Tank Or Container Type Liquid Heater Patents (Class 392/441)
  • Patent number: 11897819
    Abstract: The invention comprises a method of curing concrete. The method comprises placing a concrete cylinder in an insulated container having a sufficient quantity of water therein so that the concrete cylinder is submerged in and surrounded by the water and selectively adding heat to the quantity of water in an insulated container, so that the temperature of the quantity of water follows a predetermined temperature profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2024
    Inventor: Romeo Ilarian Ciuperca
  • Patent number: 11819815
    Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to a reactor for the production of low-carbon syngas from captured carbon dioxide and renewable hydrogen. The hydrogen is generated from water using an electrolyzer powered by renewable electricity or from any other method of low-carbon hydrogen production. The improved catalytic reactor is energy efficient and robust when operating at temperatures up to 1800° F. Carbon dioxide conversion efficiencies are greater than 75% with carbon monoxide selectivity of greater than 98%. The catalytic reactor is constructed of materials that are physically and chemically robust up to 1800° F. As a result, these materials are not reactive with the mixture of hydrogen and carbon dioxide or the carbon monoxide and steam products. The reactor materials do not have catalytic activity or modify the physical and chemical composition of the conversion catalyst.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2023
    Assignee: Infinium Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Dennis Schuetzle, Robert Schuetzle, Anja Rumplecker Galloway, Orion Hanbury, James Bucher, Ramer Rodriguez
  • Patent number: 11623881
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a heater for a vehicle system for injecting anaqueous solution in an air intake line upstream of a combustion chamber of aninternal combustion engine, or in the combustion chamber of the internal combustion engine, said heater comprising at least one flexible part which comprises at least one metallic resistive track embedded in an insulating material, said insulating material comprising at least one antimicrobial compound and/or being coated by at least one layer containing at least one antimicrobial compound. The invention relates also to a vehicle system for injecting an aqueous solution in an air intake line upstream of a combustion chamber of an internal combustion engine, or in the combustion chamber of the internal combustion engine comprising said heater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2023
    Assignee: PLASTIC OMNIUM ADVANCED INNOVATION AND RESEARCH
    Inventors: Laurent Duez, Arthur Relave-Noiray, Stephane Leonard, Pierre De Keyzer, Beatriz Monge-Bonini
  • Patent number: 11415341
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure provide systems and methods for determining temperature profile associated with a thermal storage tank of a hydronic system. The method performed by a control unit includes monitoring a flow rate and a temperature of a volume of hot water and a volume of cold water entering a thermal storage tank via a set of flowmeters and a set of temperature sensors, respectively. The method includes determining a current location of plurality of water layers in the thermal storage tank. The method further includes computing an average temperature value of the at least the hot water and the cold water withdrawn from the thermal storage tank. The method includes generating a temperature profile of the thermal storage tank based at least on the current location, the flow rate and the temperature of the hot water and the cold water, and the average temperature value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2022
    Inventors: Elisabeth Jane Melia, Evan Green, Pieter Noordam, Kelyn Wood
  • Patent number: 11248381
    Abstract: A rigging system comprising a plurality of members including: a first hexagonal support piece comprising six side members, a plurality of rod holes, a plurality of side holes, and a plurality of set screw holes, a first rod piece that has a diameter of size configured to fit closely within to the diameter of the rod holes, a first set screw that has a diameter of size configured to fit closely within the diameter of the set screw hole, a first connection bolt that that has a diameter of size configured to fit closely within the diameter of the side hole and the plurality of members having a plurality of configurations providing structural support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2022
    Assignee: FURIOUS PEOPLE
    Inventor: Hoyte van Hoytema
  • Patent number: 10948219
    Abstract: A method of operating a water heater receiving electrical power from an electrical grid. The method includes providing a water heater in a locked state. A digital key module may be communicatively coupled (for example, via wired or wireless communication) to the water heater and used to unlock the water heater placing the water heater into an unlocked state. Such unlocking of the water heater must only be done for such water heaters that are enrolled in a utility demand response program.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2021
    Assignee: A. O. Smith Corporation
    Inventors: Brian Thomas Branecky, William Gordon Hosken
  • Patent number: 10947657
