Flash Chamber Patents (Class 392/399)
  • Patent number: 11781784
    Abstract: A heater system includes a heater bundle having a plurality of heater assemblies and a plurality of power conductors. More than one of the heater assemblies includes a plurality of heater units, and more than one of the heater units defines at least one independently controlled heating zone. The plurality of power conductors are electrically connected to the independently controlled heating zones. The heater system further includes means for determining temperature, and a power supply device including a controller configured to modulate power to the independently controlled heating zones through the power conductors based on the determined temperature to provide a desired power output along a length of more than one of the heater assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2023
    Assignee: WATLOW ELECTRIC MANUFACTURING COMPANY
    Inventors: Mark Everly, Louis Steinhauser, Scott Boehmer
  • Patent number: 10941516
    Abstract: An electrical household appliance includes a base for producing steam having a steam generator including a boiling chamber and a liquid reservoir supplying the boiling chamber by gravity, the liquid flowing by gravity from the reservoir toward the boiling chamber until the liquid level in the boiling chamber reaches an equilibrium level, called the reference level, at which the liquid level in the appliance prevents air from entering the reservoir, the boiling chamber including a steam outlet through which steam can escape toward a work tool, such as a smoothing brush, and a communication opening connected to a pipe having an evacuation opening closed with a removable stopper, wherein the pipe is supplied with liquid from the reservoir via a supply duct that leads to the pipe at the level of an inlet opening provided above a particle-retention cavity arranged in the lower part of the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2021
    Inventors: Maxime Javit, Dominique Gelus
  • Patent number: 10918754
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to systems and methods for the application of vaporized chemicals in the sterilization of medical products. For example, embodiments of the present disclosure may relate to systems and methods for the terminal sterilization of medical products using vaporized hydrogen peroxide (VHP). Embodiments of the present disclosure may relate to, e.g., systems and methods for the terminal sterilization of medical products, such as pre-filled syringes (PFS).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2021
    Assignee: Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
    Inventor: Philip Stephen Shodder
  • Patent number: 10905786
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to systems and methods for the application of vaporized chemicals in the sterilization of medical products. For example, embodiments of the present disclosure may relate to systems and methods for the terminal sterilization of medical products using vaporized hydrogen peroxide (VHP). Embodiments of the present disclosure may relate to, e.g., systems and methods for the terminal sterilization of medical products, such as pre-filled syringes (PFS).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2021
    Assignee: Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
    Inventor: Philip Stephen Shodder
  • Patent number: 10843455
    Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure relate to methods and apparatuses for printing and curing energy curable inks printed on a substrate having an onset temperature Tonset (C°). The printing systems may include a printing station and a light source. During operation, the printing station deposits energy curable ink onto a first surface of the substrate to define a printed region, and the light source directs ultraviolet light onto the first surface of the substrate to define an illumination zone on the first surface of the substrate. The substrate is advanced in a machine direction to advance the printed region through the illumination zone to cure the energy curable ink. While the printed region advances through the illumination zone, the ultraviolet light heats the substrate from an initial temperature Tin (C°) entering the illumination zone to a maximum temperature Tmax (C°), wherein Tmax (C°)?Tonset (C°).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2020
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: John Andrew Strasemeier, Hui Yang
  • Patent number: 10801159
    Abstract: A water tube is adapted for use in a steamer. The steamer has a steam chamber and a heating plate that is disposed under the steam chamber. The water tube includes a tubular main body, a dividing body, and a plurality of ribs. The main body defines a channel extending in a flowing direction. The channel has an inlet portion, and an outlet portion that is opposite to and disposed downstream of the inlet portion, and that is adapted to extend into the steam chamber. The dividing body is inserted into the outlet portion of the channel. The ribs extend from the dividing body to the main body, and cooperate with the dividing body to divide the outlet portion of the channel into a plurality of outlet holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2020
    Assignee: TSANN KUEN (ZHANGZHOU) ENTERPRISE CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Chih-Jung Pan, Ruifeng Cai, Zhenxing Zheng
  • Patent number: 10018078
