With Internally Positioned Heating Element Patents (Class 392/447)
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Patent number: 10926468Abstract: A convection system includes a housing, a chimney defined in the housing to pass fluid into and out of the housing, and a fan rotatably coupled to the housing to create a pressure differential within the housing to pass the fluid into the housing. The convection system also includes a heating element located in juxtaposition to the fan to heat the fluid passed into the housing via the chimney, and a thermal fuse located at an orifice of the chimney between the chimney and the heating element. In response to a failure of the fan, heated fluid from the heating element converts through the chimney past the thermal fuse. The convection of the heated fluid increases a rate of heat transfer to the thermal fuse.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2016Date of Patent: February 23, 2021Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.Inventor: William Winters
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Patent number: 9664413Abstract: A water heater with a housing having an internal chamber, an inlet port, and an outlet port; a heating element coupled to the housing; a water inlet line; a water outlet line; an inlet temperature sensor within the water inlet line; an outlet temperature sensor within the water outlet line; and a controller electrically connected to the inlet temperature sensor, the outlet temperature sensor, and the electrically power heating element. The controller is operable to detect a flow condition without using mechanical flow detection means and without supplying stand-by heating by adding an absolute value of the sensed change in temperature of water flowing upstream from the inlet port to the absolute value of the sensed change in temperature of the water flowing downstream from the outlet port to yield a sum and comparing the sum to a reference temperature.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2015Date of Patent: May 30, 2017Inventor: David E. Seitz
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Patent number: 9119232Abstract: An electrical heating device comprises a housing which encloses a circulation chamber through which a medium can flow, and into which heating ribs protrude. Each of the heating ribs has a U-shaped recess which open into a uniform connecting chamber, which is separated from the circulation chamber by a partition wall provided in the region of the open ends of the U-shaped recesses, and which accommodates at least one PTC heating element that abuts oppositely situated inner sides of the U-shaped recess in heat-conducting contact. A housing cover bears a pump and forms a pump channel. The pump channel opens into an inlet opening of the pump, which is formed by a pump housing.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2011Date of Patent: August 25, 2015Assignee: Eberspacher catem GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Maurice Clauss, Franz Bohlender, Michael Niederer
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Patent number: 9002185Abstract: Provided herein are systems and methods directed to using renewable energy sources with hot water heating systems.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2012Date of Patent: April 7, 2015Inventor: David Kreutzman
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Patent number: 8948580Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 10, 2012Date of Patent: February 3, 2015Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Eliel Fresco Rodriguez, Samuel Vincent Duplessis
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Patent number: 8909033Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 9, 2012Date of Patent: December 9, 2014Inventor: David Kreutzman
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Patent number: 8875495Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 6, 2010Date of Patent: November 4, 2014Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventor: James M. Perrin
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Patent number: 8879897Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: January 18, 2012Date of Patent: November 4, 2014Inventor: Joseph Ciliento
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Publication number: 20140270738Abstract: An apparatus and method for warming and maintaining temperature of intravenous fluid, utilizing a heater contained in a cavity of the intravenous bag. The cavity can be configured by special manufacture or by modifying available intravenous bags. The modified intravenous bag may also have insulation material for retaining heat and thermal transfer material for efficiently transferring heat from the heating component to the intravenous fluid.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2013Publication date: September 18, 2014Inventor: Michael Dean Lynch
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Patent number: 8755681Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 26, 2013Date of Patent: June 17, 2014Assignee: Inergy Automotive Systems Research (S.A.)Inventors: Stephane Leonard, Joel Op De Beeck, Vincent Potier
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Patent number: 8674268Abstract: The heated water bucket includes a rubber bodied bucket with an integrated heating unit fitted to the bottom of the bucket. The heating unit covers the entire bottom of the bucket acting as a false “bottom” so that the heating unit does not appear as a foreign object within the bucket. The heating unit is held to the bottom of the bucket by a peripheral flange that extends radially around the inside of the bucket sidewall. The rubber construction of the bucket itself makes the invention more durable, but also improves the bucket's thermal insulation properties, making it more efficient than conventional heated plastic buckets.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2011Date of Patent: March 18, 2014Inventor: Benjamin T. Clark, Jr.
