Significant Heating Element Structure Or Composition Patents (Class 337/107)
  • Patent number: 11495424
    Abstract: A DC circuit breaker includes a case, two fixed contacts, two movable contacts, a bypass plate electrically connecting the two movable contacts, a moving block to move the bypass plate, a moving block biasing member to bias the moving block in a direction away from the fixed contacts, a thermally responsive member, a latch, a shutter, and a shutter biasing member. The thermally responsive member deforms when an installation surface equals or exceeds a prescribed temperature. The latch restricts movement of the moving block by locking the moving block when the thermally responsive member is in a pre-deformation state. The latch cancels the restriction of the movement the thermally responsive member deforms. The shutter is insertable between the fixed contacts and the movable contacts. The shutter biasing member constantly biases the shutter in a direction to be inserted between the fixed contacts and the movable contacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2022
    Assignee: UBUKATA INDUSTRIES CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Shigemi Satoh, Shigehisa Ishii
  • Patent number: 11284790
    Abstract: A Laparoscopic Visualization System comprising a sterile, self-contained, disposable apparatus used in medical procedures for heating and applying an anti-fog solution to the distal end of laparoscopes or surgical devices is presented. It additionally serves as an endoscopic lens protector and cleaner. An efficient heating and narrow range temperature control mechanism is used in combination with an anti-fog solution to provide clear visualization through a distal lens of the surgical device inserted into the system. The configuration prevents the anti-fog solution from spilling out of the system and is designed to also be used as a holder for the surgical scope, protecting the distal lens from impact with a shock absorbent outer shell, prior to, during, and after a medical procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2022
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Ricardo Alexander Gomez, Sandy Lawrence Heck, Eric William Conley
  • Patent number: 10935246
    Abstract: A separate heat absorbing mass is secured in co-planar abutment with a bimetal strip controlling a fireplace damper to absorb heat from the flue gases. The mass transfers heat to the bimetal strip during the OFF cycle thereby delaying the opening of the damper and increasing the heat retention and efficiency of the fireplace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2021
    Assignee: Miles Industries Ltd.
    Inventors: Calvin Tran, Ivan Scekic, Martin Miles
  • Patent number: 10617289
    Abstract: A Laparoscopic Visualization System comprising a sterile, self-contained, disposable apparatus used in medical procedures for heating and applying an anti-fog solution to the distal end of laparoscopes or surgical devices is presented. It additionally serves as an endoscopic lens protector and cleaner. An efficient heating and narrow range temperature control mechanism is used in combination with an anti-fog solution to provide clear visualization through a distal lens of the surgical device inserted into the system. The configuration prevents the anti-fog solution from spilling out of the system and is designed to also be used as a holder for the surgical scope, protecting the distal lens from impact with a shock absorbent outer shell, prior to, during, and after a medical procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2020
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Ricardo Alexander Gomez, Sandy Lawrence Heck, Eric William Conley
  • Patent number: 9960000
    Abstract: The present invention provides a protection device which provides a greater degree of freedom in a disposition of the bimetal switch as well as be able to more accurately control an actuation of the bimetal member of the bimetal switch. The protection device characterized in that the device comprises a bimetal switch wherein a first PTC member and a bimetal member are connected electrically in parallel with each other; and a second PTC member; and the bimetal member is disposed to be actuated by tripping of the second PTC member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2018
    Assignee: Littelfuse Japan G.K.
    Inventors: Masayuki Oohira, Katsuaki Suzuki, Arata Tanaka
  • Patent number: 9546740
    Abstract: A valve assembly (100) is provided. The valve assembly (100) comprises a housing (101) with a plurality of fluid ports (102-105d). The housing (101) includes an actuator chamber (107) configured to receive a fluid. The housing (101) also includes a valve chamber (108) configured to receive the fluid after flowing through the actuator chamber (107). The valve assembly (100) further includes one or more shape memory alloy elements (109a-109d) located within the actuator chamber (108). One or more valve seals (220a-220d) located within the valve chamber (108) are provided. The shape memory alloy elements (109) are coupled to each of the valve seals (220a-220d) to selectively move the valve seals (220a-220d) between a first position and a second position upon heating the corresponding shape memory alloy element (109a-109d) above a transformation temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: FLUID AUTOMATION SYSTEMS S.A.
