Responsive To Gas Leakage, Overflow, Abnormal Pressure Or Electrical Component Malfunction Patents (Class 431/16)
  • Patent number: 10151483
    Abstract: A method is provided for monitoring and controlling combustion in a burner of a fuel gas apparatus, having a sensor with an electrode able to be supplied by a voltage generator and connected to an electronic circuit for measuring the resultant potential. The method includes acquiring and processing data from experimental conditions and a second phase of evaluating the desired combustion characteristic, under an actual operating condition of the burner. A plurality of experimental combustion conditions for the burner are preselected, applying to the burner, in each condition, a power and a further significant parameter of the combustion characteristics, under each of the experimental conditions applying an electrical voltage signal to said electrode and carrying out a sampling of the response signal, calculating, based on the sequence of sampled values, the characteristic parameters of the waveform of the signal for each of the experimental conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2018
    Assignee: SIT S.P.A.
    Inventors: Maurizio Achille Abate, Loris Bertoli, Alessandro Franch, Giancarlo Pirovano
  • Patent number: 10145584
    Abstract: A method of determining presence of a flame in a furnace of a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. The method comprises determining, using a controller, whether a processor signal (G) is active, responsive to a determination that the processor signal (G) is active, determining, using the controller prior to assertion of a flame-test input control signal, an output state of a first comparator, responsive to a determination that the output state of the first comparator is high, determining, using the controller prior to assertion of the flame-test input control signal, an output state of a second comparator, and responsive to a determination that the output state of the second comparator is low, transmitting, using the controller, a notification that a flame is present.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2018
    Assignee: Lennox Industries Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Engler
  • Patent number: 9964334
    Abstract: A method of determining presence of a flame in a furnace of a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. The method comprises determining, using a controller, whether a processor signal (G) is active, responsive to a determination that the processor signal (G) is active, determining, using the controller prior to assertion of a flame-test input control signal, an output state of a first comparator, responsive to a determination that the output state of the first comparator is high, determining, using the controller prior to assertion of the flame-test input control signal, an output state of a second comparator, and responsive to a determination that the output state of the second comparator is low, transmitting, using the controller, a notification that a flame is present.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2018
    Assignee: Lennox Industries Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Engler
  • Patent number: 9803889
    Abstract: A method of determining presence of a flame in a furnace of a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. The method comprises determining, using a controller, whether a processor signal (G) is active, responsive to a determination that the processor signal (G) is active, determining, using the controller prior to assertion of a flame-test input control signal, an output state of a first comparator, responsive to a determination that the output state of the first comparator is high, determining, using the controller prior to assertion of the flame-test input control signal, an output state of a second comparator, and responsive to a determination that the output state of the second comparator is low, transmitting, using the controller, a notification that a flame is present.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2017
    Assignee: Lennox Industries Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Engler
  • Patent number: 9678483
    Abstract: A controller that controls both safety and application functions of connected equipment is disclosed. The controller allows a user to freely program application specific functions while preventing the application functions from affecting the safety functions of the controller. This may give the user more flexibility and leeway when programming the application specific programming functions, without having to worry about affecting the safe operation of the connected equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2017
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy J. Nordberg, Jim I. Bartels, Nathan Longen
  • Patent number: 9381856
    Abstract: Systems, devices and methods of using motion detectors and temperature sensors inside vehicles for activating alarms to protect vehicle occupants that include babies, children, infirm, elderly and pets. Headrest mounted motion detector(s) and a temperature sensor detect both motion and selected temperatures to remotely transmit alarm signals to the vehicle horn that can play an SOS alarm. The detectors and temperature sensor can sound alarms when unsafe cold and warm interior vehicle temperatures are reached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2016