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Patent number: 8625978Abstract: Urea tank and base plate with an integrated heating element in which the heating element comprises at least one flexible part which is preferably a flexible heater comprising at least one resistive track affixed to one flexible film and/or placed between two flexible films.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2008Date of Patent: January 7, 2014Assignee: Inergy Automotive Systems Research (Societe Anonyme)Inventors: Vincent Potier, Stéphane Leonard, Joël Op De Beeck, François Dougnier, Nadia Walling, Larry Tipton, Volodia Naydenov
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Patent number: 8567644Abstract: A melted depilatory wax dispenser has a container with an opening that stores solid depilatory wax at room temperature. The container is opened, inverted and inserted into a vertically protruding heating element and the opening is placed upon and sealed to an adaptor ring. As the heating element heats the contents of the container, the wax melts and is dispensed through a mouth which leads to a piping system and a valve which in turn leads to a dispensing tube which allows the hot wax to be dispensed in a controlled and easy fashion.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2006Date of Patent: October 29, 2013Assignee: Ceras Especiales Martinez de San Vicente, S.A.Inventor: Luis Martinez de San Vicente Oliveras
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Patent number: 8541721Abstract: An improved solid heat transfer element composed of an elongate member having a generally cylindrical surface with male vortex generating protrusions is provided. The vortex generating protrusions, which may be referred to as “turbulators,” provide improved heat transfer by convection to a flow of air transverse to the elongate members without substantially increasing the pressure drop in the flow of air passing over the members. Advantageously, a plurality of the heat transfer elements, or of straight portions of a single serpentine heat transfer element, may be arranged in an aligned or staggered array of elements or straight portions. Many advantageous profile shapes of the element and vortex generators are provided, including aerodynamic profile shapes that are symmetrical with respect to a fluid flow to provide low drag and pressure drop. Heat in the element may be generated by means of electrical resistance or absorption of radiation.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2008Date of Patent: September 24, 2013Inventors: Daniel Moskal, Maurice J. Marongiu
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Patent number: 8459507Abstract: A heated beverage, such as hot chocolate milk is dispensed by providing a refrigerated insulated cabinet having a plurality of beverage storage bags therein for storing refrigerated chocolate milk. Compressed CO2 draws the milk through a pump and pushes it through a flat plate heat exchanger and out to a spigot. The CO2 regulates the flow rate of the milk being dispensed. A heat exchange fluid, e.g., glycol is heated by a heating element and circulated through the flat plate heat exchanger to heat the milk as it passes through the flat plate heat exchanger. A thermostat maintains the heat exchange fluid and heated beverage at a desired temperature.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2012Date of Patent: June 11, 2013Assignee: Gourmet Dispensing, Inc.Inventor: Vincent E. Cascio
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Patent number: 8380055Abstract: A replacement anode assembly for a hot water heater or storage tank includes an anode body formed from an anode material, a magnet mechanically coupled to a first end of the anode body, and a grounding wire electrically coupled to the anode body.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2010Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Inventor: James E. Bridegum
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Patent number: 8206656Abstract: A liquid dispenser includes an exterior surface and an interior surface. The interior surface encloses a volume that tapers outwardly in a downward direction so that any horizontal cross-section of the volume fits inside each horizontal cross-section below it from a full to an empty level of the dispenser. The interior surface also includes a projection oriented opposite the exterior surface and configured to limit a motion of solids within the dispenser. The structure so provided enables the solid, e.g., a frozen liquid, to slide to the heated, bottom portion of the dispenser as liquid is drawn from the dispenser thus providing faster melting.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2008Date of Patent: June 26, 2012Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventor: Michael Goebelbecker