    Abstract: A steam generating device for a washing machine and a washing machine are disclosed. The steam generating device includes a heating pipe connected to a heating control unit. A steam heating chamber is further arranged above the heating pipe. A cover plate component for facilitating escaping of steam and supplementation of cold water is arranged above the steam heating chamber. In the steam generating device, the steam heating chamber is arranged around the hot water pipe arranged on the bottom portion of a rear outer drum and the cover plate component is provided for engagement, such that continuous steam is generated in a washing process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2021
    Assignee: Qingdao Haier Drum Washing Machine Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Sheng Xu, Yanfen Lv, Zhiqiang Zhao
  • Patent number: 10753643
    Abstract: A heating device apparatus is provided, which includes: a first cavity, a heating member, a second cavity, a heat conducting member, a temperature detector and a controller. The heating member heats the fluid in the first cavity. The fluid inlet of the second cavity is in communication with the fluid outlet of the first cavity. The heat conducting member isolates the first cavity from the second cavity. The temperature detector detects the temperature of the fluid in the second cavity. The controller controls the heating of the heating member according to the temperature detected by the temperature detector. The fluid flows into the first cavity, is heated by the heating member, then flows into the second cavity, and performs heat exchange with the fluid in the first cavity through the heat conducting member when the fluid flows through the second cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2020
    Assignee: XIAMEN AXENT CORPORATION LIMITED
    Inventors: Yimin Fang, Jianru Hu, Jingquan Luo, Ruimei Tang
  • Patent number: 10728455
    Abstract: An imaging apparatus including an imaging element that images an object through an imaging optical system is provided that includes a driving unit configured to drive the imaging element in a direction orthogonal to the optical axis of the imaging optical system; a correction unit configured to correct image blur of an image captured by the imaging element by calculating a moving amount of the imaging element based on a shake detection signal from a shake detection unit and controlling the drive unit; and a control unit configured to perform control to change an opening amount of a field frame of a viewfinder used in observation the object. The control unit performs to reduce the field frame in a case where the image shake correction is performed so as to be smaller than the field frame in a case where the image shake correction is not performed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2020
    Assignee: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Toshifumi Urakami
  • Patent number: 10669056
    Abstract: A process for unloading a container containing an oxidizable compound having a melting point Tm greater than 15° C. is described. This process comprises the steps consisting in heating the container using a heating means until the oxidizable compound is liquid, the temperature of the heating means remaining less than or equal to Tm+105° C., and then unloading the oxidizable compound in the liquid state. A process for handling such an oxidizable compound, comprising this unloading step, and also a device enabling this process to be carried out, are also proposed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2020
    Assignee: Rhodia Operations
    Inventors: Lars Fischer, Jacques Cavezzan, Jean-François Thome
  • Patent number: 10618501
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a washer fluid distribution device (1) comprising a connectors support (9) comprising a base (31) equipped with a fixing device (18) configured to hold at least one hydraulic coupling (7, 8) at a location on the base (31), characterized in that a housing (35) accommodating a heating element (36) of the distribution device (1) is formed in the connector support (9), a wall portion delimiting the housing (35) being intended to be in contact with the at least one hydraulic coupling (7, 8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2020
    Assignee: Valeo Systèmes d'Essuyage
    Inventors: Gérald Caillot, Vincent Izabel, Jean-Michel Jarasson
  • Patent number: 10415851
    Abstract: A temperature control system for controlling a water heater to adjust the temperature of water in a water storage tank, the control system including a first temperature sensor coupled to the storage tank and configured to measure a first temperature of the water at a first location within the storage tank, a second temperature sensor coupled to the storage tank and configured to measure a second temperature of the water at a second location within the storage tank, and a controller coupled to the first and second temperature sensors and configured to turn ON the water heater when the measured first and second temperatures are below a first setpoint temperature, and to turn OFF the water heater when the measured first and second temperatures are at or above a second setpoint temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2019
    Inventors: Luther Jerry Watts, Timothy Dale Krause
  • Patent number: 9714595
    Abstract: The invention relates to a storage tank (12) of a metering system (10) for introducing a reducing agent (32) in an exhaust gas tract of an internal combustion engine. The storage tank (12) comprises at least one opening (50) for mounting components (20, 24) and openings (46, 48, 63) for filling and emptying as well as venting (62). All openings (46, 48, 50, 62) are arranged above a region of the storage tank (12) flooded by the reducing agent (32).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2017
