With Thermostatic Control Means Patents (Class 392/498)
  • Patent number: 11331522
    Abstract: The invention relates to the field of firefighting equipment, in particular to thermal locks for sprinklers, and is intended for opening sprinklers and automatically initiating the fire extinguishing. The proposed invention is characterized in that in an explosive capsule for a thermal lock comprising a housing made of brittle material, which contains a sealed cavity filled with liquid and a state sensor comprising an electrical conductor partially arranged within the housing cavity; the electrical conductor arranged within the housing cavity is divided into two parts, wherein the ends of each part contact with the liquid, while the liquid used has electrically conductive properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2022
    Inventors: Leonid Timofeevich Tanklevskij, Alexander Valerevich Arakcheev, Jurgen Teschner, Bodo Muller
  • Patent number: 11236672
    Abstract: An oil thermal management system for a gas turbine engine includes a control system operable to selectively heat oil in the oil system with the heater system greater than a predetermined temperature prior to engine start. A method of starting a gas turbine engine includes sensing an oil temperature with respect to a predetermined oil temperature for engine start; and heating the oil to the predetermined oil temperature for engine start in response to the oil temperature being less than the predetermined oil temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2022
    Assignee: Raytheon Technologies Corporation
    Inventor: Gary D. Roberge
  • Patent number: 10542733
    Abstract: A flat heater includes a housing including an accommodating groove formed inside the housing; a circuit unit disposed within the housing to control the heater, wherein the circuit unit includes a circuit board and a first rectifier disposed on the circuit board; a heating module disposed in the accommodating groove and electrically connected to the circuit unit, wherein the heating module includes a plurality of heating pipes and a plurality of second rectifiers disposed in each of the heating pipes; an upper cover assembled to a top surface of the housing and comprising a long side and a short side, wherein a plurality of fluid-permeable holes are formed on the upper cover; and a suction member inserted into the through hole and attached to an object and thereby fixing the housing to the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2020
    Assignee: EIKO ELECTRIC PRODUCTS CORP.
    Inventor: Yu-Chin Wang
  • Patent number: 10527296
    Abstract: A controller assembly controls water flow through individual emitters of a heating/cooling system based on a temperature setpoint and room temperature indicator obtained from an associated thermostat. The controller assembly provides delta temperature room control using a high precision movement actuator fitted with two pipe temperature sensors to power modulate individual radiators, underfloor heating circuits or fan-coils to provide energy efficiency for individual room heating/cooling control. Based on the temperature difference between the room temperature and the setpoint the controller assembly controls water flow through the emitter by adjusting a valve to attain a target temperature delta between the inlet and outlet of the emitter. As the room temperature approaches the setpoint so that the temperature difference decreases, the power output of the emitter is modulated to achieve desirable performance characteristics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2020
    Assignee: Computime Ltd.
    Inventor: Philip John Smith
  • Patent number: 10259398
    Abstract: In accordance with the present invention there is provided a comestible holder or retention device or retainer for sensing, controlling and monitoring driver access to food or drink while operating a vehicle. Preferably, the retainer comprises either a cup holder or a tray which retains comestible containers or the comestible, itself, in a reasonably stable position. The present invention further includes means for indicating the status of the comestible retainer as well as the comestible, itself, to the driver or other personnel and/or device to minimize preoccupation and distraction from driving while trying to determine the status of the foodstuff. Thus, the present device is utilized in conjunction with vehicular disposed telematics and is in communication therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2019
    Inventor: Mouhamad A. Naboulsi
  • Patent number: 8983283
    Abstract: A control system for an electric water heater having an upper heating element and a lower heating element is disclosed. The control system includes a control module that controls operation of the electric water heater by selectively toggling the upper and lower heating elements between an ON state and an OFF state and a consumer interface module that allows a consumer to input a set point temperature and select an energy savings mode for the electric water heater. The control module regularly monitors hot water usage and adjusts the set point temperature by a predetermined setback amount until a capacity of the water heater matches consumer usage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventors: Richard Miu, Lawrence J. Brazis, Richard E. Welch
  • Patent number: 8934763
    Abstract: A water delivery system is provided, comprising at least one faucet device with a cold water faucet part and a hot water faucet part, a cold water line to the at least one faucet device, a tankless heater device for heating water, a hot water line having a first portion running from an outlet of the tankless heater device to the at least one faucet device and having a second portion running from the at least one faucet device to an inlet of the tankless heater device, and a circulatory pump arranged in the second portion of the hot water line, wherein the circulatory pump has a prefixed first performance level and a prefixed second performance level, wherein the first performance level causes a finite water flow in the hot water line which is below an operation threshold value of the tankless heater device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: Xylem IP Holdings LLC