    Inventor: Nicolas Deperraz
  • Patent number: 9526409
    Abstract: A Laparoscopic Visualization System comprising a sterile, self-contained, disposable apparatus used in medical procedures for heating and applying an anti-fog solution to the distal end of laparoscopes or surgical devices is presented. It additionally serves as an endoscopic lens protector and cleaner. An efficient heating and narrow range temperature control mechanism is used in combination with an anti-fog solution to provide clear visualization through a distal lens of the surgical device inserted into the system. The configuration prevents the anti-fog solution from spilling out of the system and is designed to also be used as a holder for the surgical scope, protecting the distal lens from impact with a shock absorbent outer shell, prior to, during, and after a medical procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2016
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Ricardo Alexander Gomez, Sandy Lawrence Heck, Eric William Conley
  • Patent number: 8981891
    Abstract: A controllable electronic switch for, e.g., controlling power distribution comprises a deformable member such as a bimetal arm that can be deformed to break an electrical path. The deformable member may be anchored at one end and in controllable contact with an electrical conductor at the other end. A heating element, such as a coil, can be used to selectively heat the deformable member. The controllable electronic switch can alternatively comprise a deformable member that is terminated in a wedge-shaped member. When the deformable member bends in response to being heated, the wedge-shaped member forces apart a pair of contacts thus breaking an electrical path. The wedge-shaped member and/or associated structures may be configured as a cam mechanism with multiple latching positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: I/O Controls Corporation
    Inventor: Jeffrey Ying
  • Publication number: 20140225707
    Abstract: A heater apparatus is structured for use in a circuit interrupter having a thermal trip and includes a conductive device having a terminal and a heater that are co-formed with one another. The terminal includes a base and a support. The conductive device is formed from an individual metallic plate that is bent to form a number of plate elements. The base includes at least one plate element, and the heater includes at least another plate element, with the base and the heater being co-formed. A compression element is threadably receivable on the terminal and is structured to compressively retain an electrical conductor between the compression element and the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2013
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Applicant: EATON CORPORATION
    Inventor: David C. Turner
  • Patent number: 8461956
    Abstract: An over-current protection device includes a first conductive member, a second conductive member, a resistive device and a temperature sensing switch. The first conductive member includes a first electrode foil and a second electrode foil those are formed on a same plane. The resistive device is laminated between the first conductive member and the second conductive member and exhibits positive temperature coefficient or negative temperature coefficient behavior. The temperature sensing switch can switch the first electrode foil and the second electrode foil between electrically conductive status and current-restriction status, e.g., open circuit, according to temperature variation. The threshold temperature of the temperature sensing switch is lower than the trip temperature of the resistive device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Polytronics Technology Corp.
    Inventors: Chun Teng Tseng, David Shau Chew Wang
  • Patent number: 8264317
    Abstract: A protector for a three-phase electric motor has a container with a housing and a metal plate secured thereto. A protrusion is provided in the housing. Three conductive terminal pins, each with a fixed contact, protrude into the housing through the metal plate. A thermally responsive plate is connected to the three moveable contacts. The thermally responsive plate is dish shaped and reverses its direction of curvature at a predetermined temperature. Three moveable contacts are secured to the thermally responsive plate. An elastic member extends between the protrusion and the thermally responsive plate. A rotation member prevents the thermally responsive plate from rotating, thereby maintaining the moveable contacts in opposition to the fixed contacts. The conductive terminal pins are located at a neutral point side of phase windings of a three-phase motor so that AC current flowing into the three-phase motor is interrupted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Ubukata Industries Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Isao Higashikata
  • Patent number: 8111523
    Abstract: A wiring board for use in mounting an electronic component includes a switch element portion interposed in a signal transmission line including a wiring layer linked to an electrode terminal of the electronic component. The switch element portion has such a structure as to change the shape thereof depending on a temperature, and to disconnect the signal transmission line when the temperature exceeds a predetermined temperature. A conductor layer which constitutes a portion of the signal transmission line is formed at the bottom of a cavity formed in an electronic component mounting surface side of the wiring board. One end of the switch element portion is fixedly connected to the wiring layer, and another end thereof is in contact with the conductor layer when the temperature is equal to or lower than the predetermined temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: Shinko Electric Industries Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masahiro Sunohara, Kei Murayama