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Michael Krause, Rainer Haeberer, Matthias Horn
  • Patent number: 9421569
    Abstract: A plating apparatus includes a substrate holding/rotating device that holds/rotates a substrate; and a plating liquid supplying device that supplies a plating liquid onto the substrate. The plating liquid supplying device includes a supply tank that stores the plating liquid; a discharge nozzle that discharges the plating liquid onto the substrate; and a plating liquid supplying line through which the plating liquid of the supply tank is supplied into the discharge nozzle. Further, a first heating device is provided at either one of the supply tank and the plating liquid supplying line of the plating liquid supplying device, and heats the plating liquid to a first temperature. Furthermore, a second heating device is provided at the plating liquid supplying line between the first heating device and the discharge nozzle, and heats the plating liquid to a second temperature equal to or higher than the first temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2016
    Assignee: TOKYO ELECTRON LIMITED
    Inventors: Takashi Tanaka, Yusuke Saito, Mitsuaki Iwashita, Takayuki Toshima
  • Patent number: 9265400
    Abstract: A method for monitoring tank water replacement of a kitchenware washing assembly generally includes automatically determining whether a counted number of wash cycles is equal to or exceeds a preset value. The method also includes automatically controlling one or more operations of the kitchenware washer assembly where the counted number of wash cycles is equal to or exceeds the preset value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2016
    Assignee: DUKE MANUFACTURING CO.
    Inventor: James W. Bigott
  • Publication number: 20150131977
    Abstract: A system is disclosed that allows a user to set a temperature of a water heater by remote control where the water heater controls temperature based on waster use as measured by a water flow meter. The temperature can be an override temperature that is applied temporarily. The temperature can also be a profile that changes water temperature based on use such as dishwashing and clothes washing. The profile can also changed based on season of the year such as when children are in school and on summer vacation or there is a holiday period such as thanksgiving.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2013
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Inventor: James Randall Beckers
  • Publication number: 20150125138
    Abstract: This disclosure is a system for heating a sample, e.g. a biological material, in a vessel. The system can include a heating device configured to transmit energy to the vessel and a base moveably coupled to the heating device. The system can also include a processor configured to receive an input associated with a target temperature, and transmit a signal to controllably move the heating device relative to the base for a time period, wherein the time period is determined based on the target temperature and content volume.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2015
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Applicant: Pluristem Ltd.
    Inventors: Ohad Karnieli, Tal Slonim, Lior Raviv, Nufar Gross
  • Publication number: 20150117845
    Abstract: A structure of hybrid heating equipment according to the present invention is disclosed. The present invention combines a multiple of the thermal sources for heating the interior materials of the container simultaneously, and assures the materials could gain the thermal energy uniformity. Furthermore, the present invention allows users to control the level of the heating simply through adjusting the length of interior heating elements or the flow rate of the incoming gas. In addition, the present invention connect with the tubes of the hot exhaust gas to further lower the influence of the thermal resistance by coordinating the flow of the hot exhaust gas, therefore fully reflect the advantages of the conserving energy and reducing the carbon emissions by reusing the waste heat as the principal source while the electric heating devices as supplement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2013
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Applicant: ATOMIC ENERGY COUNCIL-INSTITUTE OF NUCLEAR ENERGY RESEARCH
    Inventors: YAU-PIN CHYOU, YI-SHUN CHEN, SHU-CHE LI, PO-CHUANG CHEN
  • Patent number: 9002185
    Abstract: Provided herein are systems and methods directed to using renewable energy sources with hot water heating systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Inventor: David Kreutzman
  • Publication number: 20150075141
    Abstract: A container for a tank for storing a liquid additive includes a housing having a heater and at least one drivable apparatus for promoting convection in the housing. A motor vehicle includes a tank for storing a liquid additive and an exhaust gas system having a metering or adding device for the liquid additive. A container is inserted into the tank wall and a plurality of functional components is provided in the container for conveying the liquid additive from the tank through the container to the metering or adding device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2014