    Abstract: Apparatus for recovering energy from water is disclosed. Water is heated by application of electrical energy to heaters and contacting the water with the heaters in a manner and under pressure and temperature conditions such that it is instantaneously converted to gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2018
    Inventor: Richard E. Aho
  • Publication number: 20150128965
    Abstract: An electronic vapour provision device comprising a battery assembly 8 and a vaporiser 24, wherein the battery assembly 8 comprises a power cell 10 and a computer 12, the vaporiser 24 is releasably connectable to the battery assembly 8 and the computer 12 comprises a computer processor 16 and a memory 18; wherein the computer 12 is configured to detect whether the vaporiser 24 is connected to the battery assembly 8; the battery assembly 8 further comprises a capacitor 38; and the computer 12 is configured to first charge the capacitor 38 and then detect whether a vaporiser 24 is connected to the battery assembly 8 by measuring whether the capacitor 38 is discharged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2013
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Applicant: NICOVENTURES HOLDINGS LIMITED
    Inventor: Christopher Lord
  • Publication number: 20150128977
    Abstract: An exemplary atomizing assembly includes a heating component, a holder, an electrode, and a cover. The heating component includes a liquid conducting element and a heating element in contact with the liquid conducting element. The holder includes two arms extending from a first end thereof The two arms and the cover cooperatively define a receiving space. The heating component is received in the receiving space. The electrode is arranged in the holder and is insulated from the holder. Two ends of the heating element are connected with the holder and the electrode respectively. The holder further includes a connection part arranged at an opposite second end, and the connection part is configured for detachably engaging with an external component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2014
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Inventors: YONGHAI LI, ZHONGLI XU, HONGYONG LUO
  • Patent number: 9002183
    Abstract: Modularized, superheated steam generators comprise a steam module (46), a thermocouple module (41), and an electrode module (45) assembled within a containment enclosure (66). The multi-stage steam module (46) comprises a plurality of first stage pressure vessels (77) surrounding and feeding a second stage pressure vessel (78). The steam module (46) is coaxially surrounded by insulation (48) disposed within a cylindrical shroud (72). The electrode module (45) radiantly heats the steam module with resistive heating elements (119). The thermocouple module (41) includes thermocouples monitoring first stage temperatures within and between pressure vessels (77). PLC computer SCADA software (600) operates the generators. Thermocouple data is analyzed to control heater temperatures, the water feeding system (340), and outputted steam temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Trimeteor Oil and Gas Corporation
    Inventors: Richard B Graibus, Jimmy L Turner, Charles T McCullough, Dennis K Williams, Edward L Sulitis
  • Patent number: 9002184
    Abstract: Modularized, superheated steam generators comprise a steam module (46), a thermocouple module (41), and an electrode module (45) assembled within a containment enclosure (66). The multi-stage steam module (46) comprises a plurality of first stage pressure vessels (77) surrounding and feeding a second stage pressure vessel (78). The steam module (46) is coaxially surrounded by insulation (48) disposed within a cylindrical shroud (72). The electrode module (45) radiantly heats the steam module with resistive heating elements (119). The thermocouple module (41) includes thermocouples monitoring first stage temperatures within and between pressure vessels (77). PLC computer SCADA software (600) operates the generators. Thermocouple data is analyzed to control heater temperatures, the water feeding system (340), and outputted steam temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Trimeteor Oil and Gas Corporation
    Inventors: Richard B Graibus, Jimmy L Turner, Charles T McCullough, Dennis K Williams, Edward L Sulitis
  • Patent number: 8755679
    Abstract: A liquid material vaporizer comprises a gas-liquid mixing section for mixing a liquid material and a carrier gas to generate a gas-liquid mixture, and a heating type vaporizing section for vaporizing the gas-liquid mixture from the gas-liquid mixing section and exhausting outside the gas generated by the vaporization with assistance of the carrier gas, wherein the vaporizing section is configured with an arrangement of one or a plurality of flat plates formed in a spiral shape by an inwardly twisting path. Such an arrangement provides an excellent liquid material vaporizer capable of, even if a liquid material composed of a plurality of materials having different boiling points is vaporized, preventing a residue from being generated, and performing the vaporization in a preferable manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Horiba STEC, Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ichiro Nishikawa, Takeshi Kawano
  • Patent number: 8734736