  • Patent number: 7961073
    Abstract: A controllable electronic switch for, e.g., controlling power distribution comprises a deformable member such as a bimetal arm that can be deformed to break an electrical path. The deformable member may be anchored at one end and in controllable contact with an electrical conductor at the other end. A heating element, such as a coil, can be used to selectively heat the deformable member. The controllable electronic switch can alternatively comprise a deformable member that is terminated in a wedge-shaped member. When the deformable member bends in response to being heated, the wedge-shaped member forces apart a pair of contacts thus breaking an electrical path. The wedge-shaped member and/or associated structures may be configured as a cam mechanism with multiple latching positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: Yingco Electronic Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey Ying
  • Patent number: 7887907
    Abstract: In accordance with the invention, thin bodies of plastic, such as sheets or strands, with substantially different thermal coefficients of expansion are laminated together to make plastic bodies which move in response to heat. The movable plastic bodies can be secured to a suitable base to make a variety of devices for amusement, temperature monitoring and display. Applications for amusement include a thermally blooming flower, a solar activated butterfly, and curling hair for a doll. Applications for temperature monitoring include safety lids for drinking cups, sunlight blockers and ventilators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Genuine Ideas, LLC
    Inventor: Greg E. Blonder
  • Patent number: 7800478
    Abstract: A heater assembly is provided for an electrical switching apparatus. The heater assembly includes a heater element and an elongated bimetal. The heater element includes first and second ends, an intermediate portion disposed therebetween and an aperture disposed proximate the first end. The elongated bimetal includes opposing first and second ends, and is movable between first and second positions corresponding respectively to the separable contacts of the electrical switching apparatus being closeable, and to the first end of the elongated bimetal cooperating with a trip bar to cause an operating mechanism to open the separable contacts. The second end of the elongated bimetal is coupled to the intermediate portion of the heater element. When the elongated bimetal is disposed in the first position, the first end of the elongated bimetal extends beyond the upper surface of the first end of the heater element into the aperture of the heater element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Craig J. Puhalla, David E. Little, Kelly J. McCarthy, Robert W. Mueller, Wilbert E. Lindsay
  • Patent number: 7688175
    Abstract: A controllable electronic switch for, e.g., controlling power distribution comprises a deformable member such as a bimetal arm that can be deformed to break an electrical path. The deformable member may be anchored at one end and in controllable contact with an electrical conductor at the other end. A heating element, such as a coil, can be used to selectively heat the deformable member. The controllable electronic switch can alternatively comprise a deformable member that is terminated in a wedge-shaped member. When the deformable member bends in response to being heated, the wedge-shaped member forces apart a pair of contacts thus breaking an electrical path. The wedge-shaped member and/or associated structures may be configured as a cam mechanism with multiple latching positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: I/O Controls Corporation
    Inventor: Jeffrey Ying
  • Patent number: 7301434
    Abstract: A motor protector (10) is shown having an elongated generally cup-shaped metallic housing (12) formed by a top wall (12a) and a side wall (12b) extending down from the perimeter of the top walls, the free end of which is welded to a header (14). The side and top wall have a rounded junction (12c) and a calibration rill (12e) is formed in the top wall from one end of the housing and through the rounded junction. An elongated thermostatic disc (16) is mounted in the housing and has a movable electrical contact (20) mounted at one end to be movable into and out of engagement with a stationary electrical contact (34) that is in turn mounted on a heater (26). A ceramic insulator plate (32) is interposed between the heater and the header.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Assignee: Sensata Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Michelle Pisuk, Brian Leary, Savithri Subramanyam, Keith E. Crowe, Sameer Masurkar
  • Patent number: 7298239
    Abstract: A thermal protector (1) including two fixed contacts (13A, 13B) provided at the end part of conduction terminal pins (5A, 5B) projecting into a metallic enclosed container (100), a support (6) arranged in a case, an oscillatory heating resistor (8) supported by the support and having two movable contacts (9A, 9B) facing the fixed contacts, and a heat responsive body (10) interposed between the heating resistor and the support and coupled with the heating resistor through a coupler (12). When an overcurrent flows through the heating resistor to generate heat therefrom and the temperature of the heat responsive body reaches a set level, the heat responsive body is inverted. Inverting motion of the heat responsive body is transmitted to the heating resistor through the coupler, and the current path is opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: Ubukata Industries Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Takuya Yamada
  • Patent number: 7265652