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Patent number: 8168924Abstract: The invention provides an overheat protection control component for a liquid heating vessel which includes a control body (1); a single-integrated dual-actuation thermally sensitive bimetallic actuator (2) is provided on the upper face of the control body (1), wherein the single-integrated dual-actuation thermally sensitive bimetallic actuator (2) is two integrated and relatively independent actuating units which are formed on a piece of bimetallic strip, and the outer kick limb (3) of either said actuating unit will produce an actuating movement downwards when an overheat state occurs; two groups of switch contacts (6) are also provided on the control body (1), wherein either group of switch contacts (6) cooperate with the outer kick limb (3) of a corresponding actuating unit, and the outer kick limb (3), when producing a downward actuating movement, will open a corresponding group of switch contacts (6) and cut off the power supply of the heater for the liquid heating vessel.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2008Date of Patent: May 1, 2012Assignee: Zhejiang Jiatai Electrical Appliance Co., Ltd.Inventors: Qiang Yang, Hesheng Zheng, Yu Yan
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Patent number: 8068727Abstract: Methods and systems for evaluating the condition of a water tank having a powered anode protection system. The water heater includes a storage tank to hold water, a powered anode, and a control circuit. The control circuit includes a variable voltage supply, a voltage sensor, and a current sensor. The control circuit is configured to compare a measured parameter to a threshold. In some constructions, the threshold is indicative of a condition of the storage tank at which the powered anode is no longer able to protect the storage tank from corrosion. In other constructions, the threshold is predicative of a potential failure of the storage tank caused by corrosion. In some constructions, the control circuit is configured to estimate a time remaining until the predicted failure of the storage tank.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2008Date of Patent: November 29, 2011Assignee: AOS Holding CompanyInventors: Andrew William Phillips, Andrew Robert Caves, Thomas Gerard Van Sistine, Ray Oliver Knoeppel, John Matthew Schulz
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Patent number: 7933506Abstract: A heat reservoir for storing the energy necessary for powering heat engines, particularly steam engines, is disclosed. The heat reservoir converts electrical energy into thermal energy through the use of electrical resistance heating coils bathed in one or more high heat capacity metals. Loss of heat through thermal conduction is minimized through the use of an insulating jacket surrounding the reservoir. The stored heat can be quickly transferred to a working fluid, such as steam, by using both a heat storage metal and a heat exchanger metal that possess high thermal conductivity.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2008Date of Patent: April 26, 2011Inventor: James Allen Kodak
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Patent number: 7804047Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining a health status of a water heating device is disclosed. The water heating device may have a controller that incorporates logic to regulate the heater responsive to water temperatures detected at different areas within the water heating device by first and second sensors. Unfortunately, the first and second sensors may fail. To detect fault conditions or otherwise determine the heath status of the water heating device, a logic unit in the controller may perform a test on the first and/or second sensors so as to provide a test output. The logic unit may also determine whether the test output satisfies one or more predetermined thresholds. These predetermined thresholds may be indicative of a properly-functioning sensor. When the test output does not satisfy the at least one predetermined threshold, the logic unit may then set a fault condition indicative of improperly functioning sensors.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 2004Date of Patent: September 28, 2010Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Robert L. Zak, Douglas D. Bird, Brent Chian
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Patent number: 7798053Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a system for producing beverages or other food products which includes, generally and broadly, controllably dispensing water from the system for use in brewing. Water is introduced to a heated water reservoir heating and subsequent use in a process such as brewing. An active thermal expansion system is provided to accommodate water which expands from the reservoir as a result of the heating process. One form of thermal expansion system may include a controllable expansion device accommodates an accumulation of water which expands during the heating process and then returns the water to the flow of water during a brew cycle or drains the water from the system.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2006Date of Patent: September 21, 2010Assignee: Bunn-O-Matic CorporationInventors: Charles H. Clark, Suresh Radhakrishnan