    Abstract: An article of laboratory glassware for directing the flow of chemical materials is described. The article includes a glass manifold having a plurality of input ports and at least one output port, and a plurality of stopcocks. Each stopcock has an inlet port and an outlet port connected by a passageway through the plug. Each of the stopcock output ports is connected to one of the manifold input ports, and each of the stopcock input ports is connected with one end of a hollow glass tube, and the other end of the hollow glass tube is connected to a female ground glass joint. The output ports of the manifold are terminated to a male ground glass joint. Each plug is rotated by an electrical motor or a servo, and sensed by a sensor. The rotation of each rotating plug is controlled by a computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Inventor: Lester F. Ludwig
  • Patent number: 8731383
    Abstract: A method and system for delivering iodine gas is presented. The pure iodine gas flow can be at a controlled, known flow rate, and furthermore be held at a positive pressure in relation to a process chamber. In an exemplary embodiment, pure iodine gas is transported without the use of an inert carrier gas. This is facilitated in part by maintaining the iodine gas chamber at a higher pressure than the processing chamber. In one exemplary embodiment, an iodine vessel receives solid iodine supplied by an iodine fill source and is heated to produce pure iodine gas. In addition, a control system monitors and controls the operating conditions in the iodine vessel and maintains a positive pressure in the iodine vessel. The iodine delivery system may include a valve system configured to control the flow of iodine gas through the iodine delivery system and into a process chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Inventor: George M. Engle
  • Patent number: 8666235
    Abstract: The efficiency and effectiveness of apparatuses for vaporizing and combusting liquid fuel can be improved using thermal conductors. For example, an apparatus having a liquid fuel vaporizer and a combustion chamber can be characterized by a thermal conductor that conducts heat from the combustion chamber to the vaporizer. The thermal conductor can be a movable member positioned at an insertion depth within the combustion chamber that corresponds to a rate of heat conduction from the combustion chamber to the vaporizer. The rate of heat conduction can, therefore, be adjusted by positioning the movable member at a different insertion depth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Battelle Memorial Institute
    Inventors: Michael R. Powell, Greg A. Whyatt, Daniel T. Howe, Matthew S. Fountain
  • Patent number: 8634709
    Abstract: An aerosol generation system having an aerosol generator wherein a liquid formulation is at least partially volatilized in a capillary passage and discharged from the capillary passage to form an aerosol. The aerosol generation system includes a pumping unit adapted to supply a liquid formulation to the aerosol generator; and a fluidic element located between the pumping unit and the capillary passage of the aerosol generator, wherein the fluidic element increases backpressure of the liquid formulation as the liquid formulation enters the capillary passage of the aerosol generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Philip Morris USA Inc.
    Inventors: Niranjan Maharajh, Gene Faison, Sudarsan Srinivasan, David Ammann, Donald Brookman, Amit Limaye, Ronald Formosa, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8615166
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a steam generator and a washing machine therewith. The present invention provides a steam generator including a water chamber for holding water actually, the water chamber having a heater mounted thereto for heating the water, and a steam chamber for holding steam generated as the water is heated actually, wherein the water chamber has a vertical direction length (a vertical length) relatively greater than a horizontal direction length (a horizontal length).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Jae Mun Kim, Jong Deuk Bae, Heung Gi Kim, Ki Chul Woo, In Geun Ahn, Kyeong Hwan Kim, Kyung Chul Woo, Kyu Won Lee, Young Soo Kim, Ji Maeng Kim
  • Patent number: 8554064
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an apparatus and a method for vaporizing a liquid to form vapor preferably in a gas stream. The apparatus includes a composite metal structure, the structure comprising a plurality of passageways for providing heat to vaporize the liquid in the gas stream to form a gas/vapor mixture. A non-corrosive interface lies between the metal structure and the gas/vapor mixture, the interface being chemically inert to the gas/vapor mixture and the structure permitting heat to be conducted rapidly therethrough to vaporize the liquid. The apparatus further includes an inlet for the gas and an inlet for the liquid to be vaporized to flow into the plurality of passageways and an exit through which the gas/vapor mixture exits the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: MSP Corporation
    Inventors: Thuc Dinh, Yamin Ma, Benjamin Y. H. Liu
  • Patent number: 8554063
    Abstract: A steam generator includes a housing, a heating unit, an electrothermal unit and a one-way valve. The housing has a chamber and a water inlet. The heating unit includes a heating portion extending into the chamber. The heating portion has a first spiral channel thereon. One end of the heating portion is formed with a vaporization room and a steam outlet. The vaporization room has a second spiral channel therein to extend the time that the water and the wet steam pass through the heating unit so as to provide a complete heating and vaporizing function. Besides, by the one-way valve coupled to the water inlet, the steam generator of the present invention is simple in structure and cost-effective, providing an automatic water supply and re-heating function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Zweita International Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chih-Kao Hsu