    Abstract: A controllable electronic switch for, e.g., controlling power distribution comprises a deformable member such as a bimetal arm that can be deformed to break an electrical path. The deformable member may be anchored at one end and in controllable contact with an electrical conductor at the other end. A heating element, such as a coil, can be used to selectively heat the deformable member. The controllable electronic switch can alternatively comprise a deformable member that is terminated in a wedge-shaped member. When the deformable member bends in response to being heated, the wedge-shaped member forces apart a pair of contacts thus breaking an electrical path. The wedge-shaped member and/or associated structures may be configured as a cam mechanism with multiple latching positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2007
    Assignee: Yingco Electronic Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey Ying
  • Patent number: 7112362
    Abstract: In accordance with the invention, thin bodies of plastic, such as sheets or strands, with substantially different thermal coefficients of expansion are laminated together to make plastic bodies which move in response to heat. The movable plastic bodies can be secured to a suitable base to make a variety of devices for amusement, temperature monitoring and display. Applications for amusement include a thermally blooming flower, a solar activated butterfly, and curling hair for a doll. Applications for temperature monitoring include safety lids for drinking cups, sunlight blockers and ventilators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Inventor: Greg E. Blonder
  • Patent number: 7102481
    Abstract: A low current motor protector (10, 10?) has an oblong metal housing (12) defining a switch chamber and formed with an open end. The housing has opposing flange portions extending transversely from the open end. Spaced apart lid portions (18a, 18b; 18a?, 18b?) are received on and clamped to the flange portions with an electrically insulating gasket (16) having a central opening interposed between the housing and the lid parts. The lid parts are formed with a recessed ceramic heater seat disposed in the switch chamber having spaced apart contact shelves (18f) which receives a ceramic heater (20) which is maintained in place and provided with contact force by a spring clip (22, 22?) attached to one of the lid parts. In another embodiment a coil heater (30) is electrically connected between lid parts (28a, 28b) and is disposed in a recess formed by a dome configuration (28f).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: Sensata Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Jan J. Stiekel, Young-Hwan Park
  • Patent number: 6825750
    Abstract: A controllable electronic switch for, e.g., controlling power distribution comprises a deformable member such as a bimetal arm that can be deformed to break an electrical path. The deformable member may be anchored at one end and in controllable contact with an electrical conductor at the other end. A heating element, such as a coil, can be used to selectively heat the deformable member. The controllable electronic switch can alternatively comprise a deformable member that is terminated in a wedge-shaped member. When the deformable member bends in response to being heated, the wedge-shaped member forces apart a pair of contacts thus breaking an electrical path. The wedge-shaped member and/or associated structures may be configured as a cam mechanism with multiple latching positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Assignee: Yingco Electronic Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey Ying
  • Patent number: 6803850
    Abstract: A heater element for use in a circuit breaker whose initial shape can be varied to achieve various trip ratings for different circuit breakers. The material composition of the heater element and the bimetal strip indirectly heated by the heater element are kept the same. The electrical resistance presented to current passed through the heater element is varied by varying the shape of the heater element. The shape of one heater element relative to another heater element varies according to one geometric parameter. The geometric parameter may be surface geometry, thickness, or cross-sectional area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Assignee: Square D Company
    Inventor: David Norman Richter
  • Patent number: 6636141
    Abstract: A controllable electronic switch for, e.g., controlling power distribution comprises a bimetal member anchored at one end and in controllable contact with an electrical conductor at the other end. An incoming power wire is connected to the bimetal member near the contact point with the electrical conductor. A heating element, such as a coil, is coupled to the bimetal member, and is controlled by a switch control signal. When the switch control signal is not asserted, the heating element is inactive, and power is delivered through the incoming power wire across the end of the bimetal member to the electrical conductor, from which it can be further distributed to the load. When the switch control signal is asserted, the heating element heats up causing the bimetal to bend until the contact with the electrical conductor is broken. The electrical path from the incoming power wire to the electrical conductor (and hence, to the load) is then broken.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Assignee: Yingco Electronic Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey Ying
  • Patent number: 6417757