    Assignee: All Distributors, LLC
    Inventors: Bettye Arnold, Mark Best
  • Patent number: 9381855
    Abstract: Systems, devices and methods of using motion detectors and temperature sensors inside vehicles for activating alarms to protect vehicle occupants that include babies, children, infirm, elderly and pets. Headrest mounted motion detector(s) and a temperature sensor detect both motion and selected temperatures to remotely transmit alarm signals to the vehicle horn that can play an SOS alarm. The detectors and temperature sensor can sound alarms when unsafe cold and warm interior vehicle temperatures are reached. Low battery indicators such as audible alarms, chirp sounds and lights can be used to indicate low battery power supplies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2016
    Assignee: All Distributors, LLC
    Inventors: Bettye Arnold, Mark Best
  • Patent number: 9384647
    Abstract: Systems, devices and methods of using sound detectors, motion detectors and temperature sensors inside vehicles for activating alarms to protect vehicle occupants that include babies, children, infirm, elderly and pets. Headrest mounted sound detector(s), motion detector(s) and temperature sensor are used wherein detected sound from the sound detector can activate the motion temperature sensor and motion detected to activate adjacent or remote alarms. when unsafe cold and warm interior vehicle temperatures are reached. Low battery indicators such as audible alarms, chirp sounds and lights can be used to indicate low battery power supplies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2016
    Assignee: All Distributors, LLC
    Inventors: Bettye Arnold, Mark Best
  • Patent number: 9381857
    Abstract: Systems, devices and methods of using motion detectors and heat sensors inside vehicles for activating alarms to protect vehicle occupants that include babies, children, infirm, elderly and pets. Headrest mounted motion detector(s) and heat sensor detect both motion and selected temperatures to remotely transmit alarm signals to the vehicle horn that can play an SOS sounding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2016
    Assignee: All Distributors, LLC
    Inventors: Bettye Arnold, Mark Best
  • Patent number: 8872658
    Abstract: A service method of gas appliances includes: Detecting the gas appliances at the client ends to generate detecting signals. Transmitting the detecting signals to a service end. Identifying which client end the detecting signals come from. Examining the detecting signals to find whether the gas appliance has an abnormal condition; and informing the client end when the abnormal condition is found. After all, the service end may monitor the gas appliances at the client end, and inform the client for repair when the gas appliance has detected an abnormal signal or has damaged parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Grand Mate Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chung-Chin Huang, Chin-Ying Huang, Hsin-Ming Huang, Hsing-Hsiung Huang
  • Patent number: 7176805
    Abstract: Upon detection of a flammable gas condition, an intelligent thermostat regulates operation of appliances that have sources of ignition which could be the source of or may ignite the flammable gas. This hazardous condition is detected by a flammable gas detector and is communicated to the intelligent thermostat by wired or wireless communications. The intelligent thermostat then communicates with these appliances either via wired or wireless communications. The intelligent thermostat may also provide a visual warning user interface screen to inform the occupant of the hazardous condition, and may signal smoke detectors in the dwelling to sound an audible flammable gas warning. Alternatively, the flammable gas detector may signal the smoke detectors in the dwelling to sound an audible flammable gas warning directly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Maple Chase Company
    Inventors: John Gilman Chapman, Jr., Nicholas Ashworth, Robert Burt, Timothy E. Wallaert
  • Patent number: 7112059
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for controlling the operation of a gas fired appliance having a gas valve circuit for enabling the flow of gas to the burner. The apparatus comprises a sensor capable of detecting the presence of flammable vapor, a switching means in series with the gas valve solenoid circuit for interrupting a thermocouple voltage to the gas valve solenoid to disable the flow of gas, and a fuse that normally conducts a current to the switching means to maintain the switching means in a conductive state for applying a thermocouple voltage to the gas valve solenoid. In response to the detection by the sensor of the presence of a predetermined level of flammable vapor concentration, a second switch supplies a higher current through the fuse. The higher current causes the fuse to blow and interrupt the current for maintaining the switching means in a conductive state, such that the switching means interrupts the thermocouple voltage applied to the gas valve solenoid to shut off the gas to the burner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.