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Inventors: ROLF BRUECK, JAN HODGSON, SVEN SCHEPERS
  • Patent number: 8977116
    Abstract: An assembly for measuring the water level of a food industry machine has a water tank holding water to be heated, a load cell installed underneath the water tank so that a weight of the water tank holding the water impinges on a strain gauge of the load cell, a controller for receiving an electric signal from the load cell proportionate to a weight of the water tank plus the water in the water tank and converting the weight to a water level of the water tank based on a pre-determined formula and a display structure for continuously displaying a water level of the water in the water tank. The water level measurement device stays dry and free of scale deposits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Inventor: Guy Gonen
  • Publication number: 20150063793
    Abstract: A system includes a cold water supply, a water heater, a mixing valve, and one or more water use fixtures. The water heater includes a tank, a first temperature sensor configured to output a first temperature signal indicative of a water temperature of water in the tank, a heating device, and a water heater controller configured to control the water heater based on the first temperature signal and an operating temperature setting. The mixing valve outputs a mixed water flow, which is a combination of a hot water flow and a cold water flow, to the water use fixtures. A second temperature sensor outputs a second temperature signal indicative of a water flow temperature of the mixed water flow or the hot water flow, and a system controller selectively deactivates the water heater based on the second temperature signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2013
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Inventors: Austin P. Zeller, Thomas P. Steffes
  • Patent number: 8948580
    Abstract: An apparatus includes an inner rim, a base wall, a side wall and an outer rim. The inner rim has a first opening formed therein. The base wall extends outward from an inner edge of the inner rim and is integral with the inner rim. The side wall extends outward from an outer edge of the inner rim and is integral with the inner rim. The outer rim has a second opening formed therein and an inner edge integral with the side wall. The inner rim, base wall, side wall and outer rim are formed to prevent liquid seepage to one or more surrounding components of an appliance in which the apparatus is installed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Eliel Fresco Rodriguez, Samuel Vincent Duplessis
  • Publication number: 20150010295
    Abstract: The present invention relates to devices including a heating element with an opening, which can control condensation of liquid samples during thermal incubation. The opening of the heating element can provide direct access to the samples in a process that may be automated. The invention also provides methods for heating containers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2013
    Publication date: January 8, 2015
    Inventor: Adam Suchocki
  • Publication number: 20140363146
    Abstract: A screw-in heat exchanger which is adapted to a dedicated heating element receptacle, commonly found on domestic electric hot water heater tanks, which allows a tank's water to be heated or cooled while circulating a hot or cold heat transfer fluid through the heat exchanger.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2014
    Publication date: December 11, 2014
    Inventor: JOHN JOSEPH COMPTON
  • Patent number: 8909033
    Abstract: A method is provided for interconnecting a single electrical heating element of a hot water heater to first and second AC electrical power sources. Typically, these first and second AC electrical power sources include a utility provided electrical power source and a renewable power source that generates AC power from DC power. The method includes operating a controller that selectively connects and disconnects the first and second power sources. If sufficient electrical power is available from the renewable power source, the utility provided electrical power source may be disconnected to preferentially utilize renewable energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Inventor: David Kreutzman
  • Publication number: 20140348493
    Abstract: Provided herein are systems and methods (i.e., utilities) that allow for the use of non-grid tied renewable energy systems (e.g., PV arrays and/or wind turbines) without requiring battery banks. In various aspects, these utilities permit the efficient use of renewable energy systems to generate electrical power as well as the ability to dynamically direct where such electrical power is applied.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2014
    Publication date: November 27, 2014
    Inventor: David Kreutzman
  • Patent number: 8897632
    Abstract: Methods of managing electrical power storage can include remotely controlling operation of one of at least two water heating units included in a single water heater, separately from one another, at a customer location in response to a determination that an imbalance exists in a distribution of electricity to a power grid coupled to the single water heater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Inventor: Daniel P. Flohr
  • Patent number: 8887672
