressing the woven fiber cloth; and (2) connecting the conducting copper net and the power input wire, laying the activated carbon fiber cloth, and performing a second-time hot pressing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Inventors: Ching-Ling Pan, Yung-Shun Wu
  • Patent number: 7829822
    Abstract: An electric blanket has a woven web of warp and weft fibers. At least a portion of the warp fibers are electrically conductive. At least a portion of the weft fibers are electrically conductive and interweave with the electrically conductive warp fibers at a first area of the web. A power source in electrical communication with the web applies a voltage to the web that produces a wide area electrical distribution at the first area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Inotec Incorporated
    Inventor: Barry P. Keane
  • Patent number: 7825356
    Abstract: Certain embodiments pertain to a heater for warming a patient's extremity in order to cause vasodilation for facilitating venous catheterization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Augustine Biomedical and Design LLC
    Inventors: Karen Hewes, Scott D. Augustine, Mark C. Albrecht, Randall C. Arnold, Thomas F. Neils
  • Patent number: 7823625
    Abstract: An apparatus and method of making an upper body heating and cooling garment including heat transfer tubing and quick-release connectors. Operation of the garment is unaffected by the wearer carrying a load on a portion of the wearer's body. The garment includes a heat transfer area and a load bearing area. The heat transfer area includes heat transfer tubing positioned on the surface of the garment. In one embodiment, the tubing is sewn onto the fabric of the garment. The tubing is attached to a thermal unit by connector assemblies that firmly lock together and release upon application of a specified axial tension force. Each connector assembly includes a male and female adapters. The female adapter includes a latching member with an opening that has a bottom. The bottom is configured to allow for easily inserting, retaining, and releasing the male adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Adroit Development, Inc.
    Inventor: Clifford E. Gammons
  • Patent number: 7816628
    Abstract: In an embodiment of the present invention, a garment includes a fabric having a channel, a heat conductive wire disposed in the channel, a power source coupled to the heat conductive wire and detachably attached to the garment, and a controller electrically coupled to the power source and detachably attached to the garment, wherein the controller is configured with a heat setting. In another embodiment of the present invention, a method of heating a garment includes providing a fabric, forming a channel, disposing a heat conductive wire within the channel, connecting the heat conductive wire with a power source, wherein the power source is a rechargeable battery, and adjusting the heating of the garment by operating the power source and the heat conductive wire using a controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Products of Tomorrow, Inc.
    Inventors: Juan Fernandez, Paul McGrath, Frank Cipolla, James Sabastian, Michael J. Keating
  • Patent number: 7786408
    Abstract: A flexible heating subassembly, which may be incorporated in an electric warming blanket or any other type of flexible heater, includes a single heater, which is preferably formed from an electrically conductive polymeric fabric. The subassembly further includes first and second conductive bus bars, each extending alongside a respective first and second edge of the heater, each being coupled to the heater by at least one row of stitching that extends along the respective bus bar. The edges of the heater may be folded over respective bus bars for coupling and each of the bus bars may terminate just beyond opposing ends of the heater. A ribbon of conductive material may be interposed between each of the bus bars and the heater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignee: Hot Dog International LLC
    Inventors: Scott D. Augustine, Randall C. Arnold, Ryan S. Augustine, Rudolf A. Deibel, Scott A. Entenman, Gordon D. Lawrence, Keith J. Leland, Thomas F. Neils
  • Publication number: 20100204763
    Abstract: An electric warming blanket for warming patients during surgery and other medical procedures includes a flexible heater and a temperature sensor assembly coupled thereto; a first layer of water resistant material coupled to a second layer of water resistant material, about a perimeter of the heater, forms a substantially hermetically sealed space for the heater and the temperature sensor assembly. The blanket may further include a thermal insulation layer disposed between the temperature sensor assembly and the first layer of water resistant material. The temperature sensor assembly may provide input of an average temperature over a portion of a surface area of the heater to a temperature controller, when the heater and sensor assembly are coupled to the controller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2010
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Applicant: HOT DOG INTERNATIONAL LLC
    Inventors: Scott D. Augustine, Scott A. Entenman, Keith J. Leland, Gordon D. Lawrence
  • Patent number: 7772528
    Abstract: A heated body mat realized by an assembly covered by a protective enclosure. The assembly has a major dimension (e.g., length) and includes a heat reflecting layer disposed between a top foam panel and a bottom foam panel. A resistive heater element is arranged in a single loop that provides coverage over a substantial part of the area of the mat. A plurality of thermostats (preferably 3 or more) are integrated as part of the loop and arranged in a series configuration being spaced apart along the major dimension of the assembly. Each one of said thermostats is normally closed and opens at one or more predetermined threshold temperatures to thereby open the current path loop realized by the resistive heater element. In use, electric power is supplied to the resistive heater element to generate heat that is emitted from the mat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Inventors: Symone Lewin, Gordon B. Bart
  • Patent number: 7723651
    Abstract: A heating pad is disclosed. The heating pad has a heating line received in a bag, wherein a plurality of heat preservation elements are slipped over the heating line; when the heating pad is electrified, a controller controls the temperature of the heating line for heat applying on a human body; when a electric source is turned off, the heating line stops being heated up, the heat preservation elements keeps on scattering heat outwards to extend the time of heat applying. The heat preservation elements can be ceramic pipes able to emit far infrared ray, so that during heat applying, the ceramic pipes can emit far infrared ray to get an effect of health care.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Inventor: Shuh-Tsai Yang
  • Patent number: 7718923
    Abstract: A sunshade for an automobile placed upon a dashboard in the interior of the vehicle provides a reflective outer surface to deflect heat and sunlight through the windshield into a vehicle during hot weather conditions and also provides the outer surface with heat strip elements when enabled during cold weather to provide a radiant heat to the windshield to prevent ice build-up on the windshield maintaining a clear windshield during freezing temperatures, the heat strip elements drawings a low voltage current from a rechargeable battery supply or a 12 volt DC power from a cigarette lighter plug, or both.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Inventors: Scott P. Hansen, Mary J. Hunt-Hansen