    Inventor: Donald E. Donnelly
  • Patent number: 7083408
    Abstract: An apparatus comprising a switch, a fuse, and a sensor that is capable of detecting the presence of flammable vapors and responsively changing in resistance, wherein the sensor enables the switch to supply current to the fuse which opens to shut down an appliance burner. The fuse is connected in series with a control circuit that enables a gas valve to supply gas to the burner 65. The apparatus comprises a voltage divider circuit that includes the sensor, which upon exposure to flammable vapors, increases in resistance to provide a voltage input to the gate of a FET 100. The FET switches on and conducts a current that blows the fuse to interrupt the appliance burner control circuit and shut down burner operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Assignee: Emerson Electric Co
    Inventor: Donald E Donnelly
  • Patent number: 7039555
    Abstract: This invention relates to a recovery boiler as used by the pulp and paper industry burning black liquor, and, more particularly, to a method for rapid detection of tube failures and the location of the affect heat exchanger within the recovery boiler, without need for direct instrumentation, thereby preventing more serious equipment damage, preventing boiler explosion, preventing injury to operators and minimizing repair time on the affected heat exchanger. This method is applicable to Input/Loss methods of monitoring recovery boilers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Assignee: Exergetic Systems LLC
    Inventor: Fred D. Lang
  • Patent number: 6973819
    Abstract: Vapor sensing systems and methods are disclosed. An appliance such as a gas water heater, clothes dryer, and the like can be associated with a controller for controlling the appliance. A vapor sensor is also associated with the appliance, such that the vapor sensor comprises an active sensor and an error sensor, wherein the active sensor generates an active signal and the error sensor generates an error signal. An amplifier is also associated with the vapor sensor, such that the amplifier subtracts the error signal from the active signal to generate a compensated signal indicative of the presence of an ignitable vapor within a vicinity of the appliance and thereby instruct the controller to shut down the appliance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Robert M. Ruhland, Richard W. Gehman, Peter M. Anderson, Peter M. Calvagna
  • Patent number: 6920377
    Abstract: A self-sustaining control for a heating system, having conventional operational modes and pilot burner assembly, is disclosed. A controller directs operation in accordance with a need-based protocol and monitors the condition of a storage device, which provides system power during the stand-by or off mode under normal conditions. A thermo-electric device is in thermal communication with the pilot burner assembly and powers the system whenever the pilot is lit. Regardless of heat need, the controller directs operation in a pilot-on mode, in lieu of an off mode, whenever the storage device is compromised.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2005
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Brent Chian
  • Patent number: 6908300
    Abstract: An apparatus comprising a switch, a fuse, and a sensor that is capable of detecting the presence of flammable vapors and responsively changing in resistance, wherein the sensor enables the switch to supply current to the fuse which opens to shut down an appliance burner. The fuse is connected in series with a control circuit that enables a gas valve to supply gas to the burner. 65 The apparatus comprises a voltage divider circuit that includes the sensor, which upon exposure to flammable vapors, increases in resistance to provide a voltage input to the gate of a FET 100. The FET switches on and conducts a current that blows the fuse to interrupt the appliance burner control circuit and shut down burner operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Inventor: Donald E. Donnelly
  • Publication number: 20040265759
    Abstract: A process and a device for monitoring the imperviousness of a radiant tube fired by a gas burner is disclosed. From a burner control a burner signal is derived that may have at least the states BURNER OFF when the burner is switched off and BURNER ON when the burner is switched on. In addition, the exhaust gas flow of the burner is monitored and an exhaust gas signal is derived there from which may at least have the states EXHAUST GAS OFF when there is no sufficient volume flow of exhaust gas flowing out of the radiant tube, and EXHAUST GAS ON when there is a correctly flowing exhaust gas. The burner signal and the exhaust gas signal are linked with each other for outputting a failure signal in case the combination BURNER ON and EXHAUST GAS OFF results.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Wolfgang Harbeck, Juergen Noack, Rene Lohr
  • Patent number: 6745152
    Abstract: This invention relates to a fossil-fired thermal system such as a power plant or steam generator, and, more particularly, to a method for rapid detection of tube failures without direct instrumentation, thereby preventing serious damage to heat exchangers. This method is applicable to Input/Loss methods of monitoring fossil-fired thermal systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: Exergetic Systems LLC
    Inventor: Fred D Lang
  • Patent number: 6739865
    Abstract: A system and method for disabling an oil furnace based on a vacuum level measurement. The oil furnace includes a pump and a burning device. The pump is adapted to transfer oil from a storage device to the burning device. A measurement device adapted to measure a vacuum level between an output of the storage device and an input of the pump. A means for disabling power to the oil furnace is adapted to disable power to the oil furnace based on a first specified vacuum level measurement set point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Inventor: Jeffrey W. Jamison
  • Patent number: 6652266
    Abstract: A flame sensor for sensing the presence of a flame in a burner. The signal from the sensor is passed to an amplifier located adjacent to the sensor and amplified without having a sensor signal contaminated with common mode radiation. The selectively amplified signal between 15 and 80 Hz is processed by a microcontroller located remotely from the sensor and amplifier which microcontroller may terminate or continue burner operation. The integrity of the connection circuitry between the amplifier and the microcontroller is also monitored and burner shutdown occurs if there is a fault in such circuitry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Assignee: International Thermal Investments Ltd.