    Inventor: Oliver Laing
  • Publication number: 20140321839
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a heating element controller 100 for a liquid heating system arranged to determine the duty cycle of a heating element 106 and modulate the timepoint of heating initiation by the heating element 106 in dependence upon an expected duration of completing the heating process and upon a required time at which the heating process is to be completed, wherein said expected duration is determined in dependence on said duty cycle. The invention extends to a heating element controller comprising means for computing a fouling parameter and means for controlling the operation of the heating element in dependence upon the fouling parameter. The invention extends to a system for heating liquids comprising at least one heating element associated with a liquid vessel, and preferably the heating element is moveable in the vessel, or alternatively the system for heating liquids may comprise a plurality of heating elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2012
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Inventor: Peter Michael Armstrong
  • Patent number: 8805597
    Abstract: An electrical appliance configured to receive power and a power consumption signal from an electrical power distribution system comprises an energy storage device and a controller. The energy storage device includes a heat storage medium and a heater. The heater is configured to heat the heat storage medium at a heating rate. The controller adjusts the heating rate based on the power consumption signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: Steffes Corporation
    Inventors: Paul J. Steffes, Thomas P. Steffes
  • Publication number: 20140153913
    Abstract: A solar photovoltaic water heating system is disclosed having a photovoltaic solar panel array, a storage tank containing water to be heated, a resistance heating element in the water to be heated. The water heating system matches the load resistance of the resistance heating element to the power that is available from the photovoltaic solar panel array in order to maximum energy transferred to the water in the storage tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2013
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: Energy Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Newman, Glen Newman
  • Publication number: 20140064716
    Abstract: An electric boiler control system, comprising: a series circuit, connected to a power supply source, said series circuit comprising: a heating element, dipped in a water of said boiler; a thermostat employing a first switch, adapted to open when a temperature of said water reaches a first level, and to close when said temperature falls under a second level, wherein said second level is less than said first level; a second switch, serially connected to said first switch; a mechanism for keeping said second switch closed while said series circuit is closed, and keeping said switch open, until closed by a user; a first button, for closing said second switch by a user; and a second button, for opening said second switch by a user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventor: KLOD COHEN
  • Patent number: 8536495
    Abstract: Direct current power gained by photovoltaic cells can be used for heating water in a boiler. Simple installation allows use for domestic or industrial purposes, with a minimal impact to building construction. At the time of lack of sunlight intensity, water heating is provided by gas, or other heating source, or by use of a heating coil supplied by alternating current for that heating. When sunlight intensity is high, the photovoltaic cells of the present invention can be used alone. However, the source of the direct current has to be properly dimensioned in dependence on the volume of the boiler. An output 1 kWh of the source of the direct current gained by photovoltaic cells can be used to heat water of a volume of 100 L.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Inventor: Daniel Lako
  • Publication number: 20130188940
    Abstract: An improvement in a water immersion thermostat having a longitudinal sleeve for being deeply substantially-immersed in water of a storage water heater, the improvement including a thermal fuse disposed within the longitudinal sleeve, for single-use cutting of electrical connection upon temperature of the water within the storage water heater exceeding a pre-adjusted temperature threshold, and serial wiring of the thermal fuse between the power supply and the heating element of the storage water heater, thereby permanently cutting the power supply from the heating element upon presence of extreme temperature deep in the storage water heater.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2012
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Inventors: Amnon Hacham-Yona, Eliahu Babi
  • Patent number: 8478118
    Abstract: Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a deicer system for heating water within a fluid receptacle to prevent ice from forming including a main body configured to be positioned within the fluid receptacle, a heating element adapted to heat the water, a temperature sensor adapted to detect a temperature, and a control unit in communication with the heating element and the temperature sensor. The heating element is supported by the main body. The temperature sensor is thermally connected to the heating element. The control unit is adapted to determine a temperature of the water based at least in part on the temperature detected by the temperature sensor. The control unit is adapted to control the heating element based at least in part on the determined temperature of the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Allied Precision Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas K. Reusche, Philip E. Chumbley, James R. McHugh