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Patent number: 7726263Abstract: There is provided a water heating and storage system, including a heat-insulated main heated water storage tank for storing hot water. The storage tank consists of top, side and bottom walls, has an inlet for heated water entering the tank at a level below the normal level, and a cold water inlet. The system also includes a consumer hot water outlet, and an external water heater having a controlled electrical heating unit, an outlet port for heated water, connectable to the inlet of the tank, and a water inlet port.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2007Date of Patent: June 1, 2010Inventor: Shmuel Ben-Ishai
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Patent number: 7664379Abstract: A fan heater including a housing through which air is able to flow in a longitudinal direction, a blower to propel the air and at least one heating element mounted elastically in the housing by means of a fixing element. Moreover the heating element is a PTC element and the blower is mounted separately from the PTC element in the housing. An assembly is also disclosed, which includes a fan heater as aforesaid, wherein at least two adapter plates, each exhibiting at least one fastening element for fixing the fan heater to a location intended for it and devices for fixing optionally one of the adapter plates to a housing in the fan heater, are provided.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2005Date of Patent: February 16, 2010Assignee: STEGO-Holding GmbHInventor: Hartmut Eisenhauer
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Patent number: 7615724Abstract: An electrical water heater includes a housing, a filling opening delimited by a rim, heating elements, a pouring member, a lid, a tongue mobile between an extended position wherein it seals the pouring member and a pouring position wherein it is retracted, and a pouring control connected to the tongue through an actuating mechanism. The actuating mechanism includes a first mechanism arranged in the housing and having one end connected to the pouring control and one end mobile through a window of the rim, and a second mechanism arranged in the lid and having one end mobile through a window of the lid and one end connected to the tongue, the windows of the rim and of the lid being urged into mutual correspondence when the lid seals the opening, and the corresponding ends of the mechanisms being adapted to co-operate.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2005Date of Patent: November 10, 2009Assignee: SEB S.A.Inventors: Guy Labelle, Jean-Pierre Binot
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Patent number: 7574120Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure generally pertain to systems and methods for estimating and indicating temperature characteristics of temperature controlled liquids. A system in accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure has a tank filled at least partially with a liquid, such as water, and the system has a plurality of temperature sensors mounted on the tank. During operation, a controller compares temperatures sensed by these temperature sensors to a predefined temperature profile for the liquid within the tank in order to estimate the likely temperature characteristics of such liquid. The controller then reports these estimated temperature characteristics via a user interface. As an example, the controller may estimate and report the amount of liquid above a threshold temperature that can be drawn from the tank. Based on the reported temperature characteristics, a user may make decisions about whether or how to use liquid drawn from the tank.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2006Date of Patent: August 11, 2009Assignee: A. O. Smith CorporationInventors: Wade C. Patterson, Terry G. Phillips
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Patent number: 7468497Abstract: A heatable container suitable for material such as bitumen. The container includes a vessel for holding a flowable material having side wall zones, end wall zones and a base wall zone. The container also includes a heating system for transferring heat to at least the base wall zone as well as a zone disposed along a central longitudinal axis of the vessel. The heating system may also included at least two internal heating ducts for conveying a heat transfer medium, wherein the ducts are disposed substantially parallel relative to the central longitudinal axis of the vessel, and are vertically and horizontally spaced apart relative to one another.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2006Date of Patent: December 23, 2008Assignee: Cont-Asphalt Ltd.Inventor: Jacques Grisoni
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Publication number: 20080029504Abstract: An electrical water heater includes a housing, a filling opening delimited by a rim, heating elements, a pouring member, a lid, a tongue mobile between an extended position wherein it seals the pouring member and a pouring position wherein it is retracted, and a pouring control connected to the tongue through an actuating mechanism. The actuating mechanism includes a first mechanism arranged in the housing and having one end connected to the pouring control and one end mobile through a window of the rim, and a second mechanism arranged in the lid and having one end mobile through a window of the lid and one end connected to the tongue, the windows of the rim and of the lid being urged into mutual correspondence when the lid seals the opening, and the corresponding ends of the mechanisms being adapted to co-operate.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 29, 2005Publication date: February 7, 2008Inventors: Guy Labelle, Jean-Pierre Binot