    Abstract: The invention relates to a thermal bend actuator 7 including: a first anchor portion 9 for securing to a fixed substrate 2; a first thermally conductive active beam member 10 secured at a proximal end to said first anchor portion 9 and extending to a movable distal end; a second beam member 12 similarly anchored at a proximal end to said first anchor portion 9 so as to extend parallel to said first active beam member 10, each of said first and second beam members being directly or indirectly interconnected at their respective proximal ends remote said first anchor portion 9; wherein said first thermally conductive active beam member 10 is configured to define a labyrinthine conductive pathway 14 having a combined effective length in a direction extending between said fixed proximal end and said movable distal end that exceeds twice the effective direct linear path therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Assignee: Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Kia Silverbrook
  • Patent number: 6229121
    Abstract: An integrated thermal buckling micro switch is made by using electromechanical technology to integrate sensors and actuators on a single chip. An epitaxial chip is used and etched to form a mesa structure on a thin silicon film, whereon at least a thermal sensing element and a heating element are disposed. When an output signal of the thermal sensing element is greater than a pre-set critical value in a control circuit, the heating element is driven to heat, so that the thin silicon film will create a thermal buckling effect that makes the mesa structure touch at least one contact point on the baseboard to cut off or effectuate the circuit. On the contrary, when heating is ceased, the mesa structure will return back to the original normal state, and thereby, switching and controlling an external load can be achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Industrial Technology Research Institute
    Inventors: Ruei-Hung Jang, Ming-Jye Tsai, Lieh-Hsi Lo
  • Patent number: 6133817
    Abstract: A temperature-dependent switch 10 has two connection electrodes 12, 13 mounted on an insulating support 11 as well as a switching mechanism 27 that, as a function of its temperature, makes an electrically conductive connection between the two connection electrodes 12, 13. A resistance element 19 is connected to the two connection electrodes 12, 13 electrically parallel to the switching mechanism 27 and sits on the outside of the insulating support 11 and is retained by it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Assignee: Thermik Geratebau GmbH
    Inventors: Marcel Hofsass, Michael Becher, Edwin Guttinger
  • Patent number: 5936510
    Abstract: A thermostat includes a case having a sealed interior and an exterior. A contact extends from the sealed interior to the exterior. The contact is fixed with respect to the casing and has an interior contact position. A first blade extends from the sealed interior to the exterior and has an interior end. The interior end of the first blade moves between a first position where the interior end of first blade contacts the interior contact position of the contact and a second position where the interior end of the first blade is spaced from the contact position end of the contact. A separator is disposed between the first blade and the contact in the interior of the case. The separator is made of an insulating material. The separator has a first side facing the contact and a second side facing the first blade. A first conductive contact pad is disposed on the first side of the separator. A second conductive contact pad is disposed on the second side of the separator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Assignee: Portage Electric Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Brandon L. Wehl, James M. Petro
  • Patent number: 5892429
    Abstract: A switch for opening and closing an electrical circuit comprises a temperature-dependent switching mechanism and a housing containing a switching mechanism. The housing has an electrically conductive lower housing part and an electrically conductive cover part electrically insulated from and closing off the lower housing part. The electrical circuit is to be connected to the lower housing part and the cover part. As a function of temperature the switching mechanism electrically connects the lower housing part to the cover part. At least one resistor is provided directly on an inner surface of the housing such that the resistor is switched in series with the switching mechanism between the cover part and lower housing part, as a function of temperature, when the switching mechanism is in a first switch position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1999
    Inventor: Marcel Hofsass
  • Patent number: 5808539
    Abstract: A snap acting thermostatic disc assembly having a thermostatic disc element (20) responsive both to current and to ambient temperature is provided with an electrical contact (22) on a face surface on the disc element at one end thereof and a weld slug (24) at an opposite end of the disc element and has a fulcrum member (28, 28', 28") on the opposite face surface of the disc element in alignment with the weld slug. The fulcrum member is arranged to move the bending location of the disc element member away from the heat affected zone of the thermostatic metal caused by welding. In a second embodiment the snap acting disc element is used as an ambient temperature responsive control member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Assignee: Texas Instruments Incorporated
    Inventor: Sheldon S. White
  • Patent number: 5804798
    Abstract: A thermal protector having a fixed plate with a fixed contact point at one end, a movable plate having a movable contact point at a position corresponding to the fixed contact point. A bimetal plate which bends when a temperature exceeds a specified level deforms movable plate so as separate the contacts. There are first and second terminals connecting the fixed and movable plates with an external circuit and a heating element connected to the first and second terminals to maintain an open-circuited state. The heating element is flexible and is arranged so as to be deformed following the deformation of the bimetal plate and to always physically contact always with the bimetal plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Assignee: Uchiya Thermostat Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hideaki Takeda