  • Patent number: 8470138
    Abstract: A distillation assembly that reduces malodors resulting from a process of recycling a solvent from a contaminated solvent solution that includes a distillation chamber defined by a top wall, a side wall and a bottom wall, a heating element disposed in the distillation chamber including an active portion and an inactive portion. The contaminated solvent solution disposed at a level within the distillation chamber such that the active portion always disposed below the level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Safety-Kleen Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Rudy Publ, David Kisela, Gary Myers
  • Patent number: 8258442
    Abstract: A control for an electric water heater detects a condition of a heating element when the heating element is not being energized. A switching module is operable to interrupt power to the heating element, which de-energizes the heating element. A detector module detects the condition of the heating element when the heating element is de-energized. The detector module senses current flowing through the heating element and generates a detection signal that is indicative of the current.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventors: William E. Miller, Lawrence J. Brazis
  • Patent number: 8208801
    Abstract: A container is provided for heating or otherwise processing the contents of the container. For example, the container may be a kettle or kettle for heating fluids therein. The container may receive a command, desired characteristic or desired range for processing the contents of the container. The container may further include at least one sensor such as a temperature sensor or pressure sensor for determining a corresponding characteristic of the contents of the container. Based on at least one determined characteristic and/or the input command, the container may heat or otherwise process the contents therein. The results and/or current status of the contents may further be provided through a display. Also, based on the current status of the contents, the container may further process/heat the contents or discontinue processing/heating of the contents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Inventor: Anthony Brown
  • Patent number: 8168924
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignee: Zhejiang Jiatai Electrical Appliance Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Qiang Yang, Hesheng Zheng, Yu Yan
  • Patent number: 8106337
    Abstract: A modular water heating assembly containing two heating elements (1, 2), each having a thermostat module (5, 6) inserted into a sensing tube (3, 4) and attached to the same threaded boss (7). The heating elements are therefor contained in a single assembly with the elements having a fixed temperature set point differential such that the elements are switched on or off to maintain a constant temperature and reduce energy consumption by minimizing temperature overshoot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventors: Raoul Steenekamp, Vadim Kozyrkov
  • Patent number: 8041199
    Abstract: Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a deicer system for heating water within a fluid receptacle to prevent ice from forming. The system may include a main body configured to be positioned within the fluid receptacle, a heating element adapted to heat the water, wherein the heating element is supported by the main body, and a concealing cover that is configured to hide the main body the said heating element from view. The concealing cover has a larger axial envelope than the main body and the heating element. The concealing cover may be shaped as a naturally existing object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Allied Precision Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas K. Reusche, Philip E. Chumbley
  • Patent number: 8041200
    Abstract: Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a deicing system configured to prevent ice from forming in a water containment vessel. The system includes a heating element configured to heat the water within the containment vessel, a first temperature sensor and a second temperature sensor. The first temperature sensor is electrically connected to the heating element through an electrical path and may be configured to monitor water temperature. The second temperature sensor is electrically connected to the heating element through the electrical path and may be configured to monitor heating element temperature. At least one of the temperature sensors may include a reset button.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Allied Precision Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas K. Reusche, Philip E. Chumbley
  • Publication number: 20110142430
    Abstract: Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a deicer system for heating water within a fluid receptacle to prevent ice from forming including a main body configured to be positioned within the fluid receptacle, a heating element adapted to heat the water, a temperature sensor adapted to detect a temperature, and a control unit in communication with the heating element and the temperature sensor. The heating element is supported by the main body. The temperature sensor is thermally connected to the heating element. The control unit is adapted to determine a temperature of the water based at least in part on the temperature detected by the temperature sensor. The control unit is adapted to control the heating element based at least in part on the determined temperature of the water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2011
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Inventors: Thomas K. Reusche, Philip E. Chumbley, James R. McHugh