    Inventors: Cristian Murgu, Edgar C. Robinson
  • Patent number: 6651035
    Abstract: This invention relates to a fossil-fired thermal system such as a power plant or steam generator, and, more particularly, to a method for rapid detection of tube failures and their location with the steam generator, without need for direct instumentation, thereby preventing more serious damage and minimizing repair time on the effected heat exchanger. This method is applicable to Input/Loss methods of monitoring fossil-fired thermal systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Exergetic Systems LLC
    Inventor: Fred D Lang
  • Patent number: 6339379
    Abstract: A carbon monoxide detector for detecting the level of carbon monoxide in a furnace supply duct. The carbon monoxide detector includes a carbon monoxide detector that has a housing. The housing is coupled to an exterior surface of a furnace supply duct of a furnace. The carbon monoxide detector also has a probe assembly that extends outward from the housing into the furnace supply duct for detecting a level of carbon monoxide in the furnace supply duct. The carbon monoxide detector further has a control unit. The control unit is operationally coupled with a limiting switch of the furnace. The control unit provides a signal to the limiting switch upon detection of a carbon monoxide level above a pre-determined level whereby the limiting switch is activated to shut off the furnace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2002
    Inventors: Michael A. Argus, Joyce Argus
  • Patent number: 6164958
    Abstract: A safety system for a gas burning device, such as a gas range having a plurality of burner assemblies. The safety system generally comprises a gas supply valve, a gas flow sensor, a gas leak warning circuit, a no-flame warning circuit, a gas supply valve controller for receiving warning signals from the warning circuits and for closing said gas supply valve in response thereto and a fan controller for activating the fan. Other warning circuits include a timer warning circuit and a smoke detection warning circuit. A display panel shows which warning circuit has issued a warning signal. A microprocessor may perform many system functions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Inventors: Tai-Tung Huang, Po-Hao Huang
  • Patent number: 6045352
    Abstract: An automatic safety system for a fluid fuel air heating furnace. The safety system utilizes a double-sided carbon monoxide sensor for detecting unsafe levels of carbon monoxide interiorly and exteriorly of the furnace's heated air duct and a single-sided carbon monoxide sensor for detecting unsafe levels of carbon monoxide interiorly of the furnace's flue pipe. The sensors employ carbon monoxide detector chips which are electrically conductive in normal conditions, but become non-conductive when exposed to levels of carbon monoxide that are deemed unsafe for humans. The sensors are incorporated in an electrical circuit for energizing a solenoid valve which valve, when energized, opens to permit fuel flow to the furnace. Detection of unsafe levels of carbon monoxide will result in the sensors becoming non-conductive, thereby causing the solenoid valve to become de-energized and to close thereby preventing fuel flow to the furnace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Inventor: Leroy E. Nicholson
  • Patent number: 5896089
    Abstract: A dual carbon monoxide detection system is provided including a gas furnace having a heat exchanger with a supply air duct for delivering heated air and a return air duct for receiving air to be heated. The gas furnace further has a gas input line for receiving gas from a gas supply line for heating purposes. A first carbon monoxide detector is situated within the supply air duct for generating an activation signal upon the detection of more than a predetermined amount of carbon monoxide. Associated therewith is a second carbon monoxide detector situated within the return air duct for generating the activation signal upon the detection of more than a predetermined amount of carbon monoxide. A gas valve is coupled between the gas input line and the gas supply line. The gas valve is adapted to preclude the flow of gas through the gas input line only upon the receipt of power. Connected to the gas valve is a relay for delivering power thereto upon the receipt of the activation signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1999
    Inventor: Cleveland L. Bowles
  • Patent number: 5866802