  • Patent number: 5721525
    Abstract: A temperature controller (10) having bimetallic switching device (15) which switches at an excess temperature and a heating resistor (23) in the same circuit as this which has the effect of a self-locking function. The heating resistor (23) is designed on a film (22) which is provided for thermal and/or electrical insulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 24, 1998
    Inventor: Marcel Hofsass
  • Patent number: 5719736
    Abstract: A heat flow detector is described which measures a predetermined rate of heat flow in its surroundings, the surroundings being in the proximity of a recessed incandescent fixture which is designed to operate safely in the designated environment. Should the operating environment change for the fixture it will be sensed by the heat flow detector. If the operating environment becomes more dangerous so that a fire or other damage may occur the heat flow sensor will turn the incandescent lamp off and on at a slow rate to indicate the changed operating environment. The heat flow detector will cause a slow turn off and on if an oversize lamp is inserted in the incandescent fixture. The heat flow detector will thus prevent an overloaded condition due to an oversize bulb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 17, 1998
    Assignee: Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Stanley S. Brenner, James N. Pearse, George E. Johnson
  • Patent number: 5675307
    Abstract: A thin PTC device that includes a layer of PTC material sandwiched between a pair of metal plates is provided with an increased effective thickness by outwardly extending flanges on at least one of the metal plates. This allows a close fit of the PTC device in a pocket that otherwise would be too large for holding the PTC device properly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 7, 1997
    Assignee: Therm-O-Disc, Incorporated
    Inventors: John J. Krimm, Jeffrey A. West, Robert L. Newman
  • Patent number: 5615072
    Abstract: A temperature-sensitive switch (10) for protecting electrical parts against excess temperature and/or excess current comprises a bimetallic switching device (14) which opens or closes its contacts in response to an excess temperature. Said switching device (14) is contained in a casing (17) having a pot-like bottom part (18) and cover (19). A first heating resistor (15) is connected in circuit with the switching device (14) such that it locks the switching device (14) in a self-holding manner when said switching device (14) is actuated in response to an excess temperature. A second heating resistor (16) is connected in circuit with said switching device (14) and produces heat in response to a current flow therethrough. When an excess current flows through the second heating resistor (16) the switching device (14) is actuated. Both, the first and second heating resistors (15, 16) are integrated in said cover (19) of said casing (17).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 25, 1997
    Assignee: Thermik Geratebau GmbH
    Inventors: Marcel Hofsass, Dieter Buhling
  • Patent number: 5576683
    Abstract: An electrical resistance heater is positioned adjacent to a bimetal disc in a thermostat for depressing the temperatures at which the disc snaps between oppositely bowed positions to open and close a switch. A thermal insulator interposed between the heater and the thermostat housing protects the housing against overheating and properly locates the heater relative to the disc. A dielectric film on the surface of the disc that faces toward the heater insures adequate electrical spacing between the heater and disc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 19, 1996
    Assignee: Therm-O-Disc, Incorporated
    Inventor: Derek J. Rose
  • Patent number: 5367279
    Abstract: An overcurrent protection device 10 has a fixed 26 and a movable 32 contact electrically connected to a pair of terminals 14, 16 and a snap acting bimetallic member 34 which is responsive to a thermally resistive element 28, connected in series with the contacts between the terminals to cause the contacts to move from an engaged position to a disengaged position. The device further includes a current bypass path 24 adapted to be connected in parallel with the thermally resistive element 28 and a second thermally responsive bimetal member 24 b to cause the electrical connection. Additionally, a heater block 18 can be provided between the terminals 14, 16 which has a resistance significantly higher than that of the thermal resistive element 28.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1994
    Assignee: Texas Instruments Incorporated
    Inventor: Akira Sakai
  • Patent number: 5233325
    Abstract: A thermostat including a heater without a positive temperature characteristic thermistor or an alumina substrate. The thermostat with a filmy heater includes two terminals (2a, 3a) to be connected with an external circuit, a fixed plate (2) connected with one of said terminals and on which a static contact point (2b) is mounted, a resilient plate (3) connected with the other of the two terminals and on which a movable contact point (3b) is mounted, a bimetal (5) which is so deformed, when temperature of the bimetal exceeds a predetermined temperature, to deform the resilient plate so that the movable contact point is separated from the static contact point, and heater (6) mounted in parallel with said fixed plate and the resilient plate. The heater is an electro-conductive film (6a) on an insulative film (6b), which is incorporated in the thermostat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1993
    Assignee: Uchiya Thermosatat Co.