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Patent number: 7313322Abstract: The invention describes an electrical heating facility for the heating of liquid, in particular of washing liquid of a window washing facility, in a motor vehicle, comprising a metallic housing (2) with a first end (3) for immersion in the liquid to be heated and a second end (4) with an electrical connection terminal (5); at least one heating element (11) that is arranged in the housing (2); and at least one metallic heat conducting element (20) for conducting heat away from the housing (2). The invention provides the heat conducting element (2) as a stamped-out heat conducting plate comprising a slit that is used to slide it onto the housing (2). Moreover, the invention describes a liquid container with a heating facility, in which a heat contact surface of the heat conducting element (20) of the heating facility (1) rests against an intake fitting (31) that protrudes into the container.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2005Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Inventors: Roland Starck, Franz Flick
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Patent number: 7305178Abstract: A resistance heater 10 for a liquid system, in particular a fuel system of a diesel engine, in which a heating element 13 is connected to at least two contact rods 12a, 12b. Terminals are provided on the contact rods 12a, 12b so that they can receive an electric voltage. In addition, a sensor 24 is provided with which at least one parameter in the liquid system can be detected, and the sensor 24 is connected accordingly to at least one analyzer unit 18.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2005Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Mann & Hummel GmbHInventors: Thomas Haubold, Ralf Herrmann
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Patent number: 7283735Abstract: A windshield wiper solution dispenser located at vehicle servicing stations or fuel stations. The stations are usually located in geographic regions which are exposed to long periods of freezing temperatures. The solution dispenser is configured to maintain the solution within the dispenser in a liquid state during outside freezing temperatures. The dispenser has an interior region which contains the solution and also has a heater to keep the solution in a liquid state. A plurality of monitors or sensors are provided as well as temperature controlling mechanisms. In one embodiment the heater has a programmable logic device or controller to monitor the interior temperature and exterior temperatures as well as the solution liquid level and adjust the heater and the amount of solution contained in the dispenser as needed. The heater can be a coiled electrical resistance heater, an electrical liner heater, or a plurality of thermoelectric units which can be placed around the outside of the dispenser.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2005Date of Patent: October 16, 2007Inventors: Chris E. Pomeroy, Brent A. Caldwell
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Publication number: 20070212035Abstract: A steam generating apparatus is provided that includes a first water tank; a second water tank in fluid communication with the first water tank so that the water flows into the second water tank from the first water tank; and a heater heating the water inside the second water tank; wherein the first and second water tanks store water, wherein the heater heats only the water inside the second water tank so as to quickly generate steam.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 9, 2006Publication date: September 13, 2007Inventor: Jang-keun Oh
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Patent number: 7162149Abstract: The present invention relates to a gaseous fluid generation system, a columnar heating device, and a method for generating a gaseous fluid. In one embodiment, the gaseous fluid generation system includes a reservoir-less columnar vessel having a liquid fluid inlet and a gaseous fluid outlet and at least one resistive heating element contained within the columnar vessel. The columnar vessel is oriented such that the gaseous fluid outlet is elevated with respect to the liquid fluid inlet. In one embodiment, the gaseous fluid generation system includes at least one resistive heating element having a power density selected to heat a fluid selected from the group consisting of a liquid fluid, a saturated gaseous fluid and a superheated gaseous fluid. In one particular embodiment, resistive heating elements of the columnar vessel have a power density selected to heat both a liquid fluid and a gaseous fluid.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2004Date of Patent: January 9, 2007Inventor: Robert Evans