  • Patent number: 7917019
    Abstract: Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a deicer system for heating water within a fluid receptacle to prevent ice from forming including a main body configured to be positioned within the fluid receptacle, a heating element adapted to heat the water, a temperature sensor adapted to detect a temperature, and a control unit in communication with the heating element and the temperature sensor. The heating element is supported by the main body. The temperature sensor is thermally connected to the heating element. The control unit is adapted to determine a temperature of the water based at least in part on the temperature detected by the temperature sensor. The control unit is adapted to control the heating element based at least in part on the determined temperature of the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Allied Precision Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas K. Reusche, Philip E. Chumbley, James R. McHugh
  • Patent number: 7712677
    Abstract: An improved heater and method of controlling the same is provided. The water heater has the combination of a tank for holding water, a heater for heating the water, a controller having logic to regulate the heater, and first and second sensors. Each of the sensors detects the water temperature at different areas within the water heater. The sensors also provide the controller with signals corresponding to the detected water temperature. In response to these signals, the controller regulates the heater when at least one of the signals of the first and second sensors satisfies at least one predetermined state condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Sybrandus B. V. Munsterhuis, Brent Chian, Timothy J. Nordberg
  • Patent number: 7706671
    Abstract: A container is provided for heating or otherwise processing the contents of the container. For example, the container may be a kettle or kettle for heating fluids therein. The container may receive a command, desired characteristic or desired range for processing the contents of the container. The container may further include at least one sensor such as a temperature sensor or pressure sensor for determining a corresponding characteristic of the contents of the container. Based on at least one determined characteristic and/or the input command, the container may heat or otherwise process the contents therein. The results and/or current status of the contents may further be provided through a display. Also, based on the current status of the contents, the container may further process/heat the contents or discontinue processing/heating of the contents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: B2M Asset Management, LLC
    Inventor: Anthony Brown
  • Patent number: 7680400
    Abstract: Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a deicer system for heating water within a fluid receptacle to prevent ice from forming, the system including a main body configured to be positioned within the fluid receptacle, a heating element adapted to heat the water, a temperature sensor adapted to detect a temperature of the water, a switch adapted to activate and deactivate the heating element, and a control unit in communication with the heating element, the temperature sensor, and the switch. The heating element is supported by the main body. The control unit is adapted to control the heating element using the switch based at least in part on a temperature detected by the temperature sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Allied Precision Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas K. Reusche, Philip E. Chumbley, James R. McHugh
  • Patent number: 7668445
    Abstract: A control for an electric water heater detects a condition of a heating element when the heating element is not being energized. A switching module is operable to interrupt power to the heating element, which de-energizes the heating element. A detector module detects the condition of the heating element when the heating element is de-energized. The detector module senses current flowing through the heating element and generates a detection signal that is indicative of the current.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventors: William E. Miller, Lawrence J. Brazis
  • Patent number: 7560672
    Abstract: A heating system for heating fluid media including a carrier unit, a heating unit arranged on the carrier unit and a heat transfer element arranged on the carrier unit and includes a material which is a good conductor of heat, which heat transfer element has a first mounting portion for mounting a first safety device which responds at a first response temperature and a second mounting portion for mounting a second safety device which responds at a second response temperature which is lower than the first response temperature, which heat transfer element has a first temperature pickup portion which is in direct heat-conducting contact with the heating unit and the first safety device. The heat transfer element has a second temperature pickup portion is spatially separate from the first temperature pickup portion and in heat-conducting contact with the medium to be heated and the second safety device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: Bleckmann GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Andreas Pleschinger, Gernot Teufl
  • Patent number: 7539402
    Abstract: An electrical household liquid-heating appliance includes a housing (10), electrical heating elements, a switch, a button (16) pivotable about an axis between an on position and an off position and having an actuation surface, and a switch actuation lever (28) movable between an operative position in which the switch is closed and an inoperative position in which the switch is open. The button (16) is biased into a so-called neutral intermediate position by a resilient member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignee: SEB S.A.