    Abstract: An appliance includes a water heater storage tank, a heating assembly configured to heat water within the water heater storage tank, and a heat exchange device disposed within the heat storage unit in a fixed relationship relative to a position of the heating assembly. The heat exchange device includes a hollow object and a phase change material within the hollow object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Brent Alden Junge, John (Jack) Joseph Roetker, Joseph Anthony Tobbe, Blake Philip Bomar
  • Publication number: 20140328581
    Abstract: A heater and a heating method for a wet extraction tank, said heater comprising a heating tube comprising a spiral glass tube with an air inlet and an air outlet; the air inlet is connected to a steam supply apparatus via a steam tube, and the air outlet is in communication with an apparatus containing micro-steam or hot water; the steam tube has with a pressure regulating valve for adjusting the steam pressure inside the heating tube; the glass tube is fixedly connected to the extraction tank by a wooden material fixed to the tank via a stainless steel bolt; the glass tube is fixed to the wooden material by wrapping and welding a heat and chemical resistant soft plastic sheeting. The heating method comprises maintaining the liquid inside the tank in a constant state of ebullition so that heat is evenly and uniformly distributed throughout the tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2012
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Inventors: Changqing Li, Jun Xu, Wuguo Zhang, Haibo Zhan
  • Patent number: 8875495
    Abstract: A tank assembly includes a tank defining a chamber that is configured to store a selectively variable volume of liquid. A positive temperature coefficient heater is disposed within the chamber. A source of electrical energy is in selective electrical communication with the heater and is configured to transfer electrical current to the heater. A controller is operatively connected to the heater and is configured to monitor the amount of electrical current to the heater. The controller is programmed to determine the volume of liquid in the chamber based on the amount of current transferred to the heater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: James M. Perrin
  • Patent number: 8879897
    Abstract: An apparatus and method to deliver hot water for mixing masonry materials is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a platform, bottom receptacles to provide for transport by a forklift, at least one holder for a fuel tank, at least two holders for tanks for water storage, at least one support for a heater, at least one water heater with a cover and a vent, and a grated floor area under the water heater support to allow for drainage of the water heater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Inventor: Joseph Ciliento
  • Publication number: 20140321838
    Abstract: Systems and methods for adjusting anode rod galvanic corrosion are provided. An exemplary water heater includes a tank for holding a volume of water. The water heater also includes an anode rod extending into the water and electrically connected to an electrical ground such that a galvanic current flows from the anode rod to the electrical ground. The water heater includes at least one heating element configured to heat the water when energized. The water heater also includes a resistor configuration connected between the anode rod and the electrical ground such that the galvanic current flows through the resistor configuration. The resistor configuration provides a variable resistance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2013
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Brett Alan Farris, Michelle Diana Gross
  • Patent number: 8870029
    Abstract: A heating and dispensing apparatus has a first portion defining a main, active reservoir for the molten material to be dispensed. A second portion has a heater and a seat for pre-heating a supply of replacement molten material. The main reservoir is pressurized, such that molten material therein is urged to flow out the outflow passageway when the valve is opened. The apparatus includes a heated receptacle support structure positioned to hold a disposable receptacle underneath the outflow. The outflow is mounted to the lid of the main reservoir, and can be cleaned when the lid is removed. The outflow outlet and the receptacle support structure are both located in exposed positions to facilitate cleaning. The pre-heat, main reservoir, outflow, and receptacle support structure are heated by a single heating system, by thermal conduction. The outside of the unit is kept substantially free of unnecessary obstructions to facilitate cleaning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Inventors: Mileta Stanojlovic, Dragica Stanojlovic
  • Patent number: 8866336
    Abstract: A line voltage device with an auxiliary power connection for a bathing installation. An exemplary embodiment of the device includes a housing structure, and a primary electrical power connection connected to the housing structure and including a primary wiring cable for connection to a line voltage source. A load system is disposed within or adjacent the housing and configured for powered operation by electrical power from the primary electrical power connection. An auxiliary power connection is provided for electrical connection to a separate bathing installation device to provide power to the separate device. A wiring circuit is disposed within or adjacent the housing structure and electrically couples the primary electrical power connection and the auxiliary power connection so that line voltage power is shared between the load system and the separate bathing installation device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Balboa Water Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Graham J. Campbell