  • Patent number: 8510909
    Abstract: Electrical household appliance comprising a base (1) for the generation of steam, having a liquid tank (6) mounted removably on a receiving socket (10) and having a steam generator located outside of said tank (6), the steam generator being supplied by gravity by a supply line from the tank (6) and having a steam outlet through which the steam can escape towards a work tool, such as a crease-removing brush, said supply line comprising an inlet orifice located on the receiving socket (10), and said tank (6) comprising a closed enclosure (61) having only one outlet orifice (52) which connects the said inlet orifice when the tank is placed on the receiving socket (10), which appliance is characterized in that said tank (6) connects leaktightly onto said receiving socket (10) and in that said appliance has a vent line admitting air to the outlet orifice (52) of the tank, said vent line having one end connected to the exterior which is higher than the outlet orifice (52) of the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Rowenta Werke GmbH
    Inventors: Dierk Spatz, Martin Krebs, Matthias Hahn
  • Publication number: 20130136434
    Abstract: Modularized, superheated steam generators comprise a steam module (46), a thermocouple module (41), and an electrode module (45) assembled within a containment enclosure (66). The multi-stage steam module (46) comprises a plurality of first stage pressure vessels (77) surrounding and feeding a second stage pressure vessel (78). The steam module (46) is coaxially surrounded by insulation (48) disposed within a cylindrical shroud (72). The electrode module (45) radiantly heats the steam module with resistive heating elements (119). The thermocouple module (41) includes thermocouples monitoring first stage temperatures within and between pressure vessels (77). PLC computer SCADA software (600) operates the generators. Thermocouple data is analyzed to control heater temperatures, the water feeding system (340), and outputted steam temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: Trimeteor Oil and Gas Corporation
    Inventor: Trimeteor Oil and Gas Corporation
  • Publication number: 20130136433
    Abstract: Modularized, superheated steam generators comprise a steam module (46), a thermocouple module (41), and an electrode module (45) assembled within a containment enclosure (66). The multi-stage steam module (46) comprises a plurality of first stage pressure vessels (77) surrounding and feeding a second stage pressure vessel (78). The steam module (46) is coaxially surrounded by insulation (48) disposed within a cylindrical shroud (72). The electrode module (45) radiantly heats the steam module with resistive heating elements (119). The thermocouple module (41) includes thermocouples monitoring first stage temperatures within and between pressure vessels (77). PLC computer SCADA software (600) operates the generators. Thermocouple data is analyzed to control heater temperatures, the water feeding system (340), and outputted steam temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: Trimeteor Oil and Gas Corporation
    Inventor: Trimeteor Oil and Gas Corporation
  • Publication number: 20130136435
    Abstract: Modularized, superheated steam generators comprise a steam module (46), a thermocouple module (41), and an electrode module (45) assembled within a containment enclosure (66). The multi-stage steam module (46) comprises a plurality of first stage pressure vessels (77) surrounding and feeding a second stage pressure vessel (78). The steam module (46) is coaxially surrounded by insulation (48) disposed within a cylindrical shroud (72). The electrode module (45) radiantly heats the steam module with resistive heating elements (119). The thermocouple module (41) includes thermocouples monitoring first stage temperatures within and between pressure vessels (77). PLC computer SCADA software (600) operates the generators. Thermocouple data is analyzed to control heater temperatures, the water feeding system (340), and outputted steam temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: Trimeteor Oil and Gas Corporation
    Inventor: Trimeteor Oil and Gas Corporation
  • Patent number: 8369695
    Abstract: Disclosed is a steam oven to cook food in a cooking chamber by use of steam. More particularly, disclosed is a steam generator of a steam oven, which can simplify the configuration of a device required to generate steam and is detachably attached to a cabinet to assure easy cleaning and washing thereof. The steam generator includes a single body having an inner space divided into a water supply compartment and a boiler compartment by a partition, the water supply compartment having a water pouring hole, and the boiler compartment having a heater and a steam discharge hole. Also, a water supply passage is defined between the water supply compartment and the boiler compartment. This configuration has the effects of achieving improved workability and reduced manufacturing costs of the steam generator and also, of overcoming a limit in the inner volume of a cooking chamber of the steam oven.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Yong-woo Lee, Jae-kyung Yang, Yang-kyeong Kim, Sung-il Park
  • Patent number: 8358919