    Abstract: A piping leakage detecting apparatus includes a high pressure gas supply source, a gas implement connected to the high pressure gas supply source via a pipeline, and a switching device mounted on the pipeline for selectively opening and closing the pipeline. A pressure detecting device is mounted between the gas implement and the switching device for detecting the gas pressure inside the pipeline. A leakage judging device is provided to judge that gas leaks when no gas is being used and when a pressure drop is detected based on an output from the pressure detecting device, while the pipeline is being opened and closed by the switching device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1999
    Assignees: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd., The High Pressure Gas Safety Institute of Japan
    Inventors: Kunio Kimata, Yasukiyo Ueda, Shinichi Nakane, Mitsuo Namba
  • Patent number: 5827950
    Abstract: A leak test system is disclosed for a double block and bleed valve arrangement, the system including a second vent valve disposed along the bleed line and a secondary gas supply line connected to the bleed line for introducing gas at a known pressure into the bleed line to test the valves and ensure that they are not leaking. A pressure transducer is positioned to monitor the pressure within the bleed line. The pressure transducer is in communication with a processor which generates an alarm if the pressure in the bleed line changes, thereby indicating a leak. A method for testing each valve in the arrangement is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1998
    Assignee: Woodbury Leak Advisor Co.
    Inventors: H. Allan Woodbury, James R. North
  • Patent number: 5793296
    Abstract: An apparatus for carbon monoxide detection and automatic shutoff of a heating system is provided which includes a single housing containing a thermostat, a carbon monoxide detector, and a control circuit serially connected to the heating system via the existing thermostat wiring connections. The control circuit includes a relay with a plurality of contacts which are opened and closed to automatically control the operation of the furnace based on the operation of the carbon monoxide detector. In another embodiment, an existing thermostat is retrofitted by mounting the existing thermostat on an adapter plate containing an integrated carbon monoxide detector and control circuit. Another embodiment of the invention includes a carbon monoxide detector, a transmitter serially connected to the carbon monoxide detector for transmitting a predetermined radio frequency, and a receiver serially connected to the existing combustion-type furnace system for receiving the predetermined radio frequency from the transmitter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Inventor: Mike Lewkowicz
  • Patent number: 5567143
    Abstract: Flue-draft-malfunction detector and shut-off control for oil burner furnaces automatically stops operation of the oil burner in event of flue draft malfunction and prevents further running operation of the oil burner until a meltable element in the control is replaced by an intact element. The control casing has a passageway with an inlet on its front end and at least one outlet. The control is mountable on a furnace with the inlet communicating with the furnace combustion chamber. The meltable element is removably positioned within the casing for exposure to the passageway. Two electrical conductors extend from opposite ends of the element and serve as leads connectable in circuit across two terminals of a primary oil burner control so the element completes a circuit between these terminals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1996
    Inventor: Patrick F. Servidio
  • Patent number: 5540273
    Abstract: This invention relates to a method and system for controlling a heating/air conditioning unit. More particularly, this invention relates to a control unit which detects the presence of one or more gases (e.g. CO, fuel, refrigerant or radon) produced by the heating/air conditioning unit and disables the heating/air conditioning unit if gases are present in undesired concentrations. In one embodiment of the present invention, the presence of multiple gases are detected and a separate indication for each gas is provided. An alternate embodiment of the present invention provides means for resetting the heating/air conditioning unit a selected number of times after the heating/air conditioning unit has been disabled due to the presence of a gas in undesired levels. An alternative embodiment of the present invention provides means for disabling the central heating/air conditioning unit based upon the activation of one or more smoke alarms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 30, 1996