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Patent number: 7102101Abstract: A high voltage circuit breaker with a gas-insulated tank is provided. Enclosed with the tank is an elongated heater having at least one heating element enclosed in an outer tube. The heater is located coaxially within the tank and is surrounded by the insulating gas.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2005Date of Patent: September 5, 2006Assignee: Pennsylvania Breaker LLCInventors: David S. Johnson, Jeffry R. Meyer, Daniel C. Schiffbauer
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Patent number: 6909842Abstract: A fluid heater including a reservoir, an inlet-conduit assembly and an outlet conduit. The reservoir contains fluid and includes heating elements. The inlet-conduit assembly is mounted to the reservoir and has an inlet-aperture and is in communication with the reservoir at an opposite end. The outlet conduit is mounted to the reservoir and is in communication with the reservoir at one end and has an outlet-aperture at an opposite end. A fluid-flow detector assembly is mounted to one of the inlet-conduit assembly and outlet conduit. A heating element modulator is mounted to the inlet-conduit assembly. The heating element modulator is connected to the heating elements. A thermal sensor is mounted to at least one of the inlet-conduit assembly, reservoir and outlet conduit. A controller is connected to the heating element modulator, to the fluid-flow detector assembly and to the thermal sensor.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2002Date of Patent: June 21, 2005Assignee: DDA Énergie LTÉEInventor: Denis Dufour
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Publication number: 20040197093Abstract: A fluid heater including a reservoir, an inlet-conduit assembly and an outlet conduit. The reservoir contains fluid and includes heating elements. The inlet-conduit assembly is mounted to the reservoir and has an inlet-aperture and is in communication with the reservoir at an opposite end. The outlet conduit is mounted to the reservoir and is in communication with the reservoir at one end and has an outlet-aperture at an opposite end. A fluid-flow detector assembly is mounted to one of the inlet-conduit assembly and outlet conduit. A heating element modulator is mounted to the inlet-conduit assembly. The heating element modulator is connected to the heating elements. A thermal sensor is mounted to at least one of the inlet-conduit assembly, reservoir and outlet conduit. A controller is connected to the heating element modulator, to the fluid-flow detector assembly and to the thermal sensor.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 20, 2004Publication date: October 7, 2004Inventor: Denis Dufour
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Patent number: 6628894Abstract: A low-cost warm water heater for use in portable toilets, to provide unblended warm water for hand washing provides a small quantity of warm water at a predetermined temperature, the flow being sensibly at ambient pressure. The water system is supplied by hand or foot pump, or gravity feed, using a low power electric immersion heater, within a small, fabricated plastic casing that is of standard fittings, solvent welded to provide a substantially vandal-proof, child-proof heater. Provision of a cold water feed with vacuum break protects the heater against being siphoned dry. Snap-in hose connections simplify assembly and maintenance. While electrically protected by the plastic case construction, electrical ground-fault protection may also be utilized. A stand-alone embodiment incorporates a diaphragm foot pump to provide spurts of warm water.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2001Date of Patent: September 30, 2003Inventors: Ken S Winter, Roger S. Winter
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Publication number: 20030113107Abstract: A low-cost warm water heater for use in portable toilets, to provide unblended warm water for hand washing provides a small quantity of warm water at a predetermined temperature, the flow being sensibly at ambient pressure. The water system is supplied by hand or foot pump, or gravity feed, using a low power electric immersion heater, within a small, fabricated plastic casing that is of standard fittings, solvent welded to provide a substantially vandal-proof, child-proof heater. Provision of a cold water feed with vacuum break protects the heater against being siphoned dry. Snap-in hose connections simplify assembly and maintenance. While electrically protected by the plastic case construction, electrical ground-fault protection may also be utilized. A stand-alone embodiment incorporates a diaphragm foot pump to provide spurts of warm water.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 13, 2001Publication date: June 19, 2003Inventors: Ken S. Winter, Roger S. Winter