    Abstract: A multi-stage, superheated steam generator for crude oil recovery comprises a plurality of radially spaced-apart first stage electric heating tanks that peripherally surround an inner, second stage electric steam tank. The steam tanks are secured within casing by a slack accommodating mounting comprising a downwardly projecting stub received within a rigid, tubular expansion sockets secured beneath each steam tank. A plurality of serpentine, electric resistive heating elements abut each steam tank. The elements have loop portions proximate the bottoms of each steam tank and vertical portions abutting each tank periphery. First stage tanks output steam to a manifold system that outputs to the second stage heater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: Trimeteor Oil and Gas Corporation
    Inventors: Jimmy L. Turner, Richard B. Graibus
  • Publication number: 20120230660
    Abstract: Provided are a method and device for generating a steam heating medium, the method involving generating, from a nozzle, Aqua-gas or low-temperature superheated steam that is a steam heating medium by operating an electrothermal-type generator or a steam-type generator. The method comprises the step of generating Aqua-gas by increasing a water supply amount in such a manner that an internal nozzle pressure takes on a constant value exceeding a saturated water vapor pressure of water at each internal nozzle pressure set temperature; or generating low-temperature superheated steam by reducing the water supply amount in such a manner that the internal nozzle pressure does not exceed the saturated water vapor pressure of water at each internal nozzle pressure set temperature, in a relational expression relating to a flow rate of water vapor sprayed from the nozzle, and given by Expression 1 or Expression 2, as prescribed in the present invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2010
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Applicants: Incorporated Administrative Agency National Agriculture and Food Research Organization, Umeda Jimusho Ltd., Taiyo Seisakusho Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Itaru Sotome, Seiichiro Isobe, Yukio Ogasawara, Yositaka Nadachi
  • Patent number: 8236240
    Abstract: The invention provides a method and system for conducting a continuous operation, flowing vapor phase decontamination in either an open loop or a closed loop. Using the method, a multi-component liquid decontaminant is vaporized and delivered into, through and out of a sealable enclosure by means of a carrier gas that is flowing into, through and out of said sealable enclosure. After leaving the enclosure, the vapor is captured in a cold-water bath and decomposed. The invention humidifies the carrier gas by passing it through a temperature controlled water bath to warm, or to cool, the carrier gas as necessary in order to bring the carrier gas to the desired temperature and humidity before it is combined with the vaporized sterilant and allowed to flow into the sealable enclosure. The concentration of the vapor sterilant and the percent saturation of the vapor sterilant are simultaneously controlled by controlling the rate at which the carrier gas flows and the rate at which the liquid sterilant is vaporized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Inventors: James Arthur Childers, Robert Warren Childers
  • Patent number: 8230824
    Abstract: A steam ejection device including a steam generator for generating steam by heating water; a steam eject port for discharging the steam generated in the steam generator; and a steam-guiding portion for delivering the steam from the steam generator to the steam eject port, and the steam ejection device further including a steam-heating block for heating, right before the steam eject port, the steam guided via the steam-guiding portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Naomoto Corporation
    Inventor: Isoji Yao
  • Patent number: 8222572
    Abstract: A steam generator for food processor comprising a shell separated into a sink and a steam generating chamber, wherein the sink has an inlet for importing water from a water source, and the bottom of the sink has an outlet in communication with the steam generating chamber, wherein the generating chamber comprises a heater inside for heating the flowed-in water, as well as a steam outlet. The steam generator is separated from the cavity of the food processor and will not be polluted by the food, so that the generated steam remains pure, which ensures food safety and the taste, and the heating unit of the steam generating device does not connect with the cavity of the microwave oven, so the cavity will not be distorted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: Tsann Kuen (China) Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Huaili Zhang, Yunhua Chen, Chihming Wen
  • Patent number: 8195039
    Abstract: A method and system for delivering iodine gas is presented. The pure iodine gas flow can be at a controlled, known flow rate, and furthermore be held at a positive pressure in relation to a process chamber. In an exemplary embodiment, pure iodine gas is transported without the use of an inert carrier gas. This is facilitated in part by maintaining the iodine gas chamber at a higher pressure than the processing chamber. In one exemplary embodiment, an iodine vessel receives solid iodine supplied by an iodine fill source and is heated to produce pure iodine gas. In addition, a control system monitors and controls the operating conditions in the iodine vessel and maintains a positive pressure in the iodine vessel. The iodine delivery system may include a valve system configured to control the flow of iodine gas through the iodine delivery system and into a process chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Advanced Integration, Inc.