    Assignee: Homer, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven A. Polk, Bruce E. Stuckman
  • Patent number: 5531214
    Abstract: A gas vent and burner monitoring system for monitoring a gas burner vent appliance. The system includes an alarm, a first sensor proximate the burner and a second sensor proximate the draft hood. Each sensor detects the occurrence of an event and the respective sensor activates the alarm when the event occurs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 2, 1996
    Inventor: Ricky L. Cheek
  • Patent number: 5503550
    Abstract: A gas-fired, simulated log fireplace insert incorporating an automatic flue damper for controlling the operational state of a chimney vent (open/closed) in response to gas combustion, an externally mounted carbon monoxide detector for terminating or inhibiting gas combustion in response to an unsafe level of detected carbon monoxide and a temperature actuated switch, disposed within the firebox area of the fireplace proximate the flue, for terminating gas combustion in response to excessive fireplace temperatures caused by a malfunctioning damper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1996
    Inventor: Thomas M. DePalma
  • Patent number: 5477913
    Abstract: This invention relates to a method and system for controlling a heating/air conditioning unit. More particularly, this invention relates to a control unit which detects the presence of one or more gases (e.g. CO, fuel, refrigerant or rador) produced by the heating/air conditioning unit and disables the heating/air conditioning unit if gases are present in undesired concentrations. In one embodiment of the present invention, the presence of multiple gases are detected and a separate indication for each gas is provided. An alternate embodiment of the present invention provides means for resetting the heating/air conditioning unit a selected number of times after the heating/air conditioning unit has been disabled due to the presence of a gas in undesired levels. An alternative embodiment of the present invention provides means for disabling the central heating/air conditioning unit based upon the activation of one or more smoke alarms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 26, 1995
    Assignee: Homer, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven A. Polk, Bruce E. Stuckman
  • Patent number: 5472336
    Abstract: A flame rectification type flame sensor circuit and method in which a generator injects periodic pulses of alternating voltage into a flame region, the voltage across the flame region being processed by a filter/amplifier which, in proper operation, produces a non-zero output signal only during the time a flame is present and a pulse of alternating voltage is being supplied by the generator. Final indication of a flame is produced only if a non-zero output signal occurs during the time a pulse of alternating voltage is being supplied, and not during the time between successive pulses of alternating voltage. Failure of an electrical component in the filter/amplifier is indicated if a non-zero output signal occurs during the time between successive pulses of alternating voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 5, 1995
    Assignee: Honeywell Inc.
    Inventors: John T. Adams, John E. Bohan, Jr., Richard W. Simons
  • Patent number: 5318437
    Abstract: From a fuel storage tank (13), a filter (1) is installed to prevent any obstruction, followed by a vacuum gauge (2) and a motor-driven pump (3) to deliver the fuel to the burner (12): immediately prior to said burner, there is a pressure relief valve (11). Said vacuum gauge (2) controls the suction of the motor-driven pump (3) and the level of dirt in the filter (1). A retention valve (4) is installed following said motor-driven pump (3), with a pressure gauge (5) and a pressurestat (6) fitted with two contacts, one for maximum and minimum or service contact, and the other for safety, to prevent fuel spillage in case of a pipe breakage, shutting off the motor-driven pump (3) to which the pressurestat (6) is connected by an electrical control (7). A safety valve opens if pressure is excessive and returns the fuel to the storage tank (13) while an expansion tank (8) keeps continuous pressure in the circuits even though the motor-driven pump (3) is operating intermittently.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 7, 1994
    Assignee: Investigacion Y Produccion, S.A.