  • Publication number: 20140308029
    Abstract: A process of treating hydrogen gas liberated from the acid or alkaline dissolution of a metal is provided. The process comprises a step of passing the liberated hydrogen gas through a reactor containing an oxidising agent for oxidation of the hydrogen gas into water, followed by a step of regenerating the oxidising agent. Also provided is an apparatus for carrying out the process, the apparatus comprising a reactor containing the oxidising agent, wherein the reactor is at least partially immersed in an alumina bath.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2014
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Inventor: Luis Barbosa
  • Patent number: 8855475
    Abstract: A radiant heating system comprising a substantially hollow housing having detachable baffle plates internally positioned within the housing. The housing has an inlet and outlet for a flow of coolant to enter into and leave the housing, and a top plate sealing the upper surface of the housing has openings defined therein for insertion of heating elements to project into the housing and be in direct contact with the coolant to heat it. The inlet and the outlet are interconnected with piping to form a closed fluid flow circuit. Two or more baffle plates are used to increase turbulence of the coolant within the housing as it flows through, and temporarily keep coolant in the housing longer to heat it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Dynacurrent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Ray King
  • Patent number: 8831413
    Abstract: A storage tank and method for monitoring thereof is provided. The tank includes a first panel that defines a mounting surface for carrying a heating element. The heating element extends into the tank for heating liquids stowed therein. A sidewall interconnects the first panel and a spaced-apart second panel. A support extends from a bottom-facing surface of the second panel for supporting the tank in a spaced-apart relation from a nearby surface. The support further defines an upward-facing pocket for receiving a portion of the heating element. A control system may monitor the storage tank and alert a service provider of operative conditions thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Envicor, LLC
    Inventors: Gary Steven Arnold, Stephen Butts
  • Patent number: 8822887
    Abstract: A heater assembly used in connection with a diesel emissions fluid tank in a vehicle, the heater assembly including a first heater connectable to an alternating current power supply; a second heater connectable to a direct current power supply within the vehicle; wherein the first heater is adapted to operate at a higher power than the second heater; wherein the first heater is closer to the tank than the second heater; a temperature sensor in sensing communication with the tank and adapted to provide a tank temperature; a control circuit connected to the second heater and the vehicle power supply, wherein the temperature sensor communicates the tank temperature to the control circuit, wherein the control circuit selectively activates the second heater to obtain a desired tank temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Shaw Arrow Development, LLC
    Inventor: John Ross Koonce
  • Patent number: 8791393
    Abstract: A heating control system for controlling heating of a fluid within an associated fluid vessel includes a first sensor responsive to a low fluid level in the fluid vessel and a second sensor responsive to a temperature of the fluid within the fluid vessel. The heating control system also includes a control circuit electrically connected with the first sensor and the second sensor to control electrical power to a heating unit for heating the fluid within the fluid vessel. The control circuit allows electrical power to be connected to the heating unit upon a first predetermined condition of the first sensor and a first predetermined condition of the second sensor. The control circuit disconnects power to the heating unit upon either a second predetermined condition of the first sensor or a second predetermined condition of the second sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Assignee: Oshkosh Corporation
    Inventors: Daniel John Worden, Karl James Bauer
  • Patent number: 8783581
    Abstract: A coolant heater having a coolant tank and a burner tube within the coolant tank is used for marine and motor coach installations. The burner tube is offset sidewise from the center line of the coolant tank to allow an exhaust manifold to be positioned within the coolant tank and beside the burner tube which allows a predictable coolant movement to more evenly distribute the heat throughout the coolant. An exhaust manifold is positioned within the coolant tank in the space obtained by the burner tube offset which allows an “up” or “down” exhaust duct configuration depending on the heater installation. An expansion tank connected to the coolant tank has a level switch located within the expansion tank and a pump is operably connected to the expansion tank and to the level switch. The pump terminates operation when the level switch indicates low coolant in the expansion tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: International Thermal Investments Ltd.