    Inventor: George Engle
  • Patent number: 8121464
    Abstract: An improved vapor generator and control system includes a vaporization chamber for generating superheated vapor from liquid therein and at least one input connectable to liquid supply and adjustable control for controlling input of liquid into the vaporization chamber whereby output of superheated vapor is controllable while the system is in operation. A method for fabricating vapor generators includes the steps of providing at least two separate parts of a vapor generator, fastening the parts together to form a vapor generator defining a vaporization chamber and providing a capability to connect input control for control of input of liquid to the vaporization chamber. A method for cleaning selected objects comprises the steps of generating superheated vapor and controlling output of superheated vapor terms of volume and/or pressure and/or direction by adjustably controlling in an ongoing manner volume, pressure, and velocity of the liquid being subjected to vaporization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Inventor: Max Friedheim
  • Patent number: 8121465
    Abstract: The aim of the invention is to improve a mobile flue gas generator and to simplify a method for testing a flue gas indicator. The invention is characterised in that a mobile flue gas generator for simulating a real flue gas is proposed, whereby the mobile flue gas generator comprises an electric heating device for generating the flue gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: No Climb Products Limited
    Inventor: Hubert Koch
  • Patent number: 7995905
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and system for producing steam in a heating unit, and a method of designing a heating unit for producing steam. The method relates to receiving a liquid including impurities at a predetermine flow rate within an entry port of a monotube in the heating unit, where the monotube has a lumen of a predetermined size. The received liquid is converted into a two phase flow including turbulent and laminar flow. At least the turbulent flow is passed through the lumen at a velocity sufficient to carry the impurities through an exit port of the monotube and produce steam. The velocity of the turbulent is responsive to at least the predetermined flow rate and predetermined size of the lumen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Alan Varacins, James Doherty, Atul Saksena
  • Patent number: 7989737
    Abstract: A heating cooking apparatus including a body, a steam container, a steam heater, and a heater covering portion. The body has a cooking compartment in which food is disposed. The steam container includes a chamber, a water supply portion to supply water into the chamber, and a steam discharge portion to discharge steam generated in the chamber into the cooking compartment. The steam heater has a chamber bottom forming portion that is coupled to a lower end of the steam container so as to cover a bottom of the chamber and adapted to heat water supplied into the chamber. The heater covering portion is configured to cover a rim of the steam heater. Covering the rim of the steam heater using the heater covering portion alleviates the risk of power leakage accidents caused when water at the outside of a steam generator comes into contact with the steam heater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ki Suk Jeon, Kobayashi Shozo, Seok Weon Hong, Jong Chull Shon, Hyang Ki Kim
  • Publication number: 20110116775
    Abstract: A multi-stage, superheated steam generator for crude oil recovery comprises a plurality of radially spaced-apart first stage electric heating tanks that peripherally surround an inner, second stage electric steam tank. The steam tanks are secured within casing by a slack accommodating mounting comprising a downwardly projecting stub received within a rigid, tubular expansion sockets secured beneath each steam tank. A plurality of serpentine, electric resistive heating elements abut each steam tank. The elements have loop portions proximate the bottoms of each steam tank and vertical portions abutting each tank periphery. First stage tanks output steam to a manifold system that outputs to the second stage heater.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2009
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Inventors: Jimmy L. Turner, Richard B. Graibus
  • Patent number: 7918109
    Abstract: A steam generator having a steam generation tube defining a chamber for receiving water and converting the water to steam, and a heating element wrapped around the tube and having a first portion emitting a greater thermal output than a second portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Robert J. Pinkowski, Alvaro Vallejo Noriega, Markus Beck, Karl Furderer, Floyd G. Jackson
  • Patent number: 7905119
    Abstract: A steam generator according to one embodiment of the invention includes a steam generation chamber for converting the water to steam, and a heating element thermally coupled with the steam generation chamber and having a first portion below an operational water level of the steam generation chamber and a second portion above the operational water level, with the first portion having a greater thermal output than the second portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Robert J. Pinkowski, Alvaro Vallejo Noriega, Markus Beck, Karl Furderer, Floyd G. Jackson