    Inventor: Antonio S. Perez
  • Patent number: 5307620
    Abstract: A method of safely controlling a burning of a fuel gas in a combustor in response to the pressure change in a fuel gas sealed in a fuel gas passage between a fuel gas supply source and the combustor communicated with the fuel gas supply source, the method comprising the steps of sealing a fuel gas in the fuel gas passage before supply to the combustor prior to the start of the operation of the combustor, detecting a pressure change in the fuel gas sealed in the fuel gas passage, controlling the supply of the fuel gas to the combustor in response to a signal representing the detected pressure change, and interrupting start of operation of the combustor when a pressure change in the sealed fuel gas is detected prior to the start of the operation of the combustor. Abnormal burning such as an explosion due to fuel gas leakage is prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 3, 1994
    Assignee: Kawasaki Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Sumio Hamahira, Yoshikazu Maki
  • Patent number: 5280802
    Abstract: A first and second sensor and alarm member is mounted relative to a gas appliance, and more particularly to the diverter housing and adjacent a lower portion of the gas appliance for detection of spillage in the form of flue restriction relative to the first sensor or roll-out sensing relative to gas fumes backed up relative to the flame portion of the gas appliance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 25, 1994
    Inventor: Franklin J. Comuzie, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5239980
    Abstract: A forced air furnace control system for preventing the buildup of dangerous concentrations of CO gas within a building airspace. A CO sensor is mounted in the air exit plenum of the furnace and connected in a circuit which produces an output signal when the concentration of CO gas in the plenum reaches a predetermined unsafe level. A disable control signal is then triggered through the circuit for switching the furnace to its nonoperating mode. A latch circuit is provided for latching the furnace control in the nonoperating mode independent of the disable control signal. A reset circuit is provided to manually override operation of the latch circuit and re-enable the furnace control for switching to the operating mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1993
    Inventors: Fay E. J. Hilt, James W. E. Locke
  • Patent number: 5143050
    Abstract: A water heater comprising a combination chamber, a gas burner located in the combustion chamber, a gas inlet pipe communicating with the burner, a gas valve for opening and closing the inlet pipe, and a sensor which is in contact with the inlet pipe and which is operably conneted to the gas valve for closing the valve when the temperature of the pipe exceeds a predetermined temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1992
    Assignee: AOS Holding Company
    Inventor: Michael E. Spivey
  • Patent number: 4986468
    Abstract: A gas fired burner includes a pilot gas valve and a burner gas valve sequentially operated to light the burner. A monitor includes individual monitoring of the status of the valves and the burner as well as other components and systems associated with the burner and includes separate lamps for each components. A test circuit monitors the sequential ignition cycle and includes a timing circuit having a timing period somewhat longer than the selected ignition period. An indicator lamp is connected to the timing unit. A sensing device is connected to the pilot gas valve and to the burner gas valve and each establishes an output in response to activation of pilot gas valve and burner valve. The pilot valve signal turns on the timing unit and the burner valve signal turns off the timing unit such that the indicator lamp is actuated only if ignition of the burner is not established within said selected ignition period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 22, 1991
    Assignee: A.O. Smith Corporation
    Inventor: John J. Deisinger
  • Patent number: 4978821
    Abstract: A reverse flow prevention device for combustion apparatuses control operated by electrical power, and which is provided with a combustion gas discharge tube for discharging the combustion process by-product. The reverse flow device comprising a reverse flow gas collecting tube installed within the combustion gas discharge tube for collecting reverse flow gas. The reverse flow device also comprises a detection means, with a function of detecting a reverse flow gas and turning OFF the combustion apparatus when the pressure of the reverse flow gas acting on the detection means is above a certain level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 18, 1990
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Jin-Ki Shon
  • Patent number: 4915613
    Abstract: A method and apparatus monitor fuel pressure in a heating system where a controller controls actuation of fuel valves. A fuel pressure limit signal is provided to the controller for determining if the fuel pressure crosses predetermined thresholds. In order to avoid nuisance shut-downs, the fuel pressure limit signal is ignored by the controller for a predetermined time interval after the controller has actuated a fuel valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 10, 1990
    Assignee: Honeywell Inc.