    Inventor: Edward Van Ruijven
  • Patent number: 8768153
    Abstract: A heatable liquid container made from plastic material, particularly for holding water/urea mixtures and having an internal cavity and a heating element arranged essentially in the internal cavity of the container, and with at least one connection end, the heating element is braced by a bracing element in at least one bearing area in the internal cavity of the liquid container. The heating element is supported in a horizontally floating manner by the bracing element. The bracing element is an insert part that is at least partially encased in the plastic material by sintering and is made from the same material as the inner wall of the liquid container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Elkamet Kunstsofftechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Volker Bier, Thomas Prinz
  • Patent number: 8761589
    Abstract: A water heating storage system and method for controlling a water heating storage system for energy storage is provided. A water heating storage system may be in communication with a power generation utility to control and maintain temperatures within a storage tank in order to maximize energy storage and minimize energy usage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: John Joseph Roetker, Jonathan Nelson
  • Publication number: 20140166125
    Abstract: A melter for a melt system includes a tank, a vibration generating device, and a heater. The tank has a wall for containing a hot melt adhesive, and the vibration generating device vibrates the wall. The heater transfers heat to the tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2012
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicant: GRACO MINNESOTA INC.
    Inventors: Michael J. Sebion, Nicholas D. Long, Shaun M. Cook, Mark W. Sheahan, Mark T. Weinberger, Mark J. Brudevold, Joseph E. Tix, John S. Lihwa, Douglas B. Farrow, Robert J. Lind, Paul R. Quam, Daniel P. Ross
  • Publication number: 20140169773
    Abstract: A method and system for operating a water heater appliance are provided. The method and system include initiating a vacation mode of the water heater appliance. An operating temperature of the water heater appliance is reduced from a normal operating temperature to a vacation operating temperature in the vacation mode of the water heater appliance. The method and system also include sanitizing the water heater appliance by raising the operating temperature of the water heater appliance from the vacation operating temperature to a sanitization operating temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2012
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Jeremy Michael Miller, Michael Thomas Beyerle, Thomas Charles Zimmer, Robert Marten Bultman, Myles Caley
  • Patent number: 8755681
    Abstract: A urea feed or return line (2) that comprises a hollow coupling (1) enabling it to be connected to a urea tank and that comprises a passage for the urea, this coupling being, in addition, equipped with a heating filament (9), at least one part of which extends freely inside the passage provided for the urea, this part having the shape of a loop or a spiral capable of also extending at least partly into the tank and/or into a tube attached thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Inergy Automotive Systems Research (S.A.)
    Inventors: Stephane Leonard, Joel Op De Beeck, Vincent Potier
  • Publication number: 20140161430
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for connecting to an auxiliary power source and operating a water heater. One exemplary aspect is directed to a water heater configured to heat a volume of water. The water heater can include a first heating system configured to operate at a first power and a second heating system configured to operate at a second power. The second power can be less than the first power. The water heater can further include a first AC connection configured to receive externally supplied AC power at a first voltage and a second AC connection configured to receive externally supplied AC power at a second voltage. The second voltage can be less than the first voltage. The water heater can use only the second heating system when the second AC connection receives the externally supplied AC power at the second voltage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2012
    Publication date: June 12, 2014
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: John Joseph Roetker, Brian Michael Schork
  • Publication number: 20140153912
    Abstract: The invention describes a tank comprising a water or solvent based solution, dispersion or emulsion. The tank comprises an electrical resistance heating element immersed in the solution, dispersion or emulsion. The electrical heating element is provided in the tank with an electrical current. The electrical resistance heating elements comprises a textile fabric and at least one electrical heating wire. The electrical heating wire is fixed onto the textile fabric and the electrical heating wire comprises metal filaments or metal fibers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2012
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Inventors: Steve Verstraeten, Filip Lanckmans, Inge Schildermans, Veerle Van Wassenhove, Lieven Tack
  • Publication number: 20140112647
    Abstract: A solar-powered photovoltaic thermal fluid heating system having an array of photovoltaic modules, an energy conversion control unit, sensors for tank temperature, with resistance heating element/tank flush water heater adaptor installed in a fluid-filled gas or electrically heated thermal storage tank. The advantages of the present invention include, without limitation, include an simple, safe, and efficient method for utilizing solar energy for the heating of water that is protected from the dangers of freezing and/or overheating, and easily retrofittable to new and existing gas and electric hot water storage tanks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2013
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Steven Lichtenberger
  • Publication number: 20140105584
    Abstract: Methods of managing electrical power storage can include remotely controlling operation of one of at least two water heating units included in a single water heater, separately from one another, at a customer location in response to a determination that an imbalance exists in a distribution of electricity to a power grid coupled to the single water heater.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventor: Daniel P. Flohr