    Inventor: Hideaki Takeda
  • Patent number: 5221915
    Abstract: A thermal protector includes a stationary electrode having a contact end connected to the top end of a zigzag plate heater and a snap-acting thermosensitive element having a movable electrode with a contact end connected thereto. The stationary electrode and the movable electrode are opposed to each other and the two contact ends can be open or closed. The stationary electrode and the movable electrode are fixed within a container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1993
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kensaku Ueda
  • Patent number: 5182538
    Abstract: The bimetal thermoswitch consists of an electrically insulating, flat carrier (1), at least two electric terminals (3, 4), which are secured to the carrier (1) and are respectively connected to a fixed contact (10), which is mounted on the carrier, and to a contact spring (8), which is secured at one end to the carrier (1) and at its other end carries a movable contact element (9), which cooperates with the fixed contact (10). The carrier (1) consists of an alumina ceramic slab.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1993
    Assignee: Limitor AG
    Inventor: Manfred K. Muller
  • Patent number: 5078115
    Abstract: A thermally and electrically conductive housing having a solid tip portion is shown mounting a heating element thermally and electrically coupled to the tip portion which in turn is electrically coupled to a switch mechanism mounted within the housing. The switch mechanism includes a thermostatic snap acting disc adapted to bias a movable electrical contact away from a stationary electrical contact at preselected temperatures. The housing is shown mounted in a carburetor of an automobile to contact energization of a honeycomb heater disposed in the carburetor, however; the device can be used in other locations where it is desired to maintain a body within a selected temperature range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1990
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1992
    Assignee: Texas Instruments Incorporated
    Inventors: Takahisa Yamashita, Kazuo Kayanuma, Yasushi Hibino
  • Patent number: 5048974
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a temperature measuring device including an alarm contact, in particular for motor vehicles, the device comprising a housing (10) which receives a bimetallic strip (20) and a thermoresistive element (150). According to the invention, a support (100) of electrically insulating material is provided to carry a contact stud (160), a contact blade (170), the thermoresistive element (150) interposed between the contact stud (160) and the contact blade (170), and a spring element (180), all in the form of a unitary module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 17, 1991
    Assignee: Jaeger
    Inventor: Christian Dupuy
  • Patent number: 5015985
    Abstract: A thermally responsive switch includes an elliptic dome-shaped receptacle, a support conductively secured at one of two ends to an inner surface of one of two ends of the receptacle in the direction of its length, a bimetallic thermally responsive element secured at one end to the other end of the support with the other end opposite to an inner surface of the other end of the receptacle in the direction of its length with a predetermined space interposed therebetween, the thermally responsive element carrying a movable contact on the other end, and a metallic lid secured to the open end of the receptacle so as to hermetically close the open end of the receptacle. The lid has a through-hole through which a terminal pin is disposed with an electrically insulative material charged in the through-hole. Alternatively, two terminal pins may be disposed through two through-holes respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 14, 1991
    Assignee: Susumu Ubukata
    Inventors: Susumu Ubukata, Yasukazu Mizutani
  • Patent number: 4887062
    Abstract: A thermal sensor assembly is shown as having a housing formed of first and second body sections with the first being a probe-like portion for introduction into a medium the temperature of which is to be monitored; a thermistor and an electrical switch are electrically isolated from each other and situated within the housing; the thermistor is in series with and between one of the body sections and a terminal which is connectable to associated circuitry external of the sensor assembly; the electrical switch is effective to close an electrical circuit as between the same one of the body sections and a second terminal which is connectable to additional associated circuitry external of the sensor assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1989
    Assignee: Hi-Stat Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Howard W. Bletz
  • Patent number: 4878038