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Patent number: 6553948Abstract: In a water heater, an outer casing includes a hollow flue tube that extends vertically from an inner periphery of a bottom wall thereof, and an outer surrounding wall that extends uprightly from an outer periphery of the bottom wall and that cooperates with the flue tube to confine a receiving space. A heat-conducting unit is mounted inside the receiving space so as to configure the receiving space with isolated first and second chambers. The first chamber is filled with a thermal superconductor material. The second chamber is adapted for holding water therein. The heat-conducting unit includes a plurality of interconnected upright tubular members that cooperate with the outer casing to confine the first chamber therein. The second chamber is disposed externally of the tubular members. A heat-generating source is mounted below the outer casing for heating the water inside the second chamber.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2002Date of Patent: April 29, 2003Inventor: Chin-Kuang Luo
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Patent number: 6431124Abstract: A portable vacuum insulated bottle includes a heat source having a minimum volume and a heat pipe which acts as a heat transmitting device. With this construction, a portable vacuum insulated bottle is provided which makes hot water instantly. In particular, a portable vacuum insulated bottle is provide which makes hot water using liquid propane gas as a possible heat source.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2001Date of Patent: August 13, 2002Assignees: PNT Technology Inc.Inventor: Yun Sang Kwon
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Patent number: 6397786Abstract: An indirect damp generator is arranged atop water to generate moisture. The indirect damp generator mainly comprises a floating carrier, a vapor generator arranged atop the floating carrier and a heatproof article with capillary function below the vapor generator and assembled to the vapor generator. The heatproof article is inserted into water to guide the water upward to the vapor generator. The vapor generator evaporates tiny droplet from water with high efficiency and does heat water on bottom of container thereof.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2001Date of Patent: June 4, 2002Inventor: Chia-Hsiung Wu
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Patent number: 6349169Abstract: A vessel of substantially uniform curvilinear shape comprising at least one area of a different curvilinear shape that is adapted to closely conform to and engage a number of commonly contoured curvilinear segments on a housing member constructed and arranged to receive an outer covering panel in close fitting relation therewith is disclosed. In addition a method of manufacturing a vessel which comprises at least one area of a different curvilinear shape is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 1998Date of Patent: February 19, 2002Assignee: Water Heater Innovations, Inc.Inventors: Barry Neild Jackson, Gary W. Gauer, Ronald Iannelli
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Patent number: 6289177Abstract: A new encapsulated heating element fluid heater for heating a fluid such as water. The inventive device includes a vessel and an end cap. The end cap has a plurality of bores therethrough extending between the first and second ends of the end cap. A plurality of elongate heating element rods extend through the bores of the end cap and each heating element rod has a heating portion outwardly extending from the first end of the end cap and an electric coupling portion outwardly extending from the second end of the end cap. The first end of the end cap is inserted into an open end of the vessel such that the heating portions of the heating elements extend into the vessel. The end cap is then welded to the end of the vessel.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 1998Date of Patent: September 11, 2001Inventors: John W. Finger, Arden L. Larson
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Publication number: 20010009609Abstract: A water heater having a water tank and multiple electric resistance heating elements extending into the water tank for heating water in the tank. The water heater includes a proportional band temperature controller for conducting electric power to the electric resistance heating elements in bursts. Each burst of electric power is followed by a period during which the temperature controller does not conduct power to the electric resistance heating element. In one embodiment, each burst of electrical power lasts for about 95% or less of a cycle comprised of one burst of electric power followed by the period during which the temperature controller does not conduct electric power. Further, activation of the heating elements by the controller is carried out in a sequential or other timed or controlled fashion to permit uniform heating of the water in the tank.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 2, 2001Publication date: July 26, 2001Inventor: Kenneth A. Bradenbaugh