  • Patent number: 7899309
    Abstract: Apparatus for vaporizing liquid in a vaporization pathway having an actively controlled temperature are disclosed according to some aspects. The apparatus can comprise a first body having a cross sectional shape and dimensions substantially equal to the cross sectional shape and dimensions of a cavity in a second body, which allows the first body to be non-permanently inserted into the second body. The outer surface of the first body, the inner surface forming the cavity in the second body, or both can be modified to create a vaporization pathway between the first and second bodies when the surfaces mate and/or align. The liquid vaporizer can further comprise a vaporization pathway inlet for fluid comprising liquid, a vaporization pathway outlet for fluid comprising primarily vapor, and a heater in thermal communication with the first body, the second body, or both. The heater provides active control of the temperature of the vaporization pathway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Battelle Memorial Institute
    Inventors: Greg A. Whyatt, Michael R. Powell
  • Patent number: 7801424
    Abstract: A steam generator comprising a heating unit, a pump adapted to deliver a controllable flow of water from a water supply into the heating unit and an outlet for steam from the heating unit; the heating unit comprises a housing, a heating element disposed in the housing and a conduit for water and steam extending from the inlet to the outlet; the conduit includes a passageway extending in an elongate path in contact with or adjacent the heating element; wherein the housing comprises two portions releasably seamed together to provide a channel between the portions to receive the heating element and to provide the passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Technical (HK) Manufacturing Limited
    Inventor: Chun Ming Cheung
  • Patent number: 7764870
    Abstract: A support for a water heater is constructed of a plurality of component elements including four stacks of two elements each. The first base elements can be positioned to form an approximate cylinder with the second upper elements stackable thereupon. Diametrically opposite pairs of elements are secured in position by steel bands. An elongated trough fits between pairs of adjacent stacks of elements and has laterally extending flanges which engage and support the weight of the trough upon inwardly directed ledges on adjacent component elements. The trough is designed to fit extending laterally or transversely so that it can be extended to lie beneath the spigot on the water heater to facilitate draining, as needed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Inventor: Gregory A. Griffith
  • Publication number: 20100124410
    Abstract: A system for supplying water vapor in a process for treatment of a semiconductor wafer, comprising a treatment chamber having an interior for receiving at least one semiconductor wafer and a water vapor dispenser. The water vapor dispenser comprises i) a hot water source, ii) a water vapor separator, iii) a first conduit fluidly connecting the hot water source to the water vapor separator, iii) a fluid control valve in the first conduit controlling the flow of fluid between the hot water source and the water vapor separator, and iv) a second conduit fluidly connecting the water vapor separator to the treatment chamber for delivery of water vapor to the interior of the treatment chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2009
    Publication date: May 20, 2010
    Applicant: FSI INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventor: Arne Benson
  • Patent number: 7713473
    Abstract: A sterilizer employs a vaporizer having sloped surfaces over which flow liquid sterilant solution for vaporization. The arrangement promotes even distribution of the sterilant solution for more efficient vaporization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Jed Kendall, James P. Kohler, Szu-Min Lin
  • Publication number: 20100083845
    Abstract: A steam generator for cooking devices has a vessel and a heating device. Water to be evaporated is contained within a free volume of an inner chamber of the vessel, which forms a water-guiding region. This water is heated through a heating device at least up to boiling temperature, whereby steam is generated that flows along a steam-guiding region of the vessel. The heating device is a thick-film heating device applied to the surface area of the vessel on the water-guiding region. Both the water and the steam flowing past cool the heating device as the water level drops.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2009
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Inventors: Volker Block, Michael Riffel, Christian Seidler
  • Publication number: 20090212045
    Abstract: A steam generator for food processor comprising a shell separated into a sink and a steam generating chamber, wherein the sink has an inlet for importing water from a water source, and the bottom of the sink has an outlet in communication with the steam generating chamber, wherein the generating chamber comprises a heater inside for heating the flowed-in water, as well as a steam outlet. The steam generator is separated from the cavity of the food processor and will not be polluted by the food, so that the generated steam remains pure, which ensures food safety and the taste, and the heating unit of the steam generating device does not connect with the cavity of the microwave oven, so the cavity will not be distorted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2008