    Inventors: William R. Landis, Paul A. Schimbke, Michael J. Seidel
  • Patent number: 4901678
    Abstract: A fan forces air through an air inlet channel to a mixing chamber where it is mixed with fuel, and the mixture is then fed to a burner. The combustion products of the burner provide heat to a heat exchanger which is connected to a discharge channel. The contamination of the system is measured, and the speed of the fan is increased upon an increase in the contamination. The heating system is automatically prevented from operating when the contamination exceeds a predetermined value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1990
    Assignee: Econosto N.V.
    Inventor: F. H. C. Nouwens
  • Patent number: 4902223
    Abstract: The wall (5) of a tube (2) for delivering pulverized fuel to the outlet (4) of an oxy-fuel burner (1) forms part of a chamber (6) which is pressurized or evacuated. The pressure in the chamber is continuously monitored. If the pressure in the chamber (6) changes in a way indicative that the wall (5) of the oxy-fuel burner (1) has failed the oxy-fuel burner (1) is automatically shut down.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1990
    Inventor: Philip J. Young
  • Patent number: 4872828
    Abstract: An integrated electronic control arrangement is disclosed in the illustrative environment of a gas-fired furnace. The control incororates a self-test feature which shuts down the furnace and displays a diagnostic fault code in the event of any one of a number of possible sensed faults. Self-testing occurs automatically before an attempt at ignition and during furnace operation. The self-test may also be initiated manually at any time the furnace is not operating. The control accepts digital information on daily temperature setback, weekend temperature setback and vacation setback in any one of several preset schedules and preset setback increments. The control has a multipurpose display for selectively showing component indicative failure codes, temperature setback schedules, time of day, and day of the week.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1987
    Date of Patent: October 10, 1989
    Assignee: Hamilton Standard Controls, Inc.
    Inventors: Eugene P. Mierzwinski, Michael T. Grunden, Stephen E. Youtz
  • Patent number: 4865538
    Abstract: A fail safe drive circuit for enabling the relay which in turn opens the valve for supplying gas to a burner is disclosed and includes a pair of field effect transistors both of which must be operating properly to enable the relay. One transistor receives an enabling input from a rectifier circuit and will be enabled only if the alternating input signal is of sufficient magnitude and repetition rate. The other transistor is turned on and off by the alternating input signal and the gas valve will be turned on only when each of the transistors is operating in its intended mode. The circuit thus discriminates against false enabling signals such as a direct current signal, line voltage signal, a non-repetitive alternating current signal, or other spurious signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1987
    Date of Patent: September 12, 1989
    Assignee: Hamilton Standard Controls, Inc.
    Inventors: Victor F. Scheele, Stephen E. Youtz
  • Patent number: 4832594
    Abstract: A fail safe control circuit for supplying gas to a burner is disclosed and includes a plurality of timers, two of which set upper and lower bounds on a window or acceptable time interval during which a third timer must issue a control signal for that signal to be valid. The timers are operated from at least two different sources of timing signals so that a failure of either source of timing signals as well as a malfunction of any one of the three timers will result in an invalid control signal and the control will lock out to preclude burner operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 23, 1989
    Assignee: Hamilton Standard Controls, Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen E. Youtz
  • Patent number: 4797776
    Abstract: A system to continually monitor the integrity of control and safety thermocouples within a furnace comprising a low furnace temperature reader connected in parallel with a high furnace temperature reader to a single safety thermocouple.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1989
    Assignee: Union Carbide Corporation
    Inventor: William J. Snyder
  • Patent number: 4788529
    Abstract: A multifunctional safety gas flow regulator controller, mainly composed of an electronic circuit, automatically starts an alarm and controls components that close the gas supply when the flame is accidentally extinguished or when the battery has an inadequate power supply. The controller is characterized by its multifunctional safety controller for proper disposal of gas tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1987
    Date of Patent: November 29, 1988
    Assignee: Pao Yin Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jiann-Yi Lin