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Patent number: 6266485Abstract: A hot water dispensing system comprises a one-piece plastic tank having a main heating chamber, an expansion chamber, and an air collection chamber. The air collection chamber is disposed generally below the expansion chamber and alongside the main heating chamber. The main heating chamber is in fluid communication with the expansion chamber and the air collection chamber. The hot water dispensing system also includes a temperature control system having a heating element, a metal temperature sensing bracket, and a thermostat. The heating element is disposed within the plastic tank and connected to a metal temperature sensing bracket disposed outside the tank. The excellent conductive properties of a metal sheath that connects the metal temperature sensing bracket to the heating element allow the metal temperature sensing bracket to simulate changes in the temperature of water in the tank.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 1999Date of Patent: July 24, 2001Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.Inventors: Paul M. DeSantis, Terrence W. Snyder, Wayne C. Riley, Will J. Preischel, Dale L. Garrison, Henry A. Jones, Jr., Richard W. Fitzgerald
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Patent number: 6266484Abstract: A water heater made of plastic material comprises an external case (7) and a main body (2) including two semi-shells (2a,2b) soldered to create a body which can withstand temperature and pressure. The two semi-shells (2a, 2b), each of which is fitted with radial reinforcing elements (8) and the external case (7), are made of compatible and recyclable thermoplastic materials, in particular mixtures of polymers reinforced with glass fibers, preferably in a percentage equal to or higher than 30%.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2000Date of Patent: July 24, 2001Assignee: Merloni Termosanitari S.p.A.Inventor: Ruggero Marchetti
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Patent number: 6243535Abstract: The steam generator includes a cast aluminum hollow body in which is embedded a heating element, the ends of which are to be connected to a power source projecting from the body. A cover is sealed on a flange of the body, all the connections required for water inflow and outflow being arranged on the cover. The aluminum hollow body is cast over a receptacle disposed within the body.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 1999Date of Patent: June 5, 2001Assignee: Ecovap S.A.Inventor: Eric Bochud
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Patent number: 6178290Abstract: A water filter device has a collecting pot (1) with a spout (2) disposed at the front, with a handle (3) disposed at the rear in opposite relationship, and with an electrical heating element (5) arranged in the lower boiling region of the collecting pot (1), in this arrangement the collecting pot (1) is closable at the top by a lid (4) and provided in the interior is a filter insert (8) in which a filter cartridge (9) which can be filled with a purification agent is arranged so that untreated water can be poured into the filter insert (8) by way of the filter cartridge (9) and can pass due to the force of gravity to at least under the filter cartridge (9).Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 1999Date of Patent: January 23, 2001Assignee: Brita GmbHInventors: Detlev Weyrauch, Holger Henke
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Patent number: 6128438Abstract: Inflammable cleaning fluid heating apparatus are disclosed. The disclosed apparatus safely heat a cleaning fluid such as an inflammable solvent to a predetermined temperature. One of the disclosed inflammable cleaning fluid heating apparatus includes a main body for storing a heat transfer oil; a heater mounted inside the main body for heating the heat transfer oil; a cleaning fluid path mounted inside the main body having an inlet and an outlet; a temperature sensor for sensing a temperature of the heat transfer oil; and a controller for selectively switching the heater between anon state and an off state.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 1998Date of Patent: October 3, 2000Assignee: Il Woo Engineering Co., Ltd.Inventor: Song Il Kim
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Patent number: 6069996Abstract: The device for heating a drinkable liquid, having a liquid-storage container (9) and an electric heating element (11) arranged therein, the liquid-storage container (9) having a valve which is arranged at the bottom in the base (12) of the liquid-storage container (9) and of which one sealing surface is the border of an opening (14) in the base (12) and which opens, in a manner which cannot automatically be reversed, on account of the base curving outwards at a predetermined internal pressure in the container, and the power supply to the heating element (11) being designed such that it is interrupted when the pressure in the liquid-storage container (9) is essentially equal to the atmospheric pressure, which device can be positioned on a collecting container for the liquid, is distinguished in that the other sealing surface of the valve is a plate-like element (15) which consists of elastic material and, in its non-loaded state, is shaped essentially conically, with the cone tip directed towards the interiorType: GrantFiled: June 19, 1997Date of Patent: May 30, 2000Inventor: Eberhard Timm