    Abstract: Multiple embodiments of a device suitable for arrangement in a circuit for protection of components in the circuit are disclosed, the device of each embodiment including a temperature responsive electrical regulating component including a conductive polymer or ceramic material having an electrical regulating capability dependent on temperature and at least one series connected switch including trip means also responsive to temperature for opening and closing the circuit in a reliable manner, the device being adapted for connection in the circuit to be protected. The various embodiments include different arrangements of the temperature responsive electrical regulating component and the switch. Certain of the embodiments include a second series connected switch of similar construction. The conductive polymer or ceramic material can be of a variety of types for performing different electrical regulating functions within the circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1987
    Date of Patent: October 31, 1989
    Inventor: James T. Tsai
  • Patent number: 4862132
    Abstract: A bimetal switch 1 has an insulating base 2 on which a contact spring 3 is arranged, this contact spring having at its unattached end 4 a moving contact 5. In its center area 6, the contact spring 3 supports the bimetal element that activates it. A fixed contact 8 that works in conjunction with the moving contact 5 is arranged on the insulating base and the heating resistor is installed beneath the center area 6 of the contact spring 3. In order to develop a bimetal switch of this kind such that it is simpler to produce and at the same time operates more effectively, the heating resistor 9 is configured as a foil resistor that is arranged on that side of the insulating base that faces the contact spring 3 so as to be flat and in thermal contact with the base, this then forming a laminated body with the insulating base 2.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1989
    Assignee: Inter Control Hermann Kohler Elektrik GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Walter Hollweck
  • Patent number: 4862306
    Abstract: A motor protector and starter particularly suited for refrigeration compressor motors are mounted in the recess of a first housing portion with their resilient female sockets disposed in alignment with a pin receiving aperture. Leads are attached to terminals of the motor protector and starter components and directed through lead receiving apertures in the side wall of the first housing portion. A second housing portion is then snapped onto the first housing portion to provide a combination housing which can be installed on a compressor in a one-step on-line operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1989
    Assignee: Texas Instruments Incorporated
    Inventor: Richard J. Lisauskas
  • Patent number: 4849729
    Abstract: A temperature-sensitive switch with a casing having a pot-like lower part and a top part, whereby in the lower part is provided a bimetallic disk and under the action of the latter at least one movable contact part can be connected to a stationary opposite contact, so that it is possible to produce an electrical connection between the lower part, movable contact part and opposite contact part. Between the contact part and the lower part there is a fixed, electrically high-value connection provided by a resistor element, so that the temperature-sensitive switch does not automatically close again after opening unless a master switch is interrupted for the power supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1989
    Inventor: Peter Hofsass
  • Patent number: 4842419
    Abstract: A sensing device for monitoring engine coolant temperature comprises a two leaded thermistor, a single lead thermistor and a single lead bimetal switch in a compact shell. The switch and one thermistor are electrically grounded to the shell. A bimetal leaf is welded to the end of the shell and its free end extends to an adjustable central contact. A spring assembly biases the grounded thermistor against a shelf near the end of the shell. The leaf and the spring assembly are canted at an angle to conserve space. The other thermistor is supported by an insulated closure in one end of the shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1989
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: James E. Nietert
  • Patent number: 4839626
    Abstract: A power control device of the type including a bimetallic element electrically heated in the course of supplying power to a heatable device, a switch having spring contacts activatable by swing movement of the bimetallic element and a regulator for adjusting the switching point of the switch is provided with a heating element at the swing end of the bimetallic element and provision is made for application of power to the heating element independently of the supply of power to the heatable device. Parallel circuits exist, one supplying power to the heatable device and the other to the heating element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 13, 1989
    Assignee: Thermostat-und Schattgeratebau GmbH Co. KG
    Inventor: Walter Hollweck