    Inventors: Guy Labelle, Jean-Pierre Binot
  • Publication number: 20090110379
    Abstract: A heater system is provided for a respiratory system having a PID feedback control in which the coefficients are adjusted, such as in a warm-up process, to correspond to a likely flow rate of gas through a chamber of heated water based on the difference between heat input and heat output in relation to a temperature set point without the need to directly monitor flow rate or humidity level. A steady-state adjustment of the coefficients based on the behavior of the measured temperature in relation to the set point is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2007
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Applicant: SMITHS MEDICAL ASD, INC.
    Inventors: Cary E. McGhin, Jerry F. Wasinger
  • Publication number: 20090080873
    Abstract: Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a deicing system configured to prevent ice from forming in a water containment vessel. The system includes a heating element configured to heat the water within the containment vessel, a first temperature sensor and a second temperature sensor. The first temperature sensor is electrically connected to the heating element through an electrical path and may be configured to monitor water temperature. The second temperature sensor is electrically connected to the heating element through the electrical path and may be configured to monitor heating element temperature. At least one of the temperature sensors may include a reset button.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2008
    Publication date: March 26, 2009
    Applicant: ALLIED PRECISION INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: Thomas K. Reusche, Philip E. Chumbley
  • Publication number: 20090047008
    Abstract: An immersion heater comprising temperature elevating components contained within a housing. The housing comprises a thermally conductive, electrically insulating epoxy on an upper portion thereof, and a highly thermally conductive epoxy on a lower portion thereof. The temperature elevating components comprise a heating element in communication with a heat regulating system comprising a thermostat, an electrically conductive bracket, and a thermal cut off fuse. The heating element comprises electrical resistant wire elements which are disposed in the lower portion of the housing and contained within a sheath. A temperature non-regulating portion of the thermostat, which is in communication with the electrically conductive bracket, is contained in the lower portion of the housing, and the temperature regulating component of the thermostat is contained in the upper portion of the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventor: James Straley
  • Patent number: 7373080
    Abstract: A storage-type water heater and method of operating the storage-type water heater. The water heater includes a water tank for storing water, at least one heating element to heat the stored water, a jacket surrounding at least a portion of the tank, and a control system for controlling the water heater. In one construction of the water heater, the water heater includes two heating elements, and the control system includes three temperature sensors and two moisture sensors. The control system can also include circuitry for detecting errors and change operation of the water based on a detected error.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: Apcom, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey R. Baxter
  • Patent number: 7355147
    Abstract: A floating ice removal device with a disk shaped upper cover, a disk shaped lower cover and a heat emitting cup. An electric circuit board is mounted on an inner bottom of the lower cover, and a helical heat emitting wire is mounted on the inner top surface of the upper cover in a contact mode, and the cup having a heat emitting source is mounted on the outer bottom surface of the lower cover. An electric power line is extended in from the bottom of the heat emitting cup to connect the circuit board to supply electric power, so that the helical heat emitting wire keeps the surface temperature of the upper cover above 5 degrees Celsius, so that the surface of the entire ice removal will not be covered by snow or ice, while the heat emitting cup can emit heat under the water for removing ice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Assignee: Eiko Electric Products Corp.