  • Patent number: 7714256
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a heating element for heating at least one surface contacted at times by a user, with a plurality of heating conductors or heating conductor sections that are directly or indirectly connected electrically to one another, at least in part by mutual contact, with at least one heating conductor or heating conductor section which, upon exceeding a permissible maximum temperature, at least temporarily loses its electrical conductivity at least in part. It is provided that the electrical resistance of at least two heating conductors or heating conductor sections is dependent at least in part on its mechanical strain, that these heating conductors or heating conductor sections are electrically connected to one another in parallel, and that they are separated from one another at least in sections by a spacing zone in order to prevent electrical connection between them in spacing zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: W.E.T. Automotive Systems AG
    Inventor: Michael Weiss
  • Patent number: 7709770
    Abstract: A heating device is presented for surface heating of a body so as to maintain a required temperature of the body. The heating device comprises an electrical heating element and a power source for supplying a required voltage thereto. The heating element comprises first and second conductors, wherein the first conductor is made of a material with relatively high specific resistivity as compared to that of the second conductor, and the second conductor is made of a material with high heat conductivity. The first and second conductors are accommodated in spaced-apart parallel relationship along their lengths such that, when they are connected to the power source, electric currents flow in the conductors in opposite directions, and magnetic fields created in the vicinity of the first and second conductors are completely compensated. The first conductor thus serves as a heater and the second conductor as a heat diffuser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: HTTP—Hypothermia Therapy Ltd.
    Inventor: David Bikhovsky
  • Publication number: 20100051599
    Abstract: An insulated bag uses heating elements to heat golf balls contained in an insulated compartment. Another compartment contains a small battery pack to power the heating elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventor: Louis DeNitto
  • Patent number: 7663076
    Abstract: The invention relates to conductive materials particularly to serve as a heater. Heating means formed by or with electrically conductive materials are known and particularly effective for its flexibility is that sold under the British, Community and US Registered Trade Mark INDITHERM. Conductive rails are used to provide electrical connection to a source of power that need to have a commensurate flexibility, and the object of the invention is to ensure the maintenance of power to the full length of the conductive rail. This objective, is met by a construction comprising spaced first rails for the supply and return of electrical power, the said rails having a flexibility compatible with the semi-conductive material, and there being a supplementary rail attached to each first rail along the length thereof, the supplementary rails being flexible and having strength characteristics greater than those of the first rails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: Inditherm PLC
    Inventor: Colin Roy Tarry
  • Publication number: 20100024185
    Abstract: A heat blanket for use in the repair of aircraft outer casings and method for using the heat blanket are provided. The heat blanket has an inner and outer layer of thermally conductive material. A series of heating elements are disposed between the inner and outer layers of materials and arranged into a plurality of heating zones. A control apparatus has a plurality of temperature sensors, each of which corresponds to one of the plurality of heating zones. The control apparatus provides power to the heating elements to control temperature for each respective zone as a function of sensed temperature. The blanket is shaped to cover a portion of the engine nacelle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2007
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Applicant: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventor: Patrick B. Mayabb
  • Patent number: 7652226
    Abstract: An electrically heated window glass is provided, in which an electric power load may be suppressed by causing a consumed electric power for energizing a heater to be variable depending on the purpose of heating. The electrically heated window glass in accordance with the present invention comprises two glass panels laminated to each other; a plurality of heaters sandwiched between the two glass panels for heating the glass panels, the heaters being positioned in such a manner that the heaters divide the surface of the laminated glass panels into plural parts; a plurality bus bars each provided at the end portions of each of the plurality of heaters for feeding thereto; and a changeover means for switching the connection between selected one of the plurality of bus bars and a DC power supply to heat the plurality of heaters in a series connected manner or parallel connected manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: Nippon Sheet Glass Company, Limited
    Inventors: Takashi Muromachi, Harunori Murakami
  • Patent number: 7626146
    Abstract: A heat trace assembly for heating a conduit is provided that comprises at least one preformed heat trace section adapted to be placed around at least a portion of the conduit and a connector secured to the heat trace section. The connector is adapted for coupling the heat trace section to an adjacent heat trace section, and the heat trace section and the connector have mating mechanical features to allow the heat trace section to be quickly connected to and disconnected from the conduit. Additionally, a heat trace junction is provided that preferably defines a cross configuration and comprises a plurality of arms extending from a central portion of the heat trace junction. The plurality of arms are deformable to conform to a junction within a conduit system. Thermal insulation jacket configurations are also provided in accordance with several embodiments of the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Watlow Electric Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Louis P. Steinhauser, Christopher C. Lanham
  • Patent number: 7622695
    Abstract: A multi-layered carrier comprising: a first layer; a jacket; a laminated fabric heater disposed between the first layer and the jacket, wherein the heater comprises a consolidated electrically conductive fabric layer, a plurality of bus bars, a first thermoplastic layer, and a second thermoplastic layer, wherein the first and second thermoplastic layers sandwich the consolidated electrically conductive fabric layer and the plurality of bus bars to form a fused single sheet; and a cavity formed from the assembly of the first layer, the jacket, and the heater; wherein the multi-layer carrier provides for the even distribution of heat throughout the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Inventors: Jay DiPucchio, Thomas J. Luck