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Applicant: TSANN KUEN (CHINA) ENTERPRISE CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Huaili Zhang, Yunhua Chen, Chihming Wen
  • Patent number: 7577343
    Abstract: A steam generating device includes a flat casing and a heating device is received in the casing. The heating device includes flanges which are engaged with grooves in the casing so as to define a lower space and an upper space between the heating device and the inner periphery of the casing. A seal is clamped between the heating device and casing to prevent foreign objects entering the casing. The heating device includes a chamber which is in communication with a hole defined in the bottom of the casing. Water is introduced into the lower space and steamized by the heating device, the steam enters into the upper space via passages and enters into the camber and blasts out from the hole of the casing. The steam travels a long path in the casing and is heated sufficiently so as to increase the efficiency for generating the steam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Inventor: Li-Yuan Chiang
  • Publication number: 20090151400
    Abstract: A steam generator for a laundry machine is disclosed, in which the power supplied to a heater is cut off before a water level of water used to generate steam is lower than an end of the heater, thereby avoiding a risk of fire. The steam generator includes a case coupled with the main body of the laundry machine. A heater is provided inside the case. A temperature fuse is provided inside the case when a coupling portion couples the case with the main body of the temperature fuse is configured to be higher than the heater based on a horizontal line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2006
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Inventor: Seog Kyu Park
  • Publication number: 20090151427
    Abstract: A liquid gas vaporization and measurement system, and associated method, for efficiently vaporizing a continuous sample of liquid gas, such as liquid natural gas (LNG), and accurately determining the constituent components of the gas. A constant flow of liquid gas sampled from a mass storage device is maintained in a vaporizing device. Within the vaporizing device the liquid gas is flash vaporized within heated narrow tubing. The liquid gas is converted to vapor very quickly as it enters one or more independently operating vaporizer stages within the vaporizing device. The vapor gas is provided to a measuring instrument such as a chromatograph and the individual constituent components and the BTU value of the gas are determined to an accuracy of within +/?0.5 mole percent and 1 BTU, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2009
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Applicant: MUSTANG SAMPLING LLC
    Inventors: Kenneth O. Thompson, Walter F. Gerhold
  • Patent number: 7509034
    Abstract: A steam generating apparatus 20 including: a vaporizing container 1; a heater 2 for heating the vaporizing container 1; a feed pump 5 for feeding water from a reservoir tank 7 into the vaporizing container 1; a drain valve 6 for draining water out of the vaporizing container 1 through a drain pipe 8; a temperature detecting means 9 for detecting temperature of the vaporizing container 1; and a controller 10 for controlling the heater 2, the feed pump 5, the drain valve 6, and the like. After completion of steam generating operation, water remaining inside the vaporizing container 1 is drained after the temperature of the vaporizing container 1 has lowered to 60° C.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2009
    Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tetsuya Kadoma, Keisuke Hara
  • Patent number: 7476369
    Abstract: A steam on demand generator uses a stainless steel cup and cap arrangement and hollow cone spray nozzle. The nozzle directs a cone of water onto a wall of the cup. A heating device and a thermocouple are brazed to the cup, with the thermocouple positioned on a part of the wall to enhance control of the operation and steam generation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignee: SciCan Ltd.
    Inventors: Xiang-Dong Yin, Gabriel Neagoe, Dorin Cioraca, Andy Kwan-Leung Sun
  • Patent number: 7452424
    Abstract: A vaporizer for generating a process gas from a gas-liquid mixture fluid includes a container defining a process space of the vaporizer. A supply head having a plurality of spray holes to spray the fluid is disposed within the container. A heating passage is disposed below the spray holes within the container. The heating passage is configured to heat the fluid passing therethrough and thereby generate the process gas. A gas delivery passage is connected to the container to laterally deliver the process gas from below the heating passage. A mist receiver is provided at the container below the gas delivery passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Assignee: Tokyo Electron Limited
    Inventors: Tsuneyuki Okabe, Shigeyuki Okura