    Inventor: Yu-Chin Wang
  • Publication number: 20080080844
    Abstract: A control for an electric water heater detects a condition of a heating element when the heating element is not being energized. A switching module is operable to interrupt power to the heating element, which de-energizes the heating element. A detector module detects the condition of the heating element when the heating element is de-energized. The detector module senses current flowing through the heating element and generates a detection signal that is indicative of the current.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2006
    Publication date: April 3, 2008
    Inventors: William E. Miller, Lawrence J. Brazis
  • Publication number: 20080002955
    Abstract: A deicing system configured to heat water within a water receptacle includes a main body supporting a temperature sensor, a heating element, and a pump. The main body is positioned proximate a base of the water receptacle. The temperature sensor is configured to detect the temperature of the water. The heating element is configured to heat the water when a temperature of the water approaches a freezing point. The pump is configured to circulate the water within the water receptacle to prevent temperature gradients within the water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2007
    Publication date: January 3, 2008
    Inventors: Thomas K. Reusche, Philip E. Chumbley
  • Patent number: 7263283
    Abstract: An electronic thermostat (20) has a mechanical switch (22) and a solid-state switch (24). The electronic thermostat (20) is suitable for use in a liquid heating apparatus, such as a coffee maker or any other apparatus that dispenses heated beverages. In an illustrative embodiment, the electronic thermostat (20) has a controller (36) and a temperature sensor (34).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Assignee: Bunn-O-Matic Corporation
    Inventor: John T. Knepler
  • Patent number: 7257320
    Abstract: A control system for an electric water heater having an upper heating element and a lower heating element includes a control module that controls operation of the electric water heater by selectively toggling the upper and lower heating elements between an ON state and an OFF state. The control module maintains a stratification of water within the water heater including a first volume maintained at a set point temperature and a second volume held at a setback temperature, which is less than the set point temperature. The setback temperature is low enough to maintain the stratification yet high enough to allow the upper heating element to heat water from the second volume to the set point temperature prior to exiting the water heater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Assignee: Therm-O-Disc, Incorporated
    Inventor: Robert Hartge
  • Patent number: 7257321
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for heating liquids, comprising: a liquid container, at least one electrical heating element connected to the liquid container for heating liquid received in the liquid container, at least one boiling sensor connected to, the inner side of the liquid container for detecting a boiling temperature in a part of the liquid container located above the liquid, at least one overheating sensor thermally connected to the heating element, and an electrical circuit in which the heating element, the boiling sensor and the overheating sensor are received such that a power supply to the heating element can be interrupted by the boiling sensor and the overheating sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Assignee: Ferro Techniek Holding B.V.
    Inventor: Simon Kaastra
  • Patent number: 7221862
    Abstract: A water heater control for an electric water heater operates according to at least one fixed hardware and/or software temperature limit and a variable software temperature limit. The control monitors a temperature of water in a tank of the electric water heater to determine if the temperature exceeds the fixed hardware and/or software temperature limit. If the temperature exceeds the fixed temperature limit, the control turns off one or more heating elements of the electric water heater. The variable software temperature limit is indicative of a desired user temperature and an offset temperature. If the temperature exceeds the variable software temperature limit, the control turns off the one or more heating elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Assignee: Therm-O-Disc, Incorporated
    Inventors: William E. Miller, Richard Miu
  • Patent number: 7103272
    Abstract: A storage-type water heater and method of operating the storage-type water heater. The water heater includes a water tank for storing water, at least one heating element to heat the stored water, a jacket surrounding at least a portion of the tank, and a control system for controlling the water heater. In one construction of the water heater, the water heater includes two heating elements, and the control system includes three temperature sensors and two moisture sensors. The control system can also include circuitry for detecting errors and change operation of the water based on a detected error.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: Apcom, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey R. Baxter
  • Patent number: 7099572
    Abstract: A water heating system has a tank, a heating element, a temperature sensor, and a controller. The heating element is mounted on the tank, and the temperature sensor is mounted on the heating element. The controller is coupled to the temperature sensor and is configured to detect a dry fire condition associated with the heating element based on the temperature sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: Synapse, Inc.
    Inventor: Terry G. Phillips
  • Patent number: 7049554
    Abstract: An adjustable heater for aquaria, comprising a substantially tubular container (2) within which are housed an electrical heating element (3), a switch (6) comprising s fixed contacts (7, 8) and moving contacts (9, 10) and capable of electrically connecting the heating element (3) with an external source (R) of electrical power, a temperature sensor (12) with a bi-metal strip (13) capable of detecting the temperature of the liquid and interacting with the switch (6) to move it from a closed position to an open position when a predetermined temperature (T) is to reached. The moving contacts (9, 10) of the switch (6) are secured to a free end (13?) of the bi-metal strip (13) while the other end (13?) of the bi-metal strip (13) is electrically insulated. This yields the advantage that electrical current does not pass through the bi-metal strip (13) and therefore does not create a Joule effect within it which affects the sensitivity and proper behavior of the temperature Is sensor (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: Eden SRL
    Inventor: Samuele Lolato
  • Patent number: 7046923
    Abstract: An immersion heater device for aquariums and the like. The heater device has a casing which contains a heating element. The casing, at least in the region of a radiant zone of the heating element, includes a layered structure having at least one layer of metal material and one layer of plastic material. The layer of metal material is interposed between the heating element and the layer of plastic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Assignee: Contech Europe Holding S.A.
    Inventor: Sergio Magri
  • Patent number: 6936798
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for heating water in a domestic water heating system that comprises the steps of: (a) providing a water tank containing mw liters of water; (b) providing at least one temperature sensing unit in said water tank for sensing the temperature of the water in the tank: (c) providing a heating element in said water tank; (d) providing a control unit for activating said heating element, said control unit continuously receiving indication for the water temperature from said temperature sensing unit; (e) providing to said control unit a desired water temperature, and designating a time for using the water at said desired temperature; (f) knowing the current water temperature, the desired water temperature at said designated time, the power of the heating element, and the specific heat of the water, calculating by the control unit the heating period ?t needed for heating the water in the tank from the current temperature as measured by said temperature sensing unit, to the desired temp
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Inventor: Benjamin Moreno
  • Patent number: 6915069
    Abstract: A temperature sensor assembly and method for use in a water heater. The temperature sensor assembly includes a sensor disposed within a non-planar base that at least partially defines a volume, a collector coupled to the base, and a reflector coupled to the base such that the sensor and the reflector are not in thermal contact. The reflector comprises a highly reflective material such that heat from the tank of the water heater is focused on the sensor, thereby increasing the accuracy of the temperature readings of the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Inventor: Ken A. Bradenbaugh
  • Patent number: 6909842
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Assignee: DDA Énergie LTÉE
    Inventor: Denis Dufour
  • Publication number: 20040042772
    Abstract: A water heater heating control system including: a thermostat with an adjustable set-point temperature, wherein the set point of the thermostat is adjusted in response to the cold water supply temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2003
    Publication date: March 4, 2004
    Inventors: Geoffrey M. Whitford, Ljubomir Milutinovic
  • Patent number: 6658205
    Abstract: An apparatus for adjusting temperature variation value correction of an aquarium heating tube and particularly an apparatus that is capable of adjusting temperature variation correction of an aquarium heating tube according to use conditions of the aquarium includes an adjusting dock with a duct extending upwards to house a screw rod. The screw rod has an upper end to fasten to a squared rotary rod which is extended outside an upper lid to couple with a spline round hole formed on a rotary knob. The screw rod has a lower end mating a biased member to accurately adjust the interval of a first electric contact of a movable strip and a second electric contact of an electrode thereby to control electric connection or break. By pulling the rotary knob away from the rotary rod and turning to a correcting temperature variation value, the heated temperature may be coincided with the actual water temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Meiko Pet Corporation
    Inventor: Chiao-Ming Wang
  • Patent number: 6633727
    Abstract: An integrated heater and controller assembly for monitoring and controlling the heating of a process in a reservoir is disclosed. The assembly includes a heater, a coupling adapter, a control unit, and a temperature sensor. The heater attaches to the reservoir and has a heating element extending into the process. The coupling adapter includes a first tubular portion and a second tubular portion. The first tubular portion attaches to the heater. The second tubular portion attaches to the control unit. The first tubular portion is rotatably attached to the second tubular portion. Wires from the control unit communicate through a pathway in the first and second tubular portions and connect to the heater. The control unit has control circuitry to control the power supplied through the wires to the heater. The heater may also have a thermowell that extends into the process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2003
    Assignee: Chromalox, Inc.
    Inventors: John Henrie, Myron L. Jensen, Steve U. Nestel, Randy C. Jarrett, Lorin T. Adkins